Sunscreen access

Dermatologists, who are on the front lines fighting skin cancer, advocate for patient and public access to safe and effective sunscreen products. Sunscreen products have been proven to protect against skin cancer, skin aging, and sunburn.

The Academy supports evidence-based laws and regulations at the federal and state levels that ensure access to safe and effective sunscreens as part of a comprehensive sun protection plan.

Federal legislation

At the congressional level, the Academy calls on federal lawmakers to support patient access to sunscreen by:

• Joining the Congressional Skin Cancer Caucus

• Monitoring and encouraging the FDA to communicate the importance of sunscreens as part of a comprehensive sun protection plan

State access laws

The Academy supports state- and school district-wide policies that allow students to use sunscreen and sun protective clothing during the school day and at summer camps without physician authorization.

State, local bans

As some state and local governments move to ban certain sunscreen products due to concerns around their potentially harmful side effects on coral reefs, the Academy has served as an educational resource to help guide the legislative debate, ensuring that lawmakers understand the known risks associated with unprotected sun exposure and calling for more research on environmental impacts.

Public outreach

The Academy also promotes sun safe behavior to the public and patients, through our Sun Protection Resource Center, social media accounts, and more. In addition, the Academy helps connect news media with dermatology experts who understand the importance of sun protection.