THE AGE OF AGEING MISINFORMATION

We get why the global skincare industry has been experiencing an unprecedented rise in the popularity of anti-ageing products — everyone wants to drink from the fountain of youth! Despite these products having been formulated to address the signs of ageing in adults, a concerning trend has emerged, with teenagers using them in droves and engaging in “preventive” regimens to avoid premature ageing. Here’s the truth: they’re doing themselves more harm than good. 

Misaligned skincare needs

Teenage skin differs significantly from adult skin — duh! Adolescents are in a major developmental stage of their lives, and typically have oilier skin thanks to hormonal changes. This can lead to acne and other skin challenges. 

Anti-ageing products, on the other hand, are intended for mature skin, which tends to be drier and less resilient. It should go without saying that using products designed for older skin can — and does! — disrupt the natural balance of teen skin, potentially exacerbating common adolescent skin problems like acne and oiliness.

Potential for skin damage

Anti-ageing products typically contain potent ingredients like retinoids, alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs). While these ingredients can be beneficial for adult skin, they are too harsh for younger skin. Excessive use often causes irritation, redness, peeling, and most importantly, potential permanent chemical scarring and long-term damage to the skin barrier. Delicate teen skin simply can’t handle it. 

Hormonal disruption

Just as worrisome is that some anti-ageing products contain ingredients that can interfere with the hormonal balance of teenagers. Parabens, phthalates, and certain fragrances can act as endocrine disruptors, potentially affecting hormonal development and leading to issues like irregular menstrual cycles in girls, as well as hormone-related skin problems.

Psychological effects

This disturbing trend also has mental health implications. The pressure to maintain “perfect” skin can lead to anxiety, low self-esteem, and and poor body image. Some teens may develop an unhealthy obsession with their appearance that is completely counterproductive to healthy all-round development. 

Expensive and unnecessary

As a parent, please don’t let your teen convince you that investment in these types of skincare products — which are often more expensive than those formulated for younger skin — is necessary. It isn’t, no matter what their favourite TikTok influencers say. Instead, a proper skincare routine for teens should focus on gentle cleansing, hydration, sun protection, and addressing specific concerns, like acne.

Guide your teens towards understanding the basics of skincare and encourage them to adopt routines that promote long-term skin health. You can always come in and see us if you need specific advice; we can help ensure that your teens are using products that are well suited to their developing skin. Remember: in the pursuit of healthy skin, less is often more — especially when it comes to youthful, resilient teenage skin.

SUN SCREENING (OR HOW TO MAKE SURE YOUR SKIN IS A-OK!)

Want to look like a gorgeous, bronze goddess? You can grab some Vitamin D, just be smart about how you get that sun-kissed glow. 

Skin damage and ageing

One of the most immediate and visible effects of tanning is skin damage. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun penetrates the skin, causing damage at a cellular level, which manifests in the form of wrinkles and fine lines, hyperpigmentation and sun spots. Skin also tends to become dehydrated, flaky, and itchy, since the sun’s rays deplete its natural moisture. In severe cases, sunburn can occur — and because UV exposure accelerates the breakdown of collagen and elastin fibres, which are essential for maintaining youthful, firm skin, there is also loss of elasticity.

Increased risk of skin cancer

Prolonged exposure to UV radiation significantly raises the risk of both melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers. Melanoma, in particular, is highly aggressive and can spread to other parts of the body. While this practice is not very common in the Caribbean since we have the real thing — the sun — the World Health Organization (WHO) has warned against the use of tanning beds, citing the severe health risks they pose. Excessive UV exposure can also suppress the immune system, reducing its ability to combat infections and other diseases.

Here’s an easy way to check if you’re in the clear.

Eye damage

Tanning can have detrimental effects on eye health as well. UV radiation can cause photokeratitis, a painful condition that’s kind of like sunburn on the cornea; people with lighter coloured eyes should be particularly careful. Long-term exposure increases the risk of cataracts, macular degeneration, and other serious eye conditions that can lead to vision impairment or loss.

