WestDerm

What if one of the biggest secrets to better skin was as simple as resting? There is a profound connection between sleep and our skin.

National Sleep Awareness Week, recognized by the National Sleep Foundation from March 10-16, serves as a reminder of the pivotal role that sleep plays in our overall well-being, including skin health. Research supports the concept of beauty rest with studies linking lack of sleep to skin inflammation and aging.

The Healing Power of Sleep

Sleep plays a pivotal role in the healing and rejuvenation of our skin. During the night, while we’re in the deep stages of sleep, our body undergoes a myriad of repair processes, including skin cell regeneration. Lack of sleep disrupts this crucial repair cycle, leading to dull and lackluster complexion.

Sleep deprivation is intricately linked to stress. The stress hormone cortisol can wreak havoc on our skin, leading to inflammation, breakouts, and premature aging. We can effectively manage stress levels and safeguard our skin’s health and vitality by getting regular quality sleep.

The Impact of Sleep Disorders on Skin Health

Sleep disorders such as sleep apnea not only leave us feeling fatigued but can also take a toll on our skin. Research suggests that interruptions in breathing during sleep can compromise the immune system. Untreated sleep apnea has been linked to more aggressive melanomas. In addition, sleep disturbances have been linked to exacerbating chronic inflammatory skin conditions like atopic dermatitis and psoriasis. Ensuring adequate and uninterrupted sleep is important in managing these skin conditions.

Circadian Rhythm and Skin Health

Our body’s internal clock, also known as the circadian rhythm, governs various physiological processes, including skin repair and renewal. Disruption of this rhythm can have adverse effects on our skin. Studies indicate that UV damage continues to harm the skin even in darkness, emphasizing the importance of the body’s nighttime repair.

The Social Impact of Sleep Deprivation

Beyond its physiological effects, sleep deprivation can also impact our social perception. Research suggests that individuals who are sleep-deprived are perceived as less attractive and less healthy. This highlights the social importance of prioritizing sleep not only for our own well-being but also for our interactions with others.

Practical Tips for Healthy Skin Through Sleep:

• Aim for 7-9 hours of restorative sleep each night. 
• Create a calming bedtime routine to signal to your body that it’s time to wind down.
• Invest in a comfortable mattress and pillows to ensure optimal sleep quality.
• Limit exposure to screens and stimulating activities before bedtime to promote relaxation.
• Consider seeking treatment for any underlying sleep disorders to safeguard both your skin and overall health.
• See a dermatologist if you have concerns about your skin health.

Sleep is not just a luxury but a vital component of our skincare regimen. By prioritizing adequate sleep, we can unlock the secret to beautiful, healthy skin from within. So, tonight, let’s bid farewell to sleepless nights and embrace the transformative power of a good night’s sleep for radiant and glowing skin.

Sources:

National Institutes of Health

• Does poor sleep quality affect skin aging?
• Cancer and Sleep Apnea: Cutaneous Melanoma as a Case Study
• Negative effects of restricted sleep on facial appearance and social appeal

Journal of the Academy of American Dermatology Sleep impairment in patients with chronic inflammatory skin diseases: A review of mechanisms and management

As we journey through life, our skin evolves, reflecting the passage of time and our experience. Just as our needs change with age, so should our skincare routines. Whether you’re in your 20s or 60s, there are treatments to keep your skin looking its best.

In Your 20s: Focus on Prevention and Glow

In your 20s, it’s all about laying a solid foundation for radiant skin while preemptively tackling the signs of aging. Opt for treatments like:

• HydraFacial: This multi-step procedure deeply cleanses, exfoliates, and hydrates the skin, leaving you with a luminous complexion.
• Chemical Peels: Mild peels can refine skin texture and combat early signs of sun damage, ensuring a smoother and more radiant skin tone.
• Microdermabrasion: By buffing away dead skin cells and stimulating collagen production, microdermabrasion promotes a youthful glow.
• Light Therapy: LED treatments target acne, boost collagen production, and enhance overall radiance.
• Medical-Grade Facials: Customized facials tailored to your skin concerns maintain skin health while addressing issues like acne or hyperpigmentation.

