Cosmetics and skin cancer: a review of risks, prevention and treatment

Abstract

Skin cancer, including Non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) and melanoma, constitutes a real global health challenge. This review paper discusses epidemiological aspects of skin cancer, its risk factors, pathophysiology, and management with a focus on inter-professional collaboration. Skin cancer is the development of cancerous cells in the skin, which is most often caused by overexposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun or sun lamps. It becomes important to establish a relationship between skin cancer and cosmetics since most of these products come into contact with skin and hair. Some of these cosmetic products may have elements that either make the skin more vulnerable to Ultra-Violet (UV) radiation or damage the skin’s protective layer and lead to skin cancer. Other cosmetics include sun protection factors (SPF) and components that prevent skin damage from exposure to dangerous UV radiation, which minimizes the risks. Thus, people should be enlightened about the dangers of sun exposure on the skin, including the need to apply sunscreen or wear protective clothing and/ or limit sun exposure. Skin cancer awareness, early examinations, and regular check-ups of suspicious moles and other skin growths remain crucial in prevention. This review paper provides a deeper look into the correlation between skin cancer and cosmetics, thus identifying the related impact, advantages, and disadvantages. Through the knowledge of this correlation presented in the paper, people are enabled to make wise decisions and pay more attention to their skin. This has further brought out the need to have a team approach to the provision of skin cancer care, in which healthcare workers from several disciplines can be of help.