Melasma, Chloasma in face

What is Melasma/Chloasma?

A patchy brown or dark brown skin discoloration that usually occurs on face and may result from hormonal changes, as in pregnancy and during the administration of estrogen containing oral contraceptives.

It is generallly found on sun-exposed areas of the face. Melasma often fades over several months after stopping oral contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy(HRT) or after delivering a child. It may return with additional pregnancies or use of these medications. The patches gradually fade over many months. In some people, the discoloration never entirely disappears. However, this condition develops spontaneously in some women who are neither pregnant, taking oral contraceptives, nor HRT medications.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors for Melasma/Chloasma

§ Melasma is a very common skin disorder. Though it can affect anyone, young women with brownish skin tones are at greatest risk. Chloasma is especially common in women aged 20-40. It is more common in dark skins than in fair skins.

§ Melasma is often associated with the female hormones estrogen and progesterone. It is especially common in pregnant women, women who are taking oral contraceptives ("the pill"), and women taking hormone replacement therapy during menopause.

§ Sun exposure is also a strong risk factor for melasma. It is particularly common in tropical climates.

§ Melasma develops due to a combination of genetic, hormonal and sun related factors

§ Melasma has been referred to as the mask of pregnancy because it often develops during pregnancy. Because of melasma’s relation to pregnancy and oral contraceptives, it is thought that estrogen contributes to its development in predisposed persons.

§ Estrogen is not essential to the development of melasma, however, as men may also be affected.

§ A factor that does seem to be essential to the development of melasma is sunlight.

§ Both ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) are believed to contribute to the formation of melasma in predisposed persons.

§ It may develop in association with menopause, hormonal imbalance and ovarian disorders.

§ Melasma may also be triggered by a medication called Dilantin (phenytoin).

§ It is thought that female sex hormones causes melanocytes or the pigment-producing cells to produce and deposit excess pigments.

§ Chloasma usually affects women but occasionally is seen in young men who use after-shave lotions, scented soaps, and other toiletries.

§ Chloasma is more pronounced during the summer months as a result of sun exposure. It usually fades a few months after delivery. Repeated pregnancies, however, can intensify the pigmentation.

§ Chloasma also occurs as a side-effect of taking contraceptive pills and injected depot contraceptive preparations. It may also be noticed in apparently healthy, normal, non-pregnant women where it is presumed to be due to some mild and harmless hormonal imbalance.

§ Sun exposure, following the use of deodorant soaps, scented toiletries, and various cosmetics can also produce this mottled pigmentation. This is called a phototoxic reaction and is due to ultraviolet radiation being absorbed by the chemical substance on the skin.

§ Deficiency of Folic Acid during pregnancy can also lead to development of Melasma.

Melasma during pregnancy is relatively common. Sometimes it is called the "mask of pregnancy." The dark patches typically last until the pregnancy ends. Despite the strong connection to hormones, no one knows exactly what causes the skin discoloration.

Other factors that make it more likely that a person will get melasma include using medications that make you sensitive to the sun (photosensitizing). These can include some cosmetics and medicines used to treat ovarian or thyroid problems. If you are already susceptible to melasma, exposure to the sun increases your risk. For example, women who are pregnant or who take a hormone medication and avoid the sun are less likely to develop melasma than are those who spend a lot of time in the sun.

Symptom Pictore of Chloasma / Melasma: 

§ Tan, dark brown patches

§ Irregular in shape

§ These patches usually develop on the upper cheek, upper lip and forehead.

Picture of Chloasms, Melasma

Pigmentation seen on cheeks and nose.

§ The dark patches often appear on both sides of the face in a nearly identical pattern. The darker-colored patches of skin can be any shade, from tan to deep brown.

§ Rarely, these dark patches may appear on other sun-exposed areas of the body.

§ The dark patches often appear on both sides of the face in a nearly identical pattern.

§ The darker-colored patches of skin can be any shade, from tan to deep brown.

§ Rarely, these dark patches may appear on other sun-exposed areas of the body.

Melasma doesn't cause any other symptoms besides skin discoloration but may be of great cosmetic concern.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is simply done by skin examination.

Doctor may use a special lamp [Wood’s lamp] that gives off ultraviolet light; it allows the doctor to see patterns and depth of skin discoloration more clearly.

Medical history will help to determine any factors that may have caused the disorder

Conventional Treatment

§ Creams containing tretinoin, kojic acid, and azelaic acid have been shown to improve the appearance of melasma. Occasionally, doctor may recommend chemical peels or topical steroid creams.

§ In severe cases, laser treatments can be used to remove the dark pigment.

HOMEOPATHY TREATMENT & HOMEOPATHIC REMEDIES

Homeopathy treats the person as a whole. It means that homeopathic treatment focuses on the patient as a person, as well as his pathological condition. The homeopathic medicines are selected after a full individualizing examination and case-analysis, which includes the medical history of the patient, physical and mental constitution etc. A miasmatic tendency (predisposition/suceptability) is also often taken into account for the treatment of chronic conditions. The medicines given below indicate the therapeutic affinity but this is not a complete and definite guide to the treatment of this condition. None of these medicines should be taken without professional advice.

Reportorial rubrics:

[Kent] skin, discoloration, brown, liver spot

[Kent] skin, discoloration, brown, chloasma

[Murphy] skin, chloasma

[Boericke] skin, chloasma, liver spots, moth patches

[Boenninghausen’s] Skin, Spots, Liver (brown, liver-colored, chloasma)

Homeopathy Therapeutics

Sulphur, Lycopodium clavatum, Sepia offincinalis, Thuja occidentalis, Argenticum nitricum, Cadmium sulphuratum, Copaiva offincinalis, Guarana, Caulophyllum, Thalictroides, Plumbum metallicum, Curare.

Homeopathic Remedies:

Sulphur

Skin affection after local medication. Old looking. Spotted face. Skin dry, rough, wrinkled, scaly; Itching, violently at night. Scrofulous diathesis. Liver spots. Unbreakable itching, especially from warmth. Dirty, filthy people, prone to skin affection. 

Lycopodium Clavatum

Grayish-yellow discoloration of the face, with blue circles around the eyes. Brown spot on face and nose. Carbo nitrogenoid constitution. Craves everything warm.

Sepia Offincinalis

Chloasma; yellow spots [moth spots] the on the face, and a yellow saddle across the upper part of cheeks and nose. Suited to patient with having dark hair, rigid fibre. Ailments during pregnancy.

Thuja Occidentalis

Dry skin with brown spot. Hydrogenoid constitution. skin looks dirty. Face, pale, waxy, shiny; dark under eyes; spiderlets on.

Argenticum Nitricum

Face looks sunken, old, pale and bluish. Brown liver spot; irregular blotches. Skin is brown, tense and hard. A prematurely aged look. Irregular blotchesCadmium sulphuratum

Chloasma, yellowish stains on nose and cheeks; worse from exposure to sun and wind.

Copaiva Offincinalis

Brown spot; circumscribed, lenticular patches with itching. Mottled appearance.

Guarana

Chloasma on temples and arms. intellectual excitement; uncontrollable sleepiness.

Caulophyllum Thalictroides

Discoloration of skin in women with menstrual and uterine disorders.

Plumbum metallicum

Yellow, corpse like dark brown liver spots; cheeks sunken. Skin of face is greasy, shiny. Face pale cachetic.

Curare

Red face. Dirty looking skin. Melasma.

Prevention of Chloasma, Melasma.

Avoiding the sun and using sunscreen are key to preventing melasma.

Avoid irritating the facial skin- No strong soaps or abrasive cleaners - use only a mild soap or cleanser for washing.

Increase intake of foods high in folic acid, dark green leafy vegetables, wheat germ, asparagus, broccoli, potatoes, whole grains, fruits and vegetables.

Discoloration of Skin on Face

Discoloration of skin on the face, though unsightly, may require medical attention to get to its root cause. Through this article we will discuss the causes of skin discoloration on face and other parts of the body.

