Protecting skin, preventing harm: May is suncreen protection awareness month

Each May, health advocates and dermatologists across the country observe Sunscreen Protection Awareness Month—a vital campaign focused on encouraging daily sun protection habits and educating the public about the serious risks of ultraviolet (UV) radiation. While the arrival of warmer weather often draws people outdoors, it also brings heightened exposure to the sun’s harmful rays, making sun safety a top public health concern.

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, with more than 5 million cases diagnosed annually, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. Of these, basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma are the most frequently occurring types, while melanoma, though less common, is far more dangerous and potentially deadly. The American Academy of Dermatology estimates that one in five Americans will develop skin cancer by the age of 70.

One of the most effective and accessible methods of prevention is regular use of sunscreen. Despite this, surveys have consistently shown that a significant portion of the population either uses sunscreen irregularly or not at all. Many individuals mistakenly associate sunscreen use solely with beach outings or summer vacations, overlooking the need for protection during everyday activities such as driving, walking the dog, or running errands.

Ultraviolet radiation from the sun is classified into UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays penetrate deep into the skin and are primarily responsible for premature aging and wrinkles, while UVB rays are more closely linked to sunburns and direct DNA damage, leading to an increased risk of skin cancer. Both types contribute to long-term skin damage and can penetrate through clouds and glass, making year-round protection essential.

The strength of UV radiation depends on several factors, including altitude, latitude, time of year, and time of day. UV intensity is highest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., particularly in late spring and summer. Reflective surfaces such as water, sand, and concrete can intensify exposure by reflecting rays back onto the skin, increasing the risk even in shaded areas.

Sunscreens work by either absorbing, scattering, or reflecting UV rays before they can penetrate the skin. Products are labeled with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF), which indicates how long the sunscreen will protect against UVB rays. For example, SPF 30 means it would take 30 times longer for unprotected skin to burn than with no sunscreen at all.

Dermatologists generally recommend using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, applied 15 minutes before sun exposure and reapplied every two hours, or more often if swimming or sweating. Most adults need about one ounce (a shot glass full) of sunscreen to adequately cover their body. Despite these guidelines, research suggests that most people apply only 25–50% of the recommended amount.

A persistent misconception is that individuals with darker skin tones do not need sunscreen. While melanin does offer some natural protection, it does not eliminate the risk of skin damage or skin cancer. In fact, skin cancers in individuals with darker skin are often diagnosed at later stages, leading to worse outcomes.

Another common misunderstanding is that sunscreen is only needed on sunny days. In reality, up to 80% of UV rays can pass through clouds, meaning that overcast days can still result in significant UV exposure. Snow and high altitudes further amplify the need for sun protection due to increased reflectivity and thinner atmospheric filtering of UV radiation.

Beyond cancer prevention, regular use of sunscreen helps prevent photoaging, including wrinkles, sagging, and sun spots. UV damage is the leading cause of premature aging of the skin, and consistent sunscreen use has been shown to significantly slow the appearance of visible aging.

Additionally, by reducing the incidence of actinic keratoses—precancerous skin lesions caused by sun damage—sunscreen helps cut down on the need for future dermatological treatments and biopsies, making it not just a health measure but a cost-saving one as well.

Despite the known risks of UV exposure, surveys indicate that less than 30% of men and 43% of women in the United States regularly use sunscreen on their face and other exposed areas. Among teenagers and young adults, rates are even lower, which is concerning given that just one blistering sunburn in childhood or adolescence can double the risk of developing melanoma later in life.

Public health campaigns during Sunscreen Protection Awareness Month aim to close this knowledge gap by promoting consistent, daily sunscreen use and encouraging the public to view sun protection as part of a larger strategy for long-term health.

Effective skin protection extends beyond sunscreen. Experts recommend a multi-pronged approach: seeking shade, wearing protective clothing and wide-brimmed hats, using UV-blocking sunglasses, and avoiding tanning beds. Educating children early about these habits is key to building lifelong sun-safe behaviors.

As May marks the unofficial start of summer, Sunscreen Protection Awareness Month serves as a timely reminder that sun safety is not seasonal—it’s essential. With daily protection and informed choices, the vast majority of skin cancers are preventable. The month-long observance offers an opportunity to reset public understanding, challenge misconceptions, and prioritize the simple yet powerful habit of applying sunscreen.