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Tanning Beds & Skin Cancer: Why the Glow You Seek Could Destroy Your Skin

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The Link Between Tanning Beds and Skin Cancer

By Dr. Gary Jayne Rothfeld

Oh, vanity, thou art a cruel mistress!
For some, the path to youthful glory lies in kale—wretched, tasteless, kale—while others, poor souls, seek the golden touch of a sun-kissed glow. But alas, some find themselves in the most unfortunate of places: the tanning bed, a cruel contraption that promises beauty but delivers only the folly of age. It is a box of light, indeed, but one with a dark and twisted fate. For here, one does not gain a radiant aura but rather a future spent with dermatologists and oncologists.

A Tragic Comedy: The Tanning Bed

One may step into these beds, hoping to emerge as a sunlit god, a radiant figure in the pages of ancient myth. But what dost one truly receive? The glow of death, for one doth return not with the elegance of a golden Olympian, but as a leathered relic, weathered and cracked like an old couch left out to die in the rain. If thou dost continue this folly, thou art not to a vacation in Greece, but rather a quick and unfortunate visit to a doctor whose office smells faintly of antiseptic and regret.

The Science of “I Told You So”

And here come the learned men of science, with their lab coats and calculators, shouting from the mountaintops: Tanning beds are deadly! It’s not merely a cosmetic disaster, but a health catastrophe in the making. These UV rays—those very rays which we should seek in moderation—doth penetrate and mutate our skin like a terrible play, one with no ending save for wrinkles, sunspots, and the ominous shadow of skin cancer. Aye, they turn our once smooth visage into a battleground of lines and spots, a reminder of the years we’ve lost.

Consider this, if you will: Using a tanning bed before the age of 35 increases your risk of melanoma by 75%. Seventy-five percent! Dost thou think thy beauty is worth such a price? Yet still, the masses march in, eager for that "perfect tan," as though they are heading toward some paradise of glory.

“But doc,” you may cry, “I need my glow!” Ah, yes, but what you need, dear friend, is your skin. You may glow for a moment, but be prepared for your next "glow-up" to come in the form of surgical excisions rather than flattering Instagram selfies. The true glow comes from within—within a body that is healthy and well cared for.

How to Age in Reverse (Hint: It Doesn’t Involve Broiling Yourself)

Now, listen well, for I shall impart the secrets to you, without the need for rays that burn and blight:

  1. Self-Tanner Exists. – Yes, the modern world has bestowed upon us a glorious invention that allows us to achieve a golden glow without roasting our skin like a Thanksgiving turkey. Use it! Be free of the UV tyranny!

  2. SPF Is Thy Best Ally. – Think of SPF as your knight in shining armor. Would you venture out into battle without armor? Would you stand naked before the fire? Nay! The same principle applies to your skin. SPF 30 or higher, and reapply as the sun doth continue its relentless journey across the heavens.

  3. Hydration and Nutrition. – Your skin is not some couch that requires "breaking in." It is a temple! Keep it moisturized, feed it well, and nourish it with the kindness it deserves. Forget the sun damage. It’s the enemy, and the enemy must be avoided at all costs.

And what if the damage is already done? Fear not, for I, Dr. Gary Jayne Rothfeld, stand ready to lend my hand. With over 40 years of experience, I have witnessed the tragic consequences of neglecting one’s skin. As an elite swimmer, Senior Olympian, and a man who actually gets his 9 hours of sleep each night—because yes, I practice what I preach—I am uniquely qualified to restore what has been lost.

📞 Call or text 212-644-4484 before you find yourself regretting your sunlit sins.


DR GARY JAYNE ROTHFELD

Acne Mechanica: Causes, Prevention, and Treatments – Dr. Gary Jayne Rothfeld

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Acne Mechanica: How Your Clothes, Sweat, and Bad Decisions Are Waging War on Your Skin

By Dr. Gary Jayne Rothfeld

Most people believe acne is just a teenage rite of passage—like bad haircuts and regrettable crushes. They assume that once you pass your high school graduation and get your first tax bill, pimples miraculously vanish.

