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Great Tips For Skin in Winter

admin — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 19:00:30 +0000

Come winter, and you have to come to come to terms with the various skin problems and here are some tips for skin in these cold days. This is especially true if you do not live in a tropical climate. The cold and dry wind saps the natural oil off your skin, making it chaffed and cracked. However, this doesn’t mean that you have to silently suffer it.

By following some simple tips for skin, you can overcome this seasonal problem.

Ella L. Toombs, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and director of Aesthetic Dermatology of Dupont Circle, in Washington, D.C. says, “During winter months, the air, devoid of moisture content sucks up the oil and water off the skin, making it dry. Apart from the development of cracks, there is also the loss of skin cells. The indoor heating system compounds this problem.”

“If you have ever visited the warm tropical area, you would have known how smooth your skin feels. This is due to the humidity present in the air. It doesn’t allow the skin cells to lose its natural oil,” she elaborates further. Unfortunately, if you are already afflicted with skin problem, then it is bound to worsen during winter.

“The cold weather makes the already existing skin ailments like eczema, rosacea, psoriasis or dandruff more severe,” says Bruce Katz, MD, a private practice dermatologist and director of the JUVA Skin and Laser Center in New York City. Even if you are not suffering from any particular skin ailment, it is better to follow the tips for skin provided below.

Following are some of the tips for skin care regarding some particular skin ailments that aggravates during winter.

If you suffer from eczema, it is advisable to wear loose cotton clothes. Garments made up of wool or other synthetic materials should be avoided.
“Basically eczema is a condition when the skin becomes more sensitive that manifests in the form of rashes. When covered with synthetic materials, there would be friction which causes irritation and rashes,” says Katz.

Psoriasis is a condition when there is over-production of skin cells. Due to this, plaques or patches on the skin are formed. Thomas Russell, MD, clinical professor of dermatology at the Medical College of Wisconsin says, “The cold compounds the problems of psoriasis. Small cracks are developed on the skin due to less moisture in the air. So a moisturizer should be used.”

“People generally bathe in hot water during winter. The hot shower you take opens up the cracks. So, for elderly people taking bath once in a week is enough,” Russell says. “It is better to bath in warm water instead of hot water. Avoid using soap all over your body and do not rub your skin with a towel as it will abrade the skin,” Toobs aggress.

People usually suffer from strep during the winter months. Strep can accentuate the problem of psoriasis. So, people who have psoriasis should guard against contracting it.
“Strep compounds the effects of psoriasis. So, during the winter months, you should watch for any outbreak of strep in your locality and consult a dermatologist if you suspect that you might have contracted it,” says Russel.

Dandruff or seborrhea is another skin problem that gets aggravated during the cold weather. “You need to be careful while dealing dandruff during winter months. Instead of using shampoo it is better to go for medicinal treatment. Some of them are available in the form of shampoos,’ says Russel.

Tips for skin to prevent dryness

Keeping your skin moist is the best and only way to take care of your skin.
One of the tips for skin care is not rub the skin with a towel after taking your bath. Just pat your skin dry with a soft cloth and apply a good moisturizer afterwards. Moreover, she also advises to apply it on the nails as well since they tend to break up during winter.

Going on a vacation to places where the weather is warm and humid is by far, the best but costly option. But you must use a sunscreen lotion with at least a SPF of 15 to protect your skin from any damage to your skin. Everyone has different skin types and different skin problems, hopefully these tips for skin in winter will help some people during these cold days.

Tips And Tricks To Reduce Wrinkles

admin — Mon, 31 Oct 2011 18:00:46 +0000

The wrinkles on the skin are something that surely betrays age, apart from giving you a dull look and people are always looking for the fastest and best way to reduce wrinkles. You may be in your late thirties or early fifties; the very appearance of those creases and lines makes you conscious of your passing age.

This is more so in the case of women. People believe this to be inevitable and can do very little to stop it. However, experts like Robin Ashinoff, MD, a dermatologist at the Hackensack University Medical Center in New Jersey feel that with the availability of new technology, the appearance of wrinkles can be avoided or at least delayed to a great extent, giving you that much-desired glowing skin.

The opinions of Dr. Ashinoff and several experts are enumerated below in the form of 23 tips that can help you to reduce wrinkles. Some of the suggestions may require visits to the clinic of a dermatologist.

