Latest news with #HowardSobel
Yahoo
04-07-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
We're Dermatologists: Here's Exactly How We Protect Our Skin During A Day At The Beach
If you're even remotely concerned about your health, you probably pack a bottle of sunscreen, a sun hat and maybe an umbrella for a day at the beach. But if you ask a dermatologist how they do a day at the beach, things are leveled up. To protect your skin against the dangers of skin cancer — and even if you think you're immune from skin cancer, maybe the threat of wrinkles and sun spots will convince you — take a cue from these experts. If you've had the time to plan ahead, think about how your current skin products will react to a day of sun. 'I avoid applying certain products that can increase sun sensitivity, such as retinols and retinoids,' said dermatologist Dr. Regine J. Mathieu. 'At a minimum, skip them the day before, day of and the day after going to the beach, to decrease risk of irritation.' Next, you'll want to make sure everyone applies sunscreen well before leaving the house. 'I use SPF 30 or higher, and I always apply it at least 15 minutes before going outside,' said dermatologist Dr. Nada Elbuluk. And this is not just a quick rub here and there — these docs are thorough when applying that protective layer. 'I make sure not to forget my ears, my hands and the tops of my feet,' said dermatologist Dr. Claire Wolinsky. Dermatologist Dr. Howard Sobel, who often brings his kids to the beach, pays particular attention to the area under the eyes when applying sunscreen. 'That area can burn quickly, especially in children,' he said. They check the weather report, too. 'I usually check the UV index first,' said dermatologist Dr. Mojgan Hosseinipour. 'It provides a daily forecast of the expected intensity of UV radiation from the sun. I avoid the outdoors when the UV index is high to very high.' 'Sunscreen is protective, but clothing and hats provide greater protection, so I always cover myself as much as possible,' Wolinsky said. Elbuluk mentioned wearing sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat. 'Our family wears shirts, pants, hats and swimwear that feature Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF), which is designed to block or absorb UV rays, preventing them from penetrating the fabric and reaching skin,' Hosseinipour said. 'It's convenient because it doesn't require reapplication of sunscreen on covered areas, which can be challenging with younger kids.' Dermatologist Dr. Ellen Marmur, founder of MMSkincare, said: 'I always wear a wide-brimmed hat, polarized sunglasses, long flowy pants and a long-sleeved blouse if it's early in the day. Later in the day, my hat switches to a Coolibar with the snap-on flaps that cover my neck — very Sahara desert chic — and I wear a sunshirt that's UPF 50.' 'I always follow the advice of my wife, who is from Australia, where their skin cancer prevention slogan is 'slip (shirt), slap (hat) and slop (sunscreen),'' said dermatologist Dr. Kenneth Mark. 'I wear my bathing suit and a long-sleeve Quicksilver or Buoy shirt.' Other favorite brands for UPF garb? Sobel is a fan of the Coolibar and Solbari UPF lines. Dermatologist Dr. Hadley King said, 'I've been loving the rashguards from Lemlem and the sun hats from Janessa Leone, which both offer stylish options for sun protection.' 'I avoid peak UV hours by spending time at the beach either in the early morning or close to sunset,' said King. 'It's cooler then, too, and less crowded.' 'I typically arrive at the beach after 3 p.m., when the UV index is moderate or less,' Hosseinipour said. 'In general, I aim to be outside when the UV index is low, to prevent any sun-related harm to my skin.' 'I like to face the water instead of facing the sun, to minimize direct sunlight,' said Mark. Hosseinipour said she looks for shady areas for her family. 'Whether it's finding the shadows created by the lifeguard stand or palm trees, or setting up our UPF umbrella, we're never sitting under direct sun,' she added. 'I bring a blanket or towel to sit on,' said Mathieu. 'According to the World Health Organization, sand can reflect UV radiation up to 10 to 15%, so covering surrounding sand with a protective barrier is not only a comfortable way to avoid the discomfort of sitting on hot sand, but has UV protective benefits as well.' 'I prefer a cabana situation because it's difficult to guarantee shade with an umbrella, particularly if it's windy,' King said. Marmur is also a fan. 'My family uses one of the new super easy tents from CoolCabanas,' she said. 'You need to reapply sunscreen every two hours, or any time after water exposure,' Hosseinipour said. Why two hours? 'Research has shown that after we sweat, sunscreen washes off, which results in a patchy droplet appearance on the skin,' she said. 'The sunscreen redistributes itself on the skin, leading to excessive amounts of sunscreen in some locations and minimal amounts of sunscreen in others. With the redistribution, UV radiation penetrates the skin where sunscreen is no longer present.' Making sure everyone reapplies sunscreen can be a challenge, but Elbuluk had a smart suggestion: Set a timer to remind yourself every two hours. 