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Uncommon but Essential: Skin Cancer Prevention Tips You Haven’t Heard Before 

Uncommon but Essential: Skin Cancer Prevention Tips You Haven’t Heard Before 

May 19, 2025
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When it comes to skin cancer prevention, you’ve likely heard the basics: wear sunscreen daily, avoid tanning beds, and seek shade during peak sun hours. While those are crucial habits, there are lesser-known strategies that can further reduce your risk—and we’re here to share them. 

1. Don’t Skip Sunscreen on Cloudy Days 

Up to 80% of UV rays can penetrate clouds. Even on overcast days, your skin is exposed to harmful radiation. Make sunscreen a year-round habit, not just a summertime one. 

2. Protect Your Eyes and Lips 

Skin cancer can appear on your eyelids and lips—two areas people often forget. Use broad-spectrum lip balms with SPF and wear UV-protective sunglasses to shield the delicate skin around your eyes. 

3. Upgrade Your Laundry Routine 

Believe it or not, some laundry detergents and fabric additives can enhance your clothing’s UV protection. Look for laundry products with UV-absorbing compounds that help turn regular clothes into a stronger sun barrier. While helpful, it’s not a replacement for sunscreen, hats, or UPF-rated clothing. It should be part of a layered sun protection strategy. 

4. Check Your Car Windows 

While windshields block most UVB rays, side and rear windows often do not. Over time, frequent driving can lead to more sun exposure on your left side. Consider adding UV-protective film to your car windows. 

5. Eat Your Sunscreen? (Sort of!) 

Certain foods rich in antioxidants—like tomatoes, carrots, leafy greens, and green tea—may help your skin defend itself against UV damage. While they don’t replace SPF, a diet high in skin-friendly nutrients can add another layer of protection. 

6. Use Tech to Your Advantage 

There are apps and wearable devices that track UV levels and remind you to reapply sunscreen. These tools can help you stay consistent with your sun protection throughout the day. 

7. Don’t Forget Your Scalp 

Your part line and scalp are highly vulnerable to sun damage. If you have thinning hair or a shaved head, apply sunscreen or wear a wide-brimmed hat. Spray-on sunscreens are a great option for this area. 

8. Get Regular Skin Checks 

One of the most effective ways to catch skin cancer early—or even prevent it—is with routine full-body skin exams. See your dermatologist annually, or more frequently if you have a history of skin cancer or significant sun exposure. 
 

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States—but it’s also one of the most preventable. By going beyond the basics and incorporating these unique prevention strategies into your daily routine, you’re taking powerful steps to protect your skin for life. 

Need a skin check? Book an appointment with our dermatology team today. Early detection saves lives. 

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Men, It’s Time to Prioritize Your Skin: Essential Dermatology Tips for Men’s Health Month 

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Watch Your Shadow: A Simple Trick to Stay Sun-Safe 

May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month—a time to remind ourselves that small habits can make a…

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More Than Sunscreen: Smart Habits for Full-Body Sun Protection

More Than Sunscreen: Smart Habits for Full-Body Sun Protection

May 2, 2025
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When we think of sun protection, sunscreen is often the first thing that comes to mind—and for good reason. But while sunscreen is an essential part of preventing skin cancer, it’s just one piece of the puzzle. For truly comprehensive protection, especially during Skin Cancer Awareness Month, it’s time to think beyond the bottle. 

Here are simple but powerful habits you can adopt to safeguard your skin from head to toe: 

1. Top It Off with a Hat 

Your scalp is one of the most sun-exposed—and often forgotten—areas of the body. Wearing a wide-brimmed hat not only shades your face but also protects your scalp, ears, and neck. Choose tightly woven fabrics or hats with built-in UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) for the best defense. 

2. Shield Your Eyes with Sunglasses 

The delicate skin around your eyes is highly vulnerable to UV damage. Sunglasses with 100% UVA and UVB protection can help prevent sun-related eye conditions like cataracts and protect the surrounding skin from premature aging and skin cancer. 

3. Cover Up with UPF Clothing 

Clothing is one of the easiest ways to block UV rays—especially when it’s specifically designed for sun protection. Look for garments labeled with UPF, which indicates how much UV radiation the fabric blocks. A UPF of 50, for example, blocks about 98% of the sun’s rays. 

