Female Care » Skin disease

Using Retin-A To Treat Stretch Marks

Martin — Fri, 23 Jul 2010 19:13:32 +0000

When I was pregnant with my first child, I tried my hardest to prevent stretch marks by using all of the cocoa butter and vitamin E creams I could find. But it was no use. I had horrible, reddish-purple stretch marks across my whole abdomen…I looked like a striped beach ball!

Stretch marks are not just limited to pregnancy however. They can be caused by rapid weight fluctuations (weight loss or weight gain), growth spurts, overzealous exercising…and there is no way of telling who is going to get them. Whether or not you get stretch marks will be determined by how elastic your skin is. The supportive tissue underneath your skin isn’t as “stretchy” as it is in some people, then the tissue can develop micro-abrasions (very small tears) that change the color and the texture of your skin. So, unfortunately, it is all genetics! If other members of your family are stretch mark prone, you probably will be too. (Gee, thanks Mom!)

Up until a few years ago, none of the topical cream treatments for stretch marks were particularly effective. However the introduction of Retin-A on the market (.01 percent Tretinoin cream) to combat acne led to discoveries for other off-label uses for the cream. The biggest treatment to hit the news was Retin-A’s results on reducing wrinkles, but it also works wonders on stretch marks!

If the stretch marks are a year old or younger (still red in color) you can apply Retin-A to speed the fading process (the Retin-A helps constricts the blood vessels in the area making the marks less read) and to shrink the stretch marks somewhat. Retin-A won’t make the marks go away completely, but they will make them significantly less noticeable!

If you are pregnant or nursing, doctors warn not to use Retin-A. It has be proven unsafe to an unborn baby, and may become absorbed in to a nursing baby’s milk.

Retin-A may not be covered by your insurance for medical reasons…talk to your doctor about your coverage so you don’t receive an unpleasant surprise in your pharmacy bill!

Also, keep in mind that while Retin-A is the best topical treatment of stretch marks on the market, it won’t get rid of them completely. The best option for significant reduction to almost-complete removal of stretch marks is a dermatological laser treatment designed to stimulate new elastic fiber and collagen grown in the marked areas!

Flaxseed Supplementation: an integral aspect of vibrant health and anti-aging

lisitsa — Thu, 21 May 2009 14:08:02 +0000

One of the most impressive natural agents that has been shown to combat aging, reduce risk of degenerative disease and help optimize health and well-being is the daily ingestion of ground flaxseed.

Flaxseeds are the richest source of a wondrous bioactive substance known as SLD (secoisolariciresinol diglycoside) that provides the body with a multitude of benefits. In fact, flaxseeds contain 800 times more SLD and related compounds (mammalian lignan precursors) than any other food on earth. Ingesting the equivalent of two heaping tablespoons of ground flaxseed (flaxseed powder) or approximately 40-50 gm of flaxseed is of great value in protecting female reproductive organs, and the male prostate gland from disease processes, keeping cholesterol within a safe range, supporting liver and gallbladder function, improving large bowel health, reversing fibrocystic breast disease, possibly supporting bone density and improving the texture and smoothness of the skin (an effect that almost everyone notices within the first few weeks of use). Here’s how and why flaxseed should be part of your daily wellness plan whether you are a woman or man.

Flaxseed and Breast Health

The SLD in flaxseeds are converted by large bowel bacteria into two estrogen-like substances known as enterolactone and enterodiol.

Enterolactone and enterodiol are classified as phytoestrogens (plant-based estrogens), which means they can bind to estrogen receptors on breast tissue, the endometrium of the uterus and cells on the cervix, and tone down the over stimulation of the body’s more potent estrogens to these tissues. This is important because over stimulation of these tissues by the body’s estrogens (or hormone replacement therapy or the birth control pill) is linked to an increased risk of breast cancer, endometrial cancer and cancer of the cervix.
The phytoestrogens derived from flaxseed are so effective at protecting a woman’s reproductive tissues from estrogen over stimulation that a recently published Toronto-based hospital study demonstrated that flaxseed supplementation greatly improved symptoms in women who suffered from cyclical mastalgia.
Other studies have demonstrated that flaxseed supplementation can normalize estrogen production and reduce the build up of more cancer permissive estrogens (decrease synthesis of 16-alpha hydroxyestrone). Furthermore, flaxseed ingestion has been shown to directly slow down the breast cell division rate (antiproliferative), which is a factor in the prevention of breast cancer development. All indicators suggest that every adult woman (by age 16) should capitalize upon the benefits of flaxseed as it impacts the lifelong health of reproductive tissues.

Flaxseed and Prostate Health

The phytoestrogens derived from flaxseed helps to preserve prostate health in various ways. These phytoestrogens (enterolactone and enterodiol) block the over production of estrone hormone within fat cells. With weight gain, fat cells become larger and tend to manufacture more estrone hormone, which encourages prostate cells to synthesize more dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT, in turn, stimulates rapid cell division of prostate cells leading to prostate enlargement. DHT also promotes the growth of any existing prostate cancer cells. By age 50, 15 to 30 percent of men already have some cancer cells present within the prostate gland. Keeping DHT levels in check is considered to be an important step in preventing those cancer cells from dividing and spreading en masse throughout the prostate gland and metastasizing to other parts of the body. Thus, the ingestion of flaxseed on a daily basis provides important bioactive agents that indirectly slow the rate of prostate cell division, reducing the chances of prostate enlargement (benign prostatic hyperplasia) and hindering the promotion of cancer development. These same phytoestrogens also bind to receptors on the prostate gland helping to block the influence of other hormones, which may stimulate rapid prostate cell division. Other herbal compounds such as saw palmetto, pygeum africanum, soy isoflavonoids and beta-sitosterol can also block the build up of DHT and support prostate health. However, the daily ingestion of 50 gm of ground flaxseed each day should be included as a primary anti-aging, disease prevention strategy used by every adult male; as prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men and prostate enlargement problems will affect 80 percent of men if they live to old age.

Flaxseed and Cholesterol

Studies reveal that the same amount of flaxseed required to help maintain male and female reproductive tissue health (approximately 40-50 gm ground flaxseed) can also lower blood cholesterol by up to 10 percent in people with high cholesterol levels. More importantly, it lowers the bad cholesterol (LDL-cholesterol) by approximately 15 percent and concentrations of lipoprotein (a) [Lp(a)] by 7 percent. Lp(a) is now recognized as a significant risk factor for heart disease and flaxseed supplementation is the only known dietary intervention that can lower Lp(a) into a safer range if it is elevated. As it turns out, flaxseed contains soluble dietary fiber, which has proven cholesterol-lowering effects. All in all, daily flaxseed supplementation factors into a heart-healthy lifestyle program as well.

