Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 20, 2026

Pharmacologic Induction of Epidermal Melanin and Protection Against Sunburn in a Humanized Mouse Model
Published on: September 7, 2013
The effect of sunscreen on melanoma risk
Jennifer S Mulliken1, Julie E Russak, Darrell S Rigel
1New York University School of Medicine, 550 First Avenue, New York, NY 10016, USA.
Abstract:
Total cumulative sun exposure is associated with the development of squamous cell and basal cell cancers, whereas intense intermittent sun exposure is associated with the development of melanoma. Exposure to UV radiation is the only known modifiable cause of melanoma, but the role of sunscreen in melanoma prevention remains somewhat controversial. This article discusses how UV radiation contributes to the pathogenesis of melanoma, how sunscreen modulates the action of UV radiation on the skin, and the effect of sunscreen on the risk of developing melanoma. A review of available sunscreen agents and their sun-protective properties is also included.
Related Concept Videos
Skin Cancer
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): BCC is the most common type of skin cancer, accounting for about 80% of cases. It typically develops in...
Pigmentation
Melanin occurs in two primary forms: eumelanin that provides black and brown pigment and pheomelanin that provides red color. Dark-skinned individuals produce more melanin than those with pale...
Mutations
Chromosomal Alterations Are Large-Scale Mutations
While point mutations are changes in a single nucleotide in...
Changes in Skin Color: Clinical Perspectives
Albinism
Albinism is a genetic disorder that affects (completely or partially) the coloring of skin, hair, and eyes. The defect is primarily...
Loss of Tumor Suppressor Gene Functions
When the tumor suppressor genes develop mutations or are lost, cells start growing out of control, leading to cancer. However, a single functional copy of the tumor suppressor gene is enough for the cells to maintain their normal functions and cell...
Cancer Prevention
Some...

