"...young adults respond better to anti-aging messages than anti-cancer messages regarding sun exposure..."

J Drugs Dermatol. 2013 Aug;12(8):952-3.

News, views, and reviews. Carrots before sticks: appealing to vanity promotes sun protection.

Bergstrom KG.

Abstract

Daily broad-spectrum sunscreen use is an important intervention to prevent squamous cell carcinoma and invasive melanoma. Now dermatologists can feel confident confirming that it prevents photoaging in middle aged adults as well. A new randomized trial from Australia confirms that consistent use of broad-spectrum sunscreen can slow photoaging in adults in as little as four years in middle-aged adults. Because young adults respond better to anti-aging messages than anti-cancer messages regarding sun exposure, this data may help motivate younger patients to avoid indoor tanning and pursue consistent sun protection. Visual examples of aging over time are particularly effective for teens and young adults.