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3 Must-Have Products for Protecting Sun-Kissed Skin

Know your ABC’s this Summer and get your annual skin check

Are you ready to embrace your sun-kissed skin this summer? The sun’s UV rays are damaging to the skin, so it’s important to protect the body’s largest organ before stepping out to the beach. Although sun-kissed skin gives us the appearance we desire, many don’t realize the impact it has on our skin’s health. In fact, in a study by the American Academy of Dermatology, 60 percent of men and 54 percent of women think that tan skin means healthy skin. However, when the sun darkens your pigment, it’s actually damaging healthy cells in the process. To achieve the sun-kissed look we all want, be sure to use these three must-have products to keep your skin healthy.

Sunscreen

We know you’re using sunscreen when you lie out to tan but are you using the one that’s right for your skin? One in five Americans will develop skin cancer at some point, so it’s important to choose a product that will be the healthiest and safest for you.

To make sure your skin is being protected against both UVA and UVB rays, the sunscreen you use must be broad-spectrum, water-resistant and have an SPF of at least 30. Use your product on your body as you spend time outside, even if you don’t think you’re receiving UV rays. Even on cloudy or rainy days, 40 percent of the sun’s UV rays still reach the earth’s surface.

For the best protection and natural aging, we recommend working a facial sun protectant into your morning routine. By adding this step, that takes just a few seconds, your skin will thank you down the line. It’s necessary to choose a different product for your face than the body. Facial sunscreens are formulated with antioxidants to keep your pores clear and skin moisturized, all while protecting it from harmful UV rays.

Lip Protectant

Pucker up! Use a lip protectant to keep your lips hydrated and kissable this summer. Nearly 70 percent of people who use sunscreen while at the beach will forget to apply some protection to their lips. What’s the fuss? Our lips do not have melanin or sebaceous glands in them, meaning they are more susceptible to sun damage and dehydration.

One of the easiest ways to keep our lips hydrated is by drinking water. However, without exfoliation, the skin on our lips will promote dry skin and cause them to crack. Use a lip scrub and soft toothbrush to exfoliate the dead skin cells. Follow the exfoliation with a lip balm containing an SPF of at least 30 to provide back up protection and hydration. Refrain from exfoliating too often or too forcefully because this will leave the lips red and raw.

Exfoliation

Exfoliation is a common practice at the end of winter, to shed the skin of any and all dead cells that accumulated throughout the cold season. However, it’s also important to exfoliate the skin as we start to soak up the sun in the warmer months. Exfoliation increases blood circulation, which is the main factor in achieving healthy, glowing skin.

It’s recommended to exfoliate twice a week with a body scrub that contains grainy particles, usually of sugar or salt. By exfoliating dead or dying skin cells before tanning, you’re allowing the healthiest cells to receive sun. Doing this will help your tan last longer and remain even.

The dermatologists and medical professionals at Knoxville Dermatology Group have years of experience of providing safe sun tips, recommending products and checking for signs of skin cancer.

Know your ABCDE’s and get your annual skin check

Know your ABC’s this Summer and get your annual skin check

Summer is almost in full swing! Before you start laying out this beach season, be sure get your annual skin exam. Skin checks for abnormal moles or growths are basic sun safety that should be practiced year-round. Spending time in the sun can bring out freckles and spots you didn’t even know you had. It can be hard to determine which spots are normal, or if they need to be checked out. However, it is imperative that when something odd does appear gets diagnosed and treated correctly.

The skin is the largest organ of the body, and more people are diagnosed with skin cancer than any other form. Fortunately, checking our bodies for signs of skin cancer is as easy as singing the ABC’s.

  • Asymmetry: One half is unlike the other half.
  • Border: Irregular, scalloped or poorly defined.
  • Color: Varies from one area to another. Shades of dark purple, blue or black; sometimes red or white.
  • Diameter: While skin cancer varies and grows rapidly; melanomas are usually larger than the size of a pencil eraser (6mm).
  • Elevation: If your mole is not smooth or extremely raised, it could be a cause for concern.

Skin cancer tends to cause changes, so any visible change to the mole, especially over a short period of time, maybe cause for concern. If you have a concerning spot that meets any of these conditions, don’t hesitate to see a dermatologist.

