Does your Suit Protect You?

It is that time of year where retailers are starting to stock the shelves with the dreaded BATHING SUIT  From the trendy vintage one piece to the tiny bikini they can make even those with the fittest bodies feel uncomfortable. Other than hiding your less favorable features what do you look for in swimwear?

Most women (and men) do not know that most swimwear material is not UV Protected. When we head to the pool or the beach and do our duties of lathering on sun block to all the ‘exposed’ areas we are leaving out some of the most delicate and, actually, exposed parts of our skin- those under the suits!

In general bathing suits and clothing alike aren’t protection from UV Rays.  When buying swim wear or beach attire look for those with an ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) as high as 50. If you can’t find clothes with UPF, we recommend wearing tightly woven, dark-colored fabrics. You’ll be surprised when inspecting the tags of your favorite bikinis or cover-ups that they offer little to no protection from the sun.

In addition to looking for sun protected clothing/swimwear we suggest applying sun block to your ENTIRE body before dressing for a day in the sun. You’re most sensitive areas deserve as much TLC from damaging rays as the rest.  Also, when planning your summer fun make sure to stay hydrated, wear sunglasses, hats to protected your face and scalp and stay near shaded areas to retire to in the hottest times of the day (10am-4pm).

Even with all the awareness of skin cancer and sun damage the numbers are increasing- take your first steps in not becoming a statistic. 
Fun Facts: Technology and Swimwear?
Some designers are also on the brink of developing a ‘Smart Bikini’. A new swimsuit was developed in Canada to provide protection from “post-tan” problems by warning of excess UV light. The suits look like regular bikinis decorated with beads of plastic that can change their color depending on the intensity of UV emission. Exposed to low or medium emission, the beads are of white or lavender color. Abnormal rate of UV emission makes the beads glow deep violet, alarmingly indicating that tanning should be ceased.   This swimsuit is available this month! Check it out at Solestrom. There is also one already on the market by Solestrom that has a LED UV meter built into the belt, which also shows if it’s time to stop sunbathing. The LED UV meter is solar powered.  What will we see next?!
As always the best preventative measure is abstinence. Staying out of the most harmful rays of the sun, wearing sunscreen each day and getting checked regularly. If you know you will be exposed to the sun we want you to be protected the best you can! 

Hot Tips For The Best Results from Your Age-Fighting Products

We love the results we are seeing on those who are using the Germain Rx product line. Designed exclusively for the needs of Dr. Germain’s patients, the line includes cleansers, sunscreens, body and anti-aging products you will love.  We’d love to have you consult with us on the best skin care and anti-aging routine for your skin.  We understand you may be using and enjoying some other products as well.  In any case, we have a few hot tips on how to get the absolute best results from your anti-aging products.


Find The Right Blend of Products

Using too many products and anti-aging ingredients on your skin can be irritating and make the signs of aging more noticeable. For best results overall, consult with a dermatologist or aesthetician who can properly evaluate your skin to ensure you have an effective and safe routine to bring out your skin’s radiance.
Give The Product Time to Work
Despite some claims, most age-fighting products do not work overnight. While a moisturizer can plump up fine lines in a few days, most products take at least six weeks to work and give optimum results.
Use The Product As Directed
Some products contain active ingredients which are too harsh or do not work as well if too much is utilized.  Applying more than directed can cause clogged pores, a blotchy complexion, or other unwanted effects. 
 
Avoid Products That Sting
Tingling, stinging, or burning do not mean the active ingredients are working – it often means the product is irritating to your skin.  Note: Some products prescribed by a dermatologist may cause stinging or burning. In fact, to get more noticeable results, the skin may be injured in order to reveal fresher, more youthful skin. When supervised by a dermatologist, this can be safe and effective. Pain and stinging should not occur if using an over-the-counter product. 

Continue Using, If You Want to Continue Seeing Results
People often believe that once they get the results they want, they can stop using the product.  To continue seeing results, you must continue using the product. 
 
Do Not Tan
Tanning from the sun, a tanning bed, or sun lamp exposes you to harmful UV rays, which can accelerate aging by causing wrinkles, age spots, and a blotchy complexion.  Tanning while using products with anti-aging ingredients can aggravate and damage the skin.  Sunscreen is essential to prevent damage from the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays.  Use a sunscreen with broad-spectrum (UVA and UVB protection) coverage with a minimum SPF 30.
Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize
Along with wearing sunscreen, we cannot emphasize this enough.  A good moisturizer traps water in the skin, which can help reduce the appearance of some fine lines (not deep lines), making your complexion look brighter and younger.
A little attention to a few small details can make all the difference when showing off your beautiful skin!  To consult with Dr Germain for your best age-fighting skin routine, please call us at (843) 881-4440.
Sources:  American Association of Dermatology, National Institute of Health, and the FDA

Sunscreen STAT!

We’re lucky to live in the beautiful Carolinas, from the beaches to the lakes, there’s always great things to do outside. But before you head into the summer sun, it’s important that you pay attention to your skin. Skin cancer is the most common form of all cancers and it accounts for nearly half of all cancers in the US. More than 2 million cases of non-melanoma skin cancer are found in this country each year. Now we know you can’t stay cooped up inside on these gorgeous Carolina days, but it’s important to practice sun safety. Here’s some helpful tips to know before you head outside:
Germain Rx Anti-Aging Sunscreen SPF 45
-The sun’s rays are the strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. so avoid the sun at these times if possible.  
-If you do venture out during those hours, be sure to cover up with long-sleeved shirts and pants. There’s a variety of wide-brimmed hats that look very fashionable if you’re on the beach or lake.  Use a beach umbrella and wear sunglasses with UV protection. 
-A lifetime of sun exposure can cause wrinkles, freckles, age spots and rough, dry skin so when you are outside, seek shade. Practice the shadow rule and teach it to children. If your shadow is shorter than you, the sun’s rays are at their strongest.
Germain Rx Ultra-Protect Sunscreen SPF 30 
-Use sunscreen that’s SPF 30 or higher when you’re in the sun. Apply generous amounts of broad-spectrum sunscreen with physical block at least 30 minutes before going outdoors and reapply every two hours, especially after heavy sweating or after being in the water. 
-If you are near water or sand, use extra caution as they reflect the damaging rays of the sun and can increase your chance for sunburn. 
Want to purchase some Germain Rx sunscreen? It’s Easy! You can shop 24 hours at day at www.germaindermatology.com 
If you notice any changes in your skin, make an appointment with Dr. Germain or Holly Carter, our Dermatology PA.