Nationally known dermatologist explains the three primary causes of skin damage to patients in the local area and beyond

It is important to keep the skin healthy and beautiful. Dr. Jeanine Downie, the founder of image Dermatology ® P.C. in Montclair, is a nationally known dermatologist who has been a guest on many television shows. These include The Today Show, Dr. Oz, and Good Morning America. She takes the time to educate the national public as well as her patients about the importance of skin care. When asked, “What causes skin damage?” Dr. Downie is happy to provide a response. Think of three “Ss” – sun, stress, and smoking.

Sun

The sun’s ultraviolet light can be detrimental to the skin and overall health and wellbeing. The outer layer of skin, the epidermis, contains cells with melanin. This pigment protects the skin from the sun’s ultraviolet rays, which can burn the skin. Over time, ultraviolet rays can reduce the skin’s elasticity, causing premature wrinkles and lines. Excessive sun exposure can also lead to skin cancer. Therefore, it is critical to protect yourself from the sun anytime you are outdoors. Sun protection includes wearing a broad-spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 30. You should wear sunscreen anytime you are going outside, rain or shine.

Stress

Whether it is filing taxes or studying for a test, stress can wreak havoc on your skin and overall health. Stress can trigger skin conditions such as eczema, acne, and psoriasis. Eczema is an itchy, red rash that people of all ages can develop, from newborns to seniors. Dr. Downie can personally relate to those who suffer from eczema and recommends plenty of exercises to reduce stress. Acne can plague the teenage or adult years, causing embarrassment for many men and women. Dr. Downie, who has personally battled acne, knows the importance of managing stress to help prevent flare-ups. Psoriasis causes skin cells to grow too quickly, resulting in thick, silvery, white, or red patches of skin. The condition can cause people to shy away from wearing bathing suits. Triggers of psoriasis include dry climates, certain medications, and stress. Dr. Downie is happy to talk with patients about lifestyle changes that can be made to reduce flare-ups of any of these skin conditions.

Smoking

Smoking cannot wreak havoc on your skin and your overall health. The longer people smoke, the higher the potential of premature wrinkles, which can develop on the face as well as other parts of the body such as the inner arms. Chemicals in tobacco smoke damage collagen and elastin, fibers that keep the skin firm and strong. This can cause the skin to sag and wrinkle prematurely. Smoking is also linked to skin conditions such as psoriasis and health issues such as heart disease and cancer.

Dr. Downie understands the importance of healthy and beautiful skin. She would be happy to meet with you during a consultation appointment to tailor a skin care regimen that can meet your needs. To schedule an appointment, call (973) 509-6900 today.

Dr. Jeanine Downie
image Dermatology ® P.C.

Dr. Jeanine Downie is an experienced and popular dermatologist in Montclair. She possesses extensive experience and training in all aspects of dermatology, including cosmetic dermatology and laser surgery. Dr. Downie provides modern and cutting-edge dermatology treatments to everyone in your family in a professional, competent and compassionate manner while ensuring that your individual and unique needs are met. Having received rigorous academic training, she completed her residency in Dermatology at the Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York City and also served as Chief Resident. She continues to upgrade her skills set and share her knowledge through professional affiliations and lecturing assignments on behalf of several renowned medical societies such as The Skin Cancer Foundation and The American Academy of Dermatology, among others. She also frequently interacts with the public through popular television shows such as Good Morning America, The Today Show, and The Dr. Oz Show, to name a few.