Flaxseed and Bowel Function

Flaxseed also contains insoluble dietary fiber, which acts as a bulking agent or roughage in the promotion of more regular bowel movements. Studies indicate that flaxseed supplementation provides a natural and gentle laxation effect, which is associated with relieving constipation, and promoting the health of the large bowel. Most people ingest less than half of the recommended amount of dietary fiber. By providing both soluble and insoluble dietary fiber, flaxseed is one of the few natural nutrition products that can help to keep cholesterol levels in check and maintain more optimal bowel function at the same time.

Flaxseed and Liver & Gallbladder Support

The daily ingestion of ground flaxseed has been shown to improve the flow of bile from the liver to the gallbladder, and ultimately into the intestinal tract. This effect helps to reduce the chances of gallstone formation and related gallbladder disease. Essentially, flaxseed supplementation induces a type of liver flushing effect, preventing the stagnation of bile, which can harden into stones if not eliminated in a timely fashion. Flaxseed supplementation also helps to prevent the conversion of bile into cholesterol, further facilitating a cholesterol-lowering effect by this action in the liver.

Flaxseed and Your Skin

Although the mechanism of action remains a mystery, virtually everyone who begins using flaxseed supplementation on a daily basis comments on the improved texture and smoothness of their skin all over their body. This is an effect that is usually noticed within the first month of using flaxseed on a daily basis. For those of us who use it, this is a wonderful additional benefit to its other premiere health-enhancing attributes.

How to Use Flaxseed

You can purchase ground flaxseeds (often marketed as flaxseed powder) or you can grind whole flaxseeds in a coffee grinder on a daily basis to maximize freshness of the product. Make sure your flaxseeds or powder are from organic sources.

Studies reveal that ingesting 40-50 gm of ground flaxseed per day provides the health-promoting benefits reviewed in this article.

This is the equivalent of two heaping tablespoons of ground flaxseed (flaxseed powder).

It can be mixed into a protein shake or fruit juice (e.g., orange juice). Many people sprinkle it on to their cereal or mix it into a bowl of low-fat yogurt. It can also be baked into low-fat muffins or flax-bread. The important thing is that you consume at least 25 gm per day, but more ideally 40-50 gm through whatever delivery system works for you. The best news is that it has a nutty, flavorful taste that is very palatable and enjoyable.

Flaxseed is truly one of nature’s gifts that you should incorporate into a proactive, anti-aging, disease prevention lifestyle. I personally recommend that you use it on a daily basis throughout your life.

Over-the-counter topical treatments

lisitsa — Wed, 20 May 2009 10:38:12 +0000

OTC topicals are available in pharmacies, drugstores, supermarkets or directly from the manufacturer without a doctor’s prescription. They come in many different forms. Two active ingredients, salicylic acid and tar, are approved by the FDA as treatments for psoriasis.

Salicylic acid is classified as a keratolytic, or peeling agent, and works by causing the outer layer of skin to shed. It is a common and effective treatment for a wide variety of skin problems. As a psoriasis treatment, it acts as a scale lifter, helping to soften and remove psoriasis scales.

Strong salicylic acid preparations can cause irritation if left in contact with the skin too long. The body may absorb too much salicylic acid if used over large areas of the skin. Salicylic acid may also weaken hair shafts and make them more likely to break, leading to temporary hair loss.

Coal tar

Tar derived from both coal and wood (e.g., juniper, pine) are both used for medicinal purposes. However, coal tar is the type used most commonly to treat psoriasis. Tar can help slow the rapid growth of skin cells and restore the skin’s appearance. In addition, it can help reduce the inflammation, itching and scaling of psoriasis. Tar products can vary dramatically from brand to brand. Generally, the higher the concentration of tar, the more potent the product.

Tar can irritate, redden and dry the skin. Test a tar product on a small area of the skin first. If reddening occurs, try applying the tar on top of a moisturizer. Tar can stain clothing, bed linen, and light-colored hair. Tar makes skin more sensitive to sunlight, so be sure to wash it off thoroughly, use sunscreen and monitor your sun exposure. Tar remains active on the skin for at least 24 hours, and you are at increased risk of sunburn during this period.

Studies show some of the chemicals in coal tar may cause cancer, but only in very high concentrations, such as in what is used in industrial paving. Anyone using tar regularly should follow a regular skin cancer checkup schedule. California requires OTC coal tar shampoos, lotions and creams that contain more than 0.5 percent coal tar to be labeled with cancer warnings. However, the FDA maintains that OTC products with coal tar concentrations between 0.5 percent and 5 percent are safe and effective for psoriasis, and there is no scientific evidence that the tar in OTC products is carcinogenic.

Other OTC treatment

There are other products which don’t contain salicylic acid or coal tar that are beneficial for treating psoriasis. Ingredients such as aloe vera, jojoba, zinc pyrithione, capsaicin and others, are frequently used to moisturize, soothe, remove scale or relieve itching.

The effectiveness of some of these products is not known. Be aware that “natural” ingredients can also cause side effects or allergic reactions. If irritation occurs, discontinue use.

Inverse psoriasis can be treated with Castederm, a liquid that is painted on the affected skin to help to dry moist lesions of psoriasis in folds. The use of powders may also help to dry the moist lesions associated with inverse psoriasis.

Moisturizers

Keeping the skin lubricated on a daily basis is an important part of psoriasis care because it reduces redness and itching and helps the skin heal. Dermatologists recommend heavy creams and ointments to lock water into the skin. Cooking oils and even shortening can be effective and economical substitutes for commercial moisturizers.

Bath solutions

Bath solutions can be beneficial in treating psoriasis. Adding oil, oilated oatmeal, Epsom salts or Dead Sea salts in a bath can help remove psoriasis scale and soothe itching. Soak for around 15 minutes and apply a moisturizer or oil to the skin immediately after getting out of the bath.

Scale lifters (keratolytics)

Scale lifters help loosen and remove scale allowing medications to reach the psoriasis lesions. There are scale-lifting products designed for the scalp, body or both. Note that scalp products are usually stronger and may be too harsh for other skin sites. OTC products that contain an active ingredient of salicylic acid, lactic acid, urea or phenol can be used as scale lifters.

Occlusion

Some topical medications or moisturizers can be occluded (or covered) to increase their effectiveness and the amount absorbed into the skin. With occlusion, the topical is applied to psoriasis lesions and the area is covered with plastic wrap, cellophane, waterproof dressing, cotton socks or a nylon suit. Always check with your doctor before occluding a steroid or other prescription medication.

Anti-itch

There are several ingredients that have been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treating itch. Some of these include calamine, hydrocortisone (a weak steroid), camphor, diphenhydramine hydrochloride (HCl), benzocaine and menthol. Beware that these ingredients may increase irritation and dryness.

A Healthy Diet Leads To Healthy Skin

lisitsa — Mon, 18 May 2009 10:48:26 +0000

What does your diet do for your skin’s health? If you are eating a well balanced diet, you may be impressed with the quality of your skin. The two interact with each other, just like every other organ in your body performs only as well as the nutrients it is provided. When it comes to eating healthy, there are several things to keep in mind in terms of what you should eat to help improve your skin quality. In fact, your skin is a direct reflection of the quality of foods you do consume.

