“Understanding Melanoma Risk for People with Red or Blonde Hair, Blue Eyes, and Fair Skin, with or without Freckling,” by Kenneth Kulp MD

Through my years of practice as a dermatologist, I have learned that people with red or blonde hair, and people with fair skin, more generally, are at greater risk of developing skin cancer. Because of the predominance of pheomelanin in their skin, they are more susceptible to damage from ultraviolet rays.

A new study, however, suggests that even without exposure to sunlight, the risk is greater for people with these characteristics. Researchers from Massachusetts General Hospital recently published their findings in the journal Nature, showing that in mice with lighter melanin, melanoma risk was higher even without exposure to UV radiation. This suggests that the pigment itself may be contributing factor to skin cancer risk.

Further research is needed to determine how to use these findings to improve prevention, and the authors emphasize that using sunscreen to block UV radiation is still crucially important. Still, this research emphasizes that those with red or blonde hair and light skin should be especially vigilant in taking precautions against overexposure and monitoring their dermatological health.

About the author: Dr. Kenneth Kulp earned his MD at the University of North Carolina School of Medicine. He has practiced medicine as Kulp Dermatology, P.A., for 33 years. His office is currently located in the Preston area of Cary, North Carolina.

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