Girl applying sunscreen We have all heard about the dangers of the sun, but did you know skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States? One in five Americans will be diagnosed with skin cancer, and this number is growing due to increased ultraviolet exposure from the sun and tanning beds. Still not convinced you need to lather up before your next outing?The ozone acts as a sun shield for the earth by absorbing harmful UVB rays before they reach the ground. As the ozone layer depletes, your body needs added protection from these harmful rays.