Many Americans think of sunscreen for the beach, but fewer consider it for the drive there — and some are questioning if they should wear it at all. These trends, from a new national survey by the nonprofit Melanoma Research Alliance (MRA), highlight a central challenge in skin cancer prevention.

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the U.S. Nine in 10 skin cancers, including melanoma, are linked to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. While reducing UV exposure lowers this risk, behavior doesn’t always match awareness. The survey of 2,000 adults found that over 8 in 10 recognize that long hours in the sun contribute to melanoma, yet roughly one-quarter rarely or never use sunscreen outdoors.

People also overlook everyday exposure: light through a window, a short walk from a parking lot, or an hour in the bleachers. While a single sunburn is dangerous, cumulative exposure over time drives risk.

Misinformation and Regulation

Sunscreen is a proven prevention tool, but confusion persists. The survey revealed:

• 53% have seen claims that sunscreen ingredients are harmful.

• 59% are concerned about ingredients.

• 38% doubt sunscreen is safe and effective.

• Only about one-third understand the difference between sunscreen types.

Sunscreen works by absorbing or blocking UV radiation to prevent DNA damage. In the U.S., active ingredients undergo rigorous FDA review as over-the-counter drugs. This strict standard requires extensive testing, resulting in fewer approved UV filters than in Europe, where sunscreens are regulated as cosmetics. The FDA is currently evaluating new assessment methodologies, which could expand approved filters for U.S. consumers.

The Importance of Prevention

This confusion comes during a period of real progress in melanoma research. While melanoma remains the deadliest skin cancer — expected to claim over 8,500 American lives in 2026 — recent advances are improving outcomes for advanced disease. However, because approximately 50% of patients do not respond to current treatments, prevention and early detection remain critical.

 

The Great Sunscreen Debate New survey findings from the Melanoma Research Alliance show widespread misinformation about sunscreen may lead people to question or skip sun protection, increasing their risk for melanoma. Sunscreen Skepticism Is Prevalent Americans when asked if they've seen or heard clams suggesting sunscreen ingredients may be harmful to their health... Not sure 9% Yes, frequentiy 19% Yes, occasionally Insight! 53% of Americans say they've seen claims that sunscreen ingredients may be harmful. Protection Isn't Consistent When asked how often Americans wear sunscreen during everyday activities such as running errands, walking outside, or commuting, they said... Moral Otton Insight! Only 50% of Americans regularly use sunscreen outdoors and just 38% wear sunscreen during everyday activities. Confusion About Sunscreen Persists When asked what is the orimary difference between physical (mineral) and chemical sunscreens, Americans said... Additional Takeaways 67% do not recognize exposure - like driving - can ~6 in 10 59% of Americans about chemicals or ingredients 45% Said "Not Sure" Women are more likely than time outdoors (25% vs. 20%). Insight! Only 32% of American could correctly identify how mineral vs. chemical sunscreen works. Generation 2 is more likely may be hiding potential health risks (28% vs. 16%). Protect Yourself from Melanoma Sun exposure adds up over time, increasing your melanoma risk. You can reduce your risk by... • Using broad-spectrum sunscreen daily and reapplying often • Wearing protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses • Seeking shade, especially during the sun's mid-day peak • Protecting children, whose skin is particularly vulnerable to UV damage • Monitoring your skin every month • Understanding your specific risk factors, knowing your body well and tracking any skin changes, and seeing a dermatologist regularly Melanoma Research Alliance www.curemelanoma.org