Bonus tip: Long sleeves, high collars, and full-length pants provide more coverage and are ideal for extended time outdoors. 

4. Make Shade a Habit 

Whenever possible, stay in the shade—especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when UV rays are strongest. Whether it’s under a tree, umbrella, or canopy, shade is a simple yet effective way to reduce your UV exposure. 

5. Plan Ahead for Extra Protection 

Keep protective gear handy so you’re never caught off guard. A hat in your car, sunglasses in your bag, and a lightweight long-sleeve shirt can go a long way in ensuring consistent protection. 

Protect Your Skin Year-Round 

Sunscreen is essential—but pairing it with smart, sun-safe habits gives you the best defense against skin cancer and premature aging. This Skin Cancer Awareness Month, commit to full-body protection that starts with sunscreen and goes well beyond it. 

Because your skin deserves protection from scalp to soles—every day. 

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Scalp to Soles: Skin Cancer Can Happen Anywhere 

Scalp to Soles: Skin Cancer Can Happen Anywhere 

May 2, 2025
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May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, a timely reminder that protecting your skin is a year-round commitment—starting from the top of your head to the soles of your feet. Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States, and it doesn’t discriminate—it can develop anywhere on the body, even in places you might not expect. 

Don’t Overlook the Unexpected 

Many people remember to apply sunscreen to their face and arms but forget areas like the scalp, ears, lips, neck, back of the hands, and even the tops of the feet. These often-overlooked spots are especially vulnerable to sun damage and can be frequent sites for skin cancer, including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and even melanoma. 

At our practice, we encourage a “Scalp to Soles” approach to sun protection and skin checks. Just because you can’t see the sunburn doesn’t mean the damage isn’t happening. 

Full-Coverage Protection: Tips for Preventing Skin Cancer 

Here are a few ways to better protect your entire body from harmful UV rays: 

  • Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every day, even when it’s cloudy. 
  • Reapply every two hours, or more often if you’re swimming or sweating. 
  • Wear protective clothing, including a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and UPF-rated fabrics. 
  • Don’t forget areas like your scalp (use spray sunscreen or wear a hat), ears, lips (use SPF lip balm), neck, and feet. 
  • Seek shade, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when the sun’s rays are strongest. 

Early Detection Starts with Awareness 

In addition to prevention, regular self-checks and annual full-body skin exams with a board-certified dermatologist are key to catching skin cancer early. Look for new or changing moles, unusual spots, or anything that doesn’t look quite right—and make sure your scalp and soles are part of that check. 

This Skin Cancer Awareness Month, commit to protecting yourself from the Scalp to Soles. Your skin is your body’s largest organ—treat it with the care and protection it deserves. 

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Celebrate July 4th With a New Sun-Safe Look

Celebrate July 4th With a New Sun-Safe Look

June 26, 2024
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Summertime fashions have certainly evolved over the past century. From the high collars and floor-sweeping skirts of the Gibson Girl age to the knee-grazing, shoulder-baring styles of the Flapper era, fashion has continuously transformed. We’ve seen Christian Dior’s post-war, softened “New Look,” the fluid, Disco-inspired trends of the 1970s, and more. Yet, the apparel industry has never created anything quite as fashionable and functional as today’s sun-blocking textile technologies.

Clothing is the most effective form of protection against the sun’s damaging ultraviolet (UV) rays. Driven by today’s health-conscious consumers, clothing manufacturers are increasingly focusing on new textile technologies that offer broad-spectrum sun protection. These innovative fabrics not only block harmful UV rays but also reflect infrared rays, wick sweat away from the skin, and cool the body.

Stay Safe in the Sun: Choosing the Right Summer Wardrobe

Summer activities like trips to the beach, pool, golf course, park, or favorite fishing spot often mean extended time in the sun. This is especially true during school breaks and holidays like Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Labor Day. While wind and water can create a deceptively cool sensation, remember that UV rays are always present, posing a constant risk to your health.

To better protect yourself and your family, select your summer wardrobe from brands that have earned the Skin Cancer Foundation’s Seal of Recommendation. Look for garments labeled with UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) ratings, which indicate how well a fabric filters out UV rays. The higher the UPF, the better the protection. For example, a light cotton T-shirt with a UPF of 5 allows one-fifth of the sun’s UV rays to penetrate the fabric, while a long-sleeved denim shirt with a UPF of 1,700 offers near-total protection. Aim for a UPF of 30 or higher for optimal safety.

