Yes, by this time everyone knows to wear sunscreen and and a hat and stay out of the sun. We’ve heard the mantra for decades. But do you know that different skin types have different precautions one should take as it relates to the sun. Los Angeles Dermatologist, Gene Rubinstein, M. D. offers some unconventional wisdom you may not have heard of.
Olive and other darker skin typed individuals may think that they have a higher tolerance to the sun. Even though in theory that may be true, olive-skinned people have their own set of precautions.
- Melasma, a pigmentation of the skin in a mask like form is a common condition of darker skinned individuals. The sun plays the biggest role in its appearance. Physical sunblock containing a combination of zinc oxide and titanium dioxide is best. For women with pigmentation under the eyes I recommend large plastic-rimmed sunglasses with wide temple covers. For forehead pigmentation, a hat is a required accessory.
- Beer and margaritas by the pool are great, but did you know that spilling lime on your skin, combined with the effects of he sun can leave a pigmentation that can last up to 6 months. So clean the skin quickly and before sun exposure after tequila shots.
- Rash guards are not just the latest fashion statement on the beach. Covering up is the best way to protect you and your kids from prolonged sun exposure. most rash guards are made with SPF material and play an important role in sun protection. That being said, even a white t-shirt helps protect the skin from the harmful rays of the sun. Long term daily exposure adds up over the years, especially in warmer climates.
- Did you forget anything? Areas such as the ears, the back of the neck and the chest are often forgotten. Wearing a t-shirt? Put sunscreen on the neck and ears and let it dry before putting on your clothes, this helps keep the shirt collars clean. One more forgotten body part is you toes. With flip-flops being our most common summer footwear, toes get lots of unwanted sun.
- Tinted sunscreens are the latest craze. For women, tinted moisturizer with sunscreen help replace your moisturizer, sunscreen and light foundation which is great for daily use year round. For men, tinted sunscreens do not add color to the skin, but blend the white residue often associated with sunscreen use.
- Dr. Rubinstein recommends keeping your sunscreen next to your toothbrush. “For men and women, putting on sunscreen in the morning should be your daily routine year round.”
Cosmetic effects of the sun on the skin may be improved by various procedures including lasers, masks and peels especially designed for darker skinned individuals. Visit www.LASkinMD.com to learn more about options that may be available for you.
