Garner Dermatology - Top-Rated Dermatologists in Garland, TX

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7 Common Reasons for Hair Loss in Women

It is normal for women to lose about 100 hair strands every day.  If you are losing more hair than usual or notice bald spots, it is time to meet a dermatologist.
Contrary to popular belief, home remedies may not completely arrest hair fall. Hair fall may be due to various reasons. It takes a certified dermatologist to get to the root cause of hair fall and recommend an effective treatment plan.
Common Causes of Hair Loss in Women?
1)    Alopecia Areata
Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disease. In this condition, the immune system attacks the hair follicles and other healthy cells. People with alopecia areata experience hair loss in patches. Some women experience complete hair loss and hair loss throughout the body.
Corticosteroid injections and anti-inflammatory drugs are used to treat the disease. The medications work by suppressing the immune system.
2)    Nutritional Deficiencies
A diet that is low in protein, zinc, Vitamin B3, and iron can cause hair fall. To treat a nutritional deficiency, your doctor may recommend a blood test. After an accurate diagnosis of the issue, health supplements like Nutrafol Women would be recommended.
3)    Birth Control
Changing to a new brand of hormonal birth control pills can induce hair loss. Some women experience hair loss even months after they stop taking pills.
Contraceptive pills with a low androgen index may control hormone-induced hair loss. Other forms of contraception such as implants, and skin patches cause hair fall too.
4)    Genetics
Female pattern hair loss (FPHL) or Androgenetic alopecia is a common genetic condition that causes hair fall in women. Hair thins around the crown and on the sides. Hair follicles shrink, and the new hair is thinner and finer.
FPHL is more common in women over the age of 40 but can occur even during teenage. Dermatologists use more than one method of treatment to obtain optimal results.
5)    Postpartum Hair Loss
Most often, postpartum hair fall is normal. The dermatologist will perform the essential tests and suggest a breastfeeding-friendly treatment plan. Additional factors contributing to hair loss can be identified too through these tests.
One of the trusted recommendations from dermatologists is Nutrafol Postpartum. The product targets the major reasons behind thinning hair and fills the nutrition gap. Since it is made of natural ingredients, there are no major side effects to it.
6)    Lifestyle Habits
Common lifestyle practices can induce hair fall in women. Some of them are,
  • Wearing tight ponytails and braids can scar the hair follicles permanently (traction alopecia).
  •  Overuse of heat styling products (thermal damage) and overbleaching.
  •  Chemical procedures for straightening the hair strands can damage the follicles.
  • Over-washing of hair deprives the scalp of natural oils and makes it prone to damage.
  • Under-washing of hair leads to product build-up and hair fall.
7)    Stress
Hair fall is related to physical and emotional stress. High stress levels cause telogen effluvium. During this condition, the growth phase of the hair follicles slows down, and more hair follicles are moved into the resting phase.
The condition is temporary and reversible. Stress, when combined with sudden weight loss and poor diet, can aggravate telogen effluvium.
How to React to Excessive Hair Fall?
Do not panic! Hair fall can be controlled using different treatment options. It is best to talk to a dermatologist, go through a few tests to confirm the diagnosis, and proceed with the treatment.
If you want to learn more about hair loss and its various causes, talk to the hair loss specialists at West Dermatology. We curate customized treatment plans to help you deal with hair loss and improve your hair health.

Embracing Healthy Hair: Why Skincare Isn’t Just for Your Face

August is a month dedicated to raising awareness about hair loss, reminding us of the importance of caring for our hair as we do for our skin. While we diligently follow skincare routines to maintain radiant and youthful complexions, we often overlook the fact that our hair also requires the same level of attention and care. In this blog post, we’ll explore the crucial connection between skincare and haircare, understanding why they go hand-in-hand and how to nurture your locks for healthier, fuller, and more resilient hair.

1. The Skin-Hair Connection

You might be wondering, “What does skincare have to do with hair?” The answer lies in understanding the similarities between the two. Just as the skin is an organ, so is your scalp. It is essential to treat your scalp with the same care you would offer to your facial skin. A healthy scalp is the foundation for strong, vibrant hair. Neglecting your scalp can lead to various hair issues, including hair loss, dandruff, and dullness.