Sun Protection on a Budget: Use What You Have

If a new summer wardrobe isn’t in your budget, you might already have protective clothing in your closet. Fabrics like polyester, nylon, wool, silk, and denim are effective at blocking UV rays. However, avoid loosely woven, bleached cottons and crepe, as these offer little to no protection from the sun.

Make Smart Fashion Choices to Protect Your Skin

Don’t let poor fashion choices put you at risk for accelerated aging and potential skin cancer. Healthy, smooth, vibrant skin is a timeless fashion statement. Opt for sun-smart styles and always apply a high SPF broad-spectrum sunblock when you go outside. 

Conclusion: Cover Up for the Best Defense Remember, covering up is the best line of defense against the sun’s harmful rays. By making informed choices about your summer wardrobe and skin care, you can enjoy the sun safely and stylishly.

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Additional Skin Cancer Treatments

Additional Skin Cancer Treatments

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Depending on the severity and the type of skin cancer you have, we will recommend one or more of a wide range of treatment options. We may also use these treatments if you have Actinic Keratosis. Actinic keratoses (AKs), are precancerous lesions that typically develop on fair-skinned individuals in areas exposed to sunlight.They are characterized by rough, scaly patches that may resemble stubborn scabs that resist shedding and can even bleed when irritated. Roughly 10% to 30% of these lesions can evolve into malignancies if left untreated.

Preventing actinic keratosis and skin cancer hinges on effective sun protection strategies, such as using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher daily, wearing a wide-brimmed hat to protect vulnerable areas like the ears, and wearing long sleeves or UPF-rated clothing.

Excision (Malignancies on bodily areas)

Mohs micrographic surgery is a highly specialized treatment used for skin cancers found on the head, neck, or cosmetically sensitive areas. However, the mainstay of treatment for most skin cancers is surgical excision.The cancerous tumor is excised with some of the surrounding healthy tissue and is then submitted to our laboratory for an evaluation of margins. Excision has a high cure rate and can reduce the risk of the cancer recurring.

Electrodessication & Curettage (Superficial skin cancers)

This treatment provides great results and is less invasive than many other skin cancer procedures. A curette is employed to scrape away the cancerous tissue until healthy tissue is revealed. Next, an electric current is applied to the area, effectively destroying any remaining cancer cells and controlling bleeding through cauterization of the wound. The residual effect from electrodessication and curettage is typically a hypopigmented or light-colored scar usually around the size of a quarter depending on the size of the initial skin cancer.

Prescription Medication (Superficial BCCs or AKs)

Chemotherapy for the skin works to destroy mutated cells present in actinic keratoses or superficial basal cell carcinoma (BCC) cancers. Based on your symptoms, needs, and budget, we will work with you to find the best prescription medication for you. Two of the most common prescription medicines we use are Imiquimod and 5-Fluorouracil. Imiquimod works by stimulating the body’s immune response to target and eradicate abnormal skin cells. 5-Fluorouracil interferes with cancer cells’ ability to replicate DNA, ultimately leading to their death and the regression of skin cancer lesions. Both of these creams are used for about two to three weeks at a time. Common side effects include redness, irritation and sometimes blistering. These side effects can be calmed down with the use of a low-potency topical steroid.

Cryotherapy (AKs)

Cryotherapy involves the application of extreme cold, typically using liquid nitrogen, to freeze and destroy abnormal cells in the skin affected by actinic keratosis. During the procedure, the liquid nitrogen is sprayed directly onto the lesions, causing them to blister and eventually slough off as the treated skin heals.

Chemical Peels (AKs, Sun damage)

Moderate chemical peels, such as the Vitalize Peel or Perfect Peel, can be utilized to exfoliate away actinic keratoses. These work by burning off the damaged cells to improve the quality and health of the skin. We will work with you to find the best chemical peel based on your needs, symptoms, and budget.

Laser Treatment

Laser skin resurfacing is another treatment for moderate-to-severe actinic keratosis. The top layer of skin (epidermis) is ablated or removed. Heat from the laser penetrates into the second layer of skin (dermis) to stimulate an intense collagen reaction. The combination of ablating the epidermis and stimulating deep collagen production removes actinic keratoses and results in healthy, rejuvenated skin.

