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Objectives Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is characterized by photosensitivity, making sun protection a cornerstone of management. This study aimed to assess patient perspectives, experiences, and adherence behaviors regarding sun exposure and photoprotective measures in a real-life cohort.Methods A cross-sectional survey was distributed online to individuals with SLE. The questionnaire captured data on demographic characteristics, disease features (year of diagnosis, skin involvement), beliefs about the impact of sunlight, self-reported sun-induced symptoms, knowledge of harmful radiation types, sunscreen preferences and usage patterns, utilization of additional protective measures, and the nature of discussions with rheumatologists on this topic. Descriptive statistics was used to analyze responses from 103 participants.Results The majority of respondents (66%) had physician-confirmed skin manifestations of SLE. A significant proportion (75.7%) believed sunlight could trigger disease exacerbation. The most frequently reported potential sunlight-associated symptoms were severe fatigue/fever (59.2%), skin rash (48.5%), and joint pain/inflammation (49.5%); 26.2% reported potential internal organ involvement. Regarding knowledge, 56.3% correctly identified all types of solar radiation (direct, diffuse, reflected) as dangerous. 28.2% of respondents consider only direct sunlight to be dangerous, and 10.7% found the question difficult to answer. While 81.3% preferred high-protection sunscreen (SPF 50+, broad-spectrum), only 42.7% reported optimal application practices (applying 15-30 minutes before exposure) and only 21.4% reapplying regularly. 15.5% of respondents use no sunscreen at all. Complementary protective methods were widely used: avoiding peak sun hours (78.6%), wearing long sleeves (73.8%), and using sunglasses (64.1%), wide-brimmed hat (44.7%) and even umbrella (12.6%). Although 81.5% of patients had discussed sun protection with their rheumatologist (45.6% high detailed recommendations), full adherence to recommendations was reported by only 29.1%. Key barriers to adherence included discomfort (e.g., sticky cream, inconvenient hats - 46.9%), forgetfulness (33.3%), and cost (7.3%).Conclusions This survey reveals a high awareness among SLE patients of sunlight as a disease trigger and widespread use of photoprotection. However, a significant gap exists between knowledge and optimal practice, particularly concerning correct sunscreen application. Non-adherence is frequently driven by practical and comfort-related barriers. The findings underscore the need for more effective, patient-centered education from healthcare providers.