How many people wear sunscreen every day?

How does sunscreen use differ by age?

These percentages describe US adults who answered "always" for that specific outdoor situation. Adults who said they did not spend more than an hour outside on sunny days were excluded. The survey's "always" refers to a sunny outing, not a standing appointment with the bathroom mirror.1

Women reported consistent use more often than men in every age group. Men aged 18 to 29 had the lowest percentage among men, while women aged 45 to 64 had the highest among women. These are percentages of adults, not a worldwide headcount of people applying sunscreen each morning.1

Why should people wear sunscreen?

Sunscreen helps prevent skin cancer and slows skin aging. Sun exposure contributes to wrinkles and age spots, and sunburn increases the risk of skin cancer. UVA rays affect deeper skin layers; UVB rays damage the outer layers and cause sunburn. Protection matters on cloudy days as well as bright ones.234

Is it good to wear sunscreen every day?

Yes. Apply sunscreen every day before going outdoors, even for a short time, and keep using it during winter. Choose broad spectrum protection, SPF 30 or higher, and water resistance. A facial moisturizer with broad spectrum SPF 30 or higher is also an option; cover all skin not protected by clothing.235

SPF describes protection against UVB, while broad spectrum means protection against both UVA and UVB, because apparently one label term would be too merciful. On UK sunscreen labels, look for at least SPF 30 and at least four stars for UVA protection; UVA inside a circle indicates the EU standard.4

How to make daily sunscreen use count

1. 1Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before going outdoors. If you will be outside long enough to risk burning, apply again just before leaving.
2. 2Cover exposed skin, including your face, neck, ears, hands and feet. Adults covering the entire body should use around 6 to 8 teaspoons; applying too thinly reduces protection.
3. 3Reapply at least every two hours while outdoors and follow the package directions. Apply again after swimming, sweating or towel drying, including when using water resistant sunscreen.
4. 4Use shade and protective clothing as well. Sunscreen is not a reason to stay in the sun longer, and a wide brimmed hat helps protect the face, neck and ears.

Who needs extra care?

If sunscreen chemicals irritate your skin, try a mineral sunscreen containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. Stop using a product that stings or burns unless your dermatologist has specifically advised otherwise. Keep babies under six months out of direct sunlight and ask their clinician before using sunscreen. People of every skin tone can get skin cancer. Arrange a dermatologist appointment for a spot that changes, itches, bleeds or looks different from the others.2345