Skin problems are quite common among individuals of all age groups. Normal skin has an even tone and is smooth to touch. But in the presence of skin disorders, the skin may appear to be patchy, dry and the skin tone may also be uneven. Over exposure to the sun, pollutants, make up and leading an unhealthy lifestyle are all contributing factors of discoloration of skin on the face and other parts of the body. In some cases, skin discoloration can be signs of some underlying health condition. Whatever be the reason, this skin condition can be quite annoying and people tend to try out various methods to get rid of it and restore the normal tone of the skin.

Causes of Facial Skin Discoloration

Skin discoloration on face can be categorized as skin darkening and skin lightening. There can be many reasons for the appearance of discoloration of skin on the face. Some of them may be due to superficial factors, like exposure to the sun or pollution. This condition may also appear due to some medical reasons.

One of the main causes of skin darkening is the over secretion of melanin from the cells. This can appear as dark patches on the skin, specifically on the forehead and cheeks. This condition is also known as hyperpigmentation.

White discoloration of the facial skin may be due to a skin condition called vitiligo. This condition is characterized by white colored spots on the face, which may spread till the neck and other parts of the body. Though this is not harmful, it can be quite distressing.

Red discoloration on face may be due to the appearance of skin rash as a sign of allergic reactions. Eczema, psoriasis and other skin conditions can lead to reddish coloration on the face.

Another causative factor is melasma. This skin condition is mostly observed in pregnant women and women who are on birth control pills, as a result of hormonal changes in the body. However this condition is also seen in other individuals.

Other causes can be due to age spots, deficiency of iron and other essential nutrients, damage to the skin due to acne, burns, suntan, and blisters etc.

Remedies for Discoloration of Skin on Face

Facial skin discoloration can be quite unsightly since it mars the appearance of a person. The good news is that this condition is completely curable. You just need to follow a proper skin care regimen, teamed with a nutritious diet, to help reduce these signs.

Make a paste of dried orange peel powder, milk cream, honey and a few drops of lemon juice. Apply this paste on the face and neck and leave it on for about 15 minutes before washing it off.

Prepare a fruit mask out of mashed apricot, papaya and cucumbers. This fruit pulp, if applied, can reduce the signs of discoloration and make the skin more radiant.

Potato juice is also quite effective when it comes to reduce pigmentation and hide blemishes. This is because potato juice has bleaching properties, which treats discoloration.

Another promising remedy to get rid of this skin problem is almonds. Take 6 to 8 almonds and soak them overnight in water. Peel the skin and grind them into a paste. Mix a tablespoon of honey and apply this pack on the face. wash it off with lukewarm water. Repeating this twice a day for at least a week yields visible results.

Exfoliation is an excellent method to remove dead cells from the skin's surface. For this you can scrub your face with ground almonds in a circular motion for about 10 minutes. You can also undergo microdermabrasion, which is the clinical method to exfoliate your face.

There are also several treatment options that can reduce these signs. But you must undergo these treatments only after consulting a dermatologist.

And finally, including fruits and vegetables that are rich sources of Vitamin E and other nutrients required by the skin is a natural way to restore that lost glow. Drinking plenty of water and fluids will flush the toxins from the body and keep the skin hydrated, supple and blemish-free.

Facial skin discoloration may be a reason of cosmetic concern, but it is also necessary to determine its underlying cause. Since this condition may also be an inherent sign of some health disorder, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist or a health care provider.

WAYS TO TIGHTEN YOUR SKIN WITHOUT FACE-LIFTS OR BOTOX

Read if: you are looking for Botox alternatives when it comes to tighten skin

The discovery of wrinkles and sagging skin is quite possibly the first, and greatest, horror you will experience in the aging process. This calamity occurs in part because, as we age, the collagen and elastic fibers in the skin cells which helps keep the skin firm and smooth are being produced in lesser quantities. Unfortunately, cosmetic surgeries are fraught with danger. And Botox, one of the most popular anti-aging treatments, wherein facial muscles are, in essence paralyzed in order to prevent the creation of wrinkles, often brings about unnatural-looking effects, including the appearance of a seemingly “frozen” face. Thankfully, it is still possible to revers some of the effects of aging without undergoing expensive, risky, and painful procedures.

Safe, Non-Invasive Procedures Available at Your Doctor’s Office
Beyond the inherent dangers and risks associated with traditional, skin-tightening surgeries. Patients also have to endure the requisite recovery downtime that keeps them away from their lives and jobs. However, there are now a number of non-invasive procedures available at your dermatologist’s office, which safely and noticeably combat pesky, sagging skin. And these new procedures are becoming quite popular, as each is relatively painless, reasonably cost-effective, and can last well over 12 months.

Radio-frequency Procedures
Radiofrequency technology uses a high-frequency pulse to warm the area below the surface of the skin. A small injury is then created in this heated area, and the resultant healing process stimulates the natural creation of new collagen that will be used to repair the troubled area. This in turn causes the collagen molecules to contract, making the skin firm and tight.

Laser Skin-Tightening Treatments
Dermatologists also use infrared light sources to tighten aging skin. These laser skin-tightening treatments use heat to penetrate into the middle layer of skin and stimulate the production of collagen. Infrared light works by resurfacing the tissue, helping to stimulate the body’s own natural growth of elastin and collagen. This warm temperature also forces the collagen fibers to shrink back, causing the skin to tighten upon the new skin layers.

Other Options Available from Your Dermatologist
Dermal fillers such as collagen, hyaluronic acid, and synthetic fillers can also be injected directly into the various wrinkles and creases of the skin in order to decrease notice ability, thereby making your face appear tighter, fuller, and more youthful. Another interesting, yet simple and non-invasive skin-tightening procedure uses micro currents to mimic those that occur naturally in the body, triggering the chemical reactions that encourage the production of collagen and elastin. These micro currents are also able to reeducate the facial muscles and encourage these muscles to lift back into their natural shape.

At-Home, Natural Remedies for Skin Tightening
Perhaps taking the natural route is a more appealing solution to your skin-sagging woes. Luckily, partaking in some rather simple, inexpensive lifestyle changes are the keys to naturally tighter skin.

Exercise is the centerpiece to affecting these changes, as exercise builds muscle, and muscle can prevent skin from becoming loose. Building muscle will also help to fill shapeless skin. Your exercise routine should include aerobic and cardio exercises, abdominal workouts, weight lifting, and walking or jogging for at least 30 minutes every day. Begin practicing facial exercises, as they tone and strengthen the muscles in the face. And as you well know, strong muscles encourage the tightening of skin above those muscles.

Dietary Changes and Additions
Tightening your skin may simply require alterations to your diet. After all, raw fruits and vegetables increase your skin’s elasticity, and lean proteins help build muscles. Taking Vitamin E supplements will also assist in firming your skin. Additionally, the Omega-3 Fatty Acids found in fish. Some plants, and nut oils can tighten skin. Simply adding canned tuna to your everyday diet, or regularly taking Omega-3 supplements, will significantly boost your Omega-3 Fatty Acid levels.

Natural Skin Treatments
Another option for firming and toning loose skin is to take those same Vitamin E capsules, and rub its liquid into your skin. Olive oil can also be applied in this way. Soy protein and Aloe Vera extract can help your skin produce more collagen and elastin. Keratin, a key structural element of skin cells; a protein existing naturally in the skin, hair, and nails; and the medium for absorption of moisture into the cells, should be a major factor when shopping for the most effective anti-aging cream for your money.

Skin Hydration 
Be certain to drink at least eight glasses of water a day, as keeping your skin hydrated and healthy improves skin elasticity. Dry, dehydrated skin tends to sag. Furthermore, consistently use moisturizers to further hydrate your skin, as this increases your skin’s elasticity.

Massage Therapy to Tighten Skin
Massage is not only a relaxing treat for your skin and muscles, but it also promotes elasticity and assists in tightening loose skin. The act of massage stimulates the skin, which in turn tightens skin cells.

Self-Administered Massage
You do not need formal massage therapy training to give your face a massage. Daily facial massages encourage circulation, resulting in the production of collagen. Use small, circular motions and concentrate on areas of loose or sagging skin. If you are still questioning your technique, consider taking massage therapy classes from accredited massage therapy schools .

