PCPC’s #WearSunscreen Campaign Spreads Sun Safety Awareness

On April 7, World Health Day, the Personal Care Products Council (PCPC) launched the #WearSunscreen campaign, a nationwide effort urging the public to protect their skin with sunscreen use every day.

Per the council, roughly half of Americans say they use sunscreen during the summer, and the #WearSunscreen campaign seeks to change that. No matter the weather, the season, or a person’s skin tone, living safely in the sun includes using sunscreen all year long, officials admonish.

Sunscreen Saves Lives

The Consumer Healthcare Products Association (CHPA) and the Health In Hand Foundation, together with PCPC, will raise awareness about skin cancer this spring and summer 2025, amplifying one urgent public health message: sunscreen saves lives.

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the US, with more than five million cases diagnosed each year – more than all other cancers combined. Melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, is also one of the most preventable. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, this year, an estimated 200,000 Americans will be diagnosed with melanoma. Even more concerning, an estimated 20 Americans die from melanoma every day.

“Sunscreen is one of the most reliable and accessible tools we have to reduce the risk of skin cancer,” said Dr. Jane Yoo, a board-certified dermatologist and dermatologic surgeon in New York City. “Just like brushing your teeth or clicking your seatbelt, wearing sunscreen should be a consistent part of your daily routine all year long. And the good news is – it works. Regular sunscreen use can cut your risk of developing squamous cell carcinoma in half and lower your melanoma risk by 40%.”

Proven Protection

FDA-regulated sunscreens – whether mineral or chemical – are proven to help prevent sunburn, premature skin aging and skin cancer when used as directed, officials say. Consumers can find a variety of sunscreen formulations on shelves, which include ingredients that have undergone rigorous scientific evaluation and oversight.

“Sunscreens have been used effectively for decades. Yet, recent data suggests that the number of new skin cancer cases is expected to increase in 2025. We know that proper and consistent use of sunscreen can help prevent the disease, which is why we’re proud to partner with CHPA, and the Health In Hand Foundation to raise awareness and encourage use of sunscreen,” said PCPC President and CEO Tom Myer.

Shifting Attitudes on Sunscreen Behavior

Using the hashtag #WearSunscreen, consumers are encouraged to post about their own sun safety habits, share why sunscreen matters to them and tag friends and family to keep the momentum going.

“We hope this campaign not only raises awareness, but also shifts behavior,” said Scott Melville, president & CEO at CHPA. “Our goal is for sunscreen to be seen not as a beach-day extra, but as an everyday essential, because that’s exactly what it is.”

The #WearSunscreen campaign aims to increase public awareness by sharing facts, free resources and advice from experts. Throughout the campaign, PCPC, CHPA and the Health In Hand Foundation are encouraging consumers to wear sunscreen and to help spread the word. The organizations are sharing content across print, broadcast and social media platforms and providing information and assets for other organizations and consumers to use, as well. The campaign partners are also working with influencers, advocacy groups, medical professionals, health policy leaders and retailers to amplify this message.