Skin cancer risk for patients with vitiligo does not increase after UVB phototherapy

For patients with vitiligo, extended treatment with narrowband ultraviolet B (UVB) phototherapy does not lead to an increase in their risk of developing skin cancer, according to a new study. The study, published online ahead of print in JAMA Dermatology (Mar. 11, 2020), took a deeper look at UVB phototherapy, which is often used for vitiligo patients.

Higher Levels of Social Media Literacy May Lead to Less Dangerous Tanning Practices

Higher levels of media literacy in young adults led to a reduction in appearance-based comparisons, with individuals idealizing tanned appearance less, according to a new study. Based on these findings, published online ahead of print in Social Media + Society (Feb. 19, 2020), the investigators believe that higher levels of media literacy may result in a lower risk of skin cancer.

Discovery of new RNA molecule could be key for early detection of skin cancer

The discovery of a new RNA molecule could lead to earlier detection of squamous cell carcinoma in the future, according to a new study. The study, published in the American Journal of Pathology (Feb. 2020; 190(2):503-517), found that the molecule, named PRECSIT, is integral in determining how squamous cell carcinoma grows and spreads.

Repurposed topical cream may be key to curbing mosquito-borne diseases

Applied within an hour of mosquito bite, the topical cream imiquimod may reduce the chance of transmission of viral diseases such as Zika and dengue, according to a new study. Researchers of the study, published in Science Translational Medicine (Jan 22, 2020; 12(527)), found that the skin cream, when applied immediately after a mosquito bite, helps to activate immune system response.

Active ingredients in sunscreens may absorbed into skin at higher levels than previously thought

Absorption of the active ingredients in four commercially available sunscreens resulted in plasma concentrations that exceed the FDA safety threshold in participants in a new study. Researchers of the study, published in JAMA (Jan 21, 2020; 323(3):256-267) stressed that these findings do not suggest that individuals should stop using sunscreen.