By Araxe Hajian
For the last 15 years, the board-certified dermatologist Dr. Dennis Gross and Miraval Resort & Spas have collaborated to offer stellar spa experiences with exclusive treatments formulated by Dr. Gross. Dr. Dennis Gross takes an education-first approach to skin health which aligns with Miraval’s mission rooted in wellness and mindfulness.
Furthering Miraval’s commitment to holistic wellness, Dr. Gross visited Miraval Berkshires to educate guests on melanoma prevention, offer complimentary one-on-one skin consultations, and customize regimens designed to fit specific skin concerns and lifestyles.
APPLICATION: When, where & how much?
Apply sunscreen at least 15 minutes BEFORE going out in the sun. If you wait to apply SPF when you’re already outside, you are leaving skin exposed to damaging UVA/UVB – and you’re exposed for longer than you realize.
A classic error is not using enough. To be truly protected, apply about 2-4 ounces to cover your face and body.
Cover all exposed areas, including the hairline, ears, hands, toes, and even lips. Poor application can lead to skin cancer and pre-cancers occurring in those areas.
EXPOSURE
Avoid being in the sun from the hours of 10 AM – 2 PM when the sun’s rays are strongest.
READ THE SIGNS
Pink is the new red! Sunburnt skin is never beautiful and pink skin is actually the sign of a little burn.
RE-APPLY
Don’t forget to re-apply sunscreen anytime you get out of the water, after sweating or physical activity, and after two hours of sun exposure.
COVER UP
Utilize sun protection clothing and accessories to prevent direct sun exposure, such as large sunglasses that completely cover the eye areas, wide-brimmed hats, UPF clothing, and umbrellas.
USE PHYSICAL/MINERAL SUNSCREENS
I only recommend all-physical sunscreens, also called mineral sunscreens. In 2020, the FDA released a study showing that chemical sunscreens are being absorbed into the bloodstream at rates much higher than deemed safe. I say play it safe and stick with physical sunscreens.
PREVENTION
Research shows that a substantial amount of premature aging comes from incidental sun exposure when we’re unaware of it—such as when we’re out shopping or even grabbing lunch. Get in the habit of wearing SPF 30 or higher every single day, even when you are not planning to spend time outdoors.
A sunscreen with an SPF 30 will block out 97% of UVB rays, making it a great choice for daily application.
ANTIOXIDANTS
Utilize antioxidants in conjunction with sunscreen to best protect against signs of sun aging. Antioxidants combat free radical activity from sun exposure. Think of free radicals like darts poking holes in our skin, physiologically breaking down our collagen structure resulting in wrinkles, sunspots, and sagging skin. A serum or SPF with boosted with antioxidants will stop the darts in their tracks before damage is caused.
EVERY SINGLE DAY
We are all vulnerable to skin cancers like melanoma. I cannot stress enough the importance of protecting your skin 365 days a year with sunscreen and sun safety habits. The most important aspect of picking out a sunscreen is looking for one that you enjoy using and will use daily.
During your next stay, experience the exclusive Renew & Restore Facial – created by Dr. Gross – that exfoliates and delivers potent anti-aging ingredients and intense hydration without any recovery time. A detoxifying and hydrating facial, incorporating gentle massage to improve circulation, restores healthy skin tone with an intensely hydrating marine hyaluronic mask.
Dr. Dennis Gross products are available for purchase at Miraval’s online shop and Life in Balance Spa retail.
Araxe Hajian is a senior writer who covers wellness stories and specialist offerings at Miraval Resorts & Spas. She was associate editor and writer at Life in Balance Magazine, storyteller at the social platform MindMeet, and author of numerous articles and Miraval Resorts’ coffee-table book Miraval Mindful by Design.
*Source material provided by Dr. Dennis Gross.
