Melanoma Monday: May is Melanoma Awareness Month

Drivers are failing to use their sunscreen. Utilizing sun protection measures while driving is just as important as wearing your sunscreen at the beach.

Most patients feel it is unnecessary to apply sunscreen before driving in their car.  Compared to the 73% of the public who apply daily general sunscreen, only 48% of people apply their SPF before getting in the driver seat.

Poor compliance with the application of sun protection can result in the development of deadly skin cancers. Make sure to purchase your sunscreen before the summer sun sneaks through your windows.

" I Have Sensitive Skin! " But Do You Really?

Q: What exactly does “sensitive skin” mean?

A: The term “sensitive skin” is a marketing expression that really has no medical definition.

With over 60% of the population claiming they fall victim to so-called “sensitive skin,” it is easy to see why so many cosmetic companies market their products to this group.

There are three types of skin that tend to make up the population of sensitive skin sufferers: subjects with rosacea, subjects with atopic dermatitis, and subjects with cosmetic intolerance syndrome.

Tips:

1. Avoid over washing of the face.

2. Avoid products with fragrance, formulated with propylene glycol, lanolin, and paragons.

3. Moisturize 2 x a day to preserve the normal layer of the skin.

4. Avoid treatments with retinol, glycol acid or peels.

5. Test it...before you buy it.

Is Your Bowel Linked to Your Skin?

Ever wonder if your skin rash or pimples could be related to your diet? More specifically could the gluten in your diet be triggering your symptoms?  Everyday more and more benefits of gluten-free diets are being discovered.   

Gluten-free diets are most commonly used to manage celiac disease, which causes the immune system to trigger a reaction in the gut to gluten, a protein which is found in wheat, barley, rye, malts and triticale.  But what if you have never been diagnosed with celiac disease?  In a recent study published in Journal Watch General Medicine, patients without celiac disease but symptoms of celiac sensitivity, experienced relief from their symptoms after adopting a wheat-free diet.  

Therefore, whether you have celiac disease, a gluten sensitivity, or neither, experimenting with a gluten-free diet has several potential benefits. Patients in our clinic with eczema, acne, and peri-oral dermatitis have seen benefits with glow gluten or gluten free diets! Luckily, with the growing popularity, many grocery stores have now made these products more accessible to consumers by adding gluten-free aisles. 

As with any diet change, it is important that you maintain a balanced diet, especially when you are excluding foods you are used to eating. It is also important to continue eating a balance of proteins, carbs, healthy fats, and other nutrients. 

If you have itchy skin, acne, or rashes that do not improve with standard regimens, call Dr. Lily to discuss your diet.   

Folic Acid Linked to Lower Autism Risk

Including the right amount of folic acid in your diet will leave your skin looking naturally smooth and beautiful, and we are learning more about the benefits of this B-vitamin every day!

A recent study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that the children of women who supplement their diets with folic acid before and during pregnancy have a reduced risk of autism, as well as other neural tube defects. Folic acid also encourages cell turnover and DNA production, which will leave your skin looking and feeling soft, smooth, and radiant. It also can reduce your risk of skin diseases like dandruff (seborrheic dermatitis) and vitiligo.

It is so easy to include this vitamin in your diet, so why not make it a part of your every day routine? Folic acid is present in its natural form, folate, in green leafy vegetables like spinach, kale, and beet greens, as well as legumes, asparagus, broccoli, fruits, and whole grains. Most breads, cereals, flours and pastas in the United States are fortified with folic acid, too! Eat a balanced diet and if you are planning to get pregnant then supplement daily with a prenatal vitamin!

Arms and Legs Looking Drab this Season?

The tanning bed is NOT the answer to getting that summer glow in the harsh winter months.   Dr. Lily swears by Mac’s Skinsheen Leg Spray, but be sure to test out the shades first before purchasing.  This great product is a smooth-on, gel-based bronzer that’s easy to apply yet provides sheer to low coverage with subtle sheen and radiance.  No need to worry about streaks; the mousse-like foam leaves a well-blended and even sun kissed look.  Pick up yours today at any Sephora or Mac boutique before taking those Christmas party photos.