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Skin Routine Post-Treatment: Do’s and Don’ts

Skin Routine Post-Treatment: Do’s and Don’ts

When it comes to skin procedures, the aftercare is as important as the treatment itself. Do you plan on undergoing laser treatment, microdermabrasion or even a facial peel anytime soon? Be sure to continue reading to understand the do’s and don’ts of a post-treatment skincare routine.

Don’t Overload Your Skin

Treatments and procedures are an exciting way to let your best face shine, but be cautious when taking care of your skin post-treatment. Avoid harsh chemicals, peels, waxes, or other laser treatments at least two weeks after your appointment. Avoiding these will allow your skin to heal and return its hardy barrier to its natural state. Your skin will be more inflamed and irritated than usual, so make sure to stick to the basics of washing, moisturizing, and leaving your skin alone.

Don’t Congest Your Skin

Once the skin is clear of dead cells, toxins, hair, or any additional skin condition the treatment is targeting, it’s time to give the skin a break. It is recommended to avoid makeup or any topical creams on the treated area. Applying these substances clogs the pores of the affected area, causing further irritation and damage to the skin. If necessary, apply makeup or creams in small amounts to see if irritation does occur.

Do Avoid Sun Exposure and Excess Heat

Post-treatment, the skin’s protective barrier is weakened. Since the protective barrier isn’t as strong, it leaves the skin more vulnerable and inclined to damage. After your procedure, it is crucial to stay out of the sun for at least seven days post-treatment. Direct exposure to the sun is detrimental to the skin due to the harsh effects of UV rays, which will slow down the healing process. This is due to the excess skin sensitivity from a treatment that leaves you more inflamed and irritated than usual. The vulnerability of the skin post-treatment calls for cold temperatures and reduced exposure to heat. Avoid excess heat from hot showers, tubs, heating pads, or saunas. A surplus of heat causes the pores to open up, which could cause further irritation and discomfort.

Do Use Sunscreen

Sunscreen is always a good idea, but it is imperative when you’ve just undergone a skin treatment. Recently, treated skin, such as laser removal and microdermabrasion, makes the skin extremely vulnerable and prone to damage. The sun and its damaging effects require you to stack up on the SPF. Even if exposed for a short amount of time, it is vital to wear sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30. Wearing sunscreen will ensure that your skin will stay protected, even in the harshest of conditions. It’s important to remember that being in the sun for a short amount of time still does some damage. With that said, don’t forget to layer up on the SPF and reapply every so often!

Do Know What You’re Getting Into

Facial treatments have an immense impact on the skin, so it is essential to know everything about the procedure in which you’re undergoing. If you want to address skin issues, such as wrinkles or acne, you should highly consider visiting a dermatologist’s office rather than a spa. Spas, unlike a skin professional’s office, focus on short-term improvements and the idea of pampering their clients. On the other hand, dermatologists have the power to go beyond skin treatments and evaluate their clients on a deeper and more effective level. They also go beyond cosmetic issues and look at your skin for signs of more severe problems such as skin cancer, which could end up saving your life.

Whatever treatment you plan to undergo, the experts at Knoxville Dermatology Group are skilled professionals who can provide various skin treatments, procedures, and consultations.

Skin Care Tips For Every Age

Skin Care Tips For Every Age

Our skin evolves with age. Your skin isn’t the same in your 60’s as it was in your 20’s.  Should you be worried about acne or wrinkles? What can you do at your age to benefit your skin later? Your skin care routine should evolve as you age.

20’s & 30’s

Fighting acne is the main concern, especially in your 20’s. Water-based, oil-free wash is a safe staple to keep in your medicine cabinet. Keep your skin free of dirt and oil by removing makeup, washing your face and start a basic skin care regimen with a moisturizer and antioxidant every day. Wearing sunscreen every day will also help protect your skin from premature aging, even in the winter. This will help the signs of aging that begins to develop in your 30’s. Start using anti-aging lotion and vitamin A as soon as possible. Vitamin A helps smooth wrinkles and combats the signs of aging.

40’s & 50’s

The skin loses some of its texture and fullness in your 40’s. Wrinkles and age spots begin appearing as well. Products with peptides in them even out pigment and increase collagen growth. An estrogen drop in your 50’s may dry out your skin and decrease its elasticity. Combat this symptom of hormonal changes with glycolic acid, which helps increase skin cell production and turnover. Additionally, introduce a heavier treatment cream high in ceramides and natural cholesterol to replenish dry skin into the routine.

