Category: Uncategorized

This March, winter-worn masses across the country will seek out a much-needed diversion in the time-honored tradition known as spring break. Whether you’re the parent of school-aged children or a college student with a few extra bucks, school is out – it’s time to put the long, hard winter behind you and go live a little. While warm, sandy beaches remain the popular choice, there are some who eschew the surf and sunshine for snow and skiing. Whatever your preference, make sure your skin care routine is slope-ready with these simple tips. Don’t Skimp on Sunscreen Here’s a fun fact: You can sunburn on a mountaintop just as easily as you can surfside. A fairly recent post explained the importance of sunscreen even in the dead of winter, and it’s even more important when skiing. When you’re hitting the slopes, you’re particularly vulnerable to increased radiation due to reflection and altitude and decreased sunscreen performance due to the wind.

• Reflection: Because white is reflective, you end up get a double dose of radiation – directly from the sun and bouncing off the snow.
• Altitude: The further away from sea level you get, the greater your exposure to UV rays. For every 1,000 feet above sea level you climb, UV exposure increases 8-10 percent.
• Wind: Coupled with cold temperatures and abrasive ice particles, wind wears away sunscreen, making more frequent reapplication necessary. Windburn, in itself, can be just as irritating and damaging as sunburn, so general skin protection is good policy.

Don’t Forget About Frostbite Although it is incredibly unusual in everyday life, participating in outdoor winter sports like skiing can increase your chances of frostbite. Frostbite happens when your skin is exposed to extreme temperatures, causing your body to go into self-preservation mode. Blood vessels in your extremities constrict to better preserve your core temperatures. With prolonged exposure, those constricted blood vessels begin to die. Depending on the severity of exposure, this can cause an uncomfortable stinging sensation and discoloration in mild cases to permanent loss of feeling to amputation when severe. For more information on identifying and preventing frostbite see our post “How to Tell if You Have Frostbite (And What to Do About It).” Don’t Miss Out On Moisturizing The cold, dry mountain air makes proper hydration a chore for even the healthiest skin, resulting in Itchy, irritating, and unsightly dry skin. After you’ve hung up your skis for the day, help it heal with some much-needed moisture.

• Texture: Opt for a balm or cream rather than a lotion. They contain less alcohol (a drying agent), last longer, and penetrate deeper into the skin.
• Additives: Masking agents, found in both scented and unscented lotions and body washes, can further dry out the skin. Make sure your products are fragrance-free.
• Replenish: After showering down, be sure to moisturize within 3 minutes toweling off. The process of bathing strips your skin of its natural oils, so they need to be replenished as quickly as possible.

You wouldn’t hit the slopes without gloves or skis, so why skimp on your skin care? Whether you’re tearing down the double black diamonds or happy to stick with the bunny hills, take a few minutes to make sure your skin is as prepared as the rest of you. And, as always, when healthy skin seems like scaling a mountain, the skin care experts at Forefront Dermatology will give you a lift. To find the Forefront physician nearest you, visit the Locations page today.

