Info & FAQs
What does a dermatologist do?
Dermatologists are doctors with specialist training that allows them to diagnose and treat disease of the skin, hair, nails and mucous membranes. Dermatologists routinely treat skin cancers, moles, and a variety of skin lesions and inflammatory skin conditions such as dermatitis/eczema and psoriasis. They also perform some cosmetic procedures related to skin blemishes. Dermatologists are also surgeons who provide early control of disease and improve the appearance of the skin.
What the best moisturisers, soaps, cosmetic products?
Petrolatum, an ingredient in many lotions, creams and ointments, is an excellent moisturiser. Other ingredients such as urea, alpha hydroxy acids, lactic acid, and ammonium lactate help the skin retain its natural moisture.
What are the best sunblocks?
Use a sunblock with a broad-spectrum protection from both ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) rays. Also, use a high factor (SPF 30 or more) sunblock. Re-apply every two hours and after exposure to water through swimming or sweating.
How do I protect myself against the sun?
1. Generously apply sunscreen to all exposed skin, including lips.
2. Wear protective clothing such as long sleeves, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses if possible.
3. Seek shade. The sun’s rays are strongest between the hours of 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.
4. Use extra caution near water, snow and sand because they reflect the damaging rays of the sun, increasing risk of sunburn.
5. Protect children from sun exposure.
6. Get vitamin D through a combination of vitamin supplements and diet, however refrain from long periods of exposure to direct sunlight.
7. Avoid tanning beds.
How do I check for skin cancer (suspicious lesions) on my skin?
Periodic self-examinations aid in recognition of any new or developing lesion. Become familiar with your skin and your own pattern of moles and freckles. Make sure to look at your entire body every month or two. Watch for changes in the number, size, shape and colour of pigmented areas. It is advisable to take close-up, clear photographs of the moles which should help monitoring for change. Warning signs to look for include changes in the surface of a mole; scaliness, oozing, bleeding or the appearance of a new bump; spread of pigment from the border of a mole into the surrounding skin or a change in sensation (i.e., itchiness, tenderness, pain). Consult a dermatologist promptly if any changes are observed.
What can I use to treat wrinkles and age spots?
There are some promising treatments for aging skin. Retinoic acid, a cream that has been used successfully in treating acne, has been shown to improve the surface texture of the skin. Alpha hydroxy acids have shown promise in reversing some of the effects of the sun. Over-the-counter wrinkle creams and lotions may help dry skin and make it look and feel better, however they do little to prevent or reverse wrinkles.
