There are the photos you post on Snapchat, and then there are the skin pics you should share with one person only: your dermatologist.
“A baseline set of full-body medical photographs can help you and your doctor monitor your moles for signs of cancer,” says Adnan Nasir, M.D., Ph.D., a clinical professor of dermatology at UNC Chapel Hill. “I recommend it for people with a family history of skin cancer or who have lots of moles.”
Discuss a possible photo op with your doctor. If he or she thinks it’s worthwhile, you’ll be given a scrip for the shoot.
For the nearest location, go to canfieldsci.com or digitalderm.com.
Dr. Nasir has a few more tips to keep your skin healthy this summer.
Pull Down All the Shades
“I compete in triathlons to stay fit but am wary of sun damage. I run on shaded trails, always wear a hat, and protect my face with wraparound sunglasses, which can cut the risk of cataracts and skin cancer around your eyes. My Oakley shield sunglasses have nonslip nose pads and earpieces.”
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Eat for Your Epidermis
“A Mediterranean diet can reduce your risk of all kinds of ailments, from acne to melanoma. The antioxidants in produce and the omega-3s in olive oil and fatty fish reduce inflammation and repair DNA. I eat this meal twice a week: grilled salmon on mesclun greens, strawberries, goat cheese, and walnuts.”
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Run a Winning Screen Play
“I prefer SPF 30 sunscreens that are water-resistant, rub-resistant, and not too greasy, like Blue Lizard, Coppertone Sport, and CoTZ. I also take Heliocare supplements. They have an antioxidant that can prevent and even reverse sun-related UV damage, according to University of Miami research.”
