Sunscreen
#WearSunscreen to protect yourself from skin cancer, sunburn and premature aging.
Overview
Sun protection and sunscreens are critical to preventing skin cancer and premature skin aging. These products help protect consumers from the harmful effects of the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. The best sunscreen is the one you will use again and again.
In the U.S., more people are diagnosed with skin cancer each year than all other cancers combined. Currently, less than 12 percent of U.S. adults use sunscreen daily. PCPC is dedicated to promoting the healthy lives and well-being of all.
Sunscreen FAQs
How much sunscreen should I apply?
People must apply enough sunscreen to cover all skin not covered by clothing, which is typically 1 ounce—or enough to fill a shot glass. Don’t forget your scalp, lips, feet, ears and neck.
How often should I apply sunscreen?
Apply sunscreen daily. People should reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating. UV rays are harmful every day and can affect anyone, regardless of skin tone or age. Protect your skin, even on cloudy or rainy days.
Does sunscreen expire?
Yes, sunscreen expires. Check your product label for the expiration date. When in doubt, throw it out.
What skin tones need sunscreen?
All individuals, regardless of complexion, are at risk of skin cancer. Everyone should wear sunscreen to protect from sunburn and premature aging.
Is SPF-30 better than SPF-15?
Many adults incorrectly believe that SPF 30 sunscreen offers twice as much protection as SPF 15 sunscreen. However, randomized trials have demonstrated that reducing sun exposure with broad-spectrum, high SPF sunscreen used as directed reduces sunburn and photoaging.
Myths vs. Facts: Sunscreen and Coral Reefs
A science‑based response to recent headlines about coral reef harm
MYTH 1: Coral reefs are continuously exposed to high levels of sunscreen ingredients.
Fact: Studies show that high levels of sunscreen ingredients in coastal/marine waters usually appear only close to swimmers and for short periods of time. As people move away or leave the water, levels drop quickly (Labille et al., 2020; Mitchelmore et al., 2025). These temporary increases do not automatically occur where coral reefs are located and do not result in continuous exposure to high levels of sunscreen ingredients.
MYTH 2: Wastewater treatment plants can’t remove sunscreen ingredients.
Fact: Sunscreen ingredients are typically removed during wastewater treatment through biodegradation or attachment to solids. For two ingredients often mentioned in headlines (oxybenzone and octinoxate), wastewater treatment plants remove more than 80% on average before the water is released, greatly reducing what reaches the environment (Burns et al., 2021; Burns et al., 2022).
MYTH 3: One‑quarter of applied sunscreen washes off when you swim.
Fact: This data was derived from an older lab study from 2008 that doesn’t provide any data to support the conclusion. Additionally, the study does not reflect accurate use of sunscreen, overestimating the application rate and total sunscreen mass applied. (Carrao et al., 2024; Federle et al., 2026). Newer research shows the amount that washes off depends on the product, the ingredient, and how it is applied (Saxe et al., 2021; Saxe et al., 2023). A recent study examining the wash-off of 22 ultraviolet filter (UVF) formulations found that 19 resulted in less than 10% UVF wash-off (Saxe et al., 2023).
MYTH 4: Sunscreen releases thousands of tons of ingredients into coral reefs every year.
Fact: These estimates are not based on real-world assumptions. Real‑world studies show people apply much less sunscreen, leading to much lower environmental release estimates (Carrao et al., 2024; Federle et al., 2026).
PCPC’s Commitment to Sun Safety
Sunscreen Regulations
Sunscreens in the U.S. are regulated by the FDA as over-the-counter drugs and must meet safety, effectiveness, and SPF performance standards through FDA-approved testing methods. PCPC provides feedback to the FDA on topics like safety testing and labeling requirements and works with standard-setting organizations to establish sunscreen testing methods.
SUNucate Program
PCPC supports the SUNucate program in collaboration with other organizations to raise awareness about sun protection and eliminate barriers to sunscreen and sun-protective clothing access. The SUNucate model legislation allows children to possess and use sunscreen at schools and camps without a physician’s note, and has been adopted in 26 states and Washington, D.C., with more states pending action.
Oxybenzone and Octinoxate Legislation in Hawaii
Hawaii’s legislation banning oxybenzone and octinoxate in sunscreens has raised concerns over the lack of scientific evidence linking sunscreen ingredients to coral reef decline, with other environmental factors like climate change and pollution identified as more significant contributors. PCPC emphasizes the importance of sound scientific research in policymaking to ensure consumer access to safe, effective sunscreens while protecting both public health and the environment
Related Links
Providing consumers with safe and effective products is the highest priority for us and our member companies. PCPC is committed to providing resources to the beauty industry to ensure members and consumers stay informed.
