Skin care

Sneaky Secrets About Skin Cancer in Dark Skin

A little bit of built-in SPF doesn't mean you're off the hook. See why every complexion under the sun is at risk

by Erica Smith | 1 COMMENT

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There's a handful of things that can scare you into wearing sunscreen: fine lines, age spots, wrinkles on wrinkles, a killer burn. But when you have a darker complexion, it's easy to think that all of these sun-related skin issues don't apply, because you erroneously think you're immune to the sun's aging rays. The harsh reality is, UVA and UVB rays are dangerous to everybody, no matter how dark your complexion is. And where more serious consequences like skin cancer are concerned, dark-skinned people may be at an even greater risk.

Sure, white women have the highest rates of skin cancer, but that doesn't mean Latina and black women are off the hook. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, minorities tend to be diagnosed at a more advanced stage of skin cancer and have lower chances of survival than Caucasians do. It's time to take charge and protect yourself from the sun. Click ahead to see the top secrets about skin care in dark skin and what you can do to stay safe this summer.

SEE NEXT PAGE: The Secret: Sometimes it hides where the sun doesn't shine

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