'I avoid bringing lemon or lime wedges for beverages, to avoid something called phytophotodermatitis, which is a burn and/or hyperpigmentation at the areas of skin exposed to citrus juice and UV rays,' Wolinsky said. 'I pack high-water-content snacks like grapes, cucumbers, tomatoes and watermelon, since it's important to stay hydrated while out in the sun,' Mathieu said. 'Water is my go-to beverage of choice, but I also like to pack drinks containing electrolytes. Even a few hours out in the sun can result in dehydration.' Time in the sun is brief for these experts. 'I'll take a long walk, read under the umbrella or go for a quick swim in the waves,' Marmur said. 'I never lie out in the sun for more than five minutes to warm up, and even then I have a hat on and a towel draped on my legs.' They also limit the time of the outing. For Hosseinipour, it's about two to three hours. Mathieu said, 'I stay at the beach approximately three to four hours, depending on arrival time.' For Sobel, it's no more than five hours. 'There's an umbrella up whenever possible, and we always take a shaded lunch break from noon to 2, which is when the sun is strongest,' he said. 'When I get home, I like to double cleanse with micellar water and cleanser for my face to remove all the sunscreen residue,' Wolinsky said. 'I shower to wash off sunscreen, sand and salt water, and then I apply moisturizer for face and body.' HuffPost and its publishing partners may receive a commission from some purchases made via links on this page. Every item is independently curated by the HuffPost Shopping team. Prices and availability are subject to change. Dermstore If you're looking for a sunscreen that doubles as anti-aging skin care, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Sonia Badreshia-Bansal recommended the EltaMD UV Restore sunscreen. She said, "sunscreens that combine physical blockers with antioxidants like niacinamide, vitamin C, or DNA-repair enzymes" can help combat oxidative stress and visible signs of aging. This particular SPF has with squalane and ginger root extract, both of which support skin health and appearance. $46 at Dermstore $46 at Amazon Sephora The cult-fave Australian brand Ultra Violette is finally available in the US at Sephora! If anyone knows how to protect their skin from harmful rays, it's Southern Hemisphere-dwelling Australians. I stock up on their sunscreens and lip balms every time I'm Down Under, and this development is a real thrill for skin care lovers. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Jessie Cheung of Chicago's Cheung Aesthetics & Wellness told HuffPost that this must-have SPF is 'packed with mineral blockers to protect from the harsh Aussie sun, but feels silky and lightweight.' $40 at Sephora Amazon According to board-certified dermatologist Dr. Alexander Witkowski, one of the most noteworthy new sunscreens of the season is this SPF 50 fluid from L'Oreal. He told HuffPost that it has an innovative formula that "combines advanced sun protection with skin-brightening benefits." It's enriched with vitamin C and vitamin E, which can help "to reduce the appearance of dark spots and promote a more even, radiant complexion." He is also a fan of the lightweight finish that doesn't leave a white cast and the fact that it is formulated for sensitive skin. $25 at Amazon $33 at Ulta $26 at Walgreens Amazon Both Badreshia-Bansal and Cheung recommended this Barcelona-based skin care brand's sunscreen. It is 100% mineral-based and infused with skin-loving ingredients that make it a great multitasker. It is one of the most comfortable mineral sunscreen formulas I've tried. It's formulated with zinc oxide, DNA repair enzymes and vitamin E — so not only is it preventing sun damage, but it's helping to nourish and repair the skin as well. The Isdin sunscreen is significantly lighter and easier to blend than traditional mineral SPFs, and doesn't have that lingering zinc smell that personally drives me up the wall. It dries down to a soft matte and is a nice base for dewy makeup looks. While this sunscreen blends well, there is a very slight white cast that's typical of a mineral sunscreen formulation. The combination of lightweight finish, formula and UV protection has made it worth the troubleshooting. Many shoppers noted that it's great for anyone who has sensitive skin, rosacea and skin cancer. $46 at Dermstore $46 at Sephora Amazon When you're going to hit the beach or pool, water-resistant formulas are key. Badreshia-Bansal said, "Look for something labeled 'water resistant (80 minutes)' and at least SPF 50. I recommend mineral sticks or lotions because they tend to be more photostable." In previous reporting, Dr. Brandan Camp, a board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology, said, "This lightweight, non-greasy product provides SPF 50 protection and contains zinc oxide as the active ingredient," Camp said. It's specially formulated with antioxidants to be water-resistant, is naturally sourced and dries down quickly without leaving a greasy finish. $19 at Amazon $13 at Walmart Elemis This silky sunscreen is one of Elemis' newest