Limited access to sunscreen may increase the risk of skin cancer, particularly in rural regions where retail availability is sparse. This study identifies methodological challenges in defining “sunscreen deserts” across New Hampshire and Vermont. A literature review of access-mapping frameworks revealed inconsistencies in how previous research measures retail availability, socioeconomic vulnerability, and geographic barriers. Using retailer databases and USDA-derived population data, this project mapped sunscreen retailer density by census tract and evaluated disparities across rural and urban communities. Key challenges include misclassification of semi-rural areas using binary RUCA codes, overreliance on median income, and aggregation at the county level that obscures neighborhood-level inequities. Additionally, travel distance underestimates real-world access, particularly in mountainous regions. Findings highlight the need for refined metrics that capture both physical access and contextual factors—such as affordability, transportation, product preferences, and sun-protection behaviors. Developing an accurate definition of sunscreen deserts is essential for targeted public health interventions aimed at reducing future skin cancer disparities in New England.