Visit a Certified Massage Therapist
Visiting a certified massage therapist for a regular facial massage is another great anti-aging treatment that helps you achieve a plumped, younger, smoother, and more glowing appearance. Massage therapy accomplishes this by minimizing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, tightening and lifting facial muscles, normalizing moisture balance, and reducing impurities in the skin. The massage therapist uses gentle touch to increase circulation and reduce tension in the face by softly working the different problem areas. These massage techniques help to prevent wrinkles and the sagging of facial muscles, and they even promote the eradication of heavy under-eye bags.

About the author: Bethany Brewer freelance writes online about health and beauty. She has had some of her work featured in several health publications.

How to Tighten Loose Skin Around Your Face

Everyone wants that tight looking and beautiful skin around their face. Tight skin anywhere really, but around the face is the most visible for others to see. Our face is everything after all. To get tighter skin around the face, this will take some work and commitment. I used to have loose skin around my face and I hated it. I always thought it was the one true flaw I had in my appearance. People have weight problems, or natural skin problems, teeth, or whatever. Loose skin around my face, seem to be mine. I've followed these tips on my own and they've really worked wonders for me. I decided I am going to improve my face, without a face lift, botox, or anything of that nature. My face is much tighter now. In fact I wouldn't trade my face in for anyone's now. That's the difference it's made for me. 

Instructions

1

Drink 8 glasses of cold water a day. Water will tighten your skin up. It will flush out toxins in your body as well. Not only would I drink 8 glasses of cold water, wash your face with ice water. It works and is a natural anti-aging trick that helps naturally. Your skin needs moisture. Cold water is the key and don't forget this step. It's that simple and easy. I'd recommend going swimming a lot and get a membership at a indoor pool.

2

Doing facial exercises. Why not? It's like losing weight, or trying to tighten your skin up any other place. You need some exercise in that area. It's easy to figure out why some have loose skin around their face. That area of muscle in the body do not get used as often.. Let me give you the exercises for each area of the face that work. Do these daily, if you want to see a difference.

Tighten skin and strengthen the cheeks: Getting rid of chubby cheeks. Smile as wide as you possibly can. Take your three fingers from each hand(pointer, middle and index), and push against your cheeks as hard as you can. Or you can suck in your cheeks, with you mouth closed over and over.

Getting rid of the double chin and getting a tighter looking chin: Tilt your head back. Close your mouth and look at the ceiling. Making a chewing motion with your mouth closed, move your chin up and down. Do this 100 times, each day.

Tightening up skin around your jaw and neck: So you want that visible jaw line. Who doesn't? Close your mouth. Keep you lips nice and tight. Push your jaw and chin toward your lips over and over again. Do not do this in a chewing motion. Do not move your mouth or lips at all. Just your chin and jaw.

Tightening your skin around your neck: Keeping your mouth closed shut. Suck in over and over again. It should help tighten skin around your neck that is loose.

3

Take Vitamin E and eat Virgin Coconut OIl. I enjoy taking these supplement and they have tremendous effects on your skin and tightening skin on your entire body. Eat about 3 tablespoons of Virgin Coconut Oil a day. Take one Vitamin E daily. Works well. There's also Vitamin E cream that works, just for your face. I'd get that. I can't say enough great things about Vitamin E. I just love how it's truly anti-aging. Definitely recommended!

4

Eat more fruits and vegetables. Eating fruits really helps a lot. Eat a lot of oranges, pears, watermelon and strawberries. Any berries, they are especially good. Watch your in take in salt, and avoid sodas and a lot of alcohol. Well I drink a lot of alcohol and my skin is still in great shape. But drinking is definitely not good for your skin. I have to do a lot more to make up for drinking alcohol. Avoid a lot of fried foods and try to eat lean meats. This is the commitment part

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what is Facial Peel

A facial peel is a cosmetic, chemical treatment that can be performed at by or with adermatologist to help lessen the appearance of blemishes, freckles, age spots, light scarring, and any number of other skin irregularities on the face. Also called chemical peels, facial peels can improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and give new life to sun-damaged skin.

Commercial facial peel creams and dermabrasion systems can be purchased at drugstores or beauty supply shops. These products offer a mild concoction of chemicals and alphahydroxy acids that remove dead skin cells, uncovering layers of new skin that look fresher and more even in tone. The cream is applied to the face and left for several minutes to work, then scrubbed or rinsed off with water. Some systems come with a dermabrasion tool that works the facial peel into the skin, sloughing off dead skin cells in the process. Allergic reactions are possible with topical facial peel treatments, so always test a small patch of skin first before proceeding.

For a deeper peel, a dermatologist can recommend a professional facial peel to be performed by a plastic surgeon. These can be done with stronger chemical creams, or even with lasersurgery. Generally speaking, a professional peel will remove more layers of skin, thereby removing or at least lessening the appearance of deeper and darker blemishes. The procedure is most successful with superficial skin marks and scarring; those with deep scarring or large patches of dark pigmentation are not good candidates for a chemical peel. These facial peel procedures are also effective in reducing wrinkles without having to undergo a completefacelift.

There are some risks involved with having a chemical facial peel. Some of the chemicals used in facial peels can cause bleaching of the skin, and there is a slight risk of infection and even scarring. After a chemical peel, the skin will appear red and swollen, and feel tender to the touch. Scabs may form as well, since layers of the skin are burned off with the chemicals. Normally these side-effects will resolve themselves after a few days, but with very deep facial peels the recovery time is much longer.

Facial peels are purely cosmetic in nature. They do not slow down the aging process, nor do they cure chronic skin conditions. Mild facial peels can be repeated every three to six months, but deeper peels require more time between procedures to allow the skin to recover and renew itself. As with any surgical procedure, consult with your doctor before undergoing a chemical facial peel. Make certain that your plastic surgeon is qualified and capable, and pay close attention to the information you'll receive regarding care and treatment for your face once the procedure has been completed.

Dermatologist’s tips for dry, flaky skin on your face and scalp; tis the season for seborrheic dermatitis!

Do you know if the ‘dry skin’ in the middle of your face is really just dry skin? Has your scalp started to itch a little too? If so, you may have seborrheic dermatitis.

In my dermatology practice I see a lot of patients whose seborrheic dermatitis really acts up as the weather turns cold. The good news is that with some over the counter products, you can control your seborrhea and keep your skin and scalp healthy and attractive instead of red and scaly.

Seborrheic dermatitis is a frustrating, confusing and at times embarrassing rash that’s really common. Most people don’t know they have it until they see a doctor. Patients commonly misinterpreted the redness and scale of seborrhea as dry skin. They layer on the moisturizers, which of course don’t fix the problem because seborrhea is a rash, not dry skin.

Seborrheic dermatitis is so common that almost everyone will have it at some point in their life. You’ve undoubtedly seen it on yourself or someone you know, it’s:

• Cradle cap in babies

• Red, greasy, scaly skin in the nose cease or between the eyebrows in teens

• ‘Dry’ and itchy scalp starting in the teen years and going on throughout life

• ‘Dry’, red, scaly skin in the T-zone of the face at any time in life

• Red, crusty skin on and behind the ears

• Flaking of the eyebrows

• Crusty scale and itching of the eyelashes (blepharitis), especially in the morning when you wake from sleep

• Greasy, red scaly skin on the chest and upper back

Seborrheic dermatitis may or may not be accompanied by tender, itchy pimples on the scalp, around the hair line and on the neck, chest and upper back.

If you are prone to seborrheic dermatitis then you’ll always have a tendency for this annoying rash. We don’t know what causes seborrheic dermatitis and we don’t know how to cure it. Treatment is aimed at controlling the problem, and extending the time between flair ups. The good news is that with medicated products, and good skin and scalp care, you can have clear, healthy skin by controlling your seborrhea.

Seborrheic dermatitis is one of the most common skin problems I find during a skin exam. I’ve found many great treatments for seborrheic dermatitis using over the counter products. In my next series of blog posts, I’m going to outline my favorite remedies for seborrheic dermatitis and recommend products. This is the information I give my patients in the office.

Chemical Peel

A chemical peel is a skin treatment which is used to improve and smooth out the surface of the facial skin. A chemical solution is applied to the face to peel off the top layers of skin which leads to smoother, healthier new skin growth which appears less wrinkled than the old skin. At Face Clinic London we are proud to offer superficial chemical peels from Skinceuticals, an industry leading advanced skin care company providing quality cosmeceutical products backed by science.

