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Back-2-School Skin Tips for the Busy Bee

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There is a major trend in self-care right now. Our Instagram feeds are crawling with images of yoga poses, bubble baths, and hammock selfies with good reason – we are all in need of a little relaxation these days. 

So, what are busy parents to do?  

A constant on-the-go lifestyle can leave you physically drained and can also take a toll on your skin. Now that the school year is starting again, you might have more time to focus on your physical and emotional wellness, which can work wonders for your body and spirit. 

If you’re feeling a bit strained after spending the summer running around with the kids, here are a few simple strategies to help you unwind and get your skin back into tip-top shape. 

Get some sleep. 

Sure – easier said than done, right? But sleep is the most important element in any de-stress routine. If you struggle to fall asleep, cut off your screen time (TV, laptop, tablet, phone) at least two hours before bed. LED lights can trigger a neurological response that makes drowsiness difficult. 

Here are a few more quick tips for falling into a restful sleep: 

  • Cut back on the afternoon coffee. Avoid stimulating foods or drinks containing sugars, nicotine, alcohol, or caffeine at least two hours before bedtime. 
  • Lower the temperature. A cool – not cold – bedroom is critical for achieving optimal sleep. Try to keep the temperature between 60° and 65°. 
  • Dim the lights. Ambient lights from electronic devices and digital clocks can make falling asleep difficult. Maintain a dark room, if possible. Sleep masks are highly effective if reducing light sources isn’t practical. 
  • Create a regular bedtime routine. A consistent end-of-day routine can help you fall asleep faster and achieve deeper sleep. Taking a warm bath or shower one or two hours before bedtime has been shown to significantly improve sleep quality.  

Including a regular bedtime skincare routine can both help you unwind and improve the texture and luminosity of your skin. The act of pampering yourself is inherently relaxing, helping you fall asleep faster and achieve deeper, more restorative sleep. Additionally, your skin is better able to absorb the active ingredients in your skincare products during sleep than it is during waking hours.

Our skin’s permeability is enhanced at night during sleep. One of the best tools for rebuilding and preserving collagen while protecting barrier function is a product rich in hyaluronic acid, green and white tea polyphenols, and pentapeptide-4. WestDerm Ceramide Dermal Repair Cream offers a blend of these valuable compounds and an intense boost of antioxidants which can neutralize the free radicals that accelerate aging. 

Get a move on! 

That’s right, the key to relaxation is exercise! While that might sound counterintuitive when you only want to crash on the sofa and binge-watch Stranger Things, working out helps your body wind down, improves your mood, and facilitates deeper, more restful sleep. 

Before you head out for a run or to the gym, cleanse your face of dirt and makeup with one of our favorites, EltaMD Foaming Facial Cleanser. Exercise can cause pores to open, making it easier for makeup to get inside. You should also apply a healthy amount of sunscreen to any part of the body that isn’t clothed when you’re outdoors. 

Additionally, it’s important to gently cleanse your skin after your workout to remove sweat and bacteria. (However, you should consult your dermatologist if you have sensitive skin so that you don’t trigger any inflammation from too-aggressive cleansing.) Follow up with your normal daytime or nighttime skin routine for your skin type.  

Get hydrated. 

Did you know that dehydration might contribute to mood fluctuations? 

Hydration and relaxation are deeply interconnected. While drinking 6-8 glasses of water per day won’t automatically cure stress and anxiety, dehydration has been shown to increase cortisol (stress hormone) production. Several studies have found evidence that improper hydration can impair the body’s ability to self-regulate its biological systems and might increase the risk of anxiety and depression.  

Self-care should involve proper hydration. It is critical for cellular repair and healing, and could help you regulate your mood. Ensure you are always hydrated by sipping water throughout the day. Especially if you’re a busy parent always on-the-go, this is an easy tip that can make a big difference in not only your skin, but your energy levels. 

Your skin needs to be hydrated, too. WestDerm Peptide & HA Hydrating Serum offers a healthy boost of antioxidant power and humectant moisture, helping skin to stay plump and hydrated all day. 

Get a facial! 

Of course, giving yourself a periodic home facial is great for your skin and your mood, but let’s face it – there’s nothing like the real thing! If you CAN carve out some time in that busy schedule, indulge in a little self-care and schedule a facial. 

A professional facial can yield dramatic results for numerous common skin issues that require management or correction. In our clinics, our team of qualified dermatologists and aestheticians can custom design a series of services that will address your unique concerns. Not only will you feel fabulous, but your skin will also be brighter, clearer, and more radiant. 

