Sunscreen guidelines highlight missed body areas and early skin‑cancer warning signs

Health experts advise that eight body regions are frequently left unprotected when applying sunscreen: the scalp, ears, neck, eyelids, lips, hands, knees and feet. Proper coverage of these zones helps prevent sunburn and long‑term skin damage.

In Brazil, where UV exposure is high, the National Cancer Institute predicts up to 263,280 new cases of non‑melanoma skin cancer and 9,360 melanomas annually by 2028. Five early warning signs of skin cancer include disappearing moles, persistent scalp flaking, irregular sunspots, dark lines or bruises under the nails, and a smooth, firm bump on the eyelid. The Brazilian Dermatology Society recommends daily use of sunscreen with at least SPF 50, avoidance of sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., and wearing hats, sunglasses and protective clothing.