Why superficial Chemical Peels?
Skinceuticals superficial chemical peels are a good option for many people as they have a gentler effect and do not give visible skin peeling, inflammation or significant redness compared to medium and deep chemical peels. Superficial chemical peels do not require pain relief, and can be used in many skin types, including darker skin tones, with little or no “down time” or recovery time, which means no obvious skin peeling and no need to take time off work. Skinceuticals offer two types of superficial chemical peeling treatments, the Skinceuticals Gel Peel which is a Salicylic acid peel and the Skinceuticals Pigment Balancing Peel which is a 

Glycolic peel.

What Skin Conditions Can Skinceuticals Chemical Face Peels Treat?

• Acne- chemical peel acne treatments exfoliate the skin and allow dead skin cells and excess oils to be removed more effectively. This action unblocks hair follicles and pores and reduces the appearance of pimples, improving the overall skin texture in people with acne.
• Fine lines and wrinkles- chemical peels can reduce these, especially under the eye area and around the mouth in sun damaged or ageing skin.
• Rough skin texture- chemical skin peels can improve rough skin texture by increasing the amount of collagen in the upper layer of the skin.
• Lentigines (large freckles) which appear as dark spots on the skin, also called liver spots, or age spots- a course of chemical peels can lighten large freckles and improve the appearance of sun damaged skin.
• Melasma- is a dark skin discoloration which appears as patches commonly found on the cheeks, nose, lips, upper lip, and forehead and is common in women who are taking hormonal treatment. A course of chemical peels can lighten the appearance of dark discoloured skin caused by melasma.
• Hyperpigmentation- caused by excess skin pigment in the skin which can result in uneven skin tone. Chemical peels can lighten and even out the skin tone.
• Superficial peels are suitable for ethnic skins.

How Many Peels Do I Need?
Whilst you may see some very minor benefits after a single superficial peel. We recommend a course of six peels, one or two weeks apart. This will give the best results, as superficial peels are gentler the full benefits of the peel build up over a course of six treatments.

Book In for a Pre Peel Consultation
We advise you to book a pre peel consultation two weeks before your chemical peel where an aesthetic professional will assess your skin. You will be advised to prepare your skin with three products for two weeks before the peel and to continue these products during and after your course of chemical peels. These three products are Retexturing Activator or Pigment Regulator an Antioxidant and a Sunscreen. These products are highly recommended and in some cases essential to give the best results of the peel and are especially important for those going on a course of peels. To find out more about these products, how they work and please read our recommended skincare for chemical peels page. These products can be purchased from our online store or instore at our Soho clinic.

All chemical peels are performed by our trained aesthetic beauty therapist. Before a peel is performed, our therapist will provide a personalised skin consultation and exclude any medical contraindications. They will also advise you of any creams, treatments and procedures you should stop or avoid before your chemical peel. For further information about these please also read our Chemical Peel FAQ page.

The Peel Procedure

During the peel your skin will be cleansed and toned and the chemical peel will be applied to your skin using a gentle brush, the peel will be left on the skin for between three and five minutes. The procedure is not painful. The total consultation and procedure time is 30 minutes.

Chemical Peel Aftercare Advice
After your peel you may notice that the skin is more red than usual for two hours afterwards and may feel tight or dry. You may also experience some very mild flaky skin for a few days. It is very important to use a sunscreen during the course of your treatment and for four weeks after to prevent uneven skin tone and excess pigmentation. Please read our full chemical peel aftercare advice and our recommended skin care regime for chemical peels page.

Chemical Peel Cost

• Single Chemical Peel £80
• Course of Six Chemical Peels £400
• *Recommended Skincare before and after a chemical peel – click for more information

Prices include an optional pre peel skin consultation with our aesthetic therapist two weeks before your peel. To get the most effective results we recommend a course of six peels one or two weeks apart.

*To enhance the effectiveness of the peel we recommend use of the three creams before, during and after your course of chemical peel including Retexturing Activator or Pigment Regulator, an Antioxidant and a Sunscreen, which can be bought online or in store at your pre peel consultation.

How to Get Rid of Peeling Skin on the Face

Your facial skin may peel for a variety of reasons. Some of the causes are quite straightforward--burns, eczema, psoriasis, even scarlet fever. Other causes are more difficult to determine, involving lesser-known skin diseases and conditions. Facial skin peeling is sometimes treated by treating the skin directly, other times by treating the underlying condition. Doctors often treat facial skin conditions with pharmaceuticals and steroids, so it is a good idea to try some simple treatments first.

Instructions

1 Review whether any of the following common things could be causing your facial skin to peel: heavy perspiration; fluid-containing blisters between two skin layers; rashes; extreme weather conditions (both hot and cold weather); allergies; or the presence of skin irritants in the environment.

2 Try natural home remedies for treating your skin. These include the following topical applications: grated cucumber; fresh mint juice (boil fresh mint leaves in water and let them cool first); a paste of cooked oatmeal; a paste made of equal parts honey and olive oil, with some tumeric and sandalwood. Sandalwood can be purchased at a health food store. Tumeric is a spice, available at supermarkets.

3 Use tea tree oil, a natural tincture that is extremely effective on skin conditions. Mix one drop of tea tree oil with five drops of olive oil, coconut oil and almond oil. Add this mixture to a half cup of warm water and smooth it on your face.

4 If a sunburn or any other burn caused the skin to peel, apply products that contain aloe vera (or some of the juice from the plant) directly to the affected area.

5 Watch your diet. Peeling facial skin can be positively affected by increased doses of Vitamin A (fish, liver, carrots and eggs), Vitamin B (red meat, whole cereal grains, liver, eggs, yeast and dairy products), Vitamin C (citrus fruits, tomatoes and peppers), proteins (red meat and chicken, fish, whole grain cereals, nuts, lentils, pulses and dairy products) and iron (red meat, broccoli, beets, almonds, kidney beans, peas, dried fruits and whole grains).

6 Purchase a commercial skin moisturizer.

7 Drink plenty of water--10 to 12 glasses daily. Hydrating the skin is vital to maintaining healthy skin and treating facial skin peeling.

8 Don't use harsh soaps. Use only soaps that are specifically for use on your face.

9 Stay out of the sun. If being outside in the sun is necessary, wear a hat and use sunscreen to prevent your facial skin from sustaining further damage.

10 If none of these remedies are successful in treating the facial peeling, consult with a skin doctor.

About Skin Disorders of the Face

Angry red skin. Painful, sometimes burning itchiness. Inflamed blemishes. Scaly patches. These are just a few of the symptoms that people with skin disorders of the face - such as acne vulgaris, eczema, psoriasis and rosacea - suffer with regularly. These conditions affect people of all ages, and most disorders will not go away without treatment; some can become so severe as to cause excruciating discomfort. Beyond the discomfort, the appearance of these skin disorders - especially in extreme conditions- can cause acute embarrassment for the sufferer.

Types

Acne vulgaris, or acne, can appear anywhere on the body, but mostly on the face, neck, back and chest. Acne can range from a mild case, with just a few blemishes, to severe cases, with hundreds of blemishes, as well as large painful cysts.

Eczema - also known as contact dermatitis - manifests as an itchy spot on the skin. If left untreated, it can produce an inflamed redness, a bumpy rash and sometimes small blemishes.

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that looks like thick itchy patches of skin that range in color from white, silvery or red. It can also produce flaking skin.

Rosacea is an inflammatory condition that causes several different kinds of rashes, mostly red, appearing around the center of the face. It is sometimes known as acne rosacea, although it has no relation to acne.

Geography

People who live in in areas with higher levels of pollution have an increased risk for eczema. Also, extreme temperatures can aggravate the disorder. Some people who suffer from eczema will have flare-ups when the weather is dry and humid, causing severe itchiness, while others will have increased problems when the winter weather dries out the skin, reducing its moisture.

Rosacea is also aggravated by extremes in temperature. Staying out of the sun and using a sunscreen will help.