Now that summer is coming to a close, and kids may be back in school, it’s time to shift the focus back on you. If you have any concerns, or simply want to get your skin checked out, schedule an appointment with us today. 

The High Cost of Free Radicals

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August is the unofficial Free Radical Damage Month when the majority of free radical skin injuries occur. Several skin care treatments and products can help protect your skin from the ravages of free radicals. Here’s what you should know about the compounds that wreak havoc on your complexion and leave you susceptible to significant medical concerns.

It’s summertime, and the livin’ isn’t easy on your skin. With temperatures throughout the United States skyrocketing to unprecedented highs, ultraviolet (UV) exposure is an ever-present threat to the health and comfort of your complexion. While sunscreen is critically important and can offer significant protection, the sun isn’t the only element that causes long-term problems. 

You only need to spend an afternoon in an urban area to fully appreciate the extent of the pollution we absorb simply by breathing while outdoors. While you can cleanse away much of the external grit and grime, environmental pollutants are insidious, and they can’t be showered away. These pollutants can be absorbed into your cells and trigger a chemical response that can have a negative effect on your health and appearance. 

But what about free radicals? What does pollution have to do with free radicals?

Pollution and sun exposure are two of the major contributors to free radical damage. Other conditions that contribute to free radical damage include: 

  • Smoking 
  • Alcohol consumption 
  • Ionizing radiation (exposure to X-rays or other radioactive elements) 
  • Poor nutrition 
  • Physical and psychological stress/trauma 

The presence of free radicals is found everywhere, like pollutants, but their effects are not immediately apparent. Nevertheless, the harm resulting from them can be quite serious. 

What are free radicals? 

Free radicals are unstable oxygen-containing molecules or atoms. They are unstable because they contain an uneven number of electrons, leaving something called an unpaired electron. This unpaired electron causes a reactive response in the atom or molecule, causing it to seek other molecules or atoms with unpaired electrons. 

When molecules seek other molecules with unpaired electrons, it causes a series of chemical reactions, a process known as oxidation. The presence of molecules called antioxidants helps manage the chemical response because antioxidant molecules can spare an electron without destabilizing. 

When the number of free radicals and antioxidants is balanced, the oxidation reaction doesn’t yield negative health effects. In fact – free radicals are necessary to ward off infection. When there are too few antioxidant molecules to balance the free radicals, however, oxidative stress occurs. 

Oxidative stress can cause changes to your DNA, which can lead to inflammatory diseases, diabetes, hypertension, and even cancer. It is also a major factor in premature aging. 

What is free radical skin damage? 

Free radical skin damage has numerous presentations. Dark spots, wrinkles, skin laxity, and fine lines are all common examples of free radical skin damage.  

How do we protect ourselves from free radical damage? 

We are exposed to free radicals from our environment, but we also create free radicals through normal cellular metabolic processes. Needless to say, it’s impossible to avoid free radicals entirely (and we shouldn’t, even if we could). However, we can balance them by consuming antioxidants. 

Foods rich in antioxidants are among our greatest allies in the fight against free radical supremacy. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), the foods with the highest concentration of antioxidants include: 

  • Dark, leafy green vegetables 
  • Apples 
  • Black Beans 
  • Kidney Beans 
  • Plums 
  • Blackberries 
  • Strawberries 
  • Avocado 
  • Green tea 

An antioxidant-rich diet can help reduce your risk of oxidative stress from exposure to environmental free radicals. However, you can absorb antioxidants topically, too. 

Do antioxidant skin products help prevent free radical damage? 

Antioxidant-rich skin care products can help you fight oxidative stress and free radical damage in your skin. Here are some of the most effective products for combatting environmental stressors. 

West Derm Gentle Antioxidant Soothing Cleanser 

Your skincare routine starts with a cleanser. West Derm’s Gentle Antioxidant Soothing Cleanser gently lifts makeup, dead cells, and impurities from your skin while delivering the antioxidant benefits of green tea polyphenols, Vitamin C, and other botanicals. 

SkinCeuticals Antioxidant Lip Repair 

Don’t neglect your pout! SkinCeuticals’ Antioxidant Lip Repair offers a boost of hydration from natural humectants and free radical-neutralizing Vitamin E and Silymarin. 

West Derm IPL Bundle Botanical Serum + Antioxidant Sunscreen 

The final stages of your skincare routine should include an antioxidant serum combined with an effective sunscreen. West Derm IPL Bundle Botanical Serum and Antioxidant Sunscreen combines a great boost of antioxidant support with the highest level of UV protection. 

