Q:So many skin care articles seem to be about repairing damage -- what about preventing wrinkles and spots?
A: The skin care world has developed many innovative products and treatments to improve the signs of aging -- but the best investments you can make are simple, accessible and inexpensive:
• Sunscreen: Wearing sunscreen every day -- and reapplying frequently when you're in direct sun -- is the best thing you can ever do for your skin. It will prevent the wrinkles and spots you mentioned and reduce your risk of skin cancer.
• Antioxidants: Get 'em orally (Berries, pomegranates, green tea and coenzyme Q10 supplements) and topically (products that include green tea and vitamins C and E) to fight free radicals -- that's a great preventive measure for your skin.
• Retinoids: Retinoids offer the best of both worlds -- they prevent wrinkles from forming and are they've been proven to minimize existing lines. You can find retinol in over-the-counter products, but anyone particularly susceptible to lines should invest in a prescription-strength retinoid.
If you'd like to learn more, attend the University of Miami Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center's Well Being/Being Well conference April 22 at the Hotel InterContinental Miami. I'll discuss sun protection and a wide variety of speakers (including Deepak Chopra and Donna Shalala) will share their expertise. 305-243-9949 or www.sylvester.org/wellbeing/. See story, page 7
Dr. Leslie Baumann is a board-certified dermatologist at the University of Miami's Miller School of Medicine. E-mail: drb@drbaumann.com
