Blog: Everything Under the Sun
It’s Melanoma Awareness Month - what you need to know
Fact: The percentage of people who develop melanoma in the US has more than doubled in the past 30 years! We’ll say that again—Melanoma has more than doubled since the 1990s. Another fact? The daily use of SPF is central to our skin’s health and is proven to help prevent skin cancer, including Melanoma. When you consider that only 10% of Americans wear SPF on sunny days, not to mention cloudy ones, there’s no better time to commit to healthy habits like daily SPF. It might be Melanoma Awareness month, but we’re on a mission protect your skin 365 days a year. In fact, MDSolarSciences was founded on the premise that sun care is skin care. Our founder, renowned Dermatologic oncologist Dr. Robert J. Friedman, set out to reinvent, elevate, and inspire the daily use of SPF by developing clean, effective formulas equal to clinical grade skincare—that also felt luxurious enough you’d want to wear them every day. Why was Dr. Friedman so passionate about protecting our skin? Some staggering facts: Studies forecast that in 2023 there will be 186,680 cases of melanoma diagnosed Melanoma is more than 20 times more common in White people than in Black people The risk of melanoma increases as people age—the average age of diagnosis is 65 Melanoma can also be seen in people younger than 30 and is one of the most common cancers in young adults Sun exposure and burns in childhood will directly affect your risk for melanoma in later years Only 10% of Americans (you know who you are) wear sunscreen Does UV light and sun exposure lead to melanoma?The evidence is clear. Studies prove that melanomas are caused by UV exposure from the sun If you’ve had more than five sunburns, your risk of melanoma is double Shockingly, just ONE blistering sunburn in childhood or adolescence more than doubles your chances of developing melanoma later in life Artificial (Light) IntelligenceNever expose your skin to UV light from artificial sources like tanning beds and sun lamps. They’re so unhealthy that the International Agency of Research on Cancer has elevated them to the highest cancer risk category—alongside tobacco, radon and asbestos. There are plenty of healthy (and beautiful) alternatives, like tinted SPF skincare or a healthy spray tan. Sun Care. Skin Care. We Care.We’re committed to helping you keep your skin healthy. Here’s what you can do, too: Don’t Forget To Spot Check:Along with daily SPF, early detection saves lives. Follow the ABCDEs of skin health and carry out regular self-checks. Our founder was one of the pioneers of this innovative tool. A For Asymmetry: Is one half of your mole unlike the other? B For Border: Is your mole’s border irregular or poorly defined? C For Color: Does your mole vary in shades (i.e. tan, brown, black)? D For Diameter: Is your mole bigger than the size of a pencil eraser? E For Evolving: Does your mole change in size, shape or color? Your SPF checklist Apply to all exposed skin—even your lips Apply at least 20 minutes before stepping outside Apply to areas exposed to reflected UV rays—under your chin and bottom of your nose Reapply at least every 2 hours—more if sweating or swimming Apply no matter the weather (rain or shine) or time of year Apply even if “just driving” or sitting in a sunny “indoor” spot Stay safe and commit to daily SPF. SHOP Suncare
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Do Skincare Products Expire?
