The primary risk factor for skin cancer is exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays, including sunlight and tanning beds, with the risk growing with the amount of exposure. The desert sun is especially harsh which puts us at a greater risk.

The following factors increase your skin cancer risk:

• Skin type: Understanding your skin type is an important factor regarding your risk of developing skin cancer including melanoma. Although people with fair skin tones are more at risk for sunburns, sun damage and skin cancer, UV exposure can raise skin cancer risk even if you tan and don’t burn.

• Sunburns: Having 5 or more sunburns doubles your risk of potentially deadly melanoma.

• Unprotected exposure to UVA & UVB Rays: Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet radiation (UV) is a major risk factor when it comes to skin cancer. You can still enjoy outdoor activities and still remain safe by understanding how to safeguard yourself against skin cancer.

• Atypical Moles: Although an atypical mole is not a skin cancer, having these moles is a risk factor for developing melanoma.

• Organ Transplant: After a life-saving transplant procedure, new risks can emerge, including an increased chance of developing a skin cancer.

• Indoor Tanning: You increase your risk of developing life-threatening melanoma by 75% from just one indoor tanning session before the age of 35.

• Red Hair

• Genetics