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UV Index Exposure by Zip Code and Photoprotection Education in Children with Skin of Color
Abstract   Peer reviewed

UV Index Exposure by Zip Code and Photoprotection Education in Children with Skin of Color

Robert Adler, Alex Silberzweig, Alexander Velaoras, Isha Gandhi, Rachel Aronov, Kelly Frasier and Pooja Shah
Journal of investigative dermatology, v 146(3), S10
Mar 2026
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/S0022-202X(26)00574-9

Abstract

Background: Children with skin of color (SOC) face unique risks from ultraviolet (UV) exposure, such as postinflammatory hyperpigmentation, melasma, uneven skin tone, and delayed skin cancer detection. The extent to which school-based education reflects regional UV risk and the specific needs of children with SOC remains poorly characterized, particularly at the elementary level when lifelong sun-habits begin to form. Methods: Schools with >50% SOC enrollment in the 50 highest and 50 lowest summer UV index zip codes were surveyed regarding sun protection education. Topics included sunscreen use, UV index awareness, protective clothing, outdoor activity policies, and whether guidance was tailored by skin tone. Results: Schools in high UV index regions did not report more frequent photoprotection education than those in lower UV areas. Most districts offered minimal or no sun safety content, often limited to general health units lacking dermatologic detail. No district reported skin-tone—specific instruction. Common barriers included lack of state standards, limited class time, and perceptions of lower UV risk among SOC populations. Conclusions: Sun safety education is inconsistently implemented in schools serving SOC populations, irrespective of UV exposure. Integrating dermatologic education that reflects the needs of SOC populations into elementary school health curricula may support early adoption of photoprotective behaviors and improve long-term skin health outcomes. Layperson Summary: Kids with darker skin tones can face unique skin problems from sun exposure, like uneven skin color or skin conditions that are harder to notice or treat. This study looked at whether schools in areas with high ultraviolet light teach kids—especially those with skin of color—how to protect themselves from the sun. Surprisingly, schools in the sunniest places were not more likely to include sun protection lessons. Most schools had little or no guidance, especially when discussing how sun care might need to be different for different skin tones. Better education could help all kids build safe sun practices early on. Article metrics

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