The takeaway? Everything in moderation. While the allure of a tan might be strong, you’ve got to weigh the aesthetic benefits against the health risks. Embracing sun safety measures, like using a broad-spectrum sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade, all can help protect against the harmful effects of UV radiation.

BEAT THE BURN

JAVA, the long-awaited July/August vacation is here, which means fun, friends, fam, and long, lovely beach days! Every rose has its thorn, though — or in this case, every beach its sea urchin — in the form of UV exposure/sunburn. This can lead to lead to long-term skin damage and premature ageing, not to mention an increased risk of melanomas and other forms of skin cancer. Here’s how to safeguard yourself from sunburn this summer… 

Understand your opponent

Think of the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays as radiation that can damage your skin. 

• UVA rays have the power to deeply penetrate your skin, causing premature ageing and wrinkles.

• UVB rays are the primary cause of sunburn, damaging the skin’s surface layers. 

Both types of rays are most intense between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., which is when you’re most vulnerable – but it’s also the best time to enjoy the beach. Fear not; you can still develop a solid sun protection strategy.

Pick the right sunscreen

Sunscreen is your first line of defense, but how do you choose the most effective ones (and use them properly)?  

• SPF (Sun Protection Factor) — Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, which gives you protection against both UVAs and UVBs.

• Application — Apply sunscreen at least 15-30 minutes before going outside. Don’t forget areas like your ears, the back of the neck, the top of your feet, and even your head. 

• Reapplication — Reapply every two hours or so (more if you’re swimming).

Bear in mind that kids are particularly susceptible to sunburn. There are many reliable sunscreens specifically formulated for children, which are gentle on their tender skin.

Cover up

Clothing can provide an excellent barrier against UV rays. 

• Long sleeves and long pants are a great starting point; even better if you go with lightweight, loose-fitting clothes made from natural fibres.

• Hats are heroes. Opt for wide-brimmed styles that shade your face, ears, and neck.

• Sunglasses are non-negotiable (unless, of course, you’re doing something physical or sporty, and run the risk of any sort of impact). Polarised sunglasses with UV protection safeguard your eyes and the delicate skin around them.

Throw some shade

Limiting direct sun exposure can significantly reduce your risk of sunburn.

• Take cover — Umbrellas (UV blocking versions are now available), changing tents, canopies, or even trees can offer shaded areas when you need them most.

• Be a timekeeper – Opt to avoid sun exposure during peak UV hours.

• Check the UV index – Use this daily forecast of UV radiation levels, which can be sourced via various UV apps and websites, to help plan your outdoor activities. Bear in mind that surfaces like water and sand can reflect UV rays and increase your risk of sunburn, so apply extra sunscreen and wear protective clothing like rash guards to boost your resistance. 

Hydrate

Not only does hydration help maintain healthy skin, but it can also reduce the severity of sunburn, so drink lots of throughout the day, especially if you’re active. Drinks like coconut water, which contain electrolytes, can replenish what’s lost through sweating and exertion.

Take action

If you do get sunburned, do your best to minimise the damage right away. 

• Submerge — Cool (not cold!) baths and compresses are great at soothing skin.

• Moisturise — Keep your favourite moisturisers handy to prevent skin from drying out.

• Hydrate — Drink extra water to help your body recover.

• Stay out of the sun — Keep the sunburned area covered and protected from further sun exposure.

• Consider treatments — Our Celluma LED light therapy machine has a good track recored in treating sun damage and hyperpigmentation.   

Sun protection is an important habit to nurture in order to prevent both short-term discomfort and long-term skin damage. Enjoy your holiday!  

NAILING IT — THE SURPRISING SIGNS OF MELANOMA

Melanoma is a serious form of skin cancer that originates in the melanocytes — the cells responsible for producing melanin, the pigment that gives skin its colour. While more rare than other types of skin cancer, it’s also more dangerous due to its tendency to spread to other parts of the body if not detected early.

• Superficial spreading melanoma is the most common type (found in about 70% of cases). It typically appears on the trunk of the body in men and on the legs in women.