2. Choosing the Right Products

Just as you carefully select skincare products based on your skin type, haircare products should also be chosen wisely. Identify your hair type and specific concerns, such as dryness, oiliness, or hair loss. Use shampoos, conditioners, and treatments formulated to address these issues while nourishing your hair and scalp. Avoid products containing harsh chemicals, sulfates, and parabens, as they can strip your hair of its natural oils and exacerbate problems.

3. Consistent Cleansing and Exfoliation

Cleansing your face is a daily ritual, and the same principle applies to your hair. Regularly washing your hair with a gentle shampoo eliminates excess oils, dirt, and pollutants, providing a clean canvas for optimal hair growth. Additionally, just as exfoliating your skin aids in removing dead skin cells and promoting cell turnover, exfoliating your scalp helps unclog hair follicles, allowing new hair to grow unhindered.

4. Moisturization is Key

Keeping your skin hydrated is essential for maintaining its elasticity and suppleness. Similarly, moisturizing your hair is crucial to prevent dryness, frizz, and breakage. Apply a nourishing conditioner after each shampoo, focusing on the ends where hair tends to be most damaged. Regular deep conditioning treatments can revitalize your hair, making it more manageable and less prone to damage.

5. Protection from Environmental Factors

Your skin can be damaged by the sun’s harmful UV rays, leading to premature aging and other issues. Likewise, prolonged exposure to the sun can damage your hair, causing dryness and color fading. Wear a hat or use hair products with UV protection to shield your locks from harmful rays.

6. A Balanced Diet for Healthy Hair

Just as a balanced diet is crucial for glowing skin, it also plays a significant role in maintaining strong and luscious hair. Consume foods rich in vitamins, minerals, and proteins, such as fruits, vegetables, lean meats, and whole grains. These nutrients nourish hair follicles and promote healthy hair growth.

7. Stress Management and Hair Health

Stress can wreak havoc on both your skin and hair. Chronic stress can lead to hair loss and exacerbate existing hair issues. Engage in relaxation techniques, exercise regularly, and prioritize self-care to reduce stress levels and promote overall well-being, benefiting your hair in the process.

As we commemorate Hair Loss Awareness Month, let us remember that our hair deserves the same care and attention as our skin. By embracing a holistic approach to haircare, encompassing cleansing, moisturization, protection, and a balanced lifestyle, we can foster healthy, resilient hair that shines with vitality. So, let’s celebrate the connection between skincare and haircare and embark on a journey to nurture our locks with the same dedication we lavish on our skin. After all, embracing healthy hair contributes to our overall confidence and well-being.

The Root of Hair Thinning & Hair Loss

Do you know the medical term for a hair doctor? If you said ‘dermatologist,’ you’re right! Most people don’t realize that dermatologists are trained beyond skincare and can also help with conditions like hair loss. It may sound strange, but it’s true a dermatologist is a skin, nail, and hair doctor. Our board-certified dermatologists can diagnose the cause of your hair loss. They can also prescribe the products you need to improve your hair’s follicle growth cycle for better hair. 

How Much Hair Loss is Normal

You have more than 100,000 hairs on your head. They constantly cycle between growing and falling out. Losing between 50-100 hairs each day is part of the normal hair growth cycle. If more than this falls out, your hair is thinning, and it’s time to see your dermatologist. 

Signs of Thinning Hair in Women 

One of the first things a woman will notice when her hair’s thinning is that her part line seems wider than usual. Women might also see more scalp and less hair than before around the hairline that frames their face. This happens when follicles die. This means her scalp produces fewer hairs per square inch than usual. If this is happening, you need a dermatologist’s help to avoid further hair loss. 

Men Should Look For These Signs

The beginning of typical male-patterned baldness is a sure sign of hair loss. This starts above the temples and circles around the head, leaving only a strip of hair along the bottom. Men might also notice a receding hairline. Both of these signal disruption of the normal hair follicle cycle. 

Causes of Hair Loss

The most common cause of hair loss is the aging process. It’s natural for some follicles to stop producing hair. But hormonal changes experienced in pregnancy and menopause can cause your hair to thin while you’re relatively young. In addition, some people’s hair falls out prematurely because of a medical condition they have or medication they’re taking. Whatever the cause, if your hair loss is distressing to you, there are products your dermatologist can recommend to improve the situation. 

Products For Fuller Hair

The solution to thinning hair is medical-grade products. Our West Dermatology Skincare Shop offers quality brands like Nutrafol. Some of these work from the inside, others work from the outside. Both are effective: the best one for you is the one your dermatologist prescribes for your specific hair-loss condition. 

