“Sunscreen? I don’t need that!” Unfortunately, this is a myth many women of color still believe today. Although it is assumed darker pigments are immune to the harmful UV rays of the sun, this is only partially true, as we’ve reported before. Here are three reasons everyone should use SPF.

While more melanin offers some protection, it is not merely enough to shield us from skin cancer. There are three types of skin cancer: squamous cell carcinomas, basal cell carcinomas, and malignant melanoma. Basal cell carcinomas and malignant melanoma are more commonly found in people of color, with the latter being the most fatal. Malignant melanoma is considered to be the scariest because not only does it spread quickly to other parts of the body, but it can also start on areas that are not highly exposed to the sun (i.e., feet and nails). If caught in the early stages, it can be cured, but unfortunately it is commonly misdiagnosed. It is imperative to pay attention and know your body.

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