More than a decade after having a melanoma removed, actor Michelle Monaghan continues to share her experience to encourage greater awareness about skin cancer and sun safety. In past interviews, she noted that daily sunscreen use wasn’t part of her routine before her diagnosis. By speaking openly, she hopes to help reduce stigma and clear up common misconceptions about sun protection. Here are a few key takeaways from her story.
Discovering She Had Melanoma
Monaghan recalls that it was her husband, an Australian familiar with the country’s high rates of skin cancer, who first noticed an unusual mole on her lower calf. After he encouraged her to have it checked, she visited a dermatologist for a biopsy.
The results confirmed melanoma. Fortunately, it was found early, and the mole along with a small margin of surrounding skin was removed. No further treatment was required.
Before this experience, Monaghan says she rarely used sunscreen and viewed it mainly as something to apply after getting a sunburn. She also shared that she spent long hours outdoors during childhood and visited tanning salons as a teen, habits she now recognizes placed her at higher risk.
What She Learned About Sun Protection
Monaghan says her diagnosis motivated her to take sun safety more seriously. Her routine now includes daily sunscreen, reapplying throughout the day, and wearing hats and UV-protective sunglasses. She also keeps regular dermatology check-ups on her calendar.
One of her biggest realizations was how common skin cancer is, and how little awareness many people have about everyday UV exposure. In her interviews, she highlighted that increased prevention and education can make a meaningful difference.
She also notes a common misconception: that sunscreen adds extra steps to a skincare routine. For her, choosing products that combine moisture, tint, and sun protection has made the process simpler.
Protection and Prevention
Monaghan has mentioned using a broad-spectrum sunscreen on her face as the final step in her skincare routine. For outdoor time with her children, she chooses a higher-SPF broad-spectrum sunscreen for her body and reapplies every two hours, especially when outside for extended periods.
Her message is clear: sun protection shouldn’t wait until damage appears. She encourages people to build sun-safe habits early and help children understand why sun care matters.
A Reminder for All of Us
Monaghan’s story is a useful reminder that anyone can be affected by skin cancer, regardless of age, gender, or skin tone. Sharing personal experiences—like hers—can help encourage conversations about daily sun safety, routine skin checks, and early detection.
You can read the full interview with Michelle Monaghan discussing her experience with melanoma here.
