Angular Cheilitis Mouth Sores Explained | As Featured in Woman’s World

Have you experienced a sore in the corner of your mouth? It may be something known as angular cheilitis. Board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Mona Foad, expands upon her insights on this topic from her recent feature in Woman’s World.

What is angular cheilitis and what are the main causes?

Angular cheilitis is a condition that causes cracks or sores at the corners of the mouth, typically resulting in discomfort and irritation. The primary causes of angular cheilitis include fungal infections (especially Candida, a type of yeast) and bacterial infections, such as Streptococcus. These pathogens thrive in the moist environment around the mouth. Additionally, nutritional deficiencies—particularly in iron, zinc, and B vitamins like B2 (riboflavin) and B3 (niacin)—can contribute to the condition, as these nutrients are important for maintaining healthy skin. Moisture buildup, such as drooling during sleep, also plays a role in creating a favorable environment for these infections. While stress doesn’t directly cause angular cheilitis, it may exacerbate behaviors like lip licking or biting, which can worsen the condition. Seasonal changes, especially in colder months, can increase susceptibility due to drier skin, making it more prone to cracking.

Are there any features or preconditions that may make us more susceptible to angular cheilitis?

Certain factors may make individuals more prone to angular cheilitis. For example, those with deeper skin folds around the mouth—whether due to facial structure or age—are more likely to develop this condition. This is because the folds can trap moisture and promote infection. Individuals with a history of eczema or other conditions that compromise the skin barrier are also at higher risk. This is because their skin is already more vulnerable to irritation and infection. Those who wear dentures or experience excessive drooling during sleep may also be at increased risk.

In most cases, angular cheilitis is benign and can be treated with simple interventions like moisturizing creams. However, if the condition becomes recurrent or persistent, it may signal an underlying health issue, such as diabetes or immune system deficiencies. Consulting a healthcare provider is recommended if the condition doesn’t resolve with basic care.

Are perimenopausal or menopausal women more prone to angular cheilitis?

Perimenopausal and menopausal women may be more susceptible to angular cheilitis due to hormonal changes that lead to drier skin. As estrogen levels decline during menopause, the skin becomes thinner and less able to retain moisture. As a result, it is more prone to cracks and irritation. This is especially true in areas such as around the mouth. To manage this risk, it’s important to use hydrating skincare products. You should also ensure adequate intake of vitamins that support skin health including zinc, biotin, and B vitamins. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) or other treatments designed to address menopause-related skin changes may also help. However, it’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.

How can you treat angular cheilitis?

Treating angular cheilitis involves addressing both the symptoms and underlying causes. Keeping the affected area moisturized is essential, and thick moisturizers, such as petroleum jelly or lanolin, work well to lock in moisture, particularly during sleep when saliva can pool in the corners of the mouth. If the condition is caused by a fungal or bacterial infection, topical antifungal or antibiotic creams may be necessary. You may need to get a prescription from your dermatologist or primary care physician. If nutritional deficiencies are contributing, increasing intake of key nutrients—like zinc, iron, and B vitamins—can help support skin healing and prevent future flare-ups. To minimize moisture buildup, consider adjusting your sleeping position or using a protective balm before bed. If the condition persists or recurs frequently, consulting a dermatologist is recommended to rule out other potential causes and to receive more targeted treatment.

Toasted Skin Syndrome | As Featured in PopSugar & Fox News

The phenomenon of ‘Toasted Skin Syndrome’ has recently been trending online. Board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Alexandra Bowles, is here to break down the science behind it. Her insights on this topic were recently featured by PopSugar and Fox News: Today, we’re rounding up everything you need to know to prevent and treat toasted skin syndrome.

What is toasted skin syndrome? How is it caused?

Toasted skin syndrome, or erythema ab igne, is a skin condition that develops when the skin is exposed to heat for extended periods. Common heat sources include heating pads, hot water bottles, or laptops placed directly on the skin. This exposure results in a mottled, reddish-brown discoloration that can worsen and even become permanent over time if not addressed.

Why does it happen?

