Dermatology HCPs overwhelmingly back practical sunscreens — social media blamed for most misinformation
A cross‑sectional online survey of 723 U.S. dermatology healthcare professionals via the Dermsquared platform probed perceptions of sunscreen formulation, usage, safety, efficacy, misinformation sources, and access. Nearly all respondents agreed that sunscreen lowers skin‑cancer risk (99%) and that “the best sunscreen is the one patients will consistently use” (98%); dermatologists were significantly more likely than physician assistants and nurse practitioners to endorse that adherence principle (P<0.05). Respondents also overwhelmingly felt that sunscreens with better application and aesthetic properties are more likely to be used (99%). While most HCPs judged both chemical/organic and physical/inorganic actives to be safe and effective, a larger proportion believed chemical actives provide a superior application experience. Social media and influencers were identified as the primary source of patient misinformation about sunscreens.
Clinical takeaway for the dermatologist: emphasize patient‑centered selection (cosmetically acceptable formulations to maximize adherence), be proactive in countering social‑media misinformation during counseling, and reassure patients that both chemical and physical sunscreens are considered safe and effective while tailoring recommendations to individual preferences and tolerability.
J Drugs Dermatol. 2025;24(11):1113-1120. doi:10.36849/JDD.9366
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