Wrong.

Acne doesn’t "grow up" with you. It mutates. It adapts. And in the case of Acne Mechanica, it finds new and creative ways to ruin your reflection. This type of acne doesn’t just show up uninvited—it’s earned through sweat, friction, and all those decisions you swore were good for you. It’s the blistering irony of self-improvement: work out, break out. Protect your skin with a mask, inflame your skin with a mask. The universe has jokes.

The Oppressive Regime of Acne Mechanica

There is no democracy here. Acne Mechanica is a dictatorship, and the rules are simple:

  1. Anything pressing against your skin—be it a helmet, a chin strap, a backpack, a sports bra, or the collar of that "slim-fit" shirt you refuse to size up—will cause irritation.
  2. Add sweat, heat, and bacteria, and congratulations! You’ve just declared war on your own face.
  3. If left unchecked, this type of acne won’t just visit—it will colonize. And before you know it, your forehead, jawline, shoulders, chest, and back will look like they lost a battle you didn’t even know you were fighting.

Your Gym Is a Pimple Factory

The modern gym is marketed as a temple of health, but let’s be honest: it’s mostly a breeding ground for bacteria and misplaced confidence. You walk in, determined to sculpt the body of a Greek god, and you walk out with a face that looks like it lost a wrestling match with an oil spill.

The culprits:
✔ Tight, synthetic clothing: These “performance fabrics” trap sweat and oil against your skin like a hostage situation. You think that compression shirt makes you look fit? It does. It also makes your pores scream for help.
✔ Shared equipment: Every bench, mat, and machine is a crime scene of bacteria. Do you think everyone wipes down their equipment after use? If so, I have some oceanfront property in Kansas to sell you.
✔ That post-workout delay: You finish sweating, sit around texting, and then maybe—maybe—shower an hour later. That’s how Acne Mechanica wins. You marinate in your own skin’s mistakes.

The "Maskne" Revolution: Because One Pandemic Wasn’t Enough

Ah yes, the face mask. A symbol of safety, a shield against airborne doom... and a personal humidity chamber for your jawline. While masks have done their part in protecting humanity, they’ve also been moonlighting as acne incubators.

Let’s talk maskne. The recipe is simple: take one cloth or disposable mask, add a full day of breathing, bacteria, and skin irritation, and let it simmer in place. Before long, your chin and cheeks are staging their own uprising.

How to fight back:
✔ Change your mask often. A reusable mask should be washed daily. If you’re still wearing that same disposable mask from last week, just know your skin hates you.
✔ Use a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer. Think of it as armor—preventing friction and keeping bacteria from settling in.
✔ Skip heavy makeup under the mask. If your skin is already suffocating, there’s no need to seal the deal with a layer of foundation.

The Strategy for Beating Acne Mechanica

If acne were a fair fight, you’d have won by now. But it’s not. So let’s talk battle plans.

✔ Benzoyl Peroxide or Salicylic Acid: Your first line of defense. These warriors clear out bacteria and unclog pores like tiny, invisible janitors.
✔ Retinoids: Think of them as the secret intelligence agency of skincare—identifying threats before they surface.
✔ Hydrocolloid Patches: Tiny but mighty. They absorb gunk while you sleep and work harder than most interns.
✔ Shower ASAP. Don’t just towel off and call it a day. That sweat you’re letting dry? It’s acne’s version of a welcome mat.
✔ Wear breathable fabrics. Cotton, bamboo, or moisture-wicking materials that actually let your skin breathe. Your muscles don’t need a straitjacket.
✔ Sanitize everything. Your gym towel, your yoga mat, your headphones, your phone screen (oh yes, that thing touching your face is filthier than you think).

When DIY Solutions Fail, Call a Professional

Now, let’s get real. You can scrub, dab, and pray all you want, but some cases of Acne Mechanica are beyond the reach of drugstore products. That’s when you need a real dermatologist—not some random "aesthetic expert" who took a weekend course in injectables, and definitely not a strip-mall Botox peddler who "watched some YouTube tutorials."