The best weapon against free radical damage is regular visits to a qualified dermatologist. Keep your skin healthy with an annual skin check with us. Find an office today! 

The Key Factors that Cause Psoriasis

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Psoriasis is a multifactorial, auto-immune disease. The exact reasons behind psoriasis are still unclear.

The condition has a strong genetic background. Research suggests that an interaction between genetics and the immune system is one of the primary reasons behind the condition. Some common triggers can worsen the symptoms of psoriasis. The impact of these triggers varies from one person to another. 

The Link Between Psoriasis and Genetics

Having a family member with psoriasis enhances your level of risk for the condition. However, people with no family history of psoriasis can still be diagnosed with the disorder. Research conducted on psoriatic skin shows the presence of gene mutations (called alleles). 

However, the presence of alleles alone cannot cause a person to develop the condition. Genetic studies have identified 25 gene variants that can increase the risk of psoriasis. The studies indicate a person’s risk level in developing psoriasis. 

  • If one parent has psoriasis, then there is a 10% chance for the child to have the condition. 
  • If both parents have psoriasis, the risk is over 50%. 
  • If you have a relative with psoriasis, then the chances of being diagnosed with the condition are over 30%. 

The specific method through which psoriasis passes from the parent to the child is not entirely understood. 

The Interplay between Genetics and the Immune System

When the immune system encounters a foreign body such as a virus or bacteria, the T cells respond. The body builds proteins that are involved in the identification of molecules called antigens. 

When a person has psoriasis, the gene mutations cause the T cells to identify their skin cells as foreign and attack them incorrectly. The body makes new cells more often than required. The additional skin cells pile up on the surface of the skin and thus cause psoriasis. 

Other Contributing Factors of Psoriasis

The National Psoriasis Foundation (NPF) has revealed that at least 10% of people inherit genes that can cause psoriasis. But only 3% of people develop the condition. When external triggers combine with genetics, the chance of developing psoriasis is high. Some of the external factors are, 

Stress

The connection between stress and psoriasis is like a loop. Psoriasis causes stress. Stress causes inflammation and increased activation of the immune cells. This results in a psoriasis flare-up. 

Skin Injury

Bruises, bumps, and other forms of injuries can irritate your skin and set off the immune system. As a result, the injured portion of the skin becomes the site of a psoriasis flare-up. 

Weather

The National Psoriasis Foundation suggests that cold and dry weather can trigger psoriasis. Some studies support the intake of Vitamin D supplements to regulate the immune system during winters. 

Drugs

Certain drugs like antimalarials, aspirin, beta-blockers can aggravate psoriasis.

Gut Health

When the bacterial ecosystem in your gut is dysregulated, “leakiness” in the gut can be observed. This triggers inflammation through the entire body and causes the development of psoriasis. 

Infections

Infections such as COVID 19 can trigger psoriasis through systemic inflammation. The most common infectious trigger of psoriasis is strep throat. 

Lifestyle Habits

Smoking is said to flare up psoriasis by over 60%. The nicotinic receptors in the T cells of the immune system regulate cell activity. The nicotine present in cigarettes can interfere with the functions of the receptors. 

Get Help with Treating Psoriasis 

Appropriate treatment measures can control the symptoms of psoriasis.

At WestDerm, we are profoundly aware of the physical and psychological impact of psoriasis. We offer customized treatment plans to relieve patients from their discomfort and to get clearer skin. Contact us today if you notice any signs of the condition. 

The Root of Hair Thinning & Hair Loss

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Do you know the medical term for a hair doctor? If you said ‘dermatologist,’ you’re right! Most people don’t realize that dermatologists are trained beyond skincare and can also help with conditions like hair loss. It may sound strange, but it’s true—a dermatologist is a skin, nail, and hair doctor. Our board-certified dermatologists can diagnose the cause of your hair loss. They can also prescribe the products you need to improve your hair’s follicle growth cycle for better hair. 

How Much Hair Loss is Normal

You have more than 100,000 hairs on your head. They constantly cycle between growing and falling out. Losing between 50-100 hairs each day is part of the normal hair growth cycle. If more than this falls out, your hair is thinning, and it’s time to see your dermatologist. 

Signs of Thinning Hair in —Women 

One of the first things a woman will notice when her hair’s thinning is that her part line seems wider than usual. Women might also see more scalp and less hair than before around the hairline that frames their face. This happens when follicles die. This means her scalp produces fewer hairs per square inch than usual. If this is happening, you need a dermatologist’s help to avoid further hair loss. 