Hydration Is Number One
Before looking any further, remember this. In order for your body to have healthy skin, each of the skin cells needs to provided with enough water. There is no easier way to do this than to just drink enough water each day. What you may not realize, too, is that water plays an extra role in the process of keeping skin looking young. It aid in flushing away all of the cells that have died. This helps to keep your outside layer of skin as healthy as it can possibly be.

Antioxidants Are Essential
If you are hoping for a way to help reduce the signs of aging, you can do so through antioxidants. Antioxidants are the very powerful element that is found in vegetables. They work to keep skin cells as healthy as possible. These are the cleaners of the body. They work to remove waste product from cells which in turn allows the skin to remain great looking. Antioxidants are a type of exfoliation for the skin that comes from the inside out. They also are great at removing build up in your arteries and blood vessels, which can prevent cancers and aid in the removal of dead cells.

To get these benefits, eat a diet that is rich in antioxidants. Choose vegetables and fruits that have deep colors. For example, deep greens are important. Choose a wide range of colors, too. Yellow squashes, orange melons, and blueberries are full of antioxidants that can provide this benefit to your skin.

When it comes to your diet, it does play a role in the health of your skin. There is never a time when you want to consider over the counter medications and anti aging products if you have not taken the time to improve the quality of your diet. Your diet has a direct affect on the quality of your skin.

Change your Diet, Change your Skin

lisitsa — Mon, 18 May 2009 10:46:44 +0000

You may have heard that your skin is an outward reflection of what is going on inside the body. It’s true. The skin is your body’s largest organ, and what you put into your body can determine how your skin reacts. Changing your diet can improve the appearance of your skin. However, it will not cure ALL of your skin care problems. That’s why it is still important to have a healthy diet AND a good skin care routine that matches your skin type. Together, you will get the best results. Here are a few small changes you can make to your diet to get YOUR best results.

Look for “ACE”. Vitamins A, C, and E are the most important for your skin. Vitamin A helps prevent the signs of aging, Vitamin C helps promote clear skin and repairs it, and Vitamin E helps protect your skin from the environment. Did you know that Mary Kay was the FIRST brand to add Vitamins A, C, and E to its mineral makeup line? Talk about ahead of the trend!

Limit your intake of caffeine and alcohol. These dehydrate your body and the deep layers of your skin. If you MUST have that cup of coffee in the morning or that glass of wine with dinner, make sure you follow it up with a glass of water to keep your body and your skin hydrated.

Add Vitamin A to your diet for age fighting benefits. Vitamin A is found in vegetables such as carrots, spinach, broccoli and sweet potatoes.

Add Vitamin B for exfoliation and firmness. You can find Vitamin B in vegetables, eggs and products with yeast.

Add Vitamin C for clear skin. You can find Vitamin C in many citrus fruits as well as in broccoli, berries, tomatoes, peppers and leafy greens.

Add Vitamin D for skin renewal. Vitamin D can be found in egg yolks, salmon, milk and other dairy products.

Add Vitamin E to maintain healthy skin tissue. You can find Vitamin E in Wheat, leafy greens, nuts and whole grains.

Add Zinc to promote healing and reduce inflammation. You can find Zinc in whole grain foods, nuts, dairy, fish and beans.

Add Biotin for healthy skin, hair and nails. Biotin can be found in Peanut Butter, whole grains and eggs.

Add healthy fats for supple skin, and soft, shiny hair. Use Olive Oil and Avocado and other Omega-3 fats such as Salmon and seeds into your diet to reduce LDL (bad cholesterol) as well as give you soft, shiny hair and nice, supple skin.

Below is a list of safe snacks to keep on hand. These are healthy, Skin Diet approved snacks.

#Almonds

#Low-fat yogurt

#String Cheese

#Protein Powder

#Protein Bars

#Hard Boiled Eggs

#Water with a bit of lemon juice or unsweetened cranberry extract.

Grooming and Hygiene

lisitsa — Sun, 17 May 2009 11:04:30 +0000

Sweating

You might think that you are only supposed to sweat when you are hot, but once you hit puberty, you also will sweat when you are nervous. Your sweat glands (which make sweat) become more active during the teen years, causing both more sweat and also some smell. You actually have 2 million to 4 million sweat glands all over the body. Most are on the soles of the feet, the palms, forehead, cheeks, and in the armpits. Don’t panic, though. Sweat and smell are normal parts of becoming an adult. Sweating also does an important job – it helps to cool your body down when you are hot.

How to help keep sweat from smelling badly:

Shower or take a bath every day.

Use a deodorant (covers smell) or an antiperspirant (decreases sweating), or a product that has both.

Talk to your doctor if these things do not work or you are worried.

Worried About Bad Breath?

Bad breath, also called halitosis, is caused by bacteria that grow in your mouth. The bacteria gather on the small food pieces left in your mouth, especially between your teeth. The bacteria release sulfur compounds, which is what makes your breath smell. Strong-smelling foods such as garlic and onions can cause bad breath, and so can smoking.

Tips for preventing bad breath:

Don’t smoke! It is good for your health in many ways to avoid smoking.

Brush your teeth (and tongue!) for at least two minutes twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste, especially after meals.

Floss every day.

Replace your toothbrush every three to four months.

Visit your dentist twice a year for cleanings and an exam to check for cavities.

Eat right. Avoid foods and drinks that can cause bad breath such as cabbage, garlic, raw onions and coffee. Don’t diet. Not eating enough or cutting out certain foods (such as carbohydrates) can cause bad breath.

Bad breath that won’t go away also can be a sign of a medical problem, such as a sinus infection or gum disease (gingivitis).

Be sure to talk to your dentist if your bad breath does not go away. It’s normal to be embarrassed, but it’s a very common problem and a dentist can help you try to fix it.

Your Skin

Your skin is just one more thing that changes when you go through puberty. Acne often starts in your early teen years because your body is making more oil glands, which is normal. A few different skin problems are a part of acne: whiteheads, blackheads and cystic acne.

Whiteheads are made when a hair follicle (root) is plugged with oil and skin cells.

If this plugged up stuff comes up to the surface of the skin and the air touches it, it turns black and becomes a blackhead. So, blackheads are not caused by dirt.

If a plugged follicle breaks, the area swells and becomes a red bump. If this happens close to the surface of the skin, the bump most often becomes a pimple. If it breaks deep inside in the skin, nodules or cysts can form, which can look like larger pimples. This is cystic acne.

Acne is common among teens, but not everyone will have the same troubles. It may be worse in boys because they have more oils in their skin. Also, it can run in the family. If your mother or father had bad acne, the same may happen for you. Some people also just have more sensitive skin.

How Is Acne Treated?

