As Bermuda heads into our first long weekend of summer with parades, beaches, boating, camps, road races and outdoor living, it is worth remembering that one of the most preventable cancers is also one of the most common. Skin cancer does not happen from a single day in the sun. It develops from years of cumulative ultraviolet (UV) exposure, often beginning in childhood and building quietly over time.

At Bermuda Cancer and Health Centre, prevention and early detection are central to our mission of reducing the impact of cancer in Bermuda. Sun safety is not about avoiding the outdoors, it is about learning how to enjoy Bermuda’s climate in a healthier, more informed way.

Many people still associate sunscreen mainly with preventing sunburn. In reality, sunscreen plays a much bigger role. Regular use of sunscreen has been shown to significantly reduce the risk of squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer. It also helps prevent premature skin ageing, including wrinkles, pigmentation and loss of skin elasticity caused by UV damage.

But not all sunscreens are the same.

Mineral-based sunscreens, also called physical sunscreens, use ingredients such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to create a protective barrier on the skin that reflects and scatters UV rays. They begin protecting immediately after application and are generally well tolerated, particularly for children and people with sensitive skin.

Increasingly, many dermatologists and health organisations recommend mineral-based sunscreen as a reliable, broad-spectrum option because it protects against both UVA rays, which contribute to ageing and deeper skin damage, and UVB rays, which cause burning. Zinc oxide, in particular, offers excellent broad-spectrum coverage.

The most important thing is consistency. The best sunscreen is the one you will actually use every day.

Sun protection should not start at the beach. In Bermuda, UV exposure happens while driving, gardening, walking the dog, sitting at sports fields, hanging laundry or having lunch outdoors. Even on cloudy days, up to 80 per cent of UV radiation can still penetrate the clouds.

A good daily routine includes applying a broad-spectrum SPF 30-35 sunscreen every morning to exposed skin. If you are spending extended time outdoors, especially near water or during peak sun hours, reapplication is important every two hours and after swimming or heavy sweating.

Sunscreen, however, is only one part of a complete sun-safe lifestyle. Seek shade whenever possible, particularly between 10am and 4pm when UV levels are strongest. Wear UV-protective sunglasses, lightweight long sleeves and wide-brimmed hats. Children should be taught these habits early because sun damage in childhood can significantly increase skin cancer risk later in life.

There is also a growing misconception that darker skin tones do not need sunscreen. While skin cancer risk may differ between skin types, everyone can experience UV damage, and skin cancers in darker skin are often diagnosed later, making outcomes potentially more serious.

Being sun smart is not about fear. It is about reducing your skin cancer risk while continuing to enjoy the lifestyle that makes Bermuda special. Small daily habits, repeated consistently, can make a meaningful difference over a lifetime.