Features

Acne is caused when the skin's pores are clogged from oil, dirt and dead skin cells, causing whiteheads, blackheads or the red - and sometimes inflamed - blemishes. It is generally worse in adolescent years, when oil production in the skin is greater. Contrary to popular thought from previous generations, acne is not caused by what you eat.

The cause of eczema is not completely known, but several factors, such as allergies to perfume, dye, soap and other chemicals found in skin-care products, as well as stress and genetics, can trigger eczema flare-ups.

Psoriasis is caused from an immune-system response in which overactive T cells cause an increased production of healthy skin cells and T cells. The healthy cells move to the outer layer faster than normal and cannot be sloughed off quickly enough. This causes the buildup of thick scaly patches on the body.

It is unknown what causes rosacea, although hormones, infections, genetics, and environmental conditions are thought to be involved. Sun exposure can worsen the condition.

Prevention/Solution
When treating skin conditions, good hygiene is very important. Use the mildest product available. Exederm products were awarded the Seal of Acceptance from the National Eczema Association and are made without dyes, fragrances, soaps, or other known irritants. The Association also publishes a list of ingredients to avoid (in all products used on the skin) on the Eczema and Sensitive Skin Education website.

As uncomfortable as the itchy rash can be, try to avoid scratching the skin or opening blemishes. Keeping the skin clean and moisturized helps alleviate the discomfort and prevents scarring or spreading the condition. Gold Bond Medicated Cream helps soothe itchy skin on the body. Shower filters reduce the amount of harsh chemicals on the skin. Use perfume/dye-free laundry detergents and dryer sheets when washing clothing, bed and bath linens.

If any of these conditions appear around the eye, seek medical help.

Warning

Most skin disorders of the face appear similar, sometimes causing a delay in diagnosis or inaccurate home treatments. Eczema can produce acne-like blemishes, and psoriasis and eczema can have flaking skin. Rosacea, eczema and psoriasis can cause red patches on the skin. Seek medical advice if the home treatment is not alleviating the problem
.

Dry Skin Brushing

The skin plays a vital role in ridding the body of toxins and impurities. Dry skin brushing is one of the best techniques to open up the pores of the skin, and to stimulate and detoxify the lymphatic system.The skin is the largest organ in the body, and is responsible for one-fourth of the body's detoxification each day. It also makes it one of the most important elimination organs! For this reason the skin is also known as the "3rd" kidney, with the lungs being known as the 2nd kidney.

Our circulatory system has its own pump (our heart) to move blood through our bodies but our lymphatic system does not. It primarily relies on our movement to assist it. Typically, the more active we are physically the better condition our lymphatics will be.

Skin brushing helps move lymph fluid and gives us a jump-start on health. When the pores are not clogged with dead cells and the lymphatic system is cleansed, the body is able to carry out its important function of eliminating toxins and waste material.

Under normal circumstances the skin eliminates more than one pound of waste products every day. If the skin becomes inactive with its pores clogged with millions of dead cells and other debris, toxins will remain in the body. This puts undue stress on the other eliminative organs, mainly the kidneys and liver, making them increase their activity. Eventually they become overworked.

Skin brushing helps exfoliate and invigorate our skin too. It increases our blood supply to the area bringing with it nourishment and oxygen. Dry skin brushing will not only help increase circulation and elimination of toxins, but will also make a huge difference to the quality of your skin and it will look and feel healthier.
Dry skin brushing improves the surface circulation of the skin and keep the pores of the skin open, encouraging your body to discharge metabolic wastes.
Dry skin-brushing - dry meaning not in the bath - will change the health of your whole body by helping it get rid of toxins.

Benefits of dry skin brushing

• stimulates the lymphatic system
• cleans toxins from the lymphatic system
• helps digestion
• stimulates circulation
• increases cell renewal
• strengthens the immune system
• tightens the skin
• removes dead skin layers and other debris collected in its pores

Use the Right Kind of Brush

The brush used should be a long-handled, bath-type brush. It is essential that it contain natural bristles and not synthetic ones. Synthetic bristles will scratch the surface of the skin and are harsh and irritating. The brush should be kept dry and not used for bathing.
Thoroughly wash the brush with soap and water every couple of weeks. Always allow the brush to dry out when not in use.

How to Do Dry Skin Brushing

The body should be dry, and the brush should pass once over every part of the body except the face.
The best time to do skin brushing is before showering or bathing at least once a day, and twice, if possible.

Do not wet the skin since it will not have the same effect because this stretches the skin.
The skin should not become red. If it does, you are probably brushing too hard.
There should be no back and forth motion, circular motion, scrubbing, or massaging - one clean sweep does it. Use long gentle, but firm, stokes.
The direction of the brushing should generally be towards the lower abdomen.

To brush the skin, use long gentle, but firm, strokes

• Start at the feet and legs brushing upwards to your groin.
• Then do your hands and go up your arms to the armpits.
• Then brush upwards on your buttocks.
• Brush down the neck, chest and trunk.
• Brush your lower abdomen towards the center.
• It is permissible to brush across the top of the shoulders and upper back as the best contact with the skin is made that way.
• Do not brush your face.
• Brush the breasts very lightly, avoiding the nipples.

Additional information

If you haven't done skin brushing before it is wise to start with only one pass over the skin's surface. Over time you can gradually increase the number of strokes done during each skin brushing session. The reason is that too much stimulation can be too hard on the body.

And always use long gentle, but firm, strokes. Remember that your skin should not turn red, which means the pressure on your strokes is too heavy. The idea is to stimulate and not to irritate the skin.

Many people may find large amounts of lymph mucoid in their stools a day or two after beginning skin brushing. This is the emptying out of the backlog of mucoid from the lymphatic system and is the effect of detoxifying the lymph system.

Look Younger By Brushing Your Face

Hi there. I’d like to teach you how you can look years younger by brushing your face with a toothbrush. I’ve been doing this regularly for almost 15 years. I’m middle-aged now, but my skin still thinks it’s in its late 20s. Shhh– don’t tell..

You’re probably thinking, a TOOTHBRUSH? It this woman crazy? I know, I know, it does sound ridiculous. I thought so, too, until I saw how it revitalized my mother’s skin. I’m forbidden to reveal her age (seriously, she’ll disinherit me!), but I will say that I saw my mother grow a decade younger in a couple of years after regularly brushing her face with a toothbrush.

Mom’s a depression era baby and she’s great at figuring out how to achieve expensive looking results in the most economical way. She wanted to look like she was getting facials and after receiving one, the exfoliation seemed to be what enhanced the look of her skin. The esthetician had used a face brush on her and had recommended that she purchase one for home use. Ha! My mother thought.What do I need to buy an expensive face brush for when I can just use a designated two dollar toothbrush? And that’s what she did.

She got a soft bristle toothbrush and began gently brushing the skin, in circular motions all around the face and neck, and she discovered that her pores stayed clearer. Initially, the goal was to prevent acne breakouts. But after a few months, she noticed that her skin was not only clearer, it looked younger, less lined and more vibrant.

Why is this? A few reasons.
1. Brushing brings blood to the surface of the skin. The blood carries oxygen and nutrients to the skin cells. So, you are helping to “feed,” your skin when you brush it. As you do this regularly, you nourish your skin on a regular basis. If your nutrition is good, that further enhances the quality of the blood being sent to your skin tissues.

2. The exfoliating helps to slough off dead skin cells. When we’re young, the cells turnover regularly on their own, but as we age, that process slows down and the old cells cling to the surface longer, resulting in a dulling of our complexions as we age. Regular exfoliating assists the skin in this cell turnover, allowing older skin to look more like its younger self.

3. Exfoliating also draws out impurities from the pores, helping to keep them cleaner and smaller. As we age, our pores look larger. Clearing out the pores helps the skin look smoother and tighter.

4. Brushing stimulates the muscles under the surface of the skin, similarly to how they would be stimulated by a face massage. The brushing serves as a mini face massage. As you’re going over the skin, brushing in circles and up and down in certain areas, the tiny muscles under the skin’s surface are being stimulated. Blood flow to these muscle is occurring. This stimulation helps to keep these muscles conditioned in a way that they might otherwise not be. If the muscles underneath the surface of the skin remain conditioned, your face holds up better over time and there is less sagging.

