Dermatology

When it comes to protecting your skin, sunscreen is one of your best defenses. But with countless options on the shelf—SPF numbers, mineral vs. chemical, spray vs. lotion—it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. As a dermatologist, I often get asked: “How do I select the best sunscreen?” The answer depends on your skin type, lifestyle and preferences—but here’s how to make the best choice for you.

Spring has arrived, which means Mother's Day is quickly approaching! This year marks the Christie Clinic Department of Dermatology’s third year offering a Mother’s Day Giveaway, where we invite you to take a moment to reflect and praise a mom in your life by submitting a story about what makes that person so special. The Christie Clinic Department of Dermatology wants to take this opportunity to provide a few very deserving mothers in the Champaign-Urbana and surrounding area with a gift of pampering. Our giveaways will include skincare or services from our partners at Alastin, EltaMD, Fraxel, Merz, Skin Ceuticals and SkinMedica.

When it comes to skin health, many believe that increased melanin (which results in darker skin tones) offers complete protection against skin cancer and other dermatological conditions. While melanin does provide some natural defense against UV damage, it does not eliminate the risk of skin cancer or other skin-related issues. Regular skin checks are crucial for early detection and prevention of serious conditions.

We are thrilled to announce an expansion to the cosmetic dermatology team with the addition of Dr. Lori Fiessinger beginning to see patients this month. She brings a wealth of experience and passion for enhancing natural beauty through advanced aesthetic treatments. With a focus on creating subtle yet impactful results, Dr. Fiessinger offers Botox and all other neuromodulators, filler, and Fraxel laser treatments.

When temperatures drop and days grow shorter, sunscreen often gets pushed to the back of our minds and of our skincare routine. However, protecting your skin from the sun’s harmful rays is just as important during the winter as it is during the summer. While the sun may feel weaker in cooler months, UV radiation is present year-round and can cause significant damage to your skin if left unchecked.

As the winter season approaches and temperatures begin to drop, it may be time to reassess your skincare routine. The combination of cool air outside and dry heat indoors can strip your skin barrier of moisture, leading to dry, itchy, flaky skin.