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As the “spring break” holiday approaches, many Ontarians will be traveling to a sunny, warm weather destination.  For some, travel preparation includes visits to a tanning salon.  DON’T DO IT!!

There is no such thing as a “healthy” tan.  A tan is the skin’s physiologic response to exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation.  The changes that occur from exposure to UV radiation – both from the sun and from sunlamps used in tanning beds – are harmful to our skin.  A tan means there has been damage to the skin’s DNA.

The World Health Organization reclassified tanning beds as “carcinogenic to humans” in 2009.  Tanning devices are now in the same cancer risk category as cigarettes and asbestos!

In addition to skin cancer, artificial tanning causes premature aging of the skin.  To maintain healthy skin, you should practice sun avoidance (especially between 10am – 3pm), wear sun protective clothing including a hat and sunglasses, and use a broad-spectrum sunscreen liberally.

For those of you lucky folks heading to a sun destination for March break or reading week, skip the trip to the “electric beach”, and have a sun safe holiday.

Spring season is right around the corner, and now would be the perfect time to freshen up your look with a mini makeover!  If your skin is looking dull and lackluster after the winter, or you just want a pick-me-up call our office.  We can create a customized program to help you achieve smooth, youthful and beautiful looking skin right in time for spring!

Consider microdermabrasion:  our Diamond Peel technology will buff away dead skin cells and activate new cell generation.  Your skin will feel amazing, and you will see improved tone and luster.  There is no down-time with microdermabrasion.  This is a perfect way to give your skin a glowing finish prior to a big event, like a wedding or prom.

Chemical peels are perfect for lightening some brown spots, softening some acne scars, and reducing the appearance of fine lines.  A series of  glycolic acid facial peels will stimulate collagen production, and can refresh your skin right in time for the spring season.

IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) Photorejuvenation is the perfect solution for shedding years of accumulated sun damage.  Brown spots and  facial broken blood vessels are improved, resulting in more even skin tone and a more youthful appearance.

The simplest way to keep your skin healthy and younger looking is to minimize sun exposure.  We can recommend a daily sunscreen from our medical grade skin care lines Alyria and SwissTEC that will help you protect your skin daily.

About 40% of Canadians have a condition called Keratosis Pilaris.  It shows up as tiny pink, rough bumps on the upper arms, and can also be seen on the thighs, hips and cheeks.  It is hereditary, and is often associated with eczema.  It is worse in the winter, and improves during our humid summer weather.

Although Keratosis Pilaris can’t be cured, I recommend Alyria Resurfacing Body Care lotion to smooth and soften this bumpy skin.  The key ingredient is a high concentration, slow-release gylcolic acid.   Allure magazine, recently named  Alyria Resurfacing Body Care Lotion an editor’s favorite product.  My office has carried this terrific product for a few years, and patients love it.  This lotion is also great for rough knees, elbows, and heels.

Drop by our office, and the staff at O’Neill Cosmetic Dermatology will be pleased to help you.