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

Summer Sun Safety Tips: Protect Your Skin Outdoors

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.
ðŸâ€˜’ 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!
ðŸâ€˜â€¢ 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.
âËœ‚️ 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.
ðŸâ€˜§ 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 Common Acne Myths & Misconceptions

“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!

Men’s Health Month: The Importance of Skin Checks

June is an important time for men because it’s Men’s Health Month! Its main purpose is to bring awareness to health issues and diseases prevalent among men and encouraging early detection and treatment. This also includes skin health! And with it being a time where we are all out in the sun more, it’s very important to consistently check your skin for abnormal moles that could be cancerous or precancerous, especially if you’re over 45.

As we age, the risk for developing skin cancers and other skin concerns increases. And according to a UK study, if you’re diagnosed with a non-melanoma skin cancer between the ages of 45 – 59, your risk for other types of cancer, not just another form of skin cancer, goes up by 74%. Because of this, your health check routine should start by making sure your skin is healthy first.

The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends you perform a skin check monthly to help identify any changing lesions that might be cancerous or precancerous. If you do find something atypical, it’s important you see one of our Skin and Cancer Associates and The Center for Cosmetic Enhancement board-certified dermatologists, who are specialists in skin cancer diagnosis and treatment. They can then conduct a more thorough in-clinic or telehealth exam to determine whether or not the abnormality is potentially harmful.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN CHECKING YOUR SKIN FOR SKIN CANCER

First, don’t be alarmed if you find a mole or two (or more). A normal mole is smooth to the touch and has a consistent color, could be brown, black, or tan. It has a consistent border, as well, and is oval or round, and it could have a flat or raised profile.

An irregular mole that you should have examined more often has an irregular shape or jagged border. It’s rough to the touch and is often a combination of colors: various shades of brown throughout the lesion or a mixture of red, white, and/or blue.

In addition, make sure to check new spots or lesions, or look for older ones that have changed in color, shape, size, or texture. Also, be on the lookout for atypical sores, lumps, or blemishes, especially ones that crust over, bleed, itch, ooze, and itch as well as cause pain or are tender to the touch.

HOW TO PERFORM YOUR OWN SKIN CHECK 

Although you can effectively perform your own skin check any time, doing so at shower or bath time is more convenient because you’ll already be naked. It doesn’t matter if it’s before or after, but looking at as much skin as possible is a must. If available, enlist the help of a partner, as a second pair of eyes is always a good idea to make sure nothing is missed, particularly on the scalp or back.

WHAT YOU’LL NEED:

  • A good, bright light
  • A full-length mirror
  • A hand mirror
  • Two chairs and/or stools
  • A brush and/or hairdryer

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

  1. Facing the full-length mirror, examine your lips, nose, mouth, forehead, ears, neck, shoulders, chest, arms, underarms, hands, palms, between the fingers, the fronts of the thighs, and the shins.
  2. Continue by bending your elbows to examine your forearms and the backs of your upper arms.
  3. Standing with your back to the full-length mirror and using the hand mirror, inspect the back of your neck, shoulders, upper back, and any part of your upper arms that you could not clearly view earlier.
  4. Continue in this position by scanning your lower back, buttocks, and the upper part of the back of your legs.
  5. Check your scalp by parting your hair – with a brush and/or hairdryer, if necessary – as well as around and behind your ears.
  6. While sitting on a stool or chair, prop your feet up and check the backs of your calves as well as the tops and bottoms of your feet, including between the toes.
  7. Finally, still sitting, use the hand mirror to examine your genitalia and any parts of the buttocks or upper legs you may have missed.

Be sure to honor Men’s Health Month by making skin checks an important part of your skin health routine. If you find an irregularity or skin change that cannot be explained, contact us immediately to schedule a full, comprehensive skin exam. In addition to performing your skin check monthly, it’s important to schedule an annual skin check with our dermatologists. Don’t wait – it could save your life.

Winter Activities? Your Sunscreen Better Be Ready Too

(*and your sunscreen better be ready too)

Sunscreen is always in season!