Things to do to reduce wrinkles

Keep away from sunlight
Researches point out that exposure to sunlight is by far the biggest reasons for the formation of wrinkles. One particular study carried out by Derrick Antell, M.D. reveals that it can have a greater effect than hereditary. Difference of sun-exposure even on identical twins and siblings can have a different bearing on the appearance of wrinkles and the overall looks.
Use sunscreen to reduce wrinkles
The American Academy of Dermatology advises to use sun screen lotion while going out which will provide protection against skin cancer as well as go a long way to reduce the development of wrinkles on your skin.
Quit smoking
Although it is yet to be fully established, many studies point out that smoking can be responsible for the development of wrinkles. Smoking releases the enzyme that separates the collagen and elastin which are two of the vital components in the skin. Twin Research Unit at St. Thomas Hospital, London conducted a study on twins and found that either of the twins who smoked develop more wrinkles and his or her skin is thinner by 40%.
Sleep well helps to reduce wrinkles
If you do not get adequate sleep, excess cortisol, which is a hormone responsible for the breaking up of the cell in the skin, is produced. On the contrary, adequate amount of sleep accentuates the production of HGH (Human Growth Hormone). This hormone in the body makes the skin thick, elastic and wrinkle-free.
Sleep on your back
While sleeping in the face-down position can result in a furrowed brown, sleeping in the side-on position can produce sleep-lines on the cheeks and chin which would remain so even after you are up. That is why the American Academy of Dermatology advises to sleep on the back instead of sleeping on the sides or face-down.
Avoid squinting
The AAD observes that any repetitive movement of the facial muscles like squinting can eventually result in wrinkles. So, use sunglasses to avoid the wrinkles on the face and also keep the eyes safe from the damage due to sunlight and reduce wrinkles.
Take fish regularly
“Eating fishes like salmon contain enough protein and omega -3 fatty acid, which is helpful to keep your skin youthful”, says Perricone. So, consuming plenty of cold water fish goes a long way in reducing wrinkles.
Take ample amount of soy helps to reduce wrinkles
Although the findings are only limited to studies conducted on animals, soy is known to check the harmful effects of sun-exposure on the skin. A case-study, which was published in the European Journal of Nutrition, reveals that the intake of soy, along with fish and extracts of tomato, grape seeds, and tomatoes brought in appreciable changes in the elasticity and structure of the skin after only six months.
Take cocoa instead of coffee helps to reduce wrinkle development
Epicatchin and catchin, are a couple of flavanols found in cocoa. It makes the skin healthier by increasing the blood circulation in skin, protecting it from the harmful effects of sun.
Take plenty of vegetable curry and fruit salads
“Anti-oxidants protect the skin from free radicals,” says Kruas. Fruits as well as vegetables have plenty it. So, taking them is important for a glowing skin.
Apply moisturizer
“Women often are not conscious of the good effects of moisturizer and go for anti-aging products. But using a moisturizer provides a wet look and camouflages the wrinkles. So, it is better to use a moisturizer,” advices Ashinoff.
Take care not to wash your skin too much
Experts at the Maryland Medical Center proscribe against frequent rinsing of your face with soap in tap water as it washes off the natural oil from the skin. This will result in the appearance of wrinkles on the skin. So, instead of using soap, it is better to wash the face with a cleanser.

Some topical applications that can reduce wrinkles

Researches reveal that the topical application of some of these products can help in reducing the wrinkles. In fact, many of the skin care products available in the market contain them.

Alpha-hydroxyl acids (AHAs)
Use of alpha-hydroxyl acids on the skin removes the dead cells on the skin which prompts the production of new skin cells. This reduces wrinkles. It can also hasten up the production of collagen.
Retinoids
This is the only product used for the treatments of wrinkles that has been approved by the FDA. Retinol is Vitamin A in its natural form and when used in higher doses can also be effective like Retin A, minus any side effects like itching and burning sensation.
Vitamin C
Research conducted at Tulane University shows that the use of topical vitamin c can have beneficial effects on the skin. They include protection of the skin from harmful effects of UV rays and production collagen. The L-ascorbic acid is known to be the best vitamin c that stops the formation of wrinkles on the skin.
Idebenone
Idebenone is a potent anti-oxidant. A study paper which part of the Dermatology Journal points that after using it for one and half months the rough and dry nature of the skin decreased by 26%, wrinkles reduced by 29% and moisture content increased by 37% and the overall structure and look of the skin improved by 33%.
Growth fats
Topical application of them can increase the production of collagen, protect the skin from skin damage and reduce wrinkles.
Pentapeptides
Topical application of pentapeptides increases the production of collagen and reduces wrinkles. This has been revealed in a study paper that was tabled in the recently held conference of dermatology. The National Institute of Health also supports this.

