Which SPF is associated with the lowest rate of sunscreen use?

The association of SPF 15 with the lowest rate of sunscreen use can be attributed to a combination of public perception and awareness regarding sun protection. SPF, or Sun Protection Factor, indicates the level of protection offered against UVB rays, which are primarily responsible for causing sunburn and contribute to skin cancer risk.

SPF 15 is often viewed as a baseline level of protection most people might consider "good enough" for daily use, especially in casual sun exposure scenarios. However, it is generally less promoted and less understood than higher SPFs like 30 or 50, which tend to be marketed more aggressively due to consumer demand for greater protection. This marketing can lead consumers to gravitate toward higher SPFs, thinking they offer significantly better protection.

Additionally, there may be a misconception that lower SPF values are adequate for regular, everyday activities where sun exposure might not seem extreme. As a result, those who opt for SPF 15 might not feel the urgency or necessity to apply sunscreen as frequently, leading to a lower overall usage rate compared to those using higher SPFs. The tendency to underapply or infrequently reapply sunscreen can contribute to inadequate sun protection practices in this population.

In contrast, higher SPF levels like 30 or 50 are often