Texoma Associated Dermatologists: Top-Rated Dermatologists in Sherman, TX

Take care of all your medical and cosmetic skin care needs at Texoma Associated Dermatologists, the Grayson County's leading dermatology clinic.

WestDerm

Escape From Eczema

October is National Eczema Awareness Month. Eczema affects a whopping 30 percent of children and 15 percent of adults. So, it’s likely that eczema will affect you or someone you know at some point. But you and your loved ones don’t have to suffer from eczema because it’s treatable. Read on to learn how you can escape from eczema.
What is Eczema
Eczema is a red, itchy rash. It can range from mild to severe. It is not contagious, and you can’t get it from somebody.
Researchers Don’t Know What Causes Eczema.
Eczema could be the result of an overactive immune system. Researchers think a combination of genetics and environmental factors triggers inflammation. People with eczema might have a gene variation that makes their skin more susceptible to allergens and irritants in the environment.
The Different Types of Eczema
Not all eczema is alike, there are seven different types. They affect different parts of the body and can look different from each other. What they all have in common is that they tend to be inflamed, red, and itchy. The seven different types of eczema include:
  • contact dermatitis
  • atopic dermatitis
  • dyshidrotic
  • neurodermatitis
  • nummular
  • seborrheic dermatitis
  • stasis
The Most Common Form of Eczema
Contact dermatitis is the most common type of eczema. It’s a delayed allergic reaction that appears a day or two after the skin is exposed to an irritant. People with sensitive skin do best with scent-free products like soaps and laundry detergents that help them avoid irritation.
How To Treat Eczema Topically
You can treat eczema topically with triamcinolone and hydrocortisone. These medications reduce inflammation and strengthen the skin barrier. They can be used alone or with other treatments and come in spray and lotion form.
Eczema Can Be Treated Internally
You can treat eczema internally with oral or injected medications like cyclosporine and methotrexate. They encourage the immune system to reduce inflammation but are only recommended for short periods.
Treat Eczema with Biologics
Biologics target the overactive immune system and decrease inflammation. One example is Interleukin inhibitors, which are injectable.
The Itch, Scratch, Repeat, Cycle
Eczema can keep you awake at night in a cycle of itching and scratching. People of all ages, including children, can get caught in the itch, scratch, repeat cycle that can make for poor sleep.
When It’s Time to See A Dermatologist
It’s time to see a dermatologist if eczema is affecting your quality of life. This means that you aren’t able to sleep because it’s itchy. It can also mean that you are bothered by the way the rash looks. You must see a doctor if you see red streaks in your skin. The same is true if your eczema scabs or becomes filled with pus.
National Eczema Awareness Month reminds us that eczema is a common skin condition that will likely affect you or someone you know. But you and your loved ones can escape from eczema because it’s treatable. If you think you have eczema, contact one of our board-certified dermatologists today to schedule an assessment.
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Your #NoFilterNeeded Routine for Flawless Skin: A Step-by-Step Guide 

In the age of Instagram and Snapchat filters, the pursuit of flawless skin has never been more popular. But what if we told you that you can achieve a #NoFilterNeeded look with the right skincare routine? It’s not about hiding imperfections; it’s about nourishing your skin to reveal its natural radiance. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the correct order for applying skincare products and the perfect amount to achieve that coveted flawless glow. 

Step 1: Cleansing 

The foundation of any successful skincare routine is a clean canvas. To enhance your routine, we recommend double cleansing regardless of if you wear makeup. Using an oil cleanser prior to using your regular cleanser will remove dirt, oil, SPF and makeup where the second cleanse will get deeper into the pores. Think of double cleansing as sweeping before you mop! Typically, this is recommended just at night since you’ll have more debris to remove than in the morning. We love Isdin’s Essential Oil Cleanser. Apply an oil cleanser to dry skin with dry hands, massage in, add some water and rinse. Then follow with your daily cleanser. 

 
Use lukewarm water to avoid stripping your skin of its natural oils. Apply a nickel-sized amount to your fingertips and massage it onto your face in a circular motion for about 30 seconds. Rinse thoroughly and pat your face dry with a clean towel.  