Look, New York is a magical place. You can get a Michelin-star meal at 3 AM, you can hail a cab without making eye contact, and you can—technically—get Botox from someone who didn’t finish 10th grade. There are med spas popping up like pigeons in Central Park, and not all of them are run by, shall we say, the most qualified hands.

In fact, some of these places are getting sued for malpractice. Some are getting raided. And yes, some are even getting arrested for using black-market Botox from China that has about as much regulation as a back-alley poker game. If you want to gamble, at least go to Atlantic City—don’t do it with your face.

Call a Board-Certified Dermatologist Before Your Skin Becomes a Crime Scene

If your acne is resisting all your best efforts, it’s time to bring in the big guns. Call or text my office at 212-644-4484 and book an appointment with someone who actually knows what they’re doing. Because when it comes to Acne Mechanica, you either take control—or it takes control of you.


DR GARY JAYNE ROTHFELD

How Diet Affects Teenage Skin | Dr. Gary Jayne Rothfeld

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How Diet Affects Teenage Skin Health

By Dr. Gary Jayne Rothfeld

Your Face, the Unwilling Canvas of Your Diet Choices

Ah, teenage years—the era of self-discovery, first loves, and a complexion that could double as a warning label for bad decisions. One day, you're cruising along with dewy, innocent skin, and the next? Your forehead has more activity than a Wall Street trading floor on a Monday morning.

And sure, they’ll tell you it’s just hormones, fate, or the wrath of some acne god exacting punishment for your sins. But let’s be honest—a big chunk of your breakouts is because you eat like a feral raccoon.

You are what you eat, and right now, you’re 40% soda, 30% processed carbs, 20% regret, and 10% “Why is my face doing this to me?”

Let’s break it down before your pores take out a restraining order against your diet.

Sugar: The Sweet Assassin

Oh, sugar. That beloved, addictive little fiend, lurking in everything from your morning cereal to the "healthy" granola bar you pretend is a good life choice.

When you pump your body full of sugar, your insulin levels spike like bad stock prices, and in response, your body freaks out. Your oil glands start working overtime, pumping out sebum like they’re being paid per ounce, and suddenly, your face is a slip-and-slide for bacteria.

What follows? Clogged pores, inflammation, and a pimple so aggressive it could run for office.

And don’t even try the “But I drink fruit juice, so it’s natural” argument. Juice is just soda in a cardigan—all the sugar, none of the fiber.

Dairy: The Silent Saboteur

You think dairy is your friend. You’ve been sold a dream—some nonsense about strong bones and calcium. Meanwhile, behind the scenes, dairy is organizing a full-scale coup on your complexion.

Milk, cheese, ice cream—they all come loaded with growth hormones, because nature designed them to fatten up baby cows, not help you survive finals week. These hormones wreak havoc on your skin, triggering inflammation and acne so persistent it should have its own zip code.

And skim milk? Oh, that’s the worst of all. It’s like dairy concentrate—fewer fats, more sugar, and a vendetta against your face.

So what’s the alternative? Almond milk? Sure. Oat milk? Fine. Cashew milk? That’s for people who want attention.

Fast Food: The Delicious Disaster

Look, I get it. You’re busy. You’re hungry. The golden arches call to you like a siren song. But let’s be real—fast food is basically a breakout buffet.

  • Trans fats? Check.
  • Processed oils? Check.
  • A side of regret? Always.

These cheap, greasy oils clog your pores, inflame your skin, and turn your complexion into a live demonstration of what not to do. Your skin isn’t just breaking out—it’s protesting.

If you insist on eating fries, balance it out with an avocado. If you must inhale a burger, ditch the soda and drink some water. If your meal came out of a drive-thru window, at least eat a vegetable this week.

Hydration: The Most Boring, Yet Essential Skincare Product

You’ll drink six iced coffees a day, but ask you to have a glass of water and suddenly you’ve got objections? Drink water. Your skin is begging you.

Dehydrated skin isn’t just dry—it’s angry, flaky, and desperate for moisture. Meanwhile, every skincare product you use is sitting on your face like, “We’re doing our best, but he’s giving us nothing to work with.”

