While melanoma accounts for just 1% of all skin cancers, it causes the majority of skin cancer-related deaths. The incidence of melanoma has been steadily increasing for the last 30 years – especially in adolescents and young adults.

The majority of melanoma cases occur due to a combination of genetics and ultraviolet exposure from the sun and artificial ultraviolet light (UV) through tanning beds.

"If you have risk factors for melanoma or notice anything new, changing, painful or bleeding, you should see a board-certified dermatologist. Our team specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of melanoma and other skin cancers," says dermatologist Adam Sutton, MD.

Tips to avoid sun damage:

• Stay out of the sun from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., when sunlight is most direct
• Choose a sunscreen with at least SPF 30 protection. The sunscreen should be "broad spectrum," which means it protects against both UVA and UVB rays
• Apply 1 to 2 ounces of sunscreen (the size of a pingpong ball)
• Reapply sunscreen every two hours, or more often if you sweat a lot. You should also reapply after getting out of the water

When caught in the early stages, melanoma very rarely goes outside the skin and is highly curable with surgery, including Mohs surgery for head and neck melanomas.