How To Get That Summer Glow & Keep It
Whether you're man, woman, chock-full-o-melanin or moonlight complected, taking care of your delicate dermis is simple with these seven skincare tips from Adarsh Vijay Mudgil, M.D.
Maybe it's the selfie craze or the advent of HD television, but whatever the impetus, everyone seems interested in achieving a dewy, youthful summer glow yearlong -- it signifies that we're properly hydrated, the foundation of good health.
Dr. Mudgil's approach is holistic; in fact, he's one of the few dermatologists to be board certified in both dermatology and dermatopathology (we're not 100 percent sure what that means, but it sounds smart).
He breaks it down:
1. DON'T FORGET TO REAPPLY YOUR SUNSCREEN.
Most of my patients are pretty good about applying sunscreen. Where some fail is reapplying every couple of hours. Sunscreen loses efficacy the longer it's on your skin and if you're swimming or sweating, you'll basically rinse it off. Reapplying every two hours or so is key.
2. PROTECT YOUR LIPS.
Lips need sun-protection too! There are tons of options in this arena -- find something you like, will apply, and is at least an SPF 30.
3. PROTECT YOUR HAIRLINE.
A spray on sunscreen works well for the part line. This is frequently missed when applying sunscreen. I diagnose at least a few skin cancers on the scalp every year.
4. EAT LYCOPENE RICH FOODS LIKE TOMATOES.
Lycopene is a powerful antioxidant/anti-inflammatory that helps protect the skin from sun-damage.
5. DRINK LOTS OF WATER.
The importance of hydration cannot be overstated. Our bodies are 65% water. Drink at least eight full glasses -- your skin (and body) will thank you!
6. IF YOU GET A SUNBURN, TREAT IT!
Cold milk compresses, ibuprofen, and topical hydrocortisone* will help your skin heal and minimize damage.
*Editor's Note: For an all-natural alternative, check out anti-inflammatory extracts like the chamomile and licorice found in Shankara Naturals products.
Photos by Ayo Ogunseinde, Anna Sastre, and Anthony Tran.
Adarsh Vijay Mudgil, M.D., medical director of Mudgil Dermatology, PC, is one of few dermatologists to be board certified in both dermatology and dermatopathology -- this gives him a unique understanding of skin disease and allows him to approach patient care from both a clinical and cellular perspective.
He is versed in all aspects of medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology and specializes in noninvasive treatment. Dr. Mudgil takes a holistic and wellness-based approach to his practice, which has locations in Manhattan and Long Island, New York. He was honored with the title "Super Doctor," one of approximately 5% of physicians called such in his region.