Just like your stomach or your lungs, your skin is an organ – in fact, it’s your largest one. And, just like it affects any other organ, your nutrition affects the health of your skin. But your skin isn’t a closed system. Your skin is your first (and best) defense against, well, everything. In addition to waterproofing and insulation, it protects your sensitive tissues from extreme temperatures, dangerous UV rays and harmful chemicals. Healthy skin is vital to a healthy you. So, in honor of National Nutrition Month, here are a few skin-enriching vitamins to work into your diet. Vitamin C Alone, Vitamin C is pretty awesome for your skin. Not only does it help maintain overall health, it helps produce collagen, the structural protein that keeps your skin looking firm and young. It prevents you from developing scurvy – a condition associated with skin lesions and pirates – which is far more common than one may think. Good Sources of Vitamin C: Citrus Fruit (Oranges, Grapefruit, etc.), Bell Pepper (Red, Green, Yellow), Strawberries, Kale, Brussels Sprouts Vitamin E Together with Vitamin C, Vitamin E is particularly important when it comes to reducing sun damage. In particular, fair-skinned individuals benefit most from the addition of Vitamins C and E to their diets in conjunction with regular use of sunscreen. Good Sources of Vitamin E: Leafy Greens (Spinach, Kale, etc.), Nuts (Almonds, Hazelnuts, Pistachios), Avocados, Shellfish & Fish, Plant Oils  Vitamin D Your epidermis – the outermost layer of your skin – uses sunlight to synthesize Vitamin D. One of the many benefits of Vitamin D is its ability to protect and repair UV damage – a major cause of skin cancer. (Sunlight + Skin = Vitamin D. Vitamin D = Good. Got it? Sweet.) “As a dermatologist, I don’t recommend exposing your skin to undue rays just to up your Vitamin D levels,” says Dr. Betsy Wernli of the Manitowoc and Chilton, Wis. offices. “Not only can it lead to skin cancer – including squamous cell and basal cell carcinoma as well as the potentially deadly melanoma – it can also have cosmetic effects like wrinkles and premature aging. If you’re deficient in Vitamin D, seek out other sources like Vitamin D-rich foods or plain old supplements.” Good Sources of Vitamin D: High-Fat Fish (Trout, Salmon, Swordfish, etc.), Mushrooms, Tofu, Dairy Products Vitamin deficiencies and skin conditions go hand-in-hand. When “You are what you eat” turns into “Then what the heck did I eat?!” it may be time to seek out a medical professional. To better understand how your diet is affecting your skin, schedule an appointment with a physician at Forefront Dermatology. To find the Forefront physician nearest you, visit the Locations page today.

Sometimes, bad habits manage to weasel their little ineffective, counterproductive selves into even the simplest of tasks. Take washing your face, for instance. You wet your skin. Work in some cleanser. And rinse it off. It’s washing your face, not rocket science, right? Right – and wrong. While you may have the basic steps down, you may be sabotaging the effectiveness of your skin care routine with these 5 commonly made face-washing mistakes. Mistake #1: Wiping Instead of Washing Face wipes are really, really, really, ridiculously convenient. If stubborn eye makeup leaves you looking like a raccoon, they may be your go-to. But wipes are no replacement for a good cleansing. Sure, they may make work of yesterday’s liner, but they don’t even touch the deep dirt oil, and bacteria that clogs pores and causes breakouts. If you can’t seem to part with your beloved face wipes, be sure to use them before washing your face. Mistake #2: Cranking Up the Heat If you prefer your showers hot enough to boil a lobster, we’ve got some bad news: you’re doing it wrong. Your skin’s natural oils become more fluid in the heat (think: heated butter) and are easily stripped away by water and even the gentlest facial cleansers. “Ideally, you’d want to take cooler showers because they’re less irritating and drying to your skin,” explains Dr. J. Mark Jackson, Clinical Professor of Dermatology at the University of Louisville. “Of course, that’s kind of a hard sell in these colder winter months. So, if you insist on taking a warm – not hot – shower, make sure you apply moisturizer immediately after drying off to help replenish and seal in oils lost while bathing.”  Mistake #3: Using the Wrong Cleanser Before adding any product to your skin regimen, you should have a good understanding of what your skin is before deciding what it needs. Be it oily, dry, or anywhere in between, there are countless products on the market that are made specifically for your skin type. Beware of cleansers that smell good or lather well as these often contain sulfates and fragrances that can irritate your skin. The gentler the better. Mistake #4: Exfoliating Too Often It’s no secret that you’re constantly shedding skin cells – on average, you’ll shed 30,000 to 40,000 dead skin cells every minute! While you may think that exfoliating with every wash is just helping that natural process along, it may be doing more harm than good. The overuse of abrasive exfoliators is effectively scratching your skin raw, leading to skin damage, irritation, and accelerated aging. Instead, opt for gentle exfoliants containing natural ingredients and minimally abrasive particulates and reduce your use to 1-2 times per week. Mistake #5: Overly Aggressive Drying Your tough exterior is surprisingly delicate – and it’s at its most delicate when freshly washed. Rubbing your face dry with a towel after washing is kind of like waxing your sports car with block of sand paper. Aggressive rubbing can irritate or damage the skin – causing redness, wrinkles, or microlesions. Now that we’ve cleared up those face-washing missteps, you can clear the way for a process that will leave your skin healthy, happy, and, well, clear. For more skin care best practices, look to the professionals at Forefront Dermatology. To find the Forefront physician nearest you, visit the Locations page today.

