Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States, with millions of new cases diagnosed each year.

Given the prevalence of this disease, prevention strategies are critical.

One of the most widely recommended methods for protecting the skin from cancer is the use of sunscreen. But can sunscreen actually prevent skin cancer?

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which regulates sunscreens, provides valuable information on this topic to clarify its role in skin cancer prevention.

The FDA has long emphasized the importance of using sunscreen as part of a comprehensive sun protection strategy. Sunscreens are formulated to absorb or reflect the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) radiation, a major risk factor for skin cancer.

UV radiation is classified into two types: UVA and UVB. UVA rays infiltrate deep into the skin and contribute to premature aging and the development of certain types of skin cancer, while UVB rays are primarily responsible for causing sunburn and play a key role in the development of most skin cancers.

Sunscreen products are designed to offer varying levels of protection against both UVA and UVB radiation, as indicated by the Sun Protection Factor (SPF) on the label.

SPF primarily measures the level of protection against UVB rays, but broad-spectrum sunscreens also offer protection against UVA rays. According to the FDA, using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher can reduce the risk of skin cancer when combined with other protective measures.

While the FDA recognizes that sunscreen is a valuable tool in the fight against skin cancer, it is not a foolproof solution on its own.

The agency advises that sunscreen should be used in conjunction with other protective measures, such as wearing protective clothing, seeking shade, and avoiding the sun during peak hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).

This multi-faceted approach is essential because no sunscreen can block 100% of UV radiation, and improper use, such as applying too little or failing to reapply frequently, can significantly reduce its effectiveness.

One of the key messages from the FDA is the importance of choosing the right sunscreen. The agency recommends selecting a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher for daily use, and an SPF of 30 or higher for extended outdoor activities.

It’s also crucial to apply sunscreen generously and evenly to all exposed skin and to reapply it at least every two hours, or more often if swimming or sweating.

The FDA also addresses concerns about the safety of sunscreen ingredients. In recent years, there has been increased scrutiny over the potential health risks associated with certain chemical ingredients in sunscreens, such as oxybenzone and octinoxate.

The FDA has conducted extensive research on these ingredients and continues to monitor their safety. While some studies have raised questions about their potential effects on human health and the environment, the FDA maintains that the benefits of using sunscreen to prevent skin cancer far outweigh the potential risks.

The agency also encourages consumers who are concerned about chemical sunscreens to consider using mineral-based sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which are generally recognized as safe and effective.

Moreover, the FDA underscores the importance of educating the public about the limitations of sunscreen. Many people mistakenly believe that applying sunscreen allows them to stay in the sun indefinitely without risk.

However, the FDA cautions that even with proper sunscreen use, extended sun exposure still increases the risk of skin cancer.