What to Eat for Clear, Glowing Skin

You don’t need a $300 skincare routine—you need a meal that doesn’t come in plastic packaging.

  • Leafy greens – Because your skin is tired of being greasy and needs some balance.
  • Berries – Packed with antioxidants, or as I call them, “pimple assassins.”
  • Avocado – The right kind of fat (also doubles as overpriced toast).
  • Salmon – For skin smoother than your best excuse for not doing homework.
  • Sweet potatoes – Because beta-carotene gives you that Instagram-filter glow.
  • Green tea – Nature’s way of saying, “I got you.”

Final Thoughts: Your Face is a Reflection of Your Plate

If you eat like you hate yourself, your skin will return the favor. Teenage acne is not some unavoidable rite of passage—it’s your body screaming, “Maybe don’t eat like a cartoon character.”

So here’s the deal: Eat better. Drink water. Cut sugar. Drop dairy. Add good fats.

And if diet alone isn’t enough? Call me. If your skin still looks like it’s holding a grudge, I’ve got 40 years of experience in winning the war against acne.

📞 212-644-4484 – Because your face deserves better.

About Dr. Gary Jayne Rothfeld

Dr. Gary Jayne Rothfeld is a board-certified dermatologist, a former competitive swimmer representing the United States, and a Senior Olympian in the metric mile. With over 40 years of experience, he has treated Hollywood celebrities, professional athletes, and regular teenagers who just want their skin to stop betraying them.

📍 Practice: 629 Park Avenue, New York, NY
📞 Call/Text: 212-644-4484

 

DR GARY JAYNE ROTHFELD

#1 Botox Doctor :The Science, The Risks & Why You Need a Real Doctor | Dr. Gary Jayne Rothfeld

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Understanding the Science Behind Botox—And Why You Should See a Real Doctor

There was a time, not long ago, when the word “Botox” conjured images of the elite—the movie stars, the Park Avenue aristocrats, the untouchable few who floated through life with foreheads as smooth as lies told at a congressional hearing. Now? Botox is as common as bad coffee, and just as many people are getting burned.

The Magic (and Madness) of Botox

Let’s get something straight: Botox is not snake oil. It is a meticulously engineered neurotoxin, a precision tool used to relax muscles and, in the hands of a licensed, trained, and—most importantly—not-a-convicted-felon medical professional, it can restore youth in ways that a gallon of kale juice and a positive mindset never will. The science is sound: Botox blocks signals between nerves and muscles, stopping the endless repetitions of frowning, squinting, and looking deeply disappointed in humanity that lead to wrinkles.

But here’s the kicker: just because Botox works doesn’t mean everyone should be wielding it. Which brings us to the Wild West of Manhattan’s Botox Scene—where you can get injections from an Ivy League-trained dermatologist, or from a guy who learned his technique from a YouTube tutorial in a basement in Queens.

The Botox Bandits of New York

New York, in all its glory, is not just home to the best doctors in the world—it is also home to the most breathtakingly reckless medical fraudsters this side of a dystopian novel. If you thought the guy selling knockoff handbags on Canal Street was sketchy, wait until you hear about the Botox injectors using unregulated, back-alley toxins shipped in from warehouses in China. These rogue operators rent out pop-up spaces, slap an "Aesthetic Lounge" sign on the door, and lure in customers with Instagram filters and promises of "natural results." What they fail to mention is that "natural" might include a paralyzed eyebrow, drooping eyelid, or, in some tragic cases, a one-way ticket to the morgue.

Recently, a so-called “cosmetic specialist” was arrested right here in Manhattan after injecting unsuspecting clients with counterfeit Botox. The charges? Practicing medicine without a license, fraud, and, for all we know, criminally bad judgment. But they aren’t alone—these cases keep popping up faster than new reality shows, and the lawsuits are piling up like tourists in Times Square.

