Men’s Accounts of Reactions to Two Sources of Information on Negative Effects of UV Exposure: Facial Morphing and a Health Promotion Fact Sheet

Abstract

This study explored young men’s experiences of two sources of information designed to encourage UV protection and investigated which of these was perceived as having the most potential to impact on future UV protection/exposure. Eight men aged 18 to 35 years were shown an information sheet on health-related effects of UV exposure, and images of their own faces aged with and without UV exposure using ageing software. Participants were interviewed to explore reactions to these sources of information, and current and predicted sun protection and exposure. Men found both sources of information interesting and influential, and thematic analysis revealed three master themes: ‘gendered health and appearance attitudes’, ‘UV exposure as a risky health behaviour’, and ‘taking future preventative measures’. Implications for research and health care practice are discussed.