In Your 30s: Embrace Early Aging Gracefully

As you enter your 30s, your focus shifts towards addressing early signs of aging and maintaining a youthful appearance. Consider treatments such as:

• Neuromodulators: Anti-wrinkle injections like Botox can prevent dynamic wrinkles from deepening, preserving a youthful visage.
• Dermal Fillers: These helps restore lost volume and minimize fine lines, rejuvenating facial contours.
• Chemical Peels: Medium-depth peels combat sun damage and uneven skin tone, revealing smoother and more radiant skin.
• Laser Skin Resurfacing: Fractional lasers target pigmentation and fine lines, promoting a youthful complexion.
• Microneedling with Growth Factors: Stimulate collagen production and minimize fine lines for a radiant and rejuvenated look.

In Your 40s and Beyond: Nurture Ageless Beauty

As you gracefully enter your 40s and beyond, skincare becomes more targeted towards addressing aging concerns and promoting skin health. Explore treatments like:

• Fractional Laser Therapy: Address age spots and fine lines while stimulating collagen production for a radiant complexion.
• Radiofrequency Skin Tightening: Firm and tighten sagging skin, restoring a youthful appearance.
• Ultherapy: Lift and tighten skin non-surgically, rejuvenating the face, neck, and décolletage.
• Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy: Stimulate collagen and improve skin texture for a radiant complexion.
• Medical-Grade Chemical Peels: Combat sun damage and fine lines, revealing smoother, more radiant skin.
• Dermal Fillers and Neurotoxin Injections: Restore facial volume and minimize wrinkles, revitalizing your appearance.

In every decade, skincare is a journey of self-care and self-love. By incorporating treatments and nurturing your skin at every stage, you can unlock timeless radiance and embrace the beauty of each passing year.

Consult with your dermatologist or skincare professional to develop a customized skincare regimen and treatment plan to address specific concerns and maintain healthy skin. Remember, your skin tells a story—let it reflect a tale of vitality, resilience, and everlasting glow.

Please note:  Treatments available may vary by practice, location and provider.

If you’re wondering whether you really need to wear sunscreen during the darker and colder winter months, you’re not alone. According to a recent study published by the National Institutes of Health an only an estimated 13.5% of Americans regularly wear sunscreen daily.¹ However, the sun produces harmful UV rays all year round – even on cloudy days and during cold winter months. Although the sun’s rays may not feel as strong on your skin during the colder weather, its ultraviolet (UV) rays continue to harm your skin and cause damage and premature aging.

Increased Risk of Skin Cancer

By not wearing sunscreen in the winter, you increase your risk of skin cancer. UV rays are harmful during this time of year because the ozone layer is at its thinnest. Additionally, snow and ice can reflect up to 80% of these rays², making it especially important to keep your skin protected. Some studies have shown some cloudy conditions amplify harmful UV radiation when the sun’s rays are reflected in the cloud.

Choosing the Right Sunscreen for Winter

Irrespective of skin tone, it’s important to utilize a broad-spectrum sunscreen safeguarding against UVA and UVB rays, with a minimum SPF 30 protection, effectively blocking 97 percent of sun rays.

Considerations for Winter Activities

If you’re doing a lot of activity in the winter, you may need sunscreen that’s water and sweat-resistant. And if you’re at higher altitudes, such as a ski resort, look for SPF 50 or higher for the best protection against reflected rays from snow and ice.

Regular Application is Key

Regardless of your activity level and whether it’s sunny or cloudy, it’s a good idea to apply sunscreen to your exposed skin on a daily or more frequent basis. Even small amounts of sun exposure add up and can cause premature aging and increase your risk of skin cancer.

Tips for Winter Protection

• Apply sunscreen to all exposed skin and exposed reflected UV rays, including lips and ears.

• Put on sunscreen for at least 20 minutes before heading outside.

• Reapply sunscreen at least every two hours and more frequently if you’re sweating.

If you have concerns or questions regarding skin changes, do not hesitate to make an appointment with one of our dermatologists. Your proactive approach to skin health can make a significant difference in preventing and detecting skin cancer.

Sources:

1. Sunscreen use amongst US adults: A National Survey, NIH PubMed
2. A Guide to the UV Index: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

February marks National Cancer Prevention Month, emphasizing the importance of raising awareness about skin cancer, the most common form of cancer in the United States. It is estimated that 1 in 5 Americans will be diagnosed with skin cancer by the age of 70, and more than two people succumb to this disease every hour in the U.S.

To mitigate the risks associated with skin cancer, particularly melanoma, which has a 99 percent 5-year survival rate when detected early, it’s crucial to adopt preventive measures and prioritize early detection. Here are some valuable tips and resources to aid in the early identification of potential skin cancer signs.

