From the Guidelines
Using sunscreen is crucial for skin protection as it reduces the risk of skin cancer and premature aging by blocking harmful UVA and UVB rays that damage DNA in skin cells. According to the most recent and highest quality study, 1, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends using broad-spectrum sunscreens with a sun-protection factor of 15 or greater to protect against both UV-A and UV-B radiation.
Importance of Sunscreen
The use of sunscreen is an important adjunct to other types of protection against UV exposure, as stated in 1. Sunscreens have been shown to be effective in reducing the incidence of actinic keratoses, the precursors to squamous cell carcinoma, and also in reducing squamous cell carcinoma itself, as demonstrated in 1.
Recommendations for Sunscreen Use
To be effective, sunscreens must be applied correctly, allowing them to dry before going outdoors and getting any UV exposure, and reapplied after leaving the water, sweating, or drying off with a towel, as recommended in 1. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has determined that, if used as directed, broad-spectrum sunscreens with a sun protection factor of 15 or greater protect against UV A and UV B radiation, and reduce the risk of skin cancer and early skin aging, as stated in 1.
Key Points for Sunscreen Application
- Apply sunscreen daily, even on cloudy days or when indoors near windows
- Use broad-spectrum protection with SPF 30 or higher
- Apply the proper amount (about a nickel-sized dollop for the face or one ounce/shot glass for the body)
- Emphasize often-missed areas like ears, neck, and backs of hands
- Reapply every two hours when outdoors or after swimming/sweating
- Choose sunscreens with different ingredients if adverse effects occur, as some individuals may be allergic to certain ingredients, as noted in 1.
By following these guidelines and using sunscreen correctly, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of skin cancer and premature aging, as supported by the evidence from 1 and 1.
From the Research
Importance of Sunscreen for Skin Protection
- Sunscreen plays a crucial role in protecting the skin from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which can cause photodamage, skin aging, and skin cancer 2, 3, 4, 5
- The use of sunscreen has been shown to reduce the formation of precancerous actinic keratoses (AK) lesions by 36% and has a dose-response relationship with AK formation 3
- Sunscreen containing avobenzone, titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, or encamsule should be used daily and frequently reapplied to ensure adequate protection 2
- Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are particularly recommended for guarding against the UVB spectrum 2
Benefits of Sunscreen Use
- Regular sunscreen use can reduce the incidence of melanomas, squamous cell carcinomas, nevi, and melanomas 3, 4
- Sunscreens also prevent photoimmunosuppression and signs of photoaging 4
- The clinical benefits of sunscreens have been demonstrated in randomized controlled trials, establishing their role in the prevention of skin cancer and photoaging 4
Proper Application and Education
- Sunscreen is generally under-applied, with only 25% of the recommended dose being used, compromising photoprotection 2
- Dosage guidelines recommend using more than half a teaspoon each on the head and neck area and each arm, and more than a teaspoon each on the anterior torso, posterior torso, and each leg 2
- Continued efforts in public education on the proper application of sunscreens and the practice of photoprotection in general are needed 4
- Healthcare professionals, including doctors and pharmacists, should be aware of the importance of sunscreen use and provide accurate information to the public 6