It goes without saying that you wouldn’t drink bad milk or eat wilted veggies. So don’t use expired products on your face and body. Fact is, just like the perishables you consume, your skincare also has an expiration date. But does that really mean you need to throw out products past their prime—even if they seem ok? Yes! Here’s why: Using skincare past its sell by date at best can mean loss of potency (so why bother?), but could also cause adverse skin reactions…and don’t even think about using expired SPF formulas. Don’t use SPF past its best. Applying and relying on old sunscreen means leaving your skin vulnerable to damaging UV rays and environmental stressors. Even worse—because it feels like you’ve done “the right thing” by applying, you’ll likely spend more time exposed and unprotected. It’s not worth the risk of using less than fresh SPF, leaving your skin defenseless against burning, increased aging, sun damage, melasma, or skin cancer. It’s time for a Spring clean to ensure your skin stays (and looks) beautifully healthy. Here’s what we know: Believe it or not, skincare is not regulated by the FDA—we’ll say that again. The FDA doesn’t monitor skincare. Translation: brands are not required to display expiration dates on MOST packaging. We’re happy to report, however, that it is mandatory for two categories that directly effect your health—SPF and acne products. Here’s what you can do: Be a detective: Look for the PAO (period after opening). Products that DO display expiration dates usually opt for this method. Most skincare has a shelf-life of several years (2-3) but it’s when you crack open the bottle, jar or tube when the clock really starts ticking. Here’s where to look for the expiration date on our products: When to Toss & Restock Use your senses: If you see, smell or feel any of the following changes, your skincare is probably not fit for use. From active ingredients losing effectiveness, to the introduction of unwelcome bacteria and microbes that can harm your skin, be sure to look for the signs. Don’t use it if… the formula has separated it has a bad (or different) smell it changes color it changes texture The PAO is expired Storage is key: Beyond the POA, there are other factors that can play a big role in your product’s life. Temperature, time, humidity, and physical stress can all change formulas in a negative way. Heat and light are big no nos, and contact, like sticking your fingers in a jar, (we all do it!) or applying product to your lips or armpits, can also introduce damaging bacteria. Try looking for pump bottles to avoid contamination with your fingers, and wipe clean lip balms, lipsticks and SPF sticks routinely. Now that spring is in full swing, take a moment to check and refresh any expired products— your skin will thank you later. SHOP FRESH SPF
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What is Cleanical skincare?
If you’re in search of the holy grail of skincare, but can’t get past the clean vs clinical debate——we get it! On one hand, what’s not to love about the idea of clean, safe, green and sustainable, on the other, clinical formulas deliver real “proven” results with medical-grade ingredients. It’s a never-ending conundrum—or is it? Here’s the great news. Now you can have it all— Cleanincal! A marvelous mashup of clean and clinical (like the entire MDSS collection) skincare, that’s transforming the beauty industry (and your skin). Making a clean(ical) start changes everything. Here’s what we know about clinical vs clean and why cleanincal is a skin win situation. The Clean Dream Organic essences and all things natural sound super safe and non-toxic—the skincare dream, right? Not so fast. Believe it or not, 100% clean derived skincare is not regulated by the FDA—we’ll say that again. Clean beauty brands are not regulated. Products must be certified safe (so don’t worry, nothing bad is about to happen to you or your skin), but the ingredients used and their effectiveness, are not controlled. Translation: your next-door neighbor who swears by her grandmother’s hickory banana fig leaf wrinkle-fighting concoction can sell it. Begging the question—does it actually work? The Clinical Counterpart Until recently, many of us have had a love-hate relationship with lab-made synthetic ingredients. Are they safe? What will they do to my skin? Why do I need such potent chemicals? —Sound familiar? Turns out, science-based products may not be so bad (hand sanitizer anyone?) after all. In fact, clinically developed skincare boasts real proven results, and though it gets a bad rap, some lab-grown and synthetic ingredients can be just as safe as clean ones (really)! The Cleanical Difference We say why choose, when you can have the best of both worlds! Enter the movement rocking the beauty world—a clean-meets-clinical sweet spot. Cleanical brands like MDSolarSciences are merging the best natural ingredients with cutting-edge science and the results are skin transforming. Don’t take our word for it… trying - and feeling - is believing. Discover the cleanical difference. Shop now
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Trending Now: Skinimalism
