national healthy skin month

National Healthy Skin Month

By Dr. John Browning, M.D., is Board Certified in Pediatrics, Dermatology, and Pediatric Dermatology.

Did you know your skin is considered the largest organ of the body? From sun tanning to seasonal weather changes, your skin encounters a lot of daily wear and tear, and we don’t always give provide the attention it deserves.

November is National Healthy Skin Month!  Sponsored by the American Academy of Dermatology, this awareness month supports the care and protection of your skin following the sun exposure of summer, and entering into the drying effects of winter. Here are some helpful tips and advice on how to treat your skin right!

national healthy skin month

Protect Yourself from the Sun

Leaving your skin exposed to the sun can actually do more harm than you may think! A daily moisturizer with sunscreen will do wonders in preventing brown and red spots from forming, as well as reduce the effects of aging as excessive sun exposure can lead to wrinkles.  When in direct sunlight, be sure to wear a hat and sunglasses when possible; sunglasses will help prevent crow’s feet (wrinkles around your eyes), due to squinting.

Skin protection is not just limited to leisurely activities; you should also wear a water/sweat resistant sunscreen when exercising.  The American Academy of Dermatology recommends a broad spectrum sunscreen with SPF of 30 or higher and UVA protection.  Be sure to reapply every four hours and after exercising or swimming if you are staying outdoors.

Have a Nightly Cleansing Routine

Wash your face every night with a gentle cleanser and then apply a topical retinoid.  A retinoid is a form of Vitamin A that helps nourish your skin and promote healthy exfoliation.  Regular use of a topical retinoid will help remove unwanted sunspots and superficial skin lines. We recommend Revision or Skin Better, which is available for purchase through Renovar Med Spa.

Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize!

As we move into cooler months, the humidity will drop and your skin will start to dry out.  If you are prone to dry, chapped hands during winter, then use a moisturizing soap. Avoid hand sanitizer, as the alcohol in it also has a drying effect.  Use a hand cream throughout the day; start early, as it’s much easier to prevent cracked hands than to treat them!

Applying a moisturizing cream to your face and body every night will also help replace lost daily moisture, and prevent your skin from drying and developing a wrinkled look.

Visit Your Dermatologist

Consider visiting your dermatologist this month for a skin exam, especially if it has been over a year since your previous appointment. Your dermatologist can perform a full body skin exam to check moles and any suspicious spots on your skin.  Oftentimes, something as simple as a quick skin check can help diagnose melanoma or another skin cancer.

Want to start showing your skin some love? To learn more about services available at TDLS, or to book your appointment, CLICK HERE, or give us a call at (210)829-5180.

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