This condition occurs when the skin is repeatedly exposed to heat that is high enough to dilate blood vessels but not intense enough to cause burns. While it might seem harmless at first, repeated exposure can lead to permanent damage to the skin’s deeper layers. This can result in visible discoloration. In rare cases, an increased risk of skin cancer can occur due to cellular changes caused by heat.

How can someone prevent it from happening?

To avoid toasted skin syndrome, it’s important to limit prolonged, direct contact between your skin and heat sources. For example, always place a barrier, such as a cloth, between your skin and a heating pad. Avoid placing laptops directly on your lap for extended periods. These simple precautions can help minimize the risk of long-term damage.

How can we treat toasted skin syndrome if it occurs?

If you notice discoloration or textural changes in your skin, stop exposing the area to heat immediately. In mild cases, the discoloration may fade on its own if the heat source is removed. For more persistent or severe cases, a dermatologist may recommend treatments such as topical retinoids to help improve skin texture and pigmentation. Catching and treating potential issues early can help prevent long-term skin damage.

Skin Types 101

Just as we all have different personalities, the way that our skin behaves can vary from person to person. While everyone’s skin is unique, there are a few skin types that most people fall into. Knowing your skin type can be incredibly helpful when deciding what products to use and how best to care for your skin. Dr. Alexandra Bowles, board-certified dermatologist at Mona Dermatology, shares how to identify skin types and most importantly, how to best take care of them.

Not sure which skin type you have? Take the quiz to find out!

1. How would you describe the appearance of your skin at the end of the day?

a. Dry or flaky

b. Shiny or oily

c. Shiny in some areas (such as T-zone), but matte/flaky in other areas

d. Red or irritated

2. How do your pores look?

a. Small and spaced out

b. Large and densely packed

c. Small in some areas but larger in others (such as the nose or T zone)

d. Moderate to large in size and reactive to various triggers such as products, foods, heat

3. If you cleanse your skin but don’t apply products afterwards, how does your skin feel after a few minutes?

a. Tight or dry

b. Greasy or oily

c. Tight in some areas, but greasy in others

d. Hot, stinging, burning, or red

Add up your answers, see which letter you answered most frequently, and match it up with a skin type below! This quiz may not accurately diagnose your skin type, so it’s best to schedule a visit with your dermatologist to be sure.

Skin Types Quiz Answer Key:

Mostly A: Dry Skin
Mostly B: Oily Skin
Mostly C: Combination Skin
Mostly D: Sensitive Skin

Skincare Tips by Skin Types

The key to great skin starts with the basics! Everyone should use a broad-spectrum sunscreen in their daily skincare routine to protect against UV damage, which can cause both skin cancer and premature aging. If you’re looking for increased anti-aging benefits, incorporating products such as growth factors, antioxidants, or retinoids into your routine can be a great choice. Your cleanser and moisturizer is where your skin type can make a big difference. Dr. Bowles shares her favorites below, along with other tips to best care for your unique skin type.

Dry Skin

Hydrate from within! Making sure we maintain healthy moisture levels in our skin is a must, especially for those with dry skin. First and foremost, be sure to drink plenty of water! I also love incorporating a hyaluronic acid product into your skincare routine, as it is a humectant, meaning it retains moisture. To seal the skin and promote a healthy skin barrier, I recommend using a cream moisturizer as opposed to a lighter lotion. Lastly, be sure not to over-exfoliate or overuse retinoids as these can dry out your skin if not used carefully.

Dr. Bowles’ Product Picks: SkinMedica HA5 Hydra Collagen and SkinMedica Dermal Repair Cream.

Oily Skin

If you have oily skin, you may be able to tolerate a gel or foaming cleanser to clean your skin and I recommend using an exfoliating cleanser 1-2 times per week at most. Incorporating a retinol can also help to control oil production. Lastly, be sure to use a moisturizer both in the morning and at night! I commonly see patients with oily skin not moisturizing appropriately; however, this can have the opposite effect and actually cause your skin to produce more oil. For oily skin, keeping your skin balanced and moisturized is key. Dr. Bowles’ Product Picks: SkinMedica AHA/BHA Cleanser and SkinMedica Ultra Sheer Moisturizer.