Step 2: Toning (optional) 

If you have very oily or acne prone skin, use a toner like SkinCeuticals LHA Toner to remove excess oil and unclog pores 1x-2x daily. For normal/dry skin types, a hydrating mist like SkinCeuticals Phyto Corrective Mist is best. Toners preps the skin to absorb the subsequent products effectively.  

Step 3: Serum/Targeted Treatment 

Serums are packed with powerful active ingredients that address specific skincare concerns. Depending on your needs, select an appropriate serum (e.g., vitamin C for brightening, hyaluronic acid for hydration, retinol for wrinkles) or all the above for optimal results. Apply the recommended amount of product (listed on the bottle) to your fingertips and gently pat it onto your skin. Allow it to absorb for a minute or two. When using multiple serums, layer thinnest to thickest, water based to oil based. Shop our best selling serums. 

Step 4: Eye Cream 

The skin around your eyes is delicate and prone to fine lines and puffiness. Take a small pea-sized amount of eye cream on your ring finger and gently tap it around your eye contour. Don’t rub or tug at this sensitive area; instead, use a gentle, upward motion. Eye Creams – Shop WestDerm (westdermatology.com) 

Step 5: Moisturizer 

Moisturizing is a crucial step to lock in hydration and maintain your skin’s barrier function, regardless of your skin type. Even oily skin needs moisturizer! Dispense a dime-sized amount of moisturizer onto your fingertips and apply it evenly to your face and neck. Try our favorite SkinCeuticals Triple Lipid Restore 2:4:2 Moisturizer – Shop WestDerm (westdermatology.com) for normal/dry skin, or a lightweight, water-based moisturizer for oily skin like SkinCeuticals Daily Moisture – Shop WestDerm (westdermatology.com). Shop all our moisturizers 

Step 6: Sunscreen 

The most crucial step in any skincare routine is sunscreen application. UV rays cause premature aging, pigmentation, and skin cancer. Use a broad-spectrum SPF of at least 30 and apply a generous amount to your face, neck, and any exposed areas. Don’t forget to reapply throughout the day, especially if you’re spending time outdoors. 

 
We love Isdin Eryfotona Actinica because it not only prevents but repairs existing damage. The key is finding a sunscreen you love and will wear every day! 

Exfoliators & Masks 

There are many different types of exfoliating products and masks. How often they are used depends on the type of product, individual skin needs & tolerance, and what else you are using in your routine. As a general rule of thumb, exfoliating cleansers like SkinMedica AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser should be used 3-4x per week, as it has micro-beads and exfoliating acids. A cleanser like SkinCeuticals Glycolic Renewal Cleanser is suitable for 2x daily use. A very granular scrub like Alastin ReSURFACE should be used 1-2x a week. Exfoliating serums like Isdin Glicoisdin Moderate are a superior form of exfoliation because they are left on the skin and can address wrinkles and lift pigment. Always check with your skincare professional to guide you. Masks are a nice maintenance once a week. If you have oily, blemish-prone skin try SkinCeuticals Clarifying Clay Mask once or twice weekly. All skin types could benefit from using a hydrating mask like SkinCeuticals Phyto Corrective Masque once or twice weekly. 

Visual Reference: 

To give you a better idea of the correct amount to use, here’s a visual guide: 

  • Cleanser: A nickel-sized amount 
  • Toner: Just enough to dampen a cotton pad 
  • Serum: As directed on packaging 
  • Eye Cream: A small pea-sized amount for both eyes 
  • Moisturizer: A dime-sized amount 
  • Sunscreen: A generous application to cover your face and neck 

Achieving flawless skin is within your reach when you follow a consistent skincare routine and visit your dermatologist or aesthetician regularly. Skincare in conjunction with professional treatments will give the best results. The two work hand in hand, like eating healthy and exercising. Remember that patience is key; results may take time, but your dedication will pay off. Embrace your natural beauty and say goodbye to the need for filters. Your radiant, #NoFilterNeeded skin is waiting to shine! 

