July 2024 newsletter

July 2024 newsletter

The July newsletter focuses on UV Safety Awareness Month and how we can continue to spread the word on sun safety and the importance of sunscreen and other protective measures.

Why summer is a good time for skin checks

Summer is a good time for self-skin checks. Skin is exposed to the sun more as you wear shorts and t-shirts and participate in more outdoor activities. It’s also easier for you to notice any skin changes, skin tags, or warts. It is key for diagnosing skin cancer early.

Self-skin checks should be done routinely and not just in the summer months, along with an annual skin check by your skin specialist.

Don’t wait for a warning sign. Your skin is your body’s largest organ–give it the care and attention it deserves. A skin check is a good investment for long term results.

woman applying blush on

Does your SPF makeup provide enough protection?

Choosing and wearing makeup with SPF can provide some sun protection, but it’s not enough for full coverage. Makeup with SPF typically contains a lower SPF rating and is often applied too thinly to offer the level of protection recommended by dermatologists. For adequate sun protection, layering additional sunscreen underneath your makeup is essential.

Can medications increase your skin’s sun sensitivity?

Many medications can affect and increase your skin’s sensitivity to the sun. Understanding these effects is important to avoid unwanted skin reactions and maintain overall skin health. Be sure to read about the side effects for each of your individual medications or consult with your pharmacist. Read more.

Understanding the UV index

You may hear meteorologists refer to the UV index during their weather reports. What is it? It is a guideline for the potential risks of sun exposure. It measures the strength of ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun at a particular place and time, helping you gauge the likelihood of skin damage. Don’t forget that sunscreen is still needed on cloudy days too when it is 80% possible for UV rays to still penetrate through the clouds.

Read more about the effectiveness of beach umbrellas and SPF clothing.

Is skin cancer genetic?

Are there genetic factors that increase your chances of skin cancer? A genetic component may exist, but is not a sole factor. Skin type, ethnicity, environmental and lifestyle factors all play into your risk as well. Read more about other key factors.

Other news

Our July newsletter features highlights of the month. Please read all of our practice news on our website.