Dr. Blanchard Highlights Importance of Sunscreen for Skin Health

News Summary

Dr. Kaitlyn J. Blanchard from Augusta University emphasizes the critical role of sunscreen in skin health during her discussion on skincare. As the largest organ of the body, skin protects against toxins and regulates temperature. She outlines sunscreen’s benefits in preventing skin cancer, urges daily use, and provides guidelines for effective application, stressing that education on skin safety is essential, particularly as summer approaches.

Augusta – The role of skin care and the necessity of sunscreen usage has been underscored by Dr. Kaitlyn J. Blanchard, a third-year resident at Augusta University Medical College of Georgia, highlighting the critical importance of maintaining healthy skin. The skin, the largest organ of the human body, spans approximately 18 square feet and is essential for protecting internal organs, regulating body temperature, and excreting toxins.

As a sensory organ, the skin enables humans to experience touch, pain, temperature, and pressure. Given these vital functions, proper skin care should not be overlooked, especially when it comes to protection from the sun’s harmful rays. Dermatology, the field Dr. Blanchard specializes in, tackles a broad spectrum of skin issues, treating conditions such as acne, eczema, dry skin, warts, fungal infections, skin cancer, and cysts across all age groups.

The Dermatology Clinic at Augusta University is known for providing high-quality care to patients, and Dr. Blanchard has a particular passion for dermatology thanks to its procedural nature and the opportunity to treat a wide range of skin ailments. She emphasizes the importance of incorporating sunscreen into daily skincare routines to safeguard skin health.

According to Dr. Blanchard, consistent sunscreen use is imperative, advising users to choose a product they enjoy applying. Sunscreen protects the skin by blocking harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, which can lead to accelerated skin aging and increase the risk of skin cancers, including melanoma. To achieve effective protection, it is recommended to apply approximately one quarter teaspoon of sunscreen to the face and one ounce for full body coverage, reapplying every two hours.

Sunscreens with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 15 block about 93% of UV rays, whereas those with SPF 30 block about 97%. Two formulations of sunscreen are commonly used: mineral and chemical. Mineral sunscreen acts as a physical barrier to the skin, sometimes leaving a white residue, while chemical sunscreen is typically clear, working through the absorption of UV rays. Both formulations are recognized by the FDA as safe for use.

The necessity for sunscreen usage becomes increasingly relevant as the summer months approach, a period marked by heightened sun exposure. Skin cancer remains the most prevalent type of cancer in the United States, with one in five Americans likely to be diagnosed during their lifetime. Areas most susceptible to skin cancer include those frequently exposed to the sun, such as the head, neck, hands, and forearms.

Fair-skinned individuals face a greater risk of developing skin cancer due to their skin’s lower tolerance for sun exposure. Early detection through self-examination is vitally important; individuals are encouraged to check their entire body for any suspicious spots or changes. Recognizing the ABCDEs of melanoma detection—Asymmetry, Border, Color, Diameter, and Evolving—can aid in identifying concerning moles, prompting a need for dermatological consultation.

To ensure adequate sun protection, sunscreen must be applied liberally and frequently. A shot-glass-sized amount is suggested for full-body application, with particular attention to reapplication after swimming or sweating. Many products labeled as “waterproof” may only provide limited protection in water, and the use of spray sunscreens is cautioned against due to their potential for uneven application.

Additionally, it is crucial to be aware of expiration dates on sunscreen products, as efficacy diminishes over time. Sun protection is necessary throughout the entire year, including indoors, since UVA rays can penetrate windows. Certain medications or skin conditions may also increase sensitivity to the sun, requiring individuals to take extra precautions against sun exposure.

Overall, the discussion by Dr. Blanchard emphasizes that by prioritizing proper skin care and regularly utilizing sunscreen, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of skin cancer and maintain healthier skin.

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Additional Resources

• Augusta Magazine: The Skin You’re In
• Augusta Health: Skin Cancer Detection and Prevention
• Cosmopolitan: Sneaky Ways You Can Get Sunburn While Wearing Sunscreen
• Live Science: How to Fix Common Skin Problems
• HuffPost: Does Natural Sunscreen Work?
• Wikipedia: Sun Protection
• Google Search: Skin Care
• Google Scholar: Sunscreen Effectiveness
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Skin Cancer
• Google News: Sunscreen Tips