Skin and Cancer Associates, Florida

A private dermatology group of 80 dermatologists, nurse practitioners and physician assistants practicing at more than 30 locations in Florida.

WestDerm

How Skin Cancer Can Affect All Skin Types

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States, and it can affect you whether you have light, medium, or the darkest skin tones. 

According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD), one in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime. While fair skin tones are most at risk for sunburns and skin cancer, we are all exposed to UV rays, which puts us all at risk for developing skin cancer, no matter our skin tone. Yes, even those who tan easily and never burn can develop skin cancer. 

What Are the Skin Cancer Causes?

The most common cause of skin cancer is too much exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation—primarily from the sun, but also from tanning beds. While your skin is designed to protect you, prolonged UV exposure can, over time, damage the DNA in your skin cells.

When this damage happens, your body usually works to repair it. But sometimes, those repairs aren’t perfect. Over time, these small changes can build up, causing skin cells to grow and divide in ways they shouldn’t. Instead of behaving normally, these damaged cells can multiply uncontrollably, which is how skin cancer develops.

It’s important to know that this process often happens gradually, which is why protecting your skin early and consistently makes such a big difference.

What Is Your Skin Type, And Why Is It Important To Know?  

We use the Fitzpatrick scale to assess your risk of skin cancer based on your skin type. It rates two things: the amount of pigment in your skin and how your skin reacts to the sun. It can also indicate how likely you are to develop skin cancer. 

Knowing your skin type is crucial for skin cancer prevention. Not sure what your skin type is? Take the Fitzpatrick Skin Type quiz here. 

What Are The Risk Factors Involved In People With Lighter Skin Developing Skin Cancer? 

People with light skin are more susceptible to skin cancer because they have less melanin. Melanin is a pigment in your skin that helps to protect it from UV radiation damage. The less melanin someone has, the more likely they are to develop sun damage and skin cancer. 

People with red hair, freckles, and/or blue eyes, for example, are especially vulnerable to UV radiation. 

Can Dark Skin Get Skin Cancer?

Certain risk factors make people of color vulnerable to skin cancer. There is a common myth that people with naturally tanned or darker skin tones face less risk, leading them to be less likely to wear sunscreen or take other preventive measures to protect themselves. 

Did you know that Bob Marley died at just 36 years old from skin cancer? 

According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, he had “acral lentiginous melanoma (ALM), a serious and rare disease that is also the most common form of melanoma in people with darker skin tones.” 

Tips To Prevent Skin Cancer For People Of All Skin Types 

Skin cancer rates among adults over 50 continue to rise in the US, and people of all skin colors can still develop skin cancer. However, here are simple ways you can reduce your risk of getting skin cancer:

  • Sunscreen: Regardless of skin color, everyone should apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher to all exposed skin areas. Don’t forget to reapply sunscreen regularly throughout the day.
  • Clothing: Wear protective clothing, such as wide-brimmed hats and long-sleeved shirts, to shield your skin from harmful rays. Clothing with an ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) is specifically designed to protect the skin from the sun.
  • Sunglasses: Wear wraparound sunglasses that block UVA and UVB rays.
  • Shade: Stay under the shade as much as you can when you’re outside, particularly in the midday hours when the sun is shining the brightest.
  • Avoid indoor tanning: Using tanning beds or sunlamps exposes the skin to high levels of ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Over time, this exposure can lead to high skin cancer risk and other complications, like severe burns.

Take the Next Step: Schedule a Skin Cancer Screening Today 

Early detection of skin cancer is key to starting treatment for the best outcomes. Our dermatology providers perform regular exams on all skin tones to detect skin cancer and develop a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs. 

If you’re ready to schedule your personalized skin cancer screening exam, contact a location near you to schedule your appointment today. With the right personalized treatment plan, you can benefit from many more years of good health and great skin. 

What is Blue Light & Does it Damage Your Skin?

You’ve probably heard about protecting your skin from the sun, but what about your screens? Between smartphones, laptops, tablets, and LED lighting, most of us are spending more time in front of screens than ever before. While the convenience is undeniable, there’s a real question worth asking: does blue light damage skin?

The short answer is yes, and understanding how blue light affects your complexion is the first step toward protecting it.

What Is Blue Light?

