Are Men Less Willing to Apply Sun Cream?
Exploring why men lag in sunscreen use and how skin cancer risks demand a change in habits for better protection.
Skin cancer remains a leading health concern, with men facing disproportionately higher risks and mortality rates compared to women. Despite widespread awareness campaigns, men consistently apply sunscreen less frequently than women, contributing to elevated incidences of melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers. This article delves into the evidence, exploring usage patterns, demographic factors, psychological barriers, and practical strategies to encourage better sun protection among men.
Skin Cancer Statistics: The Gender Gap
Men are more than twice as likely as women to develop skin cancer by age 65, highlighting a critical disparity in outcomes. In the UK, non-melanoma skin cancer sees approximately 88,500 new cases in men annually versus 67,500 in women, with male deaths twice as high at 600 compared to 310 for women. These figures underscore the urgency for targeted interventions.
Globally, patterns persist. A CDC report from 2020 revealed that only 12.3% of men aged 18 and older always use sunscreen during prolonged sun exposure, compared to 29.0% of women. Usage dips even lower among younger men aged 18–29 (8.2%), rising modestly to 13.6% in those 65 and older. In the US, national surveys indicate less than 15% of men regularly apply sunscreen to both face and body, versus 30% of women.
Sunscreen Usage Habits Among Men
A comprehensive survey of 705 US men aged 20–70 found that 83% do not use sunscreen daily, with only 38% applying it weekly. Common daily skincare routines favor basics like liquid soap or body wash (65%) and bar soap (47%), while moisturizer use stands at 32%. Sunscreen lags far behind, revealing a gap in preventive behaviors.
- Only 18% of men apply sunscreen to their face regularly, compared to 42% of women.
- 28% of Americans rarely or never use sunscreen, with men comprising 57% of non-users versus 41% women.
- Just 13.5% of US adults report daily sunscreen use, and 11% wear none at all.
These habits expose men to unnecessary UV damage, accelerating skin aging and cancer risk. Men often remove shirts during hot weather, increasing exposure on torsos, and hold outdoor jobs like construction or gardening that amplify daily UV doses.
Why Don’t Men Use Sunscreen More Often?
Several barriers hinder consistent use. Men perceive sunscreen as nonmasculine, messy, or inconvenient, influenced by marketing aimed predominantly at women. Product formulations can feel oily or greasy, deterring integration into routines.
Demographic factors play a role. Higher-income men ($100,000+ household) use sunscreen weekly or more often than those earning $40,000–$50,000 (OR 0.54, 95% CI: 0.33–0.88). White men and non-Hispanics apply it more frequently than Black, African American, or Hispanic counterparts. Age, sexual orientation, and region show weaker links.
| Demographic | Sunscreen Use (Weekly+) | Key Insight |
|---|---|---|
| Income >$100k | Higher | Reference group |
| Income $40-50k | Lower (OR 0.54) | Cost barrier possible |
| White/Other race | Higher | P=0.047 |
| Hispanic/Latino | Lower | P=0.015 |
Low perceived risk affects non-Hispanic Blacks and those who rarely burn, despite UV dangers across skin types.
Motivations That Could Change Behaviors
Despite low baseline use, men respond to targeted messaging. Top motivators include reducing skin cancer risk (82%) and anti-aging benefits (42%). Products matching skin types—non-oily, moisturizing lotions—facilitate adherence.
- Skin cancer prevention: Primary driver for 82% of men.
- Youthful appearance: Appeals to 42%.
- Family health narratives: Resonates with men and partners.
Education emphasizing men’s elevated lifetime risk—twice that of women by 65—paired with user-friendly products, could boost uptake.
Strategies to Encourage Sunscreen Use in Men
Addressing barriers requires multifaceted approaches. Develop matte, non-greasy sunscreens tailored for men’s thicker, oilier skin. Integrate SPF into daily products like aftershave or moisturizers, used weekly by 38% and 54% respectively.
Public health campaigns should use masculine imagery, focus on cancer prevention over aesthetics, and highlight family protection. Workplace programs for outdoor workers could distribute affordable SPF items.
Cost remains a hurdle; lower-income groups use less, suggesting subsidies or generic options. Dermatologists recommend broad-spectrum SPF 30+ reapplied every two hours, even on cloudy days when 59% skip it.
The Health Imperative: Beyond Habits
Skin cancer rates in men have not improved over two decades, demanding innovation. UV exposure causes 90% of non-melanoma cases and significant melanomas. Early detection via self-checks is vital, but prevention trumps treatment.
Men should adopt routines: apply SPF 15 minutes pre-exposure, seek shade 10am–4pm, wear protective clothing. Partners can reinforce habits through shared narratives.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why do men have higher skin cancer rates?
Men face greater lifetime UV exposure from outdoor activities, less sunscreen use, and biological factors like less melanin protection in some cases. Stats show twice the non-melanoma deaths.
How often should men apply sunscreen?
Daily for face/neck, SPF 30+ broad-spectrum, reapplied every 2 hours outdoors or after swimming/sweating. Even indoors near windows.
Do men need different sunscreen products?
Yes, non-oily, matte formulas suit thicker male skin. Integrate SPF into moisturizers or aftershaves for routine ease.
Is sunscreen use rising among men?
No significant improvement; 83% still skip daily use. Targeted campaigns needed.
What motivates men to start using sun cream?
Cancer risk reduction (82%) and anti-aging (42%). Masculine marketing helps.
Conclusion
Men’s reluctance to apply sun cream stems from perceptions, product issues, and demographics, but motivations exist for change. With higher skin cancer burdens, prioritizing prevention through education, innovation, and accessibility can save lives. Commit to daily SPF—your future skin depends on it.
References
- Men’s Attitudes and Behaviors About Skincare and Sunscreen Use Behaviors — Journal of Drugs in Dermatology. 2021-01-01. https://jddonline.com/articles/mens-attitudes-and-behaviors-about-skincare-and-sunscreen-use-behaviors-S1545961621P0088X/
- Men’s Attitudes and Behaviors About Skincare and Sunscreen Use — PubMed / J Drugs Dermatol. 2021-01. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33400407/
- Percentage of Adults Aged ≥18 Years Who Always Use Sunscreen — CDC / MMWR. 2022-06-03. https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/71/wr/mm7122a5.htm
- 5 Reasons Men Should Wear Sunscreen Daily — Cantabria Labs (UK health data reference). 2023. https://cantabrialabs.co.uk/blogs/skincare-guides/5-reasons-men-should-wear-sunscreen-daily
- 2023 Sunscreen Habits of Americans — Circana. 2023. https://www.circana.com/post/american-sunscreen-habits
- American Adults Not Using Sunscreen — National Cancer Institute (NCI). 2015-07-23. https://www.cancer.gov/news-events/cancer-currents-blog/2015/no-sunscreen
- 5 Secrets of Sunscreen Users in the U.S. — Skin Cancer Foundation. Recent (post-2020). https://www.skincancer.org/blog/5-secrets-of-sunscreen-users-in-the-u-s/
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