Hair Growth Serum

You can apply topical products directly to your scalp for ingredients that keep your hair follicle life cycle growing normally. Our dermatologists recommend Nutrafol Hair Growth Serum. This leave-in product contains a blend of antioxidants and minerals to support hair growth. You can massage it into your scalp twice a day.

Products That Work Internally

We also carry products at West Dermatology that help support your hair growth from the inside out. These supplements come in capsule form and are taken orally. They include the following quality products from Nutrafol:

Schedule An Appointment 

Hair loss doesn’t have to be an inevitable part of growing older, pregnancy, menopause, or illness. Our board-certified dermatologists can help you find the products you need to keep the fullest head of hair possible, despite your specific challenges. Reach out to one of our practices today and get on the path to better hair health. 

Layering Skincare: Is More Really More? How to Get the Most Out of Multiple Skincare Products

There is something luxurious and romantic about skincare. A skincare ritual offers an opportunity to prioritize our own needs and well-being. By making time to care for our skin, we are acknowledging our self-worth and demonstrating that we value ourselves. This simple act can help to cultivate a positive self-image and a healthy relationship with our bodies.

However, are DIY, multi-step skincare systems delivering real results, or are we overloading our skin with competing products?

First, let’s take a look at what layering skincare products involves.

What is Product Layering?

The key concept behind layering skincare is that each product should be applied in a specific order to allow optimal absorption and interaction with the skin. The order of application is generally based on the product’s consistency, with lighter products applied first and heavier products applied last.

  1. Start with a clean canvas: Before layering any skincare products, it is crucial to cleanse your face thoroughly. This step removes dirt, oil, and impurities, allowing the subsequent products to penetrate the skin.
  2. Follow the thinnest to thickest rule: When layering skincare, it is recommended to start with the thinnest, most water-like products and work your way up to the thickest, which allows each product to absorb properly without any interference.
  3. Incorporate serums: Serums are highly concentrated formulas that target specific skincare concerns. They are highly concentrated with ingredients that can absorb deeply into the skin. Apply serums after toner and before moisturizer to address concerns such as hydration, brightening, or anti-aging.
  4. Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize: Moisturizers are essential for providing hydration and sealing in all the previous layers of skincare. Choose a moisturizer that suits your skin type and concerns. Apply it after serums and eye cream to retain moisture and create a protective barrier.
  5. Protect with sunscreen: The final step in your skincare routine should be applying sunscreen, especially during the daytime. Sunscreen protects the skin from harmful UV rays and helps prevent premature aging and skin damage.

Seems logical, right?

Well… there might be a few other factors to consider.

The Challenges of Product Layering

While skincare product layering can offer numerous benefits, its effectiveness may vary depending on individual skin types, concerns, and product compatibility.

Overwhelming Complexity

One of the primary drawbacks of a multi-step skincare routine is its complexity. With numerous products and steps involved, remembering and performing the routine consistently can be challenging, making it difficult to maintain over an extended period.

Potential for Skin Reactivity

The abundance of products used in a complex routine increases the likelihood of inflammatory responses. Each product contains various active ingredients, and the combination of these can sometimes lead to adverse reactions such as redness, irritation, or even breakouts. For individuals with sensitive or reactive skin, this can be particularly problematic.

Overloading the Skin

By layering multiple products, a multi-step routine can overwhelm the skin. An overabundance of ingredients can inhibit the skin’s ability to absorb and benefit from the active ingredients in each product. Instead of providing desired results, this overload may lead to product buildup, clogged pores, and ineffective skincare.

Time-Consuming

Undoubtedly, a multi-step skincare routine demands a significant time commitment. Moreover, the pressure to follow such an extensive routine can cause unnecessary stress, further impacting overall well-being.

Financial Burden

Another factor to consider is the financial burden associated with a multi-step skincare routine. With a multitude of products involved, the cost can quickly add up. High-end brands and specialty products often come with a hefty price tag, making this routine inaccessible to many individuals.

It is important to conduct thorough research and consult with skin care professionals to determine the most suitable routine for your skin.

How Do I Layer Products Effectively?

Skin is complex. The primary reason we turn to product layering is that there might not be a single product that effectively addresses multiple unique issues. However, the strategy can fall apart when the different product ingredients interfere with one another. Here’s how to make sure your routine is effective.

