Is cutaneous malignant melanoma associated with the use of antibacterial soaps?

Since 1960, the incidence of melanoma has increased dramatically in Caucasians worldwide, and during the past decade has risen at a rate of 6% a year in the USA. A hypothesis regarding this increased incidence suggests that the prevalent use of antibacterial soaps that contain photosensitizing compounds may be a risk factor for the development of cutaneous malignant melanoma. These antibacterial soaps were introduced in the 1960s and compounds with photosensitizing properties are still present in various soaps throughout the industrialized world. The use of these antibacterial soaps, in combination with sun exposure, leads to free radical production in the skin. These free radicals are hypothesized to cause damage to melanocytes, leading to the development of melanoma. Various epidemiological findings regarding melanoma are consistent with this hypothesis. A significant reduction in the number of new cases of melanoma could be achieved if this hypothesis is correct.