Sunny weather is here and that means pool time! Yes, of course that also requires bikini- bod maintenance. Sure, we've all used the fast and probably not-so-safe route, but it’s a new season and time to get some professional insight on how to get your exterior looking and feeling gorgeous. Local Dermatologist and published writer Dr. Jennifer Cather, M.D. has a few tips on how to have your skin looking and feeling healthy all summer long.

 

 

"Moisturizing is an important part of any skin care regimen for men, women and children, and there are a variety of over the counter moisturizers. Lotions are thinner than creams, but creams are usually more effective. While bath oils coat the skin, they do very little to moisturize. The best penetration of moisturizers occurs if applied after a warm bath or shower. For dry problem areas such as knuckles, elbows and knees, acid-based products will help exfoliate and moisturize. Look for products containing alpha-hydroxy acids, lactic acids, or urea."

 

"Facial moisturizers should be non-comedogenic. Additionally, the use of topical antioxidants (Vitamin C, A, green tea) may be rejuvenating if used consistently over time. Interestingly, soy based creams have been reported to decrease the number and caliber of hair follicles making this a great choice for areas we want to reduce unwanted hair. For sensitive skin it may be best to avoid retinol containing products and instead choose product lines with the least number of ingredients—several over the counter options are available from Cetaphil, Neutrogena, Cerave, Elta and Vanicream."

 

"Skin requires protection year-round, especially in the summertime. Sunscreens should be applied 30 minutes prior to sun exposure. There are two kinds of sunscreens: physical and chemical blockers. Use a “broad-spectrum” (protection from UVA and UVB rays) sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or more to all sun-exposed areas and reapply every two hours, even when there is cloud cover. If exercising or swimming, apply more often. Stay out of the sun between 10:00 am and 4:00 pm. If your shadow is shorter than you are tall, seek shade."

 

Dr. Cather does not suggest getting your summer bronze from tanning beds but permits the use of self-tanners. "Using indoor tanning beds prior to age 35 is associated with a considerable increased risk in melanoma. [Alternatively,] pigmented lotions, artificial tanners, and bronze stains all have chemicals that react with the outer skin layer. Bronzers are made out of FDA-approved color additives and stain the skin for a short amount of time. Extenders, marketed as self-tanners or sunless tanners, interact with proteins in the skin to create a darker color. At this time, the only FDA-approved color additive for extenders is dihydroxyacetone (DHA). Make sure you exfoliate before you apply self-tanners so you get an even application."

 

When preparing for a day in the sun we sometimes tend to forget one of the most sensitive parts on our bodies – our lips! Dr. Cather recommends including lip balm with our sunscreen routine. "I am always amazed at how few women in my clinic develop skin cancers or pre-cancers on their lips compared to men. Lip products are helpful for skin cancer prevention. Check the label for SPF data, and apply before going outside and every two hours while at poolside!"