3 Dermatologist Tips To Finding The Right Sunscreen | Southlake, TX

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According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, the best way to protect your skin is to apply sunscreen. With the ozone getting more and more depleted year after year, we need more and more protection, and that often comes in the form of sunscreen. You should apply sunscreen when you’re about to go out and even if you are staying at home. Ultraviolet radiation from the sun can travel through your windows’ glass panes and come in contact with your skin.

Even if it looks gloomy outside, most dermatologists recommend that you slather on some sunscreen. The weather doesn’t dictate whether you are exposed to ultraviolet radiation or not. One of the biggest mistakes that most people make is that they only apply sunscreen when it’s hot outside, which means that they neglect a good portion of the year (depending on where they live).

Finding the right sunscreen, however, can be difficult. Many people tend to just pick up whatever they have lying around at home, which can be tricky because it might not be the most effective and might not be the best for your skin. Due to this reason, you should always speak with a dermatologist if you have the chance. Ask a dermatology expert in Southlake, TX what type of sunscreen you should use and whether they have any products or brands that they recommend. They’ll be able to recommend a higher quality product that works more effectively.

#1. Look at the SPF Rating

This should be a given and should be one of the first things that you do when you buy a new sunscreen. You really need to consider looking at the amount of SPF that the sunscreen has to offer. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends that you use a minimum of SPF 30; however, your dermatologist might recommend that you use something a bit higher. That’s especially true if they’ve discovered that your skin is much more susceptible to the effects of UVA and UVB rays. For example, you might have more hyperpigmentation.

SP5 30 provides about 95% protection for your skin. SPF 25, on the other hand, is only able to offer about 93% protection. Although this is better than nothing, it’s not ideal. If you want to max out your SPF, our doctors highly recommend that you go with something that’s SPF 50 and higher, as that will be able to offer you at least 97% protection.

It’s important to note that there is no sunscreen that can block out 100% of the sun’s rays. That’s actually impossible. In addition, there have been some studies that showed that an SPF that’s higher than 50 doesn’t actually offer more protection.

#2. Consider Your Skin Type vs the Ingredients

Another thing that you should consider is your skin type. This is also one of the reasons why we recommend that you speak with a dermatologist. You’ll get a better idea of what your skin type might be and what you need to deal with it properly.

There are many sunscreens that are made to suit specific skin types: dry, oily, or sensitive. For example, sunscreen that’s designed for those with dry skin typically contains silicones and aloe or lanolin, and oils. These oils will help moisturize the skin instead of drying it out. You should notice a difference when you apply it.

On the other hand, those who have sensitive skin will want to look for hypoallergenic options. These sunscreens tend to be fragrance-free and will not contain any preservatives or alcohol.

Another thing to note is that you should avoid alcohol in the ingredient list if you are prone to acne or have rosacea. The alcohol will make your condition much worse. This is also why you should always have a dermatologist look over the ingredient list if you struggle with specific skin conditions or disorders. You don’t want to choose a product that will only make your situation worse.

#3. Find Sunscreen that Fit in With Your Routine

Last but not least, to ensure that you will use the sunscreen as much as possible, most dermatologists will recommend that you find a sunscreen that fits with your routine. This last tip is mostly for those who like to apply makeup. Don’t forego sunscreen with makeup that has some SPF in it. Instead, you should look for a sunscreen that will evenly blend in with your makeup when you use it as a base.

This can be difficult, so you might need to try out different brands. Some cosmetic brands have also created their own sunscreen, and if you already use their makeup, you might want to give their sunscreen a try as well since it will be more likely to flawlessly blend in with your makeup.

Contact Us for More Information

Protecting your skin from the sun doesn’t stop at just applying the right type of sunscreen. There is so much more than you can do to protect your skin from the free radicals and ultraviolet radiation that’s in the environment. For example, you can always get a HydraFacial in Southlake, TX with the right type of serum ingredients. Vitamin C, for example, can help fight off the effects of photoaging and will protect your skin from ultraviolet light and free radicals in the environment. If you’re not sure what serums you need, don’t worry. Our dermatologists can help and will personalize treatment for you.