When you’re on the slopes during the winter months, almost completely covered by protective clothing, sun protection might not cross your mind—but for your skin’s health…and safety, it really should!
For skiers, snowboarders, or lodge goers alike, cold weather can mean more time outside, and more time outside equals more sun exposure…four to five percent more skin-damaging UV rays for every 1,000-foot increase in altitude to be exact. At a 10,000-foot elevation, that gets to be a very risky 40 to 50 percent increase in UV ray exposure.
That’s concerning news for anyone at risk of skin cancer, which really is everyone. Plus, the intensity of the sun’s rays’ double when they’re reflected off the snow …quite the “snowball” effect, huh?
All that said, you can still have fun in the mountains and on the slopes, and do it safely, if you follow these skin health check points below.

1) SUNSCREEN

Choose an SPF of 30+ water resistant sunscreen, and apply to easy-to-miss spots like your eyelids, tops of the ears, and nose.

2) LIP PROTECTION

Your lips are just as likely to sunburn as any other part of your face. Rather than putting all-over sunscreen directly on your lips, choose a lip balm with SPF.

3) DRYNESS

Try a moisturizer a bit more heavy-duty to sooth your parched skin at night. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, squalane, jojoba oil, marula oil, and avoid alcohol, fragrance, and parabens.
No matter how diligently you apply sunscreen, the best defense against sun damage is the care of a dermatologist. Book an appointment and let us help you with your skin health and give you our best insights for protecting your skin.

Are Hand Sanitizers Drying Out Your Skin?

With it being cold and flu season, we have all ramped up our cleaning routines and started using hand sanitizers more frequently. As a result, dermatologists have noticed an increase in skin sensitivity cases, that dryness, itchiness, and, in some cases, eczema. While these conditions can often be caused by regular allergies and stress, consistent use of chemical based products on the skin appears to be a common factor.
For many people, the increase in washing and sanitizing is a drastic change from the hygiene routine from even a few years ago. The sudden change in routine can be disruptive to the skin barrier. While we certainly want to continue being mindful about personal hygiene, we also want to be aware of the impacts this can have on our skin.
The skin on our hands is typically more resilient to harsh chemicals than other parts of the body. However, we’re seeing that people will often apply alcohol-based hand sanitizer to their hands and then touch their face causing sensitivity and dryness. Same goes for cleaning products that you use around your home. Some people have a higher tolerance to alkaline and chemical based products, but other people are especially sensitive to the repeated exposure. If you’ve noticed changes in your skin this year, consider the type of hand sanitizer and cleaning products you are using and how often you touch your face after application. It could very well be the reason that your skin is itchy and dry.

Ingredients Causing Skin Irritation 

As you may know, many hand sanitizers are alkaline-based with high alcohol and pH levels. Unfortunately, such ingredients kill good bacteria on the skin that helps keep it healthy. The repeated exposure to high alcohol levels can make your skin more susceptible to infection, allergic reactions, dryness, and other skin conditions such as eczema.
However, hand sanitizer isn’t the only culprit. Common household cleaners are also a cause for many skin issues. The ingredients in those products can include lye, sulfuric acid, ammonia, and other harsh chemicals that may dry or damage your skin.

Solutions for Protecting Your Skin 

While we certainly don’t want to stop washing our hands, using hand sanitizer, or cleaning, there are a few smart solutions that may help protect your skin. Here are a few quick tips to keep in mind:
  • Consider using an alcohol-free hand sanitizer such as hypochlorous acid. This solution is made up of water, chloride, and vinegar. It is strong enough to fight bacteria but less invasive on the skin.
  • Wash your hands with soap and warm water. Using hot water dries out your skin faster.
  • Don’t forget to moisturize your skin after washing. It helps to apply it while the skin is still damp to help retain some of the moisture.
  • Avoid using the same type of moisturizer for your face and hands. For hands, use thick creams or lotions. For the face, choose oil-free lotions that will keep your skin moisturized without creating breakouts. Plus, many oil-free moisturizers contain amino acids, antioxidants, and squalane that help retain moisture.
  • Avoid touching your face after applying hand sanitizer, as this will reduce your skin’s exposure.
  • Consider using natural cleaning products to avoid harsh chemicals.
  • If you do use regular household cleaning products, remember to wash your hands and avoid touching your face.
If you are experiencing dry and sensitive skin, please contact our office to schedule an appointment. Allow our board-certified dermatologists to evaluate your skin and offer a treatment solution that is right for you. We look forward to working with you to get your skin back to looking and feeling its best!

4 Sunscreen Ingredients to Avoid & Why They’re Harmful

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: fFragrance. While fragrances are frequentlyoften 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. 

