As summer approaches, now is a perfect time to refresh your knowledge about skincare. This way, you can help to protect yourself by preventing premature aging and damage from harmful UV rays. Most of us know by now that there is no such thing as a healthy tan unless it came from a bottle. We should all protect our skin each day by using an SPF 15 or higher on sun-exposed areas. Our faces are especially susceptible to sun damage, so make sure you keep this area covered. In fact, 80 percent of the wrinkles on our faces come from damage caused by the sun. But don’t worry! It is never too late to start taking care of your skin to prevent further harm.

So remember: Always put on sunscreen with an SPF 15 every morning as part of your daily routine, wash your face before going to bed with a gentle cleanser to remove dirt and makeup, moisturize you skin as needed to prevent excessive drying, and always inspect your own skin for suspicious lesions (skin abnormalities). Lesions are considered “suspicious” by the following guidelines: A) asymmetry, B) uneven “borders,” C) two or more colors, and D) a “diameter” larger than that of a pencil eraser. If you notice any skin changes or irregularities, you should make an appointment with your doctor as soon as possible!

You would probably be more comfortable going under the knife if you were confident in your physician. So how do you know which doctor is right for the job? Well, you start from the beginning. Browse through your physician’s Web site to review his or her credentials. Is he or she board certified plastic surgeon? Was your doctor’s residency done in the plastic/ cosmetic surgery industry? You can also research any complaints that have been filed against your doctor by contacting the state board of medical examiners (specific to each state). Complaints filed are public record, and you have the right to know! It also never hurts to look at before-and-after pictures of patients your doctor has worked on. Just remember, you are the paying customer! Make sure you do your homework to find the best plastic surgeon for the job. Feel free to post comments or questions about researching a doctor for your procedure.

Hi! My name is Stephanie; I’m a Physician Assistant in California. Today I am here to talk about laser skin resurfacing. Topical treatments that are purchased in department stores and day spas don’t always offer us the results that we are looking for. Laser skin resurfacing is safe and effective alternative that offers promising results. Advances in technology over the years have improved this procedure dramatically. Laser skin resurfacing has the ability to even out ones complexion by lightening age spots and red veins. It also has the ability to smooth scars and wrinkles, and can also be used to treat acne. If you are looking for a non-surgical method to bring youth back into your complexion, you should consider laser skin resurfacing. Feel free to post comments or questions regarding laser skin resurfacing! I would be happy to discuss this topic or any other cosmetic procedures with you.