With summer approaching, I can’t help but start thinking more about my skin.
Next time you’re headed to the doctor, keep some of these questions in mind.
Do I really have to wear sunscreen for a quick errand?
This is a question that I’ve never asked, because I didn’t want to know the answer.
However, it truly is a question that needs to be considered.
“It’s a good idea to apply sunscreen every morning before you apply your makeup.
Reapply every two hours or so and more often if you get sweaty or wet.”
Is indoor tanning okay?
“They also cause premature signs of aging such as wrinkles and brown spots.”
Tanning is responsible formore cases of skin cancerthan smoking is for cases of lung cancer.
It’s just not worth it.
How can I treat my acne?
“If you get a pimple, be sure to treat it right away.
“Don’t pick at a pimple or it could cause scarring.
Do I need sunscreen on cloudy days?
However, the weather truly doesn’t matter when it comes to wearing sunscreen.
“Warmer weather usually means shorter sleeves and open necklines.
How can I protect myself from skin cancer?
Skin cancer is all too common for young women.
I asked several dermatologists their number one tip for avoiding cancer, and they all said the same thing.
“Also wear a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses with UV protection, and sun protective clothing.
Seek shade during the peak sun hours (10AM-4PM).
Don’t tan outside or do indoor tanning.”
What are the signs of skin cancer?
“Check your skin each month to see if your moles have grown or changed.
While checking yourself for changing moles or marks is important, nothing replaces a visit with an expert.
What is the best way to monitor my moles?
So you’re now committed to doing regular skin cancer checks.
That’s great, but it can be a little challenging to know where to start.
Did that mole really change or am I just imagining that?
That way, they can come in to have specific lesions evaluated and treated promptly, if needed.”
What should I look for in a sunscreen?
“Sunscreen should be reapplied every two to three hours if you are spending time outdoors.”
Do I need sunscreen if my makeup has SPF in it?
“You should use about a teaspoon of sunscreen to cover your face ears neck and upper chest.”
What skincare products do I really need?
They’re also incredibly expensive.
Don’t hesitate to ask your dermatologist about the best products for your skin.
It’s not a silly question, and it could end up saving you big bucks.
Save yourself some time and just ask.
Does higher SPF mean better protection?
I have fair skin, so I’m always looking for higher SPF sunscreens.
Yes c’mon!
I’ll be protected all day!
However, that doesn’t really account for what SPF actually means.
What’s the difference between UVA and UVB rays?
“SPF only describes protection from UVB rays, the sunburn rays that also damage your skin’s DNA.
Hunt until you find one that you like enough to reapply.”
“The best, broadest protection comes from zinc oxide,” said Dr. Rogers.
I use a 15 percent zinc-based sunscreen every day on my face.”
Is it okay to pop a pimple?
We’ve all been there.
You’re getting ready for a night out with friends, and there it is.
That giant pimple is just begging to be popped, right?
According to the dermatologists, it’s important to resist that temptation.
“We often pick too much recreating a bigger wound for our body to heal.
Do I really need eye cream?
As a frequent smiler and laugher, I have a lot of fine lines around my eyes.
“Eye creams are typically more expensive than face creams with fewer anti-aging ingredients because eye skin is sensitive.
Most people can simply use their face cream around their eyes,” said Dr. Rogers.
Will a base tan prevent a sunburn?
As summer approaches, it’s natural to want a little color before donning that new bikini.
And hey, you need a little tan so you won’t burn, right?
“No, no, no!
There is no such thing as a healthy tan,” Dr. Rogers told me.
“Tanning is the skin’s response to injury from the radiation of the sun.
How can I prevent acne?
One place to start, is your diet.
“Your skin is what you eat.
Beware [of] dietary impacts on your skin.
“A surprising culprit is one that may help your cholesterol but not your skin skim milk.
What should I avoid?
Always check with your dermatologist about which practices are beneficial and which ones do more harm than good.
“Overwashing your face does not make you super clean; it is a super myth.
Acne is not associated with facial cleanliness,” explained Dr. Buka.
“We all have bacteria on the surface of our skin.
It’s the overgrowth of this bacteria that causes acne.
In fact, overwashing destroys essential defensive oils that fight acne.”
What are the best products for acne-prone skin?
It is not a guarantee, but can be a useful guideline.”
When can I expect improvement from my acne treatment?
When you have acne, you want it goneyesterday.
It can be hard to wait and see, with every new treatment.
Knowing that help is on the way can allow you to feel a little more hopeful and patient.
“We always remind our patients that patience is key.”
Is it okay to use lemon juice on my skin?
It’s always best to check any natural or DIY skin treatments with your dermatologist before diving in.
One of the more common at-home treatments is lemon juice, and it can actually be dangerous.
“However, using lemon juice on your skin can cause significant dryness, redness, and irritation.
So if you do try it, don’t go outside!
Is it okay to use baking soda on my skin?
“Some people try baking soda as a cost-effective scrub or mask not the best idea!
In susceptible people, this irritation can lead to acne breakout.”
What should I be doing to look my best?
Take advantage of her knowledge and ask away!
You and your dermatologist can work together to come up with the right skincare regimen for you.