There are so many different types of skincare treatments and products that it can be difficult to figure out what you need. Instead of attempting to figure out this information on your own, consider speaking with one of our dermatologists in Southlake, TX. They’ll be more than happy to answer any questions or concerns that you may have. For more information, give us at Compassion Dermatology a call at 817-380-5911 or reach out to us through our online contact form. We’ll get back to you as soon as possible.


10 Dermatologist Tips For Saving Skin From Sun Damage | Southlake, TX

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Ask any Southlake, TX dermatologist for their top piece of advice for preserving the youthful appearance of skin and they’ll likely answer, “protect it from the sun”. Sun damage is cumulative and can lead to premature aging, wrinkles, and, in worst-case scenarios, certain kinds of skin cancer. Here are some of the top suggestions from certified dermatologists. They deal with sun-damaged skin on a daily basis. Sure, some sun damage can be reversed using specialized treatments and procedures, but prevention is still your best bet for life-long great skin.

Use Sunscreen

Science has taught us the necessity of protecting skin in a changing environment that is becoming increasingly harsh. Broad spectrum sunscreens (products that address both types of ultraviolet light, or UV and UVB sun rays) are a useful line of defense. Apply daily before sun exposure, on the face, arms, legs, and body parts that you might forget are also vulnerable such as ears and the tops of your feet. For best results, apply 15 to 20 minutes before going out in order to give the skin a chance to fully absorb the protection. With so many products available these days, there are options for creams, lotions, and sprays in different formulations. Choose the one you are most likely to use consistently every day.

Wear a Hat

Physically blocking sun rays from hitting your scalp, hair and face is also a good idea. Choose a hat with a wide brim (today’s fashionable bucket hats are ideal) in a light color. You don’t have to wear it all day, but when the sun’s rays are harshest in the afternoon, or around the beach – wearing a hat can reduce the risk of burns and heat stroke.

Use a Sunblock

While sunscreens use chemistry (and agents such as avobenzone and octinoxate) to protect your skin from the sun, sunblock creates a physical barrier with minerals like titanium oxide and zinc oxide to keep rays from reaching your skin. When you see lifeguards wearing unabsorbed white cream on their noses, it’s a mineral-based sunblock. It’s great for protecting very vulnerable areas, or if you are fair-skinned and must be in direct sunlight for a period of time.

Re-apply, Re-apply, Re-apply

Sunscreen needs to be re-applied frequently to be an effective protection for fragile skin. Dermatologists recommend refreshing sunscreen every two hours or so while in the sun, more frequently if you are swimming, exercising, or sweating heavily. This applies even if you are using a waterproof or resistant sunscreen.

Up the SPF

Sun protection factor (SPF) is a scale that indicates how long you can stay in the sun without burning if you use sunscreen. Go for at least a 30 SPF for outdoor use – this means that, with proper application, your skin is 30 times less likely to burn than it would be going without sunscreen. These days, it’s not uncommon for sunscreen products to be available in SPF 60 or 70.

Explore Sun-Protective Clothing

In response to increased awareness about sun damage, the fashion industry is innovating with UV-filtering fabrics that can be worn in the sun, even while swimming. These fabrics are ranked using a UPF scale, which stands for ultraviolet protection factor. UPF protection clothing rated 50 means that only 2% ( or 1/50th) of UV rays can penetrate the fabric. So the higher the UPF rating is, the more UV protective the piece of clothing is. One note: wearing UPF clothing doesn’t mean you can go without sunscreen.

Monitor for Skin Cancers

Sun damage can alter human DNA, and lead to disruptions at the cellular level. And sun damage accumulates over your lifetime and can result in a number of types of skin cancer. The most deadly type of cutaneous cancer, melanoma, has increased radically in the past few decades according to the Mayo Clinic. Especially if you are over the age of 60, keep an eye out for skin irregularities like tags, spots of discoloration, or moles, and consult with a dermatologist or doctor if you suspect they are out of the ordinary.

