The Care and Feeding of Your Skin

Summer is right around the corner and you may not know it yet, but your dermatologist may be your best friend. I bet you can’t wait to soak up those warm summer rays that kiss your pale skin a golden bronze on a lazy afternoon at the beach, am I right? From about 93 million miles away, the sun is happy to oblige, sending its invisible ultraviolet rays to bathe everything with its welcoming warmth- including your skin.

Sounds idyllic, but maybe you need to think twice. Too much of anything is not good for you and that applies to the sun as well. Overexposure to the sun can actually be dangerous. According to dermatologists, any sunburn, not just a summer one, can actually damage your skin and even cause skin cancer and other skin conditions to develop. Now there’s something to think about.

Does this mean that you have to stay inside and shield yourself from the sun’s rays, wrapping yourself like a mummy? If you do get overexposed to the sun, is there nothing that can be done? Not by a long shot. That’s what your dermatologist is for. Dermatology is the branch of medicine that deals with diseases and injuries to your skin. They use modern techniques and equipment to ensure that through diagnosis and treatment, you can once again have healthy skin. There are a variety of treatments available to treat damaged skin. Contact your dermatologist to see which one is right for you.

Even with all of the dermatology treatments available to you post-exposure, doesn’t it make better sense to prevent the damage to your skin in the first place? With a little preparation and planning, your days in the sun can be healthy and happy and not injurious to your skin. Remember the old saying “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure?” In the case of your skin, it doesn’t take a pound. Dermatologists recommend using a liberal application of sunscreen. Be sure that it is SPF 15 or higher; it can help prevent skin cancer and spots.

Dermatologists also strongly recommend proper hydration. Be sure to drink plenty of water. Not only does your body need it, your skin does too. It moisturizes and helps improve your skin’s appearance and overall health.
For folks with damaged skin, consider this: a procedure called laser skin resurfacing can help rejuvenate sun-damaged skin. It also helps with those telltale wrinkles, acne, and other skin conditions. Ask your dermatologist if you would be a candidate for this.

Don’t take your skin for granted. It is the largest organ in your body and it needs your help to stay healthy and vibrant. Take the time to keep it healthy. Lots of water and the proper sunscreen are the formula for your success. If you have any questions or concerns, be sure to make an appointment with your dermatologist. Now get out there and enjoy the sun!