Men Should Look For These Signs

The beginning of typical male-patterned baldness is a sure sign of hair loss. This starts above the temples and circles around the head, leaving only a strip of hair along the bottom. Men might also notice a receding hairline. Both of these signal disruption of the normal hair follicle cycle. 

Causes of Hair Loss

The most common cause of hair loss is the aging process. It’s natural for some follicles to stop producing hair. But hormonal changes experienced in pregnancy and menopause can cause your hair to thin while you’re relatively young. In addition, some people’s hair falls out prematurely because of a medical condition they have or medication they’re taking. Whatever the cause, if your hair loss is distressing to you, there are products your dermatologist can recommend to improve the situation. 

Products For Fuller Hair

The solution to thinning hair is medical-grade products. Our West Dermatology Skincare Shop offers quality brands like Nutrafol. Some of these work from the inside, others work from the outside. Both are effective: the best one for you is the one your dermatologist prescribes for your specific hair-loss condition. 

Hair Growth Serum

You can apply topical products directly to your scalp for ingredients that keep your hair follicle life cycle growing normally. Our dermatologists recommend Nutrafol Hair Growth Serum. This leave-in product contains a blend of antioxidants and minerals to support hair growth. You can massage it into your scalp twice a day.

Products That Work Internally

We also carry products at West Dermatology that help support your hair growth from the inside out. These supplements come in capsule form and are taken orally. They include the following quality products from Nutrafol:

Schedule An Appointment 

Hair loss doesn’t have to be an inevitable part of growing older, pregnancy, menopause, or illness. Our board-certified dermatologists can help you find the products you need to keep the fullest head of hair possible, despite your specific challenges. Reach out to one of our practices today and get on the path to better hair health. 

The Facts About Alopecia Areata

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What is alopecia areata?

Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disorder that affects approximately 145 million people around the world. The condition causes the body’s immune system to attack the hair follicles, leading to patchy hair loss on the scalp and occasionally the eyebrows and lower body. The condition is characterized by discrete hair loss patches that often range from a half-inch to two inches in diameter.

Alopecia areata typically affects the hair follicles. In some cases, however, it can also lead to changes in the nails, causing indentations, discoloration, and sometimes nail loss.

How did I get alopecia areata?

A genetic element is involved in alopecia areata; it is believed to be an inherited condition. However, it is also associated with – and exacerbated by – certain medical disorders, so it’s important to have a thorough medical checkup if you experience patchy hair loss anywhere on your body.

Fortunately, most people affected by alopecia areata are otherwise perfectly healthy, though the conditions that activate and de-activate alopecia-related hair loss are not yet fully understood. People with alopecia areata might experience an outbreak that corresponds with high stress, depression, or anxiety.

Can alopecia areata go away without treatment?

Alopecia areata affects everyone differently. Some people experience a bald patch or two in their youth, after which their hair grows back, and they never have another outbreak. Sometimes the hair regrows more sparsely. Some patients have full regrowth after an outbreak, but experience another bout of hair loss months or years later. In rare cases, however, the hair loss progresses to complete baldness. The differences in severity between patients are not understood, and outbreaks are difficult – sometimes impossible – to predict.

Can alopecia areata be cured?

There is no cure for any autoimmune disorder, but highly effective treatments are available. One treatment that has recently been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration is a type of Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor that disrupts the immune system’s response to hair follicles. To date, the drug has been approved for the treatment of severe alopecia areata.

Additional treatments include the administration of corticosteroids in topical, injectable, or oral tablet form. Corticosteroids act as anti-inflammatory agents that block the immune system’s attack on hair follicles in people with mild symptoms. Many patients also achieve success with Minoxidil.

If you are experiencing unexplained, patchy hair loss, please don’t hesitate to contact the experts at an office near you to schedule a consultation.

The Dermatologist-Approved Guide to Summer Skin

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Summertime means beaches, barbecues, and baseball, but it also means skin-wrecking salt water, sand, and (if you aren’t careful) sunburn. These can cause serious stress to a healthy complexion, but c’mon – who wants to stay inside?

The warm summer months require unique skin care strategies. All the swimming, cycling, hiking, and other outdoorsy enjoyments are great for our overall health and wellbeing, but these activities can lead to significant ultraviolet (UV) overexposure to the face and body, not to mention skin dehydration and free radical damage. Over time, these environmental stressors can lead to accelerated aging, irregular pigmentation, and even certain cancers.

