Sunscreen Use on the Dorsal Hands at the Beach

Abstract

Background. Since skin of the dorsal hands is a known site for the development of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma, an epidemiologic investigation was needed to determine if beachgoers apply sunscreen to the dorsal aspect of their hands as frequently as they apply it to other skin sites. Aim. The aim of the current study was to compare the use of sunscreen on the dorsal hands to other areas of the body during subtropical late spring and summer sunlight exposure at the beach. Materials and Methods. A cross-sectional survey from a convenience sample of beachgoers was designed to evaluate respondent understanding and protective measures concerning skin cancer on the dorsal hands in an environment with high natural UVR exposure. Results. A total of 214 surveys were completed and analyzed. Less than half of subjects (105, 49%) applied sunscreen to their dorsal hands. Women applied sunscreen to the dorsal hands more than men (55% women versus 40% men, P = 0.04). Higher Fitzpatrick Skin Type respondents were less likely to protect their dorsal hands from ultraviolet radiation (P = 0.001). Conclusions. More public education focused on dorsal hand protection from ultraviolet radiation damage is necessary to reduce the risk for squamous cell carcinomas of the hands.

Knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors regarding sun protection, effects of the sun, and skin cancer among Turkish high school students and teachers

“…1 Although many factors such as advanced age, low Fitzpatrick skin types, and male gender have been associated with an increased risk of developing skin cancer, unprotected UVR exposure has been reported as the single most important environmental risk factor. 2 Many epidemiological studies in the literature suggest that UVR from sun exposure and sunburns at early ages are associated with skin cancers in adulthood. 3e5 It was reported that a history of sunburn in early life almost doubles the risk of developing melanoma in adulthood.…”

Factors that influence sunscreen application thickness and potential preservative exposure

“…Studies of demographic and behavioral factors relating to sunscreen application have identified groups most at risk for sun‐related damage. Several studies have shown that women are more likely to use sunscreen than men and that men are less likely to apply sunscreen to all sunlight‐exposed areas . In addition, older individuals (>60 years) are more likely to apply sunscreen .…”

A new sunscreen application technique to protect more efficiently from ultraviolet radiation

“…Individuals who have outdoor lifestyles, live in sunny climates, and have fair phototypes will experience the greatest degree of photoaging . Face, neck, legs, and the dorsal hands get the most sunlight exposure and are hence exposed to an increased risk of photodamage such as skin cancer and photoaging .…”

“…Nonmelanoma skin cancers are the most common types of cancer in the white population and represent a serious health burden in sun‐exposed populations . Regular sunscreen use, together with avoiding sun exposure during the sun's zenith and wearing clothes, is one of the most important actions to prevent skin cancer and other photodamages .…”

“…However, to achieve the degree of photoprotection mentioned on the label, at least 2 mg/cm 2 of the sunscreen must be applied . Unfortunately, studies have shown that users apply much less than this (on average 0.5 mg/cm 2 ) when intentionally exposing themselves to the sun . The reasons for this include a reported sticky/greasy sensation and lack of knowledge on how to apply sunscreen correctly .…”