Combination Skin

Combination skin can be tricky because you have both dry and oily skin! I recommend that my patients cleanse their skin daily with a gentle cleanser intended for combination skin. Some patients will also benefit from applying retinol in oily areas such as the T- zone while applying hyaluronic acid to the dry areas such as the cheeks. Finishing your skincare routine with an overall light moisturizer is a must to lock in that moisture.

Dr. Bowles’ Product Picks: La Roche-Posay Effaclar Gel Cleanser and Avène Tolérance Control Cream.

Sensitive Skin

Sensitive skin is a skin type that varies heavily from one person to another. I find it incredibly important for those with sensitive skin to keep the skin barrier healthy and happy with overall gentle products, gentle cleansers, and cream moisturizers. In addition, it is important to minimize skincare that can be irritating such as exfoliants, retinols, and cosmetics. It is important to work with your dermatologist to find the products that are right for you and pinpoint what makes your skin sensitive.

Dr. Bowles’ Product Picks: Avène Xeracalm Cleansing Oil and SkinMedica Replenish Hydrating Cream.

Overall, each skin type can be treated in a variety of ways and should be addressed personally. The best way to ensure you’re properly caring for your unique skin type is to schedule an appointment with a dermatologist! We know that every patient’s skin has different needs and the best skincare is individualized. At Mona Dermatology, our providers combine both medical and cosmetic dermatology to give you the most comprehensive product and treatment options for your skin. You can schedule a visit with one of our providers online at monadermatology.com or by calling 513.984.4800.

You can read the full article “Skin Types 101” via Cincinnati Magazine’s Issuu.

Teen Skincare Secrets & Teen Acne Tips

Is your teen skincare obsessed? Local board-certified dermatologist Dr. Mona S. Foad shares her top tips for teens, including what products they should (and shouldn’t) be using, the science behind acne breakouts (including teen acne tips), and when it may be time to seek help from a professional.

Teen Skincare Simplified

Back to Basics

If your teen wants to begin a skincare routine, it’s best to start simple with a cleanser, moisturizer, sunscreen, antioxidant, and potentially a retinol if needed. These products are the foundation for a great skincare routine. Specialty products can be added in, as needed or desired, from there.

Use Caution with Actives

Ingredients like benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, glycolic acid, or retinol can be helpful in moderation (especially for acne-prone skin). However, using too many active ingredients in combination can damage the skin barrier and cause dryness and irritation. Keep an eye on the products your teen is buying, and educate them on the importance of using only one or two products with active ingredients at a time. If your teen experiences burns, irritation, rashes, or dryness, consult a professional, such as a dermatologist. It could be that they are having an allergic reaction to the products or they are using too many products that are drying out their skin and disturbing the natural microbiome of a healthy skin barrier.

Limit Variety

While popular skincare products can look cute and be fun to try out, they could also cause more harm than good. When trying out multiple new products at once, it can be hard to pinpoint if one of them is causing breakouts or irritation. It is especially important to use caution if your skin is sensitive or acne-prone. If you enjoy adding variety to your skincare routine, try to stick to switching out products such as gentle cleansers, lightweight moisturizers, or mineral-based sunscreens. While there is always a risk of irritation when introducing a new product, these are generally tolerated by most skin types.

Teen Acne Tips: CAUSES

Hair Follicles

At all ages, acne breakouts begin when small pores in our skin, known as hair follicles, become blocked or inflamed. We also have sebaceous glands attached to these hair follicles, which produce oil.

Clogged Pores

Sweat, makeup, dirt, oil, or dead skin cells can build up and clog the hair follicle over time. At the same time, bacteria can create inflammation in the hair follicles. These factors can contribute to the formation of breakouts.In addition to these typical causes of acne, changes in our hormones and oil glands during puberty can make acne more severe.

Oil Glands

When teens go through puberty, hormones cause existing oil glands within the hair follicles to enlarge. This causes an increase in oil production within the cells of the hair follicle canal. This increase in oil often causes whiteheads or blackheads to form.

Bacteria

During puberty, there is also an increase in the production of acne-causing bacteria. This can cause whiteheads or blackheads to become more inflamed. If this inflamed material cannot be released, it can break down into the skin and cause deeper cystic lesions to form.Your teen’s acne could be rooted in any of these causes (or more likely, a combination of them). For this reason, patients often require a few different treatment strategies used together to achieve the best results.

