I always make sure to slather my kids in sunscreen when we head outside. Let’s be honest—it feels like a non-negotiable part of our routine, much like buckling seatbelts before a road trip. We’ve all heard the chilling stats about how those sunburns in childhood can set the stage for skin cancer later in life, right? So, I’ve convinced myself that being the “obnoxious sunblock helicopter mom” is just me doing my job in keeping my kids’ skin safe for the future.
But then, a recent conversation with a friend honestly rattled me. She mentioned that her nephew was diagnosed with melanoma, which launched me straight into that parental anxiety spiral. How common is skin cancer in kids, really? Am I doing enough? Should I be checking my now moody, body-conscious teens for skin changes more often?
To ease my panic and gain some clarity, I turned to experts. I spoke with Dr. Viktoryia Kazlosukaya, a double-board-certified dermatologist and the owner of Dermatology Circle in New York City, along with Dr. Daniel Atkinson, the GP clinical lead at Treated.com, an online health service. They provided some valuable insights that every parent should know.
So… can kids actually get skin cancer? Unfortunately, yes. While it’s not very frequent, certain risk factors can increase susceptibility. “Though rare, children can develop skin cancer,” Dr. Atkinson reveals. “It’s less common in kids than in adults, but those who have light skin, a family history of skin cancer, or a lot of sun exposure are at higher risk.”
How skin cancer manifests in kids can differ significantly from how it does in adults. “For adults, the most common types are basal and squamous cell carcinomas, usually tied to accumulated sun exposure,” Dr. Kazlosukaya explains. “In children, however, these cancers often arise from genetic mutations rather than just being environmental, linked to conditions like nevoid basal cell carcinoma syndrome (or Gorlin syndrome), which can cause multiple basal cell carcinomas from a young age, among other symptoms.”
There are other rare genetic conditions out there too, but thankfully, most are uncommon. You might be wondering what’s the most prevalent skin cancer in kids? It’s actually melanoma. “Each year, about 500 to 700 cases of melanoma are diagnosed in children in the U.S.,” Dr. Kazlosukaya informs me. However, she emphasizes that pediatric melanomas often come from different mutations than those in adults and are not as closely related to sun exposure. But that doesn’t mean we should skimp on sun protection.
So, what should parents be on the lookout for in their kids’ skin? You can follow the same guidelines you’d use for yourself when doing a skin check. Feeling unsure? Here are some key features to keep an eye on:
– Asymmetry: Does one half of the mole look different from the other?
– Border: Is the edge irregular or ragged?
– Color: Is it tan, brown, and black?
– Diameter: Is it about 6mm across?
– Evolving: Has it changed in size or color over time?
“If you find yourself answering ‘yes’ to any of these points, it’s best to consult a doctor,” Dr. Atkinson advises. “The sooner you detect skin cancer, the better.”
Dr. Kazlosukaya adds that in kids, melanoma may not look like the classic dark spots we often associate with it; it can even appear pink or pimple-like, making it easier to overlook.
When it comes to protection, applying sunscreen is just the tip of the iceberg. We know we should be doing that, but specifics matter. “Aim for a sunscreen with SPF 50 or higher,” Dr. Atkinson suggests. “Apply it 30 minutes before exposure and reapply every two hours, especially after swimming, even if it’s water-resistant.”
While you might notice varying recommendations about SPF levels from different sources, I’ve decided it’s better to err on the side of caution. The American Academy of Dermatology backs up the recommendation that at least SPF 30 is suitable, but personally, I’m sticking with 50+ for my kids.
Besides sunscreen, remember to limit sun exposure, especially during peak hours. We’re not suggesting you keep your kids cooped up indoors; just encourage them to hang out in shaded areas whenever possible. And when it comes to clothing, think about covering up. That classic summer outfit of shorts and a t-shirt? While cute, the more skin you cover, the better off they’ll be. Lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen can help keep them cool while also providing protection.
Lastly, don’t neglect the importance of regular skin checks with your kids to spot anything unusual that could point to a cancerous mole.
If you notice anything concerning, don’t hesitate to contact your child’s pediatrician or your family doctor. “They’ll conduct an initial evaluation, and if there’s a need, they’ll refer you to a dermatologist,” Dr. Atkinson explains reassuringly.
If you have a trusted dermatologist who sees children, feel free to reach out to them directly. The bottom line? Even in kids, early detection and diligent sun protection are crucial. “Stay vigilant, and when in doubt, have it checked!” Dr. Kazlosukaya advises earnestly.
In the end, navigating these concerns as a parent can feel overwhelming, but being proactive and informed is the best defense you have. We’re all in this together, and taking small but meaningful steps can ensure our kids are protected as they grow.
Image Source: Ground Picture / Shutterstock
