Ask the Derm Diva!

August 2021:

Dear Savvy Derm Diva,

I am reading all this information about sunscreen recalls. Should I be concerned?

Afraid of SPF - Justin K.

Dear Afraid of SPF,

This is a great question since a report came out in May that benzene was found in some popular sunscreen products. Fortunately, many have been recalled, and I stress that benzene is not a sunscreen ingredient. The recall was due to contamination in the manufacturing process. Though there are general safety questions about chemical sunscreens, one must always weigh the risk vs. benefit. If you want to stay away from chemicals altogether, stick with the ingredient zinc oxide and invest in UPF protective clothing such as Coolibar. Follow more sun safety tips here.

Diva Tip: Check out all the links in one place that I created to learn if your sunscreen made the safety list or not.

Dear Savvy Derm Diva,

I love to walk a lot and want to get comfy shoes that are stylish and breathable as my feet sweat profusely. Summer in August makes everything worse. Any suggestions or tips would be greatly appreciated.

Goody Two Shoes - Debra B.

Dear Goody Two Shoes,

Please make sure you see a Board Certified Dermatologist to rule out other causes of your excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis). Once diagnosed, the medical provider can offer some RX options to help reduce the burden of hyperhidrosis. I typically recommend an OTC powder called Zeasorb AF, which helps absorb some of the sweat and reduces the chance of odors. Recently, I discovered the cutest, stylish, lightweight shoes for ultimate comfort that are soft and perfect for travel from a company called UIN Footwear. They make them for the entire family, so nobody is left without comfort.

Diva Tip: You are definitely going to want more than one pair! Please create a new UIN account and save plus and get a bonus of $5.00 off with my code SAVVYUIN

Renata Block, MMS, PA-C, is the creator of Savvy Derm Diva, an online resource for proper skincare. Ask Savvy Derm Diva is a monthly column answering your skincare related concerns! Make sure you follow her on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter! You can make an appointment with her via TeleMedicine or in person at Advanced Dermatology & Aesthetic Medicine, LLC, or TEXT to 847-802-9667.

MUAH!💋