This Valentine’s Day, show some appreciation to the one who protects you. The one who keeps you whole. The one who sticks with you come rain or shine, in sickness and health, through thick and thin. Your skin. You don’t need indulgent chocolates, overpriced flowers, or saccharine tokens of affection. Just you, your skin and some L-O-V-E. L is for a Little Luxury Although a day at the spa may seem like the epitome of treating yourself, you can enjoy the benefits of a deep clean without ever leaving your home.

• Indulge in a warm bath with oils or oatmeal that help hydrate your skin while you get some rest and relaxation.
• Exfoliate, calm, or otherwise pamper your face with a mask developed for your skin type.
• Invest in a good pore cleansing brush for an exfoliating deep clean – but beware that you can have too much of a good thing – so limit use to a couple times a week.

 O is for Your Oft-Overlooked Hands Your hands do so much and ask for so little in return. Why not show them a little TLC? Keep your hands healthy and hydrated with a moisturizing hand cream or balm – it’ll last longer and offer better protection than lotions or gels. Kick the lush factor up a notch and splurge on a pair of moisturizing gloves to help infuse your delicate hand skin with all kinds of healthy, hydrating oils, vitamins, and extracts. V is Because Sun Protection is Very Necessary  Ultraviolet (UV) rays aren’t all bad, all the time. They help your body produce Vitamin D, which strengthens bones and protects you from many diseases, and is even used in some therapies for psoriasis. But that doesn’t mean you should skip the sunscreen. UV radiation is also linked to long-term damage like wrinkles and freckling, and is the leading contributor to the most common form of cancer: skin cancer. “I know it seems like we say this a lot, but UV protection is important,” says Dr. J. Mark Jackson, Clinical Professor of Dermatology at the University of Louisville. “Something as simple as using a daily moisturizing sunscreen can help prevent UV damage while still allowing some exposure for healthy Vitamin D production.” E is for the Experts at Forefront Dermatology OK, so you don’t really need a holiday to give your skin some TLC. Whether you want to address a specific skin condition like psoriasis, eczema, or acne, or just love what you see when you look in the mirror with Botox, dermal fillers, Broadband Light therapy (BBL), or a HydraFacial. The physicians at Forefront Dermatology offer a variety of cosmetic, medical, and therapeutic services to help you love your skin. To find the Forefront physician nearest you, visit the Locations page today.

