A great opportunity for budding dermatologists
Getting a dermatology specialty training number in the UK has become increasingly difficult and the extracurricular requirements are often overwhelming. Dimitrios Karponis, an ST5 Academic Clinical Fellow in dermatology, together with Altruist, would like to motivate budding dermatologists to achieve their dream. The winner will receive a 1-to-1 mentorship from Dimitrios himself, £100 and the whole range of Altruist products (except the Altruist 1 litre bottles)!
Who can join?
Medical students and doctors in early training (FY1-IMT3 in the UK, or medical school graduates from overseas prior to SpR/resident training) are eligible to participate.
Topic: Banning sunbeds or better education: what works best to prevent skin damage?
Several studies have highlighted the risks associated with sunbed use and the importance of effective skin cancer prevention. While banning sunbeds may help reduce exposure to harmful UV radiation, education also plays an important role in encouraging sun safety habits.
With the continued popularity of tanning and the influence of social media, the debate around the most effective approach to preventing skin damage remains relevant.
Therefore, the topic for 2026 is: Banning sunbeds or better education: what works best to prevent skin damage?
How does this work?
Write
Explore and write this year’s essay question and form your perspective.
Submit
Submit your essay between 1–30 September and email it to suncream.prize@gmail.com with the subject “Essay Prize 2026”.
Please include your name and stage of training as well.
Winner
The winning essay will be selected by our multidisciplinary judging panel, and the winner will be contacted.
Please ensure that no personally identifiable information is included in the essay document.
Formatting guidelines
Referencing: Please use the Vancouver referencing style for any citations.
Figures: Maximum of 2 allowed.
Maximum word count: 1000 (excluding any figure legends, title and citations)
Feedback: Feedback will not be provided for the entries.
Winner of 2025: Dr Olga Pawlik
Sunscreen is central to skin cancer prevention, but its effectiveness is undermined by myths, underuse, and improper application technique.
Katie’s testimonial story illustrates how misinformation influences behaviour, even in health-conscious individuals.