AHA/BHA, Retin-A, and Anti-Aging in Summer. How can I get these treatments when I am constantly exposed to sunlight?

Question

I am in my early 30's and live in Florida (prob Hawaii after this) and I have been told by professionals that I would benefit from a medical peel for my static eye wrinkles and sun damage from reckless sun exposure in my 20's. I was also told to use Retin-A. How can I use a daily glycolic peel, Retin-A treatment or medical peel when I live in places where I am in constant sun? I don't want to hide from my beautiful climate (I now wear spf30), but I want to get my skin under control. Thanks!

Robert T. Buchanan, MD (retired) · Answer

In Florida (or Hawaii) you do have some increased UVB exposure. However, your UVA exposure is very little different from anyone else anywhere else that is outside as much. Since you and everyone else cannot get "out of the sun," you just have to wear the right sunblock. Forget the SPF. All it tells you is that you are protected from UVB. Instead, turn to the ingredients and look for Zinc Oxide, at least 8% and, preferably, around 10%. This blocks both UVB (an 8% will have about a 30 SPF) and UVA and does not require reapplication every hour like avobenzone, the other UVA blocker. The zinc oxide only needs to be reapplied if washed or wiped off. I have been using both AHA and Retin-A with zinc oxide over 20 years and have never worried about whether I am in the sun or not (I am in it a lot) and have never had a problem.

AHA/BHA, Retin-A, and Anti-Aging in Summer. How can I get these treatments when I am constantly exposed to sunlight?

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