title: Photoprotection in adolescence.
abstract: Physical changes and the establishment of personal values are characteristics of adolescence. Despite being well informed regarding sun protection and the skin cancer risks related to sun exposure, teenagers usually make little use of sunscreens and remain out in the sun for long periods. Besides the social appeal and the impression that a nice tan provides a healthy appearance, the tendency to deny long-term risks seems to influence sun exposure behaviors in this life period. Due to the strong relation between skin cancer and sun exposure in childhood and adolescence, it is important to encourage the adoption of photoprotection measures early in life. Adolescents have difficulty accepting guidance through official educational messages, and very few of them follow family recommendations. Celebrities, fashion, and the entertainment industry exert a greater influence on their choices. Thus, it is fundamental to incorporate photoprotection counseling into the medical routine, in an adolescent-driven way. This article reviews peculiarities of sun protection in adolescence and discusses the type of advice to be given to patients in this age group.
authors: Sector of Dermatology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil.
authors: Cristiane
authors: C
authors: Benvenuto-Andrade
authors: Tania Ferreira
authors: TF
authors: Cestari
authors: Adriana
authors: A
authors: Mota
authors: Claudia
authors: C
authors: Poziomczyk
authors: Marcia
authors: M
authors: Ramos-E-Silva
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D004781:Environmental Exposure / Q000517:prevention & control*; D006801:Humans; D000297:Psychology, Adolescent; D012878:Skin Neoplasms / Q000517:prevention & control; D013472:Sunlight / Q000009:adverse effects*; D013473:Sunscreening Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*
chemical_list: D013473:Sunscreening Agents