We often think of the sun as something that energizes us—and it does. But while sunlight uplifts the soul, it can quietly wear down the skin.

At IOCI, we see the long-term effects of UV exposure far too often. People walk in with what seems like a harmless patch, only to discover it’s something much more serious. The common factor? Years of ignoring sunscreen.
This blog is your reminder: the sun can be your friend—if you know how to respect it.

 

What Happens When Skin Meets UV

Ultraviolet (UV) rays break down your skin at a cellular level. They damage DNA, weaken skin structure, and trigger mutations over time.

That’s how prolonged UV exposure becomes a risk factor for:

• Mouth cancer
• Throat cancer
• Skin cancers like squamous cell or melanoma

 

People often associate skin cancer only with fair skin or old age, but we’ve diagnosed it in young outdoor workers, women in their 30s, and even students who spent years avoiding sunscreen.

 

Sunscreen: Small Habit, Big Protection

The most effective way to prevent sun damage?
Sunscreen, every day. No matter what.

• Use SPF 30 or higher
• Make sure it’s broad-spectrum (UVA + UVB)
• Reapply every 2–3 hours outdoors
• Don’t forget ears, neck, lips, and hands

 

For patients undergoing throat cancer treatment or facial radiation, sunscreen becomes even more critical as the skin remains extra sensitive.

 

Sun Protection Isn’t Just About Creams

There are simple ways to build sun safety into your life:

• Avoid stepping out in peak UV hours (10 AM to 4 PM)
• Wear full-sleeved, breathable clothes
• Choose wide-brimmed hats instead of caps
• Use UV-protective sunglasses
• Get your skin examined annually at a Best Diagnostic Testing Center

 

Real Talk: A Small Patch That Saved a Life

Nirmala Devi, 46, came to IOCI Saharanpur for a persistent ulcer near her lip. She was a dairy farm worker, always outdoors, rarely using sunscreen.

A biopsy confirmed early-stage mouth cancer.
She was treated with surgery followed by targeted radiation—and today, she’s doing well.

What shocked her most?

“I never thought sun exposure could cause mouth cancer. I thought it only darkened the skin.”

We now use her story in awareness camps across villages, because her honesty helps others spot the signs early.

 

At IOCI, We Help You Stay Ahead

Our centers across India are equipped for:

• Early detection of skin and oral cancers
• Biopsy and imaging services
• Follow-up treatment including surgical oncology
• Skin care and recovery support after treatment

 

Sun damage is slow—but so is protection.
And that’s a good thing, because it means you have time to act.

Book a consultation at any of our centers across Noida, Greater Noida, Mumbai, Indore, Aurangabad, Agartala, Saharanpur, Kanpur and Jodhpur.