60+

Expand your skincare regimen to include all skin aspects. Apply SPF every day to keep the sun from advancing sun aging. Use cleansers that won’t dry out your skin and products with hydroquinone to help eliminate dark spots on the face hands. Keep up with your regular routine and continue to wash your face and apply your products daily.

 

Need some extra advice on what to include in your skincare routine? Visit one of our dermatologists.

Spring Break Prep: What You Need To Know

Spring Break is just around the corner. The kids have been stirring in their desks since the holidays, while our legs haven’t seen the light of day since last fall. We’re ready for the warmth of the sun and beach, but we mustn’t forget the risks that come with too much sun exposure and the importance of wearing sunscreen. Be conscious this Spring Break and protect your skin by following these guidelines:

The First Tan of the Year

No one wants to be the same color as the sand when they step onto the beach. The first time you attempt to get some color in the year is the most crucial since your skin is at its’ most vulnerable point. Regularly apply a high SPF sunscreen, and don’t be afraid to take a break in the shade when you start to notice your skin turning pink. Many consider getting a base tan before leaving for vacation; however, this doesn’t necessarily mean your skin will be better adapted to the sun.

A tan indicates that the skin has already produced some melanin, which helps filter future rays from the sun. That’s why pale skin burns easier than a darker skin tone. While a base tan may help your skin not burn as badly on your first day at the beach, many turn to tanning beds to help achieve the foundation. Don’t be tempted. One use of a tanning bed increases your chance of developing melanoma by 75 percent. Although you may head down to the beach with a nicer glow than most, you’ll have a higher risk of skin cancer when you return. It simply isn’t worth the risk.

Know the Products

Everyone’s skin is different; so, it’s important to do your research on the sun protection products you’re considering before you buy. Sunscreen is typically sold in the forms of lotions, sticks, and sprays. Make sure your purchase is broad-spectrum, water-resistant and has an SPF of 30 or higher. While lotions are recommended due to their full-coverage, sticks and sprays tend to be more convenient.

People with sensitive skin should use a physical sunscreen, which works like a shield to deflect the sun’s rays off the surface of the skin. While chemical sunscreens don’t leave the white residue that’s common during application, physical products are easier and healthier for the skin to absorb.

Know the Risk

We all know there are risks that come with sun tanning so it’s imperative to remind ourselves of those risks as we get ready to spend the following months in the sun. A sunburn, also referred to as erythema, is the most obvious sign of UV exposure and skin damage. Damaged DNA in skin cells cause the skin to produce abnormal growths, which often results in skin cancer.

Besides the risk of skin cancer, tanning also affects the skin on a physical level. Unprotected UV exposure results in “photoaging,” known as premature aging. The UV rays will break down the collagen and elastic fibers of the skin, causing wrinkles, dark spots, and leathery skin. The process of peeling is the skin healing itself by removing damaged cells. It’s important to allow your skin to heal and generate new cells.

Check Yourself

Spending time in the sun can bring out freckles and spots you didn’t even know existed. It can be difficult to determine if these spots are healthy growths or a sign for something more ominous. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends visiting your dermatologist at least once a year and giving yourself frequent skin checks to monitor for anything abnormal. When checking a mole for abnormalities, it’s important to remember your ABCs:

  • Asymmetry: The first warning sign for skin cancer to be aware of is the symmetry of the mole. Your mole should be relatively symmetrical; so, if you draw a line through the middle of the spot and it doesn’t evenly match, make an appointment with your dermatologist.
  • Border: A normal mole or “beauty mark” will have a natural and clear border. A spot with a blurry or jagged edge is a sign for concern.
  • Color: A typical mole should be a solid, brown pigment with no color variation. Spots with multiple colors, especially dark purple or black could indicate that it’s a cancerous growth.
  • Diameter: A normal mole or freckle is around 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 that appears quickly and of a large size is extremely concerning.
  • Elevation: A normal mole should have a smooth texture and be flat or slightly raised. All spots on your body should be relatively 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.

Don’t Forget Sunscreen this Spring Break!

