Health and Wellness

January 13, 2026

#117: Sun Safety for Families: What Every Parent Needs to Know with Leah Koskinen

Melanoma survivor Leah Koskinen joins me to break down what every family needs to know about sun safety. We talk about the real risks behind sunburns and tanning, how to spot concerning moles early, and why year-round protection matters more than most people realize. Leah also shares practical, mom-friendly strategies for choosing sunscreen, using UPF clothing, and getting enough vitamin D without damaging your skin.

About this episode

What You’ll Learn

  • The true risks of melanoma and why early detection saves lives
  • How to spot suspicious moles using simple assessment tools
  • Why tanning is always DNA damage
  • How to use sunscreen and UPF clothing effectively
  • Ways to safely support vitamin D levels

About Leah Koskinen

Almost 7 years ago, at the age of 25, shortly after my son's first birthday, I was diagnosed with Stage III Melanoma. It was an event that completely shifted my perspective and changed the course of my life.Through my @‌makedermsure Instagram account and community work, my mission is to turn my story into purpose—to advocate for skin checks, to empower families through sun safety education, and to raise awareness about melanoma in a way that feels personal and actionable. I’m especially passionate about helping parents understand the importance of sun safety—not just for themselves, but for their children too.If sharing my journey helps even one person pause to check a mole, schedule a derm appointment, or apply sunscreen a little more often, then every part of this work has been worth it.

Shownotes

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Transcript