Perform a Self-Exam for Skin Cancer

The American Academy of Dermatology recommends a comprehensive self-examination to check for signs of skin cancer. Follow these steps:

• Utilize a full-length mirror to examine the front and back of your body, including both sides with raised arms.
• Pay attention to the palms, forearms, underarms, soles of the feet, between the toes, and legs.
• Employ a hand mirror to scrutinize the neck and scalp.
• Use a hand mirror for a thorough examination of the back and buttocks.

Know Your ABCDE for Skin Cancer

Remember the ABCDEs of skin cancer to identify potential warning signs:

• A is for Asymmetry: One half of the spot is unlike the other half.
• B is for Border: The spot has an irregular, scalloped, or poorly defined border.
• C is for Color: The spot exhibits varying colors from one area to the next, such as shades of tan, brown, or black, or areas of white, red, or blue.
• D is for Diameter: While melanomas are typically larger than 6 millimeters, they can be smaller when diagnosed.
• E is for Evolving: If the mole has changed over the past few weeks or months, it warrants attention.

Get Regular Skin Cancer Screenings

As an integral part of an early detection strategy, it is recommended to schedule an annual visit with one of our dermatologists. For those at a higher risk of skin cancer, more frequent screenings may be necessary. A professional, full-body skin examination by one of our dermatologists can play a vital role in identifying potential issues early on.

If you notice a spot that differs from others or undergoes changes in appearance, itching, or bleeding, don’t hesitate to make an appointment with one of our dermatologists. Your proactive approach to skin health can make a significant difference in preventing and detecting skin cancer.

In February, it’s easy to get caught up in the allure of Valentine’s Day. Amidst the sea of heart-shaped chocolates and roses, why not redirect that love towards yourself? Whether you have exciting plans for a night out, a cozy evening in, or quality time with your friends, or a loved one, make this Valentine’s Day all about pampering yourself with some much-needed tender loving care (TLC).

Treating your skin at home:

1. Double Cleanse: Show your skin some love with a double cleanse. Start with a gentle cleanser to remove the day’s impurities, followed by a non-foaming gel cleanser to leave your skin feeling fresh and hydrated.

2. Exfoliate: After a thorough cleanse, treat your skin to an exfoliating duo for a soft, smooth finish. Mix a glycolic acid gel with a natural scrub to reduce pigmentation, improve texture, and leave your skin feeling softer, smoother, and more supple.

3. Treat: Once your skin is prepped, treat it to a dose of vitamins. Choose a glowing serum with vitamin C, antioxidants, and peptides for a radiant appearance, or opt for a repairing serum with retinol and niacinamide if you’re staying in.

4. Hydrate: Seal in all that love and attention with a moisturizer to keep your skin looking smooth, supple, and soft. Your skin will be the perfect canvas for your Valentine’s Day night.

Treat yourself with treatments:

• Glowing Facial: Indulge in a nourishing facial treatment for instant radiance. A rich face mask, complete with hyaluronic acid, antioxidants, peptides, stem cells, and omegas, paired with a facial massage, can promote better circulation and leave your skin glowing.
• Expert Exfoliation: As winter winds down, give your skin a revitalizing boost with exfoliating treatments. Glycolic acid peels or mechanical exfoliation methods like microdermabrasion can reveal smoother, brighter skin with diminished fine lines.
• Pout Perfection with Fillers: Plump up your lips for a kissable Valentine’s Day with hyaluronic acid fillers. Whether you desire fuller lips or wish to address fine lines, consult a cosmetic dermatology expert for the right formula, amount, and placement.
• Wrinkle Smoothing with Botox: Smooth away wrinkles with Botox or other cosmetic neurotoxins. Relax facial muscles to achieve a youthful, smooth appearance for two to six months. Schedule your appointment now to look serene and radiant on Valentine’s Day.

This Valentine’s Day, make it a celebration of self-love and radiant skin. Whether you’re spending it solo or with loved ones, our experts can help you care for your skin. Schedule an appointment today.

As we step into a new year, it’s the perfect time to prioritize self-care and embrace a radiant skin transformation. Achieving healthy and glowing skin doesn’t have to be complicated; it’s about adopting a few key skincare resolutions. Here are 5 simple yet impactful skin resolutions that can make a noticeable difference in your complexion.

Embrace the Double Cleanse: The foundation of a solid skincare routine is clean and clear skin. One resolution you can easily incorporate is the double cleanse method, especially at night. This ensures the removal of SPF, makeup, dirt, and pollution that can age your skin.

