This week, the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) released a statement reminding individuals to moisturize their hands in light of an increase in hand washing due to the spread of COVID-19. In a press release, dermatologists from the AAD issued this reminder in addition to a number of other hand washing tips.
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.
Mercury exposure may increase risk of skin cancer
Exposure to mercury could lead to an increased risk of developing non-melanoma skin cancer, according to a new study. The study, published online ahead of print in the British Journal of Dermatology (Feb. 5, 2020), used information from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey to cross track mercury exposure from fish and skin cancer rates.
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.
Study: Neuron-like activity discovered in skin cells
Researchers have discovered that neuron-like signaling happens between specialized skin cells. Authors of the study published in the Journal of Cell Biology (Jan. 6, 2020; 219(1)) said that bursts of calcium travel between melanocytes at the bottom of the skin’s epidermis.
Study finds racial disparity in acne medication prescribing
For treatment of acne, black patients appear to be prescribed systemic therapies such as antibiotics at a much lower rate than white patients, according to a new study published online ahead of print in JAMA Dermatology (Feb. 5, 2020).
Smartphone apps for skin cancer detection not as accurate as previously thought
New smartphone apps designed to help catch early signs of skin cancer using photographs may not be as accurate as previously thought, according to a new study published in The BMJ (Feb. 10, 2020).
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.