Why You Need to Avoid the Tanning Bed this Winter

It can be difficult to maintain a good tan during the sunless and cold, winter months unless you’ve taken a beach vacation or are lucky enough to live somewhere warm and sunny year-round. However, for most of us, our skin quickly loses its summer glow and pales throughout the winter. While tan skin may be a confidence booster, it doesn’t mean you should hit the tanning bed. There are many reasons to avoid dangerous sunless tanning booths and a number of safe ways to obtain a radiant tan.

Avoiding the Tanning Bed

We’ve all heard it before. There is plenty of information and awareness out there warning people of the dangers that come with tanning beds. However, the industry is still making profits and people are developing skin cancer at insane rates. Here are some of the most important and crucial reasons to avoid the bed.

  • Risk of Skin Cancer: Sunless tanning booths are a known carcinogen, meaning they are a recognized avenue to developing cancer. Tanning beds increase your risk of developing skin cancer by 59 percent. Each time you visit a bed, this percentage increases. Your risk not only increases for mild skin cancers, but also for the most deadly form of skin cancer, known as melanoma. Melanoma most commonly occurs on the skin, but ocular melanoma can appear on the eye, causing vision loss.
  • Wrinkles: All types of UV rays, or the sun’s harmful rays, cause skin damage. With tanning beds, you are given direct exposure to UVA and UVB rays, with little to no protection. UV rays are known to cause wrinkles in sunbed users of all ages. These beds weaken the skin elasticity and will cause wrinkles to come sooner rather than later.
  • Skin Texture: Not only do tanning beds cause wrinkles, but they cause a complete overhaul of your skin’s health. Your skin’s texture can change with the use of indoor tanning, causing it to have a leathery texture. In addition, tanning beds cause dark spots to appear on the face and other parts of the body, creating skin tone variation.

Tanning Bed Users

The first thing you should do if you use a tanning bed is to stop. If you visit an indoor tanning bed regularly or used to, you should also see your dermatologist regularly and performing skin checks. With such a heightened risk of skin cancer, it is important to monitor your skin so that cancer can be treated immediately. You may feel embarrassed to admit to your dermatologist that you use tanning beds. However, it is important to be honest with your doctor so they know and understand your risk factors and can offer you appropriate care.

Safe Alternatives for Sunless Tanning

  • Spray Tan: Many indoor tanning locations offer spray tan options. When people think of spray tans, they fear looking like a carrot or having an uneven tan. With today’s technology, spray tans have become much more reliable and natural. For the same cost as a tanning bed membership, you can get regular sprays and still have the bronzed skin you desire.
  • Tanning Lotion: Just like spray tans, tanning lotions have become much more reliable and look incredibly natural. There are tanning lotions available anywhere in your price range and desired skin tone. Many tanning lotions offer “buildable tans,” meaning you continue to apply for multiple days until you reach your desired tone.
  • Rock Your Natural Skin: The simplest and most cost-effective way to avoid sunless tanning is to rock your natural skin. Everyone has different skin tones. There will always be someone paler than you and someone who is tanner than you. When considering your skin, don’t spend time fretting over how tan it is and begin to care for its overall health instead.

It’s time to put your skin’s health first. Be sure to avoid tanning beds. If you have been a regular indoor tanner, be sure to make an appointment to have your skin checked and cared for today. If you have already administered a skin check and have found some things that raise alarm, it is also time to make an appointment. The dermatologists at Knoxville Dermatology Group have experience treating hundreds of skin conditions and are ready to care for you as well. To book an appointment visit the website or call at (865) 690-9467.

Another Year, Another Skin Check

The new year brings many exciting changes. It brings us one step closer to spring and also a renewed vigor for creating healthy habits. For many, New Year’s resolutions include making health a priority. You may have decided to change up your diet or start working out regularly. These are both great ways to care for your body, but have you considered doing a regular skin check? As you go through your year, you may not remember to check for issues lurking beneath the surface of your skin. Now is the time to do a skin check.

What is a Skin Check?

