Indians often view sunscreen as a cosmetic accessory, not a daily health necessity. However, studies and dermatologists argue that regular sunscreen use is a preventive measure against skin cancer and premature aging, highlighting the need for urgent change. The Nambour trial in Australia found that daily sunscreen use reduced squamous cell carcinoma and invasive melanoma by 40% and 73% over long-term follow-up. Daily application also slows visible photoaging, with a nested Nambour trial showing 24% less skin ageing among sunscreen users. In Canada, sunscreen is promoted as a means of preventing skin cancers, sunburn, and skin photoaging due to its ability to block ultraviolet radiation. UVA exposure is harmful and linked to skin cancers, with sunscreen reducing the risk.
However, in India, sunscreen is often misunderstood and underused, with brown or dark skin having a lower risk but often diagnosed late and aggressively. Dr. Deepali Bhardwaj warns that social media influencers are influencing women and girls when choosing skincare products, particularly sunscreens. She emphasizes that sunscreen should offer broad-spectrum protection, including physical and chemical blockers against UVA, UVB, HEVL, and blue light. Sunlight spectrum includes UV, visible, and infrared light, impacting skin health. Indian skin needs SPF 25 or above, applied using finger rule, 15 minutes before sun exposure, and reapplied every three hours.