Dr. Neda Mehr is the medical director for Pure Dermatology and Cosmetic Center in Newport Beach.
IN YOUR 20S
THE CHALLENGES: ACNE, MELANOMA, AND “ANGRY” WRINKLES
Skin damage accumulates throughout your life, so the most important tip for people is to limit exposure to sunshine. Too much sun is the main cause of aging because it stirs up the production of free radicals, turning today’s acne into tomorrow’s acne scars, causing broken capillaries and Two Orange County dermatologists give their best nonsurgical advice for optimal skin care. Dr. Neda Mehr is the medical director for Pure Dermatology and Cosmetic Center in Newport Beach, and Dr. Lenore Sikorski is the founder of Natural Image OC in Laguna Niguel. brown spots, and even leading to melanoma, the most common cancer killer for women in their 20s.
Mehr says her advice is universal. “Even if you come in for an acne breakout—a huge and unexpected problem for women in their 20s, due to hormonal changes and birth control—I’ll give you a lecture on sun exposure.”
There are ways to be safe in the sun. “Ten to 20 minutes of peak-hour sun exposure is good for you, as it enables the skin cells to convert vitamin D to its active form,” Sikorski says. “But don’t go to a soccer game without sunglasses, a hat, or an umbrella.”
SOLUTIONS: NONCLOGGING 30-PLUS SPF SUNSCREEN, SUNGLASSES, HATS, RETINOL, AND BOTOX
While sunscreen is a must, acne prone folks should choose wisely. The majority of sunscreens clog pores, Mehr says. She recommends one that won’t: ELTA MD UV Clear SPF 46. Available over the counter, it’s made with willow bark extract, which contains a derivative of salicylic acid, an exfoliant to remove the uppermost dead skin cells.
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