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Survey shows dermatologists agree on sunscreen recommendations, safety

A majority of dermatologists agree that FDA-approved sunscreens protect against skin cancer and photoaging, recommend the use of sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, and often use sunscreens with an SPF of at least 50, according to survey results published in JAMA Dermatology.

A survey was provided to U.S. dermatologists attending a national educational conference on Apr. 9, 2016. Of those attending, 156 participated and completed at least 92.9% of the survey.

Results of the survey showed that 96% consider FDA-approved sunscreens to be safe, 97% agreed that regular use of sunscreen helps lower the risk of skin cancer and 100% agreed that use of sunscreen reduces subsequent photoaging.

Ninety-nine percent recommend their family and friends use sunscreen and another 99% believe that their patients do not apply enough sunscreen. Ninety-seven percent said they were comfortable recommending sunscreens with an SPF of 50 or higher and 83.3% believe that high-SPF sunscreens provide an additional margin of safety.

On the topic of what they recommend to their patients, 99% specify an SPF level, 96% recommend broad-spectrum protection, 71% advise on cosmetic elegance and/or feel and 42% discuss photostability.

All of those surveyed responded that they personally choose a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 while spending time outdoors and 76% typically wear sunscreen more than half the time.

“As debate continues about optimizing the use of sunscreen, it is important to assess and understand dermatologists’ views as well as the recommendations they provide to patients,” the researchers wrote. “This study provides insights into these issues and has identified potential knowledge gaps and corresponding educational opportunities where existing recommendations can be reviewed to better align with actual dermatologic practices.” – by Talitha Bennett

Disclosure: Farberg and Rigel report serving as consultants for Johnson & Johnson. Please see the full study for the other researchers’ relevant financial disclosures.