Dermatology Patients' Knowledge of Sunscreen Guidelines at a University Hospital in Saudi Arabia

The goal of this study is to assess the knowledge and attitude of dermatology patients regarding sunscreen use as recommended by the American Academy of Dermatology.

This was an observational cross-sectional study at a university hospital in Riyadh. Participants were asked to complete a questionnaire to measure their knowledge and attitude regarding sunscreen use. Results were analyzed using a chi-square test.

Most participants heard about sunscreen (93.4%) and had indicated previous sunscreen use (72%). Sunscreen use was higher among women and participants with a postgraduate education. Sunscreen knowledge was higher among women, participants with non-photosensitive disorders, and participants with Fitzpatrick I, II, and III skin types. A total of 80% knew the worst time for sun exposure, but only 20.5% of the participants knew that sunscreen should be applied daily throughout the year, and 13.5% knew the correct minimum recommended SPF. A total of 34% were aware of the minimum time allowed for sunscreen application before sun exposure, and 20% were aware of the longest period allowed between reapplications. Only 4.5% knew the proper amount of sunscreen to cover the entire body.

Our study revealed that most participants had heard of sunscreen, however their knowledge of the guidelines for sunscreen use was poor. Only 33% of the participants had received a recommendation for using sunscreen from their general practitioner or dermatologist. More comprehensive and directed efforts need to be made in counselling and educating these patients on proper sunscreen practice.