#338: How the Sun ACTUALLY Impacts Skin Aging and Cancer Risk: Skin Cancer Controversies, Sun Safety Secrets, and Anti-Aging Breakthroughs With Teo Soleymani, MD
I’m so excited to bring you this episode, especially as we wrap up National Skin Cancer Month and look forward to the summer sun. Today, I’m joined by Teo Soleymani, MD—a double board-certified dermatologist, fellowship-trained Mohs and facial reconstructive surgeon, and an expert in all things skin cancer—plus, he’s as entertaining as he is knowledgeable.
In this episode, Dr. Soleymani and I dig into the real science behind sun exposure, unpacking the myths and controversies that swirl around sun safety and skin aging. We discuss why not all melanomas are caused by the sun, the difference between various skin cancers, and how genetics and lifestyle both play critical roles—sometimes in ways you might not expect. If you’ve ever wondered whether you should slather on sunscreen religiously, or if embracing more sunlight is actually good for you, we’re here to offer the clarity and nuance that’s so often missing from the conversation.
We’ll also talk about some innovative ways you can protect and rejuvenate your skin from the inside out—including the latest research, groundbreaking supplements (like Dr. Soleymani’s Sunpowder), and what emerging science has to say about collagen, nicotinamide, astaxanthin, and more.
If you care about how your skin looks, want to avoid unnecessary fear-mongering, or just want to know how to enjoy the sun safely and smartly, this episode is for you. And if you know someone who could benefit from this info—share it with them! Let’s head into summer empowered and informed.
Listeners of this podcast can receive 15% off of SunPowder when you go to sunpowder.co/discount/NAT15 (it’s .co not .com or else you won’t find it).
What We Discuss:
Sun exposure: fear vs. benefits debate ... 00:06:38
Genetics vs. sun in driving skin cancer risk ... 00:09:04
Types of skin cancer explained ... 00:10:38
HPV, environmental toxins, and non-UV causes ... 00:22:35
Burning vs. safe sun—practical advice ... 00:21:24
Sunscreen: mineral vs. chemical, what matters ... 00:36:01
Problems with spray sunscreens ... 00:40:45
Melanin, UV damage, and skin aging ... 00:13:40
Melasma: hormones and stubborn pigmentation ... 00:47:19
Estrogen, collagen, and topical supplements ... 00:49:18
Astaxanthin and polypodium—internal sun protection ... 00:56:01
Nicotinamide: strong evidence for cancer prevention ... 01:04:11
Sunpowder supplement: trials and benefits ... 01:07:43
Laser resurfacing and reduced cancer risk ... 01:12:33
Genetics, immune health, and testing limits ... 01:15:31
Where to find Sunpowder + connect with Teo ... 01:18:53
Our Amazing Sponsors:
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Qualia - Senolytic - Clinically tested formula with 9 plant-based, vegan ingredients designed to help your body clear out zombie cells—so you can feel younger, faster. Visit qualialife.com/nathalie and use promo code NATHALIE to save 15%
Young Goose L.A.D.R. Serum - Powered by light-activated DNA repair enzymes, NAD+, and collagen peptides, it reverses damage while you go about your life. Sunlight? Red light therapy? It all helps this serum work smarter, not harder. VisitYoungGoose.com—use code NAT10 to get started, or 5NAT if you’re an existing customer. Future-proof your face.
More from Teo Soleymani:
Website: www.californiadermatology.com and https://sunpowder.co/discount/NAT15
Instagram: @teosoleymanimd
Instagram: @drinksunpowder