Objective:

To determine the level of knowledge and frequency of use of sunscreen in medical students from a Peruvian university.

Methods:

Cross-sectional descriptive research in 302 students, of both genders and different academic cycles. An expert-validated virtual survey was applied. A convenience sampling was used.

Results:

Knowledge level was 56% and use of sunscreen was 28,7%. The level of knowledge increased in higher academic cycles. Use of sunscreen was higher among women (34.5%), and significantly associated with the level of knowledge (p=0.001). Mixed skin type (55%) and skin phototype III (58.3%) prevailed. The question with highest correct answer rate was that solar radiation causes skin cancer (97%).

Conclusions:

Among medical students of a Peruvian university, the level of knowledge about the use of sunscreen was high, particularly in women, higher study cycles and favors the use of sunscreen. Medical students always used sunscreen infrequently and was associated with female gender, skin phototype and the level of knowledge.

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