Abstract
Background: Skin protection is an important issue that is neglected by a large sector of the community. Using sunscreens protects skin from harmful sun rays and subsequent bums. It is important to determine the level of community's awareness about sunscreen role in skin protection to be design the appropriate health education program. This study aimed to assess the level of awareness of residents in Al-jouf region, Saudi Arabia toward sunscreens and define the factors that have an impact on adoption of sun protection practices. Methodology: This is a questionnaire-based cross-sectional study. An online questionnaire was distributed among residents in Al-Jouf provinces. Results: About half of the studied population use sunscreen, particularly the females, before exposing to the sun. More than half of participants use sunscreen to prevent sunburn (62.8%) and to avoid dark skin spots (71.6%). However, many participants did not use sunscreens because of their high cost and inconvenience. One-third of sunscreen users applied it when exposed to the sun only (34.1%), and during summer (96.9%). Moreover, 53.6% of our study population use less than a quarter of a teaspoon and apply it to their face and hand only (47.5%). Regarding their opinion on the reapplication of sunscreen, 28.4% of participants reapply for sunscreens after taking a shower while 55.9% do not reapply it. Conclusion: Participants' attitudes toward sunscreen use were variable. Improper use of sunscreen was recognized and this will need awareness programs on the effective use of sunscreen.