The Connection between Self-Care and Dermatology

As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisper, the arrival of September brings more than just a shift in seasons—it marks the start of National Self-Care Month. In a world that often glorifies hustle culture and constant productivity, taking time to care for oneself is essential for maintaining physical, mental, and emotional well-being. While self-care can encompass a wide range of practices, one often overlooked avenue is dermatology care. This National Self-Care Month let’s explore how dermatology care can be a powerful and transformative form of self-care.

Dermatology care involves nurturing and tending to the largest organ of our body: the skin. Our skin plays a vital role in protecting us from external elements, regulating temperature, and providing a sense of touch. Its health isn’t just about appearances; it’s deeply intertwined with our overall well-being.

  • Physical Health and Comfort: Prioritizing dermatology care means addressing skin conditions, maintaining skin health, and preventing potential problems. Regular check-ups with a dermatologist can help identify and treat issues such as acne, eczema, psoriasis, and skin cancer early on, preventing discomfort and potential complications.
  • Mental and Emotional Well-being: Our skin’s appearance can significantly impact our self-esteem and confidence. Skin conditions or concerns can lead to emotional distress and affect mental health. Dermatology care helps address these concerns, promoting a positive self-image and enhancing self-confidence.
  • Relaxation and Stress Relief: Dermatology treatments often involve soothing massages, gentle exfoliation, and calming skincare routines. These practices can have a therapeutic effect, reducing stress levels and promoting relaxation. Taking the time to care for your skin can serve as a mindful practice, allowing you to be present in the moment and relieve stress.

Dermatology Care as a Form of Self-Care

  • Customized Skincare Regimens: Dermatologists can create personalized skincare routines tailored to your skin type, concerns, and goals. Following a skincare regimen not only nurtures your skin but also provides a dedicated time each day to focus on yourself.
  • Professional Treatments: From facials and chemical peels to laser therapies, dermatologists offer a range of treatments that not only enhance your skin’s appearance but also offer therapeutic benefits. These treatments can leave you feeling rejuvenated and revitalized.
  • Early Detection of Health Issues: Regular dermatology check-ups can lead to the early detection of skin cancers and other health concerns. Prioritizing these appointments is a proactive step toward taking care of your overall health.
  • Confidence Boost: Addressing skin concerns can give you a newfound sense of confidence. When you feel good about your skin, you’re more likely to feel good about yourself in general, positively affecting various aspects of your life.

September, National Self-Care Month, serves as a reminder that taking care of ourselves is not a luxury; it’s a necessity. Incorporating dermatology care into your self-care routine can have far-reaching benefits, from promoting physical health and emotional well-being to boosting your self-confidence. As you embrace the spirit of self-care this month, consider how dermatology care can be a powerful and transformative way to nurture your body, mind, and spirit. Remember, investing in yourself is always worth it.

