HEALTHY SKIN how you apply the sunscreen. “Proper application is key to getting the desired SPF protection,” Lakeside Dermatology’s Dr. Alex Kennon says. “Studies have shown subjects only applied 25-75% of the amount required to achieve the rated SPF, thus decreasing the efficacy. It requires 1-1.5 ounces (2-3 tablespoons) of sunscreen to cover the average body to achieve the rated SPF.” Don’t forget to reapply! According to Kennon, you should reapply every two hours, or every 40 minutes if you are sweating or swimming. Myth 2: You only need to wear sunscreen when you’re outside. If you assume that you only need to apply sunscreen when you plan on being active outside, think again! Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Pamela Sakalosky from Lakeland’s Watson Clinic Bella Vista Building clarifies this misconception, “Whether spending time inside or out, wearing sunscreen is one of the most important things you can do for your skin. The sun’s rays can pass through the glass windows of your home and car and cause premature aging and wrinkling of the skin.” Myth 3: If your skin tans as opposed to burning, you don’t need to be concerned about skin cancer. If you’re a real sun worshipper, you might not like this next one very much. “Tan skin is damaged skin,” Kennon explains. He goes on to explain why tanning isn’t such a great idea, healthwise, “Tanning is a result of your skin’s attempt to protect itself from UV radiation and DNA damage, which can potentially lead to skin cancer. The melanin produced by tanning acts as an umbrella over the nucleus of cells trying to shield DNA from damage, but it is imperfect and some UV radiation does get through.” Sakalosky agrees. “There is no such thing as a healthy tan.”
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Myth 4: Using a daily moisturizer with sunscreen in the morning offers ideal protection for your face. Using a daily moisturizer with sunscreen on your face can provide some protection, but don’t be lulled into a false sense of safety if you just apply only in the morning and then go about your day. “A daily moisturizer with sunscreen is a good start,” Kennon says, “but you want to make sure it is at least SPF 30. Broad-brimmed hats, UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) protective clothing, and makeup with sunscreen provide additional protection.” If makeup isn’t really your thing, be sure to reapply your protective moisturizer every couple of hours for maximum effectiveness. Myth 5: You can’t use retinoids or retinol in the summer because they can cause sun sensitivity. Retinols and retinoids have increased in popularity in recent years as means of preventing and reducing fine lines, wrinkles, and dull skin, but there are some precautions that should be minded. “Retinols and retinoids can be continued in the summer as long as one is diligent about sun protection,” Sakalosky says. “Since retinol breaks down in sunlight and makes the skin more prone to sun damage, make sure you apply it at night and go heavy on the sunscreen the next day.” The bottom line is, enjoy the summer sunshine, but be wise about it. Cover up when you can, and always use sunscreen, whether you plan on spending time outdoors or not. Damage from ultraviolet radiation doesn’t go away, so protect yourself from burning and minimize tanning. Skin cancer is nothing to scoff at, so any time you notice alterations in your skin, such as new growths or changes to existing moles, freckles, or birthmarks, contact your primary care physician or dermatologist to get it checked without delay. HN
Enjoy the Summer Wisely
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n Central Florida, we are blessed ALEX W. KENNON, MD, with sunny days for about two-thirds FAAD of the year. With so much sunshine pouring down on us, it’s important to remember that too much of anything – including sunshine – can be bad for your health. The biggest danger of too much sun exposure comes from the sun’s ultraviolet radiation. UV rays can damage the skin, causing an uncomfortable or even painful sunburn, and potentially leading to cancer. Damage from the sun accumulates over our entire lives and 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer. It is always wise to take steps to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.
Clothing Get into the habit of protecting your skin from sun damage by preparing ahead of time. First of all, think about your clothing. Of course, clothes protect us from the sun’s rays, but some fabrics do this better than others. Cotton lets a lot of ultraviolet radiation pass through it, whereas polyester, nylon, and silk block or reflect UV rays much better. Clothing labeled with an Ultra Protection Factor (UPF) has been tested and rated for its ability to protect against UV radiation. A UPF of 50 blocks 98% of harmful UV radiation. Stretched-out fabrics offer less UV protection, so opt for something looser-fitting. In general, if you can see light through the fabric when holding it up to a light, it’s not effective at blocking UV rays.
Don’t Forget the Eyes, Ears, Nose and Lips Wearing a broad-brimmed hat will help keep the sun off of your face and neck, and sunglasses labeled “100% UV protection” are definitely helpful. Of course, don’t forget your sunscreen! Use a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor of at least 30 on all exposed skin. Just as importantly, don’t forget to reapply every two hours that you are outside. In addition, a lip balm with an SPF of 15 or higher will help to protect your lips. Enjoy the summertime, play outdoors, go to the beach, live your life to the fullest – just remember to take a few simple precautions to protect your health and your future. This column is sponsored by Lakeside Dermatology, and the opinions expressed herein may not reflect those of CFHN or of its advertisers. Dr. Alex W. Kennon, MD, FAAD, is a board-certified dermatologist who is fellowshiptrained in Mohs micrographic surgery. He received his undergraduate and medical degrees from Florida State University and completed his dermatology residency at Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University. Lakeside Dermatology has offices in Sebring and Winter Haven.
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