Melanoma Prevention Tips for Memorial Day Weekend: Stay Sun Safe This Summer

Paula Gallagher on 05/21/2025

As Memorial Day Weekend kicks off the unofficial start of summer, many of us are gearing up for hikes, gardening, backyard barbecues, and beach days. But as you grab your swimsuit and sandals, don’t forget the most important summer accessory: sun protection.

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the U.S., and melanoma—the most serious form—is rising rapidly, especially among young adults. Fortunately, melanoma is highly preventable with the right precautions.

Why Sun Protection Matters This Memorial Day Weekend

More sun exposure means greater risk of UV damage. And while everyone loves a sunny weekend, overexposure—especially without sunscreen or protective clothing—can increase your long-term risk of developing melanoma and other types of skin cancer.

Who’s Most at Risk for Melanoma?

Anyone can develop melanoma, but certain factors increase your risk:

Fair skin, light eyes, and blond or red hair
History of sunburns (especially in childhood)
Tanning bed use
Multiple or irregular moles
Family history of melanoma
Weakened immune system

Melanoma is more common in adults over 50, but it’s also one of the most frequently diagnosed cancers in young women between ages 25–35.

How to Prevent Skin Cancer: Smart Sun Safety Habits

Taking a few proactive steps can drastically reduce your melanoma risk:

Use sunscreen daily – Choose a broad-spectrum mineral sunscreen with SPF 30+
Reapply regularly – Every 2 hours, or immediately after swimming/sweating
Wear protective clothing – Long sleeves, wide-brimmed hats, and UV-blocking sunglasses
Avoid peak UV hours – Stay in the shade between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Skip tanning beds – Just one session increases your melanoma risk by 20%
Do monthly self-exams – Watch for new or changing moles using the ABCDE rule
Schedule annual dermatologist visits – Especially if you’re high-risk

Favorite Sunscreens at Village Green Apothecary

We’ve handpicked non-toxic, reef-safe sunscreens that blend clean ingredients with serious sun protection. Perfect for sensitive skin and everyday wear!

Badger SPF 30 Active Mineral Sunscreen

Water-resistant, great for hiking and beach days. Made with clean ingredients like zinc oxide and sunflower oil.

MyChelle Sun Shield Liquid SPF 50

Lightweight with antioxidant-rich coverage—ideal under makeup. Contains zinc oxide and botanicals.

MyChelle Sun Shield Stick SPF 50

Mineral-based, water resistant sunscreen glides on smoothly and delivers powerful UVA and UVB broad-spectrum protection. Avocado, Jojoba and Vitamin E Oils moisturize and protect skin. Lightly tinted for a neutral finish. Also available in non tinted.

Babo Botanicals Baby sunscreen SPF 50

Fragrance-free, family-friendly, gentle, and perfect for babies and sensitive skin types.

Protect Your Skin—And Your Future

Melanoma may be on the rise, but so is awareness. Use Memorial Day Weekend as your reminder to protect your skin, educate your loved ones, and make sun safety a part of your routine. By practicing sun safety and using trusted, non-toxic products, you can enjoy all the fun of summer while protecting your future health.

Stop by Village Green Apothecary or shop online to explore our full line of mineral sunscreens, antioxidant-rich skincare, and other essentials for a healthy, sun-safe season.

Summer Skin Starts with Smart Choices—We're Here to Help.

Our team at Village Green Apothecary can help you choose the safest, most effective sun care and skin support products for your needs. Book a personalized consultation today to get expert advice on sun protection and skin health.

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