Springtime means Spring Break! No matter where you are (or aren’t) going, remember to use sunscreen. 90% of the sun’s rays can penetrate through clouds – meaning you could still get a sunburn when the sun is hiding. Here are some tips to help protect you this Spring Break:

  1. Look for an SPF 30 or greater, water-resistant sunscreen that provides broad-spectrum coverage.
  2. Re-apply every 80 minutes.
  3. Check to make sure your sunscreen isn’t expired. Toss it if it is over a year old – your sunscreen starts to become less effective at blocking damaging UV rays.
  4. Always apply SPF 30 minutes before going outside. It takes time to absorb into your skin.
  5. With that, make sure to use at least 1oz of sunscreen. The less you apply, the less protection you have.
  6. Commonly missed places are the tops of the feet, ears, scalp, and lips. These areas are often skipped over and therefore at a higher risk of skin cancer.
  7. Use a sunscreen that is specifically designed for the face.
  8. Limit sun exposure from 10 am – 2 pm. This is when the sun is at its strongest.
  9. Increase your sun protection by wearing sunglasses, a hat, and proper protective clothing.
  10. Educate yourself on the ABCDE’s of Melanoma so when you perform your monthly skin check, you know what to look for.

Learn more about the sunscreens we carry by stopping into any of our offices.

Keep Sunscreen On-Hand this Spring

 

Spring is here, which means the sun is back out! Just because it is not blistering hot outside does not mean you can skip out on the sunscreen. Harmful UVA rays can pass through clouds and cause damage to your skin. Even if it is cloudy out be sure to lather up on sunscreen. Also, there are sunscreens for different parts of the body. For instance, your face. Use a sunscreen that is specifically designed for your face. Your facial skin can be more sensitive to irritation and face sunscreens account for that. Lucky for you, we carry sunscreen for purchase in all of our offices. Check out some of our best sellers below:

EltaMD UV Daily Broad-Spectrum SPF 40

Serious UV protection and superior hydration join forces in this sheer facial sunscreen. EltaMD UV Daily has hyaluronic acid to boost moisture retention and diminish fine lines. This lightweight moisturizer with UV protection can be worn alone or under makeup. Choose from tinted and un-tinted formulas for use every day.  The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends this product as an effective broad-spectrum sunscreen.

Benefits:

  • 9.0% transparent zinc oxide
  • Hyaluronic Acid increases skin smoothness, softness and decreases wrinkles
  • Glides on easily and absorbs quickly into the skin
  • UVA/UVB sun protection
  • Fragrance-free, paraben-free, sensitivity-free and noncomedogenic

EltaMD UV Physical Broad-Spectrum SPF 41

For oil-free sun protection with just a touch of color, the lightly tinted UV Physical is a healthy choice. This chemical-free natural mineral sunscreen contains antioxidants to help eliminate free radicals. Water-resistant UV Physical withstands water, humidity, and perspiration. The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends this product as an effective broad-spectrum sunscreen.

Benefits:

  • 9.0% transparent zinc oxide, 7.0% titanium dioxide
  • Lightly-tinted formula
  • Water-resistant (40 minutes)
  • UVA/UVB sun protection
  • Fragrance-free, oil-free, paraben-free, sensitivity-free, chemical-free and noncomedogenic

EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46

EltaMD UV Clear is an oil-free sunscreen. It helps calm and protects sensitive skin prone to breakouts, rosacea, and discoloration. Also, it contains niacinamide (vitamin B3), hyaluronic acid and lactic acid. Very lightweight and silky, it may be worn with makeup or alone. Choose from tinted and un-tinted formulas for use every day. The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends this product as an effective broad-spectrum sunscreen.

Benefits:

  • 9.0% transparent zinc oxide
  • Calms and protects acne-prone skin
  • UVA/UVB sun protection
  • Fragrance-free, oil-free, paraben-free, sensitivity-free and noncomedogenic

Colorscience Sunforgettable® Total Protection™ Bush-On Shield SPF 50

The Colorscience Sunforgettable brush is powered by EnviroScreen™ Technology. This all-powerful, all-mineral skin shield provides complete protection in one convenient, on-the-go application. This can be worn alone or over makeup.

Benefits:

  • Convenient, easy-to-apply, portable brush
  • Hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic
  • UVA/UVB sun protection
  • Water resistant (80 minutes)

ZO Sunscreen + Primer SPF 30

This is a non-greasy, quick-drying sunscreen. ZO Sunscreen + Primer has a sheer matte finish and offers broad-spectrum protection against UVA & UVB rays. It has a universal tint and a matte finish. This helps reduce the appearance of skin imperfections. It can be used alone or worn under makeup for a long-lasting application.

Benefits:

  • Exclusive 12-hour time-release antioxidant complex guards against photodamage
  • Use alone or wear under makeup for a more even, long-lasting application
  • UVA/UVB/HEV sun protection
  • Helps to smooth the skin and diminish the appearance of fine lines

Sunscreens are available at any of our office locations (note: not all sunscreens are available at all locations). To purchase products or to schedule a skin care consultation to see which products are best for your skin, please visit our website.