Superficial Radiation Therapy (SRT)

Superficial Radiation Therapy (SRT) is a non-invasive treatment option that delivers low-energy radiation directly to the skin’s surface, targeting cancerous cells while preserving surrounding healthy tissue. Patients receive short, 30-second treatments once or twice a week over several weeks.

 Photodynamic Therapy

Ameluz is a topical gel used to treat actinic keratosis (AK) and sun-damaged areas on the face and scalp. The gel is applied to lesions and allowed to absorb for a period of time. Next, a special deep-penetrating red light is used to activate the medication. Most patients will see their lesions disappear over the next several weeks.

 

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Summer Sun-Safe Tips ☀️

It’s time to dig out your swimsuit and shelve your sweaters: Summer is official here! We hope you have all sorts of fun plans for the season, like visiting the beach, strolling through a state fair, or taking a hike in nature. We have just one piece of advice: Make sure that you’re taking care of your skin as you enjoy the summer sun. Below are a few everyday tips for lowering your risk of sunburn and skin cancer.
👒 Wear a hat: A hat with a brim will keep sunlight from hitting your face directly, helping you to avoid UV damage. The wider the brim, the better!
👕 Cover up when you can: If you can comfortably wear long sleeves or long pants, the fabric will help to keep your skin from burning in the sun.
☂️ Pack a parasol: When you’re walking through an area without much shade cover, bring your own shade! If you want to be extra careful, choose a parasol with a UPF value. UPF stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor—like SPF, but for fabric. Parasols (and clothes) with a UPF value are proven to screen out harmful UV rays.
👧 Slather on sunscreen: Sometimes, you can’t avoid the sun hitting your skin. You might not always want to avoid it! Just cover any exposed skin in sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. If you need to stock up, you’re in luck: We’re selling some of our favorite, dermatologist-recommended sunscreen brands at shop.westderm.com.
However you choose to protect your skin, we hope it helps you enjoy the season. If you have any concerns, or if you want a personalized plan for your skin health, just make an appointment with us. Happy summer!

Integrating Skin Cancer Protection into Your Routine

Integrating Skin Cancer Protection into Your Routine

March 23, 2023
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Most of us wouldn’t forget to put on clothes before leaving the house. (Hopefully!)

In addition to being stylish and preserving our modesty, clothing acts as an environmental protectant against a variety of elements, including the sun. However, while we’re pretty vigilant about at least putting on pants and a shirt before leaving the house (at least in winter!), not all of us reliably apply sun protection to the areas of our bodies that remain uncovered.

Skin cancer is the most prevalent type of cancer in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The American Cancer Society reports that approximately 5.4 million cases of basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma are diagnosed every year. Between 78,000 and 100,000 cases of melanoma are diagnosed yearly.

Sun protection can be the difference between clear, healthy skin and premature aging, dark spots, and a skin cancer diagnosis. If you forget to apply sunscreen in the mornings, here are a few tips that can help make it an automatic part of your daily routine.

Keep a bottle of sunscreen in the shower.

Sounds crazy, right? But how often do you remember to apply sunscreen to your ears and scalp?

Have a bottle of sunscreen in your shower caddy to remind you to put sunscreen on any exposed body parts that you don’t typically think about during the day. After your shower, blot yourself dry with a towel, then massage an even layer of sunscreen over the parts of your body that aren’t covered by clothes. These areas might include the following:

  • Ears
  • Scalp
  • Back of your neck
  • Forearms
  • Legs and feet

While you might not require extra sun protection on your upper or lower body during winter, this is still a good routine to follow in the summer months when more skin is exposed to the elements. Apply sunscreen generously to towel-dried skin and allow it to absorb as you complete the rest of your morning ritual.

Make sure your clothing is UPF-rated.

One of the most effective guards against sun damage is clothing with an ultraviolet protection factor (UPF). While you might think your regular clothes offer a sufficient shield against the sun’s burning rays, many seemingly heavy garments aren’t woven tightly enough to filter out ultraviolet energy. Clothing with a UPF label is specifically designed to protect the skin from the sun while still being breathable.

Carry lip protection with SPF.

During the winter, a good lip balm is essential to keeping your lips moist, comfortable, and healthy. A good SPF lip balm also protects against lip damage that causes cancer.

