Today's Edition
SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)
Observed annually in May, Skin Cancer Awareness Month highlights the importance of prevention, early detection, and public awareness, encouraging individuals to adopt stronger sun protection habits and prioritise regular skin examinations to reduce long-term skin damage risks.
Speaking to Aletihad on the occasion, dermatology and skincare specialists drew attention to the most common sun safety mistakes, the importance of early detection, and the precautions residents should take during the summer months.
Minimise Direct Sun Exposure
Dr Riham Sharrouf, Specialist, Dermatology, Burjeel Day Surgery Centre, Al Reem Island, stressed that cumulative ultraviolet exposure remains one of the leading risk factors for both melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers, especially during hotter months – between May and September – when UV radiation levels rise significantly.
She noted that prevention requires a combination of sun avoidance, protective clothing, and proper sunscreen use. "Minimise direct sun exposure between 10am and 4pm, when UV radiation is the strongest," she said.
Dr Sharrouf noted that one of the most common mistakes people make is applying insufficient amounts of sunscreen or neglecting protection on cloudy days and indoors near windows, despite UVA rays remaining present year round in the Gulf region.
"Current dermatology guidelines recommend using broad-spectrum sunscreen [against both UVA and UVB] daily with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher. It should be applied generously and reapplied every two hours, or sooner with sweating or swimming," she explained.
She also stressed that darker skin tones are not fully protected from UV related damage and highlighted the importance of protecting children from sunburn early in life.
"Early-life UV protection is one of the most effective long-term prevention measures," she added.
Speaking about prevention and treatment outcomes, Dr Sharrouf stressed the importance of regular skin checks and recognising suspicious changes early.
"Detecting suspicious lesions early increases cure rates, allows simpler treatment, and reduces the risk of spread or serious complications," she said.
Recognising Warning Signs Early
Meanwhile, Dr Tara Bardawil, Specialist Medical and Cosmetic Dermatologist and advisor to Neutrogena, highlighted the long-term risks associated with repeated sun exposure and delayed diagnosis.
"Importantly, cumulative sun exposure over many years plays a major role, so even gradual daily exposure without protection can contribute to long-term damage," she said.
Dr Bardawil explained that individuals with fair skin, repeated sunburns, prolonged outdoor exposure, family history of skin cancer, or multiple atypical moles may face higher risks.
She also highlighted the importance of recognising warning signs early through the internationally recognised "ABCDE" rule for melanoma detection, which includes asymmetry, border irregularities, colour changes, diameter, and evolving lesions.
"People should also watch for the 'ugly duckling' sign – a mole that looks noticeably different from the others. Any changing or unusual lesion should be assessed promptly by a dermatologist."
One of the biggest mistakes, she noted, is applying too little sunscreen or failing to reapply it regularly, while also neglecting commonly exposed areas such as the ears, lips, neck and hands.
She added that relying only on sunscreen without hats, shade or protective clothing, and underestimating daily sun exposure, remain common issues.
Dr Bardawil also noted that public education plays a key role in turning prevention into long-term behavioural habits and encouraging earlier diagnosis.
"Early detection is critical," she said. "Regular skin checks, awareness of warning signs, and prompt medical evaluation can truly be lifesaving."
Sun Protection Should be a Daily Habit
At Tajmeel Clinic, Dr Shehzadi Kohli, Specialist Plastic Surgeon and Medical Director, stressed that sun protection in the UAE should become part of a daily routine rather than something limited to outdoor activities.
"The UAE's summer UV levels are exceptionally intense, so sun protection should be a daily habit, not reserved for beach days," she said.
Dr Kohli explained that many people underestimate everyday exposure during commuting or walking outdoors and often fail to reapply sunscreen regularly in high temperatures.
She also warned against the misconception that darker skin tones are fully protected from UV-related risks. "Even brief daily exposure contributes to cumulative skin damage over time," she added.
Speaking about treatment and recovery, Dr Kohli stressed that identifying suspicious skin changes early can significantly improve outcomes and reduce complications.
"Skin cancers identified early are typically far easier to treat and are associated with significantly better outcomes," she said.