First, wash your face regularly. If the acne does not go away, there are over-the-counter products (you can buy these without a doctor’s order) available in different forms, such as gels, lotions, creams and soaps. Common ingredients used in these products to fight acne are benzoyl peroxide, resorcinol, salicylic acid and sulfur. If you have a bad skin reaction to any products you buy on your own, tell your doctor. Also, it can take time for these products to work. If they do not make your acne better after two months, ask your doctor for help. The doctor can give you stronger medicines, including antibiotics or other pills and creams that have either retinoids or adapalene in them. Retinoids can make you very sensitive to the sun, so avoid those rays or use a strong sunscreen to protect yourself. Another word of caution: the medicine isotretinoin (the product is called Accutane) can cause birth defects and miscarriages (losing a baby while pregnant) if taken when a woman is pregnant.

What Can Make Acne Worse?

Oil-based make-up, suntan oil, hair gels and sprays
Stress
Your period
Picking at your pimples
Scrubbing your skin too hard
Getting too much sun

What Doesn’t Cause Acne?

Dirt, fried foods or chocolate, and sexual activity do not cause acne. These are myths!

Hair Care

The same kind of oil that causes breakouts on your face also comes out of the pores on your scalp. In the right amount, this oil keeps your hair shiny and healthy looking. When there is too much oil, your hair can look greasy. If your hair is oily, wash it every day. You also may want to try shampoos that are made for oily hair. It also can help to stop using hair products that have oil in them.

On the other hand, if your hair is dry, you may want to shampoo less often and use a moisturizing shampoo. If you see white flakes in your hair or on your shoulders, you most likely have dandruff. There are special shampoos to treat dandruff that are sold near other hair products.

Do You Need to Douche?

No. The vagina actually cleans itself on the inside with natural fluids. The best way to clean the outside of your vagina is to wash with warm water and gentle, scent-free soap during a bath or shower. Products you might see on T.V. or at the drug store, such as feminine hygiene soaps, powders and sprays, are not needed. And they may even be harmful to you.

Douching is rinsing or cleaning out the vagina by squirting water or other fluids (solutions made with vinegar or baking soda that you can buy at the drug store) into the vagina. Women douche to rinse away blood after their periods and to generally feel cleaner. Many women douche, but doctors do not recommend it. Douching changes the balance of natural chemicals in your vagina and can make it easier for you to get dangerous infections.

If you have any of the following problems, tell your doctor right away:

Itching in and near your vagina
Burning or pain in your vagina
Pain when you go to the bathroom
Discharge, or fluid, from your vagina that is not normal, such as thick and white (like cottage cheese) or yellowish-green discharge that is foul smelling. Normal discharge changes throughout your menstrual cycle, but may normally look clear, cloudy white and/or yellowish.

If you are not sure if the discharge or fluid is normal, have your doctor check you out.

Tanning

You might think you look better with a tan, but the truth is, there is no such thing as a safe tan. When your skin becomes tan, it is really a sign that your skin cells have been hurt. The sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays are what damage your skin and these rays play a big role in the growth of skin cancer, the most common kind of cancer in the United States. Today, more young people than ever are getting skin cancer.

To protect yourself:

When possible, avoid outdoor activities during midday, when the sun’s rays are strongest. This usually means the hours between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Wear protective clothing, such as a wide-brimmed hat, long-sleeved shirt and long pants.

Wear wraparound sunglasses that provide 100 percent UV ray protection to protect your eyes.

Always wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen and lip screen with at least SPF 15. Follow the directions on the bottle to reapply and check the expiration date. Sunscreen without an expiration date will last no more than three years. Sunscreen will not last as long if it is stored in very hot or very cold temperatures.

Tanning Indoors

Trying to get that tan is dangerous both outside and inside. Indoor tanning salons use light bulbs in the “beds” that give off dangerous UV rays, the same rays found outside.

There are other indoor methods that do not use UV rays, including “spray tans” you can get at a salon and tanning lotions or gels that you can buy at a drugstore or department store. While there is no known risk for skin cancer with these products, you do have to be careful. Spray tans, lotions or gels use a color additive (what makes your skin look tan) called DHA that is approved – considered safe – for use on the outside of your body by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. If you use a sun-less tanning product on your own or go to a salon for a spray tan, make sure that your eyes and mouth are covered.

Skin Cancer Prevention and Early Detection

lisitsa — Thu, 07 May 2009 04:41:12 +0000

Skin cancer is the most common of all cancer types. More than 1 million skin cancers are diagnosed each year in the United States. That’s more than cancers of the prostate, breast, lung, colon, uterus, ovaries, and pancreas combined. The number of skin cancer cases has been on the rise for the past few decades.

The good news is that there is a lot you can do to protect yourself and your family from skin cancer, or to catch it early enough so that it can be treated effectively. Most skin cancers are caused by too much exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays. Much of this exposure comes from the sun, but some may come from manmade sources, such as tanning beds.

This document discusses how skin cancer develops and some simple steps you can take to help protect yourself from getting it. It also describes how to look for signs of skin cancer on your body. Finding possible skin cancers doesn’t require any x-rays or blood tests – just your eyes and a mirror. If skin cancer does develop, finding it early is the best way to ensure it can be treated effectively.

What is skin cancer?

Skin cancers are divided into 2 main types: keratinocyte cancers (basal and squamous cell skin cancers) and melanomas.

Basal and squamous cell skin cancers are the most common cancers of the skin. They develop from cells called keratinocytes, the most common cells in the skin.

Melanomas are cancers that develop from melanocytes, the cells that make the brown pigment that gives skin its color. Melanocytes can also form benign growths called moles.

There are several other types of skin cancers as well, but these are much less common.

It is important for doctors to tell these types of skin cancer apart, because they are treated differently. It is also important for you to know what melanomas and basal and squamous cell skin cancers look like. That way, you can find them at the earliest possible stage, when they are cured most easily.

Basal and squamous cell cancers (keratinocyte cancers)

Basal cell cancers and squamous cell cancers are the most common cancers of the skin. They develop from skin cells called keratinocytes. Both basal cell and squamous cell cancers are found mainly on parts of the body exposed to the sun, such as the head and neck, and their occurrence is related to the amount of sun exposure over a person’s lifetime.

These cancers (especially basal cell cancers) rarely spread elsewhere in the body and are less likely than melanomas to be fatal. Still, they are important to recognize. If left untreated, they can grow quite large and invade into nearby tissues, causing scarring, disfigurement, or even loss of function in some parts of the body.

Keratinocyte cancers are discussed in more detail in a separate American Cancer Society document, Skin Cancer: Basal and Squamous Cell.

Melanomas

Melanomas can occur anywhere on the body, but are more likely to develop in certain locations. The trunk is the most common site in men. In women, the legs are the most common site. Some experts think that melanomas develop more often in these spots because these areas are exposed to sun off and on and are more likely to get sunburned. Rarely, melanomas can also develop in other parts of the body, such as the eyes.