Skin cancer of the lips is the most common form of oral cancer. Although the sunscreen you apply to your face should also include your lips, sunscreen wears off of the mouth area because we eat and drink throughout the day. Always reapply your lip balm after eating, drinking, or whenever your lips feel a little dry. Make sure to have a container of your favorite lip balm in your car, your desk at work, your purse, or your pocket at all times. (You can even buy keychains designed to hold your lip balm!)

Find a good sunscreen multitasker.

Even if you are fairly vigilant about skincare, sometimes it’s hard to know whether your sun protection is working towards your other skincare goals. The right sunscreen will offer more than just sun protection – there should be additional skin-nourishing ingredients, too. Here are a few products that support overall healthy and beautiful skin, regardless of skin type.

Skin Pigment Protection: IPL Bundle Pigment Correcting Serum & Sunscreen offers powerful sun protection and a healthy dose of pigment-correcting ingredients that target dark spots and other skin discoloration.

Antioxidant Support: WestDerm Water Resistant Liquid Mineral SPF 50+ (Sheer Mineral Sunscreen) is a great tool for boosting your skin’s natural restorative response. Full of green tea polyphenols, this sunscreen facilitates cell regeneration and has been shown to act as a guard against damaging cell inflammation.

Oil Control: For those with oily skin, sunscreen can feel like an added layer of pore-clogging, dulling grease. Not so with WestDerm Mattifying Mineral Tinted SPF 30 (Tinted Physical Sunscreen)! This lightweight product is an excellent option for people with overactive oil glands, featuring effective oil control and a multi-shade tint that lets you streamline your skincare routine while still retaining a fresh, smooth, and even glow.

Sensitive Skin Support: EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 is an excellent option for managing conditions like rosacea and acne. This gentle formula is fragrance-free and lightweight, helping to soothe and protect inflammation-prone, sensitive skin.

Having periodic skin checks is also essential to keeping your skin healthy and protected. To schedule an appointment with a board-certified dermatologist, please visit our information page to find a clinic near you.

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5 Healthy Skin Habits to Kick-Start the New Year

5 Healthy Skin Habits to Kick-Start the New Year

December 27, 2022
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Here are five new habits that will help you achieve healthy, beautiful skin in 2023! 

Make the most of this new year by adopting a few changes that will help improve and preserve the health of your skin. Here’s a list of lifestyle enhancements you can implement every week in January. 

Week 1: Get Moving and Boost Circulation 

Did you know that when you exercise, you’re also invigorating your skin? That’s right – your heart, lungs, and complexion all benefit from daily cardio.

Exercise helps nourish and maintain skin cells by increasing blood flow. Blood delivers oxygen and nutrient compounds to functioning cells in all parts of the body, and also helps to flush toxins and waste from active cells. You can almost think of exercise as an internal cleansing routine! 

However, if you exercise outdoors, you must take care to shield your skin from the sun’s UV rays, which can cause significant long-term damage. Before heading out for a morning jog, always use an effective, water-resistant sunscreen. One of our favorites is WestDerm Water-Resistant Mineral Sunscreen, an SPF 50 formula that delivers breathable, long-lasting protection that is gentle enough for sensitive and acne-prone skin. 

To maximize your sun protection, wear exercise clothes with as much coverage as practicable. Look for long-sleeved shirts and pants with a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) of at least 50. 

Week 2: Healthy Food for a Healthy Glow 

Give yourself an extra week to enjoy the last of the New Year’s treats before taking a look at how your diet impacts your skin’s health and vibrancy. While your favorite holiday foods might be comforting and delicious, they might not be the best choice for your skin health. 

The foods you eat influence how your body functions and looks; nutrient-dense foods affect your skin’s elasticity and clarity. However, processed foods with little nutritional value also affect your skin’s elasticity and clarity — for the worse. Years of poor nutrition can compromise the skin’s ability to heal, leaving it sallow, dry, and prone to inflammation. A diet deficient in zinc, vitamins E, C, and D, and omega-3 fatty acids can make you more susceptible to acne, keratosis pilaris, and eczema flare-ups. 