A skin check is a full body scan where one looks for abnormal moles, new moles or growing moles. It is important to take note of all moles, so you can be aware when one changes or new ones appear. Your skin is your largest organ, but it is exposed to all kinds of dangers, including the sun’s harmful rays. Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer, so be proactive in scanning your skin.

How Often Do I Need a Skin Check?

Ideally, you should administer a self-check once a month. The scan should take no more than ten minutes but would save you time, money and lots of stress if you do find an irregularity.

Why? If you do happen to detect skin cancer in its early form, it can be easily cured. Sadly, one person dies from melanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer, every hour. Taking just ten minutes out of your month may just save your life.

What Exactly am I Looking For?

To make it simple and easy, we’ve come up with five things you need to look for in a mole when administering your skin check. All you have to remember are your A, B, C’s.

  • Asymmetry: If you draw a line through the center of your mole and it is not the same on both sides, this may be symptomatic of skin cancer.
  • Border: Harmless moles will have a clear and natural border, whereas moles that you need to take note of will have a blurred or jagged border.
  • Color: Healthy moles are a solid brown, with no pigment changes. If your mole is multicolored, dark purple or black, it’s time to visit the dermatologist.
  • Diameter: Bigger doesn’t always mean better. If your mole is larger than the size of a pencil eraser or growing rapidly, this could be a red flag even if it raises no other warning signs.
  • Elevation: If your mole is not smooth or extremely raised, then it could be a cause for concern.

Should I be Worried?

If any moles on your body raise a red flag from any of these A, B, C’s, it is time to visit your dermatologist and get their opinion. There is no need for panic or alarm, but it is always better to have a professional take a second look, so you don’t have to worry, or take steps to treat the irregularity.

Put your mind at ease this new year and take steps to care for yourself. By doing a skin check, you may be saving your life, not to mention time and money. If you have checked your body from head to toe and have found some concerning spots, pick up the phone and make an appointment at Knoxville Dermatology Group. The experienced dermatologists know exactly what to look for from years of caring for patients. Visit our website today or give us a call at (865) 690-9467.

Give Yourself the Gift of New Health This Year

health, beauty, resort and relaxation concept – beautiful woman in spa salon getting face treatment

In the midst of the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, it’s hard to take a moment and care for yourself. The holidays are a time for giving, so why not give yourself a gift? It’s important to take a moment before the new year to take inventory of your skin’s health and pamper yourself as well.

Why take care of your skin? Your skin is actually your largest organ. It helps protect you from the elements and help regulate your body temperature. However, because of this, your skin is extremely vulnerable. Did you know that over 20 percent of the United States population is affected by skin cancer? This is why the American Academy of Dermatology recommends getting a skin exam once per year. This is a great way to care for yourself. A skin check not only checks for skin cancer, but also marks areas that are precancerous or are cause for concern.

Knoxville Dermatology Group

Getting a skin check is also an excellent time to notify your dermatologist of any other issues that may be bothering you, such as dry skin, irritation or the development of symptoms that could lead to a more serious skin condition. During this time, you can work with your dermatologist to develop a treatment plan for any number of skin conditions. The dermatologists at Knoxville Dermatology Group are experts in over 3,000 skin conditions and have the experience to help you tackle your skin issues. This way, you can step into the new year as your best self.

MediSpa

Another way to gift yourself during the giving season is to book a pampering session at KnoxvilleDermatology Group’s MediSpa. The spa offers traditional day spa services as well as medical spa services. Traditional services include brow and lash tinting, facial waxing and facials. If you’re ready to put your skin on display in the new year, try out some of these phenomenal medical spa services, for gorgeous andlong-lasting results.

  • Juvedermâ: While Juvedermâ is mainly used to give the patient fuller lips, it has a number of great benefits to give you smooth, blemish-free skin. Benefits include a reduction in the appearance of scars, sagging and fine lines.
  • Pearl Laser: If you want those pesky sun spots and brown spots to go away, it may be time to get a Pearl Laser treatment. These treatments help lighten dark spots on the skin to give you a more even skin tone.
  • Chemical Treatments: Also known as chemical peels, MediSpa offers a number of medical grade peels, including a MediSpaprivate label peel. The treatments can improve a myriad of skin issues such as fine lines, aging, enlarged pores, acne and more.