Teen Acne Tips: Treatments

Treat the Bacteria

Using benzoyl peroxide, topical antibiotics, or oral antibiotics can all help to treat the bacterial component of acne. By reducing the acne-causing bacteria, inflammation within the hair follicle can improve.

Increase Cell Turnover

Consider using a topical over-the-counter retinol or prescription retinoids such as Retin-A, Differin, or Tazorac. These will help increase cellular turnover and normalize the top layer of skin. This helps to prevent blackheads and whiteheads from forming.

Unclog Pores

If you sweat or wear makeup, make sure you are washing your face to prevent buildup from accumulating within the hair follicle. Adding a topical acid, such as salicylic acid or glycolic acid, will help exfoliate your skin further.

Normalize Hormones

Birth control pills or spironolactone (for women) are two ways to help target the hormonal component of acne.

Accutane

Accutane is a vitamin A derivative that can be used if necessary to help shrink the oil gland within the hair follicle. This medication should only be prescribed by a trained professional and requires lab monitoring.

In-Office Treatments

At Mona Dermatology, we have several treatment options that can treat the causes of acne, such as normalizing the skin or killing bacteria. Our favorites include the BBL Hero “Forever Clear” acne treatment, chemical peels, and the Diamond Glow facial.

CONSULT AN EXPERT

Constantly trying out new skincare products or combing the wrong ones can be a recipe for a skin disaster. It’s important to make sure your teen is caring for their skin properly, but it can be challenging to know what they are using.

At Mona Dermatology, we offer teen skincare consultations that are the perfect place to start! Your teen will be treated to a 45-minute visit, including VISIA Skin Imaging, an in-depth education on the basics of a good skincare regimen, and a complimentary skincare travel bag. They will leave with a basic understanding of what products are harmless to experiment with and which they should avoid combining, so they can have fun with skincare safely. Schedule a teen skincare consult by calling 513.984.4800.

Mohs Surgery 101

Mona Dermatology is excited to announce a new provider and a new service offering this fall, thanks to the addition of local Mohs surgeon, Dr. Kasie Kudrewicz Adkins.

Have you or a loved one ever had skin cancer on your face? Then, you may have been referred to a Mohs surgeon to have this treated. Mona Dermatology is now offering Mohs surgery, in addition to our existing cosmetic and medical dermatology services.

What is Mohs surgery?

Mohs surgery is a type of outpatient skin cancer surgery, named for its founder, Dr. Frederic E. Mohs. This specialized type of surgery allows a these surgeons to completely remove skin cancer cells while minimizing damage to the surrounding healthy skin. Undergoing Mohs surgery is very safe and only uses local anesthesia. Mohs surgery is the most effective way to treat non-melanoma skin cancers with a five-year cure rate of more than 98%!

How does Mohs surgery work?

Your surgical team will begin by making sure you are comfortable, prepping the area for surgery, and numbing the area with a local anesthetic. Then, the Mohs surgeon will begin by gently removing thin layers of the cancerous tissue. They will examine the layers of tissue under a microscope to confirm that all cancerous cells have been removed. Your surgeon will continue this process until the cancerous lesion has been removed completely and only healthy skin remains. This technique is what makes Mohs surgery beneficial. It is highly precise and only removes small amounts of tissue at a time. It requires your surgeon to be highly specialized. They must act as both a surgeon and pathologist at the same time.

Who is a candidate?

The precise technique of Mohs surgery is often recommended for cosmetically important areas. This includes the face, ears, nose, fingers or toes. It also is recommended in certain cases if skin cancer is recurrent, at a high risk for recurrence, aggressive, fast growing, or large, if it has indistinct borders, or if the patient is immunosuppressed.

If you have a suspicious spot that has not yet been diagnosed by your dermatologist, it is best to begin by scheduling a spot check or complete skin exam online or by calling the office at 513.984.4800

What Is a Seborrheic Keratosis?

