Take advantage of Dr. Pissavini’s expertise and learn about sun protection

Developed by the Faculty of Sciences, this two-day micro-certification program provides a comprehensive and practical understanding of sun protection, covering everything from the scientific fundamentals of solar radiation to assessment methods and international regulations.


Objectives

  1. Understanding the scientific basis of UV radiation and its effects on the skin
  2. Mastering methods for evaluating sunscreen products (in vivo, in vitro, in silico)
  3. Be familiar with current ISO standards and international regulations
  4. Assessing the validity and limitations of claims related to sun protection
  5. Anticipate scientific, regulatory, and societal developments in the field

Teaching staff

This micro-certification is led by Dr. Marc Pissavini, a recognized leader in the field (ISO, IJCS), as well as:

  • Director of Research in Photoprotection
  • International expert in applied cosmetic sun protection (formulation, SPF/UVA testing, in vitro/in vivo evaluation).
  • Editor of the International Journal of Cosmetic Science.
  • Contributor and facilitator of the ISO/TC217/WG7 working group on photoprotection methods.
  • Author of numerous scientific publications and an international speaker.

Target Audience

  • Professionals in the cosmetics industry (R&D, regulatory affairs, scientific affairs, marketing).
  • Dermatologists, pharmacists, and students of pharmaceutical and cosmetic sciences.
  • Regulatory agencies, health agencies.
  • Science journalists and health and beauty communications professionals.

Level required: Beginners to intermediate.

Program

Day 1 – Scientific Foundations and Evaluation Methods

  • Introduction and Public Health Issues: Electromagnetic Spectrum, UV, Visible Light, IR, Effects on the Skin
  • Environmental factors: latitude, season, altitude, reflection (snow, water, sand), weather
  • Effects of the sun: skin (aging, immunosuppression, cancers, skin diseases)
  • UV filters: organic vs. mineral, mechanisms of action, photostability, formulation interactions
  • Assessment methods: SPF, UVA-PF, CW, supplementary indices
  • ISO Standards: International Validation Process, Feedback

Day 2 – Variability, Regulation, and Outlook

  • Test variability and uncertainty: applied amount, spread, exposure conditions, photostability, water, sweat
  • International regulations: Europe, the United States, Australia, China, Japan
  • Communication & Perception: Claims, Fake News, and Myths in Sun Protection (Mineral vs. Chemical Filters, High SPF)
  • Future Outlook: Alternative Methods (ISO 2024 Validation), Formulation Innovations, Environmental Constraints, New Approaches

Training session

The training will take place on September 23 and 24, 2026 at the Faculty of Sciences at the University of Montpellier.

Prices:

  • With financing: €1,395
  • Self-financing: €985

Are you interested in this training course?

For more information and to apply, contact sfc-fds@umontpellier.fr

View the flyer promoting this micro-certification: