Sun, Skin & Science: A Dermatologist's Guide To Healthy Skin

You've heard it before: Avoid the sun to protect your skin—but is that really the whole story? Teo Soleymani, a double-board-certified dermatologist and skin cancer surgeon, joined the mindbodygreen podcast to debunk myths, share expert strategies, and help you embrace a realistic approach to skin care. From groundbreaking treatments to simple lifestyle tweaks, Soleymani reveals actionable, science-backed tips to protect, repair, and rejuvenate your skin.

Instead of relying solely on sunscreen, he suggests thinking beyond the bottle. Physical blockers like hats, long sleeves, and seeking shade provide better protection. For those with a genetic predisposition, routine skin checks and preventive measures, like supplements (hello, nicotinamide, and polypodium), are game changers.

For best results, stick to mineral-based sunscreens and avoid sun exposure during peak UV hours. He also introduces the concept of minimal erythema dose (MED)—the amount of sun your skin can handle before turning red. Knowing your personal MED can help you enjoy the sun responsibly, gradually building your UV tolerance without burning.

Soleymani explains that your skin is often the first place where inflammation shows up. What you eat, therefore, has a direct impact on your health.

Shifting to an anti-inflammatory diet can ease conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and acne. It's proof that the connection between your gut and skin is more powerful than you think.

Here's what he recommends:

With these expert-backed tips, you can take simple yet effective steps to care for your skin. Whether it's wearing a hat, choosing a retinoid, or enjoying an anti-inflammatory meal, small changes can make a big difference. It's time to love the skin you're in and give it the care it deserves.