You can call it every expletive known to man or make any number of rude gestures in its general direction, but the fact remains that cancer is a terrible, horrible, no-good, very bad thing. It’s scary, physically damaging, emotionally draining, potentially deadly, and, unfortunately, incredibly common. Although skin cancer is the most commonly diagnosed form of cancer, with more than 3 million diagnoses each year, it’s also one of the most easily treatable and preventable. In fact, the largest share of skin cancer diagnoses comes in the form of Basal cell and Squamous cell cancers – both relatively non-aggressive and offering good outcomes when found and treated. Even melanoma, by far the most serious form of skin cancer, can be treated when found in its early stages. In honor of National Cancer Prevention Month, Forefront Dermatology wants to help you live a longer, healthier life with these skin cancer prevention and early detection tips. Know Common Risk Factors Sun-worshippers beware! Because Melanoma starts in melanocytes, the skin cells that release pigment in order to protect the delicate deeper layers from the sun’s radiation (also known as that golden goddess suntan), the biggest risk factor is UV exposure. Other factors include complexion (fair skin that won’t tan or burns easily increases your risk for skin cancers), family history of skin cancers, moles, weakened or compromised immune system, smoking, and aging. Individuals who have successfully been treated for skin cancer in the past are at greater risk of developing new cancerous growths – for Basal cell and Squamous cell carcinoma, the risk of getting a new skin cancer is about 50 percent, while Melanoma is 12-14 percent. Protect Yourself from Harmful Radiation While some factors – like family history, aging, and compromised immune system – can’t be mitigated, you are in control of your UV exposure. Daily sunscreen use helps prevent harmful UV damage, while still allowing enough exposure to produce Vitamin D, an important part of musculoskeletal health. While using a daily moisturizer with sunscreen is a good habit, be sure to switch to a heavier, longer-lasting sunscreen of SPF 30 or greater, if you expect to be out in direct sunlight for an extended period of time. Skin Screening Saves Lives Regular self-examinations are the best way to catch skin abnormalities at their most treatable stages. So grab a mirror and get ready to become intimately familiar with every inch of your skin. From head to toe – and every nook and cranny in between – evaluate each spot for its ABCDE’s. Asymmetry – If you draw a line through the middle of the benign mole, the two halves should roughly match. If not, it may be a sign of melanoma. Borders ­– The edges of a benign mole are smooth and even. Scalloped, rough, or notched edges are indicative of early stage melanoma. Color – Most benign moles are fairly even colored. Melanoma may be multiple shades of brown, black, red, white, or even blue. Diameter – Benign moles are typically smaller than malignant ones. If its diameter is greater than a pencil eraser, it may be a sign that it is growing or changing. Larger moles that have been stable for an extended period of time aren’t typically cause for concern; though continued observation is recommended. Evolution – Part of the reason regular self-screenings are effective is because you’ll more easily notice when moles grow in size, shape, or color – indicating Melanoma. Should you come across any moles that meet any of the ABCDE Melanoma criteria, schedule a skin screening with your Forefront Dermatologist immediately. Skin cancers are at their most treatable when detected in their early stages. It is estimated that 1 in 5 Americans will have skin cancer in their lifetime. While serious and, yes, even potentially deadly, Forefront Dermatology‘s compassionate, knowledgeable physicians offer the most innovative and effective treatments available – helping your skin cancer scare be a little less, well, scary. To find the Forefront Dermatology clinic nearest you and schedule your skin screening, visit our Locations page.

Unless you live under a rock in a galaxy far, far away, you’ve made a New Year’s resolution at some point in your life – and you’re not alone. Last year, an estimated 44 percent of Americans made a resolution, and, no surprise, fitness-, health- and weight loss-related goals accounted for 3 of the top 5 most common ones. What do these 40 million Americans have in common? They’re going to need to exercise to achieve their goals. Exercise, in itself, is a really good thing. But all the stuff that comes with exercise may be a really bad thing for your skin. So while you’re TCB at the gym, don’t forget to give your skin some TLC with these tips.

Wash Your Face

Ladies: Everyone looks like a miserable sweaty beast while exercising. Those who don’t are magical unicorns that probably subsist on rainbows and morning dew. For the non-unicorn folk, removing makeup before exercise is an important part of clear, healthy skin. When you work out, your sweat mixes with dirt and bacteria on the skin. Makeup creates a barrier that gives this sludge nowhere to go but back into your pores – causing blemishes and breakouts. Before you hit the treadmill, wash your face or use a makeup removal cloth.

Wear Sunscreen

Trading the treadmill for pavement? Don’t forget to protect your skin from harmful UV radiation. “If you’re planning on spending any time outside, you should be wearing sunscreen,” says Dr. J. Mark Jackson, Clinical Professor of Dermatology at the University of Louisville. “But when you’re going for a run or working up a sweat, your regular moisturizing sunscreen won’t cut it. Find a sunblock that is waterproof and sweat-proof and apply it an hour before going outside. This allows it to soak into your skin so it won’t wear off as easily or run into your eyes during exercise.”

Change It Up

Before you set foot in the gym, make sure your clothes are skin-friendly. Usually, moisture is your skin’s best friend, but when you’re breaking a sweat, it becomes too much of a good thing. “Some clothing that people tend to wear while exercising, while comfortable, actually prevents the skin from breathing,” says Dr. Jackson. All-cotton fabrics, for instance, absorb moisture and dry slowly. This breaks down your skin’s natural oil barrier, increasing the potential for irritation, breakouts, and chafing. Your best bet is to choose fast-drying or moisture-wicking fabrics to aide the evaporation process.” And, once your workout is over, resist the urge to figuratively and literally rest on your laurels by changing out of that sweaty workout gear. When you lounge in damp, soiled clothes, it gives dirt and bacteria nowhere to go except back into pores, again, causing breakouts.