Melanoma occurs much less often than basal cell and squamous cell skin cancers, but it can be far more serious. Like basal cell and squamous cell cancers, melanoma is almost always curable in its early stages. But if left alone, melanoma is much more likely than basal or squamous cell cancer to spread to other parts of the body, where it can be very hard to treat.

Melanomas are discussed in more detail in a separate American Cancer Society document, Melanoma Skin Cancer.

What is ultraviolet (uv) radiation?

Ultraviolet (UV) rays are a form of invisible energy given off by the sun. Ultraviolet radiation is divided into 3 wavelength ranges:

UVA rays cause skin cells to age and can cause some damage to cells’ DNA (the substance in each cell that controls its growth, division, and function). UVA rays are mainly linked to long-term skin damage such as wrinkles, but are also thought to play a role in some skin cancers.

UVB rays are mainly responsible for direct damage to the DNA, and are the rays that cause sunburns. They are also thought to cause most skin cancers.

UVC rays don’t penetrate our atmosphere and therefore are not present in sunlight. They are not normally a risk factor for skin cancer.

Although UVA and UVB rays make up only a very small portion of the sun’s wavelengths, they are mainly responsible for the harmful effects of the sun on the skin. UVB radiation can damage the DNA of skin cells. If this damage affects the DNA of genes that control skin cell growth, skin cancer may be the result. Recent research has found that UVA also contributes to skin cancer formation. Scientists now believe that both UVA and UVB rays damage skin and cause skin cancer. There are no safe UV rays.

Skin cancers are one result of getting too much sun, but there are others as well. The short-term results of unprotected exposure to UV rays are sunburn and tanning, which are forms of skin damage. Long-term exposure causes prematurely aged skin, wrinkles, loss of skin elasticity, dark patches (lentigos, sometimes called “age spots” or “liver spots”), and pre-cancerous skin changes (such as dry, scaly, rough patches called actinic keratoses).

The sun’s UV rays also increase a person’s risk of cataracts and certain other eye problems and can suppress their immune system. Although dark-skinned people are generally less likely to get skin cancer than light-skinned people, they can still get cataracts and immune system suppression.

The UV Index

The amount of UV light reaching the ground in any given place depends on a number of factors, including the time of day, time of year, elevation, and cloud cover. To help people better understand the intensity of UV light in their area on a given day, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the National Weather Service have developed the UV Index. The UV Index number, on a scale from 1 to 11+, is a measure of the amount of UV radiation reaching the earth’s surface during an hour around noon. The higher the number, the greater the exposure to UV radiation.

The UV Index is given daily for regions throughout the country. Many newspaper and television weather forecasts now include the projected UV Index for the following day. As with any forecast, local changes in cloud cover and other factors may change the actual UV levels experienced, but the UV Index reminds the public to take precautions against too much exposure.

Are some people more prone to sun damage?

Everyone’s skin and eyes can be affected by the sun and other forms of UV rays. Although people with light skin are much more likely to have sun damage, darker-skinned people, including African Americans and Hispanic Americans, also can be affected.

People with darker skin tan more easily than others. But tanning is still a form of skin damage. Tanning occurs when UV radiation is absorbed by the skin, causing an increase in the activity and number of melanocytes, the cells that make the pigment melanin. Melanin helps to block out damaging rays up to a point, which is why darker-skinned people burn less easily.

People with lighter skin are more likely to burn. Sunburns are thought to increase your risk of skin cancer, especially melanoma. But UV exposure can raise skin cancer risk even without causing sunburn.

Aside from skin tone, other factors can also affect your risk of damage from UV light. You need to be especially careful in the sun if you:

have lots of moles, irregular moles, or large moles
have freckles and burn before tanning
have fair skin or blond, red, or light brown hair
were previously treated for skin cancer
have a family history of skin cancer, especially melanoma
live or vacation at high altitudes (UV radiation increases 4% to 5% for every 1,000 feet above sea level)
live or vacation in tropical or subtropical climates
work indoors all week and then get intense sun exposure on weekends
spend a lot of time outdoors
have certain autoimmune diseases, such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE, or “lupus”)
have had an organ transplant
take medicines that lower your immunity
take oral contraceptives (birth control pills)
take tetracycline, sulfa drugs, or certain other antibiotics
take naproxen sodium or certain other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
take phenothiazines (major tranquilizers and anti-nausea drugs)
take tricyclic antidepressants
take thiazide diuretics (medicines used for high blood pressure and some heart conditions)
take sulfonylureas (a form of oral anti-diabetic medication)

Ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist about the risk of any medicines you may be taking that could increase your sensitivity to sunlight.

How do I protect myself from UV rays?

It isn’t possible or practical to completely avoid sunlight, and it would be unwise to reduce your level of activity to avoid the outdoors. Time in sunlight also helps your body make vitamin D, which can be important for good health. But too much sunlight can be harmful. There are some steps you can take to limit your amount of exposure to UV rays.

Some people think about sun protection only when they spend a day at the lake, beach, or pool. But sun exposure adds up day after day, and it happens every time you are in the sun. “Slip! Slop! Slap! … and Wrap” is a catch phrase that reminds people of the 4 key methods they can use to protect themselves from UV radiation. Slip on a shirt, slop on sunscreen, slap on a hat, and wrap on sunglasses to protect the eyes and sensitive skin around them from ultraviolet light.

Following these practical steps can help protect you from the effects of the sun. These steps complement each other — they provide the best protection when used together.

Cover up

When you are out in the sun, wear clothing to protect as much skin as possible. Clothes provide different levels of protection, depending on many factors. Long-sleeved shirts, long pants, or long skirts cover the most skin and are the most protective. Dark colors generally provide more protection than light colors. A tightly woven fabric protects better than loosely woven clothing. Dry fabric is generally more protective than wet fabric.

If you can see light through a fabric, UV rays can get through too. Be aware that covering up doesn’t block out all UV rays. A typical light T-shirt worn in the summer usually protects you less than sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher.

The ideal sun-protective fabrics are lightweight, comfortable, and protect against exposure even when wet. A few companies in the United States now make sun-protective clothing. They tend to be more tightly woven, and some have special coatings to help absorb UV rays. Some sun-protective clothes have a label listing the ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) value — the level of protection the garment provides from the sun’s UV rays (on a scale from 15 to 50+). The higher the UPF, the higher the protection from UV rays.

Children’s swimsuits made from sun-protective fabric and designed to cover the child from the neck to the knees are popular in Australia. They are now available in some areas of the United States.

Newer products are now available to increase the UPF value of clothes you already own. Used like laundry detergents, they add a layer of UV protection to your clothes without changing the color or texture.

Use a sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher

A sunscreen is a product that you apply to your skin for some protection against the sun’s UV rays, although it does not provide total protection. Sunscreens are available in many forms — lotions, creams, ointments, gels, wipes, and lip balms, to name a few.

