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FAQ Friday!

Q: How often should I have my #skin checked for skin cancer by a dermatologist?

A: How often you need to get screened varies from person to person. We usually recommend that adults have their full body checked annually by a dermatologist. However, if you have any of the following risk factors your dermatologist may recommend more frequent screening:

-You have had skin cancer or atypical moles removed in the past.
-A member of your family has had skin cancer.
-You have had severe sunburns or used tanning beds.
-You have a fair complexion.

You should also perform regular checks on yourself to look for new moles, lumps and discoloration of your skin. The The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends that everyone practice monthly self examination of their skin, so that they can find any new or changing lesions that might be cancerous or precancerous. Skin cancers found and removed early are almost always curable.

If you see something worrisome on your skin, don’t wait until your scheduled appointment – see your dermatologist!

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FAQ Friday!

Q: I’m an adult, why do I still have acne?!

A: Actually, 26% of women 31-40 have acne and 12% of women over 40 have acne! Adult female acne can be very frustrating but also very treatable. Hormonal treatments with birth control pills or spironolactone can be very effective. Don’t suffer at home, see your dermatologist

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FAQ Friday!

Q: What products should definitely be in my #skincare routine?

A: Keep it simple! There are two must haves for everyone – sunscreen and Retin A.

The sunscreen should be broad spectrum, SPF 30 or higher, and contain zinc or titanium (the physical blockers). In terms of Retin A, you can get an Rx version from your #dermatologist or try an OTC first, like the deep wrinkle treatment from the Olay Pro-X line.

Have a great weekend!

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FAQ Friday!

Q: I’m going to be going away for Labor Day weekend and I am really scared about getting Lyme disease. How can I prevent getting bit by a tick?

A: Lyme disease is one of several infections that ticks can carry. The good news is that if you are vigilant about checking yourself for a tick bite and doing a few simple preventative measures you can enjoy Labor day weekend tick free!

If you are going to be on trails or in the woods avoid high grass or bushy areas as those are areas that ticks like to live. In high risk areas use bug repellents that contain 20-30% DEET on your skin or clothing, which will give you protection for several hours.

Make sure to check your entire body every 24 hours as even if you are bit by a tick carrying Lyme disease it generally takes 24 hours of contact to transmit it to you. So it’s especially important to make sure you check yourself thoroughly every day.

If you are bit by a tick don’t panic, not all ticks are carriers of Lyme disease. Follow these simple instructions below from the CDC to remove it, and save it for your health care provider to check when your back in town.

http://www.cdc.gov/lyme/removal/index.html

Use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin’s surface as possible. Pull upward with steady, even pressure. Don’t twist or jerk the tick; this can cause the mouth-parts to break off and remain in the skin. If this happens, remove the mouth-parts with tweezers. If you are unable to remove the mouth easily with clean tweezers, leave it alone and let the skin heal. After removing the tick, thoroughly clean the bite area and your hands with rubbing alcohol, an iodine scrub, or soap and water.

Have a wonderful Labor Day weekend and remember to pack your sunscreen!

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