Start Small

It’s important to note that while many skincare layering guidelines suggest using as many as 10 individual products, starting with a two or three-step routine might give you a better idea of which products yield the best results. Let’s say you start with a cleanser, exfoliating product, toner, serum, moisturizer, eye cream, oil, and sunscreen. If you achieve sub-optimal outcomes, you won’t be able to identify which products are working and which aren’t.

Determine your core issues when building your skincare system. Do you want to control acne? Combat dryness? Control oil? Hydrate? Do you have a dermatological issue that requires a prescription?

The foundational elements in any skincare routine are:

  • Cleanser
  • Moisturizer
  • Sunscreen

You can build a routine over a few weeks, which will help you recognize any changes to your skin’s appearance and texture.

Use Compatible Products

While exfoliants, toners, antioxidant serums, and retinol frequently appear in skincare routines, using products with incompatible ingredients can negate the effectiveness of the products and cause irritation. The best way to ensure your products aren’t working at cross purposes is to use a skincare system containing products specifically designed to support each other.

Dry Skin

Adding hydration back to your skin has never been easier. WestDerm offers a comprehensive system that works to soothe and repair dry and reactive skin. You’ll find everything you need in this bundle, from a soothing cleanser to hydrating serums to a replenishing cream to a powerful yet gentle sunscreen.  

Acne-Prone Skin

If you are susceptible to breakouts, finding a system that targets acne while being gentle enough for sensitive or reactive skin is critical. Combining proven anti-acne ingredients, WestDerm’s system helps unclog pores, minimize large pores and scarring, and promote healthy, clear skin.

Damaged/Aging Skin

Pollution, harsh environmental conditions, and sunlight combine to cause gradual skin aging every day, which poses a serious threat to youthful, healthy skin. These elements can cause fine lines, wrinkles, blemishes, and discoloration on the skin, but SkinCeuticals antioxidants and sunscreens offer potent, targeted protection.

To discover the best solution for your unique issues, consult a board-certified dermatologist for a comprehensive evaluation.

How to Prevent Common Skin Problems This Summer

Summer brings with it plenty of sunshine, outdoor activities, and a chance to relax and unwind. However, it also presents its own set of challenges when it comes to skincare. The hot weather, increased sun exposure, and humidity can lead to various skin problems. In this blog post, we will discuss some essential tips to help you prevent common skin problems and keep your skin healthy and glowing all summer long.

  • Protect Yourself from the Sun: One of the most critical steps in maintaining healthy skin during summer is sun protection. Excessive sun exposure can lead to sunburn, premature aging, and an increased risk of skin cancer. Here’s how you can protect yourself: Apply sunscreen: Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher and apply it generously to all exposed areas of your skin. Reapply every two hours, or more frequently if you’ve been swimming or sweating.
  • Seek shade: Avoid direct sun exposure during the peak hours of 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. If you’re out during this time, seek shade under an umbrella, tree, or wear protective clothing.
  • Wear protective clothing: Opt for lightweight, long-sleeved shirts, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses to shield your skin and eyes from harmful UV rays.
  • Stay Hydrated: Proper hydration is crucial for maintaining healthy skin throughout the summer. The hot weather and increased perspiration can cause dehydration, which can lead to dry, dull skin. Follow these tips to stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water: Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water per day. You can also include hydrating foods like watermelon, cucumbers, and citrus fruits in your diet.
  • Avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol: Both caffeine and alcohol can dehydrate your body, so it’s essential to consume them in moderation.
  • Cleanse and Moisturize: A consistent skincare routine is essential for combating common skin problems. Follow these steps for effective cleansing and moisturizing: Gentle cleansing: Cleanse your face twice a day using a mild, pH-balanced cleanser to remove dirt, sweat, and excess oil without stripping away natural moisture.
  • Moisturize adequately: Use a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, which helps retain moisture without feeling heavy on the skin.
  • Avoid Excessive Exfoliation: While exfoliation can help remove dead skin cells and unclog pores, overdoing it can irritate and damage your skin, especially during the summer. Stick to gentle exfoliation once or twice a week to maintain a healthy complexion without compromising your skin’s natural barrier.
  • Be Mindful of Chlorine and Saltwater Exposure: Swimming is a favorite summer activity, but chlorine and saltwater can be harsh on your skin. To minimize the negative effects: Rinse after swimming: Rinse off with fresh water immediately after swimming to remove chlorine or saltwater residue.
  • Moisturize after rinsing: Apply a moisturizer to replenish lost moisture and help restore your skin’s balance.
  • Pay Attention to Your Diet: A healthy diet plays a significant role in the appearance and health of your skin. Incorporate these skin-friendly foods into your summer meals: Antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables: Berries, leafy greens, and citrus fruits are packed with vitamins and antioxidants that help protect your skin from damage.
  • Omega-3 fatty acids: Include foods like salmon, walnuts, and flaxseeds in your diet as they promote healthy skin and reduce inflammation.