This holiday season, take a moment to not only pamper yourself but care for your skin’s health. By having a skin check done, you can potentially save yourself from advanced skin cancer, as well as identify areas of concern. To make an appointment for a skin check, visit our website or call us at (865) 690-9467. For an appointment with ourMediSpa, please visit our website to learn more about the services provided, or call us at (865)342-5823. 

The Universal Threat of Skin Cancer

Summer is over, and the amount of time we are spending outside is dwindling. As the tans fade, many will turn to tanning beds to contain the sun-kissed glow to the skin. Everyone knows that tanning beds are bad for you, but just a few times won’t hurt, right? Wrong. Just one use of the tanning bed dramatically increases your chances of developing a form of skin cancer. When detected early, skin cancer is highly treatable, but if left unnoticed, there can be seriously, lasting and reoccurring problems. Here is a breakdown of the different types of skin cancer, how to tell the difference and when to know it’s time to see a dermatologist.

Skin Cancer 101

Skin cancer is defined as an abnormal growth of skin cells in a concentrated area. UV ray exposure or sun damage are the leading causes associated with skin cancer. It affects all skin types, although those with a fair complexion or are susceptible to sunburns are at a higher risk. Although people who are over 40 are more likely to get it, using a tanning bed early on can increase the chances by up to 59 percent. Depending on the type of skin cancer, treatments range from topical medications to chemotherapy and radiation.

Actinic Keratoses

Referred to as AKs, actinic keratoses are precancerous growths on the surface of the skin. They form when the skin is damaged by UV rays and appear as dry, scaly patches or spots. People who form an AK once are susceptible to them reoccurring frequently throughout life. The patches can go away, then reappear once the skin is exposed to the sun.

Although AKs are precancerous, it’s important to visit a dermatologist immediately for treatment before the possibility of squamous cell carcinoma arises. Actinic keratoses are only characterized by physical symptoms. People with these spots might notice a rough patch that is not entirely visible and painful when rubbed. The spot might itch and burn, and the lips on the face may become dry.

Basal Cell Carcinoma

Basal cell carcinoma is the most common form of skin cancer and most diagnosed form in the United States. It appears in common sun-exposed places of the skin like the face, neck and hands. Like all skin cancers, the usage of tanning beds dramatically increases the chances of developing BCC by 40 percent. BCC grows slowly, rarely spreads and is highly treatable, but it’s important to get a worrisome spot checked out immediately when noticed. This form of cancer can destroy bone, tissue and the skin.

Basal cell carcinoma shows up on the skin in various forms. Most commonly, it will appear as a dome-shaped growth with visible blood vessels. It can look as a pink or red patch of scaly skin, like eczema. In addition, it may form as a yellowish-pale scar that won’t heal. The growth will often bleed, ooze then scab over.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma

There are over 700,000 cases of squamous cell carcinoma diagnosed in the United States every year. This form of skin cancer starts off as actinic keratoses, precancerous growths. People who are diagnosed with SCC have had sun exposure to their skin for an extended amount of years. Squamous cell carcinoma is a slow-growing form of skin cancer.

SCC is physically characterized by a rough bump or lump on the skin. It will grow to be dome-shaped, then crust over and bleed. It looks to be a sore that doesn’t heal, and if it does, it will reappear. Squamous cell carcinoma is diagnosed by a dermatologist who will perform a biopsy. Treatments can include excision, surgery, radiation or light therapy. The type of treatment depends on how deep the cancer has grown and how much it has spread.

Melanoma

Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer and is the easiest spread. When detected early enough, it is highly treatable, but it is important to know the waning signs of what to look for. People who spend lots of time in the sun should perform regular body checks for any abnormal moles or growths. You can detect a worrisome spot by looking for the symmetry, border, color, diameter and evolution of the area.

Melanoma can change an pre-existing mole or form a completely new spot on the skin. It can also appear as a dark streak under a finger or toe nail. Melanoma can become deadly if it spreads to the lymph nodes or any internal organs. Depending on the stage it is caught, melanoma is treated by surgery, radiation or even chemotherapy. If you have a concerning spot on your skin, make an appointment with a dermatologist immediately.