Avoid Peak Sun Hours

In North America, the sun’s UV rays are at their most fierce and potentially damaging between 10 am and 4 pm. Avoid being outdoors in direct sunlight during this time, especially during summer months, if it’s possible. Sunny winter days can also wreak havoc on skin.

Cold Weather Precautions

Be extra careful around water, snow, and sand. These elements all have reflective properties that can amplify the effects of UV rays, and bounce them onto unprotected areas of your skin. So be extra cautious and attentive to sunscreen when skiing on a sunny day or hanging out at the beach.

See a Dermatologist Regularly

In addition to providing great advice about ongoing sun care, a certified dermatologist can recommend corrective treatments such as laser or chemical peels that can help reverse superficial sun damage. Dermatologists are also familiar with innovations in the field and can recommend the newest and best sun care products. Finally, certified dermatologists can help learn about your skin, its care, and the threats against it. This is not just a cosmetic concern (though we are all impacted by the aesthetics of aging, and each of us is deserving of efforts to control it to the best of our ability), it’s a question of health and wellbeing.

If you live in the greater Southlake, TX area and would like to learn more about how dermatology can help repair and prevent sun damage to your skin, get in touch with the experts at Compassion Dermatology. Their certified dermatologists have a wealth of knowledge to share. Call 817-380-5911 or use the handy contact form to book a consultation today.


Dermatology: Why Your Sunscreen Isn’t Working Properly | Southlake Area

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Summer is a great time to get out and enjoy the weather, but only when it’s done safely and sensibly. Unfortunately, if you spend too much time outside without taking the time to cover up with sunscreen, you’re going to find yourself needing dermatology services in short order.

But sometimes, you make sure to bring sunscreen with you and make sure to apply it. Yet when you return to your home, you still find that you’ve gotten a sunburn.

Is your sunscreen defective? Probably not. The more likely explanation is that you made a mistake that caused your sunscreen to fail when you needed it. Luckily, when you know what the problem is, you’ve got a much better chance of stopping it before you make your next dermatology appointment. Learn what you might be doing wrong here!

You Waited Too Long to Apply

Putting on sunscreen the second you get into the sun might seem to be all you need to do, but the reality is that if you wait until you’re in the sun, you’re already too late to completely prevent sun damage. For most sunscreens, you need to apply 15 to 20 minutes before you get into the sun in order to provide full protection, because your sunscreen needs time to sink into your skin.

Any expert in dermatology will tell you that applying sunscreen the second you get into the sun is much better than doing nothing. However, waiting that long still puts you at slight risk for sun damage. If you wait until you’ve already been in the sun for a little while, the damage is likely to be even worse. Once you’ve been in the sun, you’re only protecting yourself from further damage beyond what has already occurred.

You Didn’t Use Enough Sunscreen

Using sunscreen is always a wise decision, but there’s no reason that you should be conservative with the amount that you apply. Just getting your face and back isn’t enough for you to prevent dermatology-based issues; you need to make sure that you cover every exposed part of your body with sunscreen.

Plus, you need to make sure that you’re using enough of it. Most people need about a shot glass’ worth of sunscreen to properly protect their body from the sun. If you’re in a sunny place, such as the Southlake area, you might want a little bit more to be absolutely safe. You’ll also want to make sure that you rub in your sunscreen to make sure it can get into your skin. If you don’t rub it in properly, that’s basically the same thing as failing to use enough.

You Forgot to Re-Apply

Many people who have severe dermatology issues caused by sunburns actually did think to apply sunscreen before they went out into the sun. So why did they still come home with a sunburn? Simple: they stayed out in the sun for several hours and never re-applied it.

Unfortunately, sunscreen only lasts for about an hour or two before it’s no longer effective. If you don’t take the time to re-apply your sunscreen every two hours, you’re probably going to end up with a painful sunburn at the end of the day, even if you slathered on sunscreen well before you went into the sun. Always be sure that you take some extra sunscreen with you whenever you spend a day in the sun so that you can re-apply as the day progresses.

