How Inclusive Messaging Could Improve Skin Cancer Prevention

A recent segment of the Skin of Color Savvy podcast explored the importance of comprehensive photoprotection and culturally relevant public health messaging in reducing skin cancer risk among patients with skin of color. The discussion also highlighted emerging research areas that may help address persistent gaps in prevention and awareness.^1,2

Hosted by Rebecca Vasquez, MD, associate professor of dermatology at UT Southwestern Medical Center, the episode featured Jeanine Downie, MD, founder of Image Dermatology PC in Montclair, New Jersey; Henry Lim, MD, former chair of dermatology at Henry Ford Health; and Jane Yoo, MD, assistant clinical professor at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai.

The conversation centered on the idea that sunscreen should be viewed as only one component of a broader photoprotection strategy. Lim emphasized that clinicians should continue encouraging patients to spend time outdoors because of the physical and psychological benefits associated with outdoor activity. However, he argued that sun safety must be approached as a “total package” rather than relying exclusively on sunscreen use.

According to Lim, effective photoprotection includes seeking shade when possible, wearing photoprotective clothing, utilizing wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses, and applying broad-spectrum sunscreen to exposed skin. He also stressed the importance of educating both clinicians and patients about visible light protection, particularly for individuals with darker skin tones who may be more susceptible to pigmentation disorders. Lim noted that tinted sunscreens currently represent one of the best available options for visible light protection in the United States.

The discussion then shifted toward public education and outreach. Downie argued that skin cancer prevention campaigns have historically failed to adequately represent diverse populations, contributing to the misconception that skin cancer primarily affects lighter-skinned individuals. She called for greater inclusion of skin of color models in educational materials, public service campaigns, and patient-facing resources.

Downie pointed to the death of Bob Marley from acral lentiginous melanoma as a frequently cited example in discussions of skin cancer among Black patients. However, she emphasized that public health messaging should not focus exclusively on uncommon presentations. Instead, she advocated for educating patients about both atypical and more common forms of skin cancer that can occur across all skin tones. Downie also stressed that awareness campaigns should illustrate the real-world consequences of delayed diagnosis, noting that greater visibility and representation remain critical to improving outcomes.

Referencing advocacy efforts discussed earlier in the episode, Lim highlighted continued public education as a major priority moving forward. He also outlined several research areas that may improve photoprotection in the future, including the development of newer ultraviolet filters capable of providing enhanced protection against longer-wave UVA radiation, which plays an important role in hyperpigmentation and photoaging.

Beyond sunscreen filters, Lim expressed optimism about emerging research into “biologic photoprotection.” These approaches include antioxidants and other ingredients designed to suppress UV-induced skin changes rather than simply blocking ultraviolet radiation. He noted that while only a limited number of such agents are currently supported by strong evidence, ongoing research into topical and oral photoprotective compounds may eventually expand the options available for skin cancer prevention and skin health, particularly among patients with skin of color.

To learn more about SOCS’s programs and initiatives, visit Skin of Color Society.

Editor’s note: This episode was summarized with the help of AI tools.

Disclosures: Lim reported research funding to his institution from Incyte, L'Oréal, Pfizer, and PCORI; consulting relationships with ISDIN, Beiersdorf, Ferndale, L'Oréal, Eli Lilly, Zerigo Health, Skinosive, Kenvue, Cantabria Labs, and NAOS; and speaking engagements for La Roche-Posay, Cantabria Labs, Pierre Fabre, NAOS, Uriage, Pfizer, and ISDIN. Downie reported consulting, research, and/or speaking relationships with Johnson & Johnson, Allergan, SkinMedica, Merz, Pfizer, Galderma, Lifes2Good, Perigee Medical, Nutrafol, Valeant, Intendis (Bayer), BTL, Restorsea, Procter & Gamble, Theraplex, ThermiRF, Revance, Neothetics, Evidera, Alphaeon, Ranbaxy, Fibrocell, BioPharmX, and Exeltis, and is a shareholder in RegimenMD. Yoo reported serving as a consultant for Amorepacific US Inc. Vasquez reported no relevant disclosures.

References

1. Chao LX, Sheu SL, Kundu RV, et al. Identifying gaps in consumer knowledge about sunscreen. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2017 Dec;77(6):1172-1173.e2. doi: 10.1016/j.jaad.2017.06.151. Epub 2017 Aug 29. PMID: 28864307.

2. Vasquez R, Lim H, Yoo J, Downie J. Skin of Color Savvy: The Sunscreen Gap—Cancer Prevention in Skin of Color. HCPLive. May 26, 2026. Accessed June 8, 2026. https://www.hcplive.com/view/skin-of-color-savvy-sunscreen-gap-cancer-prevention-skin-color.