Sun exposure and skin care often go hand in hand in health discussions. However, avoiding the sun completely is not the only solution for healthy skin. Dr. Teo Soleymani, a double-board-certified dermatologist and skin cancer surgeon, recently shared insights on the mindbodygreen podcast, offering a balanced perspective on skincare. With expert advice on everything from new treatments to everyday habits, Soleymani provides actionable tips for maintaining healthy, youthful skin.
Protecting Against Skin Cancer
Skin cancer is the most prevalent cancer globally, but the cause isn’t simply overexposure to the sun. Soleymani explains that genetics play a significant role, with melanomas often appearing in areas that don’t receive much sunlight. Family history also contributes heavily to the risk. Therefore, Soleymani advocates a broader approach to skin cancer prevention.
While sunscreen is crucial, Soleymani advises that it shouldn’t be the sole method of protection. Instead, he recommends adding physical barriers like hats, long sleeves, and shade to your routine for more comprehensive defense. For those with a genetic predisposition to skin cancer, routine skin checks and preventive supplements like nicotinamide and polypodium can significantly reduce risk.
The Role of Sunscreen
Although sunscreen is widely endorsed, Soleymani clarifies its limitations. Research hasn’t proven that sunscreen alone can reduce the risk of melanoma or basal cell carcinoma mortality. However, it effectively prevents sun damage and lowers skin cancer risks. For optimal results, Soleymani suggests using mineral-based sunscreens and avoiding the sun during peak UV hours. He also highlights the importance of understanding your Minimal Erythema Dose (MED), the threshold of sun exposure that leads to skin reddening. By knowing your MED, you can gradually build UV tolerance without damaging your skin.
Nutrition and Skin Health
What you consume directly impacts the condition of your skin. Soleymani points out that skin is often the first place where internal inflammation manifests. To reduce inflammation, it’s advisable to avoid triggers like seed oils, sugar, gluten, and grain-based alcohols.
Regarding dairy, Soleymani advises choosing whole-fat dairy over low-fat versions, as emulsifiers in reduced-fat products can spike blood sugar levels, contributing to inflammation. As for caffeine, while it’s generally neutral for skin, it may exacerbate redness in individuals prone to rosacea.
Adopting an anti-inflammatory diet can lead to significant improvements in skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and acne. This highlights the powerful connection between gut health and skin condition.
Reversing Sun Damage
If you believe your sun-damaged skin is beyond repair, Soleymani assures there’s always room for improvement. Skin renews itself every 28 days, which offers ongoing opportunities for recovery.
For reversing damage, he recommends several treatments:
Lasers and Resurfacing: Nonablative fractional lasers, such as Fraxel, not only improve skin texture but can reduce future skin cancer risks by up to 50%.
Prescription Retinoids: These potent anti-aging treatments also help repair sun-damaged skin, smooth fine lines, and prevent acne. Soleymani emphasizes that prescription-strength retinoids are far superior to the more commonly available over-the-counter retinols.
Supplements: Nicotinamide, a vitamin derivative, has been shown to reduce non-melanoma skin cancer risk by 30%. Polypodium, a plant native to Central and South America, offers additional protection from UV damage and photoaging. These ingredients are found in Soleymani’s Sun Powder supplement.
Conclusion
Soleymani reminds us that our skin is a reflection of our overall health—physically, emotionally, and socially. Stress, poor nutrition, and unhealthy habits take a visible toll on skin health, while a balanced lifestyle fosters a glowing complexion.
By following these science-backed tips—whether it’s wearing protective clothing, using retinoids, or adjusting your diet—you can take effective steps toward healthier skin. Small changes can lead to noticeable improvements, helping you achieve the radiant skin you deserve.
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