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5 Everyday Habits That Quietly Increase Your Risk of Skin Cancer
When it comes to protecting our skin, most of us think we’re doing a decent job. We lather on sunscreen at the beach, throw on a hat for a long hike, and maybe even check for new freckles now and then. But the truth is, skin cancer doesn’t just show up from one bad sunburn — it develops silently over time from the little things we forget to consider.
In honor of Skin Cancer Awareness Month, we’re highlighting five everyday habits that could be quietly increasing your risk of skin damage — and more importantly, how to fix them with easy, intentional choices.
1. Skipping Sunscreen on Cloudy Days
Overcast skies might fool you into thinking you’re safe from the sun, but up to 80% of UV rays still penetrate cloud cover. That means your skin is still being exposed — and still at risk — even on those gloomy mornings.
What to do instead:
Make sunscreen a daily ritual. Treat SPF the same way you do brushing your teeth — non-negotiable, rain or shine. Aloe Up’s lightweight, non-greasy formulas are perfect for everyday use, even under makeup or while on the go.
2. Only Applying SPF at the Beach or Pool
A day on the water makes sun protection feel obvious — but UV exposure doesn’t only happen on vacation. Driving, walking the dog, gardening, and sitting by a window all expose your skin to harmful rays.
What to do instead:
Use sunscreen as part of your everyday routine, especially on high-exposure zones like your face, neck, ears, and hands. Our Sport SPF 30 Lotion is designed for active, daily lifestyles and won’t clog pores or leave behind residue.
3. Missing “Hidden” Spots
Even when we remember to apply sunscreen, many of us miss the same high-risk areas over and over again—like the tops of the ears, back of the neck, scalp, eyelids, sides of the face, and even the tops of the feet and hands. These spots are frequently exposed to the sun but are easy to overlook, especially when we’re rushing out the door or relying on makeup for coverage. Unfortunately, these “forgotten zones” are also where skin cancer often shows up. The scalp, for example, is one of the most common places for melanoma to go unnoticed—especially in people with thinning or short hair.
What to do instead:
To stay fully protected, apply sunscreen methodically, starting from your face and working your way down, and use a mirror or a partner to check hard-to-see spots. Don’t forget: lip balm with SPF and sun-protective headwear are also key players in covering what sunscreen alone might miss.
4. Forgetting to Reapply
We get it — life gets busy. But SPF wears off with sweat, water, and even time. That "once and done" mindset leaves skin vulnerable, especially during long days outside.
What to do instead:
Reapply every 2 hours, or more frequently when sweating or swimming. Keep a travel-size lotion or spray in your bag, glovebox, or golf bag. Our SPF 30 Continuous Spray offers effortless reapplication without the mess.
5. Overlooking Reflection and Elevation Risks
Think you’re safe because you’re not directly in the sun? Think again. Surfaces like water, snow, concrete, and even sand can reflect UV rays, amplifying exposure. And if you’re skiing, biking, or hiking at high altitudes — UV intensity increases with elevation.
What to do instead:
Be mindful of your environment and plan ahead. Pack SPF lip balm, wear a brimmed hat, and apply sunscreen before heading out — even if it doesn’t feel “sunny.” Our Mineral SPF 50 Lotion provides powerful protection for high-risk activities in sensitive environments.
Final Thoughts
The reality is, skin cancer prevention isn’t about a single sunscreen application — it’s about consistency. Small habits, practiced daily, are your strongest defense. By making a few intentional changes and choosing quality, aloe-based sun care you can trust, you're taking the long game seriously — for your skin and your health.
Let this month be your reminder: skin protection is self-care. Every day, every season, every lifestyle.
Browse Aloe Up’s dermatologist-recommended sun care collection here.
