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The summer months are a tough time for your skin, so it is extremely important that you take the necessary measures to properly care for your skin. We spoke to dermatologist Julie Zang, M.D., from NewYork-Presbyterian/ Lower Manhattan Hospital, about the different ways to treat and take care of your skin, all while enjoying the warm weather!
Dr. Julie Zang, M.D./Photo: Courtesy of NYP/Lower Manhattan hospital
What are the best skin care practices to follow as you head into the summer months?
The best and most simple skin care practice is that everyone should wear sunscreen. Sunscreen helps to protect your skin from sunburn, early skin aging and skin cancers. Make sure to choose a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen that protects against UVA and UVB rays with Sun Protection Factor (SPF) 30 or greater. We recommend applying the sunscreen to dry skin 15 minutes before going outdoors and using enough sunscreen—one ounce or a shot glass full—to cover all skin that will not be covered by clothing, including the ears, nose, lips and the back of the neck. Because sunscreen can be water resistant for as little as 40 minutes, we recommend re-applying sunscreen approximately two hours after swimming or sweating heavily.
There are no safe ways to tan, whether it is from the sun or artificial sources, such as the tanning beds or sun lamps. Be aware that every time you tan, the skin is damaged. As this damage builds up, it speeds up the aging of your skin and increases your risk of skin cancers.
What are the best natural skin care protection solutions?
In addition to wearing sunscreen, wearing protective clothing such as long sleeved shirts, pants, a wide brimmed hat and sunglasses are helpful. There are several companies that market SPF-rated clothing. Moreover, everyone should try to avoid peak hours from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., as the sun’s rays are the strongest. Seek the shade when appropriate.
What are the best surgical or laser procedures for sun-damaged skin?
If too much time in the sun has left your face with discoloration, redness or wrinkles, laser procedures may help your skin look younger and healthier. Lasers come in different varieties. To name a few, one type of laser can target at melanin pigmentation that gives rise to brown discoloration. Another can target at dilated capillary vessels that causes the redness associated with rosacea. Another type can remove skin layers with precision and give the skin a tighter, younger looking surface during healing. Therefore, you need to consult a dermatologist to choose a type of laser that suits your goal and skin type.
How important is skin hydration?
Skin is the largest organ in our body. Just like any other part of our body, without water, it will certainly not function properly or at its best. Lack of hydration will turn our skin dry, flaky, less resilient and more prone to wrinkles. Here are a few steps to maintain hydrated skin:
- Avoid prolonged contact with hot or chlorinated water
- Use a gentle skin cleanser close to neutral pH
- Avoid skin care products that contain alcohol
- Moisturize immediately after bath or shower
- Use a humidifier
- Drink plenty of water daily
How can exfoliation help?
Skin renews itself about every 30 days. When old cells build up and remain on the surface of the skin, they can contribute to a flat dull appearance. Exfoliation helps to uncover smooth, fresh skin and improves the penetration of other skin care products. Products that contain salicylic acid, glycolic acid, ammonium lactate and urea generally help to exfoliate dull skin. However, be aware of irritation. Hands, feet, and your back can tolerate stronger exfoliants than your face, neck and chest.
-by Jackie Hart