Seborrheic keratoses affect us all at one point or another. What are these skin growths, how do you identify them, and what are your next steps if one appears? Whether you’re wondering about the unfamiliar spots popping up on your skin or just want to be prepared, our well-trained providers are here to answer all your seborrheic keratosis questions.

What is a seborrheic keratosis?

A seborrheic keratosis is a benign skin lesion. This means they are not at risk of developing into a cancerous lesion. If you see one, don’t panic! These spots are common, like a mole or sun spot, so plenty of patients have them. While they sometimes can look suspicious, or in some cases even look like skin cancer, they are harmless. Doctors don’t all agree on what causes them to appear, but new research has linked seborrheic keratosis growth to genetic mutations, changes in estrogen levels, and sun exposure. While more research is needed to understand their cause, we know they are epidermal tumors. This means they are made up of excess clumps of cells in the skin’s outermost layer.

Am I at risk for developing seborrheic keratosis?

Although people of all ages are susceptible, a seborrheic keratosis appears most commonly during middle to late adulthood. More than 90% of people over the age of 65 have at least one. These growths affect men and women equally, but other demographic factors — like skin tone — play a role. Generally, you are more likely to develop a seborrheic keratosis if you…

Have a family history
Have fair skin
Are pregnant
Have taken hormone therapy
Have a FGFR3 or PIK3CA genetic mutation
Spend a significant amount of time in the sun

How can you identify a seborrheic keratosis?

Seborrheic keratoses come in all shapes and sizes. In part one of her series on benign skin growths, Jessica, PA-C teaches us that these particular growths can be any shade of brown, ranging from light tan to black. As for shape, they can be raised or flat, and their texture ranges from rough to waxy. It’s important to note that location can vary depending on skin color: for those with darker skin, seborrheic keratoses usually appear around the eyes, while those with fair to medium skin usually find them on the torso, neck, face, or scalp. They never appear on the palms or soles of the feet.

What should you do if you have one?

The trickiest thing about a seborrheic keratosis is that it can resemble other cancerous and benign tumors, including melanoma. We recommend scheduling a skin check with an experienced provider who is well-trained in distinguishing between different types of skin growths. That way you can feel comfortable knowing that your skin is healthy and has no potentially dangerous spots, lumps, or bumps.

Seborrheic keratoses are not going to harm you, so there is no medical reason for a removal. However, if removing your spots will give you a confidence boost or minimize discomfort in a high-friction area, our providers can help! There are three common treatment avenues:

Gently scraping them off of the skin’s surface
Lightly burning them with an electric current
Freezing them with liquid nitrogen

Mona Dermatology’s experienced team usually employs the freezing method. Click here to schedule a cosmetic appointment and discuss a treatment plan with one of our providers!

Skincare Hacks

Skincare is more than just a routine; it’s how you practice self-care and make yourself feel good. In our busy lives, finding quick and effective skincare methods is essential. Whether you’re dealing with sun damage, skin breakouts, or early signs of aging, skincare hacks can be a game changer. Jessica, PA-C, has just the tips for you! Explore these skincare hacks and see how small changes can make a big difference in your daily routine and make things easier.

Double Cleansing 101

What is double cleansing?

You may have seen the double-cleansing trend on social media. Jessica, PA-C, shares why it’s a great habit to add to your routine. A gentle cleanser is the best choice for most skin types, but on its own, it may not be enough to remove makeup and excess dirt, pollutants, and oil that your skin may be exposed to during the day. By double cleansing, you can ensure you are removing all of these impurities while still treating your skin with gentle products.

How do I double cleanse?

Jessica, PA-C, recommends starting with an oil-based cleanser or micellar water. Your second cleanser will vary depending on your skin type. For example, if you have more oily skin, Jessica, PA-C, recommends a foaming cleanser, and if you have dryer skin, she suggests trying a cream or water-based cleanser. If you aren’t sure what skin type you are or which cleanser will be best for your skin, take our cleanser quiz! If you want a deeper dive into the right products for your skin, schedule a consultation with one of our providers.

