beauty Archives - Vibrant Dermatology

How Do You Know If a Chemical Peel Is Right for You?

Skin rejuvenation might be in your future if you are noticing some of the signs of aging such as fine lines. You may also be seeking an acne treatment that can clear up the skin quickly. In both of these cases, chemical peels might be a great fit for you.

How do you know if you are an ideal chemical peel candidate?

This article will explain to you how chemical peels work, the types that are available at Vibrant Dermatology, and whether you are an ideal client for this treatment.

What Is a Chemical Peel?

Over time, it is completely natural for your skin to start showing the signs of aging, like wrinkles, discoloration, and loss of vibrancy. Chemical peels are an excellent solution for skin rejuvenation, but many of our clients wonder how the process works.

This can sometimes be tricky to answer because there are several types of chemical peels that can be tailored to your individual needs. However, the general process that you can expect to encounter is the same for every variety of peel.

When you come to us for a chemical peel, you’ll be paired with an expert who will help determine exactly which treatment best meets your individual needs.

We will start by thoroughly cleansing your face of any oil, makeup, and impurities. Once the skin has been properly cleaned and prepared, we will apply the specific peeling agent that we determine is the right fit for you.

Sometimes, the peeling agent will need to be washed off following the treatment. Other types, it may remain on the skin for longer periods.

The good news is that you can use a chemical peel to pamper yourself, and it doesn’t have to take all day. For many of our clients, the procedure takes 20 minutes or less.

The actual peeling part of the process will typically start around one to three days after the peel is applied. The peeling part of the process will be over in about five to seven days. Make sure that you are taking excellent care of your skin during this time to speed up the process!

Types of Chemical Peels

There is no such thing as a one-size-fits-all solution for skincare. While the approach behind each chemical peel might be the same, each peel has unique elements designed to achieve specific results.

At Vibrant Dermatology, we offer three major types of peels that each have a unique impact on the skin:

Salicylic Acid or Glycolic Acid Peels
Modified Jessner’s Peel
VI Peel

The salicylic acid or glycolic acid peels are a great option for acne treatment, but they can also target hyperpigmentation, sun damage, and fine lines. This particular treatment is relatively mild compared to slightly stronger formulas like the Modified Jessner’s peel.

With the stronger effects of the Modified Jessner’s peel, you can start to see results in a single session, with many of our clients reporting a change in texture. It can also be used as an acne treatment, for sun damage, scarring, fine lines, and discoloration.

Last but not least, you may want to explore the VI peel with Vibrant Dermatology. This custom blend of peeling agents can produce effects in under a week. While it is primarily used to combat the effects of hyperpigmentation, it also has other uses including fighting the effects of acne, fine lines, wrinkles, and sun damage.

Post-Treatment Care for Skin Rejuvenation

If you think that a chemical peel might be the right answer to rejuvenate your skin, then you need to know how to best care for your skin after the treatment. During the peeling process, which can last for up to a week following your chemical peel, you will need to be more cautious about taking care of your skin.

For example, you will need to avoid all products that could damage sensitive skin, such as:

Retinoids
Glycolic and salicylic acid products
Facial scrubs or waxing
Microdermabrasion

During the first week following the peel, you will also need to be diligent about your daily skincare routine. Applying a quality moisturizer and sunscreen should be on your to-do list every morning before you leave the house.

The Ideal Candidate for a Chemical Peel

If you are thinking about adding a chemical peel to your busy schedule, you need to know if you are the ideal candidate. A chemical peel can work on all skin tones, complexions, and hues. However, they tend to work best on those with lighter skin and hair.

Fear not if you have a darker complexion. You will simply need to discuss your options further with one of our providers.

The ideal candidate for skin rejuvenation through this treatment will have moderate fine lines or wrinkles. More severe wrinkles or dynamic wrinkles—usually located on the forehead or between the eyebrows—will require a different type of treatment.

Keep in mind that chemical peels are also great as an acne treatment. You may have to come in more frequently to treat acne effectively. Many of our patients see the best results by coming in for a new chemical peel every two weeks until they see the desired result. From here, you can start to space out your appointments to maintain your improved skin long-term.

Book Your Consultation Today

If you think you could be a great candidate for a chemical peel, why wait another day? Give Vibrant Dermatology in Dedham, MA, a call today to schedule your consultation.

All you have to do is let us know that you want to take advantage of our chemical peel process, and we will help you figure out the rest.

