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What I’ve learnt from Dr Ava Shamban’s Channel – Protecting Skin

Dr AVA MD’s Channel

Been watching Dr Ava Shamban’s Channel – a series of youtube videos relating to skincare. Dr. Ava Shamban–a renowned board-certified dermatologist licensed to practice medicine in California, New York and Hawaii–graduated magna cum laude from Harvard University before receiving her medical degree from Case Western Reserve Medical School. In addition to serving as Assistant Clinical Professor of Dermatology at the UCLA-Geffen School of Medicine, she is recognized as the “Extreme Makeover” dermatologist and the resident expert on the Emmy winning daytime talk show, “The Doctors.” Dr. Shamban is also author of the new book, Heal Your Skin: The Breakthrough Plan for Renewal (Wiley)

Dr. Ava on How Exercise Benefits Skin
Exercise can increase circulation, thereby increasing nutrients to the skin and reducing toxins. Cortisol, produced by adrenal gland, will also be reduced (cortisol lowers immune system). Any exercise that can be carried out on daily/ every other day basis is good!
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Dr Ava on How to Avoid Stress that Causes Acne
Stress can manifest both internally and externally, on the skin. Stress, increases cortisol, which is viewed as a male-like hormone (androgen) and increases acne. To de-stress, relax and nap. A combination of rest and exercise is always beneficial.
See also my post here on stress on children with eczema.
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Dr Ava on How to Buy Quality Skincare at the Drugstore
The skincare products suited for you may not necessarily be the most expensive; label-reading is important (which is why I’ve started the Sensitive Skin Products series with VMVHypoallergenics). Make sure that the active ingredient is in the first five ingredients and the product is fragrance-free. In Dr Ava’s words ‘If you want to use perfume, use perfume; but not on your face’.
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Dr Ava on How to Choose the Right Sunscreen and SPF?
Choose a high SPF especially at least SPF50 on higher altitude. Choose one that is not too oily or greasy and comfortable to use (with make-up). If doing sports, need a water-proof or resistant one. Sunscreen on the face is formulated differently with that on the body.
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Sun-protection is discussed and Dr Ava’s recommendation is to have a high SPF sunscreen, wide-brimmed hat and wear sun-protective clothing (there’s even for babies with SPF 50 rating). Choose physical sunscreen that’s safer for children (you can see this post for more info). For face, a non-comedogenic lotion with SPF can also be used. There’re also certain foods that can help increase SPF, mainly red/purple fruits such as pomegranate, carrots, watermelons, blueberry and raspberry!

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