7 Common Reasons for Hair Loss in Women

It is normal for women to lose about 100 hair strands every day.  If you are losing more hair than usual or notice bald spots, it is time to meet a dermatologist.
Contrary to popular belief, home remedies may not completely arrest hair fall. Hair fall may be due to various reasons. It takes a certified dermatologist to get to the root cause of hair fall and recommend an effective treatment plan.
Common Causes of Hair Loss in Women?
1)    Alopecia Areata
Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disease. In this condition, the immune system attacks the hair follicles and other healthy cells. People with alopecia areata experience hair loss in patches. Some women experience complete hair loss and hair loss throughout the body.
Corticosteroid injections and anti-inflammatory drugs are used to treat the disease. The medications work by suppressing the immune system.
2)    Nutritional Deficiencies
A diet that is low in protein, zinc, Vitamin B3, and iron can cause hair fall. To treat a nutritional deficiency, your doctor may recommend a blood test. After an accurate diagnosis of the issue, health supplements like Nutrafol Women would be recommended.
3)    Birth Control
Changing to a new brand of hormonal birth control pills can induce hair loss. Some women experience hair loss even months after they stop taking pills.
Contraceptive pills with a low androgen index may control hormone-induced hair loss. Other forms of contraception such as implants, and skin patches cause hair fall too.
4)    Genetics
Female pattern hair loss (FPHL) or Androgenetic alopecia is a common genetic condition that causes hair fall in women. Hair thins around the crown and on the sides. Hair follicles shrink, and the new hair is thinner and finer.
FPHL is more common in women over the age of 40 but can occur even during teenage. Dermatologists use more than one method of treatment to obtain optimal results.
5)    Postpartum Hair Loss
Most often, postpartum hair fall is normal. The dermatologist will perform the essential tests and suggest a breastfeeding-friendly treatment plan. Additional factors contributing to hair loss can be identified too through these tests.
One of the trusted recommendations from dermatologists is Nutrafol Postpartum. The product targets the major reasons behind thinning hair and fills the nutrition gap. Since it is made of natural ingredients, there are no major side effects to it.
6)    Lifestyle Habits
Common lifestyle practices can induce hair fall in women. Some of them are,
  • Wearing tight ponytails and braids can scar the hair follicles permanently (traction alopecia).
  •  Overuse of heat styling products (thermal damage) and overbleaching.
  •  Chemical procedures for straightening the hair strands can damage the follicles.
  • Over-washing of hair deprives the scalp of natural oils and makes it prone to damage.
  • Under-washing of hair leads to product build-up and hair fall.
7)    Stress
Hair fall is related to physical and emotional stress. High stress levels cause telogen effluvium. During this condition, the growth phase of the hair follicles slows down, and more hair follicles are moved into the resting phase.
The condition is temporary and reversible. Stress, when combined with sudden weight loss and poor diet, can aggravate telogen effluvium.
How to React to Excessive Hair Fall?
Do not panic! Hair fall can be controlled using different treatment options. It is best to talk to a dermatologist, go through a few tests to confirm the diagnosis, and proceed with the treatment.
If you want to learn more about hair loss and its various causes, talk to the hair loss specialists at West Dermatology. We curate customized treatment plans to help you deal with hair loss and improve your hair health.

How to Pick the Best Sunscreen ☀️💪

As summer temperatures rise and you spend more time outside, you’ll probably want to keep a tube of sunscreen or one of the newer sunscreen powders in your gym bag or glove compartment. If you pop into any makeup counter, drugstore, or grocery store, you’re likely to see at least a half-dozen sunscreen brands. While the ubiquity of sunscreen makes it easy to stay sun-safe, the variety of options makes it hard to choose!
That’s why we’re going over the sunscreen basics and listing some of our favorite formulas. With this handy email, you can figure out what works best for you and avoid getting burned.
First things first: There are two main types of sunscreen. Physical sunscreens deflect sunlight with the active ingredients titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. The old versions used to feel thick and sometimes leave a white cast on the skin. Newer versions of microniadized zinc and titanium feel great, are not thick and do not leave a white sheen on your skin.
Chemical sunscreens, on the other hand, use chemicals like avobenzone and oxybenzone to absorb UV rays and make them less harmful. These formulas blend invisibly into skin. The drawback is that the chemicals in sunscreen may be absorbed in minute quantities when applied in large amounts every 2 hours. This has recently gotten some bad press but there’s no conclusive proof that they’re harmful. Still, pregnant women, young children, and cautious types may want to go for physical sunscreen.
If you already know which type of sunscreen you prefer, you may be wondering: Which brand is the best? We’re glad you asked!
> For your face and body, try ISDIN- Eryfotona Actinica SPF 50, a fast-absorbing sunscreen that feels smooth on the skin it absorbs quickly, layers well under makeup, doesn’t smell like SPF, is made with antioxidant-rich vitamin E, as well as an ingredient that helps repair previous sun damage.
> We also love ISDIN’s Eryfotona Actinica SPF 50 for your face, or Total Defense and Repair from SkinMedica.
> For your lips, EltaMD’s UV Lip Balm Broad-Spectrum SPF 31 neutralizes free radicals with antioxidants and offers both physical and chemical sun protection.
> For on-the-go, grab an ISDIN Mineral Brush, your solution to reapplying SPF at 2 p.m. without messing up your mascara.
> For when you’re exercising or going swimming, make sure you reapply even a “waterproof” sunscreen every two hours
Whichever sunscreen you choose, remember to use it in conjunction with other sun-safety measures, like wearing protective clothing and scheduling an annual skin check with a board-certified dermatologist. As always, get in touch with us if you have any questions. We hope you get outside and enjoy healthy, comfortable skin all summer long!