products, but given how great it is, you'd think the brand has been in the SPF game for decades. I've been using it for a couple of weeks and absolutely love it. I'm extremely fussy about sunscreen texture, finish and scent — and luckily this beauty knocks it out of the ballpark on all counts while providing powerful SPF 50 protection. It's a sheer, imperceptible fluid that dries down quickly with no white cast and leaves your complexion looking radiant and dewy, never greasy. I can't help but add it to this list of must-haves that your skin will love. $70 at Elemis Dermstore For beach days, Cheung recommends a water-resistant SPF, preferably a mineral formula that won't cause your eyes to sting or slide off when you're sweating in the sun. She pointed out that the EltaMD UV AOX Mist is great for full body coverage, since it "sprays on white but dries clear, so you won't miss any spots. It also has 360-degree sprayability, so you can apply it upside down." $46 at Dermstore $46 at Amazon Ulta Badreshia-Bansal said, "I'm really impressed by the new La Roche-Posay Anthelios mineral tinted SPF 50+ Fluid – it's sheer, has a universal tint, and offers high UVA/UVB protection with 100% mineral filters. It's ideal for sensitive skin and has a great, elegant feel." Perfect for those days when you don't want to wear makeup want an easy pick-me-up. $40 at Ulta $40 at Amazon Amazon According to Witkowski, this CeraVe lotion with SPF 30 is "an excellent, affordable and widely accessible option for a daily morning routine." It provides sun protection while doubling as a moisturizer and is formulated with ceramides, hyaluronic acid and niacinamide to support skin barrier health and hydration while also soothing irritation.. He also pointed out that it's non-comedogenic and fragrance-free, making it appropriate for sensitive and acne-prone skin. $15 at Amazon $16 at Ulta $15 at Target Ulta Another Badreshia-Bansal recommendation for days spent outdoors, this reef-safe mineral sunscreen from Australia contains no active chemicals and is suitable for use on sensitive skin. It's also sweat- and water-resistant for up to 80 minutes so you can enjoy all types of outdoor activities without worry. $13 at Ulta $12 at CVS Merit This sunscreen from the internet- and celeb-beloved beauty brand Merit is hot off the presses, and promises to be a lovely choice for those who want a sunscreen option that also offers a soft splash of color. It features a formulation that's designed to be lightweight and buildable with a silky, soft and velvety sheer finish to impart a natural glow, while also helping to smooth and blur the look of skin. It's available in 15 blendable hues. Be one of the first to check out this SPF. $38 at Merit Amazon Having earned The Skin Cancer Foundation's Seal of Recommendation, this La Roche-Posay is Witkowski's personal favorite and 'go-to' sunscreen, both for daily use and for days with extended sun exposure. It's also what he uses on his four-year-old child on beach days, bike rides or hikes. He noted that this oil-free SPF is very popular among dermatologists and is formulated with antioxidants that can help protect the skin from environmental damage. He also noted that it contains senna alata, "a tropical leaf extract known for its ability to combat oxidative stress and support the prevention of premature skin aging." You can't go wrong with this non-comedogenic, water-resistant formula that is also well-suited for sensitive skin. $20+ at Amazon $20 at Ulta Dermstore Badreshia-Bansal echoed the saying that "the best SPF for daily use is one that you'll actually wear — lightweight, invisible and comfortable under makeup." She recommends a mineral SPF with low irritation potential, like this cult-fave SPF that is beloved by both HuffPost readers and editors alike. It's formulated with hyaluronic acid to deeply moisturize skin while the inclusion of lactic acid lightly exfoliates skin and can help to reduce hyperpigmentation and shine. It's a great option for people like me with sensitive and acne-prone skin. I turn to it anytime I'm going to be spending a lot of time in the sun or when I'm post-procedure and want to protect my skin without irritating it. $44 at Dermstore $44 at Amazon Amazon "I recommend Tizo 2 Facial Mineral Sunscreen SPF 40 for individuals seeking both high-performance sun protection and anti-aging benefits," said Witkowski. It's enriched with powerful antioxidants that canhelp neutralize free radicals and support overall skin health, while the gentle formulation makes it well-suited for sensitive and post-procedure skin. He also pointed out that it has a matte finish that "wears comfortably under makeup." $45 at Amazon $25 at Target (regularly $45) Dermstore Cheung recommends a lightweight, tinted mineral SPF with antioxidants for everyday wear, like the Lancer Mineral Sun Shield SPF. "It multitasks as sun protection, skincare and a glow-up in one," she said. The iron oxides that provide the tint can also help to protect your skin from blue light, which penetrates deeper than UVB and contributes to hyperpigmentation. She added that this sunscreen "soothes while protecting and reducing sun damage, and will blend into all skin tones." $60 at Dermstore The Obsession With 'Toxic' Ingredients Has Started A Dangerous Lie About Sunscreen. Here's What To Know. 9 Lovely Korean Sunscreens For Achieving That Glass Skin Glow The Important Body Part You're Probably Missing When You Apply Sunscreen
