Dermatology Q&A with Dr. O’Donoghue.

Q: I had a blood test that says I am vitamin D deficient. I know you can get some vitamin D from going in the sun, but isn’t that a risky way to get it?

A: You are absolutely correct. As a board-certified dermatologist, I find serious skin cancers every day that area the result of excessive skin exposure.  For my patients that are vitamin D Deficient I recommend a diet high in vitamin D milk, cheese and fish.

If this is insufficient to correct the deficiency I recommend a supplemental oral vitamin spray that is easy to take and readily absorbed.  Only as a last resort do I recommend someone expose their skin to the harmful rays of the sun.

Q: I see a lot in the news about Botox – is it safe?

A: Over 1.6 million people chose to have Botox®Cosmetic injections in 2008, and according to the American Academy of Dermatology, Botox is growing faster than any other cosmetic procedure. It is the most safe and effective way to treat lines and wrinkles of the forehead and crows feet. It must be administered appropriately by a licensed and professional; individual, so make sure you ask the person performing the procedure how many patients they have treated, what medical training they have, and what are the possible side effects.

Q: I am overwhelmed by the variety of sunscreens available, which is best

A: Look for sun blocks that contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide which are ingredients not easily broken down by the sun.  These also protect your skin from harmful UVA sunrays which are the main cause of melanoma.

NeoDerm Stands Out

Sandra M. Day, clinical aesthetician for NeoDerm Aesthetics, was recently honored at the 16th Annual Meeting of the Society of Plastic Surgical Skin Care Specialists, held in Washington, DC, as its National President.

NeoDerm Aesthetics, established in 1992, has consistently provided the highest quality, customized skin care procedures and products available in Sarasota.  Awarded “Best of the Best” in the Skin Care category since its inception in Sarasota Magazine’s annual readers survey, NeoDerm continually strives to provide legendary service to maintain that status.

At NeoDerm Aesthetics, the staff offers a variety of the highest quality, medical grade skin care products.  The latest line, available exclusively at NeoDerm, is Sociètè.  These reasonably priced home care products are free of parabens, sodium laurel sulfate and propylene glycol –yet contain fabulous, scientifically proven effective ingredients of antioxidants, vitamins and more.  Call 951-0388 for your complimentary consultation at the new location, 1980 South Tuttle Avenue. For more information and monthly specials, visit www.neoderm.com.

Heart Healthy

Keep your heart running on all cylinders with Sarasota Memorial’s 18-point heart inspection. If we showed our hearts the same respect we show our cars—preventive maintenance with advanced diagnostics to keep engines running smoothly—heart disease wouldn't be the nation's No. ! killer. Sarasota Memorial's Cardiovascular Disease Assessment Center offers just that—a novel series of 18 non-invasive heart, lung and circulation tests that do more than detect risk factors, they predict and reveal the earliest markers of disease, giving you warning signs and time to steer clear of the danger zone.

The state-of-the-art tests are analyzed by a board-certified cardiologist specializing in cardiovascular disease prevention and compiled in a summary report for your primary care doctor.  A physician referral is not required. Learn more by calling (941) 917-6969 or visit www.smh.com.

New at the Y

TRX Suspension Training equipment and instructor-led classes are now offered by the Sarasota Y. TRX workouts use heavy-duty bands, gravity and your own body weight to improve balance, strength and flexibility. The workout program was designed by US Navy Seals, but can be adjusted to any fitness or strength level. Also at the Y is ActivTrax, a free online program for Y members that creates custom workouts depending on your fitness goals and/or physical limitations. ActivTrax also has an in-depth nutrition component that tracks your calories and nutrients, builds menus and shopping lists for you and even recommends new foods based on the types of workouts the program creates for you. Come visit any of the three Sarasota Y locations for a complimentary visit and introduction to these and other tools that will improve your health.