This article will focus on helping you understand what sunblock is, why it’s essential, if you’re using it the right way, how much you should be applying, and all the different questions that could be roaming your mind regarding sunblock and its usage.

Overview

Sunblock is one of the best ways to protect yourself from skin cancer and the damage of sunlight. The most damaging waves that reach the surface of the earth are ultraviolet waves, which are responsible for sunburns, photoaging, and the increased risk of getting skin cancer.

UV radiation from the sun includes two types of harmful rays:

• Ultraviolet A (UVA) Rays: Most common; cause premature aging of the skin like wrinkles.
• Ultraviolet B (UVB) Rays: Most dangerous; cause sunburns and skin cancer.

Too much exposure to both types of rays can cause skin cancer. Usually, sunscreens that are labeled as “broad spectrum” can help protect your skin against the effects of both UVA and UVB rays.

Types of Sunblock

There are two types of sunblock, those include:

1. Chemical sunblock.
2. Physical (mineral) sunblock.

Chemical Sunblock

This type of sunblock is absorbed into your skin and sits in the deeper layers. The sunblock absorbs the UV rays and changes them into heat, and after that, it releases the heat from the skin.

This type of sunblock is not an idea because UV rays must penetrate the skin to reach these chemicals. The chemical sunblock might not protect against all UVA rays, which will cause damage to the deeper layers of the skin.

Usually, the chemical sunblock takes around 20 minutes to start working, so plan your sunblock application accordingly. Moreover, direct sunlight causes the chemicals to be used up quicker; this is why re-application must be more frequent when you’re exposed to direct sunlight. The heat-releasing nature of chemical sunblock can be problematic for sensitive, rosacea-prone skin, and individuals with hyperpigmentation. This is because heated skin can cause an increase in existing brown spots. Moreover, chemical sunblock can also clog pores which is problematic for acne-prone skin.

Physical (Mineral) Sunblock

Physical sunblock sits on top of the skin’s surface, and acts as a physical blocker by deflecting and scattering UV rays from the skin like a mirror. Mineral (physical) sunblock can protect against both UVA and UVB because it blocks UV rays at the surface level, which means no rays can penetrate the skin and harm it.

Because physical sunblock creates a physical barrier on top of the skin, it is effective as soon as it is applied, so you do not need to wait for it to start working. Physical sunblock has a whitish tone to it and is visible on the skin when applied. However, because this type of sunblock sits on top of the skin’s surface, it can be rubbed, sweated, or rinsed off easily, which makes it essential for you to frequently reapply it.

You need to generously apply physical sunblock to ensure protection. Mineral sunblock contains active ingredients like titanium dioxide and zinc dioxide or a combination of the two. Therefore, this type of sunblock should not be inhaled, so try to avoid spray and powder formulations to minimize lung exposure.

What Is Sun Protector Factor (SPF)?

Sun protection factor, or what’s commonly referred to as SPF, is an equation that determines the level of sunburn protection that the sunblock provides. SPF is calculated by an equation that has a logarithmic relationship with the amount of radiation it can filter. For example, SPF 30 filters 96.7% of the UV radiation, meanwhile SPF 50 filters 98% of the UV radiation. Dermatologists recommend that you use any sunblock of SPF 30 or higher to get the best protection.

How Do I Know If My Sunblock Protects My Skin from UVA, UVB, or Both?

A good sunblock should be able to protect your skin from both. SPF usually protects your skin from UVB. Look for a sunblock that has a “broad spectrum” written on it because this means that it also protects your skin against UVA too.

How Much Product Do I Need to Apply?

Sunblock can only give proper protection from the sun if the appropriate amount is applied. The adequate amount is 2 mg/cm^2. The proper amount to be applied to the face and neck is 2.5 fingertip units.

How Often Do I Need to Apply Sunblock?