Wash Your Face (and the Rest of You, Too)

While you’re in “getting undressed” mode, why not hop into the shower. Not only is it a refreshing wrap to your workout, it’s essential to keeping your skin clear and healthy. Wash away the dirt and muck your sweat has so generously flushed out with a moisturizing body wash and a gentle face wash.

Stay Hydrated Inside and Out

While drinking plenty of water is an important part of working out, don’t forget to give your skin some hydration, too. After showering, take some time to moisturize from head to toe. It’s good policy to moisturize within 3 minutes after bathing to help replace the natural oils that keep your skin soft and supple. And, during those winter months, opt for a heavier cream or balm to protect from the harsh, dry weather.

Regardless of whether your 2016 goals involve running a marathon or watching a television marathon, resolve to make healthy skin a part of your new year with help from the experts at Forefront Dermatology. To find the Forefront physician nearest you, visit the Locations page today.

The health of your skin is an indication of your overall health. Your skin is the first and best defense from a whole host of outside invaders, but most potentially harmful viruses, bacteria, and microorganisms are stopped in their germy little tracks by its protective barrier. Additionally, rashes, blotchiness and even breakouts are often indicative of underlying issues from allergies to hormonal imbalances. That alone should be a good reason to take care of your skin. But, let’s be honest here, there are a ton of seemingly vain – though equally valid – reasons to do so as well. Because it’s flattering to get carded – especially in a well-lit room? Because Da Vinci couldn’t have painted the Mona Lisa on a dirty canvas so the same should apply for your makeup? Or because you want to live by the words of Beyoncé and “Wake up – Flawless”? Regardless of your reason, taking care of your skin is an important component of overall wellness – and establishing a skin care routine that works for you is an essential part of that.  Know Your Skin There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to skin care. Before you start filling your online cart with the latest and greatest skin care products that the Internet has to offer, you should start with a good understanding of what your skin is in order to decide what it needs. For instance, what works for oily skin would just exacerbate problems with dry skin. Part of the Routine A skin care routine doesn’t need a whole bunch of steps to be effective. In fact, it can be as few as two: washing and moisturizing. “Usually, a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser followed by a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer is all one needs in a skin routine,” explains says Dr. J. Mark Jackson, Clinical Professor of Dermatology at the University of Louisville. “What’s most important is choosing products that make sense for your skin; if it tends to be more on the dry side, then use more of an emollient-based moisturizing cream.”  Change with the Seasons You may find that your summertime staples just aren’t cutting it in the dead of winter. As seasons change, your skin care regimen may need to as well. “Some things don’t change seasonally, like the daily use of sunscreen,” says Dr. Jackson. “However, winter typically brings dryer air, so your routine will emphasize keeping your skin hydrated and reducing further drying. If you usually use lotions with retinol or alpha hydroxy – which can be drying – they may end up irritating or worsening dry skin during the winter months.”   Just as no two people are the same, no two skin care regimens should be the same. The key is to find a routine that works with your biology, goals, and lifestyle. If trial and error isn’t your thing, you can always visit the skin care experts at Forefront Dermatology for some guidance. To find the Forefront physician nearest you, visit the Locations page today.