Useful Medical/Spa treatment to reduce wrinkles

Botox
The injection of Botulinum toxin A in its purified form relaxes the muscles below the wrinkled skin. This helps the overlying skin to be wrinkle-free.
Wrinkle fillers
Dermatologists fill up the space just below the wrinkle in order to make it taut. Hyluronic acid, collagen and other artificially prepared compounds are used for the purpose. ArteFill, Juvederm and Restylane are some of the treatment options.
Laser/light treatment
In this case, light is used to abrade a layer of the skin. This activates the natural mechanism that produces the collagen in the body. This in turn, helps in making the skin wrinkle-free.
Chemical peels
Instead of light, the top most layer of the skin is abraded with the help of chemicals as well. This gives a boost to the ‘collagen production’ mechanism in the body. As a result, the skin becomes healthier and wrinkle-free.
Dermabrasion
Dermabrasion, done with chemical crystals and vacuum suction abrades the overlying layer of the skin. This helps the body to produce new skin. Formation of this new layer of skin reduce wrinkles in the skin.

It’s best to consult a dermatologist regardless whether you choose home remedies or modern cosmetic procedures to reduce wrinkles.

What You Need To Know About Female Hair Loss

admin — Mon, 19 Sep 2011 18:00:00 +0000

Female hair loss is a very common occurrence but may not receive enough medical attention to it. “Almost 60% of women above the age of 70 and 50% below the age of 30 suffer from it. But instead of trying to cover it through different hairstyles unsuccessfully, it is better to seek treatment at the earliest,” says Mary Gail Mercurio, MD, associate professor of dermatology at the University of Rochester in Rochester, N.Y.

During a meeting of the American Academy of Dermatology in Miami Beach, Fla., Mercurio talked about the different types of female hair loss found in women as well as the different treatment options available.

Common forms of female hair loss

The genetically related hair loss or androgenetic alopecia is by far the most common form of hair loss found in women. When it sets in at an early age, like the late teenage, it can result in severe hair loss.

Unlike the case of men, hair loss in women does not take place in the form of bald patches or a receding hairline on top of the scalp. But the density of hairs on the crown progressively wanes. The time period of the growth and falling of hair also shortens and the hairs do not grow to its normal length.

Widening of the parts and shortening of the pony tails are the signs of hair loss.

Treatments of female hair loss

FDA has only approved Minoxidil 2% as the only topical medical treatment for hair loss in both men and women. Minoxidil 5%, meant for the treatment of hair loss in men is also effective female hair loss as well. But caution must be used while using it as sometimes, they can initiate hair growth on the face. Both are available in the form of liquid over the counter. The minoxidil 5% is also available as foam. The medicine increases the time period of the growth and fall of hairs, thereby, allowing it to grow to its optimum length.

Minoxidil is applied twice in a day and it normally takes 3 to 4 months to produce any appreciable change in the hair density. The earlier you start its use; the better will be the result.
Some recent studies indicate that the level of iron in the body is associated with hair loss in women. So, doctors check the level of ferritin, a protein that shows the iron content in the body. If it is low, then taking iron supplements is a good way to replenish it.

The Hair Max Laser Comb is also being suggested by doctors. Its use hastens up the blood circulation and other mechanism in the body, which is responsible for hair growth. Its use is only approved for men but women also use it. Although it may not be as effective as minoxidil, studies reveal that there was improvement in 45% of users after two months and in 90% users after 4 months.

Sometimes, hormonal abnormality, like the production of androgen or male hormones, can also be behind hair loss in women. If the pattern of hair loss is similar to that of men, then it can be due to this. Doctors prescribe oral contraceptives or spironolactone in such cases.

