La Roche-Posay Canada announces Sophie Thibault as new ambassador for its oncology cause in Quebec
Recognized journalist Sophie Thibault, who was diagnosed with skin cancer, is partnering with La Roche-Posay to promote early detection, sun protection, and skin health across Quebec.
MONTREAL, Sept. 22, 2026 /CNW/ -- Following a deeply personal battle with skin cancer, iconic Quebec broadcaster, Sophie Thibault is joining forces with La Roche-Posay as the new brand ambassador for its social oncology cause in Quebec. As Canada's leading sun care brand and the #1 dermatologist-recommended skincare brand in the world[1], La Roche-Posay is proud to partner with one of Quebec's most trusted public figures to elevate the conversation around skin health. Leveraging her 37-year pioneering career and lived experience, Thibault is lending her powerful voice to shift public habits, urging Quebecers to take minor skin changes seriously, practice daily sun protection, and prioritize early detection. Sophie Thibault delivers a clear message: "Early detection, followed by proper sun protection, is what makes all the difference when it comes to preventing skin cancer."
In 2017, what initially looked like a harmless bump on Thibault's forehead turned out to be skin cancer, leading to complex facial surgery, treatment, and reconstruction.
"It was a small bump on my forehead, nothing alarming, and the procedure that followed was especially difficult because it affected my face – my identity," shared Sophie Thibault. "With skin cancer, you know when it starts, but you don't know when it ends. Ten years after my treatment, I still have worries."
Her experience also exposed the grueling reality of treatment side effects. After her surgery and topical chemotherapy treatments, her skin became extremely sensitive and reactive.
"After my surgery and chemo cream treatments, my skin would turn red and burn at the slightest contact," added Thibault. "What saved me was cutting out anything that could irritate it, simplifying my routine down to ultra-gentle formulas. When skin is under stress, you need to go back to basics to help it heal."
This journey from personal survival to collective advocacy forms the foundation of her partnership with La Roche-Posay. Skin cancer rates continue to climb across the country, affecting 1 in 59 men and 1 in 73 women over their lifetime. To combat these statistics, La Roche-Posay and Thibault are rolling out a comprehensive awareness campaign featuring prevention-focused videos and core visual assets.
"Having gone through skin cancer myself, prevention is a crucial fight," noted Thibault. "Partnering with La Roche-Posay, Canada's number-one sun care brand and the most recommended by dermatologists, was an obvious choice. Together, we're joining forces to change these statistics and protect skin health."
Dr. Joël Claveau, a dermatologist specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of melanoma and skin cancers, reinforces that prevention remains non-negotiable, stating that there is no such thing as a safe tan because UV rays fundamentally damage our skin.
"There's no such thing as a safe tan, because UV rays damage our skin," emphasized Dr. Joël Claveau. "Staying alert to changes in the skin is key. A wound that doesn't heal, bleeds, or a new lesion that draws attention are signs that deserve evaluation by a healthcare professional immediately."
Building on its long-standing support for healthcare networks, research centres, and NGOs providing services to people affected by cancer, the brand continues its commitment to high-quality dermatological protection and patient support.
"The partnership between La Roche-Posay and Sophie Thibault reflects our deep commitment to skin cancer prevention and awareness in Quebec," said Loulwa Rahbani, General Manager of La Roche-Posay. "Thanks to her courage and advocacy, we will be able to reach and educate even more Canadians on the critical importance of sun protection and early detection."
Officially launching on September 22, 2026, Thibault and La Roche-Posay aim to normalize conversations around skin cancer and make prevention an accessible, everyday habit. By sharing her story with openness, Thibault hopes to remind Quebecers that early screening and proper sun protection make all the difference.
ABOUT LA ROCHE-POSAY
La Roche-Posay is the #1 skincare brand in Canada and the #1 dermatologist-recommended skincare brand in the country. La Roche-Posay works closely with the medical community to make expert skincare accessible to all. The brand supports scientific research and public health initiatives focused on skin health and cancer prevention.
ABOUT SOPHIE THIBAULT
Sophie Thibault is one of Quebec's most recognized media personalities, following a 37-year career at TVA. A pioneering journalist, she became the first woman in North America to anchor a major late-night television newscast solo in 2002. Today an accomplished photographer, Sophie has also chosen to speak openly about her experience with skin cancer, which was diagnosed in 2017. Over the years, she has undergone several treatments, particularly on her face, including surgery followed by reconstructive procedures. Her experience has led her to actively raise awareness about the risks of sun exposure, the importance of prevention, and regular dermatological monitoring. In 2026, she also participated in the documentary La face cachée du soleil, which focuses on skin cancer prevention and won the Gémeaux Award for Best Direction in the "Documentary Program – Sports, Health, Nature, Science and Environment" category. Her personal journey gives her a unique and authentic perspective to support La Roche-Posay's oncology-focused cause and help promote prevention and support for people affected by cancer.
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1 Market research conducted by APLUSA and other partners between January 2024 and May 2024 among dermatologists across 34 countries, representing more than 80% of global GDP. |
SOURCE La Roche-Posay
Media Contact: Isabelle Ngai, [email protected]; Molly Desjardins, [email protected]
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