Caring For Your Skin During Pregnancy

You’re expecting, congrats!

I’m sure you’ve covered the list of foods to avoid when pregnant. Have you considered the changes that you might need to make in your skin care routine? Some topical ingredients are absorbed into the bloodstream and could affect your growing baby. Plus, the hormonal changes happening in your body could cause your skin to change. I learned a ton of great tips during my two pregnancies, which will help to keep your skin beautiful during your pregnancy.

First things first, there are a few things to definitely avoid. No lasers, no injectables, no acids, no retinoids. Stick to a gentle cleanser, lotion and sunscreen. My recommended skin-care routine for pregnant and breastfeeding mothers includes:

Cleanse – Pick a gentle cleanser that removes all of your makeup, rinses off easily and leaves your skin non-irritated with no redness or after wash tightness. My go to is Cetaphil Cleanser.
Exfoliation – When not pregnant, a chemical exfoliation is my go-to. Since the beta hydroxy acids, such as salicylic acid are a no-go during pregnancy, I opt for a physical exfoliation. One to two times a week I will use a scrub to help slough off dead skin and keep my skin glowing.
Moisturize – Keeping your skin nice and moist helps with minimizing signs of aging and will help ward off any itchiness and redness. Hydration is also super important, be sure to drink plenty of water every day.
Sunscreen – At a bare minimum, SPF 15 with broad spectrum UVA and UVB coverage, but SPF 30 is even better! In the summer time, I recommend SPF 50. Some of my favorite brands are Cerave Am lotion and Aveeno positively radiant, both contain spf 30. Do not rely on your makeup for SPF. As your hormones run amok you may notice what is typically called the ‘mask of pregnancy’, Melasma. Reducing your exposure to UV rays will help prevent Melasma (as well as spots, burns and wrinkles) so be sure to cover up!

As your body reacts to the new pregnancy hormones in your body you may notice some not-so-nice changes, including:

Acne – Hormone fluctuations during pregnancy can cause breakouts. Cleansing daily with a cleanser that contains alpha-hydroxy acid, such as glycolic acid, can keep breakouts to a minimum. Cleanse twice daily and if breakouts are severe, follow up with a board-certified dermatologist, as there are certain safe medications you can use during pregnancy. They include medications like clindamycin gel and azeliac acid cream.

Moles & skin tags – these may start popping up everywhere and will continue to grow during your pregnancy. Rarely, the hormones of pregnancy may cause some moles to become atypical. If anything suspicious crops up, go see your doctor right away to rule out skin cancer. In general, we do not remove moles in pregnancy unless medically necessary.

To help combat dull, dry skin during pregnancy, take a daily DHA/Omega-3 supplement to promote baby’s growth and developed. Added benefit: it will also reduce inflammation and promote glowing skin. Also, be sure to consume “good fats” such as fatty fish (salmon), flax seeds and walnuts, and avocado to enhance skin’s elasticity and natural glow.

Pregnant or not, join my Beauty Club to learn more about how to take the best care of yourself. I’ll be sharing skin tips, hosting giveaways and having some great promotions so join today!

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Eleven Superfoods For Gorgeous Skin

Although a great skin care routine is important for gorgeous skin, your diet also plays an important role in the way you look. Simply changing your diet to a healthier alternative can be the key to improving your skin’s overall appearance. I’ve compiled a list of eleven superfoods that will help your skin look amazing.

Blueberries – This berry was ranked number one in antioxidant activity by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (compared to 40 common fruits and vegetables). A half cup of these berries every day will provide antioxidants to protect you from premature aging.

Wild Salmon – This beauty superfood is loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, selenium and vitamin D which will help to keep your skin supple and moisturized, protect the skin from sun exposure and keep your bones and teeth strong and healthy. There must be at least a hundred different ways to prepare salmon which makes it an easy one to add to your diet. My favorite is grilled with a side of asparagus. Make sure you are buying wild salmon – not farm-raised.

Mackerel – Another fish that is loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, selenium and vitamin E. There are some great health benefits from mackerel and check out these great mackerel recipes.

Spinach – Leafy and green, this vegetable is full of lutein (keeps your eyes healthy and sparkling) and is a good source of vitamins B, C, and E, potassium, calcium, iron, magnesium, and omega-3 fatty acids. I like to throw a handful of spinach in my smoothie in the morning.

Oysters – If you can get past the sliminess of these guys, they are a great source of zinc which aids in skin cell renewal and repair (and also keeps your nails, hair and eyes healthy).

