Newsletter #7 / Spring-Summer 2014

“Welcome to the Spring / Summer 2014 issue of our quarterly newsletter, filled with all the news that will help you keep your skin  looking and feeling healthy and beautiful on an ongoing basis.”
--Dr. Michele Grodberg

SUN PROTECTION—SEPARATING FACT FROM FICTION

You’ve probably heard much conflicting advice about sun protection. Tanning (or not) is top of mind during the summer months. Especially since Melanoma, which accounts for less than five percent of skin cancer cases, but the vast majority of skin cancer caused deaths, is on the rise. In fact, about 86 percent of Melanomas can be attributed to exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. An estimated 76,100 new cases of invasive melanoma will be diagnosed in the US in 2014 and 1 in 50 men and women will be diagnosed with melanoma of the skin during their lifetime.

Let me help you separate the facts from fiction on this important issue.

FICTION: The sunscreen in your moisturizer or makeup is enough to block sun’s rays.

FACT: Unfortunately the sunscreen in makeup or moisturizer is not enough. Often the application of the product is too sheer to be effective and the formulation itself may not cover both UVA and UVB rays.  You need to add a daily sunscreen with broad-spectrum coverage and an SPF of at least 30 under your makeup and your moisturizer.

FACT: While it is essential, sunscreen can’t completely block all rays. You have to practice common sense. Some ideas: Staying in the shade between 10 AM and 2 PM when rays are strongest; wearing clothing with UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) labels; covering your head with a wide-brimmed hat; and wearing UV-blocking sunglasses and clothing: Clothing that is dark or bright in a thick tightly woven fabric will be more protective than sheer, loose knit, light-colored items.

FACT: While initially this might sound like a good idea, it ultimately can cause more clogged pores and breakouts as your tan fades. Select a sunscreen for your face that is specifically formulated for the face.

FACT: Sunscreen has to be reapplied every 2 hours if you are exposed to the sun for long periods. I find sprays, like our Sun Shield Sheer Effect Spray, great for reapplication on the go. Also, be vigilant about the type of sunscreen you choose when going to the beach or pool. New FDA guidelines prevent companies from labeling sunscreens as waterproof, so select one labeled “water resistant 40 or 80 minutes” and apply 30 minutes before going outside and reapply every two hours and after swimming or sweating.

FACT: All skin types need sun protection—even dark skin—and tanned skin means the ultraviolet rays have reached the skin and triggered a response that also raises your risk of skin cancer. People with naturally dark skin may have a lower risk of skin cancer than those with fair skin, but they are still at risk. And unfortunately, the cancer often is not detected until it has reached advanced and more dangerous stages.

FYI: Be generous with your product application. If your bottle of sunscreen lasts for more than one season, you are probably not using enough. For more information or to set up a consultation, please call 201.567.8884. 

THE BIG DEAL

Imagine wearing the most effective sun protection product there is—zinc oxide—without the white mess. MGMD™ SUN SHIELD SHEER EFFECT CREAM and are both zinc oxide-based sunscreens with SPF 50+ protection. Zinc oxide is a physical sunblock and both Sheer Effect Cream and Spray contain no chemical sunscreens. The Cream is 13.75% zinc oxide and the Spray, 12%. Both are fortified with Resveratrol and other antioxidants, so skin is shielded from both UVA and UVB rays and protected from their damaging effects and are easy to apply to any exposed skin.

Regular Price: $68 LESS 20%

Your price: $54.40

Discount code: summer14
Expires 8/31/14

 SPRING / SUMMER CHECKLIST

√ Add a toner to remove superficial surface oil and dead skin cells.

√ Apply sunscreen before going outdoors to all bare skin. Remember those easy- to-forget spots like your ears, the tops of your feet, and the V of your upper chest.

√ Switch to a lighter-weight facial moisturizer, both day and night.

√ Increase face and body exfoliation to twice a week.

√ Schedule a body check by your dermatologist during the summer (at that time we can also discuss skin rejuvenation techniques for fall).

Also in THE RX: MGMD'S BLOG