UV Safety Month: Are You Forgetting Your Sunscreen?

It’s easy to forget about some of our most vulnerable spots when we’re applying sunblock. Unfortunately, the sun never forgets to emit harmful UVA and UVB rays that can wreak havoc on our skin and eyes if we aren’t relentlessly careful. Here are a few parts of the body we are the most likely to neglect to apply sun protection.
The Scalp 
How often do you put sunblock on your scalp? If you have a full head of hair (or if you think you have a full head of hair), probably never.
Yep – your scalp needs sun protection too! While hair does shield your scalp from the sun, unless your hair is uniformly thick, you should give your scalp extra protection.
The easiest way to protect your scalp from ultraviolet (UV) rays is to wear a hat while outdoors. However, if you aren’t fond of hats, you can apply sunscreen to parts of your head where your scalp is exposed. These include:
  • The hairline 
  • The part in your hair 
  • The crown where hair might be thinner 
It’s a good idea to apply sunscreen to any part of your head where your scalp is visible. 
The Feet 
The soles of the feet have a layer of thick, callused skin that protects them from harmful UV rays, but the tops of the feet do not. If you wear sandals, flip-flops, or other shoes that expose the tops of your feet, make sure to apply a layer of sunscreen. 
The Lips 
Did you know that skin cancer can affect the lips? If you have fair skin, you are particularly vulnerable to basal cell carcinomas and squamous cell carcinomas of the lips (particularly the lower lip), so make sure your lips are protected. 
Not all lip balms offer sun protection. Make sure the brand you choose has a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher. You should also reapply your protective lip balm every hour or so, and after you eat or drink. 
The Ears 
When applying sun protection to your ears, make sure to apply it to the backs of the ears in addition to the tops, earlobes, and any other exposed areas. Wide-brimmed hats are also extremely effective. You may not know it but the third most common location for skin cancers is the ears. 
The Eyes 
The area around the eyes is extremely delicate, so it’s understandable if you’re reluctant to apply thick sunscreen near your peepers (particularly if you have sensitive eyes or wear contacts). However, most mineral-based formulas designed to be applied to the face are perfectly safe and effective – you just must be careful to keep the sunblock out of your actual eyes. If you have concerns about sunblock melting into your eyes, stick sunscreens are easy to apply and are less likely to run into your eyes. 
As for the eyes themselves, always sport a pair of shades with 100% UV protection. 
The Neck 
Just because you can’t see the back of your neck doesn’t mean the sun can’t reach it! Always apply sunblock to your entire neck – not just the part under your chin. If you do a lot of driving, make sure you pay attention to the left side of your neck, since that area gets the most direct sunlight. 
The Hands 
You’ve probably done a fair amount of hand-washing these last few years, but how often do you apply (and reapply) sunscreen to your hands? Not only does sunblock help lower your risk of developing skin cancer, it also helps prevent the development of sunspots and other signs of premature aging and skin damage. 
Regular visits to a qualified dermatologist are essential for assuring a lifetime of healthy skin. Schedule an appointment with our team today! 

