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jijijijij 6 hours ago

The amount of tanning isn't really an indicator, because it depends on the genetics how much melanin is in the skin to begin with and how much is produced as reaction to damage. I think the most important thing to keep in mind is not trying to get tanned intentionally, like the generations before us. IIRC, in about 70% of melanoma cancers you have a good chance of catching it early and be done with it. Once it metastasizes melanoma got a very bad prognosis. So, as adult, it's also important to frequently screen for it. Other skin cancers are usually not existentially threatening, but can fuck you up aesthetically, e.g. removal sacrificing chunks of your nose.

Personally, I use the UV index charts and avoid extremes, midday sun completely. I put on 50 SPF to my face and neck every time I leave the house. It's just routine. In winter I may skip it, because good sun screen is fucking expensive. Not so much about skin cancer, but rather skin aging. The face is always exposed. I am trying to get a little intentional sun exposure in spring after dark winter, slowly preparing my skin for summer and improving mood. However, I tan easily. If I had the skin type I, I would avoid the sun much more.

Did you notice how many people these days look younger? Even in their 30s? I think that's no smoking, intentional nutrition, exercise and sun screen (from childhood on).