"Ultraviolet rays from the sun can cause painful sunburns," said Lt. Cmdr. Tony S. Clinton, a dermatologist with the U.S. Naval Hospital Okinawa. "In addition, about 90 percent of skin cancers are caused by ultraviolet light from the sun. Repeated exposure over time will prematurely age your appearance by causing the skin to be more spotty, wrinkled and leathery-looking."

When spending long periods of time outside, wear sunscreen and protective clothing such as long-sleeved shirts and hats.

"If possible, avoid overexposure to the sun between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.," said Dr. Bert Griffith, the health promotion program manager for Marine Corps Community Services here.

"Children are especially prone to skin damage," he said. "Their skin is more fragile."

If an adult and a child are exposed to the same levels of sun for the same period of time the child is more likely to develop skin cancer, Griffith added. Sunburns with blisters should be seen by medical personnel.

"Don't break the blister," Griffith insisted. "Keep the area clean and disinfected."

The long term damage of sun exposure can show itself through changes in the skin.

A mole increases the risk of cancer because it is an abnormality in the skin, he said. If the mole changes shape, size or color, visit your primary care provider. They will investigate the change, and if it is a cause for concern, they will refer you to a dermatologist.

Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer, according to the American Cancer Society. The earlier it is caught the better the survival rate is.

Skin cancer is the most prevalent cancer among humans, Griffith said. "Everyone's at risk."