You must reapply sunblock every 2 hours or immediately after swimming, washing your face, or sweating. If you’re using a physical sunblock, it is easier for it to wear off since it sits on the top of the surface of the skin, so you need to remember to reapply it frequently.

What Type of Sunblock Is Best for Me (Cream, Lotion, Emulsion, or Spray)?

If you have oily skin, it is better to use sunblock in the form of emulsion or lotion with a mat finish. If you have dry skin, it is better that you use creams. As for babies, swimming sprays can be used as it is easy to apply to the body. If you’re applying sunblock after putting makeup on, use a sunblock brush as it will apply to your skin in the form of powder.

When Should I Use Sunblock?

You should use sunblock every day, indoor and outdoor. And you should apply it during all seasons, even in winter. A lot of people think it is okay not to apply sunblock during winter since it is less sunny; however, the sun is still out, and your skin is still exposed to UVB and UVA light. So, make sure you’re correctly applying sunblock even in cold weather.

Does Regular Use of Sunblock Affect Vitamin D Levels?

Yes, if a person uses sunblock all over their body while altogether avoiding the sun, it might lead to vitamin D deficiency. However, if one exposes their body to the sun during the early hours of the morning, or late hours of the evening, at least 3 times per week, it will be enough for the body to absorb vitamin D without causing skin damage.

Is Sunblock Effective While Swimming?

If the label of the sunblock mentions that it is water-resistant for 40 to 80 minutes, then yes, the application of sunblock while swimming is effective.

Overall Sun Protection Instructions

Here are some of the tips that the doctor recommends to have the best protection from sun rays:

• Try to avoid sunlight between the hours of 10 AM to 4 PM.
• Make sure that you regularly use sunblock.
• Remember to reapply sunblock every 2 hours and after swimming or excessive sweating.
• Try to wear protective clothing with long sleeves and hats to protect your body from sunlight.

Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Sunblock (FAQs)

This section sheds light on the most commonly and frequently asked questions about sunblock and its uses.

What are the differences between UVA and UVB?

Both UVA and UVN are in the ultraviolet light class. However, there are several significant differences between the two. UVB is the sunrays responsible for tanning and sunburn, and they do not penetrate deep into the skin. Meanwhile, UVA is responsible for the premature aging of the skin because it penetrates deep into the skin.

Which sunscreen to choose?

With hundreds of names in the market, it is almost impossible to set your mind on the best sunscreen to buy. However, there are three critical factors that you can look out for to make sure that you’re purchasing the best sunblock for you; SPF, format, and whether it is conventional or organic.

• Conventional or organic: Both are equally effective; however, this depends on your preference and belief. Although, we can say that organic sunblock has better benefits for your skin and acts immediately when applied.
• SPF: This depends on the level of exposure to the sun and your skin type. Lighter skins tend to need a higher SPF. The stronger the SPF, the more protection it provides.
• Format: This depends on your skin type and preference. If your skin is oily, it is better that you use an emulsion or lotion sunblock that has a mat finish. If your skin is dry, apply a cream lotion. As for babies and younger kids, it is better to use spray sunblock as it is easier to apply.

Does sunblock prevent tanning?

Although sunblock is effective, it cannot 100% block ultraviolet rays.

The post Everything You Need to Know About Sunblock appeared first on Dr. Maha Marji.

Overview

Studies show that almost 95% of people do not use enough products when using topical creams. This is why the products might not be working for you too. However, there are certain guidelines that we will help you through in this article so that you can get the best results out of your skincare products.

Topical skincare product amounts can be measured using fingertip units (FTUs), grams, ounces, or teaspoon measurements. In this article, we will further explain how much skincare product to use on the face using fingertip units (FTUs).

It is essential to understand that the measurements that will be described throughout this article are used to determine how many topical creams to us, such as sunscreen, anti-aging products, steroid cream, moisturizer, antioxidant cream, melasma or rosacea medication, and other facial skin care creams that you apply on the face. However, this does not include the amount of retinoid or acne cream you should apply. In order to know how much of these products to use, you need to consult your doctor because the amount applied to these products differs by your skin type and what stage in your treatment plan you are.