The Horror Stories (That Could Have Been Avoided)

  • A woman in SoHo thought she was getting a great deal—until she realized her “Botox” was actually an industrial-strength toxin banned in three countries.
  • A man in Midtown got injections from an unlicensed provider and ended up in the ER with facial paralysis and a lawsuit.
  • Someone in the Bronx thought they were saving money by going to a “budget clinic” but later found out they had been injected with vegetable oil—because apparently, some people believe Crisco is the elixir of youth.

And let’s not forget the illegal home Botox parties—because nothing says "safe medical procedure" like a syringe next to a bowl of guacamole.

Why You Need a Real Dermatologist or Plastic Surgeon

Listen, Botox is a medical procedure—not a beauty hack, not a Groupon deal, and certainly not something that should be injected by someone who couldn’t pass 10th grade but somehow got their hands on a needle and a dream. You wouldn’t let a random guy on the subway perform LASIK on you, would you? So why trust your face—the thing everyone sees first—to anyone less than an actual expert?

A board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon understands facial anatomy, knows the precise dosing needed for natural-looking results, and—this is important—will not run off to Mexico if something goes wrong. In New York, you have access to some of the best medical professionals in the world. Why risk your face (and your life) on some discount Botox "artist" whose last job was working the register at a bodega?

Final Thoughts: Do It Right or Don’t Do It At All

At the end of the day, Botox is an art and a science—and like all things in life, you get what you pay for. If the price seems too good to be true, it probably comes with a side of criminal activity. And if you’ve been thinking about getting Botox, do yourself a favor: see a real doctor, get real Botox, and make sure they have real medical credentials (not just a well-lit Instagram page).

And if you’re in doubt, call or text my office at 212-644-4484 and set up an appointment—because when it comes to your face, cutting corners is never a good look.

 

DR GARY JAYNE ROTHFELD

Cosmetic Dermatology for Men: Specialized Treatments for Male Skin | Dr. Gary Jayne Rothfeld

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Cosmetic Dermatology for Men: Specialized Treatments for Male Skin
By Dr. Gary Jayne Rothfeld

Men, let’s be honest with each other: we’ve spent far too many years pretending we don’t care about our skin. We’ve sidestepped moisturizers, shrugged off sunscreen, and avoided anti-aging treatments like we avoid commitment. But here’s the truth: our skin is a map of the journey we've taken, and, frankly, it needs a little TLC to keep us looking as sharp as we think we are.

You see, male skin is distinct, not just in the way it looks (though let’s admit, that’s part of the deal), but in how it behaves. It’s thicker, oilier, and tends to age in ways that differ from our female counterparts. So, when it comes to cosmetic dermatology, men, it's time to step out of the shadows and into the light. This is about more than vanity—it’s about embracing the changes in your skin with wisdom and self-respect.

The Science Behind Male Skin

Men’s skin, quite frankly, doesn’t get enough credit. While women’s skin may get all the attention in the beauty world, men’s skin is tougher, with a thicker dermis, more collagen, and larger sebaceous glands that produce more oil. But here's the rub: while this oiliness can help retain moisture and fight wrinkles for a longer period of time, it also leads to acne, enlarged pores, and a host of other issues. Men’s skin is like that friend who looks like they’ve got it all together but still somehow manages to wreck everything at the party.

Specialized Treatments for Male Skin

  1. Acne Solutions
    If you’re one of those guys still battling acne, you’re not alone. Acne isn’t just a teenage issue—it’s an ongoing battle for many men. This is where we step in. Chemical peels, laser treatments, and topical treatments tailored for male skin can clear up that stubborn acne while addressing the deeper issues of excess oil production.

  2. Anti-Aging and Wrinkle Treatments
    Let’s face it, the clock is ticking. But here’s the beauty of it: male skin ages differently. Sure, you might get crow’s feet earlier, but you also have the advantage of thicker skin that holds onto its youthful elasticity for longer. That said, we have a variety of treatments to address sagging, fine lines, and wrinkles. From Botox (not just for the ladies) to dermal fillers, the goal is to smooth things out without losing your manly edge. And no, we’re not going to make you look like a statue—just a fresher version of yourself.

