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Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen (Topical)

Sunblock, Sunscreen

Visual ViewRaw Data

Meta Information

ID:sunscreen
Name:Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen
Schema Version:1.5

Alternate Names

  • Sunblock
  • Sunscreen

Active Compound

Zinc Oxide, Titanium Dioxide, Avobenzone, Oxybenzone, Octinoxate, etc.

Intervention Type

lifestyle_practice

Delivery

Route:
topical_skin
Scope:
  • local

Is Skin Health

True

Regulatory Status

  • us:otc_drug
  • eu:cosmetic_product

Indication

Focus:
  • healthspan
  • disease_treatment
Description:
Prevention of ultraviolet (UV) radiation-induced skin aging (photoaging) and skin cancers (melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma).

Typical Protocol

  • Apply a liberal amount (approx. 1oz for the full body) to all exposed skin 15-30 minutes before sun exposure.
  • Reapply at least every two hours, and more frequently after swimming, sweating, or towel drying.
  • Use a product with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 30 or higher that offers broad-spectrum (UVA/UVB) protection.

Expected Cost Mean

Low Cost:
10
High Cost:
70
Cost Type:
monthly
Description:
Cost of consumer products; generally not covered by insurance.

Summary

Broad-spectrum sunscreen protects the skin by absorbing or reflecting harmful ultraviolet (UVA and UVB) radiation. This action prevents DNA mutations that can lead to cancer and mitigates the degradation of collagen and elastin, which is the primary cause of externally-driven skin aging (photoaging). Consistent use is the single most effective intervention for preserving the structural integrity and youthful function of the skin.

Purpose

Protects skin from UV radiation to prevent photoaging and cancer.

Card Summary

Protects skin from UV radiation by blocking or absorbing harmful rays, directly preventing the cellular damage that leads to photoaging, wrinkles, and skin cancer.

Drug Class

null

Drugs In Class

Empty Array

Impact

Score:
7.8
Justification:
Foundational for skin healthspan by preventing the primary driver of extrinsic skin aging.

Evidence

Grade:
A
Score:
9.5
Justification:
Multiple large-scale human RCTs and meta-analyses confirm efficacy against photoaging and skin cancers.

Safety

Score:
1.5
Justification:
Extremely safe for topical use; rare skin irritation or allergies are possible.

Flags

  • Some chemical filters (e.g., oxybenzone) are absorbed systemically, though currently deemed safe by regulatory bodies.
  • Mineral-based sunscreens (zinc oxide, titanium dioxide) are not absorbed and are preferred for sensitive skin.
  • Allergic contact dermatitis or acneiform eruptions can occur with certain formulations.
  • Must be broad-spectrum (UVA/UVB) and at least SPF 30 for effective protection.

Verdict

A foundational, non-negotiable practice for preserving long-term skin health.

Qualifier

topical

Created

2026-05-05T21:58:15.271519Z

Ai Model

Gemini 2.5 Pro (High)