The right nutrients can help your skin overcome oxidative stress and enhance its elasticity. Adopting a healthy diet with plenty of vitamin-rich and colorful fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help slow the aging process and neutralize the free radicals that cause serious skin damage. Additionally, your diet can help minimize breakouts of chronic conditions like psoriasis. 

Week 3: Improve Sleep Hygiene 

Would it surprise you to find out that one of the most effortless ways to get clearer, healthier skin is to lie down and get some shut eye? 

Even when we’re sleeping, our bodies continue to work repairing our cells, flushing toxins, and promoting cognitive function. If you’ve ever felt sore, sluggish, and foggy after missing a night of sleep, it’s because your body was unable to perform its work — leaving you worse for wear. Over time, lack of proper sleep can cause significant health consequences, accelerate aging, and diminish your skin’s radiance. 

Maintaining a consistent sleep routine is crucial to the health of your skin. Make sure you achieve at least seven hours of restful sleep per night and do your best to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day — even on weekends and vacations. Be sure to wind down at the end of the day and avoid screen time right before bed; staring at smartphones, computers, and TV screens can interfere with the brain’s ability to unwind, making it difficult to fall asleep. 

Week 4: Make Time to De-Stress 

Chronic, unmanaged stress can cause significant damage to your appearance as well as to your overall health. Emotional stress can inhibit the repair of the epidermal barrier, which facilitates moisture retention and offers protection from bacteria and other potentially harmful pathogens. Moreover, increased levels of cortisol — the stress hormone — have been linked to thinning skin, inflammation, and accelerated aging. 

Stress management strategies can significantly reduce stress-related cellular damage. Some of the most effective stress reduction techniques include: 

  • Mindful meditation 
  • Exercise 
  • Deep breathing 
  • Yoga 

Week 5: Make an Appointment with a Qualified Dermatologist 

Make regular visits to your dermatologist one of your New Year’s healthy habits! While you can adopt numerous lifestyle changes that will help preserve your healthy, youthful skin, having a medical professional evaluate your skin once a year can also help keep you and your skin healthy. At an annual visit our physicians and providers can recommend specific, individualized skin treatments that will directly address your unique issues and detect skin cancers and other conditions before they worsen.

To schedule an appointment with our board-certified team of dermatologists and skin care experts, please visit our information page to find a location nearest you today. 

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The Skinny on Thinning Skin: The Causes and Treatments for Skin Volume Loss

The Skinny on Thinning Skin: The Causes and Treatments for Skin Volume Loss

September 29, 2022
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Is thin skin a normal part of aging? Can you prevent thin skin? Can thin skin be made thicker? Yes, yes, and yes! Here’s what you need to know about how to keep your skin plump and healthy in your 30s, 40s, 50s, and beyond. 

Don’t take this the wrong way, but you might be a little thin-skinned.

No, we don’t mean you don’t know how to take criticism – we mean that your skin is literally getting thinner every day.

Not only is thin skin a cosmetic concern for many people, but it’s also a significant medical concern. Skin is our first line of defense against pathogens, toxins, ultraviolet rays, and extreme temperatures. When it becomes thinner and more fragile, it loses some of its ability to protect the body from environmental stressors. It also becomes less sensitive to different sensations, making us less receptive to touch.

Thin skin is extremely delicate and prone to injury. It is very common for older adults with thin skin to cut, bruise, and scrape themselves after an impact that they don’t even feel. This can raise the risk of infection and subsequent health challenges. 

Fortunately, it is possible to slow the thinning process. While skin that is already thin cannot be restored to its teenage glory, you can adopt lifestyle habits that enhance collagen production, increase skin volume, and preserve skin health. There are also extremely effective topical products and dermatological treatments that can help accelerate skin cell turnover, strengthening and rebuilding your skin’s outer layers. 

What Causes Thin Skin?

Normal, healthy skin loses roughly 30,000 dead skin cells every minute. (Fun but gross fact: Roughly 50% of the dust in your home is actually human skin!) Every year, we lose nearly 10 pounds of dead skin cells. 

When we’re young, we regenerate skin cells quickly. Skin regeneration is a natural exfoliation process known as desquamation (skin peeling). New skin cells are generated within the epidermal layer called the stratum germinativum, and by the time they travel up to the top layer – the stratum corneum – they have reached the end of their life cycle, and they are sloughed away. This complex biochemical process reveals the newer, fresher, and healthier skin cells underneath. 

