Only on SkinInc.com: Do Your Millennial Clients Know About Skin Cancer?

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Fewer than 50% of Millennials are well-informed about skin cancer.

In recognition of Skin Cancer Awareness Month, Total Beauty Media Group surveyed 550 women about their skin care habits. As it turns out, Millennials just are not getting the message:

  • 1 in 5 women 18–34 DO NOT apply sunscreen regularly.
  • 1 in 5 Millennial women do not understand the severity of melanoma.

“The results of this study parallel my own findings on skin care in the Millennial generation. Most of the younger patients I work with focus on skin care only when they have a visible issue, such as acne. However, they don’t realize that most skin damage occurs before the age of 18,” says Howard Murad, MD, FAAD, associate clinical professor of medicine at UCLA and founder of Murad, Inc. “Proper prevention, in the form of appropriate topical products, good nutrition and stress reduction, is key to not only preventing visible issues such as acne, but also preventing long-term health issues, such as skin cancer. Ultimately a happy, healthy lifestyle is the best way to ensure your skin can defend itself against damage.”

Some additional findings:

  • Wrinkles topped the list as the No. 1 skin care concern.
  • Beauty websites are the most utilized sources of skin care advice: More than 50% of women spend up to 30 minutes researching skin care products before making a purchase.
  • The online marketplace is the third leading channel for skin care purchases after mass retail and drug outlets.
  • Among all women, dry skin sufferers spend the most money on skin care products each year: 42% of these respondents spend more than $200 annually.

The Total Beauty Media Group advises skin care professionals, exclusively via SkinInc.com: "These results represent an opportunity for skin care facilities to educate young women about the importance of skin care, as well as healthy, preventive routines. As May’s Skin Cancer Awareness Month leads into summer and beach season, it’s the right time to reach these clients. Spas should intercept Millennial women where they live—mobile devices, social media, word-of-mouth from peers—and help them prevent skin damage and enjoy safe sun this summer."

To help spread the word, check out this infographic that helps explain these numbers to your clients. Consider posting in on your website, Facebook page or in your spa to start the conversation about the importance of healthy skin and skin cancer prevention.

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