See Sun Spot, Run!

What are they?
 Solar lentigines, more commonly referred to as sunspots, age spots or liver spots, are lasting patches of discolored skin. These usually appear on the skin as brown or gray splotches and vary in size and shape. Sunspots tend to show up on parts of the body that are exposed to the sun most often, such as the face, hands, shoulders and chest. They are usually accompanied by other signs of sun damage, such as wrinkles and dry, thinning skin. Although sunspots usually develop on older people after years of sun exposure, young people can get them as well. With the rising trend of tanning beds, the early exposure to UV rays can sometimes cause skin to spot prematurely.

What causes them?

• Overexposure to UV rays from sunlight or tanning beds is the most common cause of sunspots. Fair-colored skin is more susceptible to sunspots than darker skin tones. UV rays cause the skin to increase melanin production, which is the pigment in hair, skin and eyes.
• Excessive melanin production can cause certain areas of the skin to become darker than the surrounding areas. Melanin is the tan color in the skin associated with sunbathing. The true purpose of melanin is to consume UV radiation and protect new cells in deeper layers of the skin, not to create an “attractive” appearance. Older skin is more prone to sunspots because it has a harder time clearing melanin from the system.
• Sun allergies may cause white spots to appear after sun exposure. These spots can be caused by sun, but may also develop due to exposure to other outdoor elements that agitate skin, such as fungus. Be mindful of these fungal infections that can cause these white spots, as they will likely spread to other parts of the body.
• Severe sunburns can also cause white spots to develop after the burn heals. The spots appear because the burn damaged the skin’s pigmentation.

 Should I be worried?

Except for the inherent cosmetic issue, sunspots are relatively harmless and are not a direct indication that you will get (or already have) skin cancer. However, having sunspots is an indication that the skin has been sufficiently damaged by the sun, which puts you at a greater risk for developing skin cancer. See your dermatologist yearly for a spot check to make sure your spots aren’t actually moles that can change into a cancerous lesion.

Treatments and remedies

• Applying aloe vera gel on affected areas twice daily can help heal sun-damaged skin. For best results, apply sooner rather than later.
• Medical creams containing corticosteroids may also help return the skin to its original state.
• Apply a slice of fresh lemon or lime directly onto the sunspots for 10-15 minutes daily. The acid helps in lightening the spots and removing dead skin cells. Results are usually seen after daily use for two or more weeks.
• Squeeze a used green tea bag onto a cotton ball and rub it over the spots. The tea contains antioxidants that can help skin repair itself.
• Break open a vitamin E capsule and apply the gel directly to the sunspots. The same vitamin E properties that can help fade scars will also help fade sunspots.
• Professional options are also available, such as laser resurfacing, chemical peels and cryotherapy.

Prevention

Protect your skin from the sun and UV damage by avoiding indoor tanning, staying out of direct sunlight as much as possible and wearing a hat or light-colored clothing outdoors.

If you have to be in the sun, use a broad-spectrum SPF 30 sunscreen.

Have any more questions? Leave them in the comments below or make an appointment  with Advanced Dermatology.

A Chapped Lips Conundrum

Chapped lips can be irritating. They are very common in the wintertime but also can occur during the spring or summer. So the question is, how can you refrain from experiencing the inconvenience of chapped or cracked lips?

• Drink plenty of water. Being dehydrated can cause your lips to become chapped. 
• Refrain from licking your lips. Saliva evaporates quickly and once it dries, it can leave your lips drier than before. While licking your lips may seem like a natural reaction, avoid the urge to keep from worsening the problem.
• Use a soft toothbrush and softly buff your lips.
• Take vitamin B pills. Vitamin B deficiency can cause chapped lips.
• Prepare yourself!  Make sure to use lip balm before going outside. This is particularly true in dry, cold weather.
• Avoid scented lip balms or those that taste good, as those added ingredients can actually burn or further irritate dry, cracked lips.
• It is good to put on lip balm before you are about to go into cold weather. Make sure to re-apply when you’re spending time outside in those conditions.