Finasteride ( earlier known as Proscar) is used for the treatment of hair loss in men resulting due to androgens. A study revealed that 62% of women found considerable improvements after taking synthetic progestin drospirenone through female contraceptives. So, it can also be effective for female hair loss as well. But the study is yet to be fully established. It can also produce some harmful effects on male fetus. So, it is proscribed for pregnant women or who intend to bear child.

Female hair loss vis-à-vis Hair care

The styling of hair is often thought to be the reason behind hair loss in women. But this notion has got no real basis. The coloring, perming or washing has no role in hair loss in women. Doctors advise to use an antidandruff shampoo with ketoconazole (anti-fungal) or zinc pyrthione that is both antifungal and antibacterial to control female hair loss.

Female hair loss as the symptoms of other disorders

Female hair loss could also be associated with other problems. Hyperandrogenism, a condition resulting from excessive secretion of androgens is one of them. The common form of hyperandrogenism in women is ovarian functional ovarian hyperandrogenism or polycystic ovary syndrome which can result in infertility, weight gains, development of acne, irregular menstruation cycle are other syndromes.

Women suffering from ovarian hypoandrogenism can also have high blood pressure and excess fat in the belly area; conditions that are known to increase the risks of diabetes, cardiac problems and strokes. The hair loss resulting due to hyperandrogenism can be stopped by the use of minoxidil but you need to take care of other medical conditions.

Ladies, don’t suffer female hair loss in silence, take that first step and consult your doctor.

What You Need To Know About Teeth Whitening

admin — Mon, 01 Aug 2011 18:00:42 +0000

With the recent advancement in the field of dental cosmetics, plenty of teeth whitening options are available for everyone. It can be the teeth whitening strips available over the counter or the treatment of a professional dentist. So, you can keep on smiling without any inhibitions.

But caution should be maintained while using any teeth whitening product on your own, for sometimes they can result in some side effects.

Go for a thorough teeth examination before starting a teeth whitening regimen

The teeth might need some cleaning or there might be cavities.
In such cases, it is better to defer the teeth whitening process. Sometimes, there might be inflammation in the gums. Detection and treatment of all these conditions can only be done by the dentist.
Seek the advice of your dentist about the most suitable teeth whitening regimen available over the counter for your teeth and the extent of whitening achievable.
Select your teeth whitening regimen judiciously
The teeth whitening products available over the counter are enriched with peroxide, especially carbamide peroxide, as the bleaching agent. Its concentration normally varies from 10% to 20%. So, it is better to start with a product that contains just enough of it for your teeth. In the case where the product is not providing the whitening effect but you are able to tolerate it, then you may go for a product that has a higher concentration of the bleaching agent.
You should look for the ADA seal of acceptance on the product.
Follow the instruction assiduouslyThe teeth whitening products, like the strips or gels, should be left for a specific period. For most products it is generally for half an hour in a day for about couple of weeks. Allowing it to stay for longer than the recommended time can result in irritation of the gums and other problems.
Do not take soda, sports drinks or any other acidic drink within two hours of the teeth whitening session.

Take note of the following things for teeth whitening

Women who are pregnant or have infant babies should defer their teeth whitening.
The product states that the crown teeth are not amenable to teeth whitening. So unfortunately, if your crowns are stained, it will give an uneven look to your teeth.
Sensitive teeth
Teeth whitening can produce mild inflammation of gums and tooth sensitivity. Sometimes, there may be irritation in the gums if the trays are ill-fitting. If that is so, stop the treatment immediately.

Don’t make it a habit.
Some people go for teeth whitening at short intervals. After your teeth attain the desirable color, you can do it couple of times at most in a year. Going for a touch up session every month is sufficient once you achieve the satisfactory result after doing the teeth whitening.

Top Skin Care Myths Exposed

admin — Mon, 02 Aug 2010 18:00:23 +0000

These top skin care myths are so widely circulated that people often take them as they are. It’s not easy to unlearn old habits, so it’s better to separate the fact from the myths early on before it becomes a routine.

Top skin care myth #1: Facial exercise tones up the facial muscle making it look younger.

