The sunscreen myth that’s putting people at risk

If you’ve ever come home from a hike, or even a day at an outdoor mall, with a sunburn, you already know a few hard truths about sunscreen:

Sunscreen isn’t just for the beach.

Sunscreen should be applied 15 to 30 minutes before going outside.

Sunscreen needs to be reapplied every two hours—and immediately after swimming or sweating.

But even if you follow all these steps, one critical truth about sunscreen needs to be addressed—sunscreen alone is not enough.

Harmful UV exposure is linked to nearly 3 million new cases of skin cancer in the U.S. each year. In Orange County, rates of melanoma and other skin cancers exceed the national average, making prevention especially important for Southern Californians.

That’s why a more comprehensive approach is essential, says Dr. Steven Q. Wang, medical director of dermatologic oncology at Hoag Family Cancer Institute.

“When people think about protection against UV rays, they think about sunscreen,” Dr. Wang says. “But sunscreen is only one component of a comprehensive approach.”

Gear up for protection Sunscreen is not the only thing you should wear for protection.

“Hats, sunglasses and UV-protective clothing can make a significant difference,” Dr. Wang says. “Lightweight, long-sleeve shirts designed with UV protection are especially helpful.”

Seek shade—strategically Planning outdoor activities before 10 a.m. or after 4 p.m., when UV radiation is less intense, can lower your risk. But don’t let cloud cover give you a false sense of security.

“People assume cloudy days are safe, but UV rays still penetrate,” Dr. Wang says. “Avoidance remains the first line of defense.”

Don’t skip screening Early detection is just as important as prevention.

At Hoag, advanced screening technologies help clinicians detect skin cancer earlier and more accurately. Nationally, it can take dozens of biopsies to identify a single melanoma. Improving diagnostic precision not only supports early treatment but also helps reduce unnecessary procedures.

“If we can identify skin cancer earlier, when it’s most treatable, while avoiding unnecessary biopsies, that’s a meaningful step forward,” Dr. Wang says.

Talk to your physician about whether a skin check is appropriate for you.

Make sunscreen a daily habit The key is consistency. Slap on sunscreen before you leave the house every day, and the practice will become a habit.

“If you’re outside on a hot day or sweating, use a water-resistant SPF 50,” Dr. Wang says. “For everyday indoor activities, SPF 30 is typically sufficient.”

And remember sunscreen is important, but it’s not a shield on its own. Real protection comes from a layered approach, one that combines smart habits, the right gear, and regular screening to reduce risk over time.

Learn more about the Hoag Melanoma and Skin Cancer Program.