You’ve probably heard of no-makeup makeup—the fresh-faced pared-down and natural looking approach to makeup. But now skinfluencers and beauty editors are touting a new way to simplify your day—skinimalmism. And just in case you’re having trouble guessing the derivative of the word—it’s a fusion of minimalism and skin. Translation: the downsizing and simplifying of your skincare routine. Because sometimes, less really can do more. To Simplify: Gone are the days of a plethora of products, up to 10 complicated steps (you know who you are) and a huge investment in time and money to achieve beautiful skin. Skinimalism is about making life simple by editing your routine down to 2 - 4 essential products that still deliver glowing results. In fact, too many products and over exposure to highly-potent ingredients can overload your skin, block pores, trigger irritation—and even cause damage. 4 reasons to become a skinimalist: Less time on your routine = more time for you Less $$$ spent on multiple products = more $$$ for other luxuries Less effort made = more energy for the rest of your day Less stress on your skin = more visibly healthy skin Quality Over Quantity: While we’re certainly fans of simplifying, the type of products you use make all the difference. Invest in fewer, yet high-quality formulas and ingredients that nurture your skin and achieve real results. Here are the important steps that simply can’t be missed: Cleanse Be sure to thoroughly clean your skin day and night with a cleanser that also works to nourish and moisturize without stripping your skin’s protective barrier. Protect Don’t forget SPF—365 days a year (yes, rain or shine)! A moisturizer--sunscreen combo is always a good option and gives you two steps in one. Genius! Treat + Nourish Choose a great multitasking all-rounder product (or 2) packed with hero ingredients like retinol, hyaluronic acid, Niacinamide, antioxidants and Vitamin C that can work to address most of your skin concerns. The (Skinima)list Wash Away One-step Cleanser Gently exfoliates as it washes away makeup, impurities and sunscreens. Cleanses pores without stripping skin’s moisture barrier and leaves your skin feeling clean, refreshed and supple—infused with Hyaluronic Acid and Vitamin B5. Daily Perfecting Moisturizer SPF 30 A must-have daily dose of lightweight hydration, broad-spectrum protection, antioxidants and nourishing ingredients, all in one. Dermatologist developed and recommended SPF hydration to keep you protected AM-PM while also giving your skin an ultra-dewy youthful glow. MD Restore Eye Gel Keep dark circles, puffiness, fine lines, and wrinkles bright, tight, and out of sight with this restorative eye gel. Its soothing formula glides on silky-smooth to deliver a powerful blend of collagen signaling peptides and antioxidants that may help reduce signs of sun damage, while giving skin a firmer, more elastic appearance. MD Revitalize Retinol Serum A restorative lightweight night serum that restores dull, tired and lackluster skin. Its calming and nourishing ingredients leave your skin feeling velvety soft while helping to reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation, fine lines, wrinkles and pores. Why not give skinimalism a try—you’ll love how simple it is.
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Matches Made In Skincare Heaven
Give your skin a little extra love—two transformational products are better than one. Love Matches: The Glow Getters Gleam and Glow SPF 50 Start the day with SPF protection and gorgeous glow-to-go. + MD Revitalize Retinol Serum Smooth, even skin tone and brighten while you get your beauty rest. = Bright, Radiant Skin The Power Couple Wash Away One-Step Cleanser Thoroughly cleanse skin day and night with this hydrating must-have + MD Restore Eye Gel Match it with a soothing eye gel that targets dark circles, puffiness, and fine lines = Smooth, Nourished Skin More to Love - Explore our bundled perfect matches here.
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Can Bluelight from Devices Damage your Skin?
It goes without saying (and we’ll remind you until the end of time) that sunscreen is a priority when it comes to protecting your skin from damaging UV rays. But here’s a bolt from the blue—literally. Now you have to think twice before using a device—like that smartphone, computer or tablet that you’re probably reading this post on. Here’s what we know. Scientists and dermatologists have recently discovered that many of the electronics you likely use every. single. day. emit a damaging blue light that can lead to changes in your skin cells, resulting in premature aging, hyperpigmentation, age spots, and melasma. The facts of (blue) light: Exposure, even as short as 60 minutes, can trigger cell changes Most Americans spend more than 11 hours per day (really!) using digital media for both work and pleasure Millennials check their phones (on average) 150 times a day One study suggested that swelling, redness, and pigment changes are more prevalent in people with darker skin Using mineral-based SPF to block blue light is imperative. While chemical-based sunscreens can be effective when protecting you from the sun’s UV rays, they don’t do a great job at blocking blue light baddies. Time To Block The Blues Our 100% mineral SPF protection to the rescue: Mineral Crème SPF 50 A silky-smooth formula that feels like cashmere on your skin. Not only does it provide broad-spectrum protection, it also leaves a true matte finish that gives your complexion an even natural look. Naturally derived zinc oxide helps reduce the risk of photo aging and skin cancer, while Vitamin C and natural antioxidants fight sun and free radical damage. Mineral Tinted Crème SPF 30 A silky, luxurious mineral formula that provides broad-spectrum protection, blends effortlessly into all skin tones and leaves you with a smooth, filter-like finish. Infused with powerful antioxidants + skin smoothing ingredients like Vitamins C and E, green tea, cranberry fruit and pomegranates for a youthful healthy-looking glow. Solar Stick SPF 40 On-the-go must-have that glides on flawlessly (without any white residue) to deliver powerful mineral (SPF 40) protection. Perfect for backpacks, gym bags or handbags, this lightweight essential is water resistant up to 80 minutes and gentle enough for the whole family—even kids 6 months and older. Tinted Solar Stick SPF 40 A lightweight, easy-to-apply lightly tinted Mineral SPF 40 stick for anyone on-the-go. Convenient and portable it can be used on lips, cheeks, nose, forehead, ears, shoulders…in fact, anywhere harmful light could hit. This powerful sheer tinted shield blends seamlessly with all skin tones to leave a flawless matte finish. Power up your skin’s barrier of protection, before powering up you’re your device.
