4 reasons why melanoma is more common in men and what to do about your skin cancer risks

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in both men and women. But by age 50, men are more likely to develop it and more likely to die from it.

Melanoma is a specific type of skin cancer. While it makes up only about 1% of all skin cancers, it causes the majority of skin cancer deaths. The American Cancer Society (ACS) estimates that 65,400 men and 46,600 women will be diagnosed with melanoma in 2026. Of these, it’s estimated that 5,500 men and 3,010 women will die from the disease.

So, why are men at higher risk? Experts believe it’s a combination of factors, including behaviors and beliefs about sun protection and health care. The good news is that all these factors are within your control. Here, we explain four reasons for differences in melanoma rates in men and what you can do to lower your risk.

1. On average, men spend more time in the sun

One of the causes of melanoma is overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds. Jobs that require working outdoors can significantly increase this risk, especially with prolonged exposure during peak daylight hours. Over time, repeated exposure adds up, increasing the likelihood of skin damage and cancer. Frequent sunburns are also a clear sign of increased risk.

Men are more likely to work in outdoor jobs such as construction and farming, where they may spend 8-10 hours a day in the sun. In fact, in a study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) about 66.1% of agricultural workers and 95.6% of construction workers were male.

2. Men are less likely to protect themselves from the UV rays that cause skin cancer

Research shows that men are less likely to take measures to protect themselves from the sun when outdoors, which further increases their risk. Sun protective behaviors include wearing sunscreen, protective clothing or a wide-brimmed hat, and seeking shade when possible. Based on a 2020 National Health Interview Survey, only about 12% of men said they used sunscreen when they were outside on a sunny day for more than an hour.

Even when working outdoors most of the day, men don’t always protect themselves from the sun. The CDC study found that sunscreen use was low among workers in agriculture and construction (15.1% and 21.4%) with relatively few seeking shade on a regular basis (24.5% and 29.1%). Protective clothing was more common but still inconsistent (70.5% in agriculture and 53% in construction), and about one-third of workers reported at least one sunburn in the past year.

Reasons for low use of sun protective behaviors include lower risk awareness, fewer daily skin care habits, cultural attitudes and practical barriers like convenience and comfort. Based on a survey by the American Academy of Dermatology, only about 50% of men knew key facts such as:

• There’s no such thing as a healthy tan.
• A base tan doesn’t offer protection against the sun.
• Skin cancer can develop on skin that only gets occasional or little sun.

3. Men may pay less attention to their skin

In general, men spend less time thinking about their skin and how to keep it healthy. Daily skin care routines that include sunscreen or other forms of sun protection are less common among men, although this is changing, particularly among younger generations. Men are also less likely to perform routine skin checks. Because of this, men may be less aware of changes in their skin, such as new or changing moles.

4. Men are less likely to visit a doctor if they notice skin cancer symptoms

Men are more likely to put off care, both preventive and when they notice symptoms of skin cancer. National Health Statistics Reports from 2025 found that men are about 40% less likely than women to visit a doctor. But when doctor visits are skipped or delayed, it can lead to melanoma being diagnosed at a later, more serious stage when it’s harder to treat.

What men can do now to reduce their risk of skin cancer

While some risk factors for skin cancer can’t be changed, there are things you can do to significantly lower your risk of getting skin cancer or dying because of it.

Take steps to protect your skin from the sun

The most common places for melanoma are areas that get a lot of sun exposure, such as the face, back, arms and legs. There are ways to lower your risk of skin cancer by covering these areas with clothing and sunscreen, and spending time in the shade when possible. Here’s where to start:

• Lightweight, sun-protective clothing – Cover exposed skin with lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and long pants designed for hot weather. Choose clothing with a UPF rating for added protection from harmful UV rays.
• A wide-brimmed hat – Choose a hat with a wide brim to protect your face, ears and the back of your neck, areas that are often exposed and easy to miss with sunscreen.
• Broad-spectrum sunscreen with a SPF of 30 or higher – While there are things you should look for in a sunscreen, the most important thing is to find one that you’ll actually use. If you’ve avoided sunscreen in the past because you don’t like how it feels, it may be time to give it another try. Today’s options include lightweight lotions, gels, sticks and spray-on formulas that are quicker to apply and less greasy than previous products. Just remember they still need to be applied evenly and regularly to be effective.

Watch your skin for changes

The first signs of melanoma are often a change in an existing mole or a new or unusual-looking growth on the skin. That’s why it’s important to pay attention to any new or changing spots on your skin, especially if you have a family history of melanoma or other skin cancers.

When checking your skin, make sure to check every inch of it, even between your toes. A mirror can help you see your head, neck, back and genitals. You’re looking for new moles or spots, or existing marks that change in size, shape or color, and sores that don’t heal. The ABCDE rule can be helpful to help you notice warning signs.

1. Asymmetry
2. Borders that are uneven
3. Colors that are inconsistent
4. Diameter that’s larger than a pencil eraser
5. Evolving over time

Talk to your doctor if you notice skin changes (and even if you don’t)

Skin cancer is becoming more treatable than ever before, especially when found in the early stages. When skin cancer is found in a localized stage, the 5-year relative survival rate is over 99%, according to the ACS.

So if you spot anything that could be a sign of skin cancer, make an appointment with a primary care doctor or your dermatologist to have it checked as soon as possible.

Also, don’t skip preventive care. If it’s been a while since you’ve seen a doctor, schedule a men’s physical exam with a primary care doctor. If needed, they can refer you to a dermatologist.

Protect your skin, and your life

Men face a higher risk of developing and dying from melanoma, often due to a combination of greater sun exposure, lower use of protection and delayed care. But with a few changes, you can lower your skin cancer risk and help protect your long-term health. Start by focusing on sun protection, checking your skin regularly and seeing a doctor when something looks unusual.