Unfortunately, the aging process slows skin regeneration significantly. Moreover, a lifetime of not-so-great habits – drinking alcohol, tanning, smoking cigarettes, and eating junk food – can reduce the skin’s propensity for regeneration even further. 

The skin regeneration process occurs approximately every 28 days in young adults. After the age of 40, the turnover cycle starts to slow, sometimes dramatically. After the age of 50, skin cell turnover can take as long as three months. Hormonal fluctuations and changes can also affect skin thickness; thinning skin and elasticity loss tends to accelerate after menopause. 

How Can I Prevent Thin Skin? 

If you haven’t yet noticed signs of thin skin, you can nip the aging process in the bud. Start by immediately eliminating all activities and lifestyle habits that can compromise dermal health and adopting practices that preserve and enhance your skin’s youthful volume. 

Avoid:

  • Tanning 
  • Alcohol consumption 
  • Smoking 
  • Recreational drug use 

Embrace: 

  • Wearing sun protection daily 
  • Staying hydrated 
  • Exercise 
  • A heart-healthy diet with lots of colorful fruits and vegetables 
  • Moisturizers 
  • Gentle skin cleansing 

Your skincare routine can also have a dramatic effect on your skin’s ability to repair itself. Schedule an appointment with a dermatologist to discuss the best skin-preserving products and techniques for your skin type. 

Are There Treatments for Thin Skin?

If you already have delicate, paper-thin skin, you are probably not going to restore the volume and elasticity you had in your 20s. However, you can strengthen your skin and enhance its brightness and clarity by improving your overall health and being vigilant about skincare. 

If your skin is becoming delicate and susceptible to injury, here are a few things you can do to keep it protected and strengthen it over time. 

  • Improve your circulation. Maintaining optimal blood circulation is essential to preserving the health and elasticity of your skin. If your skin is becoming dull and dry, make sure your heart and circulatory system are functioning properly. Have a medical evaluation to check for any issues that could be inhibiting optimal blood flow to your skin and organs. If you are medically cleared to exercise daily, make sure you work up a sweat! 
  • Protect your skin from the sun. Not only should you wear sunscreen on your face and neck, but you should also make sure your clothing offers sun protection, too. Check your clothing labels for a UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) rating, which tells you what percentage of UV rays can penetrate the fabric to your skin. 
  • Keep moisturized, lubricated, and hydrated. Moisturized skin is more supple and less susceptible to tears and breaks. Keeping your skin hydrated and protecting your moisture barrier can keep it from succumbing to further environmental damage and facilitate your skin’s ability to repair itself. The right moisturizers will both introduce hydrating ingredients into your skin while preventing moisture loss with an occlusive ingredient. 
  • Eat your protein. According to a 2018 study published in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, reduced protein consumption is associated with greater skin fragility in older people. 
  • Ask your doctor about hormone replacement therapy. Postmenopausal women are particularly vulnerable to thinning skin. Estrogen replacement has been clinically shown to enhance skin thickness. 

There are also numerous cosmetic products and treatments that can significantly improve skin texture and volume. 

What Topical Products Treat Thinning Skin? 

Alpha-Hydroxy Acid (AHA) 

There has been a long-standing internet rumor that products with AHA cause skin to become thinner. Actually, the opposite is true! 

Skin products containing AHA have demonstrated significant efficacy in combatting thinning skin. A study published in 1996 found that the application of a lotion containing a 25% concentration of glycolic acid for six months led to a 25% increase in skin thickness in the study group. 

Retinols 

Retinols accelerate skin cell regeneration. The topical application of retinol was found to facilitate significant skin repair when applied to photo-aged skin, increasing dermal thickness, enhancing elasticity, and reducing lines and wrinkles. 

What Cosmetic Procedures Treat Thinning Skin? 

Microneedling

Microneedling is a minimally invasive in-office procedure that delivers controlled micro-injuries to the skin that initiate a wound healing cascade. This process causes the connective tissues to activate growth factors within the epidermis, stimulating a dramatic increase in collagen and elastin production and skin cell activity. 

Laser Skin Resurfacing 

Laser skin resurfacing enhances collagen production by directing beams of intense energy deep into the epidermis, accelerating the growth of collagen fibers, and increasing skin volume and firmness.

