Ultraviolet Protection
Ultraviolet light is divided by UVA, UVB, and UVC. UVC doesn’t make it to the earth’s surface, so UVA and UVB are what we need to protect against.

UVB is blocked by all sunscreens and the amount of blockage is measured by SPF. 15 to 30 is generally enough. There is no standard for measuring UVA. Effective sunscreens for physical blockers are (Zinc Oxide, Titanium Dioxide), mexoryl, and avobenzone. UVA not only affects the DNA of the epidermal cells, but decreases immunity in the skin. Tanning parlors generally have UVA.

Dry Skin
Skin becomes dry due to loss of water. To replenish moisture, sit in a bathtub and add 2 coffee cups of salt. Pat the skin dry and apply your moisturizer within 10 to 15 minutes after bathing. Use a mild soap like Dove or Cetaphil. Also, keep the thermostat as low as possible.

Acne
Acne may be due to a number of factors. In teenagers, it is usually genetics and hormones. Diet and hygiene seem to play a minimal role. Soap with salicylic acid followed by 5-10% benzoyl peroxide would be an entry level treatment but effective for many. These products are sold over the counter at a reasonable price.

Eczema
Most scaly red rashes are a form of eczema. These can be genetic or related to irritants. For many patients, use of a mild soap, moisturizer and 1% hydrocortisone are able to control the irritation.