Frequently Asked Questions

I need to use HOW MUCH suncreen?
All sunscreens are labelled with "SPF", which stands for "Sun Protection Factor." Many people have been told that there is no benefit to using sunscreen any higher than SPF 30. This statement is not true simply because no one ever applies enough sunscreen to get the SPF that is on the package label. (Click here for instructions.)

People normally apply about a third of the needed amount. I recommend at least an SPF 70 or higher for any prolonged sun exposure, such as the beach, picnic, soccer or baseball games etc. Daily sunscreen application with a sunscreen of SPF 15-30 is recommended for most people who are in and out of doors during the day. PLEASE NOTE: I frequently recommend NOT using sunscreen for November, December, January and February (unless you are skiing) because you need a little sun to help with Vitamin D, and your face is the only body part exposed during the winter.

What is the best moisturizer to prevent wrinkles?
This is actually a trick question. Applying a moisturizer every day to your face does not prevent wrinkles in any way, UNLESS the moisturizer has a sunscreen in it. The main causes of wrinkles are sun exposure and smoking. (See first question)

How often do I need to wash my face for my acne?
Washing your face is probably the least important treatment you can do. Acne is not caused by dirt or oil on the face. Benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid containing products are available over the counter and can be helpful for mild acne. As far as diet goes, there is also evidence that both a high dairy intake and a high sugar intake cause cause significant breakouts.

How often should I get my moles checked?
This is not a “one answer fit all” kind of question. Your risk for skin cancer depends on many factors. Once a year is probably too often for many people. Those with RISK FACTORS should be seen once a year or more: including

1. family history of skin cancer (having cancers of other types does not increase your risk for skin cancer);
2. the amount of sun exposure you had, such as working outdoors, being a life guard, or multiple blistering sunburns, especially before the age of 19;
3. the number of moles you have--greater than 20 gives an increased risk;
4. your general pigmentation--people with fair skin and blue eyes have an increased risk compared with people with more pigment in the skin.
5. If you have already had a skin cancer, then you definitely should be seen more frequently than the average person.

Should I check my moles myself?
A very good idea! There is a simple system developed years ago that anyone can use to help decide whether a mole could be a problem. It is easy to remember: ABCDE

What is the best cream for my eczema/dry skin?
There is no single perfect moisturizer that works for everyone. Some people prefer the feel of a lighter lotion or a heavier cream. Trying different brands is a good way to find out.The brands that I like include Aveeno and, Cerave. Neutrogena makes very good light moisturizers for acne prone skin.

Why do I keep getting these warts?
Warts are a virus infection, and are acquired to contact with someone else who has warts, or at least some of their skin cells that have the virus in them. Walking barefoot on yoga mats and around swimming pools are great places to get warts.

Should I use the internet to figure out my skin problem?
Many people who try to diagnose their skin problem by searching the web can get confused or scared by information about diseases they do not have. On the other hand, finding out about treatments for a skin condition which a doctor has diagnosed can be very helpful. I recommend the American Academy of Dermatology website for both information about specific diseases, and information about evaluating moles for skin cancer: https://www.aad.org/for-the-public