Melanoma Monday is a reminder that skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States — and one of the most preventable. Prevention can be as simple as adjusting your daily skincare routine. Just one ounce of sunscreen is all it takes to protect your body from harmful UV rays and prevent skin cancer. The size of a shot glass. Or a liquid medicine cup.

However, recent studies show that fewer than 14% of Americans report wearing sunscreen every day. The gap between what we know and what we do is one we must urgently close.

Through initiatives like #WearSunscreen, the Personal Care Products Council, alongside healthcare partners, patient advocates, and industry leaders, is working to normalize daily sun protection and provide clear, science-based information consumers can trust. Unfortunately, misinformation about sun protection and sunscreen use continues to circulate on digital platforms. The U.S. public must understand the facts about sunscreen and their proven effectiveness in preventing sun damage when used as directed.

Myth: Skin cancer is a rare problem that only affects older or fair-skinned people.
Fact: One in five Americans will develop skin cancer by age 70.

Myth: Sunscreen isn’t necessary on rainy or cloudy days.
Fact: Up to 80% of UV rays can reach your skin on cloudy days.

Myth: A suntan is healthy and a natural way to get vitamin D.
Fact: Darkened skin is response to UV radiation, where increased melanin production puts stress on skin cells in an attempt to protect against damage. The damage is cumulative, starting with the first tan.

Myth: Sunscreen does not expire.
Fact: According to the FDA, all sunscreens should have an expiration date unless stability testing has shown that the product will remain stable for at least three years. Using sunscreen past its expiration date may result in reduced effectiveness.

Myth: People of color cannot get skin cancer.
Fact: Skin cancer accounts for 1-5% of all cancers in people of color, with varying rates across different groups: 1-2% in Black people, 2-4% in Asian people, and 4-5% in Hispanic people.

Sun safety is not seasonal or optional. Protect your health and #WearSunscreen.