Despite the plethora of information about the dangers of worshipping the sun, skin cancer is the most common cancer in the U.S., according to the Skin Cancer Foundation (SCF). Even if you think you’re being sun-smart—slapping on SPF, avoiding midday sun—there are some risk factors you may not be aware of. Luckily, you don’t have to shun the outdoors to stay safe; these tips will help you sort it all out.

Skin Cancer Basics

The news is not all bad. Of the three types of skin cancer, the most common, basal cell carcinoma, followed by squamous cell carcinoma, are both slow-growing and less dangerous than the third, more aggressive type, melanoma. Another positive point: All forms of the disease are relatively easy to cure… as long as it’s caught in time.

That’s why experts suggest you examine your body on a regular basis. “The best time to check yourself is after showering,” suggests Brunilda Nazario, MD, senior medical editor for WebMD. Log on to their Cancer Health Center (webmd.com/cancer/default.htm) for more info, as well as a cancer community area with boards and blogs.

Though symptoms vary from person to person, if you notice changes like rough, scaly patches of skin; a sore that bleeds or becomes crusty; or new or old moles that are raised, have a rough surface, or are asymmetrical, get checked out by your physician. For more visual cues and pictures, as well as tips on how to examine yourself, log on to the American Academy of Dermatology (aad.org/public/publications/pamphlets/sun_skin.html).

Everyone Needs Daily Protection

Better than catching skin cancer in time is preventing it completely. So start by protecting yourself with sunscreen. “Everyone should use an SPF of at least 30 every day,” advises Francesca Fusco, MD, dermatologist and spokesperson for the SCF. And, don’t think you’re risk-free if you have dark skin or live in a cold climate. “Winter sun can be at least as dangerous as summer sun,” says Dr. Fusco. “Maybe even more so because people have a false sense of security.”

The Bottom line

Apply SPF whenever you go outdoors, making sure you cover all of the skin surfaces that will be exposed. Also, reapply every two hours or if you’ve gotten wet… even if the product is labeled “waterproof.” There’s no such thing. In fact, the FDA has proposed that only “water resistant” and “very water resistant” be allowed in labeling.

You May Need More Than SPF

Sunscreen doesn’t totally block the sun. If you want to be super-cautious, wear protective clothing as well: a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses with UVA and UVB protection, and long-sleeve shirts and pants, preferably with a tightly-woven fabric. “The looser the knit, the more sun exposure you’ll get,” says Dr. Fusco.

To help you figure out your best options, the SCF has rated sun-safe products—including lotions, sunglasses, clothing, umbrellas—with their Seal of Recommendation. Check out their massive, consumer-friendly list at (skincancer.org).

Other Risk-Boosters

No matter how sun-savvy you are today, your old bad habits may come back to bite you. According to the SCF, your risk of skin cancer doubles if you have five or more sunburns in the past. You’re also playing with fire if you get a golden glow from a tanning bed. “There is no evidence that sun-tanning beds are safer than tanning naturally,” says Dr. Nazario. “They expose the skin to UV light, which raises the risk of developing skin cancer.” Even occasional use of tanning beds can triple your chances of melanoma, according to the American Cancer Society (cancer.org).

As with most diseases, it’s also important to know your family history.

“There is a genetic link to malignant melanoma,” notes Dr. Fusco. If any of your relatives have had the disease, or you have very fair skin or multiple moles, you need to be extra diligent. Whether you’re high risk or not, it doesn’t pay to take chances. If you really need that “sun-kissed look,” get it sprayed on.