DermatologistsBlog.com - Skin Care Problems | Acne | Anti-Aging Products | Good Skin Care
Skin Care Products and Skin Care Problems Discussed by a Dermatologist
DermatologistsBlog.com - Skin Care Problems | Dermatology | Dermatologists

Some patients with Vitiligo and Melanoma may share Genes

A study in the New England Journal of Medicine

Source reference:
Jin Y, et al "Variant of TYR and autoimmunity susceptibility loci in generalized vitiligo" N Engl J Med 2010.

discloses that some patients with vitiligo and melanoma may share genes related to an enzyme important in melanin (pigment) formation. The enzyme is called Tyrosinase.
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Numbers of Non-Melanoma Skin Cancers still Rising

A study in the Archives of Dermatology indicates that the numbers of non-melanoma skin cancers are still rising in the United States. Non-melanoma skin cancers are basal cells and squamous cell skin cancers. These skin cancers are closely linked to light skin and excessive sun exposure, although other individuals may also be susceptible. << MORE >>

New Study compares Over Counter Wrinkle Cream with Prescription Retin A

A newly released study from the British Journal of Dermatology compared the effectiveness of an over the counter anti aging product or wrinkle cream with prescription Retin A.

The over the counter product contained:

 

  • niacinamide
  • the palmitoyl peptides palmitoyl- lysine-threonine and palmitoyl-lysine-threonine-threonine- lysine-serine (Pal-KT and Pal-KTTKS, respectively),7–12 and a 
  • retinyl ester commonly used in  cosmetic products (retinyl propionate)

There were approximately 98 women in each group.  The over the counter product was compared with 0.02% tretinoin (a prescription product).

The authors concluded that both products reduced fine wrinkles, with the prescription tretinoin group having more initial signs of dryness.
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What are the chief causes of skin care product allergy?

Allergic reactions to cosmetics and skin care products are a relatively frequent problem encountered by practicing dermatologists.

Determining the cause of skin care product allergic reactions can be frustrating for a number of reasons.

  • The allergic reaction may come and go, and wax and wane in intensity.
  • The allergic skin reaction may occur to products that have been used for a long time with no prior reaction.
  • The skin care products themselves are complex products containing numerous compounds.
More on allergic reactions to cosmetics tomorrow!

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What is Acai Berry?



Açaí is derived from a rapidly growing palm tree found in Latin America. The Açaí berries or fruit is used as a food staple and is cooked and served in a variety of ways.

In recent years, the
Açaí fruit has been harvested for a purported health benefits and treatment of a wide range of ailments. Açaí is reported to have anti-oxidant effects which makes it an appealing additive to skin care products.

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Does Scrubbing your Skin Help Acne?

Does scrubbing your skin help clear acne?

Scrubbing does not improve acne and in fact excessive harsh scrubbing can make acne worse by breaking already damaged pores and causing more inflammation.

Use a mild soap to cleanse your skin. << MORE >>

Tretinoin by any other name.....

Retin A was the first prescription form of tretinoin. Tretinoin remains the only prescription product available to treat fine lines and wrinkles.

Tretinoin has an interesting dermatologic history. Tretinoin is a synthetic form of Vitamin A. As a cream or gel, Retin A has been very effective at treating the primary lesions of acne, called comedones (blackheads or whiteheads). Retin A is also somewhat effective at reducing the inflammatory lesions or pimples.

Dermatologists and patients noticed that skin treated ...
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What's the difference between Herpes Zoster and Shingles? (Hint: Trick question!)

Herpes Zoster is the medical word for shingles. Herpes Zoster is the same virus that causes chickenpox (called varicella). Herpes zoster is in the same family, but not the same exact virus, as Herpes Simplex. Both Herpes Zoster and Herpes Simplex have the potential to cause a rash after exposure and then to become dormant or latent in the nerve root for many years. Both the zoster and simplex viruses can become reactivated later. Herpes Zoster reactivation is usually expressed  as a painful rash along one or two nerve roots called dermatomes. Prompt treatment of herpes zoster ... << MORE >>

It's Cold....Protect your hands!

When the weather is cold, the skin barrier is challenged. Wind, water, cold, detergents and frequent hand washing all contribute to dry cracked skin of the hands and fingernails. Here are a few tips for preventing painful, cracked dry skin:

1. Protection is easier than treatment!  Wear your gloves, and keep an extra set in your car or purse.
2. Use a mild soap to wash your hands. If necessary, bring in bottle of mild dispenser soap to work.
3. Use a moisturizer frequently...each time you wash if possible.
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Resveratrol as Anti_Aging_Product

Resveratrol is a compound found in nature, especially in grapes, cocoa and berries. Resveratrol acts as an anti-oxidant or 'free radical' absorber, by helping to soak up energy released by UV damage and other stresses. Resveratrol is concentrated in red wine as it is found mainly in the skin of grapes (white wine is fermented after the skin is removed). There is some research that suggests topical Resveratrol may help prevent UV induced photodamage. As with many anti-oxidant skin care products, more research is required before a recommendation can be made.
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