Clarus Dermatology

06/03/2026

The Truth About Acne Face Mapping: Myth vs. Science 🔍✨

Ever seen charts claiming a pimple on your forehead means your liver is stressed? 🤨 While traditional face mapping is a massive online trend, dermatology looks at breakouts through a completely different lens.

The short answer? Organs don't send distress signals to your face. 🙅‍♀️ Instead, localized acne is usually caused by local anatomy, hormones, and daily habits.

Here is what science actually says about where you break out:

The Jawline & Chin 🧬 (Hormones): This area is highly sensitive to fluctuations in androgens (hormones that stimulate oil glands), which often trigger deep, cystic breakouts.
The Forehead & Hairline 🧢 (Products/Friction): Often caused by heavy hair products clogging pores (acne cosmetica) or friction from hats and sweatbands trapping bacteria.
The Cheeks 📱 (External Bacteria): Frequently linked to physical irritation (acne mechanica). Think about what presses here daily: dirty phone screens, unwashed pillowcases, or resting your face in your hands.
The T-Zone 💧 (High Oil Density): The nose and center forehead naturally have the highest density of oil glands on your body, making them prime targets for clogged pores.
💡The Takeaway: Instead of stressing over organ myths, look at your daily routine. Wash your pillowcases, wipe down your phone, and skip the heavy hair oils near your face! 🧼✨

🏥 Ready for a personalized skin routine? This content is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Every skin type is unique, and social media tips cannot replace an in-person evaluation. If you are struggling with persistent acne, schedule a consultation with one of our providers to create a safe, effective treatment plan.

Binh Vu, PA-C

05/25/2026

True or False Dermatology

05/19/2026

UV Index Explained

Ever check the weather and see a number labeled the Ultraviolet Index? That number tells you how strong the sun’s UV radiation is—and how quickly your skin can burn.

Here’s the quick breakdown:

0–2 (Low): Minimal risk. Most people are safe—but sunglasses are still a good idea. If you are someone who burns easily, sun protection for the skin is still needed.

3–5 (Moderate): Protection recommended: Use SPF 30+, hats, shade, etc..

6–7 (High): Skin can burn in as little as 15–25 minutes. Reapply sunscreen, wear hats, and limit direct sun.

8–10 (Very High): Extra protection needed. Skin damage and sunburn will occur if skin is unprotected. Avoid peak sun hours (10am–4pm). Seek shade, wear protective clothing and sunglasses, and use sunscreen.

11+ (Extreme): Burn risk in minutes. Stay out of the sun if possible. Use all sun protective measures.

Why it matters:
Higher UV levels increase your risk of sunburn, long-term damage, and skin cancer. Check the UV Index daily (it’s in most weather apps!) and plan your sun protection accordingly. And when in doubt, always use sun protection!

Megan Bell, PA-C

05/13/2026

Why Your Lips Need SPF Too

Most people remember sunscreen for their face—but forget one of the most vulnerable areas: their lips. Your lips have very thin skin and little natural pigment, which means they’re especially prone to sun damage.

Here’s why SPF on your lips matters:

Lips can burn quickly, especially during outdoor activities

Chronic sun exposure increases risk of precancerous changes and skin cancer on the lips

UV damage can cause cracking, scaling, and discoloration

How to protect your lips:
✔️ Use a lip balm with SPF 30 or higher
✔️ Reapply every 2 hours (or after eating/drinking)
✔️ Choose broad-spectrum protection (UVA + UVB)
✔️ Don’t forget your lips on cloudy days or in winter!

If your lips are persistently dry, scaly, or have a spot that won’t heal—get it checked by one of our providers. Your lips need protection just like the rest of your skin—don’t skip them!

Megan Bell, PA-C

l

05/06/2026

Tanning Beds: What They Really Do to Your Skin

Myth: “A base tan protects my skin”

Fact: A tan is a sign of skin injury, not protection

Indoor tanning exposes your skin to intense ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which directly damages DNA in your skin cells. This not only accelerates skin aging but also significantly increases your risk of Melanoma—the deadliest form of skin cancer.

What tanning beds actually do:

Increase skin cancer risk

Speed up aging → wrinkles, sagging, dark spots

Cause burns and skin damage, even if you don’t notice it right away

Damage your skin at the cellular level

Bottom line: There is no such thing as a “safe” tan from a tanning bed. Avoid the tanning beds — protect your skin!

