To mark the summer season, the Baclesse Center is launching its prevention campaign , “This Summer, Enjoy the Sun Safely.”
While the sun is often associated with vacations, outdoor activities, and well-being, it can also pose a health risk when you’re exposed to it excessively. Every year, many cases of skin cancer could be prevented byadopting simple preventive measures. Through this campaign, the Baclesse Center aims to remind people of the best practices to follow so they can enjoy the summer while protecting their skin.
The Sun: A Valuable Ally… As Long as You Stay Vigilant
The sun plays a vital role in our bodies. In particular, it helps produce vitamin D, which is essential for bone health, and contributes to our overall well-being by positively influencing our mood.
But the sun also emits ultraviolet (UV) rays—which are invisible to the naked eye—that can have harmful effects on the skin and eyes.
We are exposed to two types of UV rays:
- UVA rays, which penetrate deep into the skin and contribute to its premature aging;
- UVB rays are the main cause of sunburn.
Some key figures
→ An estimated17, 922 new cases of skin melanoma were reported in France in 2023.
→ 1,922 melanoma-related deaths were recorded in 2022.
→ More than 80% of skin cancers are linked to excessive exposure to UV radiation.
→ 90% of skin cancers can be cured when detected early.
Sources: National Cancer Institute (INCa), Cancer Overview 2025.
Excessive exposure to UV rays can cause long-term damage to skin cells and increase the risk of developing skin cancer.
5 Tips for a Safe Summer
1. Seek out shade during the hottest part of the day
In France, UV rays are strongest between noon and 4 p.m.
Whenever possible, stay in the shade during this time.
Please note: A beach umbrella does not provide complete protection from UV rays.
2. Wear protective clothing
After shade, clothing is the best protection against UV rays.
Be sure to wear:
- clothing that covers the body;
- a wide-brimmed hat;
- sunglasses with UV protection (category 3 or 4).
3. Use appropriate sunscreen
Sunscreen should be used in addition to other forms of protection.
Choose a product with SPF 50 that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Reapply every two hours, as well as after swimming or exercising.
4. Stay well-hydrated
Hot weather increases your need for water. Be sure to drink regularly throughout the day, even if you don't feel thirsty.
5. Keep an eye on their skin
A mole that changes in appearance, an unusual spot, or a lesion that won't heal should prompt you to seek medical advice.
Protecting Children: An Essential Step
Children’s skin is more delicate and more sensitive to the effects of UV rays.
Excessive sun exposure and sunburns during childhood play a major role in the future development of skin cancer.
Some key points:
- Children under 3 years of age should not be exposed to direct sunlight.
- Priority should be given to clothing, hats, and sunglasses.
- Sunscreen should be applied to exposed areas.
Protecting children today also means safeguarding their health tomorrow.
Are we all equal in the face of the sun?
No. Some people are at higher risk of developing skin cancer.
Increased vigilance is recommended, especially if you:
- have fair skin;
- have a hard time tanning;
- have blonde or red hair;
- have many moles (more than 50);
- have a personal or family history of skin cancer;
- have had several cases of sunburn during childhood;
- engage in outdoor work or recreational activities;
- use tanning beds.
No matter what your skin type is, sun protection measures are still essential.
Screening for Skin Cancer: A Habit to Adopt
When detected early, skin cancers are curable in the vast majority of cases.
It is recommended that:
- to check your skin regularly;
- to monitor for the appearance of new moles;
- to identify any changes in size, shape, or color;
- to consult a healthcare professional if you have any doubts.
For people with risk factors, regular dermatological examinations are recommended.
The ABCDE Rule: A Simple Guide for Monitoring Your Moles
Be on the lookout for any mole that exhibits any of these signs:
→ A for Asymmetry: its shape is irregular
→ B for Borders: its edges are irregular
→ C for Color: it has multiple colors
→ D for Diameter: it measures more than 6 mm
→ E for Evolution: it changes in size, shape, or color.