The medical professionals at Knoxville Dermatology Group are experienced in catching, diagnosing and treating all forms of skin cancer. To make an appointment, contact us online here, or at (865) 690-9467 today.

The ABC’s of Skin Checks

Woman getting unknown spot checked out.

Summer is in full-swing, and you’re likely spending more time in the sun. Skin checks for abnormal moles or growths is basic sun safety that should be practiced year round. Spending time in the sun can bring out freckles and spots you didn’t even know you had. Is it a mole? Is it a freckle? Or is it something to be more concerned about? It can be hard to determine which spots are normal, or if they need to be checked out. However, it is imperative that when something odd does appear gets diagnosed and treated correctly.

The skin is the largest organ of the body, and more people are diagnosed with skin cancer than any other form. Tanning beds are considered extremely unsafe and can increase the risk of developing melanoma by 75 percent. In fact, one person dies from melanoma every hour. When caught early enough, skin cancer is highly treatable. Fortunately, checking our bodies for signs of skin cancer is as easy as ABC.

Asymmetry

One of the warning signs for skin cancer to be aware of is the symmetry of the mole. If you draw a line through the center of the mole and it doesn’t match, then it could be a sign of melanoma or other form of skin cancer.

Border

A normal mole or “beauty mark” will have a natural and clear border. Spots with a blurry or jagged edge may mean it’s time to get it checked out by a dermatologist or other medical professional.

Color 

A typical mole should be a solid, brown pigment with no color variation. A spot with multiple colors, especially dark purple or black could be a sign of cancerous growth. 

Diameter

A normal mole or freckle should be about a quarter of an inch in diameter, or the size of a pencil eraser. Anything larger than that should be checked out by a doctor immediately. Even if the spot doesn’t raise any other red flags, something new and of that size is extremely concerning.

Elevation

A normal mole should have a smooth texture and be of a normal height. Something that doesn’t meet those qualifications is a concern. All spots on your body should be similar in texture, color and height.

If you have a concerning spot that meets any of these conditions, don’t hesitate to see a dermatologist. At Knoxville Dermatology Group, our team specializes in identifying pre-cancerous growths and taking the proper treatment course. To make an appointment, contact KDG at (865) 690-9467 today!

How to Screen Your Sun Protection

If everyone’s skin is different, then why do we try to protect it like it’s the same? Companies create makeup and skin care products designed to cater to different skin types. However, when it comes to sunscreen, people rarely research what they are buying, and which product will best protect their skin. Luckily for you, the American Academy of Dermatology released tons of tips and information that will help you choose a sun protection that will best guard your skin.

What to Buy

Sunscreen is typically sold in the forms of lotions, sticks and sprays. You will want to purchase something that is broad-spectrum, water-resistant and has an SPF of 30 or higher. Sunscreen must be applied every two hours, or after swimming and physical activity.

While lotions are recommended due to their full-coverage, sticks and sprays tend to be more convenient. A stick of sunscreen should be applied in four layers for maximum coverage. Rubbing it in after application ensures that an even layer has been covered. Spray sunscreen should be applied generously to your skin. Do not use a spray on a windy day to avoid inhaling the chemicals.

Types of Sunscreen

There are two different types of sunscreens available on the market: physical and chemical. Physical sunscreens work like a shield, as they sit on the surface of the skin to deflect the sun’s rays. This type of sunscreen should be used by people with sensitive skin. Physical sunscreens will include ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide.

Chemical sunscreens are designed to be applied easier to the skin. These products don’t leave the white residue that is frequent in physical sunscreens. Instead of reflecting the sun’s rays, chemical sunscreens absorb them. Ingredients like avobenzone, octisalate and homosalate are common in these products. The FDA has also issued a warning against sunscreen pills, which have been found to be ineffective.

Ingredients to Avoid

It’s very important to look at the ingredients in sun screen to see if it is suitable for your personal skin type. Recently, Hawaiian legislators banned the distribution of sunscreens that contain oxybenzone and octinoxate. These ingredients are used in chemical sunscreens and have raised environmental concerns. The chemicals are also linked to the damage of marine life and coral reefs.