• Nodular melanoma grows quickly and is more likely to spread. It often presents as a blue-black or reddish bump.

• Lentigo maligna melanoma typically occurs in sun-damaged areas, such as the face and neck, and is often found in older patients

• Acral lentiginous melanoma appears on the palms, soles of the feet, or under the nails, and is more common in people with darker skin tones. 

Melanoma under the nails

Known as subungual melanoma, this condition is rare but potentially deadly if not caught early. It often appears as a dark stripe or discolouration under the nail and can easily be mistaken for a bruise or fungal infection. The legendary reggae musician Bob Marley died from this form melanoma, which began under his toenail. His case highlights the importance of recognising and treating this form of melanoma early. You also need to beware of the dangers of UV nail dryers. 

Causes and risk factors

Several factors increase the risk of developing melanoma:

• UV exposure from the sun or tanning beds can damage the DNA in skin cells, leading to mutations.

• Less melanin puts you at higher risk, since this pigment provides some level of protection against UV radiation.

• Family history of melanoma naturally increases the risk.

• Moles (especially if they are abundant or atypical) increase the potential of developing the condition.

• Weakened immune systems, as can happen with immunocompromised people, can make them more susceptible.

What to look out for 

Early detection is crucial, so be vigilant about: 

• New moles or growths on the skin, or changes (size, shape, colour) to existing ones. This is a helpful guide. 

• Nail changes such as dark streaks or discolouration under the nails, especially if they do not heal or grow out with the nail.

If you notice any suspicious changes in your skin or nails, come in and see us as soon as possible. 

Treatment

Depending on the type and stage, melanomas can be approached with a combination of: 

• Surgery to remove the tumour.

• Immunotherapy, which helps boost the body’s immune system.

• Targeted treatments via drugs that hone in on specific genes and proteins contributing to cancer growth.

• Chemotherapy, though this is a less common approach for melanoma.

• Radiation, which uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells, especially if the melanoma has spread.

Prevention and early detection

This is often contingent on reducing UV exposure and regularly monitoring your skin for changes.

• Use sunscreen — A broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30+ is best, even on cloudy days. Try to avoid direct sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when UV rays are strongest, and wear protective clothing when you are out in the sun. 

• Avoid tanning beds — They emit harmful UV radiation and increase the risk of skin cancer.

• Check yourself — Monitor your skin monthly, paying special attention to areas not exposed to the sun, including under the nails.

Stay sun-safe!

BOTOX — THE NEW WEDDING MUST-HAVE

On a day when all eyes are on you, you naturally want to look and feel your best. Enter Botox (yep, you read that right). Here’s why this super-protein should be a non-negotiable on your wedding list! 

You’ll be ready for your close-up

What turned Botox into a household name is its ability to reduce the appearance of wrinkles by temporarily relaxing the muscles that cause fine lines. You’ll look smoother and more youthful, and your wedding photos will pop! 

You’ll still look like you 

When administered by a qualified professional, Botox results look so subtle and natural, no one will even know. You’ll simply look like the best, most radiant version of yourself.

You’ll stay fresh as a rose 

Botox works wonders with curbing excessive perspiration by blocking the nerves that activate sweat glands. So when you’re making your name on the dance floor, you won’t look shiny or feel sweaty. It also helps with conditions like overactive bladder and migraines. Win!  

You’ll get a kick of confidence

When you look your best, you feel your best, allowing you to enjoy your wedding day without worrying about your appearance. This boost can make a big difference in how you carry yourself and interact with your guests.

You’ll keep that glow 

Since the effects of Botox typically last between three and six months, your face will maintain that fresh, dewy look well past your honeymoon — and folks will simply think marriage agrees with you! 

You can fit it into your schedule 

Brides are busy, and Botox requires minimal downtime. The procedure usually takes less than 30 minutes with little or no downtime, and minor side effects like redness or swelling are rare and typically go away quickly. Just book your appointment a couple of weeks before the wedding, and you will be glowing and gorgeous!