As a dermatologist, I am very interested in new advances that might help reduce the incidence of skin cancer in my patients. I recently read an article on the role of micronutrients, particularly n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, in reducing the effects of u.v. exposure and therefore both photo-ageing and skin cancer. The article mentioned a systemic agent which could be orally administered. Is this research indeed a promising advance in preventing skin cancer, and, if so, what is the anticipated time-frame for developing the agent?