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Sunscreen Application Made Easy

Are you someone who dreads putting on your sunscreen? Jessica, PA-C, understands your pain and has just the tip for making daily sunscreen application more enjoyable. As we know, wearing sunscreen daily is one of the best ways to prevent premature aging. Jessica loves using a foundation brush instead of her hand to make sunscreen application easier. Her favorite sunscreen to pair with this tip is ColoreScience Glow! She puts the sunscreen on the brush and then applies it to her face for a smooth, even application. ColoreScience Glow, or any tinted facial sunscreen, is the perfect lightweight substitute for traditional foundation makeup with the added benefit of extra sun protection!

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Prevent Wrinkles As You Sleep

Could the way you sleep be causing your wrinkles?

Can the way you sleep cause wrinkles? Jessica, PA-C, shares her insights on this trending topic and why the way you sleep could be causing those pesky vertical lines on your face. If you commonly sleep on your stomach or side, you may be more prone to these wrinkles. Sleeping this way squishes your face, creating vertical wrinkles over time.

How to prevent wrinkles when sleeping:

Jessica, PA-C, encourages you to sleep on your back instead of your side or stomach. She recommends this because it prevents your face from being compressed by the pillow and, in turn, helps prevent the vertical lines from appearing on your face. If you have difficulty sleeping on your back, Jessica, PA-C, suggests using a trainer pillow. These specialty pillows will help you learn how to sleep comfortably on your back over time. Another option is wearing silicone patches to sleep to help minimize creases. Jessica, PA-C’s favorite silicone patches are Frownies, Sio, and Wrinkles Schmickles.

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Sun Protection From Within

Did you know there are other ways to protect your skin from the sun beyond sunscreen? Everyone has that fear of missing a spot when applying sunscreen. Adding Sun ISDIN as a supplement will help neutralize the free radical damage from the sun and boost your protection. However, it is essential to note that it is not a substitute for sunscreen! Sun ISDIN is a great supplement or a layer of protection in addition to still applying your daily sunscreen.

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Vitamins for Improved Skin Cancer Prevention

You may be someone who has had multiple skin cancers, or you may know someone who is commonly treated with skin cancers every time they visit the dermatologist. Jessica, PA-C, understands your struggles and has a safe and effective way to help reduce your risks. Consider adding a simple B vitamin into your routine, which can help. When this is taken twice a day, vitamin B3, also known as niacinamide, has been shown in multiple studies to decrease the risk of skin cancers. Check with your doctor and get approval before adding vitamin B3 to your routine. This supplement is very well tolerated for most patients with minimal to no side effects.

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Our Passion for Skin Cancer Prevention

As seen in the May 2023 issue of Cincinnati Magazine.

Dr. Mona S. Foad and Dr. Alexandra Bowles from Mona Dermatology in Kenwood share how they found their passion for preventative care and why you should be getting your skin checked annually.

Dr. Mona Foad

I remember it like it was yesterday. I walked into the patient room, where I was greeted by a friendly middle aged man with a big smile. He was a little nervous because he had never had a complete skin exam before and was worried about a spot on his back he was told had changed. I started looking at his skin, but my heart sank once I got to his back. Immediately, I biopsied the red, black and brown 1 cm growth staring at me, and hoped that this was not the melanoma I suspected. I wish I had been wrong.

Over the next year, I saw him every 3 months for skin exams and read the reports from his oncologist. I know he fought this disease, but in the end, it was a fight he could not win. Melanoma can be a fatal disease, but with yearly skin exams, we can catch atypical moles, melanomas and other skin cancers before they have a chance to evolve and cause devastation. I may not be able to bring him back to his family and loved ones, but I hope I can encourage people to get yearly skin exams and be aware that early detection is the key.

Dr. Alexandra Bowles

Knowing the signs and symptoms of skin cancer is vital! Living and training in Miami, Florida strengthened my passion for skin cancer prevention. It provided me with intense exposure to the diagnosis and treatment of various skin cancers. I love seeing my patients learn and embrace new habits to be more sun safe, especially after a skin cancer diagnosis. Educating my patients on how to be sun safe is one of my favorite parts of dermatology!

Regardless of skin type, everyone can benefit from learning how to care for our skin properly. It always begins with protecting it from the sun. Wearing sunscreen, utilizing SPF protective clothing, getting annual skin exams, and limiting sun exposure during the time of day with the highest UV index are a few great ways to be sun safe. I can’t wait to bring my experience and passion for dermatology to the patients of Cincinnati!