Tomatoes – The very best anti-aging antioxidant, lycopene, is found in tomatoes. Research has shown that lycopene is more easily absorbed by the body when consumed in cooked tomato products, rather than fresh tomatoes.

Walnuts – Just a handful will do – either on their own or tossed into a salad – benefits from nutrients like Omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin E include smoother skin, healthy hair, brighter eyes and strong bones.

Kiwis – This fruit is known as the leading source of Vitamin C which keeps skin young and vibrant. Kiwi also provides Vitamin E and antioxidants which keep skin firm, help prevent wrinkles, and are great for healthy bones and teeth.

Dark Chocolate – It’s true! This treat is good for you. When enjoyed in moderation, the flavonoids in dark chocolate absorb UV light, help protect and increase blood flow to the skin, and improve skin’s hydration and complexion. Moderation is key – stick to no more than three ounces per day.

Yogurt – A great calcium source – which helps with posture, nails and teeth. High in acidic nature, yogurt can help destroy various acne-causing bacteria, fungus, and germs within the body. Make sure you are buying plain, unsweetened yogurt.

Sweet Potatoes – Packed with beta-carotene, an antioxidant that fights aging by offering significant protection against ultraviolet radiation from the sun, adding these to your diet is a great idea. My kids especially love when we add roasted sweet potatoes to the dinner menu.

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11 Ways to Make Your Pores Look Smaller

As posted on http://www.goodhousekeeping.com/beauty/anti-aging/a35847/how-to-minimize-pores/

Pores — they’re so tiny, they shouldn’t be that visible, right? Oh, if that were only true. Some of us have noticeable pores, and we’re not too happy about it. Unfortunately, you can’t physically reduce their size without seeing a dermatologist, but you can make them look less obvious. Thanks to a few pro tips and tricks, there are ways to make them (almost!) disappear.

1. Keep your face clean.

“When dirt clogs the pores, they expand and appear larger,” explains dermatologist Dr. Margarita Lolis. “So, it’s important to always wash your face with a gentle cleanser, especially before bedtime, to remove any extra dirt and grease.” On top of cleansing every day, always use clean makeup brushes and never touch your face with your fingers. Your complexion will thank you.

2. Before you put on your foundation, use a primer.

Yes, you can camouflage their appearance with makeup. And primer is great option says Laramie, pro makeup artist and founder of Book Your Look. But that’s not all: “You can also use the ‘blurring’ foundations that are so popular right now,” she adds.

3. Be gentle with your skin.

Aggressive cleansing, exfoliating, and skin picking can cause wrinkles and lead to worsened acne, but going too rough on your skin can also damage your pores. “Be gentle so you don’t expand your pores, which you can do permanently,” warns esthetician Mariola Barczewska of Haven Spa. Already damaged your pores? Barczewska advises taking it especially easy so your skin can heal properly.

4. Get facials every month or so.

Barczewska recommends seeing a facialist every four to six weeks. Why? A little professional extraction and exfoliation can help clean out your pores, so you wind up with clearer, healthier skin. If this seems a little too indulgent for you, consider getting one a couple times a year or on special occasions like your birthday.

5. Exfoliate regularly.

While keeping your face clean is so important, it’s the act of getting rid of dead skin cells that really keeps your complexion looking its best. “Exfoliation can be achieved in a number of ways, both physical and chemical,” says Dr. Joyce Imahiyerobo-Ip, dermatologist and consultant for HydroPeptide. “Gentle cleansers containing low concentrations of salicylic acid (.5% – 1%) or lactic or glycolic acid (2.5% – 5%) will stimulate cell turnover and keep pores clean.”

6. Keep your skin extra hydrated.

Yes, you can start by drinking a lot of water. But you could also use a hydrating serum before putting on moisturizer. “It helps shrink your pores by plumping up the surrounding skin,” explains Dr. Craig Kraffert, dermatologist and president of Amarte. Just make sure you exfoliate often so your hydrator can really work its magic.

7. Add a retinoid to your skincare routine.

“Using a prescription-strength topical retinoid, such as Retin-A, can increase cell turnover, thus exfoliating the pore and making them appear smaller,” says Dr. Lolis.

