Watermelon (and its high lycopene content) cannot in any way replace the application of a sunscreen product to maintain skin health.

noli's read

Jessica Knurick's warning is scientifically sound: consuming watermelon is absolutely no substitute for applying sunscreen. In terms of research, it is well established that watermelon is exceptionally rich in lycopene, a very powerful natural antioxidant. Randomized clinical trials, such as the one conducted by Wilhelm Stahl's team (2001), as well as a meta-analysis by Dilokthornsakul (2018), confirm that prolonged daily consumption of lycopene helps reduce skin sensitivity to sun-induced redness. However, this internal defense mechanism offers only a very weak protective screen (estimated at an SPF of less than 4). There is no scientific evidence showing that eating this fruit can physically block UV rays or prevent deep damage to our skin barriers. Presenting watermelon as an alternative to external protection is therefore a risky extrapolation that exposes the skin to lasting damage.

the sources

1. 1Green AC, Williams GM, Logan V, Strutton GM 2011
2. 2Hughes MCB, Williams GM, Baker P, Green AC 2013