Last updated: August 27, 2024
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The sun is a powerful force, and while it provides us with essential vitamin D, its UV rays can also damage our skin and increase risk of skin cancer. Unfortunately, a lot of misinformation about sunscreen is floating around, especially on social media. That's why Let's Talk Public Health is launching the #SunSafeNoShade campaign! We're here to bust myths, spread awareness, and help people stay safe in the sun year-round.
Why #SunSafeNoShade?
Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. [1] One in five Americans will develop skin cancer by the age of 70, and more than 2 people die of skin cancer in the U.S. every hour. [2] Sunscreen is one of the most effective ways to prevent skin cancer, but a lot of people avoid it due to misconceptions and misinformation.
#SunSafeNoShade Goals
Our overarching goal is to inspire people to prioritize sun protection. The #SunSafeNoShade campaign does this by using harm reduction strategies to meet people where they are. If someone isn't ready to use sunscreen, we provide alternative sun protection methods while addressing the attitudes and beliefs that are keeping them from wearing sunscreen in the first place. We know people don't always react well when you tell them that they're wrong. We try to correct the misinformation and myths in a playful way, minus the shade. With this campaign, we aim to:
- Increase the use of sunscreen: Encourage more people to incorporate sunscreen into their daily routines.
- Increase the use of alternative sun protection methods: Highlight alternative sun protection options beyond sunscreen, such as hats, clothing, and shade.
- Reduce the spread of sunscreen misinformation: Correct common misconceptions about sunscreen and sun safety.
Intended Audiences for #SunSafeNoShade
We identified four audience segments from the scientific and grey literature that have low rates of sunscreen use, and created assets to address the preferences, myths, and misconceptions that prevent them from wearing sunscreen.
- Gen Z & Young Adults: About 14% of adults under 35 think daily sunscreen use is more harmful to the skin than direct sun exposure, and 23% believe drinking water and staying hydrated prevents sunburn. [3]
- Black & African American People/People of Color/People with Darker Skin Tones: Black and brown people are less likely to wear sunscreen and more likely to have concerns about white cast compared to white people. [4,5] They are also more likely to die from skin cancer. [6]
- Men: Men are more likely to develop skin cancer than women but are less likely than women to use sunscreen–in part because they relate sunscreen use to femininity. [7,8]
- General Public: People use sunscreen most on hot, sunny days, but less on cloudy or partly cloudy days. [9] During the colder months, only 13% of people plan to use sun protection when outdoors. [10] A common preference that keeps them from wearing sunscreen is if it leaves a residue or if it is greasy. [11]
#SunSafeNoShade Social Media Toolkit
The #SunSafeNoShade campaign is designed to bust sunscreen-related myths and help people stay safe in the sun year-round. Help us keep everyone safe in the sun.
How To Use this Toolkit: To download an image, select "Download File" below that image. The sample copy in the right column can be copied and pasted for use across social media platforms. Alternatively, you can select the button below to download a .zip file with all the campaign assets.
- Share the assets: Share the social media images and copy below on your social media accounts.
- Use the hashtag: Use #SunSafeNoShade with your posts.
- Tag us: We don't want to miss a thing. You can also tag us on your posts (@letstalkpublichealth).
- Create your own: Are you hearing other myths and misconceptions that are keeping people from wearing sunscreen? Create your own memes. We'd love to see what you come up with!
How To Use this Toolkit: To download an image, select "Download File" below that image. The sample copy in the right column can be copied and pasted for use across social media platforms. Alternatively, you can select the button below to download a .zip file with all the campaign assets.
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So wearing sunscreen makes you look like an extra on the set of White Chicks? Try a new gel-based sunscreen for sun protection minus the white cast. #SunSafeNoShade
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So you don’t do skincare? If wearing sunscreen isn’t your vibe, try wearing high-UPF hats and clothing to protect your skin. #SunSafeNoShade
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So you think sunscreen is scary? If you’re worried sunscreen is more harmful than direct sun exposure, it’s not. Having 5 or more sunburns doubles your risk for melanoma (the deadliest form of skin cancer). Try covering your skin with UPF clothing, staying in the shade, or wearing a chemical-free mineral-based sunscreen. #SunSafeNoShade
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So you think staying hydrated will prevent you from getting a sunburn? It won’t. You still need sunscreen or UPF clothing to protect your skin if you’re not in the shade. #SunSafeNoShade
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So wearing sunscreen makes you feel greasy? Try a gel-based or mineral-based sunscreen for a lightweight, non-greasy feeling. #SunSafeNoShade
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So you think that the clouds are protecting you from the sun? They’re not. Up to 80% of the sun’s UV rays can pass through the clouds and reach the Earth's surface. You still need sunscreen or UPF clothing to protect your skin if you’re not in the shade. #SunSafeNoShade
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So you think just because we’re getting closer to winter weather, you don’t have to worry about the sun? Not true. On a sunny day, snow can reflect up to 90% of the sun's UV rays back up at you, giving you a double dose of radiation. You still need sunscreen and sunglasses for the exposed parts of your face. #SunSafeNoShade
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