By following these simple yet effective tips, you can enjoy the summer season without compromising the health and beauty of your skin. Remember to protect yourself from the sun, stay hydrated, follow a consistent skincare routine, and maintain a healthy diet. With proper care and attention, you can prevent common skin problems and enjoy a radiant complexion throughout the summer.

How to Pick the Best Sunscreen ☀️💪

As summer temperatures rise and you spend more time outside, you’ll probably want to keep a tube of sunscreen or one of the newer sunscreen powders in your gym bag or glove compartment. If you pop into any makeup counter, drugstore, or grocery store, you’re likely to see at least a half-dozen sunscreen brands. While the ubiquity of sunscreen makes it easy to stay sun-safe, the variety of options makes it hard to choose!
That’s why we’re going over the sunscreen basics and listing some of our favorite formulas. With this handy email, you can figure out what works best for you and avoid getting burned.
First things first: There are two main types of sunscreen. Physical sunscreens deflect sunlight with the active ingredients titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. The old versions used to feel thick and sometimes leave a white cast on the skin. Newer versions of microniadized zinc and titanium feel great, are not thick and do not leave a white sheen on your skin.
Chemical sunscreens, on the other hand, use chemicals like avobenzone and oxybenzone to absorb UV rays and make them less harmful. These formulas blend invisibly into skin. The drawback is that the chemicals in sunscreen may be absorbed in minute quantities when applied in large amounts every 2 hours. This has recently gotten some bad press but there’s no conclusive proof that they’re harmful. Still, pregnant women, young children, and cautious types may want to go for physical sunscreen.
If you already know which type of sunscreen you prefer, you may be wondering: Which brand is the best? We’re glad you asked!
> For your face and body, try ISDIN- Eryfotona Actinica SPF 50, a fast-absorbing sunscreen that feels smooth on the skin it absorbs quickly, layers well under makeup, doesn’t smell like SPF, is made with antioxidant-rich vitamin E, as well as an ingredient that helps repair previous sun damage.
> We also love ISDIN’s Eryfotona Actinica SPF 50 for your face, or Total Defense and Repair from SkinMedica.
> For your lips, EltaMD’s UV Lip Balm Broad-Spectrum SPF 31 neutralizes free radicals with antioxidants and offers both physical and chemical sun protection.
> For on-the-go, grab an ISDIN Mineral Brush, your solution to reapplying SPF at 2 p.m. without messing up your mascara.
> For when you’re exercising or going swimming, make sure you reapply even a”waterproof”sunscreen every two hours
Whichever sunscreen you choose, remember to use it in conjunction with other sun-safety measures, like wearing protective clothing and scheduling an annual skin check with a board-certified dermatologist. As always, get in touch with us if you have any questions. We hope you get outside and enjoy healthy, comfortable skin all summer long!

