Patient preferences for facial sunscreens: a split-face, randomized, blinded trial.

BACKGROUND

Sunscreen use is a widely accepted method of primary prevention against skin cancer, sunburn, and photoaging. However, many people do not routinely apply sunscreen because they find application objectionable.

OBJECTIVE

To determine which types of sunscreen subjects are willing to use on more than one occasion.

METHODS

A split-face, randomized, blinded trial of commercially available sunscreens was performed among 139 community members in Rochester, Minnesota.

RESULTS

Subjects were significantly more likely to indicate that they would use alcohol-based spray sunscreen again than two of the seven sunscreens assessed (P < .05). This sunscreen was endorsed as being less greasy, less likely to leave a film, and less likely to leave them feeling hot and sweaty than at least two of the other sunscreens.

LIMITATIONS: Only a representative selection of commonly available sunscreens was tested.

CONCLUSION

An alcohol-based spray formulation of sunscreen was rated more favorable. Recommendations to use alcohol-based spray sunscreens may increase patient compliance.