When I began skin brushing, I did it just a few times a week. This is what I recommend for you as you begin. Each person’s skin is different, so you must find what works best for you. When you start, be sure to use a SOFT BRISTLE toothbrush.

Here’s what you do:
1. Wet your face and neck with warm water. You may want to open your pores by applying a warm washcloth for a few minutes.

2. Apply the skin cleanser of your choice to your face and neck. If you have dry skin, you may wish to use a moisturizing cleanser. If it’s oily, you can use something that treats oily skin. Use whatever is already working for your skin. Apply it all over the face and neck, unless it’s an acne formula, then use something less drying for the skin around your eyes. (You may want to do the eyes separately.)

3. Apply the cleanser to the toothbrush. This helps the brush glide over the skin more smoothly.

4. Begin brushing gently. Where you start is up to you, but I like to begin with the sides of the mouth. Brush clockwise and counterclockwise all over the cheeks, chin. On the forehead, you can brush in circles and also up and down. Pay attention the the area between your eyebrows, were frown lines can form. Brush in circles, clockwise and counterclockwise. If you have lines above this area, from lifting your eyebrows, brush in circles and up and down.

5. Do the eyes last. And be very very gentle in this area. If you’ve used a drying cleanser, wash it off the brush before you do the eyes and use something more moisturizing. You can even brush with moisturizer in the eye area. Put the brush on the outer part of the eye closest to your hairline, where crows feet form, and brush GENTLY in toward the bridge of the nose. When you begin, do this only about three times. As you do it more often, you use more pressure and more strokes, but begin slowly.

6. Even with light pressure, your skin is likely going to look red, depending on your skin tone. Don’t worry. The redness will subsided within several minutes. If it has not subsided after an hour, either you’ve brushed too vigorously, or this procedure is not appropriate for your skin. Start out with very little pressure and build up over time if you’re seeing good results. If your face becomes inflamed or irritated your skin may simply be too sensitive for this.

7. Always, always, always, without exception, follow this with some sort of moisturizer. Use one you’ve already been using that you know works well for your skin. If you’re brushing in the daytime, use a moisturizer with sunscreen, preferably one that has an SPF of 30 or higher. If you’re brushing at night, follow with a great night cream. Nighttime is when the skin repairs itself, so if you do the brushing, following with a night cream designed to replenish and repair, and you sleep, you’re going to get an added benefit. This is because the brushing and exfoliating prepares the skin for products to penetrate more effectively.

As I’ve gotten older, I’ve begun to face brush more frequently than I did when I was starting out. Each face is unique and you will learn to feel and see what your skin requires. At first, brush no more than three times per week. Build up slowly. If your skin responds well to the procedure (you can tell by how it looks and feels) it’s okay to do it daily or every other day.

Top 10 Women’s Skin Problems – Solved!

Chances are, you have a complaint or two about your skin – whether it’s age spots on your cheeks or varicose veins on your calves. But you don’t have to grimace and bear it. Here’s expert advice on how to handle these and other top skin conditions…

All women want to put their best skin forward, but it’s hard when you’re coping with acne, varicose veins, age spots, moles and more.

Yet having healthy, naturally glowing skin from head to toe isn't out of reach.

We asked top dermatologists about the 10 most common skin problems women face.

Find out what causes them and the best ways that you and your dermatologist can fix these trouble spots.

1. Acne

How it happens: You thought you left breakouts behind when you graduated high school, but now acne is popping up all over.

It’s a common problem, affecting about 20% of people, says New York City dermatologist Howard Sobel.

Adult acne on your face, back and other embarrassing places is brought on by several factors:

• Bacteria called P.acnes, which cause redness and inflammation
• Sticky skin cells that clog up pores
• Excessive oil production
• Too much of the hormone androgen in your body
• Compression from pressing the phone against your chin, for example, or wearing tight clothes (often the culprit behind tush acne)

Skin solution: Banish blemishes with a multi-step approach, says Leslie Baumann, a Miami Beach dermatologist and author ofThe Skin Type Solution (Bantam):

1. In the morning, use a facial wash with salicylic acid to unclog pores, followed by benzoyl peroxide topical (over-the-counter solutions are 2.5%-10%) to fight bacteria. If you have moderate to severe or resistant acne, use a prescription topical (or, in some cases, oral) antibiotic.

2. At night, use the same salicylic acid face wash or a gentle cleanser if the twice-daily dose is too drying. Follow that with a pea-size amount of a prescription retinoid, such as Differin or Tazorac, applied over the affected area to exfoliate dead skin cells and prevent clogged pores.

For mild to moderate acne, a new step-saving option is available: Epiduo Gel, which combines two prescription medications (benzoyl peroxide and adapalene, the generic version of Differin), needs to be applied only once a day.

Oral contraceptives and prescription anti-androgen medications, such as spironolactone (Aldactone), can help control hormone-fueled acne, says dermatologist Ava Shamban, owner of the Laser Institute For Dermatology and European Skin Care in Los Angeles.

What about body acne or "bacne"? It’s caused by the same bacteria as facial acne, “but can be aggravated by sweat during exercise,” Sobel says.

To prevent acne in hard-to-reach places, use a body wash with benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid daily, along with a back brush or loofah to exfoliate dead skin cells, he advises.

2. Age or liver spots

How they happen: Those annoying flat brown blotches have nothing to do with your age or liver. They’re really sun spots caused by ultraviolet damage.

“Melanocytes – the cells that produce melanin, which gives skin its color – get damaged over time and produce more and uneven [pigment],” Sobel says.

The result? Spots that crop up on sun-exposed parts of your body.

Skin solution: Try a one-two punch: one product to lighten the skin and another to exfoliate (which helps the ingredients sink in).

Hydroquinone, such as prescription Tri-Luma, is a topical bleaching cream that inhibits melanin production, so age spots fade.

“But skin can get used to hydroquinone, so I have my patients take a holiday,” Baumann says. Her patients start on a series of one to two tubes of Tri-Luma and then switch to Retin-A. Retinoids like Retin-A act as an exfoliant by speeding cell turnover.

Other good skin-sloughing options include chemical peels and microdermabrasion, which uses tiny rough grains to buff the skin.

For stubborn, dark age spots, try intense pulsed light (IPL) laser treatments to lighten them. You’ll need 3-4 sessions with an experienced dermatologist.

After treatments, use sunscreen religiously; it’s the best way to prevent age spots in the first place.

Age or liver spots

3. Scars

How they happen: Can you still see the scars from a childhood bike accident that gouged your knees? Here’s why: Scars are the result of damage to the skin’s collagen and elastin, Sobel says. The trauma can be caused by surgery, injury, even severe acne.

Skin solution: If the scars are old, you’ll have to just live with them. But you can diminish them when they’re new – less than a year old, Baumann says.

Scars that are thin, flat, white and tissue paper-like can sometimes be treated with a Fraxel laser, which pokes small holes in the skin.

“When it heals, the skin pulls together and is tighter,” Baumann explains.

Steroid injections can soften and improve the appearance of new, thin keloid scars, which are raised, bumpy and flesh-colored; older ones may have to be surgically removed.

Red scars can be treated with a vascular laser, which targets blood vessels, to tone down the color.

And the pockmarks left by a bad bout of acne? Try Fraxel lasers and injectible fillers, such as Restylane, which stimulate collagen production to help fill in depressed areas. In some cases, they can be surgically removed by a plastic surgeon.

Scar

4. Birthmarks

How they happen: Birthmarks are an overgrowth of pigment cells, although some fade and disappear over time. Most are harmless and don’t require treatment, although you may wish to remove them.

But if your birthmark is dark brown, it'll need to be evaluated by a dermatologist, Baumann says. Those can turn into melanoma, a dangerous and potentially deadly form of skin cancer.

Skin solution: A variety of lasers can target and remove the pigment. For example, a vascular laser, such as the V-Beam, can get rid of purplish port-wine stains, she says.

A plastic surgeon can remove dark, brown birthmarks by shaving them off with a blade or cutting them off surgically using a local anesthesia. There's a risk of scarring when birthmarks are excised.

Want a less drastic approach? Try camouflaging cream, such as Dermablend Corrective Cosmetics, which has waterproof formulations.

