THE MALE SUNSCREEN DIVIDE

As Oman enters another long and intensely hot summer, health experts continue to stress the importance of protecting skin from harmful UV radiation. Yet despite growing awareness around wellness and preventive care, many men still hesitate to use sunscreen regularly.
For some, sunscreen is simply a practical health necessity. For others, it remains associated with beauty routines and is still perceived as a product meant primarily for women. This raises an interesting question: is sunscreen a matter of protection, or is its use still shaped by social perceptions of masculinity in the Gulf?
“I never thought much about sunscreen when I was younger,” said 35-year-old engineer Ali al Saidi. “But after experiencing severe sunburn during outdoor work in the desert, I realised it is no different from wearing sunglasses or a hat. It is simply protection.”
Ali is among a growing number of men who have begun incorporating sunscreen into their daily routines, particularly those who spend long hours outdoors. However, many remain unconvinced.
University student Waleed Khalid believes sunscreen is often misunderstood. “Some of my friends think it is unnecessary or only for people concerned about appearance,” he said. “There is still a perception that skincare is not something men should care about.”
That perception, however, may be slowly changing. Social media, fitness culture and rising health awareness are encouraging more young men to pay attention to overall well-being, including skin health.
Dermatologist Dr Fatma al Alawi stresses that the issue should be viewed purely through a medical lens. “The sun affects everyone regardless of gender,” she explained. “Long-term exposure can lead to premature aging, pigmentation and other skin conditions. Sunscreen is a preventive health measure, not a beauty statement.”
For men whose jobs require prolonged outdoor exposure, the concern is even more significant. Khalid Salim, who works in construction, admits he rarely used sunscreen in the past. “We usually relied on hats and shade, when possible,” he said. “Now I understand that sunscreen provides additional protection, especially during peak sunlight hours.”
Others remain unconvinced.
Retired fisherman Mohammed al Qutaiti laughed when asked about sunscreen. “I spent decades under the sun without it,” he said. “For my generation, it was never something we thought about, and I don’t think men should use creams like these.”
A 32-year-old teacher, Ahmed al Hosni, expressed similar hesitation. “It is impossible for me to use such creams. In fact, it is seen as a shame for men, especially in this hot weather. We and our fathers and grandfathers have always coped with these harsh rays without such products.”
His view reflects a mindset still present among older generations, where endurance and resilience are often valued over preventive health habits.
As temperatures continue to rise and awareness campaigns expand, attitudes towards sunscreen appear to be gradually evolving. What was once dismissed as a cosmetic product is increasingly being recognised as a basic health essential.
The debate ultimately goes beyond skincare. It reflects shifting perceptions of masculinity itself: is taking care of one’s health a sign of weakness, or simply a mark of responsibility?