  3. Sun Damage Treatment
    Men, we all know the sun is the enemy. But we’ve spent so many years basking in it, thinking we were invincible, that now we’re paying the price. The sun leaves its mark—age spots, wrinkles, and in more severe cases, skin cancer. Don't fret. Laser treatments, IPL (Intense Pulsed Light), and specialized creams can help reverse the damage, bringing back a healthier glow without looking like you’ve spent the last 20 years hiding under a rock.

  4. Beard and Mustache Care
    Here’s something that deserves more attention: your facial hair. We’ve all been there—growing a beard because, hey, it’s the thing to do. But a poorly maintained beard? It can be a breeding ground for acne, irritation, and rough patches. Beard facials, trimming, and treatments can keep your facial hair in tip-top shape while maintaining the skin underneath. It’s about making sure you look rugged, not like you’ve been lost in the woods for a decade.

  5. Hair Loss and Thinning Treatments
    Men and hair loss—if there's one thing we all have in common, it's that. The bald truth is, hair loss is inevitable for many men. But while we can’t stop time, we can slow down the process. Hair restoration treatments, from PRP (platelet-rich plasma) therapy to advanced hair transplants, can revitalize the scalp and stimulate growth.

  6. Skin Tightening
    As men age, some parts of the body start to sag, and no, it’s not just your muscles after a heavy workout. The skin can lose its firmness, too. Laser treatments, radiofrequency therapy, and ultrasound technology can help tighten up the skin, giving it a more youthful and toned appearance without the need for surgery.

  7. Pigmentation and Age Spots Treatment
    Pigmentation issues and age spots are a natural result of exposure to the sun, hormones, and genetics. But with cutting-edge treatments like fractional lasers and targeted light therapy, these dark spots can be minimized, giving you a clearer, more even complexion.

  8. Customized Skincare Products
    Your skin is unique, and so should be your skincare. The days of using a generic, one-size-fits-all lotion are behind us. With the right consultation, I can recommend products specifically formulated for men’s skin, addressing issues like dryness, oil control, and sensitivity. This is personalized skincare at its finest.

  9. Facial Sculpting for Men
    The notion that only women seek facial contouring is outdated. Men also desire sharper cheekbones, a more defined jawline, and a chiseled look. Non-invasive treatments, such as fillers and skin-tightening procedures, can reshape and define your face in a subtle, natural way. This isn't about turning you into someone you're not—it's about enhancing your best features.

  10. Post-Treatment Care
    Finally, every great treatment deserves great aftercare. Proper hydration, avoiding the sun, and following a consistent skincare routine are key to ensuring your results last. If you’ve undergone any treatment, I’m here to help guide you through the aftercare process to ensure you get the best results possible.

About Dr. Gary Jayne Rothfeld

Dr. Gary Jayne Rothfeld, a board-certified dermatologist with over 40 years of experience, is not only an expert in skin care but also an elite athlete. A former competitive swimmer who represented the United States in international competitions, Dr. Rothfeld now competes as a Senior Olympian in the metric mile swim. His commitment to health, fitness, and maintaining an active lifestyle is reflected in his approach to dermatology. With his vast expertise in treating skin conditions, Dr. Rothfeld offers cutting-edge, personalized dermatologic care tailored to each individual’s needs, especially for men seeking specialized treatments for skin rejuvenation, aging, and other concerns. Whether you're battling acne, wrinkles, or sun damage, Dr. Rothfeld combines his extensive medical knowledge and athletic discipline to ensure that your skin reflects the vitality you feel.


DR GARY JAYNE ROTHFELD

How to Prevent Wrinkles Without Botox | Dr. Gary Jayne Rothfeld, Elite Dermatologist

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How to Prevent Wrinkles Without Botox
By Dr. Gary Jayne Rothfeld

Now, I know what you’re thinking: “Dr. Rothfeld, are you suggesting that I can avoid wrinkles without the magical potion of Botox? Are you out of your mind?” But, my friends, sit back and let me tell you a tale of skin, science, and common sense.