You Have the Wrong SPF Sunscreen

It’s important for you to choose the right SPF for your skin type, depending on how easily your skin burns. If your dermatology history includes several sunburns, you probably need to go beyond the standard SPF 30 sunscreen that many people regularly use. If you have sensitive skin, a sunscreen with an SPF of 50+ can usually offer the sun protection that you need in order to enjoy your day in the sun.

However, the SPF only really matters if you’ve taken the time to properly apply your sunscreen. If you’ve applied sunscreen incorrectly, you’re going to end up with far less protection than your SPF suggests. An SPF 30 sunscreen that’s been properly applied at the correct time will always offer more protection than an SPF 50+ sunscreen that hasn’t been rubbed into your skin correctly.

Your Sunscreen Has Expired

Sometimes, your dermatology issues really were caused by your sunscreen. Unlike with some products, sunscreen expiration dates must always be taken seriously, because once they hit their expiration dates, they lose much of their effectiveness. Most sunscreens can protect your skin properly for about three years from the date of purchase, and if you regularly go out into the sun, you’ll probably never need to worry about your sunscreen expiring on you.

But if you’re the kind of person who rarely exposes your skin to the elements unless you’re going swimming, you risk opening yourself up to sunburn and other issues if you don’t make sure that you’ve got fresh sunscreen when you apply it. If your sunscreen has hit its expiration date and you have a history of sunburns, save yourself the worry of a serious skin problem and buy a fresh bottle before you go swimming. Your skin will be much better for it.

What Can You Do to Prevent Issues?

One of the smartest things you can do when it comes to dermatology is to get as much information as you can. At Compassion Dermatology, we’re happy to help you figure out exactly how to take care of your skin so that you can enjoy summer in the Southlake area without developing a sunburn or long-term skin problems. We can help you figure out what sunscreen you need to use when you go outside and other simple things you can do to help protect your skin from serious issues. Contact us today to set up an appointment!


Sunscreen Myths | Insight from Your Southlake, TX Dermatologist

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Over 9,500 people are diagnosed with skin cancer every year in the U.S. One of the best protection against skin cancer is by covering up in the sun and regularly applying sunscreen. Unfortunately, there are dozens of sunscreens to choose from and everyone has a different idea about what’s good for your skin. Skip looking for answers in magazines and contact your dermatologist.

You Don’t Need Sunscreen on Cloudy Days

False. Whether the sun is visible or hiding behind clouds, the ultraviolet A and B rays (UVA and UVB) still penetrate the clouds and your skin. Yes, the clouds reduce some, but only about 25% and if you go outside without protection, 75% is still infiltrating your skin. The best answer, according to Southlake, TX, dermatologists is to never skip or skimp on the sunscreen when heading outside.

Additionally, make sure to add protective clothing, including sunglasses to protect your eyes and a hat to protect your scalp. Sun can penetrate your skin, which is why you’ve probably felt a little sore after a day in the sun without that hat. If you’re concerned about sun damage to your scalp, make an appointment with your local dermatologist.

Having a Tan Protects Your Skin Enough

False again. In fact, this one is scary because that tan is your body’s response to UVA and UVB exposure. The sun has already damaged your skin and by heading outside again without sunscreen, it’s going to increase the damage and your risk of developing skin cancer. Additionally, some people believe that heading to a tanning booth for a baseline tan can add another layer of protection. Instead of helping your skin, taking these steps can cause additional harm. If you have questions about tanning booths and their safety, speak with a dermatologist about the damage these devices can do to your skin.

Naturally Dark Skin Protects Your Skin from the Sun

The pigment of your skin doesn’t protect you from cancer. Whether you have a light or dark complexion, the only way to prevent skin damage and cancer is to cover it up, both with a quality sunscreen and with clothing.

You Don’t Need to Put Sunscreen Everywhere 

Many people believe that you can’t get skin cancer in areas that aren’t exposed to the sun. However, this is another false statement. If you notice an area of your body with an unusual rash, even if it’s somewhere you’d never think about spreading a layer of sunscreen, such as your armpits or the soles of your feet, contact your Southlake, TXdermatologist for the next available appointment. The most successful path to stopping cancer is a prompt diagnosis and beginning treatment as soon as possible.

