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Ask Savvy Derm Diva – October 2023

October 1, 2023

Dear Savvy Derm Diva,
Should I be concerned about Halloween makeup if I have sensitive skin or eczema?
Scared to Wear Halloween Makeup, Emily O.

Dear Scared to Wear Halloween Makeup,
This is an excellent question as we prepare for a fun day with costumes and dramatic makeup. Unfortunately, the makeup you get at the “Halloween” aisle or specialty store is not created equal to what you normally wear, which can create a huge issue for the skin. I would start by creating a dramatic look with the makeup you already use at home. If you feel obligated to get colors

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Ask Savvy Derm Diva – September 2023

September 1, 2023

Who is Savvy Derm Diva?💋

I have been a Certified Physician Assistant specializing in Dermatology since 2003.  I currently work at Advanced Dermatology and Aesthetic Medicine, LLC, in Chicago, IL

Giving back to my profession and community is my top medical professional priority.  I am the Past President of the Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants (SDPA), a national organization of 4,700 members…

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Ask Savvy Derm Diva – August 2023 National Hair Loss Awareness Month

August 1, 2023

Dear Savvy Derm Diva,
Can you please share with me why I experienced significant shedding after pregnancy? Should I be concerned?
Experiencing Hair Loss, Tammy P.

Dear Experiencing Hair Loss,
Experiencing post-partum hair loss is not uncommon and is known as telogen effluvium. In particular, one can see excessive hair shedding about 3-4 months after giving birth, which is caused by falling estrogen levels. The good news is

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Ask Savvy Derm Diva – July 2023

July 1, 2023

Dear Savvy Derm Diva,
What exactly does SPF stand for, and why do I need a Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen?
Needing Sunscreen 101, Ashley R.

Dear Needing Sunscreen 101,
I am so happy you asked, as I always get this question in the clinic. SPF stands for “Sun Protection Factor” and was initially designated by the FDA in 1978 to prevent

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Ask Savvy Derm Diva – June 2023

June 1, 2023

Dear Savvy Derm Diva,
I never had acne as a teenager and now in my 20s am getting painful bumps to my chin and jawline. What can I do?
New Acne Frustration, Denise K.

Dear New Acne Frustration,
I am sorry to hear and I completely understand your frustration. It sounds like you are experiencing hormonal acne flares, which is not uncommon and can appear at any age.

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Ask Savvy Derm Diva – May 2023

May 1, 2023

Dear Savvy Derm Diva,
I wear an SPF 100 and continue to get a sunburn! What am I doing wrong?
Sunscreen Help Needed, Tom S.

Dear Sunscreen Help Needed,
I am so happy you asked this question as it is Skin Cancer Awareness Month and a great time to remind people how to prevent sunburns as it can increase your chance of getting a skin cancer. Anytime you use a sunscreen, please make sure it is a broad-spectrum to protect you not only from

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Ask Savvy Derm Diva – April 2023

April 1, 2023

Dear Savvy Derm Diva,
What are common myths about nutrition and skin health you’d like to bust?
Myth Buster, Sheila W.

Dear Myth Buster,
I am so happy you asked this question as it is often a robust conversation at the clinic. Here are a couple popular ones:
Myth 1:  Drinking water hydrates your skin. 
Water is essential for the body’s physiology…

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Ask Savvy Derm Diva – March 2023

March 1, 2023

Dear Savvy Derm Diva,
I am hearing that taking collagen is good for you but there are so many to choose from. Please help!
Seeking the Best Collagen, Cindy R.

Dear Seeking the Best Collagen,
At this time, collagen is the best supplement to heal the skin from within.

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Ask Savvy Derm Diva – February 2023

February 1, 2023

Dear Savvy Derm Diva,
Which supplements are best for acne and why?
Wanting Clear Skin Naturally, Kim S.

Dear Wanting Clear Skin Naturally,
Probiotics can be beneficial for acne-prone skin, as they help to correct gut dysbiosis and inflammation, which contribute to breakouts….

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Ask Savvy Derm Diva – May 2022

May 1, 2022

Dear Savvy Derm Diva,
My 45-year-old Uncle had recently passed from Melanoma, and I am heartbroken and scared. What do I need to do to protect myself?
Scared of Skin Cancer, Tom P.
Dear Scared of Skin Cancer,
I am incredibly sorry for your loss. Thank you for reaching out, as it is always essential to create awareness as Melanoma treatment can be successful if caught early. Cutaneous Melanoma is the most common cancer in the US and is highly preventable but can be very aggressive, so one must always be vigilant for new growths. Monitor existing moles for any change, and be mindful of Melanoma showing up in areas where the sun does not shine. The Melanoma Research Foundation (MRF) is a great resource, and they raise critical funds to support melanoma patients and their families.

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