2 Truths & a Lie with Dr. Sky

2 Truths & a Lie with Dr. Sky

Dr. Skylar Souyoul became interested in dermatology as a teenager when, like many teenagers, she struggled with acne, and her dermatologist was the one person who could give her what she longed for—clear skin. Now a board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Sky “pays it forward” practicing the full range of medical, surgical, and aesthetic dermatology at her private practice in New Orleans.

When people think about cosmetic dermatology, they typically think of Botox and fillers, but it is so much more. Looking and feeling your best isn’t all in-office injections and lasers, but also taking care of your skin and slowing down the aging process. When patients tell Dr. Sky, “I don’t want to look weird,” her response is, “I want you to look like the best version of yourself—if your doctor is making you look weird, then you are going to the wrong place.” Dr. Sky is excited to share her knowledge with her patients, and now with you as a Good Grit reader!

2 Truths and a Lie about Sunscreen

1.  It is important to apply sunscreen every morning, even if you do not plan on being in the sun. TRUE

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun can pass through windows, so if you are sitting directly by a window, whether in your home, car, or office, you are getting UV radiation. Accumulative UV exposure not only accelerates skin aging, but increases your risk of skin cancer.

2.  Even if your makeup or moisturizer contains an SPF, you still need additional SPF coverage. TRUE

I see two problems with patients counting on their makeup to supply enough sun protection. First, many cosmetics contain only SPF 15 or 20. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends an SPF of 30 or higher. Make sure the sunscreen provides broad-spectrum (both UVA and UVB) protection. Second, sunscreen needs to be applied generously and every two hours, whereas makeup and moisturizers are usually applied sparingly and much less frequently.

If you are looking for a sunscreen to wear under makeup or that goes on completely clear, I recommend Elta MD UV Clear in Untinted:

If you are looking for a tinted sunscreen to replace your tinted moisturizer or foundation, I recommend Revision Intellishade:

If you have sensitive skin and want a sunscreen free of chemicals, dyes, fragrances, and parabens (preservatives), I recommend Vanicream products. These are available at Walgreens, CVS, and Target:

3. If you are outside on a cloudy, rainy, or snowy day, sunscreen is not important. FALSE

The sun emits UV rays year-round. Even on cloudy days, up to 80 percent of the sun’s harmful UV rays can penetrate your skin. In addition, sun protection is even more important when around snow, sand, or water, because these things reflect the sun’s rays.

My favorite drugstore sunscreens: anything that is SPF 30 or more, broad-spectrum, and water resistant.

If you’d like to make an appointment with Dr. Sky, her office is located at Lupo Center for Aesthetic & General Dermatology 145 Robert E. Lee Blvd., Suite 302, New Orleans, LA 70124. She can be reached at (504) 288-2381.