Swimming or Water Protects You from the Sun

Actually, the opposite is true. UVB rays penetrate water, which means even if you’re up to your neck in a pool, lake, or the ocean, you’re still being exposed. Plus, water reflects sunlight, increasing your exposure to UV rays. Always apply sunscreen before and after getting out of the water, even if the brand is water-resistant. For questions about water-resistant sunscreens and how effective they are, speak with your Southlake, TXdermatologist.

You Can’t Tan with Sunscreen

Even if you apply sunscreen regularly throughout the day, the sun will still penetrate your skin and leave a tan. But, consider applying a fake, spray tan instead. It looks great, isn’t painful, is safe, and best of all, a spray tan won’t increase your chances of skin cancer (as long as you continue to wear a sunscreen with a high SPF.)

If you’re concerned about the safety of spray tanning products, make an appointment to speak with a Southlake, TXdermatologist. He or she can recommend products that are safe and help you find the right sunscreen and other skincare products to protect and care for your skin. For the best results, look for a sunscreen that includes all of these ingredients for full-spectrum protection.

All Sunscreens Are the Same

Just like the prices vary, the ingredients, effectiveness, and safety of the products are different. Always check the active ingredients before purchasing or applying sunscreen. For example, titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, and ecamsule filter out UVA and UVB rays while avobenzone blocks the sun. Additionally, these come in different SPFs, varying from 15 to over 50. For best results, always use the highest SPF.

You Don’t Need to Reapply Sunscreen

This is a big mistake people make that causes sunburns and can lead to skin cancer. Always reapply sunscreen every two to four hours and more often if you’re in the water or competing in sports or other activities that increase sweat and reduce the effectiveness of the sunscreen. No matter how high the SPF is, there are no sunscreens that last all day long. Also, always check the expiration date on your products. If it’s past the date, toss it and buy a new bottle. For questions about the safety of sun care and sunscreens, contact your dermatologist for a consultation.

If You Always Wear Sunscreen, You’ll Never Get Skin Cancer

Covering up and wearing sunscreen is the best way to prevent skin cancer. However, nothing is 100% full proof. However, you can reduce the chances of developing skin cancer by wearing sunglasses, loose protective clothing, and hats when you’re in the sun and staying out of the sun during peak hours. If you can avoid outdoor activities, even on cloudy days between 10 am and 1 pm, it’s possible to reduce exposure and your risk of skin cancer.

However, you also need to consider other factors, such as family history. If you are concerned about your chances of developing skin cancer, it’s important to speak to your primary care doctor and keep regular checkups with your dermatologist.

The best place to get help with sunscreen facts is at Compassion Dermatology, your Southlake, TX dermatologist. If you have any questions or concerns about skin care, schedule an appointment today.


Common Sunscreen Mistakes You Must Avoid | Tips from Your Southlake, TX Dermatologist

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Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States. Every 1 in 5 Americans gets affected by it during their lifetime. Yet majority of cases of skin cancer could be easily prevented by protecting your skin from the harmful UV exposure. That’s why we can’t stress enough the importance of sun protection for your skin. Wearing a good quality sunscreen is actually one of the healthiest things you can do for your skin.

According to dermatologists in the Southlake, TX area a good sunscreen with powerful UVA and UVB protection not only reduces the risk of skin cancer, it also protects your skin from getting burned, minimizes the development of wrinkles and reduces signs of premature aging.

Most dermatologists recommend using a mineral-based sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 and water-resistant formula. These sunscreens usually contain zinc and titanium and are often known as physical sunscreens. This is because they form a physical shield over the skin to prevent the UV rays from reaching it. The other type of sunscreen is the chemical sunscreens that absorb the UV rays and convert them to heat in the body. They’re slightly irritating and less moisturizing.

Other than the type or brand of sunscreen that you choose, there are other factors too that determine the overall effectiveness of the sun protection. Dermatologists emphasize that correctly applying the sunscreen is also crucial for your skin health.

