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Updated: May 10, 2026
12:37
Pharmacologic Induction of Epidermal Melanin and Protection Against Sunburn in a Humanized Mouse Model
Published on: September 7, 2013
A sun holiday is a sunburn holiday.
Bibi Petersen1, Elisabeth Thieden, Peter Alshede Philipsen
1Department of Dermatological Research, University of Copenhagen, Bispebjerg Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark. bibi.petersen@regionh.dk
Photodermatology, Photoimmunology & Photomedicine
|July 3, 2013
Summary
Sun holidays significantly increase sunburn risk, even with sun protection. All participants in a Canary Islands study experienced sunburn, highlighting the substantial skin cancer risk associated with UVR exposure during vacations.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Environmental Health
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Sunbathing holidays are popular for relaxation and tanning.
- Sunburn is a known risk factor for developing skin cancer.
- Understanding UVR exposure during holidays is crucial for public health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify sunburn risk in holidaymakers.
- To correlate ultraviolet radiation (UVR) exposure with sunburn severity.
- To assess the efficacy of sun protection measures during a week-long holiday.
Main Methods:
- 25 Danish sun seekers in the Canary Islands were monitored over a week.
- Daily skin examinations assessed sunburn percentage of body surface area.
- Personal UVR dosimeters and diaries recorded exposure, clothing, and sunscreen use.
Main Results:
- All 25 volunteers experienced sunburn during their holiday.
- Higher adjusted body site-specific UVR doses correlated significantly with sunburn risk.
- Daily UVR dose showed a significant relationship with the percentage of body surface area sunburned.
Conclusions:
- Holiday UVR exposure poses a high risk of sunburn.
- Melanogenesis (tanning) is insufficient to prevent sunburn during a 1-week sun holiday.
- Sun holidays are associated with a substantial risk of skin cancer.
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