Sunscreen Now, Skin Cancer Later: The Long-Term Risk Most Canadians Ignore
You step into the summer sun, lather on some sunscreen, and feel good knowing you’re protected. But are you really?
Many Canadians assume that applying sunscreen here and there is enough. But skin cancer doesn’t happen overnight, and new research shows that long-term, inconsistent sunscreen habits could be setting you up for serious risks down the line. In fact, melanoma rates are still rising, especially in Canadians over 50.
This isn’t a story about sunburns. It’s about how underestimating sun protection now could lead to a life-threatening diagnosis later. Here’s what you need to know—and what most people get wrong.
Skin Cancer in Canada: The Long-Term Danger
Skin cancer is the most common cancer in Canada, and melanoma, the deadliest form, is still increasing.
According to the Canadian Cancer Society:
- Over 89,000 Canadians are diagnosed with skin cancer each year.
- Adults aged 50 and older accounted for over 80% of all skin cancer cases.
- 1 in 59 Canadian men and 1 in 73 Canadian women will be diagnosed with melanoma in their lifetime.
And it’s not just sunbathers in their 20s at risk. In fact, those aged 50 and older now account for the majority of new melanoma cases. The reason? Decades of inconsistent sun protection are catching up.
What many don’t realize is that skin damage from the sun builds up over time. One bad sunburn as a teen? It’s still affecting your skin at 60.
The Problem with How We Use Sunscreen
If sunscreen is so widely available, why are skin cancer rates still rising? Because most Canadians aren’t using it properly or consistently.
A national survey by the Melanoma Network of Canada found that:
- Only 32% of adults reapply sunscreen every 2 hours (as recommended)
- 42% of Canadians don’t use sunscreen daily, even in summer
- And 1 in 4 Canadians think sunscreen is unnecessary on cloudy days
This “casual use” mindset is dangerous. UV rays still damage your skin even on overcast days or through windows. And most people don’t apply enough: the average adult needs about a shot glass worth (30 mL) for full body coverage. Most use less than half of that.
Even worse? Many people skip it altogether once they’re past their “tanning years,” falsely thinking they’re no longer at risk.
The Hidden Risks You Might Be Ignoring
Beyond melanoma, chronic sun exposure also increases your risk of:
- Squamous cell carcinoma
- Basal cell carcinoma
- Premature skin aging and immune suppression
According to the Canadian Dermatology Association, up to 90% of visible skin aging is caused by sun exposure, not genetics. And while we often think of skin cancer as “treatable,” advanced melanoma has a 5-year survival rate of just 30% once it spreads. Many older Canadians are unaware they’re at risk simply because skin changes happen slowly. A mole that didn’t look concerning last year could become dangerous by next summer.
What Actually Works: Real Protection Tips
Good news: Protecting yourself doesn’t mean giving up the sun altogether. It just means being smart and consistent with your habits, especially as you age.
Here’s how to reduce your risk and avoid becoming one of the tens of thousands of Canadians diagnosed with skin cancer each year:
Use Broad-Spectrum SPF 30 or Higher — Every Day
UV rays don’t take days off. Even on cloudy days or while driving, UV radiation penetrates through clouds and windows. That’s why the Canadian Dermatology Association recommends daily sunscreen use from May through September—even if you’re not spending the whole day outside.
Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen to protect against both UVA (aging) and UVB (burning) rays. And yes, SPF 15 isn’t enough. Aim for SPF 30 or higher, and make it a part of your morning routine—right next to brushing your teeth.
Reapply Every 2 Hours Or More If You’re Swimming or Sweating
One of the biggest sunscreen myths? That one coat in the morning is enough. In reality, sunscreen breaks down after 2 hours, especially if you’re outdoors, sweating, or in the water.
If you’re at the beach, playing sports, or doing yard work, set a reminder to reapply. And don’t forget spots like:
- Ears
- Tops of feet
- Back of the neck
- Scalp (yes, even if you have hair)
Don’t Rely on Makeup With SPF — It’s Not Enough
SPF in your foundation or moisturizer might sound convenient, but it rarely offers full protection. Most people apply too little makeup to achieve the advertised SPF level, and they don’t reapply it throughout the day. Think of SPF makeup as a bonus layer, not your only defence.
Fact: To achieve SPF 30 from a typical foundation, you’d need to apply 7x the normal amount. Not realistic—and definitely not cute.
Wear Protective Clothing and Accessories
Clothing is your first line of defence. Long-sleeve shirts, pants, and wide-brimmed hats can physically block UV rays. Look for clothing labelled UPF 50+ if you’re spending long periods outdoors.
Also invest in UV-blocking sunglasses to protect your eyes and the delicate skin around them—one of the most common areas for skin cancer.
Check Your Skin Monthly And Know What to Look For
Make it a habit to scan your skin in the mirror once a month. Use the ABCDE rule to spot potential melanomas:
- Asymmetry
- Border irregularity
- Colour variation
- Diameter larger than 6mm
- Evolving shape or colour
Look at your back, scalp, under nails, and behind ears—areas often missed. If anything looks new or concerning, don’t wait. Early detection is your best shot at successful treatment.
Book a Yearly Skin Check — Especially If You’re Over 50
As you age, your skin’s ability to repair sun damage decreases. That’s why older adults now account for over 80% of skin cancer deaths in Canada. Fair-skinned individuals and those with a family history of melanoma are even more at risk.
If you fall into a high-risk category—or just want peace of mind—ask your doctor for a dermatology referral or search for skin cancer screening clinics in your area.
Noticed Something Suspicious?
If you spot a mole that’s changing shape, colour, or size—or a sore that won’t heal—it’s time to get it checked. Early detection is key.
Can’t find a doctor? Medimap can help you search for clinics in your area or connect with a provider faster.
Discover a streamlined way to manage appointments and increase visibility. Join our network of healthcare professionals today at medimap.ca.