Prolonged exposure to the sun is a real public health problem. And it was with a view to raising awareness that FEBEA invited the press to a themed workshop on May 31, 2023. During the morning’s discussions, the federation unveiled the results of an OpinionWay survey on French sun protection habits, and invited dermatologist Henry Pawin to talk about how to protect yourself from the sun’s harmful effects.
“The first lesson is that, unfortunately, the French don’t use enough sun protection products,” says Olivia Guernier, FEBEA Communications Director (who presented the study figures). “Admittedly, 80% of French people do apply sunscreen, either every two hours or several times a day. But 20% apply it only once when exposed to prolonged sun exposure.”
What’s more, one French person in five never uses any. “Among them, the worst performers are men and the over-65s. These rather worrying results show that, despite all the prevention being done about the dangers of the sun, there are still a great many French people who don’t protect themselves enough, if at all.”
Generally speaking, the French are convinced of the effectiveness of sun protection (89%). “Awareness is there. Nevertheless, they still don’t protect themselves sufficiently,” adds Olivia Guernier. Respondents believe that sunscreens pollute the environment, even though they feel that progress has been made by the beauty industry in terms of eco-responsibility. “Despite a strong belief in the effectiveness of these products, there is a certain mistrust of their impact on the planet.”
Exposure and consequences
Exposure to the sun without cream can have an immediate impact: sunburn.
In the longer term, it can …
