Guest blog post with Family Health Hawai’i

Too Much of a Good Thing Has It’s Risks

In Hawai’i, the sun is the hoaloha that continues to provide for us and draws so many to our state. It is an integral component of our culture, daily lives, and economic sustainability. However, as residents, we must consider ways in which we can protect ourselves from the damage it can cause from overexposure. While we honor it, bask in it, and take great pride in our abundance of it, we also have to moderate how much we allow ourselves to indulge. Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. Family Health Hawai’i and the clinical team at Honolulu MedSpa are here to help you avoid becoming a statistic through some simple steps to prevention and aftercare.

Prevention Tips

• If you are going to be outside for longer than 15 minutes, apply sunblock, SPF 30 or higher. Don’t worry, you will still soak in Vitamin D in between coats, while preventing early aging and skin cancer.
• Minimize exposure. Stay out of direct sun by keeping close to shade between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.
• Don’t wait to apply your sunscreen. Slather every inch of your body at least 30 minutes before you head outdoors or to the beach. This allows enough time for the lotion to bond to your skin cells before you are exposed to the sun.
• Reapply sunscreen at least every two hours.
• Make a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses your key accessories. Unprotected body parts, including the scalp and eyes are just as susceptible to sun damage as your face, arms, and legs. Choose a pair of sunglasses that will block 99% to 100% UVA and UVB radiation.
• Wear tighter woven clothing. The sun knows no bounds and will make it’s way through airy, light clothing faster than it will with darker, tightly knit apparel.

Damage Correction

For those of us who have already had their fair share of reckless sunbathing over the years, there are solutions for correcting the dark spots, wrinkles, and scarring. Here are some ways to help repair the skin.

• Vampire Facial® – This treatment uses the skin’s own healing properties (red blood cells) and micro-needling to treat the signs of aging.
• Medical Grade Facials – Honolulu MedSpa offers a number of medical grade facials that will exfoliate, replenish and hydrate, and heal the skin. These treatments will help stimulate collagen production, minimize pores, and lighten dark spots.
• Skincare Products – Dr. Yeo and our team have searched high and low for the best skincare products available on the market. Honolulu MedSpa has selected daily treatments focused on healing, nourishing, and maintaining a healthy complexion.

Sun Damage Affects Everyone

We are all susceptible to sun damage, regardless of our ethnic backgrounds and skin tones. According to the University of Southern California, San Francisco School of Medicine, more than one million Americans are diagnosed with skin cancer each year—a disease that is highly preventable, but can be deadly. Sunburn and skin cancer prevention is crucial to maintaining not only your appearance, but your overall health and wellness.

Sun damage accumulates over time, so it is never too late to start reversing the effects with appropriate prevention and treatments. It’s time to amp up your efforts toward implementing proper sun protection and supporting the vitality of your skin.

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