Non-melanoma skin cancer: The hygiene hypothesis

Protection against ultra violet radiation-induced DNA-damage in the skin is not only provided by the pigmentary system. The epidermal barrier consisting of stratum corneum keratinocytes, filaggrin and other proteins is an additional component of the UV-shield. Disruption of the epidermal barrier through frequent body cleansing with soaps and cosmetics may increase the risk of non-melanoma skin cancer.