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Why You Really Need SPF in the Winter.
Hands up if you wear SPF every single day—even in winter. Not that we’re doubting you, but studies show that only a mere 10% of Americans (you know who you are) wear sunscreen on hot and sunny days—not to mention wintery, gloomy, or chilly ones. Time to face facts: even if it’s cloudy out, don’t forget that crucial SPF step. Otherwise, you’re leaving your skin at risk for hyperpigmentation (dark spots), photoaging (wrinkles and fine lines), even melanoma. Sunscreen is not a suggestion, it’s a must 365 days a year. Here's why you need to factor SPF into your daily routine. Ultra-violet (UV) rays can be just as damaging in winter months and dull days as scorching hot ones… you know, when it actually feels like your skin is burning. Truth is, that’s every day. Surprisingly (and shockingly) the ozone layer is thinner during winter, thus, allowing more harmful rays to damage your skin. Whether you’re a ski bunny, or just can’t avoid snow because of where you live, snow and ice reflect up to 90% of the sun’s rays—oh snow! Live in the Northern Hemisphere where winter feels cooler than summer? Don’t be fooled, you’re actually closer to the sun’s harmful rays in winter because of the earth’s tilt. Who knew! Your Daily SPF checklist Apply to all exposed skin—even your lips Apply at least 20 minutes before stepping outside Apply to areas exposed to reflected UV rays—think under your chin, and bottom of your nose Reapply at least every 2 hours—more if sweating or swimming Apply no matter the weather (rain or shine) or time of year Apply even if “just driving” or sitting in a sunny “indoor” spot We’ve got you covered—literally. Mineral Crème SPF 50 A silky-smooth formula that feels like cashmere on your skin. Not only does it provide broad-spectrum protection, it also leaves a true matte finish that gives your complexion an even natural look. Naturally derived zinc oxide helps reduce the risk of photo aging and skin cancer, while Vitamin C and natural antioxidants fight sun and free radical damage. Mineral Tinted Crème SPF 30 A silky, luxurious mineral formula that provides broad-spectrum protection, blends effortlessly into all skin tones and leaves you with a smooth, filter-like finish. Infused with powerful antioxidants + skin smoothing ingredients like Vitamin C and E, green tea, cranberry fruit and pomegranates for a youthful healthy-looking glow. Daily Perfecting Moisturizer SPF 30 A must-have daily dose of lightweight hydration, broad-spectrum protection, antioxidants and nourishing ingredients, all in one. Dermatologist developed and recommended SPF hydration to keep you protected AM-PM while also giving your skin an ultra-dewy youthful glow. Solar Stick SPF 40 On-the-go must-have that glides on flawlessly (without any white residue) to deliver powerful mineral (SPF 40) protection. Perfect for backpacks, gym bags or handbags, this lightweight essential is water resistant up to 80 minutes and gentle enough for the whole family—even kids 6 months and older. Kid Stick SPF 40 This gentle, unscented and water-resistant mineral sunscreen stick is perfect for children’s delicate skin and provides powerful broad spectrum protection in a grab-and-go stick. It glides on smoothly, quickly and easily and feels great on little faces. So, now you know why SPF truly is essential year-round. Make it a part of your daily routine and commit to daily SPF!
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C The Difference - Your guide to the antioxidant-rich vitamin that delivers A+ skin.
