Can Sunscreen Prevent Skin Cancer?
As the sun shines intensely during the summer months, awareness about the importance of using sunscreen to prevent skin cancer becomes essential, especially considering the high sun exposure typical of this time of year.
Skin cancers are the most diagnosed worldwide. According to estimates from the World Health Organization (WHO), in 2022, approximately 330,000 new melanoma cases were identified globally, leading to almost 60,000 deaths due to the condition. In most regions, melanoma occurs more frequently in men than in women.
It is well established that exposure to sunlight and ultraviolet (UV) radiation is linked to 80-90% of skin cancer cases. Therefore, the use of sunscreen – which blocks UV radiation – is promoted as an essential method to prevent skin cancer, as well as sunburn and photoaging.
Who Should Use Sunscreen?
Regular use of sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher is recommended for everyone, regardless of skin type.
However, the risk of skin cancer is higher in fair-skinned individuals than in those with darker skin.
Additionally, extra caution should be taken in the following cases:
✔ People with a family history of skin cancer
✔ Individuals with a weakened immune system
✔ People who always burn and never tan when exposed to the sun
A study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology indicated that SPF 100+ sunscreen proved to be significantly more effective at preventing sunburn than SPF 50+, both at the beach and during high-altitude skiing.
An important recommendation: infants under six months should not use sunscreen. Instead, direct sun exposure should be avoided, and creams and colognes should not be used, as their skin may develop allergic reactions or suffer burns.
How to Apply Sunscreen Correctly?
Research shows that people use less sunscreen than recommended, applying only 20% to 50% of the ideal amount.
Using a higher SPF can compensate for this insufficient application. For example, an SPF 50 sunscreen may act as SPF 25 when applied in a smaller amount.
Tips for Proper Application:
✔ Apply a generous amount – about a palm-sized portion to cover arms, legs, face, and neck.
✔ Don’t forget ears, hands, and feet.
✔ Reapply every 2 hours, especially after excessive sweating, swimming, or contact with clothing and sand.
✔ Prefer cream-based sunscreens over sprays. Spray sunscreen can be dispersed by wind, leading to uneven application.
Other Ways to Protect Yourself from the Sun
Sunscreen should not be the only form of protection. Other measures can reinforce sun protection:
✔ Wearing wide-brimmed hats
✔ Sunglasses with UV protection
✔ Seeking shade when the UV index is above 3
✔ Wearing long-sleeved clothing and thick fabrics like polyester and cotton
There are clothing items with UV protection, which have ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) up to 50. However, keep in mind that all clothing loses some protection if wet or overly stretched.
The Relationship Between Sunscreen and Skin Cancer
Studies show strong scientific evidence that regular sunscreen use significantly reduces the risk of melanoma and other types of skin cancer.
The current recommendation is to use broad-spectrum sunscreens with SPF 30 or higher for everyone over six months of age.
Additionally, it is essential to combine multiple sun protection methods, such as avoiding intense sun exposure between 10 AM and 4 PM, seeking shade, and wearing appropriate clothing.
Conclusion
The relationship between ultraviolet radiation exposure and skin cancer is undeniable.
Prevention remains the best strategy to reduce the risks of developing skin tumors.
Adopting healthy habits, such as proper sunscreen use, protective clothing, and seeking shade, is essential for maintaining skin health.
Protect yourself and encourage others to do the same!
References
- Kohli I, Nicholson CL, Williams JD, et al. Greater efficacy of SPF 100+ sunscreen compared with SPF 50+ in sunburn prevention during 5 consecutive days of sunlight exposure: A randomized, double-blind clinical trial. J Am Acad Dermatol 2020;82:869–77.
- Sander M, Sander M, Burbidge T, Beecker J. The efficacy and safety of sunscreen use for the prevention of skin cancer. CMAJ. 2020 Dec 14;192(50):E1802-E1808. doi: 10.1503/cmaj.201085.