Skin cancer risk factors

Anyone can develop skin cancer, but some personal, medical and exposure factors can increase risk. Knowing your risk can help you decide when to discuss skin checks with a doctor.

 

FACTORS THAT CAN INCREASE RISK
Risk may be higher if you have:
• frequent or unprotected exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, including significant sunburn, particularly during childhood
• fair or freckled skin that burns easily, light-coloured eyes, or fair or red hair
• many moles, or moles with an irregular shape or uneven colour
• a previous melanoma or another skin cancer, or a first-degree relative with melanoma
• worked outdoors or spent substantial time outside
• used solariums or deliberately tanned
• a weakened immune system because of a medical condition or immune-suppressing medicine
• increasing age and accumulated sun damage.

People with brown, black, olive or very dark skin can also develop skin cancer, sometimes in areas with little sun exposure.

 

ONLINE RISK CALCULATOR
An external risk-prediction tool can provide a general estimate based on information you enter:
https://www.scanyourskin.org/risk-prediction-tool/

A calculator cannot diagnose skin cancer and should not replace a medical examination. A low estimated risk does not mean a new or changing spot should be ignored.

 

WHEN TO ARRANGE A SKIN CHECK
Book an assessment if you notice a new or changing spot, a spot that looks different from your others, a sore that does not heal, or an area that repeatedly bleeds, crusts, itches or becomes tender.

If you have several risk factors, a previous skin cancer or a strong family history of melanoma, discuss an appropriate skin-check schedule with your doctor.

Sources reviewed October 2026: Cancer Council Australia and Healthdirect.