Center for Dermatology & Plastic Surgery - Dermatologists and Plastic Surgery in Phoenix, AZ

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

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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. 

You Don’t Have to be a Ghost This Halloween! 👻

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Summer might be long gone, but your glow doesn’t have to be!

Transitioning into cloudier, cooler months can be challenging – especially for those who love a good tan! But let’s face it, that summer glow isn’t worth the risks…especially when there is such an easy alternative!

Make this fall an excuse to switch things up and substitute baking in the summer sun with self-tanning or spray-tanning. Your skin will thank you!

Not only will your self-tanner give you that bronzed look your friends will envy, but it also has lots of other benefits:

  • Get a natural-looking tan in minutes
  • Self-tanners and spray tans do not expose you to dangerous UV rays
  • Your skin won’t age as fast
  • Conceals blemishes, varicose veins and stretch marks
  • Creates a smooth and even tan
  • Can be customized to the color/tone of your choice

Self-tanners seem like a no-brainer, right? Ask your dermatologist about their recommended lotion and spray-on tanners today.

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

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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.

Understanding Your Skin Type & How To Care For It

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Knowing your skin type is the first step to caring for it. This knowledge lets you put together the skin care routine that’s best for you. So what kind of skin do you have, anyway? A dermatologist can answer that question at your annual checkup. But if you can’t wait until then, here are some guidelines that will help you make an informed guess.

Normal Skin? You’re Lucky 

Are your pores barely visible? Is your skin not too dry or too oily? Do you have almost no skin imperfections? If you answered yes to these questions, then your skin is normal—and we’re jealous. Normal skin is one of the five basic skin types and is characterized by balance. It needs regular cleansing, moisturizing, and a vitamin c serum or a retinoid. Either a chemical or a mineral sunscreen is a good choice for normal skin types. 

Do You Have Oily Skin?

Oily skin is the type where your pores are large, and your skin is shiny all over. This extends beyond the center of your face and includes your cheeks, too. Oily skin is often acne-prone and needs special care. 

· Cleanse your face morning and night. 

· The best way to moisturize oily skin is with an oil-free product. We recommend you go for a moisturizer with salicylic acid to keep acne under control. 

· A retinoid can help keep pores clear and reduce breakouts. 

· Choose a mineral sunscreen because it won’t clog your pores. 

How To Know If Your Skin Type Is Dry

You might have dry skin if your pores are almost invisible and you have more lines than other people your age. Other clues that point toward dry skin include red patches and dull, rough skin. Dry skin needs the following hydrating skin care regime: 

· Wash your face at night. In the morning, just splash it with water and gently pat it dry. 

· Reach for a moisturizer that’s oil-based and thick. 

· Add a layer of moisture on top of your retinoid at night. Consider using retinoid every other night to keep your skin from getting too irritated. 

· Use a sunscreen and moisturizer combination during the day. 

You Have Combination Skin If…

Combination skin means your skin is only shiny in your t-zone (the center of your face) and not along the sides. In this case, your pores will usually look large on your nose and forehead. But your pores will be less visible on other parts of your face. 

· Wash your face morning and night unless it becomes too dry and then you can skip washing it in the morning for a day or two until it regains its balance. 

· Consider using a thicker moisturizer on the dryer parts of your face and an oil-free product in the center of your face. 

· You’ll benefit from a retinoid at night but might need to layer moisturizer on top of the dryer parts of your face. 

· Reach for a non-comedogenic mineral sunscreen.

Is Your Skin The Sensitive Type?

Redness, itching, burning, and dryness are all signs that you might have sensitive skin. Sensitive skin needs extra gentle care, so remember to: 

· Use a mild facial cleanser and consider washing your face only at night. 

· It’s helpful to moisturize sensitive skin with a fragrance-free product. 

· Ask your dermatologist before you use retinoid. 

· Sunscreen is vital, so already-sensitive skin doesn’t become even more irritated. 

Your Skin Type Can Change

It’s important to know that your skin type doesn’t always stay the same throughout life. It can change as you age or undergo significant changes like pregnancy or menopause. It can also vary based on the season. For example, most people experience more dryness during the winter. 

Understanding your skin type is the first step to care for it. If you’re not sure what category your skin falls into, schedule an annual checkup with one of our board-certified dermatologists. They’re happy to answer all of your skin care questions.  

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5 Ways to Honor Skin Care Awareness Month

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The largest organ in our body, surprisingly, is our skin. This big surface does so much for us: it keeps germs out; it cools; it lets us feel sensations. So, how about treating our skin right this month and celebrating National Skin Care Awareness with these five ideas: 

Protect Your Skin

Old sunscreen that’s expired loses its ability to protect our skin. So, check your expiration date and if it has passed, toss the old bottle and buy yourself a new sunscreen this month. Sunscreen is the most potent product we can use to protect our skin from the sun’s damaging rays and maintain our youthful, dewy glow. 

Rub A New Moisturizer Into Your Skin

It can be light and thin or rich and creamy. Whatever your preference, the key is to hydrate your skin with something that feels nourishing to you. Go beyond moisturizing your hands and slide lotion all over your body, including your feet. We recommend you try ISDIN Uradin Lotion 10 for intense hydration. 

Give Your Skin A Laser Treatment

Whether it’s wrinkles, sun spots, acne, or unwanted hair, expect all your skin worries to fade when you book yourself in for a laser treatment. Lasers give instant gratification for anyone looking to treat their skin this month. West Dermatology offers laser hair removal and laser skin resurfacing. 

Feed Your Skin Antioxidants

Eat vegetables and fruit to neutralize free radicals with antioxidants. Harmful things like alcohol, fried foods, and inflammation bombard our skin daily from the inside. Air pollution and UV rays bombard it from the outside. Help your skin regain its balance by eating the recommended five servings of fruit and vegetables each day this month. And remember to eat all the other skin-benefiting foods, too. You can go nuts with almonds, spice it up with cinnamon, and amend your skin with avocado. You can also try this Sun ISDIN Softgel Capsules Antioxidant Supplement. 

Take Your Skin To Its Annual Exam

You’ll be surprised at just how easy it is to get your annual skin check-up. Your dermatologist will start by asking you a few simple questions about your skin. Then, they’ll gently examine it. There are about twenty square feet of skin on your body, and only one square foot of that is on your face. Although your face is the most visible part, other areas are more hidden but still essential to check, like your back. Your dermatologist will pay special attention to the spots and moles on your body. They’re looking for things like the size of moles, irregular borders, and specific colors. Expect them to ask you if you’ve noticed any changes to your moles over time. Our dermatologists can answer any other questions you have about your skin at your annual check-up. 

Our skin organ is massive at twenty square feet. All that skin needs protection and nourishment. September is the month to raise our awareness and start taking even better care of our skin. Reach out to us today to schedule an appointment or treat your skin to one of the fabulous products from our online shop.

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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 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.