Some cosmetics, such as lipsticks and foundations, also are considered sunscreen products if they contain sunscreen. Some makeup contains sunscreen, but only the label can tell you. Makeup, including lipstick, without sunscreen does not provide sun protection. Check the labels to find out.

Read the labels: When selecting a sunscreen product, be sure to read the label before you buy. Experts recommend products with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15. The SPF number represents the level of protection against UVB rays provided by the sunscreen — a higher number means more protection.

It is important to remember that sunscreen does not give you total protection. When using an SPF 15 and applying it correctly, you get the equivalent of 1 minute of UVB rays for each 15 minutes you spend in the sun. So, 1 hour in the sun wearing SPF 15 sunscreen is the same as spending 4 minutes totally unprotected.

The SPF number indicates protection against UVB rays only. Sunscreen products labeled “broad-spectrum” protect against UVA and UVB radiation, but at this time there is no standard system for measuring protection from UVA rays. Products with an SPF of 15 or higher that also contain avobenzone (Parsol 1789), ecamsule, zinc oxide, or titanium dioxide are likely to be effective against UVB and most UVA rays.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which regulates sunscreens in the United States, has proposed a new set of rules for sunscreen labels. Part of this includes a rating system for UVA protection. Under the new system, sunscreens would be rated from 1 to 4 stars, with 1 star being a low level of UVA protection and 4 stars being the highest. It is not yet clear when this new rule might go into effect.

Check for an expiration date on the sunscreen container to be sure it is still effective. Most sunscreen products are no longer as effective after 2 to 3 years.

Some sunscreen products can irritate skin. Many products claim to be “hypoallergenic” or “dermatologist tested,” but the only way to know for sure whether a product will irritate your skin is to apply a small amount for 3 days. If your skin does not turn red or become tender and itchy, the product should be okay for you.

Be sure to apply the sunscreen properly. Always follow the label directions. Most recommend applying sunscreen generously to dry skin 20 to 30 minutes before going outside so your skin has time to absorb the chemicals. When applying it, pay close attention to your face, ears, hands, and arms, and generously coat the skin that is not covered by clothing. If you’re going to wear insect repellent or makeup, apply the sunscreen first. For high-glare situations, a higher SPF sunscreen or zinc oxide may be used on your nose and lips.

Be generous. About 1 ounce of sunscreen (a “palmful”) should be used to cover the arms, legs, neck, and face of the average adult. For best results, most sunscreens must be reapplied at least every 2 hours and even more often if you are swimming or sweating. Products labeled “waterproof” may provide protection for at least 80 minutes even when you are swimming or sweating. Products that are “water resistant” may provide protection for only 40 minutes. Remember that sunscreen usually rubs off when you towel yourself dry, so you will need to reapply.

Sunless tanning products, such as bronzers and extenders (described below), give skin a golden color. But unlike sunscreens, these products provide very little protection from UV damage.

Wear a hat

A hat with at least a 2- to 3-inch brim all around is ideal because it protects areas often exposed to the sun, such as the neck, ears, eyes, forehead, nose, and scalp. A shade cap (which looks like a baseball cap with about 7 inches of fabric draping down the sides and back) also is good. These are often sold in sports and outdoor supply stores.

A baseball cap can protect the front and top of the head but not the back of the neck or the ears, where skin cancers commonly develop. Straw hats are not recommended unless they are tightly woven.

Wear sunglasses that block UV rays

Research has shown that long hours in the sun without protecting your eyes increase your chances of developing eye disease. UV-blocking sunglasses can help protect your eyes from sun damage.

The ideal sunglasses do not have to be expensive, but they should block 99% to 100% of UVA and UVB radiation. Check the label to be sure they do. Some labels may say, “UV absorption up to 400 nm.” This is the same as 100% UV absorption. Also, labels that say “Meets ANSI UV Requirements” mean the glasses block at least 99% of UV rays. Those labeled “cosmetic” block about 70% of the UV rays. If there is no label, don’t assume the sunglasses provide any protection.

Darker glasses are not necessarily better because UV protection comes from an invisible chemical applied to the lenses, not from the color or darkness of the lenses. Look for an ANSI label.

Large-framed and wraparound sunglasses are more likely to protect your eyes from light coming in from different angles. Children need smaller versions of real, protective adult sunglasses — not toy sunglasses.

Ideally, all types of eyewear, including prescription glasses and contact lenses, should absorb the entire UV spectrum. Some contact lenses are now made to block most UV rays. But because they don’t cover the whole eye and surrounding areas, they are not recommended for eye protection use alone.

Limit direct sun exposure during midday

Another way to limit exposure to UV light is to avoid being outdoors in sunlight too long. UV rays are most intense during the middle of the day, usually between the hours of 10 am and 4 pm. If you are unsure about the sun’s intensity, take the shadow test: If your shadow is shorter than you, the sun’s rays are the strongest. Plan activities out of the sun during these times. If you must be outdoors, protect your skin.

UV rays reach the ground throughout the year, even on cloudy days. UV rays can also pass through water, so don’t think you’re safe if you’re in the water and feeling cool. Be especially careful on the beach and in the snow because sand and snow reflect sunlight, increasing the amount of UV radiation you receive.

Some UV rays can also pass through windows. Typical car, home, and office windows block most of the UVB rays but a smaller portion of UVA rays, so even if you don’t feel you’re getting burned your skin may still get some long-term damage. Tinted windows help block more UVA rays, although this depends on the type of tinting. UV radiation that comes through windows probably doesn’t pose a great risk to most people unless they spend extended periods of time close to a window that receives direct sunlight.

If you plan to be outdoors, you may want to check the UV Index for your area. The UV Index usually can be found in the local newspaper or on TV and radio news broadcasts. It is also available on the EPA’s web site at www.epa.gov/sunwise/uvindex.html.

Avoid tanning beds and sunlamps

Many people believe the UV rays of tanning beds are harmless. This is not true. Tanning lamps give out UVA and frequently UVB rays as well. Both UVA and UVB rays can cause serious long-term skin damage, and both contribute to skin cancer. Because of these dangers, many health experts advise people to avoid sunlamps and tanning beds.

Protect children from the sun

Children require special attention, since they tend to spend more time outdoors and can burn more easily. Parents and other caregivers should protect children from excess sun exposure by using the measures described above. Older children need to be cautioned about sun exposure as they become more independent. It is important, particularly in parts of the world where it is sunnier, to cover your children as fully as is reasonable. You should develop the habit of using sunscreen on exposed skin for yourself and your children whenever you go outdoors and may be exposed to large amounts of sunlight. If you or your child burns easily, be extra careful to cover up, limit exposure, and apply sunscreen.

Babies younger than 6 months should be kept out of direct sunlight and protected from the sun using hats and protective clothing.

What about tanning pills and other tanning products?

Several products claim to give a tan without UV radiation.

