Many people enjoy basking in the sun and spending extra hours outside, especially in the summertime. Unfortunately, too much time spent soaking up the sun’s rays can be damaging to our skin, as evidenced by a dull, wrinkled complexion that makes us appear older than we really are.

Premature skin damage and wrinkling from sun exposure is known as photoaging. Unlike natural aging, photoaging causes dry, leathery, discolored skin; deep wrinkles; and sunspots.  Talk to your dermatologist for easy ways to minimize sun damage and restore your youthful appearance. There are many ways Dermatology Associates of South Mississippican help you soften and remove those unwanted wrinkles brought on by sun exposure.

Here are a few tips for improving sun damaged skin:

Moisturize. Because the sun is very drying, it is important that you rehydrate your damaged skin by applying moisturizer daily. This is an easy way to restore the moisture lost from over-exposure to the sun and improve dull, leathery looking skin.

Chemical Peels. Chemical peel applications are effective for removing fine lines, minimizing sun damage and smoothing out the skin. This procedure removes the damaged upper surface of the skin to expose newer, brighter skin.

Mircodermabrasion. This nonsurgical procedure involves exfoliating the top layer of aging skin to stimulate new skin growth. This procedure works best on mild to moderate skin damage and may require multiple treatments. Following treatment, fine lines appear softened, wrinkles are shallowed and the skin is rejuvenated, smooth and younger looking.

Laser skin resurfacing. This laser treatment uses high-energy light to remove a thin layer of damaged skin.  As the skin is dissolved, it also minimizes wrinkles, sunspots and scars. New, blemish-free skin grows back smoother and tighter, which results in a younger looking you.

Prevention. Remember, prevention is key to addressing sunspots, wrinkles and other types of sun damage. Be smart when you’re outdoors, and limit the amount of exposure you get to the sun. Prior to stepping outside, always apply sunscreen, wear hats and sunglasses, and seek shade when possible.

The good news is that with proper prevention and a treatment plan to repair signs of sun damage, you can restore your youthful glow.  Talk to Dermatology Associates of South Mississippi,and find out if you are a candidate for any of these cosmetic procedures.

Skin care should be an important part of your daily hygiene.   This should include cleansing the face daily, moisturizing, applying sunscreen and avoiding harsh products. A good skin care routine starts with understanding the unique needs of your skin type.  In many cases, skin can be classified into four different categories: normal, dry, oily and combination. 

To determine your type of skin, try this simple test:

• Wash your face and gently pat it dry.
• Wait approximately 15 minutes, and then press lens-cleaning tissue paper on different areas of your face.
• If the paper sticks or picks up oil on all parts of your skin, then you have oily skin.
• If the paper does not stick on any part of your face, then you have dry skin.
• If the paper only sticks to your chin, nose and forehead, then you have normal or combination skin.

Normal Skin Types

The ideal skin type, normal skin is characterized by a smooth, even tone and usually blemish free.  It also tolerates most skin care lotions and creams. A regular skin care regimen combined with a balanced diet is often enough to maintain healthy, youthful skin.

Dry Skin Types

People with dry skin lack natural moisture.  Dry skin may flake during the winter months, and chapping or cracking may occur when skin is extremely dry or dehydrated. Applying gentle moisturizer throughout the day and drinking plenty of water can help relieve dryness and also fight against premature aging. Avoid overexposure to the sun, harsh winds and smoking, which can aggravate dry skin.

Oily Skin Types

If you have oily skin, you may be more prone to acne due to excessive oil secretions (sebum) on the face.  Oily skin may appear greasy, and is commonly seen among adolescents due to hormonal changes, which increase production of sebum.  To manage oily skin, use cosmetics sparingly and only apply oil-free products when possible. Wash skin once or twice a day, avoid lotions and creams, and always remove makeup before going to bed.

Combination Skin Types

Combination skin is a blend of both dry and oily skin, most often characterized by an oily T-zone (forehead, nose and chin) and a dry neck and cheeks.  Different parts of the face may require slightly different care.  Applying a toner or anti-acne product on the T-zone to remove residual oils and impurities may be helpful in managing oily skin, while a mild moisturizer may be needed for the cheeks.

Having trouble determining your skin type?  Visit Dermatology Associates of South Mississippi for expert skin care advice and a personalized treatment plan for every type of skin. The state of our skin is affected by nutrition, general and emotional health, exercise and genes. How well you care for your skin will play an important role in achieving your healthy glow.

Too much exposure to sunlight can be very harmful for your skin.  Dangerous ultraviolet B (UVB) and ultraviolet A (UVA) rays damage skin, which leads to premature wrinkles, skin cancer and other skin problems. People with excessive exposure to UV radiation are at greater risk for skin cancer than those who take careful precautions to protect their skin from the sun.

Sun Exposure Linked to Cancer

Sun exposure is the most preventable risk factor for all skin cancers, including melanoma. To limit your amount of exposure to UV rays, follow these easy steps.

• Avoid mid-day sun, as the sun’s rays are most intense during 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Remember that clouds do not block UV rays.
• Use extra caution near water, snow and sand.
• Avoid tanning beds and sun lamps which emit UVA and UVB rays.
• Wear hats and protective clothing when possible to minimize your body’s exposure to the sun.
• Generously apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 30 to all exposed skin.  Re-apply every two hours and after swimming or sweating.
• Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes and area around your eyes.

Risks Factors

Everyone’s skin can be affected by UV rays. People with fair skin run a higher risk of sunburns.  Aside from skin tone, factors that may increase your risk for sun damage and skin cancer include:

• Previously treated for cancer
• Family history of skin cancer
• Several moles
• Freckles
• Typically burn before tanning
• Blond, red or light brown hair

If you detect unusual moles, spots or changes in your skin, or if your skin easily bleeds, make an appointment with Dermatology Associates of South Mississippi. Changes in skin may be a sign of skin cancer. With early detection from an experienced dermatologist, skin cancers have a high cure rate and response to treatment. Additionally, if you want to reduce signs of aged skin, seek the advice of our Biloxidermatologists for a variety of skin-rejuvenating treatment options.

Welcome to the Blog of Dermatology Associates of South MS, PLLC

Whether you are an existing patient or searching for a dermatologist in the Biloxi area, we're excited you are here. With the industry advancing, we recognize the importance of keeping our patients and visitors up to date with all of the new and exciting things taking place in our practice.

As we move forward with our blog, we hope to promote awareness as a vital part of your healthy lifestyle. Here you will find a variety of articles and topics including news, advancements in technology and treatment, practical health advice and updates from Dr. John H. Phillips, III M.D. and his staff.

We hope you find our blog to be helpful, engaging and informational to ensure your best health.

As always, feel free to contact us with any dental questions or concerns.