With summer’s scorching sun and relentless humidity, Bermuda’s tropical climate poses unique challenges for skincare. As the island’s rays beat down, and the air grows thick with moisture, maintaining healthy skin becomes more than just a luxury—it’s a necessity.
It’s important to recognize the potential damage the sun can inflict on our skin, especially during the summer months. The sun emits harmful UV rays that can penetrate the skin, leading to various skin issues such as sunburn, premature aging, and an increased risk of skin cancer.
Prolonged exposure to the sun without adequate protection can cause irreparable damage to the skin’s cells and DNA. Additionally, the intense heat and humidity of the summer months can exacerbate these effects, making it crucial to take proactive measures to protect our skin.
By understanding the risks associated with sun exposure and implementing effective sun protection strategies, such as wearing sunscreen, seeking shade, and wearing protective clothing, we can mitigate the harmful effects of the sun and maintain healthier, more resilient skin throughout the summer and beyond.
Taking proactive steps to care for our skin can help us enjoy the summer months without compromising our skin’s health and vitality. In this oasis of azure waters and pink sand beaches, where the sun reigns supreme, proper skincare isn’t just a routine; it’s a vital aspect of daily life. To navigate Bermuda’s beauty with grace and confidence, understanding the secrets to summer skincare for people of colour is essential.
Last month, I had the pleasure of visiting Dr. Brown’s Northshore Medical & Aesthetics Center for a skincare treatment. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted by a warm receptionist and welcomed by the aesthetician, Cherrece Salmon-Shirley. Cherrece guided me through two rejuvenating treatments: microdermabrasion and radiofrequency therapy.
Microdermabrasion, as Ms Salmon-Shirley explained, is a minimally invasive procedure designed to remove the uppermost layer of skin, addressing concerns such as wrinkles, age spots, and acne. The treatment aims to improve the overall appearance of the skin, leaving it looking refreshed and rejuvenated. Following microdermabrasion, Ms Salmon-Shirley treated my skin with radiofrequency therapy, also known as radiofrequency skin tightening. This nonsurgical procedure involves using energy waves to heat the deep layer of the skin, stimulating collagen production and promoting skin tightening.
Throughout the treatments, Ms Salmon-Shirley provided thorough explanations of each step, ensuring that I felt comfortable and informed throughout the process. From cleansing and steaming to addressing specific areas affected by sun exposure, she tailored the treatments to meet my individual skincare needs.
Ms Salmon-Shirley’s observations of my skin were not only encouraging but also insightful.
“Joanne has very good skin for a woman of her age,” she remarked with a smile. “Therefore, both treatments were performed to enhance and maintain what is already there, and should be a monthly regime for most women wanting to restore, enhance, or maintain their skincare.”
Additionally, Ms Salmon-Shirley noted that individuals dealing with acne, scars, or other skin ailments are encouraged to undergo these treatments every two weeks until the conditions improve. Hearing Cherrece’s assessment left me feeling elated, knowing that my skin is in good condition and that these treatments can contribute to its ongoing health and vitality.
Two weeks later, I continue to reap the benefits of these rejuvenating treatments. My skin has a radiant glow, and friends and colleagues have noticed the difference, often inquiring about my skincare regimen.
Enter Dr. Brown, a dermatologist at North Shore Medical and Aesthetic Centre, ready to unveil the skincare secrets that will keep you glowing beneath the Bermudian sun
According to Dr. Brown, individuals with melanin-rich skin have a natural advantage against UV radiation, thanks to higher melanin levels. However, this same melanin can also lead to hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone when exposed to the sun for prolonged periods. In addition, increased sebum production in hot and humid climates can exacerbate skin issues, particularly acne and breakouts. Managing heat and sweat is crucial, as these factors can aggravate conditions like eczema and fungal infections, especially in darker skin tones.
Sun protection is paramount for people of colour, and Dr. Brown recommended choosing broad-spectrum sunscreens with SPF 30 or higher. He advised against products with a white cast, as they can be unflattering on darker skin tones.
Dr. Brown also highlighted the importance of consistent sun protection in managing hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone. Topical treatments containing ingredients like vitamin C, niacinamide, and hydroquinone can help lighten hyperpigmented spots gradually. For more severe cases, professional treatments such as chemical peels and laser therapy may be considered under dermatological guidance.
In addition to sun protection and topical treatments, Dr. Brown shared tips for natural remedies and skincare routines tailored to melanin-rich skin. Tea tree oil, known for its antibacterial properties, can be effective in treating acne, while aloe vera provides soothing relief for sunburns. Green tea, an antioxidant-rich toner, can help reduce oiliness and protect against environmental pollutants. Dr. Brown also emphasized the importance of maintaining hydration and moisture balance with lightweight, water-based moisturizers and increased water intake.
He stressed the importance of proactive skin care routines for people of colour during the summer. By prioritizing sun protection, addressing sebum production, and embracing natural remedies, individuals can maintain healthy, glowing skin all season long. With the guidance of experts like Dr. Brown, people of colour can navigate the challenges of summer skincare with confidence and ease.
My experience at Northshore Medical & Aesthetics Center was nothing short of exceptional. Ms Salmon-Shirley’s expertise and personalized approach to skincare left me feeling confident and rejuvenated, and I look forward to making these treatments a regular part of my skincare routine.
Additionally, I found Dr. Brown’s recommendations for summer skincare to be incredibly insightful and helpful. As we navigate through the summer months, we no longer need to hide from the sun, sand, and sea. Instead, we can embrace everything glorious about the Bermuda summer while maintaining a healthy summer glow with these recommendations and available treatments. Thanks to the expertise at Northshore Medical & Aesthetics Center, I feel empowered to enjoy the summer while prioritizing the health and vitality of my skin.
