In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by dermatologist, and my old pal, Dr. Katie Manno. This is a chat I’ve been wanting to highlight on this podcast for years now, and it lived up to my lofty expectations. Dr. Manno gives us a thorough runthrough on all things skin health related and how it pertains to extended time in the outdoors, including why sun protection is so important, the difference between chemical and mineral sunscreens and which is better for the trail, how much and what SPF sunscreen hikers should use, the safety profile of chemical sunscreens and what chemicals specifically to avoid, sun protective clothing and the science behind UPF ratings, vitamin D considerations when using sunscreen and/or sun clothing, what supplements and skin care products she recommends to optimize skin health, and much more. Needless to say, you will come away from this chat smarter than you entered it. 

We wrap the show with why one former guest always uses a bear canister when thru-hiking, we opine on whether donating hair can land you in the slammer, I give an update on my 175-mile lap around Denver, and the triple crown of dog breeds.

Backpacker’s Pantry: Use code “THETREK” for 20% off at backpackerspantry.com.

Gossamer Gear: Use code “SNUGGLEBUG” for 20% off shelters at gossamergear.com. 

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Interview with Katie Manno

• Katie's Practice

Time stamps & Questions

00:04:40 - Reminders: The Trek is hiring a full-time marketing position! Get notified by subscribing to the newsletter. We’re going to Austin and support us on Patreon!

00:08:55 - Introducing Katie

00:09:50 - When did you know you wanted to be a doctor and dermatologist?

00:12:30 - Do you analyze people’s skin when you’re talking to them in the real world?

00:13:40 - What are the risks and consequences of not taking sun protection seriously?

00:15:15 - How does your skin color impact how careful you need to be with sun exposure?

00:17:32 - Can you totally eliminate your risk of skin cancer?

00:18:20 - Is avoiding a sunburn enough?

00:20:10 - What’s the perception of spray tans from the dermatology perspective?

00:21:01 - Is there any reason to be skeptical about the chemicals in sunscreen?

00:25:18 - Do you avoid any chemical sunscreens?

00:26:58 - Discussion about Elta MD and chemical vs. physical sunscreens

00:30:18 - What sunscreen would you recommend to backpackers? 

00:32:23 - Is it true that above an SPF it’s all the same?

00:35:35 - Do you have a preference between sun protective clothing and sunscreen?

00:37:16 - Does body hair protect against sun damage?

00:38:42 - Is something being covered by clothing enough protection?

00:40:30 - Discussion about SPF and UPF ratings

00:42:30 - What are the main factors that determine the UPF rating?

00:44:14 - If someone applies sunscreen perfectly, do they need protective clothing?

00:45:10 - What would you send out a new PCT hiker out with?

00:46:34 - Walk us through what the various types of skin cancer

00:51:12 - Does sunscreen block vitamin D absorption?

00:53:19 - Is there a safe way to get vitamin D through sun exposure without sunscreen?

00:55:12 - What is the UV index?

00:57:27 - What is the correlation between vitamin levels and skin cancers?

01:01:38 - Are there other supplements we should be taking?

01:04:15 - What are the options for people who’ve had a lot of past skin damage?

01:10:44 - Do you have any favorite skin products?

Segments

Trek Propaganda: Why I Always Carry a Bear Canister When Thru-Hiking by Moose Juice

QOTD: Can donated hair be used as DNA evidence in a crime?

Denver Orbital Trail Update

Triple Crown of dog breeds

One Star Trail Reviews

One Minute Gear Review

Mail Bag

5 Star Review

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