What Is a Fingertip Unit (FTU)?

A fingertip is a measurement unit that can be known using a tube with a standard-sized 5-millimeter nozzle and an adult’s hand. To determine how much product to use, you need to squeeze the product out of the tube so that it covers the area between the first crease or joint on your index finger and your fingertip.

How Much Skincare Product Should I Apply to My Face?

To achieve healthier skin, you need to apply the proper amount of skincare to your face. See the measurements suggested here and compare them with the ones you’re using now. If you’re not using your products at this rate, then you might be using less than you should be.

When you’re applying cream to your face, you need to use 1.0 FTUs, which equals 1.2 grams, to cover the entire face. If you want to cover the front of your neck and décolleté, you will need another 1 FTU, which equals 1.2 grams. As for the back of your neck, you need to apply another ½ FTU, which equals 0.6 grams, to cover it entirely.

How Long Should Facial Skincare Products Last?

If you are using your skincare products correctly, you should notice that they run out within the same time period every time. For 30 days, you need to be applying the cream on your face at least once per day; this way, you would need 1.2 ounces of cream per month.

This means that a 1-ounce tube of your face cream should last at least once a month. However, if you apply your face cream twice per day, you would need around 2.4 ounces in a month, so for 30 days, you would need 75 grams of face cream.

Following up with these numbers and measurements can help you determine whether or not you’re using enough skincare product amount on your face. It is recommended that patients renew their facial skincare products monthly as needed.

How Much Sunblock Should I Use on My Face?

The amount of sunscreen you should use depends on the form of sunscreen that you have, a gel, lotion, spray, or cream. This section will help you know the best amount of cream sunblock to use. You need to apply 2mg of SPF per every 2 square centimeters of your face, or 2.5 fingertip units. If you apply less, then the SPF will be less than that listed on the label.

If your tube of sunblock is around 30 grams, you need one tube every 25 days if you apply sunblock once per day on your face. However, if you’re spending time outdoors, remember that you need to reapply sunblock every 2 hours. If you’re going swimming, you will need to apply more often and frequently, especially if your sunblock is not water-resistant.

Conclusion

Make sure that you are using the proper amount of facial skincare creams on your face. If you are not using enough products, you might not be getting the maximum benefit. Try to follow the measurements mentioned above, and hopefully, you’ll start noticing the difference that your skincare product is making.

The post How Much Cream Should You Apply? appeared first on Dr. Maha Marji.

Why It’s Important to Know Your Skin Type

Because when you figure out your skin type, it becomes easier for you to choose your skincare routine products, you can know the risks of dermatological problems you might have, and how to protect your skin. In addition, it can help the doctor determine your settings for many procedures done at the clinic.

One of the best classifications for skin types is the Fitzpatrick classification. The Fitzpatrick skin type is a scientific skin type classification which describes a way to classify the skin by its reaction to exposure to sunlight, and the amount of pigment (melanin cells) in the skin.

What Are the Different Skin Types According to Fitzpatrick?

This classification might help you determine what skin type you are, and therefore, how you should treat and take care of your skin. If you don’t meet all of the characteristics of any type, go with the one that best describes you. The Fitzpatrick scale categorizes skin types from 1 to 6.

Fitzpatrick skin type 1

People who have skin type 1 have very light skin, colored eyes, red or blonde hair. As for the skin’s reaction to sun exposure, it would always freckle, burn and peel, and it can never tan.

Fitzpatrick skin type 2

Skin type number 2 people usually have fair or pale skin. Their eye colors are usually blue, gray, or green. Moreover, their natural hair color is often blonde. As for their skin’s reaction to sun exposure, it usually freckles, burns and peels, and rarely tans.

