We all know that wearing a rash guard shirt and sunscreen are both terrific ways to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays and help prevent skin cancer, but some people may need to be extra vigilant if they have a family history of skin cancer.

A pair of studies recently released found that some types of skin cancer can be inherited.

One study found that if you have an identical twin with melanoma your risk of developing the disease is much higher than having a fraternal twin with this type of skin cancer. The other study found that if you have a sibling or parent with one of several different types of non-melanoma cancers that your skin cancer increased risk as well.

Even if you don’t have a family history of skin cancer you should still take precautions to protect your skin because you don’t want to be the first in your family to get it – so always wear a brimmed hat, UV protective clothing and   whenever you’re out in the sun.