Duration
2 days
Training structure
Continuing Education Department, Faculty of Science
Language(s) of instruction
French
Presentation
This short course (2 days) provides a comprehensive and practical understanding of photoprotection, from the scientific basics of solar radiation to assessment methods and international regulations.
Teaching team:
- Head of training: Dr. Véronique Barragan-Montero, Director of the ICAP Master's in Cosmetics Engineering, Faculty of Sciences, University of Montpellier.
- Host: Dr. Marc Pissavini :
- Director of Research in Photoprotection
- International expert in applied cosmetic photoprotection (formulation, SPF/UVA measurements, in vitro/in vivo evaluation).
- Editor of the International Journal of Cosmetic Science.
- Contributor and facilitator of the ISO/TC217/WG7 group on photoprotection methods.
- Author of numerous scientific publications and international speaker.
The advantages of the training program
- Unique in France: the first short university course exclusively dedicated to photoprotection
- International expertise: led by a recognized leader in the field (ISO, IJCS)
- Updated content: incorporates the latest ISO standards (published in 2024) and discussions on future regulations
- Dual reading: suitable for both scientists and communicators/marketers
Objectives
- Understanding the science behind UV radiation and its effects on the skin
- Mastering methods for evaluating sunscreen products (in vivo, in vitro, in silico)
- Be familiar with ISO standards and applicable international regulations
- Assess the relevance and limitations of claims related to photoprotection
- Anticipating scientific, regulatory, and societal developments in the field
Program
Dates: November 5 and 6, 2025 (14 hours of training)
Program:
Day 1 – Scientific foundations and assessment methods
- Introduction and public health issues: electromagnetic spectrum, UV, visible, IR, impact on the skin
- Environmental factors: latitude, season, altitude, reflection (snow, water, sand), weather
- Effects of the sun: skin (aging, immunosuppression, cancers, dermatoses)
- UV filters: organic vs. mineral, mechanisms of action, photostability, formulation interactions
- Evaluation methods: SPF, UVA-PF, CW, complementary indices
- ISO standards: international validation process, feedback
Day 2 – Variability, regulation, and outlook
- Test variability and uncertainty: amount applied, spreading, exposure conditions, photostability, water, sweat
- International regulations: Europe, USA, Australia, China, Japan
- Communication & perception: claims, fake news, and myths in sun protection (mineral vs. organic, extreme SPF)
- Future prospects: alternative methods (ISO 2024 validation), formulation innovations, environmental constraints, new approaches
Methods:
- Interactive lectures with visual aids (PowerPoint, case studies)
- Critical discussion and exchanges on concrete examples
- Multiple-choice assessment or mini-case study - optional
Admission
Target audience
- Professionals in the cosmetics industry (R&D, regulatory affairs, scientific affairs, marketing).
- Dermatologists, pharmacists, students of pharmaceutical and cosmetic sciences.
- Regulators, health agencies.
- Science journalists and health and beauty communications managers.
Required level: Beginners to intermediate.