It has been repeatedly suggested that people should apply sunscreen to protect against premature ageing and skin cancer. But when it comes to know what things to look for in a label when buying sunscreen, not many are aware.

As per Northwestern University researchers, only 43% of consumers were aware of the definition of sun protection factor (SPF). Only 7% knew what things to look for in a label if they have to buy a sunscreen that offers protection against skin ageing.

For the study, the researchers have carried out survey on more than 100 people last summer. Main aim of the survey was to know at what level consumers are having knowledge of new sunscreen labels and also, to evaluate how much is known about sun protection.

After carrying out the survey, it was found that around 80% of those who took part in the survey have purchased sunscreen in 2013. And, 75% said that main reason for buying sunscreen was to avoid sunburn and then preventing skin cancer (66%).

Factors that influenced their decision of buying sunscreen were-

Study’s lead researcher Dr. Roopal Kundu said, “Only 43 percent understood that if you apply SPF 30 sunscreen to skin 15 minutes before going outdoors, you can stay outside 30 times longer without getting sunburn”.

Kundu affirmed that they need to take more steps to educate people on sun protection. It is also needed to make descriptions easier, so that they can be understandable.