Dermatologist Highlights Five Key Facts About Sunscreen Use

Skin cancer remains the most common form of cancer in the United States, with one in five Americans projected to develop it by age 70. Despite the risks, a 2024 survey of 2,200 adults found that only 17 percent reported using sunscreen daily. In an interview with CNBC Make It, Dr. Adam Friedman, professor and chair of dermatology at George Washington University’s School of Medicine and Health Sciences, emphasized that sunscreen should be viewed as essential to daily health routines, comparable to brushing teeth.

Friedman stressed the importance of consistent use, noting, “I want people to think about sunscreen use like they would brushing their teeth. Just like we’re protecting our teeth, we need to protect our skin, which is our largest organ.” He explained that areas often overlooked include the lips, eyelids, and ears, which are highly vulnerable to UV damage.

Woman applying sunscreen | Source: Pexels

He also clarified that while SPF 30 blocks about 97 percent of UVB rays and SPF 50 about 98 percent, the difference in protection becomes significant because most people fail to apply enough sunscreen. “That’s why I do push for higher SPFs,” he said, adding there is little difference in feel or cost between lower and higher SPFs.

On reapplication, Friedman acknowledged challenges but advised aiming to reapply every two hours when outdoors, particularly after swimming or sweating. “Technically, you should be reapplying every two hours. I say technically, because I’m a realist, and who’s going to actually do that. Do the best you can,” he said.

Finally, he stressed sunscreen use in every season, not just summer. “Sun protection is a year-round thing,” Friedman noted, pointing out that cumulative damage often occurs in colder months when protection is neglected. He highlighted dermatoporosis—fragile, easily bruised skin—as a condition linked to chronic sun exposure, especially in unprotected areas like forearms.