Video: Six common myths about skin cancer

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It's a myth that only fair-skinned people get skin cancer.

"Darker skin types can be under diagnosed for skin cancer," said Dr. Michelle Pelle, a dermatologist at Scripps Mercy Hospital.

In dark-skinned people, it often shows up under fingernails or on the soles of feet. Another myth is that only burns lead to skin cancer.

"No tan is safe. Every time you're sun exposed, you're damaging DNA," said Dr. Pelle.

And what about lip gloss? A new study shows the shine may actually attract UV rays and increase your risk.

"The lip is a very sensitive area of skin and tends to get burned more frequently," said Dr. Dennis L. Rousseau, a surgical oncologist.

Tanning beds are not safer. Twenty minutes is equal to about 4 hours in the sun.

Another myth is that your clothes protect against the sun and a T-shirt that has an SPF of six to eight is not really adequate.

So apply sunscreen even under clothes. And use enough - about a shotglass-full for the entire body. Check yourself monthly for suspicious moles.

A normal mole looks different than melanoma.

Most normal moles have a uniform color, have fairly regular borders and are smaller than 6 millimeters in size.

One last myth is that skin cancer is in your genes. Research shows less than 10 percent of melanomas are genetic.

Recent research has shown women with a vitamin D deficiency are more likely to develop breast cancer. Although vitamin D can be obtained from the sun, experts say you can also get it through proper nutrition, which is safer.