As we head into the summer months, it’s helpful to understand what skin cancer is and which factors may increase your risk over time. Being aware of early signs and practising good sun protection can support long-term skin health.
Skin Cancer Types
Skin cancer develops when skin cells begin to grow and divide in an uncontrolled way. It is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers in Canada.
There are several types of skin cancer. The most common include:
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)
BCC arises in the basal cells of the skin. It often appears on areas that receive frequent sun exposure, such as the face, ears, neck, and hands.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)
SCC forms in the squamous cells located in the upper layers of the skin. It can develop on sun-exposed areas but may also appear in other locations.
Melanoma
Melanoma develops in melanocytes, the cells that produce pigment. Although less common than BCC and SCC, melanoma can be more likely to spread if not identified and treated early.
The Two Most Common Skin Cancer Types
Basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma are the most commonly diagnosed forms of skin cancer. They develop when skin cells begin to grow in an uncontrolled way, often over months or years.
These cancers are frequently found on areas that receive a lot of sun exposure, such as the face, scalp, neck, and arms. When identified and managed early, treatment is usually straightforward. Squamous cell carcinoma has a greater tendency than basal cell carcinoma to spread to nearby tissues, while basal cell carcinoma tends to grow more slowly but can still cause significant local damage if left untreated.
Repeated exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation (from the sun or from indoor tanning equipment) is a major contributing factor to the development of these skin cancers.
Melanoma and Its Risks
Melanoma is less common than basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, but it has a higher likelihood of spreading to other parts of the body if it is not identified and treated early. In Canada, melanoma affects several thousand people each year.
Melanoma can appear anywhere on the skin. In men, it is more often found on the chest and back, while in women it more commonly appears on the legs. It can also develop in less visible areas, such as the soles of the feet, under the nails, the genital region, or inside the eye.
Because melanoma can spread more readily than other common skin cancers, early recognition and timely treatment are important.
Risk Factors
Several factors can increase a person’s likelihood of developing skin cancer over their lifetime. People who spend a lot of time in the sun, especially without protection, or who have fair skin that burns easily, tend to be at higher risk. Repeated exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation—from sunlight or tanning beds—also plays a significant role. Certain types of scarring or long-standing skin damage may further contribute to risk in some cases.
Indoor tanning is a known risk factor for melanoma. Some studies have found that using a tanning bed before age 35 is associated with a higher risk of melanoma. Because of this, the World Health Organization has classified tanning devices that emit UV radiation as carcinogenic to humans.
There are practical steps people can take to help lower their risk of skin cancer. These include:
- Using broad-spectrum sunscreen regularly on exposed skin
- Wearing protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses when outdoors
- Limiting time in direct sun, especially during peak UV hours (roughly 10:00 am to 4:00 pm)
- Avoiding the use of tanning beds
While skin cancer remains common in Canada, understanding risk factors and practising consistent sun protection can help reduce overall risk. Our site will continue to share information on skin cancer risk, treatment options, and ways to support long-term skin health.