Long-Term Health Tips for Melanoma Survivors

Surviving melanoma changes how you plan your days. You want simple, practical steps that lower risk, catch problems early, and help you feel your best. These tips focus on what you can do now—every day and at medical visits—to protect your health and reduce anxiety about recurrence.

Skin protection and monitoring

Protecting your skin is the single most effective habit. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen SPF 30 or higher every day on exposed skin, even when it’s cloudy. Reapply every two hours if you’re outside, and immediately after swimming or heavy sweating. Wear a wide-brim hat, UV-blocking sunglasses, and long sleeves or UPF clothing when possible. Avoid tanning beds completely.

Check your skin monthly. Stand in front of a mirror with good light and photograph any spots that look new or different. Look for changes in size, color, shape, or texture, and note any sore that doesn’t heal. If you find anything concerning, contact your dermatologist right away—don’t wait for your next scheduled visit.

Keep a regular follow-up schedule with your doctor. For most survivors this means skin checks every 3 to 12 months depending on stage and risk. If you had lymph node involvement or advanced disease, ask your oncologist about imaging or specialist visits and what symptoms should prompt an urgent call.

Daily habits and overall wellness

Move your body. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity a week—walking, cycling, yoga—or strength work twice a week. Exercise helps immune function, mood, and weight control. Keep a healthy weight; obesity can affect cancer risk and recovery.

Eat for healing. Focus on whole foods: vegetables, fruit, lean protein, healthy fats, and whole grains. Cut back on processed foods and limit alcohol—excess alcohol raises cancer risk. If you take supplements, tell your doctor; some can interfere with treatments or tests.

Watch for side effects if you had immunotherapy or targeted drugs. New fatigue, rash, joint pain, cough, belly pain, or unexplained changes in mood can be treatment-related and need quick review. Keep a symptom log and bring it to appointments.

Protect your mental health. Facing cancer changes your outlook. Join a support group, try brief counseling, or connect with other survivors online. Practical tools—sleep routines, short daily walks, and breathing exercises—help lower stress. Ask your care team about local resources.

Small, consistent steps matter: sunscreen every day, monthly skin checks, regular doctor visits, steady movement, and honest conversations about symptoms and feelings. These actions help you stay ahead of problems and live well after melanoma.