Repair & Rejuvenate Your Post-Sun Damaged Skin

Even if you’re vigilant about UV protection 99% of the time, one unprotected day in the sun can cause redness, irritation, and inflammation. Here’s what you need to get your post-sun skin back on track.
Summer is officially here! One day basking in the warmth of the glorious outdoors shouldn’t be a problem. Right?
Well… maybe.
Let’s be clear – sunlight is a fundamentally good thing. Exposure to sunlight is thought to influence our production of serotonin, a hormone that triggers feelings of satisfaction and calm. Sunlight also causes the body to synthesize vitamin D3, which offers immune system support and plays a role in mitigating depression. 
Unfortunately, too much sun exposure can have devastating effects on our skin, from sunburn, to premature aging, to certain cancers.
Sun protection, while important, requires vigilance. Even if we apply a generous amount of SPF 50 sunscreen 20 minutes before heading outdoors, we might not think to reapply it after a few hours, leaving us vulnerable to the uncomfortable after-effects of a day in the rays.
However, if your skin is a little sensitive at the end of the day, there are things you can do to mitigate some of the damage.
At Shop WestDerm, we offer a line of soothing products designed to repair and care for delicate skin in need of a little TLC. Here are a few products that will help you soothe and hydrate your skin after a day’s worth of rays.
Even a relatively short time in direct sunlight can lead to skin inflammation, redness, and irritation. EltaMD Skin Recovery Serum is designed to repair and enhance the skin’s barrier, the top layer of skin that protects your body from toxins – the same barrier that can become damaged after a carefree day in the sun. Noncomedogenic and free of fragrance, parabens, dyes, oils, and potential irritants, this serum is the perfect antidote to harsh sunlight and other environmental stressors. 
This specially engineered intensive antioxidant formula combines the power of science with the soothing natural wonders of highly effective botanical ingredients like calming green tea polyphenols, soothing willow bark extract, and skin-brightening vitamin C. Perfect for your after-sun care routine!
If you’re feeling the burn of your day in the sun, try this rich, luxurious, moisturizing balm designed to rejuvenate and protect delicate, sensitive, inflamed skin. With powerful hydrating and calming antioxidant ingredients like chamomile extract and shea butter, this beauty balm will help your skin stay healthy and radiant.
After a day spent frolicking in the sun, your body needs nourishment – and so does your skin! This rich, restorative cream delivers exceptional collagen support and gives your sensitive skin barrier a healthy boost of free radical-defying antioxidants.
For the ultimate beauty boost, give yourself the gift of full, soothing hydration! Our comprehensive line of antioxidant-intensive, damage-repairing products will give your tender skin the extra care it needs, day and night.
While a good aftercare program can help keep your skin healthy, the best defense against sun damage is an excellent offense. Protect your skin by scheduling regular appointments with the skin specialists at WestDerm. Schedule an appointment with our team today!

Battling Breakouts: 10 Reasons Your Acne Is Worse

We all have different physical characteristics – “perfect imperfections” – that give us our individual appeal and charm. Our different traits can tell a unique story, whether it’s a sprinkling of freckles, a gap between our two front teeth, or a childhood scar across an eyebrow.
And then there’s acne. 
Most of us have had to address acne at some point. Sometimes it’s just a pimple or two. Other times, it’s a cluster of painful cysts. Without a doubt, the best way to manage acne will always be the personalized care you receive from a qualified dermatologist. What you do between visits to your dermatologist matters too. Here are 10 common habits that can jeopardize even the best acne treatments. 
1. Popping your pimples. 
Popping pimples is one of the worst habits for your complexion. Not only do you risk exacerbating the problem and causing scars, but you can also introduce harmful bacteria that can lead to infections and even serious medical issues. The risk is particularly great if you pop pimples around your mouth, on your nose, and between your eyebrows. 
2. Not wearing sunscreen. 
If you struggle with acne, smearing thick, greasy sunscreen on your face every day might seem like a recipe for pore-clogging disaster. However, wearing the right sunscreen can actually help prevent acne by protecting your skin from UV damage that can aggravate your skin and make acne worse. Just make sure you use sunscreen that is appropriate for your skin type, like the ones we carry on our online shop. 
3. Failing to cleanse your face before exercise. 
We all know that we should cleanse our skin after a hard, sweaty workout. But how often do you cleanse your skin before working out? 
Exercising is fantastic for your skin. However, sweating with a dirty face can irritate your skin and clog your pores. Your skin is especially vulnerable if you routinely wear makeup (primer, foundation, blush, etc.) before hitting the gym. You don’t have to perform an entire skincare routine before your CrossFit session – just use a gentle makeup remover to get rid of the residue from makeup, oil, or dirt. After your workout, gently wash and moisturize your face. 
4. Cleansing your face too aggressively. 
Over-washing your face and using acne treatments that are too harsh will cause your skin to become irritated, dry, and more prone to breakouts. Gentle cleansing is key. 
5. Failing to change your pillowcase. 
Your pillow and pillowcase can accumulate bacteria, oils, and dirt very quickly (yuck!), so make sure to launder your pillow when necessary and change your pillowcase at least twice weekly. 
Also, use a pillowcase that isn’t rough on your skin – silk pillowcases are great because they’re non-irritating and extremely gentle, but hypoallergenic cotton and satin pillowcases are great, too. 
6. Failing to cleanse your makeup applicators. 
Makeup brushes and sponges harbor bacteria, accumulated makeup products, dirt, skin cells, oils – basically everything that causes acne. Wash your makeup applicators at least once weekly to ensure you don’t re-introduce harmful irritants to your skin. 
7. Touching your face. 
It’s hard to stop touching our faces, but our hands can spread acne-causing bacteria, leading to inflammation and breakouts. Avoid wiping or scratching your face with your bare hands; keep a tissue handy if you need to wipe away sweat or scratch your nose. 
8. Using skin-irritating hair styling products. 
While some products are great for your hair, they might not benefit your skin. Products with heavy silicones and emollients can trigger breakouts by attracting bacteria and clogging pores. If your hair serums and stylers are too effective to give up, wear your hair away from your face and don’t apply products too close to the hairline. 
9. Not washing your hats. 
If you wear sun hats, visors, ball caps, helmets, or other headgear that touches your face, wash them regularly according to the manufacturer’s directions. 
It’s also important to let your skin breathe. If you wear headgear for most of the day, remove it periodically to wipe away accumulated sweat and allow your skin to dry. Also, make sure your hat isn’t too tight; the friction can lead to – you guessed it – breakouts. 
10. Skipping visits to the dermatologist.  
If you struggle with acne, the best way to address it successfully and quickly is by having customized treatment from a dermatologist. Not only will you get to the root of the issue, but you will also save money on skincare; no more buying drugstore products on a trial-and-error basis. 
Take charge of your skin and banish blemishes once and for all! The team at our clinic offers next-generation skincare solutions that help people of all ages and skin types achieve healthy, clear, beautiful skin. Schedule your visit with us today! 