The best treatment for your skin will depend upon your unique skin type, your lifestyle, and the degree of skin thinning. If you have concerns about thinning skin, please don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment for a full consultation about your treatment options at a location near you. 

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Autumn Leaves Can’t Shield You from the Sun Fall Sun Care Tips

Autumn Leaves Can’t Shield You from the Sun Fall Sun Care Tips

September 14, 2022
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As summer draws to an end, we might be tempted to stop slathering on sunscreen as aggressively as we did only a month ago. But while the temperatures aren’t as high as they were during the dog days of summer, the UVA and UVB rays are every bit as potent – and as dangerous. 

Sun damage can cause a wide variety of cosmetic and medical issues in any season. Not only does sun exposure accelerate aging and lead to sunspots, but it also raises your risk of carcinomas and dangerous melanomas. Here are a few tips for integrating sun protection into your fall routine. 

Use Thicker Sunscreen 

It seems counterintuitive, but you might need more – not less – sun protection during the fall and winter. 

The humidity decreases as the weather cools down, leaving skin drier and more vulnerable to sun damage. Your light, oil-free summer sunscreen might not offer the same level of protection during cooler months. Boosting the hydration in your sun care products helps protect the skin barrier and keep your skin moisturized longer in the dryer climate. A great product is our own WestDerm Antioxidant Moisturizing Sunscreen with hyaluronic acid. 

Don’t Forget to Protect Your Lips 

Even if you wear sunscreen religiously, it’s easy to forget that our lips need sun protection, too. Every year, roughly 40,000 lip cancer cases are diagnosed, making up about .6% of all cancer diagnoses in the U.S. 

Make sure you apply a lip balm with sun protection after you apply your sunscreen, and make sure you carry lip balm with you throughout your day so you can reapply it after you eat or drink. If you want to plump up your pout, WestDerm Plumping Lip Treatment with SPF 30 is an excellent option, offering hydrating ceramides that encourage moisture retention while protecting the skin barrier from environmental aggravators. 

Incorporate UPF Clothing into Your Wardrobe 

When the weather is hot, wearing long sleeves and long pants outdoors is just flat-out uncomfortable. But the lack of UV-absorbing clothing means you must repeatedly apply sunscreen on your exposed limbs. Sun protective clothing, labeled as UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor), is a convenient sun shield that you don’t have to reapply – you just put it on and forget it. 

When selecting your sun protective clothing, make sure the fabric is tightly knit and can either effectively absorb UV rays or reflect them. Natural cotton materials are effective absorbers of UV rays, while shiny polyester materials can reflect UV rays away from the skin. 

It’s also important to find clothing that fits somewhat loosely, because tight clothing might stretch the fibers and lower the effectiveness. If you want to take the guesswork out of choosing sun-protective clothing, look for a tag that gives you the UPF rating. 

The UPF rating of your clothing matters. A UPF 50 rating indicates that the fabric shields you from approximately 98 percent of ultraviolet rays. But what’s the difference between UPF and the SPF on sunscreen? 

UPF Vs. SPF 

UPF differs from the SPF (Sun Protection Factor) rating on liquid sunscreens because SPF measures the amount of solar energy the product can effectively block before the skin begins to burn. For example, if you tend to burn after spending 15 minutes in direct noon sunlight, a sunscreen of SPF of 30 indicates that you can multiply that time by a factor of 30 before your skin starts to react. 

However, it is critically important to note that solar energy changes throughout the day, and the amount of solar energy differs in different environments. So, noontime sun at sea level with slight cloud cover will expose you to less solar energy intensity than noontime sun at a high altitude with no cloud cover. 

Also, be on the lookout for broad-spectrum sunscreen. Unless your sunscreen is labeled “broad spectrum,” it will only offer protection against UVB rays, not UVA rays. While UVB rays cause sunburn and skin cancer, UVA rays can cause sun damage and premature aging. 

If you want to make sure your skin stays healthy year-round, make sure to have your skin checked regularly by an experienced dermatologist. Please visit our information page to find a clinic near you.

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Arizona Dermatology

About Us
Health Library
Patient Referrals
Patient Resources

Services

Medical Dermatology
Cosmetic Dermatology
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© 2024 Arizona Dermatology. All Rights Reserved. | Sitemap | Privacy Policy | Notice of Privacy Practices | Terms of Service