8. Don’t skip your moisturizer, even for a day.

You already know lots of bad stuff can happen if you stop moisturizing, and enlarged pores are just another one. “It’s important to use a high-quality, noncomedogenic moisturizer twice a day,” says Dr. Joyce Imahiyerobo-Ip. “If you leave your skin to get dry, it will respond by producing excessive amounts of oil that can clog your pores.” If you’re not sure exactly how to apply it most effectively, we’ve got this handy tutorial to show you how.

9. Use sunscreen no matter what.

You’ve heard it once, you’ve heard it a thousand times, but that’s because it’s totally true: SPF is an integral part of your skincare routine. “UV radiation breaks down collagen and elastin, thus expanding the pore,” warns Dr. Lolis. “So the best way to prevent your pores from becoming enlarged is to protect yourself from the sun.” Warning: Some sunscreens can make your skin appear shinier or oilier, thus accentuating your pores. In that case, opt for a matte finish primer, foundation, or powder to minimize that effect.

10. Find the right face mask.

One easy, luxurious, and relatively inexpensive way you can get smaller-looking pores: masks. “At-home treatments such as masks and peels work with consistent longterm use,” says Dr. Joyce Imahiyerobo-Ip. “Masks containing ingredients such as clay or charcoal work by absorbing oil out of pores.” Plus, if you have multiple types of problem areas, you can try the multi-masking technique.

11. Head to the dermatologist for a laser treatment.

That’s right: Lasers can help reduce your actual pore size. “A series of treatments with nonablative lasers can help reduce pores by building collagen, thereby plumping the skin and shrinking pores,” explains Dr. Lolis. Bonus: This treatment has minimal downtime.

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Dr. Ip’s Tips for 4 Decades of Beautiful

On January 17th, our first lady, Michelle Obama, turned the big 5-0, and in an interview with PEOPLE magazine she admitted that she will not rule out the idea of Botox, fillers, or plastic surgery.

“Women should have the freedom to do whatever they need to do to feel good about themselves,” she states. As a dermatologist, I could not agree more!

In fact, a study in the Journal of Modern Aesthetics reported that 69 percent of women ages 45 to 60 feel at least 6 years younger than their chronological age.

The women studied said that when it comes to reversing signs of aging, they want a natural result and want to be the best version of themselves they can be, without looking too different. So, in honor of the season of love, I’d like to challenge all my patients to work toward loving the skin that they are in.

Here are my tips for 4 Decades of Beautiful Skin.

In Your 20s:

The number one skin complaint of my twenty-something year old patients is acne. Yes, acne.

It’s a myth that acne is something that only teenagers deal with. Furthermore, many people inadvertently worsen their acne through the inconsistent use of prescription acne medicines and by using harsh products that strip the skin of natural oils.

Plan

– Use gentle skin care products, and work on acne prevention.

– Wash your face once or twice a day (if you have an oily skin type) with a gentle cleanser such as Cetaphil.

– Generally, if you have acne, only prescription medications or acne lasers really work. If you have a prescription, you must use that prescription even when your skin is clear.

Remember it’s all about PREVENTION. Most importantly, wear a moisturizer with sunscreen. It’s anti-aging and can soothe irritated, sensitive acne-prone skin.

In Your 30s:

Even if you have taken good care of your skin, you may begin to notice subtle signs of aging in your 30s. This includes fine lines and wrinkles, as well as hyperpigmented sun spots and melasma that give you a mottled uneven complexion.

Plan

Continue with good skin care habits–gentle cleanser and sunscreen.
You may want to consider asking your dermatologist to prescribe a topical retinoid, which is great for acne and is also anti-aging. (Every dermatologist uses one!)
It’s also a good idea to consider twice yearly chemical peels, which will exfoliate the skin and help you to maintain an even complexion.
If your skin is too sensitive for retinoids or peels, over-the-counter glycolic acid washes will gently exfoliate your skin and slowly help to improve unwanted hyperpigmentation.

In Your 40s:

Close-up portrait of happy faces of smiling friendly young famile with son

Many forty-year-old women feel even more physically fit than they did in their 20s. There is no reason your skin shouldn’t follow suit. However, those beach vacations, tanning, and years of not wearing sunscreen can really show up on your face. In your 40s, you have to work harder to maintain that youthful glow.

Plan

– Your dermatologist should be your best friend, with new state-of-the-art lasers such as the IPL photofacials and the Vbeam laser, your doctor can help you erase years of damage in a little as 20 minutes. What I love about these lasers is that patients experience little downtime—just minor redness usually—that can be covered with make-up.

