How to deal with dry skin during the winter months

 

Winter is coming and so is the dry, itchy skin!  Here are a few pointers on how to cope:

1.       Use only lukewarm water in the shower. The hotter the water, the drier your skin becomes.

2.       Use soap only as needed. Try using a gentle soap like Cetaphil or Dove only where you need it: underarms, feet, groin, etc.

3.       IMMEDIATELY after showering, smear on a thick moisturizer and then towel dry.  This helps seal in the moisture from the shower.  I like Vanicream Skin Cream and Vanicream Lite Skin Lotion.  If you are very dry, consider using Vaseline or Aquaphor.

4.       You may need it a few times a day!  Everyone’s skin is unique and some folks are drier than others.  Especially if you are prone to sensitive skin or eczema, you may need moisturizer morning, noon, and night.  If your skin still appears ashy or scaly, you need more moisturizer!

 

 

     

How to improve the appearance of your pores

How to improve the appearance of your pores

 

1.       Wash twice daily and be gentle. Try to avoid picking, squeezing, and scrubbing which can damage pores.

2.       Consider using a glycolic acid or salicylic acid face wash. These are common products that are sold over the counter.

3.       Try a Clarisonic device to gently cleanse your face.

4.       Your dermatologist can prescribe a retinoid such as Retin-A or Tazorac which can help clean out the pores and boost collagen production to tighten the pores.

5.       Dermatologists and plastic surgeons can offer laser treatments which can help even out the skin texture and boost collagen production.

6.   Wear your sunscreen.  Ultraviolet light damages collagen and elastic fibers in the skin allowing the pores to open wider.
 

 

Skin cancer prevention handbook

http://www.skincancer.org/prevention/graphics/handbook

How to spot skin cancer

http://www.skincancer.org/prevention/graphics/exam



Can having a base tan reduce further sun damage?

Myth: Since a base tan can prevent sunburn, does that mean I am reducing sun damage and skin aging by tanning?

Busted! 

Tanning is a sign the skin has already been injured.  Tanning is the body's attempt to prevent further harm by producing extra pigment.  UV light damages skin cell's DNA, which causes tanning, but also accelerates skin aging and increases skin cancer risk.  Never lay out to get a tan and NEVER go to tanning beds!  It only takes one damaged skin cell to start a skin cancer.

 

Below are some sunscreens that I recommend you keep on hand for yourself and for your kids.

 

        

Is my skin too far gone?

Myth:  I have already had years of sun damage, there is no reason to start protecting my skin now.

Busted!

This type of thinking is false!  It is never too late to start protecting your skin.  Sun damage is cumulative and the best time to start protecting it is now!  In a study from Australia(1), patients of all different ages who used SPF 15+ daily for 14 years, reduced their risk of melanoma by 50%.  Using sunscreen daily allows the skin a chance to use its own repair mechanisms.

Below are some sunscreens that I recommend you keep on hand for yourself and for your kids.

 

        

 

1. Green AC, Williams GM, Logan V, Strutton GM. Reduced melanoma after regular sunscreen use: randomized trial follow-up. Journ Clin Oncol 2011; 29(3):257-63. doi: 10.1200/JCO.2010.28.7078.

Baby sun protection

The first 18 years of life are crucial for preventing sun damage. For babies 6 months and younger, try to avoid being outside for extended periods of time in order to prevent overheating and protect against sunburns. Keep in mind that sunscreen is not typically recommended for use on babies under 6 months so it's best to stay in doors.
When you do venture out, reach for rash guard swim suits and floppy hats to protect those kiddos. After 6 months of age, sunscreen can be used, so make sure you are applying the right amount to keep your baby's skin beautiful. I recommend mineral based sun protection like Aveeno Baby mineral block, CeraVe Baby sunscreen, Vanicream sunscreen and EltaMD UV pure.  For older kids, the sprays and sticks are nice for ease of use. Just make sure you are getting a thorough enough coating for adequate protection. After using a spray, the skin should be glistening and moist. Protect those kiddos now and they will thank you later!