Summer brings with it new challenges for your skin. The most important thing to do is avoid sunburn. UV radiation is a known carcinogen, and sunburns are associated with an increased risk of malignant melanoma, a potentially life-threatening cancer.
Remember to apply sunscreen before you leave home for the beach, before you even get dressed. Most people forget to apply sunscreen to their eyelids, ears, the backs of their necks, their backs and the backs of their legs.
Have a buddy at home help you out with sunscreen application on your back. Sunscreen sprays, like Neutrogena’s Fresh Cooling Body Mist Sunblock, also simplify the application process; you can even spray your own back with it. For your face, I recommend Neutrogena’s Age Shield Face Sunblock with SPF 110. It protects beautifully and effectively, doesn’t leave a white film and won’t clog your pores. Remember to reapply every two hours in the sun and after every dip in the water.
There are clothing lines and beach umbrellas available that have a UV protection factor, a measurement much like the SPF of a sunscreen. Look for the UPF when you are shopping and get added protection when you are out at the beach. I found a great beach umbrella with UPF at Bed, Bath and Beyond. Remember that being under an umbrella doesn’t protect you from UV rays that reflect off the sand.
Keep in mind that the sun can burn even dark skin. Given enough time in the sun, every skin type can burn. Never underestimate how much damage it can do; there have been many times that I have treated sunburns in people who went swimming on a cloudy day and didn't think they needed sunscreen. The same goes for those who thought they’d close their eyes and relax for a minute in the sun only to wake up two hours later with blisters on their body.
Sometimes the increased humidity can cause increased sweat production, leading to comedogenesis, or clogged pores. In order to combat this, a prescription topical retinoid cream is necessary. The topical retinoid cream will clear out those pores and keep them clear. Ask your dermatologist which one is good for your skin type and how to use it.
Keep in mind all the water activities and sunscreens can end up irritating your skin; vary your activities so that your skin gets a chance to recuperate between your days at the beach.
While you are at the beach, if you happen to spot a mole on someone’s back that doesn’t match the other moles, let that person know. This sign, called the “Ugly Duckling” sign, could be an early melanoma. Letting that person know what’s on their back can save their life.
$49 for $330 Dental Cleaning
