What is the most often heard reason(s) for not using sunscreen in your patients?
Nearly three-quarters (72%) of dermatologists reported that patients do not use sunscreen because of cosmetic acceptance. Almost one-third (31%) said their patients prefer “natural” products. Price was a factor for 26%. Fewer dermatologists indicated risk of environmental damage (14%), allergy (12%), cancer induction (5%), and hormonal alteration (5%) were reasons patients are not compliant.
Expert Commentary
Provided by Shari R. Lipner, MD, PhD (New York, New York)
Cosmetic acceptance is paramount for patient compliance for sunscreen application. These results from our Editorial Board echo a study on sunscreen product performance and other determinants of consumer preferences, which cited “cosmetic elegance” as an important factor in choosing sunscreens (Xu et al). Dermatologists must stress to patients to find a sunscreen that they find acceptable in terms of vehicle and price to increase compliance.
Next page: Sunscreens in pregnant women