Non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC), including Bowen’s disease and squamous cell carcinoma, is the most common human cancer, with sun exposure causing nearly all cases (1). Melanoma, although less common, accounts for ~17,600 new cases annually in the UK, 86% of which are considered preventable (2). With its high mortality rate, melanoma is a leading cause of skin cancer deaths worldwide (3). Ultraviolet radiation (UVR) has profound effects at the molecular level. UVB (280–320 nm) penetrates DNA directly, producing erythema and structural DNA damage (4). UVA (320–400 nm) contributes indirectly via reactive oxygen species, leading to photoaging and further DNA damage (5). Sun protection strategies include clothing, wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, shade, and sunscreen. Yet sunscreen use is undermined by misinformation. This essay explores these myths through the case of Katie, a 25-year-old woman from Devon, and considers strategies to address them. Introducing Katie Katie has Fitzpatrick skin type II, with blonde hair and blue eyes. She usually burns then tans, and has a family history of keratinocyte cancers. As a teaching assistant, she spends much of her day outdoors but assumes cloudy Devon skies protect her. She relies on SPF 15 in her foundation and rarely applies additional sunscreen. She enjoys playing netball at the weekends, surfing in summer, and deliberately sunbathes on holidays abroad. She applies sunscreen once daily before sunbathing but uses the same bottle for several years. She believes cars and cold weather protect her from UV, and has been influenced by TikTok claims that sunscreen is “toxic.” She is considering switching to coconut oil and “natural” approaches, such as eating carrots for protection. Katie’s behaviour reflects widespread myths about sunscreen use.  Sunscreen Mechanism of Action Sunscreens reduce UVR exposure to the skin. Organic (chemical) filters such as oxybenzone and avobenzone absorb UVR and convert it to heat, while inorganic (ph