Updated: Sep 18, 2020
March 2020:
Dear Savvy Derm Diva,
Now that spring is around the corner, should I be changing up my skincare routine? – Looking Forward to Spring. Kerri S.
Dear Looking Forward to Spring,
This is a great question, and the answer is yes, you may want to consider it. As the temperature increases, so does the humidity, and therefore, the air is not as cold and dry once it becomes warmer outdoors. You can probably back off using thick heavy creams to the body and start incorporating lightweight water-based moisturizing lotions instead. Another tip is to start getting that springtime glow by gently exfoliating the skin to your body and face one time a week to remove the dead skin cells that can contribute to skin dullness. Lastly, you may want to incorporate a mask 1-2X/week to help remove the impurities from the skin, such as pollution, dirt, etc. Lastly, don’t forget to continue to wear SPF daily!
Diva Tip: Not all skincare products are created equal; make sure you are familiar with your skin type when choosing exfoliants and masks.????
Dear Savvy Derm Diva,
I am so excited for Spring Break and am considering a few indoor tanning sessions, so I have some color before my trip to Florida. I always sunburn, so I thought a base-line tan would be best to decrease my risk. – Seeking a Base Tan. Terri H.
Dear Seeking A Base Tan,
Indoor tanning is dangerous and significantly increases your risk of developing melanoma, the most deadly form of skin cancer. The UV radiation from indoor and outdoor sources causes damage to the skin, which can lead to premature aging, immune-suppression, eye-damage, and even other forms of skin cancer. Though sunburns can increase your risk, even more, you would still have a risk of getting a sunburn and skin cancer even with a base-tan. That said, no UV exposure is safe, and therefore, you should always avoid indoor tanning beds, wear SPF of at least 30 or more with reapplication every 1-2 hours when you are outdoors. Finally, make sure you have a Total Body Skin Exam (TBSE) scheduled every year with your Board-Certified Dermatologist to make sure there are no suspicious moles or growths.
Diva Tip: You increase your risk of developing melanoma by 75% if you start indoor tanning before the age of 35.????
Renata Block is the creator of Savvy Derm Diva, an online resource for proper skin care. Ask Savvy Derm Diva is a monthly column answering your skincare related concerns! Make sure you follow her on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter! MUAH!????