How to Keep Your Skin Sun Safe this Summer ☀️

This beautiful, warm weather has everybody outside enjoying their favorite activity. There’s so much fun to be had, but we want to remind you that your skin can easily get damaged this time of year. Whether you’re going for a dip in a pool, hiking, or just outside soaking up the sun, it’s important to make sure that your skin health remains a top priority. The great thing about it is that all of these tips are easy enough to implement in any summer activity.
Sun Safe Skincare Tips
Seek shade: When possible, sit in the shade as much as you can. Some activities such as swimming or hiking will require you to take regular breaks to get out of the direct sunlight. Be extra careful to avoid direct sunlight during the peak hours of 10 AM-4 PM.
Cover your skin: It’s important to wear proper clothing when you’re outside. This means investing in lightweight clothing (avoiding dark colors if possible), clothing with UV protection, hats, and sunglasses.
Consider advice from Dr. Mitchel Goldman, MD and West Dermatology Medical Director. He says, “Whenever I know I will be enjoying the outdoors, on a bicycle or hiking, I always wear SPF clothing with full arm covers, wear Isdin Erythrophotona sunscreen on exposed areas and take a Sunisdin supplement.”
Wear sunscreen: Everybody should wear sunscreen, even on overcast days. Don’t forget to reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating. It’s a good idea to make sunscreen application part of your daily routine.
Dr. Jessica Riley, DO, adds, “I apply EltaMD UV Clear sunscreen in the morning. It goes on very elegantly and also has niacinamide in it, which helps to calm acne-prone skin. I also make sure to reapply every two hours if I’m going to be in the sun. The easiest way to do this is with the Isdin Mineral Brush. It goes on effortlessly and easily over my makeup.
Avoid tanning beds: It may be tempting to get a golden tan from a tanning bed, but know that this is not safe for your skin. Not only can it cause skin damage, but it could also lead to skin cancer. Protect your skin by avoiding tanning beds or overexposure from direct sunlight.
Wash your face: More sunlight usually means more sweating. Make sure you keep your face clean so that there isn’t a buildup of oil or dirt.
Continue skin checks: Don’t forget to continue regular skin checks. Take care to make a note of any skin changes and report those changes to your doctor right away.
Take care of your skin throughout the summer months. Don’t forget to apply sunscreen, wear proper clothing, and keep out of the direct sunlight whenever possible. For your skincare needs, schedule an appointment with us! We look forward to educating you about skincare to keep you healthy all year long!

Summer Sun-Safe Tips ☀️

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

Celebrate Beautiful in Your Skin Month by Learning Your Skin Type!

“Beautiful in Your Skin Month” is a fantastic time to focus on the health and beauty of your largest and most radiant organ. However, it’s important to recognize your own skin’s unique qualities to fully appreciate its awesomeness. Learn how to stay beautiful in your skin this summer and throughout the year!

Did you know June is officially “Beautiful in Your Skin” month?

Summer is practically here, so it’s a great time to adopt healthy skin care habits, such as wearing sunscreen, staying hydrated, gentle cleansing, and scheduling regular visits to the dermatologist. It’s also time to embrace the beauty of our beautiful and unique skin types. Here’s how loving your skin type can keep your skin beautiful in any season and at any age!

What is Beautiful in Your Skin Month?

How often do you think about the health and integrity of your skin? Of course, we notice our skin when there are aesthetic changes like acne, rashes, wrinkles, or problematic growths. However, we don’t necessarily think about what the changes mean about our overall health.

Your skin is your body’s largest organ. It’s your first defense against harmful elements; it shields your internal organs from pollutants, ultraviolet radiation, traumatic injury, thermal injury, and microbes. Moreover, it regulates your internal temperature and prevents the loss of fluids.

In short, skin is irreplaceable. It deserves all our love and respect!

Beautiful in Your Skin Month is an awareness initiative launched to help people appreciate the vital importance of skin health by recognizing the diversity of skin textures, types, and shades. Everyone is different, and every skincare routine should be tailored to those unique differences.

In addition to promoting healthy skin care habits, Beautiful in Your Skin Month also provides an opportunity to celebrate diversity and inclusivity. The initiative encourages people to embrace their unique skin tones and textures rather than feeling pressured to conform to unrealistic and continually changing beauty standards.

What is my Skin Type?

The American Academy of Dermatology recognizes five skin types:

  • Dry skin. Dry skin, or xerosis, occurs when the skin loses its natural moisture and becomes tight, rough, and flaky. Lack of moisture can lead to itching, scaling, cracking, and even bleeding in severe cases.
  • Combination skin. Combination skin is a common skin type characterized by having both oily and dry areas on the face. This condition causes parts of the face, such as the T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin), to be oily, while others may be dry.
  • Oily skin. Sebum is a natural oil produced by the sebaceous glands located in the skin’s pores. When these glands produce too much sebum, the skin appears shiny and greasy.  
  • Sensitive skin. Sensitive skin refers to a condition where the skin is more reactive than normal skin, meaning it is more prone to irritation, itching, and other uncomfortable sensations. Irritants like certain chemicals, fragrances, and cosmetics exacerbate the condition. It is most commonly found on the face, neck, and hands.
  • Normal skin. Normal skin is characterized by a smooth and even texture and a healthy and clear appearance. It is neither oily nor dry, with small pores.

