Published Article / Sunscreen lotions are the skins protection against sunburn. Even though this sounds like a simple fact, somatologists appear to know remarkably little about the usage, ingredients present and their adverse effects on the skin. In the South African Association of Health and Skincare Professionals (SAAHSP) accredited salons of Bloemfontein, 43 somatologists were tested by means of questionnaires in order to determine their awareness and knowledge regarding sunscreen usage, the ingredients in the lotions and their adverse effects. The results were statistically analysed by means of frequencies and percentages which proved that more than half (58%) of somatologists use sunscreen daily, but do not have the knowledge or awareness of toxic ingredients found in these products. In conclusion, most Somatologists in Bloemfontein are not fully equipped with the knowledge surrounding sunscreens in order for them to provide adequate information to their clients. It is recommended that information regarding sunscreens should be included as a higher priority in the professional product house training including the Somatology curriculum.

Skin cancer incidence is increasing while the rates of other cancers is declining. The purpose of this quantitative study was to determine whether health self-efficacy predicted skin cancer protective behaviors. The theory of health self-efficacy provided the framework for the study. Secondary data were collected from the 2008 and 2014 Health Information National Trends Surveys. The study sample included women 18-34 years of age because this population is especially vulnerable to skin cancer. Results of logistic regression analyses indicated that higher levels of health self-efficacy predicted greater sunscreen use, but higher health self-efficacy levels did not predict avoidance of tanning bed or booth use. No significant changes were found in sunscreen use and tanning bed and booth use between 2008 and 2014. Findings may be used to develop educational programs and medical interventions to decrease the incidence of skin cancer.