There’s no denying that a good lip balm is the way to go to prevent and treat chapped lips, but it is also important to know what you’re putting on your skin. Some ingredients included in lip balm products may actually cause lips to chap or require frequent re-application. These ingredients include camphor, phenol and menthol. Additionally, alcohol (labeled as “OL” on lip balm) will dry quickly and leave you reapplying often. Make sure you’re reading the labels, and if all else fails, try good old-fashioned petroleum jelly (also known as Vaseline!).

Have any questions not addressed in this post? Leave them in the comments below and I’ll try to answer them there. 

The Scar Solution

Scars are like tattoos but with better stories. Have you ever heard that quote? It’s so true. Scars are the result of a change to the skin as it heals from a wound. Scars can result from just about any type of wound, from abrasions to incisions. (For more info on the types of wounds, read my blog post here.) This blog post will give you some basic info on scars, as well as how to prevent them or make them less noticeable.

What is a scar?

Scar tissue is comprised of collagen, which is the same tissue content as normal skin. What makes it look different than the skin around it is that collagen fibers in scar tissue will form a different pattern. Where normal collagen has a woven pattern, scar tissue exhibits a “cross-stitch” type of pattern.

Scar tissue is weaker than normal skin tissue. It is more susceptible to damage caused by the sun’s ultraviolet rays, and sweat glands and hair follicles do not grow back after the wound heals.

Are there different types of scars?

Yes. While all scars are composed of the same type of tissue as the once-healthy skin they occupy, not all scars are created equal.

• Hypertrophic scars are a result of the body producing too much collagen. They present as red bumps on the skin on the scarred area. They typically take shape a month or two after the wound heals.
• Keloids are a type of hypertrophic scar. They also present as red bumps on the skin, but can grow beyond the original wound site and do not go away over time. Keloids are most common in people with darker skin. While they are often the result of a wound, some people do form them spontaneously. It is important to note that keloids are not dangerous, although they are a cosmetic issue for some people.
• Atrophic scars make the skin appear sunken. They are generally the result of losing fat or muscle in one area, causing the skin to sink a little. Acne scarring or surgical scars are generally atrophic.
• Stretch marks are a result of the skin stretching rapidly and for prolonged periods of time. Often caused by quick weight gain or loss, growth spurts or pregnancy, stretch marks are also more of a cosmetic issue than a medical concern. For more information on preventing stretch marks, read my blog post here. 

Can I prevent scars?

Not really. Not all wounds will form scars. For example, a simple knee scrape or a scratch will generally not cause enough damage to form scar tissue. A deeper wound will form scar tissue. A general rule of thumb is that the longer it takes your skin to heal, the more likely you are to develop a scar. If you want to prevent a scar, prevent any injury or wound on your skin.

Can I treat a scar or make it less noticeable?

Absolutely. There are a variety of treatments available for scars, some more effective than others. It’s important to note that no treatment will result in complete restoration of your healthy skin, but there are several options for reducing the scar’s appearance. Some options include:

• Over-the-counter treatments – Creams like Mederma often advertise their ability to reduce the appearance of scars. To be honest, it isn’t going to speed up the process a whole lot, if at all. Most scars will become less noticeable over time anyway, particularly things like stretch marks. If you don’t want to break out the big guns and visit a dermatologist, you should consider waiting before trying anything from the drugstore.
• Collagen induction therapy – Often referred to as “skin needling,” this procedure is performed by a doctor and is meant to introduce normal collagen into the scarred area.
• Exfoliation, chemical peels or dermabrasion – Removing the scarred layer of skin can often result in a lighter appearance for a scar. Traditional at-home exfoliation is probably not enough, depending on the depth and size of the scar. I recommend visiting a trusted dermatologist to discuss whether a chemical peel or dermabrasion procedure can help you.
• Fillers – Like collagen induction, fillers will introduce normal collagen into an atrophic scar, helping raise them to the level of surrounding healthy skin. You can read my post on fillers here.  It’s important to note that fillers are not permanent, so if this is your chosen solution you may need to have the procedure done every few months to maintain your desired results.
• Laser treatments – Different types of laser treatments are available for all types of scars. You’ll need to meet with a dermatologist to understand your options and which treatment, if any, is right for your scars. Like chemical peels or dermabrasion, most lasers work by burning or removing the most scarred layer of skin to reduce the appearance of a scar.

