Sunscreen Costs Vary Up to 36-Fold

Economic analysis finds large differences in the annual cost of recommended sunscreen use depending on product price and clothing-based sun protection strategies

By
Olivia Anderson
March 16, 2026
4 min

MDSpire News

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Annual sunscreen costs can range from $39 to $1,429, influenced by product price and sun-protective behaviors.
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The study found a 36-fold variation in annual sunscreen costs among products with similar ingredients and SPF ratings.
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Using clothing-based sun protection significantly reduces the amount of sunscreen needed and lowers overall costs.
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Estimated yearly sunscreen costs for indoor workers ranged from $39.28 to $688.56, while outdoor workers faced costs from $81.53 to $1,429.42.
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Encouraging the use of lower-priced sunscreens and protective clothing could enhance compliance with sun protection recommendations.

Sunscreen Costs Vary Up to 36-Fold

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Original Source(s)

Sunscreen Costs Vary Up to 36-Fold

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