5. Spider and varicose veins

How they happen: Veins have valves that prevent blood from flowing backward. When the valves weaken, they allow blood to flow backward and pool, causing the bulges.

Varicose veins are often blue, appear twisted and stick out from the skin’s surface. Spider veins are often red or blue, small and look like branches right under the skin. Both tend to crop up in the legs; spider veins sometimes appear on the face.

They’re caused by heredity, sun damage, hormonal changes (such as during pregnancy) or adult rosacea [see below], Sobel says.

Skin solution: A pulse dye laser can zap away facial spider veins, which are dilated blood vessels. The treatment requires about three visits to a dermatologist’s office, spaced a month apart. It will cause redness for a few days.

Birthmark

Sclerotherapy is the gold standard for treating varicose veins. After assessing the vein through an ultrasound, a physician injects an agent, such as glycerin, into the varicose vein.

“This causes the vein to immediately shrink and dissolve over a period of weeks,” Sobel says. A series of three injections are needed. You’ll also have to wear support stockings for a week after each treatment.

Any way to prevent varicose veins in the first place?

“Regular exercise, such as walking or running, improves leg strength and circulation,” Sobel says.

Also, keep off the extra pounds, don’t cross your legs while sitting and don't stand in one place for long periods.

6. White spots

How they happen: Blame the sun here, too, for those uncolored spots that crop up on your legs, arms and hands.

“White spots are a sign of sun damage that has killed the cells that produce color [melanocytes],” Baumann explains.

White spots may also signal a more serious skin disorder called vitiligo, which is marked by white patches that slowly grow larger. With vitiligo, experts believe the body produces antibodies that attack and kill pigment cells, causing the gradual sapping of color.

Skin solution: See your dermatologist immediately for a skin assessment to determine if you have vitiligo.

There’s no cure for the disorder, but treatments can restore some of the pigmentation. Topical or oral psoralen, for example, reacts with UV light to darken the skin, Sobel explains.

Another option: Protopic, an anti-inflammatory ointment that suppresses the immune response, preventing antibodies from attacking pigment cells. It needs to applied twice daily.

While you can’t make white spots disappear, you can conceal their appearance with a camouflaging cream (such as by Dermablend Corrective Cosmetics) to even out your skin tone.

7. Stretch marks

How they happen: Rapid weight gain – for example, during pregnancy − or weight loss stretches the skin to the point of breaking, just like a rubber band that loses its elasticity. The result? Pinkish, reddish or purplish grooves that appear on breasts, hips, stomach and rear.

Skin solution: “Stretch marks are best treated when they’re fresh and still red,” Shamban says.

Moisturizing makes the skin more pliable and helps reduce the appearance of stretch marks. Prescription retinoid cream, such as Retin-A, is effective too.

“Retin-A helps speed up cell turnover and [stimulates] collagen to help repair the damage,” Baumann says.

A more expensive option: Fraxel laser treatments, which create small dots of damage along the affected area, stimulating collagen and elastin production to help fill in stretch marks.

Stretch marks

8. Rosacea

How it happens: The cause of this annoying skin condition isn’t known, but it can show itself in several ways: facial flushing (including redness on the cheeks and nose), acne-like bumps, small, dilated blood vessels near the skin’s surface, and swollen bumps along the nose and eyes.

“There’s no cure for rosacea, but you can get it under control and prevent it from getting worse,” Baumann says.

Skin solutions: Use cleansers and moisturizers with anti-inflammatory properties (such as Aveeno Ultra Calming Daily Moisturizer and Eucerin Redness Relief Daily Perfecting Lotion) to help quell redness.

And here’s an excuse to drink coffee: Caffeine helps to close dilated blood vessels that bring on flushing.

Also steer clear of rosacea triggers: Avoid the sun (and always apply sun block), hot and cold temperatures, spicy foods and alcoholic drinks.

For moderate to severe cases of rosacea, try daily topical treatments, such as microbe-fighting Finacia and Metrogel, or oral antibiotics to reduce inflammation and pimple-like bumps, Sobel says.

IPL laser treatments can zap visible blood vessels and facial redness in one to five sessions, depending on the condition’s severity, Baumann says.

9. Ingrown hairs

How they happen: The culprit is shaving and waxing. Shaving cuts hairs to a sharp point. When it starts to grow in, the hair shaft pierces the skin surrounding the follicle, Baumann explains. In other cases, it curls and grows back into the skin rather than breaking through it.

As with acne, bacteria can infect it, causing soreness, redness and pus.

Skin solutions: Put down the tweezers.

“You don’t want to go digging around – you can get scars,” Baumann says. Instead, slough off the top layer of skin to free trapped hair. Here’s how:

First, wet a washcloth in hot water, wring it out and apply the warm compress to the ingrown hair. This softens the skin so the hair can work its way through it.

If that doesn’t work, gently exfoliate the area with a soft loofah while showering or apply a chemical exfoliator, such as alpha hydroxy acid or salicylic acid, twice a day, Shamban suggests.

If the area is inflamed and has pus, dab on benzoyl peroxide to kill the bacteria, just as you would with a pimple.

Rosacea

In the future, nix the razor and get laser hair removal treatments, such as with the Alexandrite laser, which removes unwanted hair in about two to three sessions and is less likely to cause ingrown hairs. 

However, not everyone is a candidate for laser hair removal, so consult with a qualified doctor before you do it.

10. Moles

How they happen: Moles occur when skin grows in a cluster, rather than spreading out. They tend to be more common in people with light skin. Although most moles aren’t dangerous, some can develop into melanoma, a deadly form of skin cancer. 

Alert your dermatologist if a mole is asymmetrical (half of the mole is unlike the other half); has an uneven or scalloped border; is two-tone (such as tan and black); is larger than the size of a pencil eraser; or has changed in size, shape or color.

Skin solution: Not all moles are precursors to skin cancer and may not need to be removed. 

Get yearly mole checks by a dermatologist (twice a year if you have a personal or family history of skin cancer). 

“But if you notice any mole that suddenly grows, changes color or bleeds, make an appointment right away,” Baumann says. “Those changes could indicate melanoma.”

If skin cancer is suspected, a dermatologist may shave off or cut out the mole (using a local anesthetic) to get a tissue sample. A biopsy helps determine if it’s cancerous or harmless.

Are You Skin-Care Savvy?

If your skin-care knowledge could barely fill a pillbox, you need a refresher course. Do you know how to put your best face forward? Find out now with our skin care quiz.

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What's Causing Your Dry Skin?

Your skin is your body's first line of defense against the elements. When sun, wind, and cold leave skin dry and itchy, don't hide it under long pants and gloves. Replenish it!

To get the kind of smooth, sleek skin you'll want to show off, learn these 8 top causes of, and fixes for, dry skin.

1. Winter Weather
When the temperature drops, the humidity level plunges too. Dry air leaves skin parched. "Once the weather starts to change, I see patients coming in complaining of dry, itchy skin," says Linda Stein Gold, MD, clinical research director for the dermatology department at Detroit's Henry Ford Hospital.

Turning up the thermostat doesn't help, either. Indoor heating strips even more moisture from the air -- and your skin.

Quick Fix: Dial Up the Humidity
Install a humidifier in your home to keep air moist. Set humidity at a constant 45% to 55%, and the temperature at a balmy 68 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit.

Before you go outside in wintry weather, create your own moisture barrier. Protect your most sensitive parts -- lips, face, and hands -- with a scarf and gloves.

2. Steamy Showers
Setting the shower to steamy soothes your body, but it won't do your skin any favors. "I know it feels wonderful to stand in a really hot shower... but it can dry out the natural oils in our skin more quickly," Stein Gold says.

Standing under that hot spray long enough to belt out your favorite tune is also a no-no. The longer you linger in the shower, the more you dry out your skin.

Quick Fix: Cleanse Coolly and Quickly
Dial down the shower temperature to lukewarm, and keep showers short. Five minutes is enough to get clean without over-drying. Save the singing for your car.

3. Moisture-Robbing Soaps
Don't put just any bar of soap into your shower dish -- they're not all the same. Wash with a harsh soap and you'll send your skin's natural moisture barrier straight down the drain.

