Young people wearing more sunscreen, but still underestimating the sun

Children and young adults generally apply sunscreen more often than the average Dutch person, yet they still tend to get sunburned more frequently. Researchers at Maastricht University say this is because they often seek out the sun when it is strongest. The Dutch National Skin Foundation, which commissioned the study, concludes that young people still often underestimate the risk.

The researchers noted that children and young adults often lie on the beach during the sun’s peak hours, which are typically between noon and 3 p.m.

Over 2,500 people participated in the survey. More than one in four respondents aged 16 to 34 reported being severely sunburned on at least one occasion last summer. On average, 14 percent of all participants experienced severe sunburn. Among young people, 77 percent reported light sunburn, compared to 62 percent of the total group.

“Young people often apply sunscreen too thinly, so the protection factor is not achieved, and they have the misconception that applying sunscreen means they can stay in the sun indefinitely,” the foundation explained. Another issue is that they do not always reapply it after swimming or sweating.

In addition to using sunscreen, young people are advised to wear hats, sunglasses, or protective clothing on sunny days and to seek shaded areas during peak sunlight hours.

Getting sunburned increases the risk of skin cancer. Health organizations such as the RIVM emphasize that prevention from a young age is crucial for avoiding this.