It can be difficult to determine which skin care solutions will yield consistently great results. However, starting with the methods used by experienced dermatologists is a great first step! Here are tried-and-true techniques our WestDerm dermatologists not only recommend to their patients, but also use to protect their own skin.

Check the Ultraviolet Radiation Index Daily

While standard weather forecasts will help ready you for blazing temperatures, your local weather team won’t reliably alert you to the UV radiation index (UVI). The UVI measures the degree of UV radi- ation on a given day, which is unrelated to the temperature.

Knowing the UV radiation levels in your area can help you apply the optimal level of sun protection for your outdoor activities. J. Ryan Jackson, D.O., recommends checking the UVI daily using an easy-to-access smartphone application. “I appreciate the UV index found on my weather app,” says Dr. Jackson. “This index assists me to make informed decisions about how much time I should spend in the sun and what types of sun protection I should include with my daily activities.”

Wear Sunscreen Religiously

Great summer skin starts with an effective sunblock. Mitchel Goldman M.D., WestDerm Medical Di- rector, is an avid cyclist who takes sun protection very seriously. “The single most important thing is sunscreen, in the summer and the winter,” he says. “We should all be using [sunscreen] every day, whether it’s in our morning moisturizers or foundations.”
While sunscreen is instrumental for minimizing sun damage and age spots, it significantly reduces skin cancer risk. Even if we’re careful to apply sunscreen when we know we will spend the day out- doors, we might not be as vigilant in the car. “We don’t realize we have to wear sunscreen when we’re driving,” Dr. Goldman says. “Your back window and side windows only block 2% of the ultraviolet rays, so the sun comes right in, even with the windows closed.” The left side of the face, the left arm, and the left hand are especially vulnerable.

Wear Clothing with SPF

Although sunscreen must be reapplied periodically throughout the day, a more convenient alterna- tive for the body is sun protective clothing. “In addition to applying sunscreen, I wear sun protective clothing,” Dr. Goldman says.

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.

Combat Sun Damage

Skin rejuvenation is critical; boosting cell turnover can help dramatically mitigate superficial sun-re- lated damage. Dr. Jackson is an advocate for using products that facilitate this phenomenon. “To reduce the severity of actinic damage I often recommend topical retinoids to the face three times weekly at night, increasing to nightly as tolerated,” he says. A great starter retinol product is West Derm Retinol Serum 3X, a gentle, antioxidant-rich serum that penetrates deep into the skin without causing irritation.
Summer activities can also cause significant dehydration due to heavy sweating and even exposure to super-drying ocean water. Topical products that enhance environmental protection and boost hy- dration are excellent for minimizing and even reversing mild sun damage. “After exercising I always apply SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic to my facial skin to further decrease ultraviolet damage,” Dr. Goldman says. This vitamin C serum is a free radical-neutralizing formula that shields the skin from oxidative stress.

Get Plenty of Antioxidants

Healthy skin can also be achieved from the inside out. Antioxidants in deep green vegetables (spin- ach, kale, collard greens, and broccoli), beets, carrots, sweet potatoes, and dark chocolate are fan- tastic for ensuring optimal cell health. They combat oxidative stress, boost collagen production, and reduce your risk of developing serious health conditions like heart disease and even cancer.
However, if your lifestyle is extremely active, you might want an antioxidant boost. “I and my cycling teammates take SunIsdin, a natural supplement that provides antioxidants to protect the skin from ultraviolet damage,” says Dr. Goldman. This daily supplement helps protect skin from photoaging (premature aging caused by continual exposure to UV radiation) and enhances elasticity, making skin less susceptible to dynamic wrinkles.

Dr. Jackson is also a big proponent of supplements and encourages his patients to enhance their anti- oxidant intake. “I often recommend Heliocare Advanced with Nicotinamide to my patients,” he says. “Heliocare Advanced with Nicotinamide helps support skin health and maintain the skin’s ability to protect against free radical damage.”
The best way to preserve the health and beauty of your skin? Regular visits to a dermatologist, of course! 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 effec- tive acne treatment, or think an Intense-Pulsed Light (IPL) Photofacial could be right for you, we are more than happy to offer a consultation.

To find a clinic near you, please visit our location page and schedule an appointment today.

4 Sunscreen Ingredients to Avoid…and Why!

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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. 

Ultraviolet Safety Awareness Month: Aren’t You Forgetting Something?

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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! 

What You Need to Repair, Rejuvenate, and Refresh Your Post-Sun Skin

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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 Getting Worse

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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!