Video: More fun, less sun: Protect yourself from skin cancer By Mayo Clinic Staff Share Facebook Twitter Print details Can special sunglasses help reduce the risk of skin cancer? How many types of skin cancer are there? What time of year is really sunscreen season? Watch to learn the basics of skin cancer, including what you can do to protect yourself. Show transcript More fun, less sun: Protect yourself from skin cancer 1 in 5 people will develop skin cancer. 90% of cases are linked to sun exposure. Some people are more at risk: Fair skin History of sunburns Lots of moles Lots of time in the sun High-altitude location Tanning bed use But not all skin cancers are the same. Basal cell carcinoma 80% of skin cancer cases 4+ million cases per year Treated with minor surgery, freezing or radiation Squamous cell carcinoma 19% of skin cancer cases 1 million+ cases per year Treated with minor surgery or topical meds Melanoma 1% of skin cancer cases Most dangerous, with 9,000 deaths a year Treated with surgery, chemo, radiation Here's the bright side. You can lower your risk for skin cancer. Avoid UV rays. Seek shade and skip tanning beds. Apply sunscreen. Use it year-round. Cover up. Wear hats, long sleeves and UV-protective sunglasses. Get to know your skin. See a doctor if you find a new spot or one that won't heal. Early detection, better outcomes. Get yourself covered. From the experts at Mayo Clinic. VID-20538262