Peggy Chen Skin Cancer & Mohs Surgery

02/11/2025

I know a lot of my patients wear foundation with SPF on a daily basis, and do not then apply a separate sunscreen in additional to their foundation. But is this enough to protect the skin? Sunscreens in NZ are finally placed under regulation under the sunscreen act in 2022 - which means all sunscreens sold in NZ must comply with the AUS/NZS 2604:2021safety standard. However, foundation is included. Which means the sunscreen manufacturers, retailers and importers of foundation with a SPF claim does not need to be responsible for independently testing the SPF to make sure it meets the claim on the label. So my recommendation would be to apply a separate sunscreen daily then apply a foundation on top.

27/10/2025

Happy 50th birthday .

25/10/2025

Finally the long awaited long weekend is here. Spring in NZ is not scorching hot, but the UVB index is already soaring. We often forget that UV rays pe*****te through clouds on an overcast day like this. Remember to apply sunscreens even when you are driving. Have a sun safe long weekend everybody.

23/10/2025

Acne is a very common condition. It is more than just a skin issue. It impacts negatively on peoples psychosocial well being. Early and appropriate treatment can help prevent scarring and minimize psychosocial impact.

23/10/2025

Acne is more than just a skin issue. It impact negative on an individual's psychosocial wellbeing. Seek medical help early to minimise psychosocial impact, and to prevent scars.

20/09/2025

Have you ever thought about what you eat may be contributing to your acne? Here are some tips from Dr Chen

Our gut and our skin is closely linked.What we eat can have significant impact on our skin health particularly in people with acne.Western diet high if fat a...

04/09/2025

Find out how your gut is linked to your skin and what you eat does matter for your acne.

29/08/2025

A common question asked to Dr Chen- with public education and Sun smart practices, will Dr Chen have a job in 5-10 years time?
Here are some official figures that may surprise you.

https://youtu.be/YJy7juugITU?si=i1MAMbne27WRdAZh

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Patients often ask now that we are all educated about UV protection - Will I as a Dermatologist who Sub -specialises in Skin Cancer Detection and Skin Cancer...

24/08/2025

Taranaki once again sits at the top of the leaderboard for having the highest rate of melanoma nationally. Unfortunately this number has not changed in the last 10 years.

16/08/2025

Beach umbrella vs. SPF100 sunscreen- which one would you choose?

16/08/2025

If you are under the shade- do you still need to wear sunscreen? UV can be reflected off different surfaces therefore even if you are under the shade sunscreen is still very important.

02/08/2025

What does SPF mean and how is it calculated?