Wrinkles, like taxes and the inevitable decline of your favorite restaurant’s quality, are as certain as death itself. There’s no way to escape them entirely—time marches on, and so does the slow, steady journey of fine lines forming on our faces. But here’s the catch: while you can’t stop the clock, you can slow it down. And you can do so without the needle, without the appointments, without the expense, and without the fear that one day your face will resemble a wind-worn leather bag. There is a better way.

First things first, and I’m going to hit you with some hard truth: your skin is not a car. It can’t be fixed with a “touch-up” or an overhaul every few months. No, your skin is a living, breathing organ that requires care, maintenance, and a little bit of love. It deserves the same attention you give your muscles when you’re lifting weights, your heart when you’re swimming those miles, and your mind when you’re doing your best to avoid all those inescapable distractions life throws at you.

The best way to prevent wrinkles without Botox is simple. Hydrate. Hydrate like you’ve just crossed the Sahara. Water is a miracle. It keeps your skin supple, plump, and wrinkle-free. I should know—after decades of treating skin and using my own face as a living experiment, I can confidently tell you that when I keep hydrated, my skin looks younger. It’s as if the wrinkles see the water coming and just throw in the towel.

Second, protect your skin from the sun. Yes, it sounds like the kind of advice your grandmother would give, but she had a point. The sun is a skin assassin. It’s not just the obvious burns that are the issue; it’s the constant, invisible damage it does over time. If you want to avoid wrinkles, wear sunscreen. Every. Single. Day. You don’t need a massive bottle of the stuff; just apply it generously and often. And, please, don’t skimp on the SPF—your future self will thank you when your skin doesn’t look like an old handbag by the time you’re 50.

Now, let’s talk about sleep. Ah, sleep—our favorite and most neglected indulgence. If you don’t sleep enough, your skin will tell on you. It will show up with sagging, puffiness, and those fine lines you’re trying to dodge. You want to look younger? Get your nine hours. You’ll be amazed at how rejuvenating that sleep can be. I should know, as an elite swimmer, bodybuilder, and all-around healthy aging enthusiast, I make sure to get my nine hours every night. It’s a game-changer.

Next up, eat well. Your body is what you feed it, and that includes your skin. Consuming plenty of antioxidants will help keep your skin strong and healthy. Your goal? More berries, nuts, and green vegetables. Less processed food. It’s not about quick fixes, but long-term investments in your health, and yes, your appearance.

But here’s where it gets interesting: alcohol. Ah yes, the “social lubricant” that seems to loosen our inhibitions, but oh, the damage it does to our skin. Alcohol, my friends, is like a slow-acting toxin. It dehydrates your skin, making it more prone to fine lines and wrinkles. It causes inflammation, which accelerates aging, and it inhibits your body’s ability to repair itself. I see it all the time—those late-night selfies with a glass of wine in hand, thinking you look great, but waking up the next morning with dull, lifeless skin. And guess what? Your photos look better without the booze. It’s true. When you’re hydrated, well-rested, and not nursing a hangover, your face shines in a way that no Instagram filter can replicate.

Now, let’s talk about the latest research—because we have to face facts: alcohol is now being linked to an increased risk of skin cancer. Studies have shown that regular alcohol consumption can disrupt the delicate balance of cells in the skin, making them more susceptible to the mutations that lead to cancer. The Harvard Health Blog recently published an article about the loose link between alcohol and skin cancer, which you can read for more information here. You don’t need to quit your favorite drink entirely, but just be mindful of its effects. That glass of wine may be fine every now and then, but don’t let it become a daily habit that accelerates the aging process and puts your skin at risk.

And finally, if all of the above doesn’t help—if you’ve been hydrating, protecting your skin, eating well, sleeping like a baby, and cutting back on alcohol—but you’re still looking in the mirror and wondering why those fine lines won’t budge, give me a call. Sometimes, even the best prevention needs a little help. Call my office at 212-644-4484, and let’s set up an appointment. After all, I’ve been doing this for over 40 years, and I’ve helped thousands of patients just like you keep their skin looking young, fresh, and beautiful—no Botox required.


DR GARY JAYNE ROTHFELD