Blue light is a form of high-energy visible (HEV) light sitting at the shorter end of the visible light spectrum, just above UV light in terms of wavelength. Unlike UV rays, which are blocked by glass and largely filtered by the atmosphere, blue light passes through windows and screens with ease.

It’s emitted by the sun in much larger amounts than your devices, but also by the LED technology that powers the screens you interact with all day: your phone, laptop, tablet, and television.

Where Does Blue Light Exposure Come From? 

The sun is still the dominant source of blue light, but in daily life, screen-based exposure has a distinct characteristic that matters for skin: proximity and duration.

Common sources include:

  • Smartphones
  • Laptops and tablets
  • Televisions
  • Indoor LED lighting

The closer your face is to a screen, the more intense the exposure. A full day of laptop use doesn’t deliver the same blue light dose as spending an afternoon outside, but the cumulative daily contact with screens adds up in ways researchers are still working to fully understand.

How Does Blue Light Damage Skin?

Blue light skin damage works differently than UV damage. It disrupts the skin at a cellular level through several mechanisms:

  • Free radical generation: Blue light penetrates deeper into the skin than UVB rays, triggering the formation of free radicals, unstable molecules that attack healthy cells and break down structural proteins over time. The result is accelerated skin aging: fine lines, loss of elasticity, and a dull, uneven complexion.
  • Oxidative stress: The free radicals generated by HEV light create oxidative stress in the skin, overwhelming its natural antioxidant defenses. Chronic oxidative stress is one of the key drivers of premature aging.
  • Blue light hyperpigmentation: Unlike UV-induced hyperpigmentation (which affects all skin tones), blue light hyperpigmentation is particularly pronounced in medium to deeper skin tones, leading to stubborn dark spots and uneven pigmentation that can be difficult to treat.
  • Disruption of the skin’s circadian rhythm: Your skin follows a circadian rhythm that governs its repair and renewal cycle. Most skin cell regeneration happens at night. Evening blue light exposure can interfere with these natural rhythms, reducing the skin’s ability to repair daily damage before the next day’s exposure begins.

While blue light isn’t known to cause skin cancer the way UV radiation does, the cumulative effects on skin aging and pigmentation are increasingly well-documented.

How Can I Protect My Skin from Blue Light?

The good news: you don’t need an entirely new skincare routine. A few targeted additions make a meaningful difference.

Daily Changes to Make

  • Apply broad-spectrum SPF daily, even indoors. Mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide create a physical barrier that reflects both UV and visible light, including blue light.
  • Step back from your screen. Increasing the distance between your face and your devices,  even a few inches, reduces blue light exposure. Consider adjusting your screen position or using a monitor stand to push the screen further away.
  • Enable Night Mode or blue light filter settings. Most smartphones and computers now offer built-in settings that shift your screen’s color temperature to warmer tones, reducing blue light output.
  • Prioritize your nighttime routine. Since skin repair peaks overnight, a consistent evening skincare routine helps counteract daily blue light damage. Cleanse thoroughly and give your skin the window it needs to recover.

Products to Try

  • Antioxidant serums containing Vitamin C, Vitamin E, niacinamide, or ferulic acid
  • Mineral SPF with iron oxides
  • Niacinamide treatments
  • Retinoids

Our board-certified dermatologists can assess where you are and build a personalized plan to protect against ongoing damage and address anything that’s already appeared. Book your consultation today and take the guesswork out of your skincare routine.

The Different Types of Acne and What They Say about Your Health

Are all acne blemishes the same? Is there a difference between blackheads and pimples? What about cystic acne?

While different types of acne may occur together, blemish types are distinct and frequently require a combination of treatment modalities. At Skin and Cancer Associates, our board-certified dermatologists are acne experts. We provide comprehensive treatment plans designed to address different types of acne and individualized to fit your unique skin condition. 

What Causes Acne?

Acne develops when your pores become clogged, a common process that starts with your skin’s natural functions. Your skin produces sebum to keep itself moisturized, and it regularly sheds dead skin cells. But sometimes, this oil and dead skin can build up and block your pores.

When a pore becomes clogged, it creates the perfect environment for bacteria that naturally live on your skin to grow. As these bacteria multiply, your body’s immune system steps in to fight them off. This response causes inflammation, which is why acne can appear red, swollen, and sometimes tender.