Have any more questions about scarring? Leave them in the comments and I’ll try to help if I can. Additionally, if you’d like to make an appointment at Advanced Dermatology to discuss your treatment options, click here.

The Skin Type Identification

If you’ve ever seen a makeup commercial, visited a dermatologist or read anything about skin care, you’ve probably heard the term “skin type.” There are five skin types generally accepted by the dermatology community, and they include dry, normal, combination, oily or sensitive.

While skin type is often determined by genetics, it can change over time. Recognizing your skin type is crucial to determining what skin care routine and products will work for you. Below are some tips for identifying your skin type and how to care for it.

Dry Skin

While dry skin has its downsides, it’s not all bad. Those of you with this skin type will experience smaller, less noticeable pores and fewer blemishes or acne problems.

Signs of dry skin include:

• Small, nearly invisible pores
• A dull complexion
• Redness or peeling, especially after being outdoors
• Fine lines
• Lack of elasticity

 The symptoms of dry skin can be exacerbated by:

• Weather (particularly at high altitudes or in very cold, dry climates)
• UV radiation from tanning outdoors or in a tanning bed
• Long, hot baths or showers
• Some soaps or cosmetics
• Some medicines

 To manage your dry skin:

• Moisturize daily. People with dry skin are more likely to see signs of aging like wrinkles at an earlier age. Choose face lotions and body lotions offering “deep moisture” and watch for ingredients that will help your skin retain the moisture, like:
• Glycerin
• Hyaluronic acid
• Mineral oil
• Petroleum jelly
• Lanolin
• Ceramides
• Dimethicone
• Take shorter showers, and don’t use steaming hot water if you can avoid it. Also, avoid multiple showers in a single day, as hot water can strip oils from the skin.
• Avoid scented soaps or cleansers. Choose mild or unscented products instead.
• Eat foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids. You can check out our blog post on good foods for skin health here.

 Normal Skin

If you’ve got normal skin, consider yourself lucky! Normal skin is most prevalent in younger people. Signs of normal skin include:

• Few, if any, imperfections
• Few, if any, sensitivities
• Small pores
• A clear complexion with a natural “glow”

 For you lucky people with normal skin, you won’t have to follow any sort of strict regimen to keep it relatively healthy. However, it’s important to remember my basic skin care recommendations:

• Moisturize daily
• Wear sunscreen with at least 30 SPF daily
• Review our “Through the Ages” posts to make sure you’re caring for your skin differently as you age

 Oily Skin

If you’ve got oily skin, you may have noticed that it gets shiny throughout the day or that your clogged pores often produce blemishes. But just as with dry skin, it’s not all bad! People with oily skin tend to retain moisture well, which is great for preventing visible signs of aging later.

Signs of oily skin include:

• A shiny complexion
• Blackheads, pimples or other blemishes resulting from clogged pores
• Larger, more visible pores

 Oily skin is often a result of genetics, but can be exacerbated by stress, humidity, using the wrong skin products or hormonal imbalances from life events like puberty.

To care for your oily skin, remember to:

• Use oil-free cleansers and moisturizers
• Don’t pop your pimples! As stated in our blog post on acne myths, it doesn’t make them go away. “Popping” a pimple can actually push the infection back into the skin and bring that thing back with a vengeance.
• Wash your face regularly, especially after working out or sweating heavily. Don’t wash more than twice per day or you risk your skin creating more oil to replace what has been washed away.

 Combination Skin

This is exactly what it sounds like. Some people experience signs of dry skin, oily skin and normal skin all at once. Usually, the various types are spread throughout the face and body, with oily skin taking over traditionally acne-prone areas like the “T-Zone” (the area that includes your forehead, nose and chin) and dry skin taking over areas that get less attention, like the cheeks.

