Dr. Vi
What’s the best SPF for you and your child? Should you be spray tanning? What should you keep an eye out for on your children’s skin? Dr. Vi of Comprehensive Dermatology addresses the hot topics of the sun’s effect on skin.
What’s worse: Obtaining a little color from laying out with sunscreen or getting it from a tanning bed?
Dr. Vi: Both are bad- both cause skin cancer and wrinkles. If you want a tan, use a sunless tanner with dihydroxyacetone (DHA). I like the one by Jergen’s (click here to purchase),
Is spray tan a healthier approach? Are there any known long-term side effects?
Dr. Vi: Spray tan is a healthier approach. The ingredient in spray tan is dihydroxyacetone and it is bound to the superficial layer of the skin. So, there is no real systemic absorption. We do not know if there are any real problems with inhaling the spray tan, so I prefer the rub-on sunless tanners (lotions).
How often should adults see a dermatologist for a total body mole inspection?
Dr. Vi: On average, once per year. If someone has a personal or family history of skin cancer, I may recommend skin checks every 6 months. A full skin check means that we look at all of your skin- from the top of your head to the bottom of your feet. Early detection of skin cancer is key to survival!
What are the signs a mole might possibly be cancerous and what should we be looking out for?
Dr. Vi: Any new or changing mole should be shown to your doctor. We say to look for the “ABCD and E’s of melanoma”- asymmetric, irregular borders, variations in color, diameter bigger than a pencil eraser, and most importantly any evolution (change) in a mole. But really, show your doctor any mole that concerns you.
What are the best adult sunscreen brand and SPF and the best child sunscreen brand and SPF in your opinion?
Dr. Vi: There is so much controversy in sunscreen. But most dermatologists agree that you should use a sunscreen with UVA and UVB protection and with an SPF 30 or higher. I recommend the ingredients zinc, titanium, mexoryl, or helioplex. There are many good brands- from Elta (click here to purchase)
What’s the earliest age you recommend applying sunscreen on a baby?
Dr. Vi: Greater than 6 months old.
Remind us again: how soon should we apply sunscreen to our children and ourselves before heading outdoors?
Dr. Vi: I recommend applying sunscreen about 30 minutes before going outside, and once again when you go outside. I tell my patients that it is like applying a coat of paint- you can see through the first coat, but usually not through the second.
How often should we reapply?
Dr. Vi: Every 2 hours, or every hour if you are in the water.
When we Mamas do space on sunscreen, miss a spot on our kids, or forget to re-apply, what’s the best way to treat sunburn?
Dr. Vi: You can use over the counter 1% hydrocortisone (click here to purchase)
for the itch and pain- you can keep it in the refrigerator and it will feel nice and cool on the skin. If the sunburn is really bad, please see your doctor.
Even when parents perch their umbrellas, kids still run free. In addition to sunscreen do you have other recommendations for protecting their skin?
Dr. Vi: Try to get the kids to wear a hat. The wider the brim, the better. Also, get your kids in the habit of wearing a rash guard.
Are there any things to keep an eye out for on our kids’ skin? What would be cause for concern?
Dr. Vi: Show any new or changing spots to your pediatrician. Have your pediatrician note any moles on your child- and ask them if there are any that raise suspicion.
Do you have any recommendations for after-a-day-in-the-sun creams for adults and children?
Dr. Vi: There are a number of companies that sell after sun products- most have hydrocortisone or aloe vera like products in them. These are fine- but I would much rather you used better protection and did not need these! You really can have a great beach day, but keep protected with sunscreen every 2 hours, sit in the shade, wear a hat, and wear a rash guard. …There is a pill called heliocare that is available over the counter (click here to purchase)
We know the sun does a lot of damage, but isn’t it good for providing a little vitamin D?
Dr. Vi: This is a very controversial issue. In my opinion, most Southern Californians get enough sun because we live in such a beautiful, sunny location (even with good protection). If you are concerned about vitamin D, I recommend that you discuss vitamin D supplements with your doctor.
Vishakha Gigler, M.D. is a board certified dermatologist. She enjoys practicing medical, cosmetic, and surgical dermatology, including Mohs micrographic surgery. Dr. Gigler was recognized as a “top doctor” by her colleagues in 2007 in San Diego Magazine. She prides herself in delivering the highest level of medical care. For more information, visit www.comprehensivederm.com
Want Breezy Mama to arrive in your e-mail in-box? It’s free! Click here.
Get Breezy Mama updates & be entered to win a BOB Stroller Strides Fitness Stroller!
Bring out the glamor with
Wow…I think Dr. V and her twin sister used to be very cool customers of mine when I worked at the JCrew in Fashion Valley! Gonna have to locate their practice now…this is great!
Nice tips) You know I am so fond of sun, and am so fond of tanned skin. Lying under the sun and enjoying its warmth is everything for me. However, i greatly appreciate your tips and promise to follow them:-)