Cost Analysis of Sunscreens Targeted Towards Skin of Color

November 2024 | Volume 23 | Issue 11 | e181 | Copyright © November 2024


Published online October 2, 2024

doi:10.36849/JDD.8710e

Geetha Godwa MSa, Jacob Beer MDb

aTulane University School of Medicine, Department of Dermatology, New Orleans, LA
bDr. Philip Frost Department of Dermatology & Cutaneous Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL

Abstract
Skin cancer most commonly affects fair-skinned individuals1; however, it can appear in individuals of all skin tones. Photoprotective behaviors such as applying sunscreen should be practiced by all individuals regardless of skin tone. Herein, the authors discuss the cost and protection of popular sunscreens targeted towards patients with darker skin or skin of color (SOC), and suggest important considerations providers should take into account when advising about sunscreen recommendations for patients with skin of color.

J Drugs Dermatol. 2024;23(11):e181-e182. doi:10.36849/JDD.8710e

INTRODUCTION

Skin cancer is the most common cancer diagnosis and there are several preventative measures aimed at reducing its prevalence such as photoprotection.1 Photoprotective behaviors help prevent sunburns, skin cancer, and skin damage. However, individuals with skin of color (SOC) are less likely to use sunscreen due to misconceptions regarding its benefits and patients' susceptibilities to skin cancer and sunburns.2 Further, cosmetic elegance and cost have been described as deterrents for patients with darker skin when deciding to use sunscreen.3 Several studies have found that social media outlets and dermatologists recommend more expensive products to patients with SOC.4 This discussion aims to analyze the cost and SPF level of sunscreens marketed toward patients with darker skin.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Sunscreens were identified through a TikTok social media analysis following hashtags: "sunscreen for skin of color", and "sunscreen for dark skin." For each hashtag, the 10 most popular posts were selected, based on TikTok algorithms. Sixteen sunscreens were identified. Their price in U.S. Dollars, price per fluid ounce, and SPF were reported. Prices were obtained directly from the company’s website for eleven out of sixteen sunscreens. For the remaining four sunscreens that could not be purchased directly from the company's website (CeraVe Hydrating Sunscreen Face Sheer Tint, EleVen Unrivaled Sun Serum, Mele No Shade Sunscreen Oil, and Neutrogena Purescreen Mineral UV Tint, and Biore UV Aqua Rich), the price was obtained from online retailers such as Target, Amazon, Credo Beauty, and Walmart. The lowest price available from an online retailer was used for these four sunscreens.