By Cassandra TurnerRecently Rescu. met with NY-based dermatologist, psychologist and skin saviour to the stars Dr Amy Wechsler, who was in Australia to talk sun care on behalf of Invisible Zinc.
Dr Wechsler, who counts celebs such as Tyra Banks (pictured) and supermodel Veronica Webb, amongst her dedicated clients, is passionate about skin and anti-ageing and specialises in treating the effects that both the mind and physical behaviours have on the appearance and condition of the skin. She is also the author of The Mind-Beauty Connection, which provides a 9-day plan to de-stress the skin and reverse ageing.
RESCU: It’s scary to learn that not all sunscreens are doing the job properly. Why haven’t we been taught this before?
Dr Amy Wechsler: “It sure is scary that we are not all aware of this! This is because it has not yet been legislated by the (Australian) government that sunscreen labels need to mention UVA blockage. A sunscreen rating system needs to be put in place to inform people of the quality of protection offered by the particular product. I believe companies like Invisible Zinc and the Cancer Council are working to help change regulations.”
RESCU: You call UVA rays “the silent wrinkler”. Tell us about the damage they do and just how sneaky and dangerous they are.
Dr Amy Wechsler: “UVA rays will not give you an immediate tan or burn – therefore you are unaware that they are even affecting your skin. Each day we are unaware of the amount of UVA rays we are getting as they can basically infiltrate any clear surface – such as your car window or even in the window in an aeroplane! UVA penetrate deeper than UVB causing wrinkles, overall skin damage and finally skin cancer.”
RESCU: Is it ever too late to start sun protection and try to repair our skin? What treatments would you recommend for sun-damaged skin?
Dr Amy Wechsler: “It is never too late to start wearing sunscreen! There is no particular age that your skin stops repairing, but as we get older the ability to repair damaged skin decreases.
There are options for treating sun-damaged skin, including cosmetic procedures, though my number one prevention and treatment is sunscreen – every single day. I also recommend treatments such as Topical Retinoid (Retina A), laser and skin peels, though I mainly see women over 30 for these.”
RESCU: You look amazing – at least 10-15 years younger than you are! What’s your secret?
Dr Amy Wechsler: “My youthful complexion is hands down due to my religious use of a daily sunscreen – I use the Invisible Zinc Environmental Skin Protector daily.”
Invisible Zinc Skin Protector, RRP $24.95/30ml. For stockists call 1300 738 850.
The Mind-Beauty Connection is published by Free Press and is available from all good book stores.