Make Your New Year’s Resolution Healthy Skin

New year, new skin? The new year is a fresh chance for us to work towards the betterment of ourselves. Whether your resolution is to give up a certain vice or pick up a good habit, it’s important to focus on attainable goals that lead you to a better life. Many vow to lose weight or pick up a new activity, but in 2019, we encourage you to make a commitment to better skin health.

Your epidermis, or skin, is the largest and fastest-growing organ in your body. It’s a defense barrier to outside damages and is constantly producing new cells to replace the old. Although our skin is continuously growing, that doesn’t mean it will take care of itself. Our skin requires daily care to be certain it’s working to its’ fullest potential. For 2019, make the simple resolution of adding any of these skin care practices to your daily routine

Moisturizing Daily

Just because the calendar is growing another year older, doesn’t mean our skin has to. Adding a daily moisturizer to your skin care routine is the perfect way to start fighting against bad skin. Winter air and dry heat can leave the skin feeling dry and cracked. Moisturizers will leave your skin feeling smooth and hydrated. Their effects are proven to fight off skin problems like blemishes and wrinkles.

With just as many skin types as there are moisturizing products, it’s important to talk with a dermatologist to determine which is the best for you. If your skin is naturally oily, be sure to choose a moisturizing lotion with exfoliation properties versus a smooth cream. However, those with drier skin need creams due to the higher oil content that’s contained.

SPF All Year

You may be wondering why we’re talking about sunscreen in January. Although we aren’t actively trying to sun ourselves in the winter months, that doesn’t mean we aren’t receiving the sun’s harmful rays when we venture outside. While it’s cold, your arms and legs will be protected from the sun by your long-sleeved clothes. We suggest adding a facial sunscreen to your morning routine, especially if you spend a good amount of your day outside. The sunscreen you choose must be broad spectrum against both UVA and UVB rays, water resistant and have an SPF of at least 30. As the months warm up and you start exposing more skin, start regularly applying sunscreen to those exposed areas as well.

Clean Face Before Bed

This one is a tale as old as time, but somehow the hardest to follow. We all know how incredibly important it is to give our skin a clean rest during the night. Washing your face before bed with a cleanser takes off any dirt or heavy foundation that accumulates on your skin during the day. By sticking to this hard habit, your skin will surely thank you in a few decades.

Annual Mole Check

Maybe not the most glamorous resolution, but still one you’ll want to make a habit of. It’s important to visit a dermatologist at least once a year to check out any curious, new growths on your skin. Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer and can be deadly if left untreated. It often appears as a small blemish on you skin and can often be mistaken for something less serious.

If you notice a new mole or freckle on your skin, be sure to follow these guidelines to determine if it’s abnormal. If you aren’t sure or if you have the least bit of worry, schedule an appointment with a medical professional. They’ll easily be able to examine and test the worrisome spot to see if it’s of any concern.

Keep Up with It

We know that the hardest part of a resolution is sticking with it. If you find yourself mid-February and falling out of your new skin care habits, don’t be afraid to recommit and work for better skin. Although the first day of a new year is excellent motivation to start the things you’ve been meaning to, it doesn’t dictate as your only chance for change. Change happens daily but can only be met through persistent determination. Choosing a resolution as simple as adding a moisturizer to your everyday routine may be the start towards becoming a better you.

Need help with your resolution towards better skin? The dermatologists at Knoxville Dermatology Group have years of practiced experience in suggesting products, checking moles and creating a healthier skin to live in. To make an appointment with any of our medical professionals, visit us   or give us a call at 865-690-9467.

Skin Care Tips for Every Age

Our skin evolves with age. A 22 year-old will have a different skin regimen than a 62 year old. Should you be worrying about acne or wrinkles? What can you do at your age to benefit your skin later?

20’s & 30’s

Fighting acne is the main concern, especially in your 20’s. Water-based, oil-free wash is usually successful. Keep your skin free of dirt and oil by removing makeup and washing your face daily.

Signs of aging begin to develop in your 30’s. Start using anti-aging lotions as soon as possible. Fine lines and uneven skin tone can be helped with a repairing moisturizer.

40’s & 50’s

The skin may begin losing some of its texture in your 40’s. Wrinkles and age spots may begin appearing. Products with peptide in them even out pigment and increase collagen growth.

An estrogen drop in your 50’s may make dry out your skin and decrease its elasticity. Combat this symptom of hormonal changes with glycolic acid, which helps increase skin cell production and turnover.

60+

Expand your skin care regimen to include all skin aspects. Apply SPF every day to keep the sun from advancing sun aging. Use cleansers that won’t dry out your skin and products with hydroquinone to help eliminate dark spots on the face hands.