Fitzpatrick skin type 3

People whose skin falls under skin type 3 usually have fair to beige. Their eye color would usually be hazel or light brown. As for their hair color, it is often dark blonde, or light brown. Their skin’s reaction to sunlight exposure is that it doesn’t really freckle, it burns rarely, and tans often.

Fitzpatrick skin type 4

Skin type 4 people would usually have olive or light brown colored skin before sun exposure. Their eye color is usually dark brown, and their natural hair color is dark brown. As for their skin’s reaction to sunlight, it usually doesn’t freckle, it rarely burns, and it often tans.

Fitzpatrick skin type 5

People who belong to Fitzpatrick skin type 5 would usually have dark brown skin color before sunlight exposure. Their eye color is dark brown to black. Their natural hair color is usually dark brown to black. When exposed to sunlight, it almost never burns, and it always tans.

Fitzpatrick skin type 6

This Fitzpatrick skin type is usually deeply pigmented dark brown to darkest brown before sun exposure. People who fall under this skin type usually have black eyes, and their natural hair color is black. As for their skin reactions to sunlight exposure, it never freckles, it never burns, and it always tans darkly.

Risks Associated with Each Skin Type

After figuring out your skin type, you need to try to explore the associated dermatologic problems.

Skin types 1 and 2

There is a high risk of sun damage, which can lead to:

• Burning
• Rosacea
• Signs of aging
• More freckles forming
• Skin cancer

People with skin types 1 and 2, usually those with very fair skin, should take extra precautions to protect their skin. For instance, they should use a broad-spectrum mineral sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 or more. A broad-spectrum physical (mineral) sunscreen protects from both UVA and UVB rays. Moreover, it is best for people with this skin type to avoid sun exposure as much as possible and wear protective clothing that reflects the sun’s rays.

Skin types 3 and 4

People who fall under skin types 3 and 4 can usually have their skin burned by sun exposure, but it can also tan. It is important to mention that the risk of skin cancer, for people with skin types 3 and 4, due to sun exposure is lower than it is for those with type 1 and 2 skin, but there is still a risk.

Skin types 5 and 6

The risk for skin cancer and sunburns is minimal. However, you still need to avoid direct sun exposure. This skin type has more risk of developing post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. It can also represent a challenge for laser settings as they can burn easily from the laser.

Bottom Line

Fitzpatrick skin types can help you determine your risk of skin cancer depending on how the skin type reacts to sun exposure. Overall, the risk of skin cancer is higher for people with type 1 or 2 skin (that is people with very fair skin). However, remember that skin cancer can affect any skin type, no matter how dark, and exposure to direct sunlight increases the risk.

Everyone should check their skin regularly with a dermatologist, including areas where the sun does not reach. People should see a doctor if they notice any unusual changes or growths.

The post How to Know Your Skin Type appeared first on Dr. Maha Marji.

Everyone desires healthy, glowing, and problem-free skin, but few people know how to achieve that. In this article, we share with you the best tips and pieces of advice that our dermatologist, Dr. Maha Marji, recommends for a healthy, glowing, and fresh-looking skin full.

This article will solely focus on the benefits of using retinoid creams, how to use them, and how much of it should be used.

What Are Retinoids?

Retinoids are a class of chemical compounds that are naturally occurring vitamin A (retinol) or synthetic substances that are chemically related to it. Retinoids have been used in medicine to regulate epithelial cell growth. Additionally, Retinoids are one of the best types of creams to be added to your skincare routine.

Benefits of Retinoids

There are many benefits to using retinoids, and a lot of them don’t take much time to become visible after you add retinoid creams to your skincare routine. Here are some of the most common benefits of using retinoids:

Treatment of acne

Retinoids are able to control several factors that cause acne to break out. Some of these factors include oil production and inflammation. It can prevent future breakouts by preventing dead skin cells from clogging your pores.

