Across Bermuda, Cup Match has a way of bringing us together. Whether you're dressed in blue and blue or red and blue, heading to the game, out on the boat, camping with family or spending the day at the beach, it's one of those weekends when we make the most of everything that makes summer in Bermuda special.

It also means many of us will spend long hours outdoors, often without really noticing just how much sun we're taking in.

That doesn't mean avoiding the outdoors or missing out on the weekend. It simply means enjoying it a little more safely.

The good news is that simple habits really do make a difference.

Most skin cancers are linked to exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun. The encouraging news is that many skin cancers are preventable, and protecting your skin doesn’t require drastic changes.

It's about building a few simple habits into your daily routine. Individually, they may seem small, but over time, they can make a meaningful difference in reducing your risk of skin cancer while helping to keep your skin healthier.

Living on an island, the sun is part of our everyday lives. We don't just experience it on holiday, we commute in it, exercise in it, work in it and spend our weekends enjoying it. Bermuda's outdoor lifestyle, year-round sunshine and high UV levels mean protecting our skin isn't something we should think about only occasionally; it's a habit worth practising year-round.

One common misconception is that only people with fair skin need to worry about sun exposure. In reality, people of all skin tones can experience sun damage. While darker skin may burn less easily, UV exposure can still damage the skin, increase the risk of skin cancer and contribute to premature ageing. Protecting your skin is important for everyone, including children, adults and older adults.

You don't have to stay indoors to protect your skin. A few practical steps can help you enjoy the Bermuda sunshine while reducing unnecessary sun exposure.

Choose a mineral-based, broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. Apply it before heading outside and reapply every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating.

Whether you're watching the cricket match, relaxing on the beach or spending the day at camp, take regular breaks in the shade whenever you can. A little time out of direct sunlight gives your skin a chance to recover.

A wide-brimmed hat helps protect your face and neck, sunglasses protect your eyes, and lightweight long sleeves (UV protective clothing) can provide an extra layer of protection without making you uncomfortable.

The sun is strongest around midday, so if you can, plan a break indoors or under cover before heading back out.

Children's skin is especially sensitive to UV damage. Helping them develop sun-safe habits now can protect their health for years to come.

Sun protection doesn't take away from the enjoyment of Cup Match or the summer. In fact, it helps ensure you can continue enjoying these moments for many years to come. Putting on sunscreen before leaving home, wearing a hat or finding some shade for a while may seem like small actions, but together they provide meaningful protection over a lifetime.

As an added bonus, these same habits can also help reduce the visible signs of premature skin ageing, keeping your skin healthier as the years go by.

It's also worth paying attention to your skin. If you notice a new or changing mole, or any unusual change to your skin, don't ignore it. Speak with your healthcare provider. Early detection can make all the difference.

From the excitement of Cup Match to boat days, beach gatherings and evenings spent with family and friends, Bermuda's outdoor lifestyle is something to celebrate. By taking a few simple precautions, you can enjoy every moment while helping to reduce your risk of skin cancer.

This Cup Match, wear your colours proudly, enjoy the cricket, the beaches and the time spent with the people who matter most — but don't forget to look after your skin along the way.

A few simple habits today can help protect your health for many summers to come.

• Text provided by Bermuda Cancer and Health Centre