While most people’s skin falls under one of these five categories, there are also numerous additional qualities that affect the appearance, comfort, and health of our skin. Though traditional skin type classification is easily understandable and accessible, it doesn’t address the full scope of skin types, which can include the following:

  • Melanin-rich skin
  • Sun-damaged/environmentally damaged skin
  • Aging skin
  • Thinning skin
  • Tattooed skin

Moreover, facial and body hair can significantly affect the texture and clarity of our skin.

The best way to determine the most effective skincare routine for your skin type is by consulting a dermatologist and undergoing a comprehensive evaluation of your skin.

How a Dermatologist Can Help You Discover Your Skin Type

Consulting a dermatologist for a skincare routine is essential for maintaining healthy skin.

A dermatologist can help determine the right skincare routine for your unique skin type and concerns. For example, did you know that lower ceramide levels is common in darker skin tones?

Dermatologists have specialized training in diagnosing and treating various skin conditions, including acne, eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea. They can also identify any underlying skin issues contributing to your skin concerns.

A dermatologist can recommend skincare products and prescription medications that address your individual skin type. Dermatologists can also design a customized skincare routine that addresses your needs.

Consulting a dermatologist for an appropriate skincare regimen is especially important if you have sensitive skin or are prone to allergies. They can help identify any ingredients in skincare products that may be causing irritation or allergic reactions.

Stay Beautiful in Your Skin!

Visiting a dermatologist during Beautiful in Your Skin Month will empower you with the information and support you need to keep your skin healthy and radiant. Please visit our information page to find a dermatology clinic near you.

Let’s”Clear Up”Some Acne Myths

“Bunk” is a slang term for nonsense, and in honor of June Acne Awareness Month, let’s debunk the nonsense of acne myths and aim for blemish-free skin.
Myth #1 Tanning Clears Up Acne
We’re calling “bunk” on this myth. The sun’s UV rays do nothing to zap acne. Instead, your skin dries out, inflames, produces more oil, and gets worse. It may feel at first like the sun is drying your acne, but it’s not healing it. We know this because we see tanned people all the time who still have acne. Plus, sun exposure increases your risk of developing melanoma and other skin cancers.
Myth #2 Dairy Causes Acne
We’ve all heard that dairy causes acne, but this is definitely a myth. There’s been some speculation that an increase in insulin growth factor-1 leads to acne because it activates sebum production and that milk proteins inflame acne. The truth is that no scientific study yet has been strong enough to prove a correlation between dairy and acne.
Myth #3 Acne is Just a Teen Issue
Millions of adults who suffer from acne will tell you that it’s not just a teen issue. Yes, a whopping 85% of teens get some form of acne at some point. But just because the teenage years are over doesn’t mean acne ends too. 30% of adults ages 20-60, and beyond, deal with acne. It’s the most common skin disease. And it’s possible for women who had pretty clear skin as a teen to develop acne later in life.
Myth #4 Acne Will Clear Up Fast If You Scrub Your Skin
You can’t scrub away acne, and trying will actually make it worse. It’s true that all pimples begin with a clogged pore, and because acne can start forming several weeks before it appears, it makes sense to keep pores clear. A good acne-prevention routine includes using retinol for quicker skin turnover, washing your face before bed, and using non pore-clogging products. But once acne appears, scrubbing is a no-no. Instead, wash your face gently twice a day with a mild cleanser.
Myth #5 You Don’t Need to Treat Acne
Some people say acne will eventually go away on its own, so you don’t need to treat it. This is a myth because true acne is a chronic skin condition. If left untreated, it can damage your skin (and self-esteem) along the way. Acne is something that needs to be managed, and our dermatologists can help.
Dermatologists are up-to-date with all the latest breakthroughs for breakouts. They can clear almost any acne issue. The problem is that people often don’t ask for professional help. Instead, some people resort to home treatments that can do more harm than good, like dabbing toothpaste on acne to try to dry it up. Household products are not necessarily safe on the skin, and the fluorides in toothpaste can make acne worse. Leave all the guesswork up to the professionals and let us answer any questions you have.
Book your appointment today for personalized skincare advice to address your acne concerns. One of our board-certified dermatologists would be happy to see you!