Fast Facts:

1 in 5 people will develop skin cancer by the age of 70
Having 5 or more sunburns doubles your risk of melanoma
When detected early, the 5-year survival rate for melanoma is 99%

*Facts via Skin Cancer Foundation

Visit monadermatology.com to schedule your yearly complete skin exam or learn more about skin cancer prevention.

The Best Moisturizers for Glowing Skin | Featured In Glamour

Dr. Mona Foad and Dr. Alexandra Bowles expand upon the insights they shared in Glamour’s most recent article on “The Best Moisturizers for Glowing Skin.”

Dr. Mona Foad and Dr. Alexandra Bowles insights on the best moiturizers for glowing skin

What moisturizer do you most recommend for glowing skin?

Dr. Mona Foad

When looking for a moisturizer, I first start by asking what type of skin someone has. Are they oily, normal, sensitive, or dry? For someone who is oily, I tend to suggest lightweight humectant-rich gel or lotion moisturizers. These are helpful because they are not going to block their pores and cause them to break out. If someone is more dry, I look for more humectant-rich creams or oils to help seal in their moisture. Moisturizers help to lock in moisture and keep your skin barrier in tip-top shape. Without the right one for you, you can develop breakouts or your skin may get irritated.

However, moisturizers are only part of the answer to more “glowy skin.”. You should evaluate why your skin is not glowing. Possible reasons may include:

Your skin is more dry: You may need to add in a topical hyaluronic acid to build hydration.
You are getting older: Your cellular turnover has slowed down, leading to a more dull appearance.
Environmental damage: Factors such as sun exposure and pollution that have caused you to lose that youthful glow.

A moisturizer is very important to lock in and seal your own hydration. To truly achieve more glowing skin, I recommend adding in skin care products that target changes in your skin. These include hyaluronic acid, exfoliants, antioxidants, retinol, and sunscreen.

Dr. Alexandra Bowles

When I hear patients requesting glowy skin, I like to educate them that it’s not just about what you’re putting on top of the skin, but also how well you’re taking care of your skin holistically. My top tips for caring for your skin include:

Stay hydrated
Use sunscreen to avoid UV damage
Use proper active ingredients such as antioxidants and retinoids when appropriate
Seal all of those healthy skin cells in with a moisturizer that helps bring out that hydrated, glowy look

First and foremost, I always recommend a hyaluronic acid-based serum. Skinmedica’s HA5 Rejuvenating Hydrator has 5 types of hyaluronic acid, each working with your skin to help draw moisture into the skin and lock it in. I like this serum specifically because I think it does a great job of providing that glowy look with an elegant finish that looks great alone or layers well under makeup. For a more affordable option, Vichy Mineral 89 Serum is also a HA-based serum that I love, especially as a base for my more dry patients, such as those taking isotretinoin.

To seal these serums in, I recommend a cream-based moisturizer. My favorite is the Skinmedica Dermal Repair Cream. It has a light finish and leaves the skin glowing. For a drugstore option, CeraVe Facial Moisturizer is a great option. They have both an AM and PM version, one with SPF and one without.

What other products should we use to promote glowing skin?

Dr. Mona Foad

Hyaluronic acid (HA) acts as a “water grabber” and is important for building your skin’s hydration, or water content. Without enough HA, your skin will be drier and therefore look less glowing. As we get older, we lose our ability to make HA. For this reason, adding it to your skincare routine becomes even more important. My favorite is SkinMedica’s HA5 which has 5 cross-linked hyaluronic acids. This helps your skin build its own hyaluronic acid rather than just adding it topically.

Our skin has a natural shedding process. As we get older, this slows down and can lead to dull, dry, and rough skin. Using exfoliants appropriate for your skin type is a great way to gently shed the top layer of dead skin. This gentle exfoliation can help unclog pores, smooth skin, and reveal healthier glowing skin below. They also help other products penetrate the skin better so they can be more effective. There are many options ranging from alpha, beta, and polyhydroxy acids.