In short, acne is the result of a combination of clogged pores, bacteria, and your body’s natural defense response—all of which can vary from person to person.

The Different Types of Acne

Not all acne looks or behaves the same. While a single pimple is a clogged pore, acne is categorized by how deeply it penetrates the skin and how much inflammation it causes. Understanding the different types can help guide the most effective treatment.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the most common types of acne:

  • Blackheads: Open pores filled with oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria. The dark color comes from oxidation when the contents are exposed to air.
  • Whiteheads: Closed, clogged pores that appear as small white or flesh-colored bumps. Because they’re sealed, they don’t darken like blackheads.
  • Papules: Small, firm red bumps caused by inflammation deeper in the skin. These can feel tender and don’t contain visible pus.
  • Pustules: Inflamed pimples that contain pus, often with a white or yellow center and redness around them—what most people think of as a “classic” pimple.
  • Nodules: Larger, deeper, and more painful lesions that form beneath the skin’s surface. They are solid and can linger for weeks.
  • Cysts: The most severe form of acne. These deep, swollen lesions are often filled with pus and can be very tender, increasing the risk of scarring.

If you’re unsure what type of acne you have, a dermatologist can help identify it and recommend the right treatment plan.

Expert Acne Treatment at Skin and Cancer Associates

No two cases of acne are exactly alike, which is why treatment is always tailored to your skin and the underlying causes of your breakouts. Our goal is to clear your skin while preventing future flare-ups and minimizing the risk of scarring.

Depending on your needs, your treatment plan may include:

  • Topical treatments like retinoids to unclog pores and keep them clear
  • Medicated cleansers with benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid to reduce acne-causing bacteria
  • Prescription topical antibiotics such as clindamycin or azelaic acid for mild acne
  • Oral antibiotics (like doxycycline) for more persistent or widespread breakouts
  • Hormonal therapies, including birth control pills or spironolactone for hormone-related acne

For more severe acne—especially deep nodules or cysts—early treatment is essential. These types of breakouts carry a higher risk of permanent scarring, but with prompt care from a dermatologist, they can be effectively managed and controlled.

Improve Acne and Your Skin Health at Skin and Cancer Associates

At Skin and Cancer Associates, we understand that acne isn’t just a skin concern—it can affect your confidence, comfort, and overall well-being. That’s why we take a personalized, compassionate approach to care. Every treatment plan is thoughtfully designed around your unique skin type, acne severity, and long-term goals.

Our experienced dermatology team is here to listen, guide, and support you every step of the way. Whether you’re dealing with occasional breakouts or more persistent, severe acne, we offer advanced treatment options to help you achieve clearer, healthier skin.

You don’t have to manage acne on your own. With the right care, lasting improvement is possible.

Schedule a consultation with Skin and Cancer Associates today to receive a comprehensive evaluation and a customized treatment plan tailored to you.

Dermatologist-Approved Summer Skin Care Tips

Summer skin care tips are essential for protecting your skin from sun exposure, dehydration, and environmental stressors that can lead to premature aging and skin damage. Increased time outdoors during the warmer months can result in UV overexposure, uneven pigmentation, and long-term skin health concerns if not properly managed. By following dermatologist-recommended strategies, you can help keep your skin healthy, protected, and resilient all season long.

How to Check the UV Index for Better Sun Protection

The UV Index (UVI) is a simple scale that tells you how strong the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays are on a given day.

While standard weather forecasts will help prepare you for blazing temperatures, your local weather team won’t reliably alert you to the UV radiation index (UVI), which measures the intensity of UV exposure regardless of how hot or cool it feels outside.

Knowing the UV radiation levels in your area can help you choose the right level of sun protection for your daily activities. Our dermatologists recommend checking the UVI each day using a smartphone weather app, as it can guide decisions about how long to stay in the sun and what types of sun protection to use.

Wear Sunscreen Religiously

Summer skin care starts with wearing an effective sunscreen every day, whether it’s part of your morning moisturizer or applied on its own. Consistent daily use is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your skin.

While sunscreen helps minimize sun damage and age spots, it also plays a critical role in reducing the risk of skin cancer. Even if you’re diligent about applying it before outdoor activities, it’s easy to overlook sun exposure while driving, yet UV rays can still reach your skin through car windows. The left side of the face, arm, and hand are often the most exposed, making regular application even more important.