– With respect to your home skin routine, I recommend using a gentle, creamy (rather than gel) cleanser morning and night.

– Supplement your broad-spectrum sunscreen with serums or lotions that contain antioxidants, such as green-tea and vitamin C.

Fifty and Fabulous:

Turning fifty does not mean that you can retire from your skin care game! It’s never too late to prevent sun damage, and skin cancer for that matter, with sunscreen.
However, in your 50s physiological changes slow skin cell turnover, and as a result you may notice significant skin dryness, and loss of elasticity. Expression lines may become etched into your skin, giving you a tired or angry appearance. You may also notice rough, scaly, precancerous lesions developing.

First and foremost, make sure that you see your dermatologist for an annual skin exam. With respect to anti-aging tips, neurotoxins like Botox® and Dysport® and fillers like Sculptra, Restylane, and Perlane, have completely revolutionized your dermatologist’s anti-aging armamentarium. You DO NOT have to go under the knife to replace volume loss and to address deep wrinkles. Many of these procedures have minimal downtown, and the results can last for up to 2 years with products like Sculptra!

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10 Things You Should Know Before Getting Your Face Waxed

As posted on http://www.goodhousekeeping.com/beauty/anti-aging/a35411/waxing-facial-hair-female/

1. What’s the difference between face waxing and sugaring?

With all the different kinds of hair removal on the menu, it can get confusing to navigate what is what and which one is right for you. Here’s a quick rundown.

“Face waxing when you use a warm resin base that is applied to an area and then removed either with a strip or let dry and removed on its own, taking hairs out by the root,” explains esthetician Marta Grochowska of New York City’s Haven Spa. On the other hand, “sugaring is a warm sugar and lemon mix that’s applied to the skin and rolled across, thereby removing the hairs,” she adds.

2. Will waxing hurt my skin?

“If you’re very prone to breakouts, especially if you have acne mechanica, you should consider other options like electrolysis or laser,” advises Grochowska. (See #4 on this list for why your acne treatments are always necessary to disclose.)

More serious medical conditions, too, can play a part in whether face waxing negatively affects you. “If you have an autoimmune disease like lupus, your skin is way more sensitive to getting burned or irritated,” warns Dr. Joyce Imahiyerobo-Ip, board-certified dermatologist and consultant for HydroPeptide. If you’re not sure whether your skin could be at risk, especially if you plan on doing a wax at home without an esthetician’s expertise, consult with a dermatologist first. Dermarolling Lips

3. Will the hair grow back thicker?

“The hair generally grows back the same — though everyone seems to have their own theory or old wives tale about it,” says Grochowska, who adds that generally, most people find that long-term waxing results in less regrowth. That said, the hair “will seem thicker if it’s broken than if it’s removed at the root” because it won’t have a tapered end.

4. Can my skincare routine affect how the wax works?

Listen up! “Topical treatments like Retin-A and Differin thin the skin, making it much more sensitive and prone to tears and peeling,” warns Grochowska. But these aren’t the only meds you should be mindful of before getting a wax, oral medications can put you at risk, too: “Accutane and many antibiotics will make your skin hypersensitive.”

5. What’s “double dipping” and why should I avoid it?

Double dipping is when the practitioner dips the stick into the wax, applies the wax to the skin, then dips the stick into the wax again for the next application, explains Grochowska. Basically, a big no no. Why? Bacteria and pathogens form one person’s skin can get introduced back into the pot, passing onto the next person. One woman even got an STD through this practice, so even if the spa is otherwise wonderful, it’s better to be safe than sorry.

6. Will I be red afterwards?

When you tear out hair and pull at your skin with wax, there’s a chance you will wind up with a little irritation. “Some people are red for a few minutes, some are red for 12 hours,” says Grochowska. “If you’ve never been waxed before or you’re trying a new place or wax, it’s best to err on the side of caution and give yourself plenty of time to recuperate.” If you’ve got a big event to go to and want to prep your brows or lip, schedule your wax a few days beforehand to ensure any redness goes down.

7. Okay, so how do I make the irritation go away?

Most of the time, you just have to wait it out, but there are ways to help speed up the process. “Most people respond well to aloe gel,” says Grochowska. Dr. Imahiyerobo-Ip also advises using a little over-the-counter hydrocortisone to soothe the skin.

8. How long will it take to grow back?

The annoying thing about shaving is that if you’re particularly hairy, stubble will probably start cropping up within a day or two, which isn’t so much of a problem with waxing. “The great thing about waxing is that it’s semi-permanent — it lasts two to eight weeks,” says Dr. Imahiyerobo-Ip.