I always encourage a topical antioxidant to help fight environmental damage such as UV rays, pollution, and blue light. These environmental aggressors can make your skin look more dull and cause your skin to age. Vitamin C is the most well-known and common antioxidant. It helps to brighten your skin, protect against UV damage, and help build collagen.

Retinols or a prescription Retin-A can help to stimulate cellular turnover and have the added anti-aging benefit of helping with collagen production. Both of these processes help with overall skin health and appearance.

I would be remiss if I did not mention sunscreen! Make sure that you wear sunscreen daily to protect your skin from the most common cause of photodamage, the sun.

What is the best moisturizer for dry skin?

Dr. Mona Foad

Moisturizers are made up of humectants, emollients, and occlusives. If you have more dry skin, you will want to consider humectant-rich creams over lotions and add oils to your routine when needed, such as squalene oil. You may also want to consider occlusives, such as Vaseline or Aquaphor, to aid areas that are especially dry or flaking. I tend to suggest fragrance-free products to avoid any potential irritation. I like Avene Tolerance Control Soothing Recovery Balm as a more affordable option for sensitive skin. Additionally, SkinMedica’s TNS Ceramide Treatment Cream is a heavier cream that is great for very dry skin thanks to its added ceramides.

Dr. Alexandra Bowles

For dry skin, I recommend a cream-based moisturizer. I really like Cerave Cream Moisturizer for the body because it has a thick cream vehicle full of ceramides and hyaluronic acid to help improve the hydration of the skin and keep the skin barrier happy and healthy. It comes in a big tub that makes application a breeze. It is also a great option for sensitive skin as it was designed by dermatologists and is accepted by the National Eczema Association.

One thing I think a lot of patients miss is that you want to prevent dry skin, not just treat it after it happens. To help lock in moisture and prevent dry skin, I recommend moisturizing daily, preferably immediately following showering. By preventing dry skin, you’re also improving the integrity of the skin barrier and preventing micro-cracks and tears that can lead to chapped skin or flare-ups of other issues such as eczema.

For dry or cracked hands, I recommend the Norwegian Formula Hand Cream from Neutrogena. For dry lips, I recommend Vaseline or Aquaphor. I prefer these as they are very gentle and provide an occlusive-like moisturization without dyes or perfumes that can irritate the lips.

Identifying Skin Cancer Spots

May is Melanoma and Skin Cancer Awareness Month and the team at Mona Dermatology in Kenwood is sharing their top tips to be sun smart and recognize skin cancer spots this summer!

Dr. Mona’s Sun Smart Tips

Get a complete skin exam with your dermatologist yearly
Do your own skin checks regularly
Wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen
Avoid mid-day sun 10am-2pm
Wear a broad-brimmed hat
Consider wearing UPF clothing for added protection

Types of Skin Cancer:

Basal Cell Carcinoma

Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer with over 1 million diagnosed per year.

When found early, this skin cancer is highly treatable. An early basal cell carcinoma can often be removed during an appointment with your dermatologist.

Photo of a basal cell carcinoma.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Squamous cell carcinoma is the second most common type of skin cancer.

Chronic sun exposure is a risk factor for developing a squamous cell carcinoma.

Finding this skin cancer early is important so that we can treat it before it grows deeper into the skin and has a chance to spread.

Melanoma

Melanoma arises from the pigment producing cells in your body called melanocytes. These cells give color to your skin and are what make up your moles. Melanoma can arise from a pre-existing mole or can develop on your normal skin as a new growth.

While fewer people get melanoma than the other types of skin cancer, developing melanoma can be more serious because it is more likely to spread to other parts of the body.

Although melanoma is an aggressive cancer, early detection is key because early detection translates into a higher cure rate.

ABCDE’s of Melanoma

A – Asymmetry

Moles should be symmetrical, not asymmetrical. Each half should be like the other.

B – Border

Moles should be round or oval and not have irregular borders.

C – Color

Each mole should be a single color, not multiple colors or darker than the other moles on your body.

D – Diameter or Different

Moles should be smaller than a pencil eraser and should not be growing in size. They also should not be different than your other moles. Look for the “ugly duckling mole” that does not fit with the rest of your moles.

E – Evolving

Moles should not be changing in color, size, or shape.