Melanoma is one of the most severe forms of skin cancer. The condition develops when the cells responsible for producing the pigment melanin become cancerous. This results in the uncontrolled growth of dark pigmented spots that change in shape and size as cancer progresses. But early detection can help manage the condition.

Here are some preventive measures that can help reduce the risk of developing melanoma to some extent.

1. Avoid indoor tanning
Avoid the use of artificial tanning booths, beds, sunbeds, or sunlamps to darken the skin tone. Even if they are safe to use, artificial tanning methods employ high amounts of ultraviolet radiation. Extended exposure in a closed environment increases the risk of melanoma and other known types of skin cancer. Tanning forces the skin to produce more melanin, and as a result, the excess melanin moves toward the surface of the skin, giving it a darker skin tone.

2. Stay protected outdoors
If venturing out in the hot sun, ensure that the skin is protected with sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Wear a large hat and use sunshades to protect the eyes from the sun as well. Understand that the UV rays of the sun are more concentrated and reflected with high intensity at tropical and beach locations. Hence, covering the arms and legs with full clothing can protect the skin for the most part of the day. One can also switch to UVA/UVB SPF 30 sunscreen formula that is also water-resistant to prevent perspiration from stripping it off the surface.

3. Check the skin for new spots
Melanoma develops on the outer layer of the skin rather unexpectedly and in the places one would least expect spots to grow. Often, these pigmentations can be a result of a high concentration of melanin in a particular spot, making the skin look darker. However, it pays to be vigilant and get irregularly shaped spots checked, as some may indicate the first signs of skin cancer. More attention should be paid to the areas where one must have gotten sunburnt or have not used sunscreen. Prolonged exposure can drastically change the concentration of the melanin pigment. Do not overlook such discolorations.

4. Check the nails
Many skin cancer lesions can also develop under the nails and are visible. So, it pays to strip the nail polish off and check thoroughly under the nail once a month. Any dark discoloration or unevenly shaped moles that may appear out of place indicate a developing skin condition. Remember, early diagnosis is one of the best preventive measures that help reduce the risk of cancerous skin conditions. Early detection helps doctors formulate a treatment plan that improves the quality of life.

Even after taking all the precautions, it pays to schedule visits to the dermatologist to have any existing moles and skin patches checked as a precaution.