9. How can I tell if I’m having a bad reaction?

A little redness and irritation is normal, but there are some signs that you may be having more than the average reaction. If you’re noticing little pimples or pus-filled bumps around the waxed area, you could be experiencing folliculitis, which is an inflammation of the hair follicles, explains Dr. Imahiyerobo-Ip. While folliculitis can occur simply from the trauma of waxing, it can also be caused by exposure to bacteria in the wax and result in an infection. If this is the case, Dr. Imahiyerobo-Ip advises heading straight to the dermatologist.

Another big red flag: significant redness, swelling, and pain, which could indicate an allergy to the wax. “Wax contains a lot of additives like colors, fragrances, and essential oils that people may be allergic to, which we call contact dermatitis,” explains Dr. Imahiyerobo-Ip. “That won’t go away on its own — you may need topical medications or even oral meds,” so see a doctor as quickly as you can.

10. Is it safe to wax at home?

If you take all precautions and follow all the directions properly, like doing a patch test to check for an allergy, waxing at home can be safe. “A common mistake I see in at-home waxing procedures is not having a good gauge on the temperature of wax,” says Dr. Imahiyerobo-Ip. While burns can happen anywhere, even at a reputable spa, she warns that they’re more likely when waxing at home. “People think if they leave it on a little longer, it will be more effective, but you can get a temperature burn.” If your skin gets torn off along with the wax, you could put yourself at risk for scarring or an infection.

Another bad habit to avoid: Waxing on a day you’re doing lots of other treatments. “People do their waxing in the context of a ‘spa day,’ so they do it along with peels, face scrubs, and face masks, which make you more susceptible to negative reactions from the wax,” says Dr. Imahiyerobo-Ip. “For my patients who use retinoids or peels, I recommend they opt for other forms of hair removal like threading, which just grabs the hair instead of the skin and the hair.”

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When it comes to skin cancer, early detection is Key…

Did you know that skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States? Current estimates are that 1 in 5 Americans will be diagnosed with skin cancer in their lifetime. Fortunately, most skin cancers, including melanoma, can be cured if detected early. Yet one American dies from melanoma every hour. In 2014, that means an estimated 9,480 people will lose their lives to melanoma.

That’s why it’s important for you to know the simple steps that you can take to protect yourself from skin cancer, such as wearing protective clothing and applying sunscreen every day. Checking your skin for skin cancer is as simple as looking for anything changing, itching or bleeding. Consult a dermatologist if you notice anything suspicious. If you have not had your annual skin exam, we encourage you to schedule an appointment today. These simple steps can help ensure that skin cancer is diagnosed in its earliest, most treatable stage. Dermarolling Lips

ABCD’s of early melanoma detection: Consult your dermatologist immediately if any of your moles or pigmented spots exhibit:

A = Asymmetry

One half is unlike the other half

B = Border

An irregular, scalloped or poorly defined border

C = Color

Is varied from one area to another; has shades of tan, brown, or black, or is sometimes white, red, or blue

D = Diameter

Melanomas are usually greater than 6mm (the size of a pencil eraser) when diagnosed, but they can be smaller

E = Evolving

A mole or skin lesion that looks different from the rest or is changing in size, shape or color.

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The Importance of Applying Sunscreen

Believe it or not, summer will be here sooner than we think. To help usher in spring, I thought it would be a good idea to offer a refresher on how to select and apply sunscreen. Rain or shine, sunscreen should be your best friend. Not only does sunscreen help prevent skin cancer, it also helps prevent wrinkles! However, it is not effective unless it’s applied correctly. Your skin is exposed to the sun’s harmful UV rays every time you go outside, even on cloudy days and in the winter, so sunscreen should really be used year round. Remember, Healthy Skin is In! Dermarolling Lips

American Academy of Dermatology Recommendations for Sunscreen Application:

– Choose sunscreen that has an SPF of 30 or higher, is water resistant, and provides broad-spectrum coverage, which means it protects you from UVA and UVB rays.

– Apply sunscreen generously before going outdoors. It takes approximately 15 minutes for your skin to absorb the sunscreen and protect you. If you wait until you are in the sun to apply sunscreen, your skin is unprotected and can burn.

– Use enough sunscreen. Most adults need at least one ounce of sunscreen, about the amount you can hold in your palm, to fully cover all exposed areas of your body. Rub the sunscreen thoroughly into your skin.

