New York, NY (September 29, 2008) – The Skin Cancer Foundation announced today that almost $900,000 was raised during their annual Skin Sense Award Gala Tuesday night. Actor Rosanna Arquette led the group of 450 beauty executives as the host for the festivities, which included a special performance by singer/song writer Jon McLauhglin. Attendees included Peter Thomas, Roth, Ole Henriksen, Lauren Moffatt, Frederick Anderson and Douglas Hannant, Charla Krupp, Jean Godfrey-June, Lawrence Robins,  and last year’s honorees Val Monroe and Colleen Goggins, just to name a few. The night also brought out some of New York City’s top dermatologists including, Dr. Doris Day, Dr. Amy Wechsler, Dr. Darrick Antell, Dr. Deborah S. Sarnoff and Dr. Robert H. Gotkin.

The Skin Sense Award Gala honors those who have played a pivotal role in educating the public about the importance of sun protection at a time when skin cancer is increasing at epidemic rates. This year’s event honored David Suliteanu, president and chief executive officer of Sephora USA was honored alongside beauty expert, Lois Joy Johnson, the former beauty and fashion director of More magazine. Dr. Jonathan Levine, co-founder of GoSmile presented the award to Suliteanu, while Dr. Daniel C. Baker, top plastic surgeon and gala benefit chair, introduced Johnson.

“We are delighted with the success of this year’s event,” said Perry Robins, MD, President, and The Skin Cancer Foundation. “We’ve had tremendous support and we are very appreciative to everyone involved.”

The gala brought together foremost dermatologists and 450 leaders in the beauty, cosmetic, fragrance, skin care, fashion, retail, and publishing industries who are committed to the Foundation’s mission of increasing public and professional awareness about the prevention, detection, and treatment of skin cancer.  All proceeds from the gala will fund The Skin Cancer Foundation’s national public education campaign focusing on prevention and early detection of skin cancer.