Ah, the New Year. The champagne. The parties. The overwhelming compulsion to vow to become a better version of you in the coming year. While some New Year’s resolutions are pie in the sky (I’m looking at you, 30 lbs. I swore I’d drop), others, like these ridiculously simple skin care tips, are a bit more manageable. So pass the bubbly and let’s toast to a new year of brighter, healthier skin.   I Solemnly Swear to Wear Sunscreen Summer? Winter? It doesn’t matter. Sunscreen is a must. Not only is UV exposure linked to long-term damage like wrinkles and freckling, it also causes skin cancer. That alone makes it a worthwhile resolution. There’s a moisturizing sunblock for every budget. Choose one that offers broad-spectrum protection of at least SPF 30. Not only will it defend against sun damage and cancer, it’ll keep your skin soft and supple in the process. “Apply a good moisturizing sunscreen to your face every morning,” says Dr. J. Mark Jackson, Clinical Professor of Dermatology at the University of Louisville. “Chronic sun exposure damages the skin and underlying tissues – which leads to everything from skin cancer to leathering. Prevention is the key to long-term skin health.”   Start (and Sleep) with a Clean Slate Do you wash your face every morning? After a workout? Before bedtime? You should be doing all three. While washing your face first thing in the morning is fairly common, that’s usually not enough. Oil, dirt and bacteria collect during the day, which can clog your pores and cause breakouts. Wash away grime and excess makeup with a gentle cleanser before bed. Not only will it help prevent breakouts, it’ll keep your pillowcase from looking like a yesterday’s makeup Monet. And the same rings true for that post-workout refreshment.   Hands to Yourself (Not Your Face) When a blemish rears its ugly head, it’s hard to resist the urge to poke or pop the little bugger. But resist, you must. Not only does picking at your skin cause scarring, it can result in some pretty serious bacterial infections like impetigo, staph or MRSA. As if that wasn’t enough, the simple act of touching your face can introduce dirt, bacteria and oil to the skin, which clogs pores and causes even more blemishes. It’s a vicious cycle that’s worth breaking in the New Year.   Add More Moisture to the Mix Healthy skin functions like a well-oiled machine where old cells are effortlessly shed and replaced by new ones. And hydration is the secret to keeping this process moving over time. As you age, your skin produces less of the natural oils that keep it smooth, soft, and supple. Replacing that lost production with a moisturizer helps fight the long-term effects of aging, like fine lines and wrinkles.

• Moisturize within 3 minutes of bathing or washing your hands to replace the washed away oils.
• Use fragrance-free products; both scented and unscented products contain masking agents that can dry out the skin.
• Creams and balms last longer and offer better protection than lotions or gels because they contain less alcohol, a drying agent.
• Invest in a humidifier to introduce moisture to your home and reduce drying.

  Schedule a Skin Screening If you’re between the ages of 25 and 30, it’s recommended that you add a visit to the dermatologist to your routine physical – uh, routine. “Skin cancer can occur on any area of your body, not just those that are sun-exposed,” says Dr. Jackson. “Not every form of skin cancer includes obvious signs like raised, itchy, or bleeding abnormalities. In addition to keeping an eye out for moles that are changing or irregular in shape, size or color, a good full skin exam can help detect skin cancer at its most treatable early stages.” The good news is, whether it’s January 1^st or July 1^st, it’s never too late to start taking better care of your skin. All it takes is a few changes here, a little mindfulness there, and, of course, the support and guidance of the skin care experts at Forefront Dermatology. Let’s start 2016 off right. To find the Forefront physician nearest you, visit the Locations page today.

On a snowy winter day, would you leave your house without a heavy coat? How about gloves and a hat? Or lined, waterproof snow boots? No, of course not. That’s just part of being prepared for the elements. While having the right outerwear seems like best way to stay healthy and protected, one little step often goes overlooked: Sunscreen. Yes, sunscreen. Just because the days are shorter and the sky is overcast, doesn’t mean UV protection isn’t important. While many equate sunburns with hot temperatures and sunny days, you can still get a sunburn in the middle of even the harshest of winters.  How do you get a sunburn in winter? It may seem obvious, but the biggest reason why people get sunburns in winter is because they skip the sunscreen. The deceptively glum weather isn’t blocking out all of the sun’s harmful UVA and UVB rays. In fact, up to 80 percent of these rays are able to penetrate the winter cloud cover and wreak havoc on your skin. “UVA rays are sneaky,” says Dr. Peter Katz of the Forefront Dermatology clinics in Appleton and New London, Wis. “While you won’t get a sunburn from exposure to UVA rays like you do with UVB rays, they penetrate deeper into your skin, where they do a whole lot of harm. They damage collagen, which contributes to signs of aging. They cause sun damage in the form of discoloration, freckles, and liver spots. And, most importantly, they can cause cancer. Winter or summer, it doesn’t matter. Same rays. Same damage.”  What do you need to look out for? According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, the three things you need to keep in mind are reflection, altitude and wind. Reflection: That fresh blanket of snow may seem inviting, but it’s increasing your UV exposure. White is reflective, so, not only are you receiving radiation directly from the sun, you’re also exposed to radiation that has bounced off the snow’s reflective surface. Altitude: The further away from sea level you get, the greater your exposure to UV rays. For every 1,000 feet above sea level you climb, UV exposure increases 8-10 percent. For instance, the amount of radiation you absorb in Denver (alt. 5,280 ft.) is up to 50% more than what you would in Los Angeles (alt. 230 ft.). Wind: Even when you do apply sunscreen before heading outdoors, that biting winter wind is working against your due diligence. Wind alone will not increase your exposure to UV radiation. However, wind coupled with cold temperatures and abrasive ice particles will wear away any applied sunscreen, making frequent reapplication necessary. Keep your skin healthy all year long. While the thought of constant bombardment from harmful UV radiation may be a bit unsettling – especially when attempting to enjoy the winter weather – it’s easy to avoid the brunt of its attack. Before you go a-wassailing, just remember to slather on the sunscreen. For more information about the effects of UVA or UVB radiation, schedule a visit with the skin experts at Forefront Dermatology. To find the physician nearest you, visit the Locations page today.