Add SPF Clothing to Your Summer Skin Care Routine

Although sunscreen must be reapplied periodically throughout the day, a more convenient alternative for the body is sun protective clothing.

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. UPF indicates how much UV radiation a fabric can block, helping protect your skin during extended sun exposure. Common options include wide-brim hats, long-sleeve shirts, and rash guards designed for outdoor and water activities.

How to Treat and Recover From Summer Sun Damage

Use Topical Retinoids to Boost Cell Turnover

Skin rejuvenation is critical; boosting cell turnover can help dramatically mitigate superficial sun-related damage. To reduce the severity of actinic damage, we recommend topical retinoids to the face three times weekly at night, increasing to nightly as tolerated.

Hydrate and Protect with Vitamin C After Sun Exposure

Summer activities can also cause significant dehydration due to heavy sweating and even exposure to super-drying ocean water. Topical products with vitamin C enhance environmental protection and boost hydration, making them excellent choices for minimizing and even reversing mild sun damage.

Boost Your Skin From the Inside Out With Antioxidants

Healthy skin can also be supported from the inside out through antioxidant-rich foods like spinach, kale, collard greens, broccoli, beets, carrots, sweet potatoes, and even dark chocolate. These nutrients help combat oxidative stress, support collagen production, and protect against damage linked to premature aging and chronic disease. For those with highly active lifestyles or increased sun exposure, certain supplements may provide additional antioxidant support to help defend against UV-related damage and maintain overall skin health.

See a Dermatologist for a Personalized Summer Skin Care Plan

The best way to preserve the health and beauty of your skin is by making regular visits to a dermatologist. At Skin and Cancer Associates, 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 CO2 laser skin resurfacing could be right for you, we’re here to offer guidance that helps you achieve the summer glow you desire.

Explore our locations and schedule an appointment today.

How Your Skin Warns You About Diabetes

Did you know that signs of diabetes can appear on your skin before other symptoms become obvious?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 38 million Americans have diabetes, and many do not know they have it. High blood sugar can affect circulation, nerves, and the immune system, all of which play an important role in keeping your skin healthy. As a result, many diabetes skin problems appear early and may serve as warning signs that blood sugar levels are elevated or poorly controlled.

Why and How Does Diabetes Affect Your Skin?

When blood sugar stays elevated, it can reduce circulation to the skin, damage the nerves that regulate skin function, weaken the immune system, and affect collagen and connective tissue. These changes can lead to diabetic skin conditions, including dryness, infections, discoloration, and slow-healing wounds.

10 Signs of Diabetes That Show Up On Skin

1. Dark, velvety skin on neck, armpit, or groin (Acanthosis Nigricans) 

Thick, dark patches that appear in skin folds are often linked to insulin resistance, which causes skin cells to multiply faster than normal. If these patches appear suddenly or begin spreading, see a doctor, as they can be an early sign of prediabetes or type 2 diabetes.

2. Skin spots or lines (Diabetic Dermopathy) 

These small, round, scaly patches develop when high blood sugar damages the small blood vessels supplying the skin. They are usually harmless on their own, but multiple patches on both shins can signal that blood sugar has been elevated for some time.

3. Painful skin that is swollen and hot (Skin Infections) 

Bacterial and fungal infections are more common in people with diabetes because high blood sugar creates an environment where germs thrive and the immune system is less effective. Seek prompt care for any spreading redness, warmth, swelling, or pus. Infections can escalate quickly when blood sugar is uncontrolled.

4. Open sores and wounds, especially on the feet (Diabetic Ulcers) 

Diabetic ulcers most often develop on the feet, where nerve damage can make injuries easy to miss and poor circulation prevents proper healing. Inspect your feet daily and contact your provider immediately if you notice any wound that is not closing. Untreated ulcers can lead to serious complications.

5. Yellowish patches around your eyelids that are scaly (Xanthelasma) 

These soft, waxy deposits are made up of cholesterol and fat that accumulate under the skin, often linked to high triglycerides and poorly controlled blood sugar. If you notice them forming, ask your doctor for a blood work check of your cholesterol and glucose levels.

6. Itchy skin that is extremely dry  

High blood sugar causes the body to lose fluids rapidly, dehydrating the skin, while nerve damage can impair sweat glands that normally keep skin moisturized. Persistent itching or cracking skin should be evaluated, as broken skin creates an entry point for infection.

