5 Surprising Skin Cancer Risk Factors Skin cancer might pose a greater risk to your life than you think. These 5 risk factors, named by Prevention, are worth considering. 1. Getting just one bad sunburn According to the Melanoma Research Foundation, getting one severe sunburn can double your risk of developing skin cancer later in life. 2. Having fair skin The lighter your skin is, the less melanin you have as protection from the sun's rays. Sunscreen with an SPF 15 or higher can reduce your risk by 50 percent. 3. Being a ginger A 2013 study found that the same genetic mutation that causes red hair also activates a cancer-causing reaction when a ginger is exposed to UV radiation. 4. Living in the mountains The increase in UV radiation due to elevation, combined with the thinner air that can't absorb UV waves effectively, puts you at a higher risk. 5. Flying frequently Bruce Robinson, MD, via Prevention
