COMPLEXION QUESTIONS

New York, NY - September 2002 - Whether you're traveling to the Caribbean or Down Under, looking for a quick fix for chapped skin or simply looking to eat your way to better skin, you need to "save face". Here, Dr. Jim Baral, founder of American Dermatology Center and Assistant Clinical Professor of Dermatology and Pediatrics Mount Sinai School of Medicine, answers actual questions posed by his patients that carry the most common skin-saving themes:

• I'm heading to the Caribbean for a winter get-away. I'm afraid my skin will totally freak out from going from a cold climate to a tropical one. What can I do to prevent a skin disaster?
  According to Dr. Baral, wearing an SPF of at least 15 is the first step in protecting skin and foregoing a skin catastrophe. "Exposing yourself to the sun gradually over the course of your stay will also help decrease your chances of a bad burn," he explains. However, change in climate and water pressure can also affect the skin. Dr. Baral recommends applying plenty of moisturizer, at least twice a day throughout your trip and the first few days after you return home.
• I went for a run this morning before work. By the time I got to the office, my face was completely chapped from windburn. What can I do to lessen the redness and pain?
  Dr. Baral suggests using a hydrocortisone cream. "Apply twice a day for three to four days to reduce the redness and irritation," advises Dr. Baral. Next time, he suggests you wear scarf or face mask to protect your skin from the brisk wind.
• I've heard some foods are bad for your complexion, but are there certain edibles that can help prevent fine lines and wrinkles?
  "Yes, certain foods, especially those packed with omega-3 essential fatty acids, can prevent dullness, oiliness, dryness and even wrinkles," says Dr. Jim Baral. Foods high in omega-3 essential fatty acids include salmon, tuna and sardines. Not a fish person? Spinach and supplements found at health-food stores have the same skin-smoothing effects.
• I'm taking a trip to Australia--- 21-hours on a plane! What can I do to prevent my skin from becoming parched in the airplane air?
  "Dry, recirculated airplane air can really take a toll on the skin. Drinking plenty of water before, during and after your flight will help keep skin hydrated," says Dr. Baral. "I also suggest moisturizing your skin and lips every hour or two for the length of the flight." Also, if you've booked a window seat, don't forget the SPF. UV light can penetrate glass and is even more intense at high altitudes.
• Once the cold weather season starts, my skin becomes flaky and dry as a bone. How can I help my winter-ravaged skin?
  "Cold temperatures and dry indoor heating can rob even the most perfect skin of moisture," explains Dr. Baral. "I advise taking quick showers -- under five minutes -- every other day in lukewarm water and avoiding harsh soaps, which may further contribute to dry skin." Sleeping with a humidifier in the bedroom and applying AmLactin Moisturizing Cream, an over-the-counter cream, twice a day can also help.
  

  Dr. Baral is affiliated with Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York City.  He is a diplomate of the American Board of Dermatology and Pediatrics and is a member of several medical societies including the American Society of Laser Medicine and Surgery. 

  For more information on Dr. Baral and American Dermatology Center, visit www.americandermatologyctr.com.