One of the methods used to reduce the risk of skin cancer is to wear a sunscreen with a sun protection factor of ___ or higher.

Wearing sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher is widely recognized as a key method for reducing the risk of skin cancer. SPF measures how well a sunscreen protects the skin from ultraviolet (UV) rays, specifically UVB rays, which are primarily responsible for causing sunburn and contributing to skin cancer. An SPF of 15 blocks approximately 93% of UVB rays, providing an effective level of protection for most individuals during everyday activities.

The emphasis on SPF 15 aligns with guidelines from various health organizations, which recommend this level as a minimum for daily use to help prevent skin damage and cancer. Higher SPFs provide greater protection, but the most crucial factor is consistent and proper application, along with reapplication, especially after sweating, swimming, or towel drying.

While options with higher SPF values might offer more protection, especially during prolonged sun exposure, SPF 15 is acknowledged as sufficient for normal, everyday sun exposure. Therefore, the choice of SPF 15 effectively addresses the fundamental need for skin protection without overcomplicating the message.