Contrary to popular belief, facial exercises can actually lead to more wrinkle lines on the face. Although, you may not be aware of it, but the muscle and the skin on the face attach directly to each other, sans any tissues or ligament in between. Hence, the constant smiles would lead the development of laugh lines. Similarly, other daily facial exercise can develop furrows and lines along with sagging.

Top skin care myth #2: Having a tan can alleviate the acne problems.

Although UV light is believed to kill skin bacteria but getting it straight from the sun light may not be a safe option. While your tanned skin would hide the acne, you would expose yourself to the risks of skin cancer. So, discuss it with your dermatologist for better ways to deal with your acne problem. Doing it through sun exposure is fraught with serious danger and hence is not advisable.

Top skin care myth #3: Washing the face with soap and water would make it acne-free.

Cleaning the face with soap and water regularly is desirable. But while it is okay to clean the dirt and make-up off your face, scrubbing it vigorously is not good. Massaging it gently with a cleanser with tiny exfoliating beads or soft tissues is the ideal way to do it. Using alpha-hydroxyl acid lotion to clean up the old cells and generate new ones is also advisable. To remove mascara, use something that is specifically meant for it.

Top skin care myth #4: Wrinkles can be erased with wrinkle creams.

Notwithstanding all the tall claims made by the ads, the fact of making the wrinkle lines less visible temporarily is achieved through the humectants and moisturizers that hydrate the skin. In order to have a marked improvement in the texture of the skin and erase wrinkle lines significantly, you need to go for surgical or laser treatment. Although wrinkle lines can be filled in through Restylane, the process need to done repeatedly (more than twice in a year). Similar is the case with Botox. Now researches are being conducted to assimilate active ingredients like hylaronic acid into nano particles so that they reach deep into the skin. Use of Vitamin A creams is presently the best way to deal with the problem, as it helps the collagen formation and accentuates regeneration of cells.

Top skin care myth #5: Squeezing out the pus helps the pimple to heal it soon.

The practice of squeezing out the pus from the pimple is a smart thing to do. By squeezing out the pus, you may actually force the pus and its debris deep into the skin, thereby making it prone to inflammation and scars later. Using a comedone extractor to press and roll it over the pimple to extract the pus is a better way to do it.

Top skin care myth #6: Shaving the legs accentuates the growth of the hair.

Researches have confirmed this age-old belief to be wrong. Hair growth is dependent upon the environment, hormone and age-related genetic factors. So, go for waxing, shaving or use of depilatory creams without any apprehension of any change in the texture of hair and pace of hair growth. In case of excessive hair growth, opt for laser hair removal.

Top skin care myth #7: Healing of the wounds and prevention of scars through vitamin E ointment.

As an anti-oxidant, vitamin E promotes the utilization of oxygen by the body and hence may protect the skin from damage. But it is not known to prevent scarring. On the other hand, its prolonged use may lead to the development of allergy on the skin. Massaging the new scar gently to facilitate circulation and taking vitamin E rich foods like green leafy vegetables and fortified cereals may help it heal faster. Applying silicone elastometer gel to newly healed skin is a new way of preventing scarring.

Top skin care myth #8: Eating junk foods may lead to the development of acne.

While taking high amount of junk food is undoubtedly unhealthy, it is yet to be firmly established as a contributory factor for acne. Anxiety, use of anabolic steroid, increased levels of testosterone, use of facial creams to clog the pores and genetic history are the factors that are responsible for the development of the acne.

Top skin care myth #9: Vitamin D is necessary. So, we should tan our skin more.

Doctors always recommend of having more vitamin D. Although it is important to have enough vitamin D, but having it through excessive exposure to sun is not the proper way to do it. Getting it through adequate doses of vitamin supplements is ideal. You would find many such vitamin D and calcium supplements in the market.

Top skin care myth #10: Some skin care products are effective for the elimination of cellulite.

It is a fact that cellulite can occur both in case of thin and obese women and it is very stubborn despite massaging and moisturizing the area. Even wearing support hose, mechanical manipulation and suctioning also do not help, apart from the lessening the appearance of cellulite in women. The dimpling is due to the fibrous bands occurring between the fat cells. Anti-oxidants like acai and active ingredients like caffeine are being used of late, but without much success. The cellulite can be camouflaged to certain extent through the use of self-tanners.

How many of these top skin care myths have you heard of? Do share with us if you know of other myths.