7. Patches on your skin that are hard and red, brown, or yellow (Necrobiosis Lipoidica) 

These patches start as small, firm bumps and gradually expand, developing a shiny yellow center with a reddish border. The skin becomes fragile and prone to ulceration, so see a dermatologist if you notice these changes and treat any breaks in the skin promptly.

8. Thick, hard skin on fingers or toes (Digital Sclerosis) 

Long-term high blood sugar can cause collagen to thicken and stiffen, making the skin on the fingers or toes feel tight and waxy. If your fingers feel difficult to bend or the skin appears shiny and stiff, it may be a sign that blood sugar control needs attention.

9. A large blister or a group of blisters (Bullosis Diabeticorum) 

These fluid-filled blisters form without any injury and most often appear on the feet, legs, or hands. Do not attempt to drain them at home. See a dermatologist, especially if the blisters are large or show signs of infection such as redness or discharge.

10. Small yellowish-red bumps (Eruptive-xanthomatosis) 

These itchy clusters of bumps signal that triglyceride levels may be dangerously elevated, a sign that diabetes is not well controlled. If these appear suddenly, contact your doctor right away. With improved blood sugar management, the bumps typically resolve on their own.

Don’t Let Small Skin Changes Become Serious Complications

Concerned about potential skin issues? At Skin and Cancer Associates, our experienced dermatologists are here to help patients with diabetes. Our advanced treatments can help you prevent skin infections and develop a skincare routine to manage problems related to high blood sugar. Reach out to schedule a consultation today.

Escape from Eczema: Treatment & Relief Options

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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Is More Better? How Much Skincare to Really Use

It’s sometimes hard to gauge how much skincare product to use. You don’t want to use too much or too little. You want that “Goldilocks” amount that’s “just right.” Finding this balance is simple if you understand some general product guidelines.
 
Most People use too Much Product
We all tend to over-apply our skincare products without even thinking about it. Maybe we subconsciously think the extra product will give us extra-good skin, but it doesn’t work like that. The excess we apply goes to waste, and that’s a sad thought when you love top-of-the-line skincare products as much as we do.
 
The Right Amount 
If you think of how much skincare product to apply in terms of fruit, it’s pretty easy to keep things straight. Imagine the smallest amount as a pomegranate seed. It’s just enough to tap onto your face. The next amount is the size of a blueberry— enough product to spread in an even, thin layer. A cherry represents the amount of product that can be liberally applied all over your face. 
 
·     Pomegranate Seed Size
Retinols and serums are effective in the tiniest pomegranate-seed amount. You want to use enough product to get the full benefit, but not so much that your skin turns red or dries out. Start small and build up to what your skin can tolerate. The retinol you buy from your dermatologist is stronger than over-the-counter retinol, so a little goes a long way. 
 
·     The Size of a Blueberry
The next category of skincare products requires an amount the size of a blueberry. This includes moisturizers, night creams, and oils. You want enough to cover your face, but not liberally.
·     A Cherry Size
Sunscreen is the one skincare product where more is better. Too little leaves you under-protected. It’s best to apply it liberally. No, it won’t increase the SPF; that’s a myth. But applying a cherry-sized amount will ensure that every inch of your facial skin gets adequate protection, whether the sunscreen is tinted or untinted. 
 
Read the Product Instructions
Most skincare comes with instructions that recommended the amount of product to use for best results. You’ll want to follow the guidelines…eventually. At first, it’s best to start small and work up to the recommended amount once you know how your skin will react. 
 
Experiment to See What Works 
Experimenting will help you figure out what works for you. We each have unique skincare needs that don’t always match up perfectly with the product recommendations. If you use the recommended amount of moisturizer, for example, and your skin still feels tight, add a little more. 
 
Our board-certified dermatologists know just the right amount of skincare product to use. They’re great at explaining it, especially when they can assess your skincare needs in person and give you individualized advice. Feel free to request an appointment with us anytime.

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 Skin and Cancer Associates and The Center for Cosmetic Enhancement. We curate customized treatment plans to help you deal with hair loss and improve your hair health.

How to Pick the Best Sunscreen for Your Skin Type

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 Skin and Cancer Associates and The Center for Cosmetic Enhancement 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!