“The Skin is a Reflection of Your Life”
Dr. Roxana Chapman is a dermatologist practicing in West Bloomfield, MI. Dr. Chapman specializes in skincare. Dermatologists evaluate and manage both common and uncommon skin conditions. These conditions include acne, psoriasis, warts, skin infections, atopic dermatitis, herpes simplex, and more. Dermatologists are also... more
Some say that one’s eyes are the window into the soul, as a dermatologist, I believe that the skin is a reflection of one’s health and past. As an internist, a full history is essential in making a correct diagnosis and it’s also crucial in dermatology. Examination of the teeth, nails, and hair adds additional clues as to whether or not a systemic disease is present. Skin color is a key factor in protection from damaging ultraviolet light that penetrates into the skin and results in defects that eventually cause an increased likelihood of skin cancer. Genetic factors that are often outside of our control also play a role in an increased likelihood of developing skin cancer.
Just having fair skin or pigment loss from vitiligo can markedly increase our risk for skin cancer. But regardless of our skin color, the factors we can control include whether or not we apply sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and are mindful of the duration we are out in the sun. Altitude, the reflection of UV rays from water and snow also affects the number of damaging rays our skin absorbs. Good habits that we develop in our youth will have benefits as we age. Much of the cosmetic concerns that arise with age can be minimized by our actions in our youth. I was a skier and swimmer and had 2 basal cell skin cancers in my 20-30’s. I detected both of them early and have had no recurrences. Self-examination techniques are easily taught and will help patients get treatment early. There are numerous resources for patient education and instructions on self-examination provided by the Academy of Dermatology. Whether or not we apply sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and limit the duration of sun exposure are under our control. We can minimize damage from the sun by taking precautions.
My practice has been to educate my patients and do full skin exams on every patient on a regular basis. Cosmetic and therapeutic procedures are available to help reduce damage, but prevention and early awareness will have a lasting impact. Simple programs such as daily retinoids, alphahydroxy acids, and several other at-home regimens can have beneficial effects on slowing the aging process.