We all know about the bountiful benefits of Vitamin C when it comes to our overall health and wellbeing—but here’s the bad news. No matter how much broccoli or berries you add to your diet, they’re probably having zero (really!) effect on the top layers of your skin. Time for a C change! The good news? There’s another way to give your skin the daily dose it deserves—topical vitamin C, and it’s a game-changer. C-ing Is Believing Beloved by dermatologists and skincare specialists alike, Vitamin C has become a superstar ingredient because of its brilliant (literally) lightening and brightening benefits. But it’s so much more…this triple threat treat also boasts incredible anti-aging, collagen enhancing, healing, soothing and smoothing properties that help deliver A+ results. Here's the scoop on Vitamin C for your skin It neutralizes oxidative stress. In other words, it protects your skin from damaging free-radicals from the environment. Helps trigger and stimulate collagen synthesis. Basically, it gives you a firmer, smoother, plumper complexion and a more youthful appearance. Inhibits something called “enzyme tyrosinase.” Translation: it effects and decreases the production of melanin (dark spots) to brighten your complexion. C For Yourself Mineral Crème SPF 50 A silky-smooth formula that feels like cashmere on your skin. Not only does it provide broad-spectrum protection, it also leaves a true matte finish that give your complexion an even natural look. Naturally derived zinc oxide helps reduce the risk of photo aging and skin cancer, while Vitamin C and natural antioxidants fight sun damage and free radical. Mineral Tinted Crème SPF 30 A silky, luxurious, universal tinted mineral formula that blends effortlessly into all skin tones, leaving you with a smooth, filte-like finish. Infused with powerful antioxidants + skin smoothing ingredients including Vitamin C and E, green tea, cranberry fruit and pomegranate for a youthful healthy-looking glow. MD Mineral BB Crème SPF 50 A multi-tasking sheer tinted mineral based formula delivers the ultimate skin-loving trifecta. A natural matte finish, anti-aging benefits and broad-spectrum protection. Made with naturally-derived zinc oxide, and infused with caffeine, niacinamide, Vitamin C and other antioxidants to minimize discoloration and redness for a brighter even finish. Daily Perfecting Moisturizer SPF 30 A daily dose of lightweight hydration, broad-spectrum protection, antioxidants (including Vitamin C) and nourishing ingredients, all in one. Dermatologist developed SPF hydration to keep you protected while also giving your skin an ultra-dewy youthful finish Evening Retinol Serum A restorative lightweight night serum that restores dull, tired and lackluster skin. It’s calming and nourishing ingredients (including Vitamin C) leave your skin feeling velvety soft while helping to reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation, fine lines, wrinkles and pores. Gleam + Glow SPF 50 A one-step daily radiance moisturizer that provides all-day hydration, SPF protection, potent skin-nourishing ingredients (yes, more Vitamin C) to leave skin with a sheer natural glow. Try adding Vitamin C in your skincare routine—because C-ing is believing.
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Should You Be Wearing Sunscreen When Getting Gel Manicures? Here’s Everything You Need to Know!
If you get gel manicures and pedicures, you’re already familiar with the UV lamps they use to cure your nails. The UV lamps essentially set the polish, as the gel contains chemicals called photoinitiators, which requires a direct dose of UV lengths to be hardened in a process called photoreaction. What you may not know is that although the amount of time that your hands/feet are exposed to these UV lamps is rather short, the exposure is the equivalent to the recommended limit of UV rays for an entire day, according to a study conducted by the Australasian College of Dermatologists. The UV light can potentially increase the risk of skin cancer and cause premature aging. Before you get your gel manicure/pedicure, you should always ensure to apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. In doing so, this one little step can assist in preventing skin cancer and premature aging skin. You should apply your sunscreen a couple minutes before the polish is applied so that you don’t have to wash it off and so that it has time to start working. We suggest an easy, on-the-go applicator such as our Tinted Solar Stick SPF 40 or our Solar Stick SPF 40. These quickly lay down a powerful, sheer SPF shield that blends seamlessly with all skin tones for a matte uniform finish. Clean mineral formula, incredible texture, and no white cast. They help to prevent sunburn as well as damage to overexposed skin. So next time you get your gel manicure, don’t forget to bring your sunscreen along!
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