Prioritize Gentle Exfoliation: Exfoliation is a game-changer when it comes to achieving a radiant complexion. However, moderation is key; overdoing it can lead to irritation and sensitivity. Choose a gentle exfoliator to remove dull, dead, and dehydrated skin cells.

Stay Hydrated Inside Out: Hydration is crucial for healthy and plump skin. Make it a point to drink an adequate amount of water daily to keep your skin hydrated from the inside. Additionally, consider incorporating a hydrating serum or moisturizer into your skincare routine. Well-hydrated skin not only looks better but also helps to keep elasticity and resilience.

Use Sunscreen, Every Single Day: Sunscreen is your best defense against premature aging and skin damage. Make a commitment to apply sunscreen every day, even on cloudy days or when you’re indoors. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to shield your skin from harmful UV rays. This small yet powerful step can significantly contribute to the long-term health and youthful appearance of your skin.

Adopt a Consistent Skincare Routine: Consistency is key when it comes to skincare. Establish a daily routine that works for you, incorporating the necessary steps such as cleansing, toning, moisturizing, and applying treatments. Be patient and give your skincare products time to show results. With a consistent routine, you’ll be more likely to keep healthy and radiant skin throughout the year.

This year, make a commitment to prioritize your skin’s health. By incorporating these five simple resolutions into your skincare routine, you’ll be on the path to achieving a radiant and vibrant complexion.

If you need help with developing a routine for good skin health, please don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation with one of our dermatologists near you.

Remember, skincare is a journey, not a destination. Cheers to a year of healthy, glowing skin!

As the winter season arrives, many of us experience the less enchanting side effects: dry, flaky, and irritated skin. The harsh winter weather, combined with indoor heating, can wreak havoc on your skin’s moisture balance. Fear not, though, for there is a solution that goes beyond the typical drugstore remedies. In this guide, we’ll explore how medical-grade skincare products and visits to the dermatologist can be your allies in the battle against dry winter skin. 

Understanding the Winter Skin Challenge: Winter weather tends to strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dehydration and uncomfortable tightness. This is exacerbated by hot showers and central heating, which further contribute to moisture loss. To combat this, it’s crucial to adopt a skincare routine tailored to the specific needs of your winter skin. 

Medical-Grade Skincare Products: 

• Gentle Cleansers: Swap out harsh cleansers for mild, hydrating options. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin to lock in moisture. 
• Rich Moisturizers: Invest in a medical-grade moisturizer with ingredients such as ceramides, fatty acids, and squalene. These help repair the skin barrier and prevent moisture loss. 
• Serums and Treatments: Incorporate hydrating serums with ingredients like niacinamide or vitamin C. These not only boost hydration but also provide additional benefits such as brightening and evening-out skin tone. 
• Exfoliants: Include a medical-grade exfoliant to remove dead skin cells and allow better absorption of moisturizing products. Opt for chemical exfoliants like alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta hydroxy acids (BHAs). 

The Dermatologist’s Touch: 

• Professional Evaluation: Schedule a visit to a dermatologist for a thorough skin analysis. They can identify specific concerns and recommend a personalized skincare regimen. 
• Prescription Strength Products: Dermatologists have access to prescription-grade skincare products that are more potent than over-the-counter options. These may include stronger retinoids or targeted treatments for dry skin. 
• In-Office Treatments: Dermatologists can perform treatments like hydrating facials, chemical peels, or microdermabrasion to rejuvenate and hydrate the skin. 
• Advice on Lifestyle Changes: Dermatologists can provide guidance on lifestyle adjustments, such as dietary changes and hydration habits, to complement your skincare routine. 

Building Your Winter Skincare Routine: 

Morning Routine: 

• Gentle cleanser 
• Hydrating serum 
• Moisturizer 
• Broad-spectrum SPF

Evening Routine: 

• Hydrating cleanser 
• Exfoliant (2-3 times a week) 
• Treatment serum 

Monthly Dermatologist Visits: 

• Professional skin analysis 
• Adjustment of skincare routine as needed 
• In-office treatments if recommended 

Don’t let dry winter skin dampen your spirits. By incorporating medical-grade skincare products and consulting with a dermatologist, you can transform your winter skincare routine into a powerful defense against the elements. Embrace the expertise of skin care professionals, and you’ll be on your way to radiant and resilient skin all winter long.