US study finds low sunscreen use

May 9, 2015

Abstract

Background
Sunscreen is a common form of sun protection, but little is known about patterns of use.

Objective
We sought to assess patterns of sunscreen use on the face and other exposed skin among US adults.

Methods
Using cross-sectional data from the 2013 Summer Consumer Styles survey (N = 4033), we calculated descriptive statistics and adjusted risk ratios to identify characteristics associated with regular sunscreen use (always/most of the time when outside on a warm sunny day for ≥1 hour).

Results
Few adults regularly used sunscreen on the face (men: 18.1%, 95% confidence interval [CI] 15.8-20.6; women: 42.6%, 95% CI 39.5-46.7), other exposed skin (men: 19.9%, 95% CI 17.5-22.6; women: 34.4%, 95% CI 31.5-37.5), or both the face and other exposed skin (men: 14.3%, 95% CI 12.3-16.6; women: 29.9%, 95% CI 27.2-32.8). Regular use was associated with sun-sensitive skin, an annual household income ≥$60,000, and meeting aerobic activity guidelines (Ps < .05). Nearly 40% of users were unsure if their sunscreen provided broad-spectrum protection.

Limitations
Reliance on self-report and lack of information on sunscreen reapplication or other sun-safety practices are limitations.

Conclusion
Sunscreen use is low, especially among certain demographic groups. These findings can inform sun-safety interventions and the interpretation of surveillance data on sunscreen use.

Source:
Holman, DM, et al. Patterns of sunscreen use on the face and other exposed skin among US adults. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. In press.
http://www.jaad.org/article/S0190-9622(15)01352-3/abstract