How to Keep Your Skin Sun Safe this Summer ☀️

This beautiful, warm weather has everybody outside enjoying their favorite activity. There’s so much fun to be had, but we want to remind you that your skin can easily get damaged this time of year. Whether you’re going for a dip in a pool, hiking, or just outside soaking up the sun, it’s important to make sure that your skin health remains a top priority. The great thing about it is that all of these tips are easy enough to implement in any summer activity.
Sun Safe Skincare Tips
Seek shade: When possible, sit in the shade as much as you can. Some activities such as swimming or hiking will require you to take regular breaks to get out of the direct sunlight. Be extra careful to avoid direct sunlight during the peak hours of 10 AM-4 PM.
Cover your skin: It’s important to wear proper clothing when you’re outside. This means investing in lightweight clothing (avoiding dark colors if possible), clothing with UV protection, hats, and sunglasses.
Consider advice from Dr. Mitchel Goldman, MD and West Dermatology Medical Director. He says, “Whenever I know I will be enjoying the outdoors, on a bicycle or hiking, I always wear SPF clothing with full arm covers, wear Isdin Erythrophotona sunscreen on exposed areas and take a Sunisdin supplement.”
Wear sunscreen: Everybody should wear sunscreen, even on overcast days. Don’t forget to reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating. It’s a good idea to make sunscreen application part of your daily routine.
Dr. Jessica Riley, DO, adds, “I apply EltaMD UV Clear sunscreen in the morning. It goes on very elegantly and also has niacinamide in it, which helps to calm acne-prone skin. I also make sure to reapply every two hours if I’m going to be in the sun. The easiest way to do this is with the Isdin Mineral Brush. It goes on effortlessly and easily over my makeup.
Avoid tanning beds: It may be tempting to get a golden tan from a tanning bed, but know that this is not safe for your skin. Not only can it cause skin damage, but it could also lead to skin cancer. Protect your skin by avoiding tanning beds or overexposure from direct sunlight.
Wash your face: More sunlight usually means more sweating. Make sure you keep your face clean so that there isn’t a buildup of oil or dirt.
Continue skin checks: Don’t forget to continue regular skin checks. Take care to make a note of any skin changes and report those changes to your doctor right away.
Take care of your skin throughout the summer months. Don’t forget to apply sunscreen, wear proper clothing, and keep out of the direct sunlight whenever possible. For your skincare needs, schedule an appointment with us! We look forward to educating you about skincare to keep you healthy all year long!

Summer Sun-Safe Tips ☀️

It’s time to dig out your swimsuit and shelve your sweaters: Summer is official here! We hope you have all sorts of fun plans for the season, like visiting the beach, strolling through a state fair, or taking a hike in nature. We have just one piece of advice: Make sure that you’re taking care of your skin as you enjoy the summer sun. Below are a few everyday tips for lowering your risk of sunburn and skin cancer.
👒 Wear a hat: A hat with a brim will keep sunlight from hitting your face directly, helping you to avoid UV damage. The wider the brim, the better!
👕 Cover up when you can: If you can comfortably wear long sleeves or long pants, the fabric will help to keep your skin from burning in the sun.
☂️ Pack a parasol: When you’re walking through an area without much shade cover, bring your own shade! If you want to be extra careful, choose a parasol with a UPF value. UPF stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor—like SPF, but for fabric. Parasols (and clothes) with a UPF value are proven to screen out harmful UV rays.
👧 Slather on sunscreen: Sometimes, you can’t avoid the sun hitting your skin. You might not always want to avoid it! Just cover any exposed skin in sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. If you need to stock up, you’re in luck: We’re selling some of our favorite, dermatologist-recommended sunscreen brands at shop.westderm.com.
However you choose to protect your skin, we hope it helps you enjoy the season. If you have any concerns, or if you want a personalized plan for your skin health, just make an appointment with us. Happy summer!