There are two types of people: those who embrace winter and all the snow-filled adventures it has to offer, and those who eagerly anticipate the coming of, well, anything but snow. Should you fall into the former, the risk of frostbite is real. Frostbite and You “In the general population, frostbite is fairly uncommon,” says Dr. Peter Katz of the Forefront Dermatology clinics in Appleton and New London, Wis. “It’s much more common among those who do extreme outdoor sports in the winter.” Frostbite occurs when extreme temperatures cause the blood vessels in your skin to constrict. This causes your blood to avoid your extremities in order to preserve your core temperature. Eventually, through prolonged exposure, the skin tissue in the affected areas will begin to die. It usually happens slowly and progresses through four degrees of severity. The first degree, also called frostnip, only affects the top layer of your skin (the epidermis). On the onset, you may feel itching and pain, and develop white, red or yellow patches on the skin. Since only the outermost layer of skin is affected, frostnip does not typically cause any lasting damage. Should the exposure continue, the skin may harden and freeze. This second-degree frostbite usually results in blisters one to two days after exposure. The blisters may appear hard and black, but since the deep tissue was not affected in second-degree cases, looks a lot worse than it actually is. Third- and fourth-degree frostbite affects your sensitive deep tissues. The skin feels hard and waxy. Muscles, tendons, blood vessels, and nerves freeze – which may result in a permanent loss of feeling. In extreme cases, the frostbitten area may need to be amputated. Dr. Katz adds, “If you’re worried about frostbite, use lukewarm water to soak the frostbitten extremity in. If you can’t get to warm water, just try to keep it dry. The idea is to gradually warm the appendage. So avoid using things like heating pads, warming by the fire or radiator since it may further complicate things. If it – fingers, toes, nose, et cetera – turns black, you need to seek medical attention immediately.”   Tips for Frostbite-Free Adventures To make sure Jack Frost only nips at your nose, follow these helpful frostbite prevention tips:

• Bundling up is your best bet. Your skin is the most vulnerable to frostbite when left exposed. When planning on spending time outside, make sure your head and face are protected (particularly your ears and nose) and always remember to wear gloves.
• Real feel is real. What you see on the thermometer may not be what you feel when you venture outside. Biting winds and precipitation may cause the actual temperature to plummet. Before you head out, take into account the “real feel” temperature and bundle up accordingly.
• Waterproof and frostbite-free. Being cold is bad enough, but being cold and wet? Well that’s just asking for trouble. Choose waterproof outerwear to make your winter experience warm, safe and frostbite-free.
• Plan for the worst and hope for the best. Before you go dashing through the snow in your 4-door sleigh, make sure you’re prepared in case of emergency. Let someone know where you’ll be and when you should be expected to arrive at your destination, dress in layers, have an emergency blanket in your trunk and keep your cell phones charged.

  Learn More About Frostbite from Forefront Dermatology. For as scary as frostbite can be, it’s no reason why you shouldn’t go out and enjoy with snow. With a little preparation and knowledge, walking though a winter wonderland should be fun and frostbite-free. If you’d like to learn more about frostbite prevention and treatments, you can always count on the physicians at Forefront Dermatology. To find the physician nearest you, visit the Locations page today.