Yes, we’re blessed with that glorious melanin magic—our natural SPF that keeps our skin looking fresh and fabulous for years. But, as with all superpowers, it has its limits. So, while we might not burn as quickly as our lighter-skinned friends, we’re far from invincible when it comes to sun damage and skin cancer.

I’ve spent enough time under the blazing Greek sun to know it’s time we gave this topic the attention it deserves. Let’s crack on, shall we?

The Truth About Melanin: A Shield, Not an Armour

Melanin is a marvel. It offers protection from harmful UV rays, slows down visible aging, and leaves us glowing like we’ve bathed in liquid gold. But here’s the rub—melanin doesn’t make us immune to skin cancer. UV radiation can still wreak havoc on our skin, leading to sunburn, hyperpigmentation, and, yes, even skin cancer.

The problem? Many of us mistakenly believe that skin cancer is a “white person’s issue.” This myth leads to late diagnoses and worse outcomes. So, let’s stop playing hide-and-seek with the facts and tackle this head-on.

Why Is Skin Cancer So Dangerous in the Black Community?

Here’s a sobering truth: while skin cancer is less common in Black people, it’s often more aggressive and deadly when it does occur. This isn’t because of biology alone—it’s a mix of late detection, lack of awareness, and sometimes, healthcare professionals missing the signs on darker skin.

Take acral lentiginous melanoma (ALM), for example. It’s a rare type of skin cancer more common in people of colour. ALM doesn’t appear in typical sun-exposed areas but instead pops up on palms, soles, or even under nails. Think Bob Marley—his untimely death was caused by melanoma under his toenail.

The Signs You Should Never Ignore

Your skin is a canvas, and every mole, spot, or discolouration tells a story. But if something starts looking like it doesn’t belong—take notice.

• New moles or growths: Keep an eye out for anything unusual, especially if it’s uneven in shape or colour.
• Changes in existing spots: If a mole starts growing, itching, or bleeding, it’s time to see a professional.
• Dark lines under nails: A subtle but significant warning sign, particularly for ALM.

We need to know our own skin better than we know our morning coffee order.

Six Essential Steps to Protect Your Skin

Even with melanin’s gifts, we must take proactive steps to shield our skin from harm. Here’s how to stay sun-smart without sacrificing your glow:

1. Regular Skin Checks

Know your skin like the back of your hand—literally. If something looks or feels off, don’t self-diagnose. Get yourself to a dermatologist.

2. Sunscreen is Non-Negotiable

A broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher is your new best friend. For darker skin tones, choose one that blends seamlessly (no ashy cast, thank you). Reapply every two hours—more if you’re swimming or sweating like you’re running a marathon in Mykonos.

3. Cover Up in Style

Long sleeves, wide-brimmed hats, and lightweight but tightly woven fabrics are your summer saviours. Think less “sauna chic” and more “elegant shade queen.”

4. Seek Shade Like It’s Your Favourite Spot

Between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., the sun is throwing its strongest punches. Find a tree, umbrella, or even a chic canopy to stay protected.

5. Don’t Forget Your Eyes

Sunglasses that block UVA and UVB rays aren’t just for aesthetics. They shield the delicate skin around your eyes and keep you looking effortlessly fabulous.

6. Skip the Tanning Obsession

We don’t need a tan to glow, darling. Intentional sunbathing ups your UV exposure, damaging your skin and increasing your cancer risk. Embrace your natural beauty—it’s radiant enough.

Why Isn’t Skin Cancer Taken Seriously in Our Community?

The lack of awareness around skin cancer in the Black community boils down to a few key factors:

• Myths about immunity: Many believe darker skin doesn’t burn or isn’t susceptible to cancer, which leads to complacency.
• Healthcare disparities: Some healthcare providers aren’t trained to recognise skin cancer signs on non-white skin.
• Focus on other conditions: Diseases like diabetes and hypertension often take centre stage in discussions about Black health, sidelining skin cancer entirely.

But here’s the thing: education is empowerment. The more we know, the better we can protect ourselves and our loved ones.

Embrace the Sun—Safely

Let’s not shy away from the sun entirely. It’s a source of joy, warmth, and vitamin D, after all. But we must be intentional about how we interact with it. By combining vigilance with sun-safe practices, we can protect our melanin while keeping it glowing for years to come.

So, next time you’re heading out, grab that sunscreen, don your best hat, and strut confidently into the sunlight. Because being sun-smart isn’t just about health—it’s about honouring the gift of our beautiful, melanin-rich skin.

What steps do you take to protect your skin from the sun? Let’s keep the conversation going—share your tips below!