Let’s Clear Up Some Acne Myths

“Bunk” is a slang term for nonsense, and in honor of June Acne Awareness Month, let’s debunk the nonsense of acne myths and aim for blemish-free skin.
Myth #1 Tanning Clears Up Acne
We’re calling “bunk” on this myth. The sun’s UV rays do nothing to zap acne. Instead, your skin dries out, inflames, produces more oil, and gets worse. It may feel at first like the sun is drying your acne, but it’s not healing it. We know this because we see tanned people all the time who still have acne. Plus, sun exposure increases your risk of developing melanoma and other skin cancers.
Myth #2 Dairy Causes Acne
We’ve all heard that dairy causes acne, but this is definitely a myth. There’s been some speculation that an increase in insulin growth factor-1 leads to acne because it activates sebum production and that milk proteins inflame acne. The truth is that no scientific study yet has been strong enough to prove a correlation between dairy and acne.
Myth #3 Acne is Just a Teen Issue
Millions of adults who suffer from acne will tell you that it’s not just a teen issue. Yes, a whopping 85% of teens get some form of acne at some point. But just because the teenage years are over doesn’t mean acne ends too. 30% of adults ages 20-60, and beyond, deal with acne. It’s the most common skin disease. And it’s possible for women who had pretty clear skin as a teen to develop acne later in life.
Myth #4 Acne Will Clear Up Fast If You Scrub Your Skin
You can’t scrub away acne, and trying will actually make it worse. It’s true that all pimples begin with a clogged pore, and because acne can start forming several weeks before it appears, it makes sense to keep pores clear. A good acne-prevention routine includes using retinol for quicker skin turnover, washing your face before bed, and using non pore-clogging products. But once acne appears, scrubbing is a no-no. Instead, wash your face gently twice a day with a mild cleanser.
Myth #5 You Don’t Need to Treat Acne
Some people say acne will eventually go away on its own, so you don’t need to treat it. This is a myth because true acne is a chronic skin condition. If left untreated, it can damage your skin (and self-esteem) along the way. Acne is something that needs to be managed, and our dermatologists can help.
Dermatologists are up-to-date with all the latest breakthroughs for breakouts. They can clear almost any acne issue. The problem is that people often don’t ask for professional help. Instead, some people resort to home treatments that can do more harm than good, like dabbing toothpaste on acne to try to dry it up. Household products are not necessarily safe on the skin, and the fluorides in toothpaste can make acne worse. Leave all the guesswork up to the professionals and let us answer any questions you have.
Book your appointment today for personalized skincare advice to address your acne concerns. One of our board-certified dermatologists would be happy to see you!

The Dermatologist-Approved Guide to Summer Skin

Summertime means beaches, barbecues, and baseball, but it also means skin-wrecking salt water, sand, and (if you aren’t careful) sunburn. These can cause serious stress to a healthy complexion, but c’mon – who wants to stay inside?

The warm summer months require unique skin care strategies. All the swimming, cycling, hiking, and other outdoorsy enjoyments are great for our overall health and wellbeing, but these activities can lead to significant ultraviolet (UV) overexposure to the face and body, not to mention skin dehydration and free radical damage. Over time, these environmental stressors can lead to accelerated aging, irregular pigmentation, and even certain cancers.

It can be difficult to determine which skin care solutions will yield consistently great results. However, starting with the methods used by experienced dermatologists is a great first step! Here are tried-and-true techniques our WestDerm dermatologists not only recommend to their patients, but also use to protect their own skin.

Check the Ultraviolet Radiation Index Daily

While standard weather forecasts will help ready you for blazing temperatures, your local weather team won’t reliably alert you to the UV radiation index (UVI). The UVI measures the degree of UV radi- ation on a given day, which is unrelated to the temperature.