Need some extra advice, schedule an appointment with KDG by calling (865)690-9467.

A Sunscreen Vocabulary Guide

When planning fun in the sun, don’t forget sunscreen to protect your skin. With hundreds of sunscreen manufacturers lining the shelves, it’s especially difficult to choose the best option. Here are some basic definitions of sun protection that will help you decide the best lotion for your day outside.

UVA/UVB Rays – The two types of UV light that can hurt your skin are called UVA and UVB. UVA rays penetrate the deeper levels of your skin, including the dermis, which is the skin’s thickest layer. UVB rays burn the top layer of your skin. Increased exposure to UVA and UVB rays can lead to skin aging, wrinkling and skin cancer.

SPF (Sun Protection Factor) – SPF is measured by how long it will take for protected skin to burn compared to skin without sunscreen. However, each level of SPF is only slightly stronger than the previous (SPFs over 50 are only slightly more protective than 30.) These are only a measure of UVB rays, because UVA protection isn’t rated.

Broad Spectrum – Broad spectrum means the product protects your skin from both UVA and UVB rays. Because SPF’s measurements are tricky, the term “broad spectrum” is a good sign to look for.

Water-Resistant – Water-resistant is pretty self-explanatory, but manufacturers sometimes leave the exact measurement off the bottle. “Water resistant” as a general rule means the SPF will have its protective effects for up to 40 minutes of swimming/sweating.

If you have any concerns about your skin or skin-aging, contact Knoxville Dermatology Group by calling (865)690-9467.

Don’t Skimp on Your SPF!

Why SPF is important for your skin

Before you step out of the house this winter, protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays with SPF. Even though the summer days have long gone, the need for sun protection still remains. Skimping on the SPF can hurt you in the long run, causing wrinkles, skin discolorations and even skin cancer. Here’s what you should know:

What is SPF?

SPF stands for sun protection factor, and is an indicator of the amount of time you can spend in the sun before getting burned. Unfortunately, SPF is only a measurement of protection from the sun’s UVB rays, and not the more silent threats of UVA rays.

What’s the difference between UVB and UVA rays?

UVB rays are the culprits behind nasty, blistering sunburns. UVA rays, however, are the primary cause of skin cancer and wrinkles. You can protect yourself from UVB rays with any type of SPF protection, but you will need to look for sunblock with specific ingredients in order to protect yourself from UVA rays.

Can I protect myself from UVB and UVA rays with a greater SPF?

SPF refers to a product’s ability to protect against sunburn caused by UVB rays. A higher SPF only provides a small increase in protection. To determine if your sunscreen can also protect you from harmful UVA rays, check the formula for one of the following active ingredients:

  • Zinc oxide
  • Titanium dioxide
  • Avobenzone (or butyl methoxydibenzoylmethane)
  • Mexoryl SX (or ecamsule)
  • Tinosorb
Can I combine two different SPFs to get one SPF number?

Unfortunately, SPF doesn’t work that way. Combining sunscreen products doesn’t mean that their individual SPF numbers will add up to one greater SPF number. However, layering is still beneficial!

Remember to apply sunscreen every day to protect yourself from the sun’s harmful UVB and UVA rays. Even if the sun isn’t shining bright this winter, its rays can still cause damage, reflecting against the clouds and snow and penetrating through glass windows that aren’t coated for UV protection. Applying the right type of sunblock or sunscreen is the only way to ensure you are protecting your skin.

Gel, Cream or Spray – the best of SPF

Thanks to daylight savings and the sporadic beautiful weather, Knoxville is out soaking up the sun. We know SPF is part of your skincare routine, but what type of SPF do you use and when? Here are our suggestions for the best time and place for each type of SPF.

GEL SPF

Protect everything you’ve got – your head, your arms, even your feet! Hairier places call for gel SPFs. It provides enough coverage without causing an overproduction of oil.

CREAM SPF

Multitasking is such a beautiful thing. SPF creams allow you to do just that! They moisturize and protect your skin. Whether you’re looking to manage oily skin or hydrate dry skin, there are SPF creams for various skin types.

SPRAY SPF

Sprays are sometimes a safe route to go when dealing with children eager to head to the swing set or run in the sand. The trick with the spray is to make sure you get a nice, even coat. Be sure not to inhale it or keep the bottle near heat or an open flame.

Regardless of your preference, be sure to apply the appropriate amount 20-30 minutes prior to sun exposure. For more SPF tips, read our blog post SPF Savvy.