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Bergen County Dermatologist: Check Yourself Before You Wreck Yourself

HACKENSACK, N.J. — Margarita Lolis of Skin and Laser Surgery Specialists in Hackensack is all for fun in the sun, which is why the board certified dermatologist is offering tips for sun protection.

Margarita Lolis of Skin and Laser Surgery Specialists in Hackensack and Tenafly, coming in September.

Margarita Lolis of Skin and Laser Surgery Specialists in Hackensack and Tenafly, coming in September.

Photo Credit: contributed

Lolis' boutique practice, which is expanding to Tenafly in September, takes an intimate and comprehensive view of the body both inside and out. 

She focuses on anti-aging treatment for face and body, as well and improving one’s internal health, quality of life, and preventing age related issues, in order to create a healthier and more balanced you, she said.

Here are Lolis' five tips on sun safety:

1. Sunscreen is a must: Apply it 15 to 20 minutes before entering the sun and if you'll be in the water, reapply every two hours. Look for broad spectrum sunscreen, which will protect you from UVA and UVB rays, with an SPF between 30 to 50. Don't forget the tops of your ears, hands, feet and your scalp.

2. Consider wearing sun-protective fingerless gloves: Many people use these for driving. The sun can go through glass and damage your hands without you even realizing it, which can lead to skin cancer and cause sun spots.

3. Ditch the moisturizer with sunscreen in it: A lot of patients come to me asking if they can wear the sunscreen in their moisturizer and the answer is no, because it's diluted. You'll want to use sunscreen alone.

4. Remember the ABCDEs of melanoma, and see your dermatologist immediately if any apply:

  • Asymmetry - Melanoma lesions are often asymmetrical in shape
  • Border Irregularity - Non-cancerous moles have smooth, even borders.
  • Colors - The presence of more than one.
  • Diameter - Is it larger than a pencil eraser?
  • Evolution - Has it changed?

5. Avoid the tanning beds: Yes, it's summer, and no one wants to look pale in those bikinis, but at what cost? People who first use a tanning bed before age 35 increase their risk for melanoma by 75 percent, according to skincancer.org. The cumulative damage caused by UV radiation can lead to premature skin aging (wrinkles, lax skin, brown spots, and more), as well as skin cancer. 

CLICK HERE TO CONTACT DR. LOLIS:

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