Knowing the UV radiation levels in your area can help you apply the optimal level of sun protection for your outdoor activities. J. Ryan Jackson, D.O., recommends checking the UVI daily using an easy-to-access smartphone application. I appreciate the UV index found on my weather app, says Dr. Jackson. This index assists me to make informed decisions about how much time I should spend in the sun and what types of sun protection I should include with my daily activities.

Wear Sunscreen Religiously

Great summer skin starts with an effective sunblock. Mitchel Goldman M.D., WestDerm Medical Di- rector, is an avid cyclist who takes sun protection very seriously. The single most important thing is sunscreen, in the summer and the winter, he says. We should all be using [sunscreen] every day, whether it’s in our morning moisturizers or foundations.
While sunscreen is instrumental for minimizing sun damage and age spots, it significantly reduces skin cancer risk. Even if we’re careful to apply sunscreen when we know we will spend the day out- doors, we might not be as vigilant in the car. We don’t realize we have to wear sunscreen when we’re driving, Dr. Goldman says. Your back window and side windows only block 2% of the ultraviolet rays, so the sun comes right in, even with the windows closed. The left side of the face, the left arm, and the left hand are especially vulnerable.

Wear Clothing with SPF

Although sunscreen must be reapplied periodically throughout the day, a more convenient alterna- tive for the body is sun protective clothing. “In addition to applying sunscreen, I wear sun protective clothing, Dr. Goldman says.

Sun protective clothing is extremely effective in blocking UV radiation. A garment with an ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) of 50 can block approximately 98% of harmful rays.

Combat Sun Damage

Skin rejuvenation is critical; boosting cell turnover can help dramatically mitigate superficial sun-re- lated damage. Dr. Jackson is an advocate for using products that facilitate this phenomenon. To reduce the severity of actinic damage I often recommend topical retinoids to the face three times weekly at night, increasing to nightly as tolerated, he says. A great starter retinol product is West Derm Retinol Serum 3X, a gentle, antioxidant-rich serum that penetrates deep into the skin without causing irritation.
Summer activities can also cause significant dehydration due to heavy sweating and even exposure to super-drying ocean water. Topical products that enhance environmental protection and boost hy- dration are excellent for minimizing and even reversing mild sun damage. After exercising I always apply SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic to my facial skin to further decrease ultraviolet damage, Dr. Goldman says. This vitamin C serum is a free radical-neutralizing formula that shields the skin from oxidative stress.

Get Plenty of Antioxidants

Healthy skin can also be achieved from the inside out. Antioxidants in deep green vegetables (spin- ach, kale, collard greens, and broccoli), beets, carrots, sweet potatoes, and dark chocolate are fan- tastic for ensuring optimal cell health. They combat oxidative stress, boost collagen production, and reduce your risk of developing serious health conditions like heart disease and even cancer.
However, if your lifestyle is extremely active, you might want an antioxidant boost. “I and my cycling teammates take SunIsdin, a natural supplement that provides antioxidants to protect the skin from ultraviolet damage, says Dr. Goldman. This daily supplement helps protect skin from photoaging (premature aging caused by continual exposure to UV radiation) and enhances elasticity, making skin less susceptible to dynamic wrinkles.

Dr. Jackson is also a big proponent of supplements and encourages his patients to enhance their anti- oxidant intake. I often recommend Heliocare Advanced with Nicotinamide to my patients, he says. Heliocare Advanced with Nicotinamide helps support skin health and maintain the skin’s ability to protect against free radical damage.
The best way to preserve the health and beauty of your skin? Regular visits to a dermatologist, of course! Our team of qualified, board-certified dermatologists offers comprehensive care for cosmetic and medical skin concerns. Whether you want your skin checked for abnormalities, would like effective acne treatment, or think an Intense-Pulsed Light (IPL) Photofacial could be right for you, we are more than happy to offer a consultation.

To find a clinic near you, please visit our location page and schedule an appointment today.