Megan Bell, PA-C

05/04/2026

☀️🖤 May is Melanoma Awareness Month ☀️🖤

Protect your skin every day!

For a limited time:
Purchase 2 EltaMD UV Stick + receive a FREE beach bag
(while supplies last!)

Our EltaMD UV Stick is:
✔️ Easy, mess-free application
✔️ Perfect for on-the-go sun protection
✔️ Great for all skin types

Stop by any of our locations to grab yours and stay protected all summer long.

Your skin will thank you. 💛

05/01/2026

What if we told you 15 minutes could save your life? ⏱️☀️

May is Melanoma Awareness Month, and our message to you is simple: Skin checks save lives. Did you know that when detected early, the 5-year survival rate for melanoma is over 99%? That’s why your annual head-to-toe skin exam is one of the most important appointments you can make all year.

While we are always here to check your skin, you are your own first line of defense! Between visits, do a self-check at home and look out for the ABCDEs of Melanoma:

A - Asymmetry: One half of the spot doesn't match the other.

B - Border: The edges are irregular, ragged, notched, or blurred.

C - Color: The color is not the same all over and may include shades of brown, black, pink, red, or white.

D - Diameter: The spot is larger than a pencil eraser (though melanomas can sometimes be smaller).

E - Evolving: The mole is changing in size, shape, color, or elevation, or is bleeding/itching.

Don't leave your health to chance. If you have a spot that is new, changing, or just feels "off," it’s time to see us.

04/28/2026

Baby Sun Protection
I had a child this past year, so I’m trying to practice what I preach when it comes to sun protection, especially for babies. Battling my little one to keep her hat on is always a challenge but as caregivers we can only try our best! Protecting your little one from UV rays early on is one of the best things you can do for their long-term skin and eye health.

Infants (0–6 months):

• Keep your baby out of direct sunlight—avoid sunscreen for now, as their skin can’t fully process the chemicals.

• Dress them in lightweight, breathable clothing that covers arms and legs, and always use a wide-brimmed hat for head, face, ears, and neck.

• Use stroller shades, umbrellas, and removable mesh window shields or UV window film for cars.

• Sunglasses with UVA/UVB protection are important—eye damage can start early, and most UV eye damage occurs before age 18.

• Take walks in the early morning or late afternoon, and always use a stroller with a sun-protective cover.

Babies (6–12 months):

• It’s now safe to start using sunscreen designed for infants. Look for hypoallergenic, fragrance-free options that won’t sting their eyes. Titanium dioxide and zinc oxide are mineral based options that are great for a young one’s skin.

• Continue all the protective measures above, and apply broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+) to any exposed skin.

• Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before going outside and reapply every 2 hours, or after swimming or heavy sweating. Remember, no sunscreen is waterproof—only water-resistant for 40–80 minutes.

Starting sun protection early sets up healthy habits for life. Keep your baby shaded, covered, and protected so they can enjoy the outdoors safely!

Nathan Jones, PA-C

Source https://www.ucsfbenioffchildrens.org/education/sun-safety-for-children-and-babies

04/13/2026

Red and Blue Light Therapy

I’ve been getting a lot more questions lately about at home blue light and red light therapy masks, wands, and devices.

Blue light therapy helps target acne-causing bacteria, making it a great option for clearer skin without harsh medications.

Red light therapy works deeper in the skin to reduce inflammation, support healing, and stimulate collagen—helping improve fine lines, redness, and overall skin health.

But here’s where it’s important to understand the difference:

UV light (ultraviolet light) is not the same as these therapies. UV light has shorter, more intense wavelengths that can damage your skin cells, accelerate aging, and increase your risk of skin cancer.

Visible light (like red and blue light) has longer, gentler wavelengths that can be used therapeutically when applied correctly.

With so many at-home devices now available, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or assume they’re all safe and effective. The reality is: not all devices are created equal, and improper use can lead to irritation, burns, or ineffective results.

That’s why it’s so important to talk with one of our providers before starting light therapy. We’ll help you:

• Choose the right device (if at-home is appropriate)

• Customize a treatment plan for your skin goals

• Avoid unnecessary risks while maximizing results

Your skin deserves a plan that’s both safe and effective!

Nathan Jones, PA-C

Source: Clinical efficacy and tolerability of new low-level blue and red light therapy technology in the treatment of mild to moderate acne
Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 76AB73

04/06/2026