Teen Acne: How to Deal with Breakouts Effectively

If you’re a teen, then it’s likely that you’ve had acne at some point. Not only can acne be uncomfortable, but it can also be a bit embarrassing. If you’ve been struggling, know that you aren’t alone. In fact, 8 out of 10 teens have acne. Even though your friends likely struggle with acne, too, it’s still probably something you want to get a handle on right now when school is out. It’s the perfect time to get your skin prepped and ready for the new school year ahead.
 
And if you’re a parent with a child that is currently experiencing acne, read on for tips on how to help them overcome it.
 
What Causes Teen Acne?
It helps to know why you get acne, so you can also learn how to treat it. Your skin is made of thousands of little pores, and each of those pores contains oil glands. When you hit puberty, you have an increase in a hormone called androgens. The excess of this hormone causes your glands to produce too much oil and your pores to become enlarged. This is the perfect recipe for acne breakouts. 
 
What Can You Do About It?
While teen acne is incredibly common, there are some things you can do to help your skin out. Here are some quick tips for what you should do to help avoid or treat acne.
 
Choose a Mild Cleanser
It’s important to choose a mild cleanser because even though you’ll need to wash your face daily, you definitely don’t want to dry it out. Avoid scrubbing with a cloth or exfoliating brush, and instead, gently wash your face with your fingertips. You want to avoid irritating your skin. We recommend Skin and Cancer Associates and The Center for Cosmetic Enhancement Acne Clearing Cleansing Gel.
Don’t Rely On Over the Counter Medications
Over-the-counter acne medication can work for some people, but if you have a severe breakout, you’re going to need professional help. The severity of your acne will determine which types of treatment are best for you, and you may need a prescription-strength medication.
 
Don’t Skip Moisturizing
It may feel counterproductive to apply moisturizer to a face with breakouts. However, you should never skip moisturizing as your skin needs it for hydration and repair. In fact, some people break out because their skin is not properly hydrated, so make sure that you choose a moisturizer that is oil-free and non-comedogenic. These terms simply mean that the moisturizer won’t create whiteheads or blackheads that clog your pores. We recommend SkinMedica Ultra Sheet Moisturizer.
Wash Off Your Makeup
Never, ever sleep in your makeup. Doing so will only clog your pores and irritate your skin. Make an effort to go to bed with a clean face every night. 
 
Be Mindful of Your Hair Products
Sometimes people don’t realize that their hair products can also cause an oil buildup on their skin. If you use oily hair products that touch your face, then it is likely that your pores will clog. Choose products that are oil-free, especially those that may come in contact with your skin. 
 
Creating a quality skincare routine that protects you from breakouts is an excellent way to avoid breakouts as much as possible! If you have any questions, would like to schedule an appointment for yourself or for your teen, contact us today for an appointment with one of our board-certified dermatologists.