Dr. Lederhandler: Summer is Coming! (Finally)

Summer is around the corner, which feels like especially great news after this challenging year! As we all begin to get excited about summer getaways, outdoor activities, and camp for the kids, it's a good time to restock on sunscreen and sun protective gear.

I like to apply a broad-spectrum (UVA + UVB) sunscreen with SPF 30 in the morning as part of my daily routine, and if I'm planning to be outdoors for a prolonged period, I reapply SPF 50 before going out and again every 2 hours. I also reapply after going swimming, even if I've used waterproof sunscreen, as water and sweat will wash the sunscreen off! Reapplying frequently is important because the sun's rays will break down the sunscreen, and with time the sunscreen loses its effectiveness. A good rule of thumb is to reapply every 2 hours, or after sweating, being in the water, or toweling off. Check to make sure your sunscreen hasn't expired!

I'm a big fan of sun-protective clothing (UPF50+), which allows me to skip the SPF to those covered areas! A wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses help to block those rays from the eyes, face, and neck, though, of course, sunscreen is still needed as UV rays reflect off the ground, sand, and water.

As a reminder, the sun's UV rays are strongest between the hours of 10AM and 2PM, so hanging in the shade or frequent reapplication of sunscreen is key during those times.

Protecting your skin from the sun not only reduces the risk of skin cancer, but also unwanted early skin aging (brown spots, red spots, wrinkles, sagging skin, and textural change)! #Protecttheskinyourein!

Meet Dr. Margo Lederhandler, our new addition at Skinfocused Dermatology

Margo Lederhandler, MD, FAAD, is a board-certified dermatologist with advanced fellowship training in cosmetic dermatology, lasers, and Mohs micrographic surgery for skin cancer. She is passionate about using her specialized training, and the latest cosmetic and medical techniques and treatments, to achieve each patient’s unique dermatologic goals.

Dr. Lederhandler's extensive training equips her to provide excellent care for all her patients: she can perform full-body skin examinations, spend time with patients for cosmetic consultations, and then optimize laser treatments for both children and adults. Dr. Lederhandler cares for all medical, cosmetic, and surgical

concerns, from pediatric to adult patients.

With a warm bedside manner, Dr. Lederhandler puts her patients at ease and makes everyone feel comfortable.

Hoping to see you at Skinfocused Dermatology soon!

Caring for Yourself During a Pandemic

As the number of COVID-19 cases rise and plummet and then rise again, we are all anxious about the health of our families and friends. We can control our actions and how we think about the world around us. We can also be good to ourselves.

Taking care of our mind and our body can improve one's mood. Now, more than ever, we are seeing people desire a bright, clean, and fresh appearance. And people are doing it -- not to show anyone else -- for ourselves.