Image Chicago, Summer '06, vol 1, Issue 6, p. 26

What are the major problems that exposed skin to direct sunlight have on the body?

1.      Premature wrinkle formation, from photo damage (damage to the skin by UV light)

2.      Formation of dark spots (solar lentigo)

3.      Thinning of skin

4.      Formation of broken blood vessels

5.      Increased likelihood of skin cancer formation.

How much is too much sun for a person in a life-time?

There is no number to quantify. Always listen to your body. If you are getting pink or red, you have had too much sun.

What is the average sun exposure for a person?

It depends what the skin type of the person is. Always again listen to your skin. If you are getting pink or red, get out of the sun.

How do using Tanning Oils and Enhancers affect the skin?

Oils and creams can increase the penetration of UV rays into the skin, therefore, making the problem worst.

Long term effects?

1 Premature wrinkle formation, from photo damage

2 Formation of dark spots (solar lentigo)

3 Thinning of skin

4 Formation of broken blood vessels

5 Increased likelihood of skin cancer formation.

Are tanning salons safe?

No. Ninety-five percent of tanning salon customers exceed the recommended limits for UV exposure. A recent study from Norway showed women using tanning beds had a 10 fold increase in the incidence of melanoma.

Do sunscreens really work?

Yes.

What should people look for in a sunscreen?

A sunblock that protects your skin from both UVA & UVB; make sure your sunscreen has at least one of these 3 products: Titanium dioxide, zinc oxide or avobenzene. Make sure your SPF protection is at least 30, although most dermatologists recommend SPF 15

Is there a difference between Sun block and Sunscreens?

The two are interchangeable. However, the use of sun block refers to physical sunscreens, that is, sunscreens that contain physical barriers like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These tend to block out most of the suns harmful rays.

What’s the best way to apply Sunscreen?

Apply sunscreen liberally, almost like layering a cake, and reapply every 1-2 hours, especially if sweating or in water.

How do you relieve sunburn?

At first sign, get out of the sun. Then apply a cool compress on the skin. If your doctor allows, take an aspirin, and apply a thin coat of 1% hydrocortisone cream, and see your doctor.

Can people burn on a cloudy day?

Yes. Ultraviolet rays travel through the clouds.

If damage is noticeable on someone, what can they do to improve their skin?

1. First, stop any further damage by learing to protect yourself from UV light.
2. Topical retinoids (like Renova or Avage) have been shown to reverse photodamage.
3. Light chemical peels can reverse some signs of photodmage
4. Some laser and IPL treatments can further erase the signs of photodamage.

Further note on Dr. Memar:

Dr. Memar is an active Clinical Assistant Professor at Northwestern University, and medical director of Academic Dermatology & Skin Cancer Institute, where he performs Mohs surgery, cosmetic and laser surgery. He has published in leading journals, co-authored numerous chapters for textbooks, designed medical devices in the field of dermatologic surgery, and presented his research across the country. He can be reached at 312.230.0180   His web site is www.adsci.com

Copyright © 2004 Academic Dermatology & Skin Cancer Institute of Chicago