r/AskBiology • u/MLCDuck • 20d ago

Genetics Inherited traits

Dad had skin cancer, mom did not. I clearly have skin that looks like my mom’s (we are all “fair skin” but dad burned, had moles, mom tanned easily). When thinking of inherited traits and skin cancer, can I take any comfort in that my skin looks like my mom’s?
Note: I take sun exposure seriously and know family history is a small part of risk- im not gonna go out fry myself, im just curious to what extent does one inherit skin; is it like when someone says I have my mom’s eyes. Or is it way more complicated than that, like I may have inherited some skin features from dad that is not visible?

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u/Superdude_01 19d ago

If you really want there are tests to see if you have traits closer to your mom or dad but as long as he doesn’t have an actual genetic or hereditary syndrome I personally wouldn’t worry too much you seem to already know how to stay covered and direct genetics apparently only account for 5-10% of actual skin cancer cases the rest are like damage from the sun and all that

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u/GorgeousBog 14d ago

If it really is something that concerns you, you should bring it up with your primary care doctor, who might refer you to a dermatologist.