Helps improve hyperpigmentation

Using a retinol product at night might help with hyperpigmentation. Retinoids cause your skin cells to turn over, which begins the process of removing the pigmented cells that are there. This way, the old pigmented cells peel off, and new cells have the chance to grow in their place.

Decrease photo-aging

Retinoids decrease photo-aging due to high cells turnover and continuous rejuvenation. It can also stimulate collagen production within the skin, which gives it a younger, more elastic, and smoother look.

Treatment of psoriasis

Topical retinoids have shown that they can help treat mild to moderate plaque psoriasis by reducing the formation of patches of raised skin which allows the patient to get rid of the psoriasis patches faster.

Treatment of skin cancer (T cell lymphoma and Kaposi sarcoma)

Certain types of retinoids are used to treat certain types of skin cancer.

Examples of Retinoids that Are Available in the Market

You can find retinoids in the form of medicines and topical creams in drug stores. Examples of retinoids that can be found in the market include:

• Tretinoin (acretin).
• Adapalene (surecure, differin).

Limiting Factors and Contraindications of Retinoids

Although retinoid creams are fairly safe to use, there are some things that you need to be aware of before using retinoids on your skin. Here are the limiting factors of using retinoids:

• Irritation of the skin: If irritation occurs when you apply retinoids on your skin, you need to immediately stop applying them until you consult a doctor.
• Pregnancy: Although the amount absorbed by topical use is limited, the medication should not be used during pregnancy to avoid any risk of fetal anomalies.

The Best Way to Use Retinoid Creams

In order to get the best result possible using a retinoid cream, you need to properly use and apply it to your skin. Here are the doctor’s instructions on the best way to use retinoid creams:

• First, you need to wash your face with your usual cleanser.
• After that, add your daily moisturizer, and then apply retinoids. These first two steps are important as adding them to a clean, moisturized skin increases its efficacy and decreases the side effects.
• Start using retinoids gradually. Most irritation happens when initiating usage, so in order for you to avoid irritation, introduce retinoids to your skin gradually. Start by using the product every other day, or increase the number of hours gradually every day.
• You should make it your priority to put retinoids at night and wash them first thing in the morning.
• If any irritation happens (redness or excessive dryness), stop using retinoids for a few days, then restart after your skin calms down.
• If this irritation continues to happen too frequently, consult your doctor.
• To avoid the synergetic irritation effect, your skincare routine while using retinoids should not have any other agents that cause peeling and irritation like vitamin C or peeling acids.
• Don’t forget to use moisturizer and sunblock regularly.

Frequently Asked Questions About Retinoids (FAQs)

This section aims to shed light on the most commonly and frequently asked questions regarding retinoids and their uses.

How long can you use retinoids for?

You can use retinoids for many months each year, and they will not be harmful to your skin.

When will I start seeing the results of the retinoids?

You’ll start noticing the results of retinoids one month into using the products daily regularly.

Can I use retinoids during pregnancy?

No, if you are pregnant or planning to get pregnant, do not use retinoids. However, if you were already using them and you got pregnant, all you need to do is just stop using them, and there’s no need for further measures.

Can all skin types use retinoids?

Yes, any skin type can use retinoids. However, fair or sensitive skin types should be extra careful as it can be harder for them to adjust to the ingredient of retinoids. It is not recommended to use retinoids for people who have eczema or severely dry skin or active dermatological disease like infections.

When should I start using retinoids?

We typically recommend her clients to start using retinoids when they are in their teenage years, as that is when collagen levels in the skin start decreasing more rapidly. But all ages can benefit from the advantages of a retinoid-infused beauty routine.

How often should you apply your retinoid creams?

It is recommended to start out by applying a retinol one to two nights per week to build up your skin’s tolerance. Then, increase your frequency to every other night, as you can tolerate it. The goal is to eventually train your skin to use it nightly.

Shall I apply retinoids all over my face?

It is preferable to spread it all over the face, avoiding the eye area, the corner of the nose, and the corner of the mouth to avoid excessive irritation.

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