Forbes
24-04-2025
- Health
- Forbes
Dr. Howard Sobel Talks Hair Restoration And Alma TED Technology
Hair loss has long been framed as a male concern—cue the receding hairline jokes, drugstore minoxidil, and late-night infomercials. But let's be real: women are quietly carrying the weight, too. In fact, female hair thinning is one of the most common yet least openly discussed cosmetic concerns today. Blame it on postpartum shifts, stress, hormone imbalances, or the brutal effects of a too-tight ponytail—whatever the cause, the result is often the same: hair that's noticeably less full, less dense, and less cooperative. Dr. Howard Sobel Dr. Howard Sobel Enter Alma TED, the ultrasound-powered hair restoration treatment generating buzz not just for what it does (stimulate regrowth without needles or downtime), but for who it's helping—women, increasingly and enthusiastically. We sat down with Dr. Howard Sobel, pioneer in cosmetic dermatologic surgery, to talk about what makes Alma TED different, why it's a game-changer for women's hair health, and how science is finally catching up with what many women have known for years: hair loss isn't just about vanity, it's about identity. 'The idea that hair loss is purely hereditary and hormone-based is outdated,' says Dr. Sobel. 'There are countless contributing factors—and we're finally treating them with the nuance they deserve.' Here, Dr. Sobel breaks down the myths, the method, and the magic behind Alma TED—and why it might just be the most game-changing advancement in hair health yet. I completed my residency in dermatology and dermatologic surgery at Emory University School of Medicine. At that time, I had an extreme interest in male and female pattern baldness. Most dermatologists believed that 90% of hair loss was hereditary and that the hormone testosterone was the cause once it was converted to its active form DHT. There are of course other causes of hair loss. Additionally, during my residency, I worked with a biochemist to develop a compound to block the hormone DHT. At that time we only had minoxidil, which increased blood flow to the hair follicle and caused the hair follicle to stay in a growing stage for longer. The quest continued, but it soon became apparent that hair loss was multifactorial and not just caused by DHT. Several years ago multiple medications in both oral and topical applications became popular to block DHT along with the use of minoxidil. What common hair loss concerns do your patients come to you with, and what are the most common causes? The most common causes include genetics, age, stress, anemia, thyroid disorders, autoimmune diseases, hormonal, cancer medications, nutritional deficiency, pregnancy and traction alopecia. Male pattern baldness the main cause affects men that are genetically predisposed usually after the age of 20 and females 30-35 years of age. A before and after look at Alma TED Dr. Howard Sobel Alma TED uses acoustic sound waves and air pressure to create small micro-channels in the scalp, which allows for better penetration of the applied topical. The results are short of remarkable with a 20-60% increase in hair regrowth with almost everyone noticing less shedding only 3-4 weeks after starting treatment. Additionally, three to four weeks out, patients will notice an increase in the density of each individual hair. The Alma Ted company supplies the doctor with a topical solution of growth factors and peptides. In my own practice, I have added exosomes to the treatment, which I get from the umbilical cord (derived from umbilical cord blood). The exosomes contain billions of growth factors. The growth factors stimulate the hair follicle, which decrease hair loss, increase hair growth and the density of each hair. PRP is another minimal invasive treatment for hair loss. You must first have your blood drawn then spin down where the plasma is then injected into the scalp with the growth factors, but not nearly as many growth factors as the exosomes from the umbilical cord. The acoustic sound waves and air pressure deliver any topical down into the hair follicle to improve hair growth. It also increases blood flow to the hair follicle. It's pain free unlike PRP. Alma TED also works for all types of hair loss and is probably best for androgenic alopecia in either males or females. To achieve success with Alma TED, it's most important that they still have an active hair follicle or else it will not work. Three sessions a month apart, then I analyze the degree of patients' hair loss, their age and genetic factors and adjust the sessions to about every two to four months. The Alma TED can be combined with vitamin supplements, amino acids, and conditioners that are healthy for the hair follicle as the Alma Ted will increase absorption. Absolutely. It can also be used on the face using exosomes to increase collagen and elastin and decrease fine lines and wrinkles.