Tanning pills and accelerators

Tanning pills contain color additives similar to beta-carotene, the substance that gives carrots their orange color. The additives are distributed throughout the body, especially the skin, turning it an orange-like color. Although the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved some of these additives for coloring food, they are not approved for use in tanning agents. They may be harmful at the high levels that are consumed in tanning pills. The main ingredient in sunless tanning pills, canthaxanthin, can show up in your eyes as yellow crystals, which may cause injury and impaired vision. There have also been reports of liver and skin problems, as well as one reported case of a woman who died from aplastic anemia, which her doctor attributed to her use of tanning pills.

Tanning accelerators, such as lotions or pills that contain the amino acid tyrosine or its derivatives, are not effective and may be dangerous. Marketers promote these products as substances that stimulate the body’s own tanning process, although most evidence suggests they don’t work. The FDA considers them unapproved new drugs that have not been shown to be safe and effective.

No tanning pills have been approved by the FDA.

Bronzers and extenders

Two other sunless tanning products, bronzers and extenders, are considered cosmetics for external use and are not thought to be harmful when used properly.

Bronzers, made from color additives approved by the FDA for cosmetic use, stain the skin for a short time when applied and can be washed off with soap and water.

Extenders (also known as sunless tanners or self-tanners) are applied to the skin as lotions or creams, where they interact with protein on the surface of the skin to produce color. Like a tan, the color tends to wear off after a few days. The only FDA-approved color additive for extenders is dihydroxyacetone (DHA). Because application of these products can sometimes lead to uneven coloring, some tanning salons have begun to offer whole body sprays in tanning booths. A concern here is that DHA is approved for external use only and should not be sprayed in or on the mouth, eyes, or nose. People who choose to get a DHA spray should make sure to protect these areas.

Although they can give skin a darker color, these products do not protect you from the damaging effects of UV radiation.

Examining your skin

Get your skin checked by your doctor

As part of a routine cancer-related checkup, your doctor should check your skin carefully. He or she should be willing to discuss any concerns you might have about this exam.

How to check your own skin

It’s important to check your own skin, preferably once a month. A self-exam is best done in a well-lit room in front of a full-length mirror. You can use a hand-held mirror for areas that are hard to see. A spouse or close friend or family member may be able to help you with these exams, especially for those hard-to-see areas like the lower back or the back of your thighs.

The first time you inspect your skin, spend a fair amount of time carefully going over the entire surface of your skin. Learn the pattern of moles, blemishes, freckles, and other marks on your skin so that you’ll notice any changes next time. Any trouble spots should be seen by a doctor. Follow these step-by-step instructions to examine your skin:

Check your face, ears, neck, chest, and belly. Women will need to lift breasts to check the skin underneath. Check the underarm areas, both sides of your arms, the tops and bottoms of your hands, in between your fingers, and fingernail beds.

Check the front of your thighs, shins, tops of your feet, in between your toes, and toenail beds. Use the hand mirror to look at the bottoms of your feet, your calves, and the backs of your thighs, first checking one leg and then the other.

Use the hand mirror to check the buttocks, genital area, lower back, upper back, and the back of the neck. Or it may be easier to look at your back in the wall mirror using a hand mirror. Use a comb or hair dryer to part your hair so that you can check your scalp.

What should I look for?

Basal and squamous cell cancers

Basal cell cancers and squamous cell cancers are most often found in areas that get exposed to a lot of sun, such as the head, neck, and arms, but they can occur elsewhere. Look for new growths, spots, bumps, patches, or sores that don’t heal after 2 to 3 months.

Basal cell carcinomas often look like flat, firm, pale areas or small, raised, pink or red, translucent, shiny, waxy areas that may bleed after a minor injury. They may have one or more abnormal blood vessels, a lower area in their center, and/or blue, brown, or black areas. Large basal cell carcinomas may have oozing or crusted areas.

Squamous cell carcinomas may look like growing lumps, often with a rough, scaly, or crusted surface. They may also look like flat reddish patches in the skin that grow slowly.

Both of these types of skin cancer may develop as a flat area showing only slight changes from normal skin.

Actinic keratosis, also known as solar keratosis, is a skin condition that is sometimes pre-cancerous and is caused by too much sun exposure. Actinic keratoses are usually small (less than ¼ inch), rough spots that may be pink-red or flesh-colored. Usually they develop on the face, ears, back of the hands, and arms of middle-aged or older people with fair skin, although they can arise in younger people or on other sun-exposed areas of the skin. People with one actinic keratosis usually develop many more. Some can grow into squamous cell cancers, but others may stay the same or even go away on their own. Because they can turn cancerous, such areas should be looked at regularly by a doctor. Your doctor can then decide whether these areas should be removed.

Melanomas

The “ABCD rule” is an easy guide to the usual signs of melanoma. Be on the lookout and tell your doctor about any spots that match the following description:

A is for ASYMMETRY: One half of a mole or birthmark does not match the other.

B is for BORDER: The edges are irregular, ragged, notched, or blurred.

C is for COLOR: The color is not the same all over and may include shades of brown or black, or sometimes with patches of pink, red, white, or blue.

D is for DIAMETER: The spot is larger than 6 millimeters across (about ¼ inch — the size of a pencil eraser), although melanomas can sometimes be smaller than this.

Another very important sign of possible melanoma is a change in the size, shape, or color of a mole or the appearance of a new spot. Some melanomas do not fit the ABCD rule described above, so it is very important to tell your doctor about any changes in skin markings or new spots on your skin.

Other warning signs are:

a sore that does not heal
spread of pigment from the border of a spot to surrounding skin
redness or a new swelling beyond the border
change in sensation — itchiness, tenderness, or pain
change in the surface of a mole — scaliness, oozing, bleeding, or the appearance of a bump or nodule
a mole that looks very different from your other moles

What if I find something suspicious?

It’s important to know the difference between melanoma and a harmless mole. A normal mole is most often an evenly colored brown, tan, or black spot on the skin. It can be either flat or raised. It can be round or oval. Moles are usually less than 1/4 inch across, or about the width of a pencil eraser. Moles can be present at birth or they can appear later. Several moles can appear at the same time.

Once a mole has developed, it will usually stay the same size, shape, and color for many years. Moles may fade away in older people.

Most people have moles, and almost all moles are harmless. But it is important to recognize changes in a mole — such as its size, shape, or color — that suggest a melanoma may be developing.

Be sure to show your doctor any area that concerns you. A qualified doctor should be able to identify any suspicious areas you may have. If your doctor suspects you might have skin cancer, he or she will use one or more of the following methods to find out.

History and physical exam

Usually the first step is to take your medical history (ask questions about symptoms and risk factors). The doctor probably will ask your age, when the mark on the skin first appeared, and if it has changed in size or appearance. You may also be asked about past exposures to known causes of skin cancer and if you or anyone in your family has had skin cancer.

