Do You Need a Skin Check in Every Season? Why Summer Isn’t the Only Time to Act

In Australia, most people book a skin check in summer. It’s the season of sunshine, swimsuits, and skin awareness campaigns. But is summer the only time you should worry about your skin? Not quite.

In fact, skin cancer doesn’t follow the seasons—and neither should your skin checks.

Why People Get Skin Checks in Summer

Summer often triggers skin concerns for a few reasons:

  • More skin is exposed, making spots and moles easier to see

  • Public health campaigns peak in the warmer months

  • Holidays bring more time to book appointments

But these reasons are more about awareness and convenience than actual risk.

UV Exposure Happens All Year Round

In many parts of Australia, UV levels remain high even in winter and autumn. Long-term cumulative exposure is a major cause of skin cancer—not just summer sunburns.

This means:

  • A mole that changes in May is just as concerning as one that appears in December

  • Skin damage builds up quietly over time, regardless of season

Why Regular Skin Checks Matter in Any Season

The most important factor isn’t the weather—it’s your risk profile.

If you have:

  • A personal or family history of skin cancer

  • Fair skin or a history of sunburn

  • Many moles or solar keratoses

…then you should be checking your skin regularly, not just when the sun is shining.

Read our guide on who needs regular skin checks for practical advice based on current guidelines.

The Best Time for a Skin Check?

The best time is when you notice something new or changing—regardless of the season.

Skin cancer can develop at any time of year. Delaying checks until summer can result in late diagnoses, more invasive treatments, and increased anxiety.

Know what to look for by reading our resource on how to check your skin, and don’t hesitate to act.

Take-home message

Don’t let the calendar decide your health. If you see something on your skin that wasn’t there before, or you simply want peace of mind, get a skin check—any season, any time.

Skin Cancer Australia provides trusted, up-to-date resources to help you stay informed, stay alert, and stay protected.