4 Sunscreen Ingredients to Avoid…and Why!

Sun protection shouldn’t leave your skin vulnerable to irritation, inflammation, or acne, nor should it lead to the accumulation of synthetic chemicals in your bloodstream. Unfortunately, certain sunscreens contain ingredients that might not be optimal for your overall health.
You must apply sunscreen generously. If you plan on spending a full day outdoors, it is recommended that you reapply approximately one ounce of sunscreen to your body every few hours (more frequently when swimming). That means your body is continually exposed to the ingredients in the product.
Sunscreen Ingredients to Avoid 
The next time you’re shopping for an effective sunscreen, here are a few ingredients that might be deal-breakers, particularly if you have sensitive or acne-prone skin.
Synthetic Ingredients 
Synthetic sunscreen ingredients are highly effective in deactivating ultraviolet (UV) rays before they cause damage to the skin. They are also used to create a more liquid, lightweight product that doesn’t leave a white cast. However, they might not be ideal for everyone. People with sensitive skin, for example, might be more likely to experience redness or inflammation from synthetic sunscreen ingredients.
While synthetic sunscreen ingredients have not been conclusively shown to cause long-term harm, ingredients like avobenzone, homosalate, octinoxate, octisalate, and oxybenzone are stored in the body for weeks after one application. Because sunscreens must be applied and reapplied daily, some synthetic ingredients can build in the system and even become detectible in breast milk.
Oxybenzone has been linked with hormone disruption, though not in humans. Hormone disruption occurs when chemicals mimic hormonal activity, causing the body to over or underproduce certain hormones. Moreover, if you have acne-prone skin, benzophenones could aggravate your skin and cause breakouts.
Bug Repellants (DEET) 
Having an insect repellent in your sunscreen seems like a convenient time-saver, but it’s less-than-ideal for sun protection and overall health. When used with DEET, (N,N-Diethyl-m-toluamide), some sunscreens efficacy is significantly diminished – sometimes by more than 30 %. This deficiency means that you must apply sunscreen more frequently to ensure sufficient protection, effectively exposing you to greater quantities of DEET.
Moreover, because sunscreen formulations are designed to be absorbed into the skin, other ingredients are being absorbed, too. This phenomenon might enhance the quantities of DEET you are absorbing.
To make sure you are getting the best possible sun protection while shielding yourself from pesky pests, use a sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher. After approximately 10-15 minutes, apply a separate insect repellent of your choosing. While DEET is highly effective, oil of lemon eucalyptus has been found to provide high levels of protection, though it must be applied more frequently.
Comedogenic Oils, Butters, and Waxes 
Acne-prone skin is especially sensitive to sunscreens containing breakout-inducing ingredients because sunscreen must be applied and reapplied thickly and throughout the day.
Coconut oil, cocoa butter, mineral oil, beeswax, and silicones can trigger breakouts in acne-prone skin. In addition to the ingredients listed above, check your sunscreen for the most common offenders:
  • Para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA)
  • Soybean oil
  • Wheatgerm oil
Fragrance
Another no-no for people with sensitive skin: Fragrance. While fragrances are frequently often used to make sometimes unpleasant sunscreen ingredients smell more inviting, the volatility of fragrance can cause irritation and allergic contact dermatitis. In fact, fragrance in cosmetics should be avoided whether you have sensitive skin or not!
Effective, Non-Irritating Sunscreens 
Well, now that you know what to avoid, what should you use?
Mineral sunscreens are the most effective sun protection products for people with sensitive and acne-prone skin. They are extremely gentle, and physically shield your skin from harmful UV rays. If you have oily skin, mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide offer an additional benefit: they leave a smooth, matte finish that absorbs shine.
At our clinics and online at shop.westderm.com, we offer a comprehensive range of sun protection products designed to deliver maximum SPF while being safe for all skin types. If you’re looking for the right sunscreen for your lifestyle, here are a few extremely effective products we recommend:
To schedule an appointment at one of our California, Nevada, or Arizona clinics, please visit our location page to find one near you.