The FDA has yet to ban these chemicals, as they are still approved and considered safe for human use. In fact, according to American Academy of Dermatology President Suzanne M. Olbricht, MD, all of the active ingredients in U.S. sunscreens have been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration as safe and effective for human use..  When one in five Americans will develop skin cancer at some point, the FDA is encouraging everyone to take the proper steps to protect themselves from the sun’s UV rays.

Do you have a concerning spot you need looked at? Or need help finding suitable sun protection for your skin? Contact Knoxville Dermatology Group today to make an appointment at (865) 690-9467.

How to Care for Aging Hair, Skin and Nails

Medical and scientific advances mean people are living longer and mortality rates are lower. In fact, the 65 and over demographic is the fastest growing age group in the U.S., totaling over 40 million people. In 2050, it is estimated that 20 percent of the population will fall into the 65 and over age category. Those in this age group may experience different challenges with their hair, skin and nails and it’s helpful to know what to look for and the treatments available.

Hair

As people age, it’s natural to experience graying and thinning hair due to a decrease in hair pigmentation and production. This leaves the scalp susceptible to UV radiation and other environmental factors that cause signs of  aging. It’s important to check the scalp regularly for cancerous skin tags or lesions that may have developed. Biotin and marine fish extract are supplements that strengthen hair production.

Skin

When the skin is the largest organ to the body, it’s important to pay extra attention and care for it in old age. Xerosis is a common condition found in older patients and causes the skin to become inflamed, cracked and dry. This condition occurs mostly on the legs but can appear on the hands and torso. Moisturizing two to three times a day and to avoid harsh soaps and hot water is recommended.

Non-melanoma skin cancer is another condition  people may experience as they age.  Abnormal skin growths are common in seniors, so it can be difficult to differentiate between damaged skin and a cancerous spot. Skin cancer can be prevented best by protecting yourself from ultraviolet light exposure. Regularly checking the skin for any abnormalities can help with early detection and improve the success of treatment.

Nails

Nail growth starts to slow with aging. The nail plate will become thinner causing it to become more brittle and to split. Onychauxis is a deformity that causes nail discoloration and can be painful. Keeping the hands dry and regular nail care appointments should be made to maintain nail structure and prevent infections.

Looking to discuss geriatric dermatology and skin care further? Call Knoxville Dermatology Group today at (865) 690-9467 to make an appointment today!

 

Check Your Man Out: It May Save His Life.

Father’s Day is over, but Men’s Health Month will last for the rest of June. Men’s Health Month was recognized by Congress in 1994 to encourage men, boys and their families to seek regular medical examination and advice for preventative disease treatment. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, women are nine times more likely to detect melanoma or another cancerous spot on the skin. This may be why white men above the age of 50 are the highest demographic to develop skin cancer. If cancer doesn’t discriminate, how is this possible? Here is a list of manly habits that raises men’s risk of developing skin cancer:

He’s a Chronic Shorts Wearer:

The backs of the legs and calves are a highly susceptible place to develop skin cancer. This is especially common for people who wear shorts or go to the beach regularly. When wearing shorts, the amount of sun reaching your legs can be dangerous even when you aren’t intending on getting sun. It can be difficult applying sunscreen to the backs of the legs and keeping them covered from the sun while running daily errands.

He Drives Everywhere:

Truck drivers, delivery people and construction workers have a greater risk of developing skin cancer to their hands and forearms. The left arm and both hands receive direct sunlight when they are on the steering wheel. Many don’t realize they are receiving that exposure due to being in a temperature-controlled car.

His New Haircut:

The top of the head is another common spot for men to develop skin cancer, especially when sporting a shorter hairstyle. It also makes it one of the hardest places to check. Even a ball cap can’t protect the ears from exposure to the sun. Regular scalp checks and wide brimmed hats are recommended for people who work and spend time outside on a regular basis.

To help raise awareness about men’s risk to skin cancer, the AAD released a campaign titled, “Check Your Partner. Check Yourself.” This encourages family members to check both themselves and their partners for suspicious moles and spots. Melanoma and other forms of skin cancer are highly treatable when detected early.

If you have concerns about you or your partner’s skin, contact Knoxville Dermatology Group at (865) 690-9467 for an appointment.