Here we’re going to go through some of the most common sunscreen fails and how you can steer clear of them. So, let’s begin.

1.  You’re Not Applying Enough

There’s no such thing as too much sunscreen. If you really want to make the most of the high SPF of your product, a little dab won’t do. If you’re not going to wear enough of the sunscreen, its protective factor would be compromised. This means that an SPF 50 sunscreen won’t give you SPF 50 protection.

Dermatologists recommend that for adults, 1 ounce (one shot glass) is the right amount of sunscreen to apply all over the body, whenever you plan to wear your bathing suit. For face and front of the neck a nickel sized dollop is enough.

It can vary slightly based on the surface area of your body. Just make sure you’ve got enough cover all the exposed areas. If you’re getting a tan even after wearing sunscreen, it shows that you’re not applying the right amount.

2.  You Don’t Reapply

If you apply sunscreen every morning thinking you’ll be safe for the entire day, you’re wrong! Sunscreen cannot last that long.  Even water proof formulas and high SPFs do not guarantee a 24-hour protection. Therefore, theyask their patients to reapply the sunscreen every 2 hours to keep it effective. This is because the active ingredients in the sunscreen (whether chemical or physical) keep getting consumed while blocking the UV rays.

Furthermore, sweating, swimming, washing, wiping also cause the sunscreen to was off. Thus, reapplication is required every time it wears off.

3.  You Only Wear It on Sunny Days

A lot of people wrongly assume that sun protection means keeping away from the sunlight. While this belief is not completely wrong, the truth is that your main concern is the UV rays that are actually invisible to the human eye.

Dermatologists point out that about 80% of the UV rays are present even on the cloudiest of days as clouds cannot block UV rays, especially the UVA rays. UVA rays can easily pass through clouds, haze or fog and penetrate deep in to your skin. They are the main culprit in causing premature skin aging and possibly skin cancer.

4.  You Miss the Important Spots

Just applying sun block on your face, neck, arms, legs and back isn’t enough. It’s important to apply sunscreen to every area that will be exposed to the sun. A lot of people often miss the eye lids, eyebrows, area around the hairline, ears, lips, back of the neck, etc. Dermatologists report that basal or squamous cell cancers (slow growth cancer in the outer layers of skin) most commonly affect these areas as they’re left unprotected and are frequently exposed to the sun.

Lips are especially vulnerable to sun damage as they have very little melanin in them (the natural pigment that gives some sun protection). Therefore, you should look for products like lip balms and lipsticks that come with SPF and apply it every 2 hours.

5.  You Think Wearing Makeup That Comes with SPF Is Enough for You

Although it’s great to use more makeup and skincare products that come with some SPF such as moisturizers, primers, bb creams, foundations, lip colors and powders, you should never rely on them solely. Maybe if you’re going out for a few minutes, they’re going to work fine. But for longer durations especially if you work outdoors or have a beach party to attend, you need more sun protection that these products cannot offer.

This is because they usually don’t come with higher SPFs and even if they do, you don’t slather them on to your skin the way you put on your sunscreen. That’s why dermatologists in the Southlake, TX area advise to use a sunscreen in addition to other products that provide sun protection. Also, you should always put your sunscreen first, let it sink in and then apply makeup.

6.  You Think You Don’t Need a Sunscreen because You’re Darker

It’s true that darker complexions are less prone to sun damage but your skin color alone is not enough to protect you from the risk of developing melanomas or other skin cancers. This is especially important for people who are frequently exposed to the sun.

According to dermatologists in the Southlake, TX area, the recommendation of regularly using a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 and reapplying it every 2 hours is for everyone regardless of the skin tone.

Sunscreen is the most important factor in providing maximum sun protection to your skin and preventing the development of a number of skin problems, especially skin cancers.

If you’re facing any skin issues and want to consult the best dermatologists in the Southlake, TX area, get in touch with Compassion Dermatology today. We have a highly skilled team of dermatology professionals who are up to date with all skincare procedures and services.