During your physical exam, your doctor will note the size, shape, color, and texture of the area in question, and if there is bleeding or scaling. The rest of your body may be checked for spots and moles that may be related to skin cancer.

The doctor may also feel the lymph nodes (bean-sized collections of immune system cells) under the skin near the suspicious area. Some skin cancers may spread to lymph nodes. Affected lymph nodes may become larger and firmer than usual.

If you are being seen by your primary doctor and skin cancer is suspected, you may be referred to a dermatologist (a doctor who specializes in skin diseases), who will look at the area more closely.

Along with a standard physical exam, many dermatologists use dermoscopy (also known as epiluminescence microscopy (ELM), surface microscopy, or dermatoscopy) to help determine if a spot might be a melanoma or other type of skin cancer. This involves the use of a dermatoscope, which is a special magnifying lens and light source held near the skin. Sometimes the doctor will use a thin layer of oil with this instrument. A digital or photographic image of the spot may be taken. The use of these tests by experienced dermatologists can improve accuracy in finding skin cancers early. It can also often reassure you that a lesion is benign (non-cancerous) without the need for a biopsy.

Skin biopsy

If the doctor thinks that an area of skin might be cancerous, he or she will take a sample of skin from that area to look at under a microscope. This is called a skin biopsy. Different methods can be used for a skin biopsy. The choice of method depends on the possible type of skin cancer, where it is on the body, and the size of the affected area. For more detailed information on biopsies, see our documents, Melanoma Skin Cancer and Skin Cancer: Basal and Squamous Cell.

If a spot is found to be cancerous or pre-cancerous, your doctor may recommend further tests or treatment. If the spot is small and localized, a more extensive biopsy or some type of surgery may be needed. For cancers that might be more extensive (especially melanomas), imaging tests might be done, and treatment might include chemotherapy or radiation. Again, for more detailed information, see our skin cancer documents.

What is acne?

lisitsa — Sun, 26 Apr 2009 06:13:13 +0000

Acne is a disorder of the skin caused by inflammation of the skin glands and hair follicles. The cause of acne is not completely understood, yet some factors, which may contribute, include heredity, hormones & bacteria.

What are the signs and symptoms?

Defined by severity, there are two types:

• Mild Acne – (“whiteheads” and “blackheads”) is caused by a plug of dead skin cells and oil in the canal that contains the hair, under the surface of the skin. Because the plugs are underneath the skin surface, scrubbing will not get rid of them. In fact, rubbing the skin or using harsh or abrasive soaps can irritate the skin and make the acne worse. Mild acne does not usually leave permanent marks on the skin.

• Moderate to Severe Acne – causes large bumps (nodules) and cysts, which may lead to permanent scarring of the skin. With early and consistent treatment, however, such scarring can often be prevented.

What is the treatment for acne?

The treatment varies and depends on the type of acne. Appropriate and regular skin care is the 1st step.

• Using the tips of your fingers (no washcloth or sponge, etc.) wash your face and other affected areas with a mild soap such as Purpose, Basis or Neutrogena, or with alcohol-free cleansing cream. Pat dry (DO NOT RUB) with a soft towel.

• Avoid moisturizers and cosmetics. If they must be used, choose an oil-free or water based “non-comedogenic” and “non-acneogenic” cosmetic.

Medications prescribed will depend on the type of acne you have. Topical medications and oral antibiotics may be used alone or together. A topical medication might be an antibiotic lotion or gel (Clindamycin, Erythromycin, Tetracycline, Doxycycline or Minocycline) or a liquid or cream containing Benzoyl Peroxide or Retin A.

How long will it take to heal? Can I make those pimples on my skin go away?

Most acne can be successfully controlled by medications. When the drugs are stopped however, the acne may return. Medications must often be continued for years. No medicine can make the pimples that are now evident on your skin disappear instantaneously. They will heal within a few weeks. Medications may decrease the number of new pimples that would have appeared in the next few months. It takes 6 to 8 weeks before any real improvement can be seen, and in many cases up to 3 months.

What makes acne worse?

• Squeezing pimples and digging fingernails can cause scarring and discoloration.
• Repeated touching or putting pressure on areas with acne. (i.e.: from eyeglasses, headbands, hats, and telephones)
• Excessive washing of the surface dirt and oil on acne-prone areas
• Oil and grease in moisturizers, face creams, make-up and hair products
• Certain medications for other problems
• Your clinician should be informed of all medications that you are taking
• Emotional stress
• Hormones – acne may worsen the week prior to menses
• Junk food does not affect acne.

Unwanted Hair

lisitsa — Thu, 16 Apr 2009 10:30:43 +0000

If you’re a woman it can be annoying and embarrassing to find you’re growing unwanted hair in places such as the abdomen, chest, and face. Not only is unwanted hair unsightly, it can sometimes be indicative of an underlying medical problem. What causes unwanted hair in women and what can be done about it?

Unwanted hair in women is the product of a group of hormones known as androgens. These are the hormones that give men their “manly” characteristics such as a deep voice, muscle mass, and, sometimes, hair on the chest. The best known androgen is testosterone. Women also produce a certain amount of androgens, although usually not as much as men. If too much androgen is produced by a woman or if her body is unusually sensitive to the effects of androgens, it can cause dark hair to grow on places it wouldn’t normally grow, a condition known as hirsutism.

Unwanted hair in women is not always a sign of a medical problem. Sometimes there’s a genetic basis for excessive body hair. Some medications can also cause hirsutism, including steroid based medications, as well as certain anti-seizure and anti-hypertensive medications. Your doctor should be able to tell you if the medications you’re on may be contributing to the problem.

More serious causes of unwanted hair in women can be related to certain types of tumors including brain tumors and tumors of the ovaries as well as an underactive thyroid gland. A condition known as Cushing’s syndrome, where the adrenal glands produce too much cortisol, can cause hirsutism. One of the most common medical reasons for hirsutism is polycystic ovary disease where the ovaries develop multiple cysts and produce excessive amounts of androgen. If you have polycystic ovary disease you usually have other symptoms such as irregular periods, infertility, excess abdominal fat, acne, and high blood pressure. All of these conditions can be diagnosed by your doctor with the help of blood tests.

If you have unwanted hair is there anything you can do about it? If there’s an underlying medical condition causing the problem, the first priority is to treat it. Once the excess androgen levels are reduced, the unwanted hair should decrease. In some cases, birth control pills may be used to control androgen levels although the pill can have side effects and shouldn’t be used in all situations. In other cases, weight loss can reduce androgen levels and help the problem. Otherwise, the best solution is to remove the excess hair using various hair removal methods such as plucking or waxing. More expensive options include electrolysis or laser hair removal.

The first priority is to make sure your unwanted hair isn’t due to a correctable medical condition. Don’t assume that your symptoms are a result of “age”. See a doctor knowledgeable about the problem of unwanted hair in women for a full physical and blood tests.