Do Men Really Need Sunscreen or Is It a Marketing Gimmick?

Whenever I ask men in my clinic, “Do you use sunscreen?”, the most common reply is –

“Doctor, sunscreen is for women. We don’t need all that.”

And some add, “It’s just a marketing trick, right?”

Let’s clear this once and for all.

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☀️ Sun Doesn’t Care About Gender

UV rays don’t say, “Oh, you’re a man, let me skip your skin today.”

Whether you’re male or female, exposure to sun causes the same problems:

• Early wrinkles and rough skin

• Sunburns and tanning

• Pigmentation and uneven tone

• Higher risk of skin cancer (yes, even in Indian men)

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👨 Why Men May Need Sunscreen Even More

1. Outdoor Lifestyle – Many men spend longer hours outdoors for work, sports, or travel.

2. Thicker, Oilier Skin – Men’s skin has more oil glands, which means more open pores where UV damage can act deeper.

3. Shaving Factor – Regular shaving removes the top protective layer of skin, making it more sensitive to sun damage.

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🧴 Common Excuses Men Give (and the Truth)

• “I don’t care about tanning.”

→ It’s not just about looks; sun damage speeds up ageing and increases medical risks.

• “Sunscreen feels sticky.”

→ Modern sunscreens come in gel, matte, and spray forms—perfect for men who dislike creams.

• “I already use a fairness cream.”

→ No cream can protect against UV rays the way a proper sunscreen does.

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✅ The Smarter Way for Men

• Pick a lightweight, gel-based sunscreen (SPF 30 or more).

• Apply on face, ears, and neck—areas men usually ignore.

• Reapply if you’re outdoors for long hours.

• Make it part of your grooming, just like shaving or deodorant.

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👨‍⚕️ Dermatologist’s Take

Sunscreen for men is not a gimmick, it’s protection. Just like helmets for bikers or seatbelts in cars, sunscreen shields you from long-term harm. The earlier men start, the better their skin will look and feel in the years ahead.

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✨ Bottom line: Sunscreen is not “cosmetic luxury” for women—it’s daily protection for everyone.

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