Questions on Internal Photoprotection in Dermatology, With Noreen Galaria, MD

In this segment of the most recent Skin of Color Savvy episode, Noreen Galaria, MD, a board-certified dermatologist, founder of Inner Glow Vitamins, and private practice clinician, discussed emerging approaches to photoprotection alongside practical strategies for physician wellness, reflecting key themes from the American Academy of Dermatology Annual Meeting and the Skin of Color Society (SOCS) Scientific Symposium.

Galaria first highlighted the growing interest in “internal photoprotection,” describing it as a shift toward a more comprehensive, layered approach to sun protection that extends beyond traditional sunscreen use. While sunscreen remains foundational in blocking ultraviolet radiation, she explained that increasing attention is being given to antioxidants that work at different levels within the skin cell. Specifically, she outlined how certain compounds may target distinct cellular components: nicotinamide acting at the nuclear level to support DNA repair and reduce nonmelanoma skin cancer risk, polypodium leucotomos reducing oxidative stress within the cytoplasm, and astaxanthin protecting the cell membrane. This complementary, mechanism-based strategy reflects a broader evolution in dermatology, moving from generalized antioxidant use toward more intentional selection based on cellular targets. Galaria noted that this approach may help address multiple outcomes of sun exposure, including pigmentation, photoaging, and carcinogenesis, particularly as environmental factors such as UV exposure continue to intensify.

The discussion then shifted to physician wellness, where Galaria shared insights from a panel she moderated focused on sustainable self-care practices. She emphasized that burnout remains highly prevalent, but solutions may lie less in large, aspirational changes and more in small, repeatable habits integrated into daily routines. Drawing on concepts such as “habit stacking,” she described how clinicians can attach wellness behaviors—such as brief physical activity, posture resets, or mindfulness exercises—to existing routines, thereby reducing barriers to consistency. This approach, she noted, helps make self-care more accessible, particularly for physicians already experiencing time constraints and fatigue.

A recurring theme in the wellness discussion was the importance of sleep, which Galaria identified as a high-impact yet often overlooked intervention. She highlighted the widespread issue of chronic sleep deprivation among clinicians and suggested practical strategies such as establishing consistent wind-down routines, limiting late-night screen exposure, and incorporating opportunities for recovery sleep when possible.

Overall, this segment underscored a dual focus on innovation and sustainability within dermatology, with Galaria emphasizing both the advancement of science-driven, multi-layered photoprotection strategies and the need for realistic, habit-based approaches to maintaining clinician well-being.

Editor’s note: This summary was made with the help of AI tools.