CHALLENGES TO HEALTHY SKIN?
Janine Mendes-Franco
Let’s talk about it!
November is celebrated in several parts of the world as Healthy Skin Month. It’s a great opportunity to take a closer look at our skincare routines and give our largest organ the attention it deserves.
In the Caribbean, high levels of glare and sun exposure increase the risk of sun damage, premature ageing, and skin cancers, even in darker skin tones that naturally contain more melanin. Humidity can lead to acne, fungal infections, and heat rash, while air-conditioned offices and frequent showering can strip the skin of its natural moisture.
Regional skin health is also tied to diet, with high sugar and oil intake triggering inflammation and leading to dullness or breakouts. Stress and sleep quality can also be skin saboteurs — so how do we keep our skin thriving? We’ll look at five common Caribbean skin concerns and tangible solutions to keep your skin glowing…
Challenge #1: Sun damage
Uneven skin tone, hyperpigmentation, and skin cancers are a top concern for many of us — and these conditions are often linked to sun exposure, whether you’re naturally blessed with melanin or not. You’d be surprised at how many people are unaware of the importance of regularly using sunscreen, so let’s be clear:
There is zero scientific evidence of sunscreen ingredients causing skin cancer, as we have seen certain social media reels claim.
There is scientific proof that unprotected sun exposure increases skin cancer risk.
What to do
Protect your skin by:
Applying a broad spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to any exposed skin, even if it’s cloudy and even if you’re indoors, as UV rays can also be harmful through windows and emitted from computer screens, phones, televisions, tablets, etc.
Opt for the shade whenever possible, and always have a hat handy.
Wear sun-protective clothing.
Avoid being in the sun especially between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when UV rays are often at their most intense.
Get to know your skin’s patterns — if you notice new moles, rashes, or spots that change shape or colour, please come in and see us. Early detection saves lives!
Challenge #2: Acne
Of course there are different types of acne, and treatment often depends on a variety of factors, but generally speaking, sweat, clogged pores, and heavy products contribute to breakouts. Many people respond to this by over-cleansing their skin, which can lead to further irritation.
What to do
Stick to a simple and gentle routine:
Our four-step plan? Cleanse, treat, moisturise, and protect.
Choose trusted products that have been through proper clinical testing and use safe ingredients that have been proven effective — non-comedogenic products are best.
Challenge #3: Eczema
In tropical climates like ours, eczema and heat rashes are very common, with the humidity triggering flare-ups — especially in children and people with sensitive skin.
What to do
Giving skin much-needed moisture via the products we use, combined with drinking enough water and supplementing it with water-rich foods like cucumbers and watermelon, goes a long way.
Opt for a gentle moisturiser that locks in hydration without clogging pores.
Lighter gels, creams or lotions tend to work better in humid conditions; make sure they are fragrance-free.
Challenge #4: Fungal infections
Sad but true: conditions like athlete’s foot and ringworm thrive in moisture-rich environments, which tropical climates have in droves!
What to do
These types of conditions thrive on inflammation; to combat them, you can:
Support your skin with foods rich in vitamin C, omega-3s, and antioxidants, while limiting processed and fried foods
Stay dry — fungi love moisture, so avoid damp or sweaty areas on your body and between your toes. Let your skin breathe!
While over-the-counter anti-fungals may be sufficient, make an appointment with your dermatologist if there is no relief; you may need something stronger.
Fungi can linger on clothes, in shoes, and on towels, so ensure these are clean at all times and do not share.
Challenge #5: Misinformation
Bet you didn’t see this coming, but it’s one of the greatest obstacles to healthy skin. Harmful advice, even delivered with the best intentions, can take a serious toll on your skin, hair, nails — and, let’s face it — your self-esteem.
What to do
Be discerning:
In the age of the influencer, which absolutely comes with its pros and cons, the trustworthiness of the person giving the advice is usually more reliant on their qualifications and the experiences of their patients than the number of followers they have.
Do your research. If the advice comes from a medical board-certified dermatologist, that’s a good start
Always trust your gut. Just because everyone is trying the latest skincare trend doesn’t mean it’s for you.
Remember, if you have any questions or want to learn more about how to keep your skin healthy for life, we’re a phone call away!