– Apply sunscreen to all bare skin. Remember your neck, face, ears, tops of your feet and legs. For hard‐to‐reach areas like your back, ask someone to help you or use a spray sunscreen. If you have thinning hair, either apply sunscreen to your scalp or wear a wide‐brimmed hat. To protect your lips, apply a lip balm with a SPF of at least 15.

– Reapply sunscreen at least every two hours to remain protected, or immediately after swimming or excessively sweating.

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Is Your Manicure Increasing Your Risk of Skin Cancer?

Manicure and Hands Spa. Beautiful Woman hands closeup. Manicured nails and Soft skin. Beauty hands with rose flower petals. Beauty treatment. Beautiful woman’s nails with beautiful french manicure

June is here and summer is just around the corner, even if Mother Nature hasn’t caught on yet! For many women, summer is a time to get our “groove back,” break out the new summer dresses, try out a new hair color, and of course get our regular manicures and pedicures. Summer is also a time when the sun’s UV rays are most intense, which means that most people will try to up their sunscreen protection in order to lower their risk of dangerous skin cancers.

However, there is increasing evidence that a seemingly benign manicure can substantially increase an individual’s risk of skin cancer. The good news is that not all manicures are risky; the bad news is that the extremely popular and convenient gel manicure is the culprit.

Gel polish is now offered at most nail salons with many brands and colors from which to chose. This manicure not only lasts longer than a traditional one—up to two weeks—but also offers the added convenience of being completely hardened with no drying time at all. The problem with gel manicures is that they require curing the polish four times under a UV light with each manicure. The UV light used in gel manicures is similar to that used in tanning booths, which have long been associated with an increased incidence of the most dangerous and deadly type of skin cancer, melanoma.

So, what’s a gal to do? First of all, you should know that there are alternatives that can be long lasting and safe. For example, Creative Nail Design’s Vinylux polish uses natural daylight to cure nail polish progressively over a week. It is applied just like regular nail polish, does not require a UV light box like gel manicures, and promises a full week of chip free wear. I’ve seen this polish at a few salons on the South Shore, but if your salon does not have it yet, you can order the color and top coat system online. If you are reluctant to let go of your gel manicures, you can still take steps to protect your hands from skin cancer. You can apply a high SPF, broad spectrum sunscreen to your hands 20 minutes before your manicure. Another solution is to buy sunscreen impregnated gloves with SPF 50. Cut the tips off so that you can get your manicure while exposing the least amount of skin to the harmful UV rays. You can find these gloves online from Coolibar. Follow these steps and your hands will thank you. Remember, healthy skin is in!

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Surviving the Polar Vortex

It goes without saying that it’s been a rough winter! Although spring is theoretically around the corner, this harsh winter weather has definitely taken a toll on my patients’ skin. At least three to four times a day, I see patients who come in with a rash that is infamously known as the “winter itch.” What is the winter itch? It’s a type of eczema that results from dry winter skin. Winter itch is something that almost all New Englanders are susceptible to.

If you are over the age of 65, your risk of winter itch is even higher. In fact, according to a report from the National Health Interview Survey (NHIS), 81 million Americans claim to experience dry, itchy or scaly skin during the winter months.

So here is what you can do to survive these last few weeks of winter and repair your skin in time for spring! Here’s to healthy skin.

Add humidity to your home. Given the sub-zero temps we’ve been having, most of us have cranked up the heat. Unfortunately, this dries out your skin. Portable humidifiers or those that work with your heating system put moisture in the air that will be absorbed by your skin and hair.

Use an oil-based moisturizer. Ointments or heavy creams seal water in the skin and preserve moisture. Good old vaseline is my favorite emollient ointment. If you cannot tolerate that, then I also like Cerave cream, which is widely available. Dermarolling Lips

Quick Short Showers. Frequent bathing or hot showers or baths can strip your skin of natural oils. Avoid deodorant bars and perfumed soaps, as well as alcohol-based products. Showers should be luke-warm and no more than 10 minutes. When you get out of the shower, pat your skin dry and moisturize immediately.

If you have a rash, seek help: Even with the best Dermatologist Boston, some people will still develop full blown eczema, which is basically a red itch rash. If this happens to you, you’ll want to make an appointment to see a dermatologist right away. Eczema can usually be treated with topical medication, although sometimes stronger oral medications are necessary.

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