To recognize or manage your combination skin, identify whether you experience symptoms associated with dry, oily or normal skin as noted above. It’s probably better to use oil-free moisturizers and unscented soaps as these will be beneficial for all skin types.

Sensitive Skin

People with sensitive skin often experience reactions to a variety of skin care products or outside other outside factors. The most important thing to remember is to understand what causes the reaction and adjust your routine accordingly.

Signs of sensitive skin include:

• Redness or rashes, particularly related to specific products or ingredients
• Itching
• Burning
• Dryness
• Peeling
• Varied reactions depending on the product

 If you have sensitive skin, it’s best to discuss your routine with a dermatologist. Sometimes, medicated soaps or other products may be the best route for you.

Have any questions about your skin type, routine or products? Leave the in the comments or make an appointment with Advanced Dermatology!

The Glowing Skin Effect

Do you find yourself coveting the airbrushed skin of models on TV, billboards or magazine covers? We all yearn for radiant skin, but can you get movie star skin naturally? How do you avoid crossing the line of natural shine to having greasy skin? Beauty may only be skin deep, but the importance of skin health goes much deeper. Here’s the skinny on how to keep your skin young and healthy while maintaining a sensible amount of its protective moisture. 

Do

• Protect skin from sun damage by using SPF 30 sunscreen every day and avoiding prolonged exposure.  
• Wash your face in the morning and at night.
• Moisturize twice daily. Be sure to change your moisturizer twice a year to adapt to seasonal changes. In the fall and winter, you should use a heavier moisturizer due to the dry air; while in spring and summer, use a lighter moisturizer with SPF for sun protection.
• Exercise regularly. Cardio can be especially helpful as it stimulates blood flow.
• Drink six to eight glasses of water each day to help flush out toxins from your body.
• Maintain a healthy diet. Fruits will help hydrate and rejuvenate your skin, and foods rich in vitamin C will help collagen production to keep your skin looking youthful and smooth. Some common foods containing vitamin C include oranges, guava, kiwi fruit, leafy greens and red peppers. For more information on the best foods for your skin health, read my blog post here. 
• Exfoliate weekly to buff out imperfections and remove dead skin cells, revealing a stunning new layer of skin. Use a loofah pad or facial/body scrub (sugar, salt, beads or crystals) gently against your skin in a circular motion. (Hint: This blog post will help you with at-home exfoliation.)
• Take a multivitamin daily that contains vitamins A, D and C.
• Switch from using pressed powder to loose powder, as pressed powders contain oil as an ingredient.
• Be patient. Most people start seeing their desired results in about two to six weeks.

Don’t

• Bathe in very hot water or take long, hot baths – Bathing in hot water strips skin of its moisture and washes away protective oils.
• Rub the wrong way – Rubbing your skin hard or aggressively can result in peeling, breaking small blood vessels and stretching the skin.
• Touch your face – Touching thousands of surfaces daily makes your hands magnets for dirt, germs and oils. While most of us are guilty of touching our faces throughout the day, doing this can spread these unwanted germs and oils on your skin, resulting in clogged pores.
• Smoke – This nasty habit can cause wrinkles, unwanted skin color and texture, and potentially skin cancer.

What to Use

• Mild, non-detergent cleansers – These include gels, foams or cloths. Using heavy-duty cleansers can dry out your skin and sometimes worsen a prior condition.
• Fragrance-free products –Fragrances cause most common skin-related allergic reactions.
• pH-balanced products – Make sure any acid-laced products are pH-balanced, meaning the pH is in sync with your skin. This will help remove makeup without robbing your skin of natural oils.
• Multi-tasking moisturizers – Look for moisturizers that will hydrate and protect.
• Toner – There are tons of mixed signals floating around about skin toners, and rightfully so. Toner is used to clean deep into the pores of your skin, but depending on your skin type, it may further dry out your skin. If you have found an appropriate toner for your skin type, be sure to apply a moisturizer afterward. Your dermatologist can help determine if toner is right for your skin and the best toner for your skin type.

Have more questions? Leave them in the comments below, and I’ll try to help you out! If you need an appointment with Advanced Dermatology, click here.