What Dermatologists Tell Their Patients
Posted on March 3, 2017 by DermSpectra™
According to the 2014 Surgeon General’s Call to Action, each year in the U.S. nearly 5 million people are treated for skin cancer, reaching costs of $8.1 billion. As a result, many questions and concerns arise when the topic turns to skin care. While dermatologists have busy schedules and it’s hard to say no to that perfect beach day, your skin is one of your most important assets. By following these tips, you can help your skin look young and glowing.
1. Stay Away From Tanning Beds
Indoor tanning has proven to be a significant cause of skin cancer because of the high levels of UV radiation exposure. Every time you use a tanning bed, you increase your risk of skin cancer as well as changes to your skin texture.
2. Moisturize
Listen to your skin. Moisturizers can protect dry, sensitive skin and improve the overall health and appearance of your skin. Dermatologists recommend applying the moisturizer best suited for your skin type after bathing to absorb the water into your skin.
3. Perform a Self-Exam
Leading dermatologists advise everyone to perform self-examinations to their skin monthly and to keep track of new or changing lesions or moles. Self-exams can alert you to changes in your skin, which could become a life-saving investment.
4. Control your Stress
High levels of stress can be a nightmare for your skin as dryness and acne become everyday occurrences. Dermatologists can provide effective treatments that will improve your skin and reduce your stress.
5. Use Proper Skin Protection
Dermatologists stress the importance of skin protection in the sun. Use sunscreen proactively and remember to re-apply every two hours. Wear protective clothing if you plan to be exposed to the sun for an extended period of time and seek shady areas when needed.
6. Leave Blemishes Alone
Blemishes can be our worst enemy. They always seem to appear right before important events. As tempting as it may be to cover them up or try to get rid of them, dermatologists suggest leaving your blemishes alone; touching them will not make them go away. Trying to deal with blemishes on your own actually prolongs the healing time and increases your chance of scarring.
7. No Smoking
More puffs, more problems. Dermatologists say that people who smoke excessively expose their skin to toxins that deteriorate skin health and drain the skin of oxygen and nutrients.
8. Maintain a Healthy Diet
The food we consume matters just as much to your skin as it does to your waistline. Vegetables, fresh fruits, whole grains, and lean protein are the foods dermatologists say will lead to healthier skin.
There are more skin cancers diagnosed each year than breast, prostate, and colon cancers combined. With these helpful dermatologist-recommended tips, you can be proactive about the health of your skin.
