Melanocytes are tiny cells in the skin that give your skin its distinctive color. When these melanocytes grow uncontrollably, melanoma (skin cancer) may result. While this kind of cancer is not very common, it is far more dangerous if not diagnosed and treated early. So, you must visit a doctor at the first signs of trouble. There are several causes of melanoma.

Causes

1. Watch out for the sun
Sun is a huge contributor to aging, making it one of the biggest causes of melanoma. The sun’s rays are pretty powerful, and it affects the skin’s elastin. Once the elastin is reduced, the elasticity in your skin disappears. This leads to sagging, and you begin to appear aged. This indirectly contributes to a greater risk of getting skin cancer or melanoma.

2. Tanning beds may not be the best thing
Tanning is one of the other causes of melanoma, leading to a greater risk of skin cancer. The tanning beds and salons may give you a perfect look in the short run, but they can become dangerous in the long term. The chemicals used to tan your skin tend to cause damage to your skin. Excessive tanning can lead to early aging, contributing to a greater risk of skin cancer.

Symptoms
Now that we have covered the causes of melanoma, let us look at the risk factors.

1. A weak immune system is at a higher risk
Suppose you are suffering from any other chronic condition, requiring you to use medications that may be suppressing your immune system. In that case, you will be at a higher risk of developing melanoma.

2. Age and ethnicity
While anyone can develop melanoma, the rates are higher in white people than in black. As far as age is concerned, the average age of those diagnosed with melanoma is 65. The median age is about 50; which means that half of the people are younger than 50, and the other half are over. Compared to any other type of cancer, melanoma is known to occur in younger adults.

3. Pay attention to family history
Family history is also one of the major causes of melanoma. It is said that about 10% of people who have melanoma have some family history. If you have close relatives diagnosed with melanoma, you must pay closer attention to your skin and get your skin examined regularly.

4. Other factors
Moles, especially unusual moles, are a point of concern. These must be investigated, especially if they are irregular in shape, color, or size. Another factor that plays a role is the color of your skin. If you are fair-skinned and have freckles, your risk is higher, as such skin tends to burn very easily.

Watch out for these risk factors and causes of melanoma.