There are two main types of skin cancer: 1/ Melanomas, which develop from melanocytes, the cells that manufacture melanin (skin's natural pigment). This is the least common kind of skin cancer, but the most likely to result in metastases. 2/ Carcinoma, which develop from keratinocytes, the cells making up the epidermis. They can be divided into 2 types: > Squamous cell carcinoma, which can metastasize. > Basal cell carcinoma, the number one cancer in humans in terms of the frequency with which it arises, but also the most “benign”, as it does not metastasize

Over 2 million skin cancers are diagnosed every year in the world. This figure, which is constantly rising, is set to double between 2000 and 2015 in countries where the majority of the population has white skin, according to a report by the United Nations. It is a worrying statistic, which can by explained by the increasing popularity of outdoor activities and the practices of “sunbathing” and exposure to artificial UV light… 7500 new cases of melanoma are identified each year in France

This issue depends on the type of cancer. Squamous carcinoma is more common in older people. Basal cell carcinoma occurs earlier than Squamous carcinoma, but becomes more common with age. Melanomas can arise at any age. Risk increasing with age. In addition, an American study has shown that 80% of sun damage caused in skin occurs before the age of 18, which reflects the casual attitude that young people have in the sun. It is crucial that parents, who are becoming even more careful with very small children in the sun, to teach their children to be responsible for their own protection as they grow up.

Melanomas can occur anywhere on the body, which is why it is vital to examine the entire surface of the skin. Nonetheless, they are most commonly found: on the torso in men and on the legs in women. Carcinomas are mostly found on areas of skin that receive a lot of sun exposure: face, chest and the back of the hands.

Melanomas most often start as an irregularly-shaped dark brown or black mark on skin's surface, which can then develop deeper, reaching the dermis if not diagnosed early enough.

You can examine yourself alone with the help of a hand or standing mirror. For areas that are harder to see, like the back and scalp, have a family member or friend help you.

Melanomas are very rare in children. Nonetheless, certain moles which are present at birth (“congenital nevi”) should be examined by a dermatologist and monitored. Most moles begin to appear in childhood. They increase in size and number during puberty.

In the majority of cases, treatment is surgical: > Carcinomas of a small size are removed (exeresis), in general, in the dermatologist's clinic. Certain superficial carcinomas in their early stages can benefit from other treatments (cryotherapy, local topical treatments). Carcinomas identified in their later stages, which have become larger in volume, may require more complex surgical interventions. > Melanomas systematically undergo surgical treatment

Surgical exeresis results in a scar whose size is determined by the size of the lesion: in case of late detection, lesions are more important and cause scars which can be disabling or anesthetic. That is why it is essential to encourage early detection consulting regularly a dermatologist and monitoring the skin between 2 consultations. Today, the progress of surgical techniques allows leaving very discreet, almost invisible scars.

Melanoma occurrence within a family is a risk factor that necessitates a higher degree of monitoring of the family members. Consultation with a dermatologist is highly recommended.

Skin can be damaged by the sun's rays. Ultraviolet rays cause sunburn, drying of the skin and premature aging. In the long term, excessive sun exposure can lead to skin cancers such as melanoma.

UVA make up over 90% of the sun's rays. They have a longer wavelength than UVB, allowing them to reach deeper within the skin. They thus contribute to skin aging and play an important role in the development of skin cancers. UVB rays do not penetrate skin so deeply: they cause sunburn and also play a very important role in the development of skin cancers. Therefore both types of ultraviolet rays are dangerous, but affect different levels of skin.

No, directions remain identical. Tan is a self-defense mechanism of the skin against the sun. Its ability to protect the skin is weak compared with that of a suncare product.

No. Applying a sun protection product should not lead you to spend more time in the sun. It is particularly important to avoid exposure when the sun is at its strongest and at these times you should opt for protective clothing. Protection should, however, be used on uncovered areas of skin. Ensure you apply a sufficient amount of product and re-apply every 2 hours to ensure you are effectively protected.

Using a high sun protection factor (SPF 50+) allows you to tan while limiting the skin damage associated with sun exposure.

If you have freckled or very fair skin, you will not tan: you will simply burn. It is thus strongly recommended that you protect yourself using a product with a high protection factor (SPF 50+) and avoid unnecessary sun exposure.

No it repalces under no circumstances cutaneous sun protection. However, he is not damaging and can reinforce cell defence mechanisms in the sun.

No it acts on the colour of the skin but does not protect it.

No, tan is a defense mechanism against the sun. Sunbeds broadcast UVA, in more intense doses than the sun : UVA rays are insidious because painless, they draw away only a superficial suntan and favour production of free radicals responsible of cutaneous ageing and cell system alteration. Sunbeds therefore increase premature ageing of the skin and risks of developing a skin cancer.