Quick Fix: Go Mild
"We recommend using a mild, fragrance-free soap that moisturizes as it cleanses," Stein Gold says. Bar or liquid doesn't matter, but choose a soap that's specially formulated for sensitive skin.

4. The Rub-Down
Think you need to scrub your skin to get it clean? Toss that old notion, along with your scrubby sponge.

"Friction strips the skin and enhances the dryness," says Nanette Silverberg, MD, a dermatology professor at Columbia University.

Quick Fix: Go Soft
Use your hands or a soft washcloth instead, Silverberg suggests. They'll get you just as clean as abrasive sponges, without roughing up your skin.

5. Losing Shower Moisture
Showering bathes your skin in moisture. Scrubbing off with a towel right afterward strips that moisture away. "The surface of your skin absorbs some of the water, which will be lost if you don't seal it in," Silverberg says.

Quick Fix: Lock in Moisture
"I recommend that you towel-dry off but still leave the skin a little bit moist," Dr. Stein Gold says. Apply moisturizer to still-damp skin, she suggests.

What kind of lotion should you use? Rub on a rich cream containing ingredients such as soothing ceramide for sensitive skin, or urea or lactic acid for very dry skin. These products "will seal moisture into the skin and create an effective skin barrier," Silverberg says.

Your face needs different moisturizing than your body. Smooth on a noncomedogenic face lotion -- one that won't clog pores and cause breakouts. Pick a moisturizer that incorporates an SPF 30 sunscreen. "Moisturizer with sunscreen addresses both dryness and sun protection," Silverberg says.

6. Aging
As hormone levels change over the years, skin becomes thin and parched.

Quick Fix: Smooth Out the Years
You can't turn back the clock, but you can minimize aging skin changes. Start each morning with a generous rub of a rich face and body cream. To minimizewrinkles while you relieve dryness, look for ingredients such as alpha hydroxy acids and retinol.

Not in the habit? Keep a bottle of lotion next to your bed so it's the first and last thing you see each day.

7. Irritants
Is your favorite sweater making you itch? It could be the fabric, fabric softener, or the detergent you're washing it in. Lots of everyday fabrics and products can irritate skin -- from dryer sheets to perfume.

Quick Fix: Set Products Free
"Free" is the key word when buying any type of cleaner or beauty product. Pick products that are labeled fragrance- and dye-free, and that are specially formulated for sensitive skin.

Wear clothes made of soft, natural fabrics -- cotton and silk instead of wool or polyester. Line your bed with cotton percale sheets for a gentler touch while yousleep.

8. Your Health
Is your skin especially scaly and red? It could be a skin condition, like atopic dermatitis or psoriasis. It can also be a symptom of diseases such as diabetes or an underactive thyroid gland.

Quick Fix: Target Treatment
When dry, red skin won't go away, see your doctor to discover and treat the cause. The solution may be as simple as taking a medication or using a prescription cream.

No matter what the cause, dry, itchy skin isn't something you should have to live with long-term. If you've tried a few different moisturizers and they're not helping, or the irritation is getting worse, see your dermatologist.

EXTREMELY DRY SKIN ON THE FACE

Extremely dry skin on the face can be painful and embarrassing. Those who have the condition may be anxious to find out what helps very dry skin and all the options available to make the skin smooth again. There are ways to treat this condition as well as prevent it from happening in the first place or reoccurring.

IDENTIFICATION
Although it is possible for anyone to have very dry facial skin, certain people are more susceptible. Women are more likely than men to suffer, as their skin tends to be a bit softer. Extremely dry skin is also more common as people age, as well as in those who work outdoors and are frequently exposed to the elements.

CAUSES

There are many factors that can cause extremely dry facial skin. For some, it is caused by being out in the sun while unprotected for an extended time, or in windy conditions for long periods. The cold winter air is enough to cause dry skin in some people. Harsh facial cleansers are also common culprits. It is also possible for poor diet and dehydration to play a role in dry skin on the face.

TREATMENTS
There are many options for treating extremely dry facial skin. According to the experts at Natural Home Remedies, switching to gentle facial cleaners, and gently massaging the face with almond oil or olive oil before bed is helpful. Using a cool mist humidifier while sleeping can help dry skin caused by the artificial heat that warms the house during winter. There are also moisturizing facial masks available in drug stores, supermarkets and beauty supply stores. Switch to a facial moisturizer that includes sunblock to avoid dry skin caused by sun exposure.

LIFESTYLE CHANGES
For a long-term solution, lifestyle changes are beneficial. Health experts at Learning Info recommend drinking plenty of water to assist hydration of all areas of the body, including the facial skin. Using less make-up can help, as many cosmetics are drying to the skin. It's also a good idea to exercise, as this improves circulation. Better circulation means more nutrients circulating in the body, which is also beneficial to the skin.

WARNING
If dry facial skin persists or gets worse, considering seeing a doctor. It's possible that eczema can be mistaken for dry skin in some people, especially early on. Eczema is not the same as dry skin, it is actually an allergic reaction to one or more things in the environment, and can be made worse by stress. Eczema may progress to look like scaly patches on the skin, or it may cause fluid filled bubbles. When in doubt, check with a doctor to be sure
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Bad Skin and Emotional Scars

When you hate your face, it's a short step to hating yourself.

For most of my life I absolutely believed that if I had better skin, the whole world would be a wonderful place to live. I would automatically become more desirable and charming. I could be cute; I could even try being "girlish" and sweet just for the heck of it. I could look straight into the camera. I could cut my hair short; I could wear a ponytail in public. I could use cheap makeup without worrying that I'd break out or look lurid and tough. I could lighten up. I could be less ashamed, less defensive, less miserable.

I figured I'd be less ashamed of facing the day without a scarred face. And I was ashamed -- constantly and profoundly ashamed. As a teenager, I totally blamed myself for the poor condition of my skin and would make serious, often written, vows to give up soda, pizza and chocolate -- too bad, since now most dermatologists agree that diet doesn't have much to do with acne. Almost every diary from those years begins with a New Year's resolution to forgo oily foods, as if that was going to begin my Cinderella-like transformation into a girl who could appear on the pages of Seventeen orMademoiselle.

I especially identified with Cinderella out of all the fairy-tale possibilities because it seemed to me that bad skin was something poor kids seemed to have; the wealthier ones had parents who would take them to doctors, or even specialists, or for facials, or buy them the right kinds of magical products that would minimize the problem.

Poor kids were left to comb our hair over our foreheads and put our hands up to cover our faces as often as possible. Yes, of course, it was the worst possible thing to do, but try to tell that to someone interested only in hiding.

You've never seen a girl with bad skin in a movie; you've never seen any woman whose flawless, silken face is anything but perfect. It just doesn't happen. Guys who have rough faces are usually cast as the tough characters, mobsters or evildoers, but at least they get roles and they are visible in some way. Physical perfection has always been at an absolute premium for women, a beautiful face is la creme de la creme -- it is at once the most essential and it is the most valued element of loveliness. You can, after all, get a body double; there is no face double to be used for the closeups. You are your face. And when you hate your face, it's a pretty short step to hating yourself.

OK, it sounds like I should be asking you to get out the violins. It's not a sense of adolescent whining I'm trying to convey, but instead to give a sketch map of a real issue for a lot of girls and women (and maybe for men as well, although I imagine it would be slightly different). How is this different from worrying about weight? For one thing, weight is (for better or worse) a topic the culture has supplied with a large vocabulary; giggling or weepy girls trade diet stories the way boys trade baseball cards.

And while it is both true and tragic that eating disorders can destroy the lives of some people and that few have died from acne, when you spend your life hating your face, the pain is pretty real.

When did it get easier? My husband Michael made all the difference in the world to me when, very early on in our relationship, he wanted to stroke my face. Gently but unhesitatingly, I pushed his hand away and told him not to touch my cheek because I felt too self-conscious, too uncomfortably aware of my own unloveliness.

He asked again, and kept asking, telling me he loved how I looked. I told him I was ashamed of the scars, and he told me that it wasn't scars that he saw, that whatever scars I was talking about were the ones left inside, from a long time ago, not ones facing the world every day.

Not to sound too corny or anything, but I took him seriously and spent time looking at what inside wounds needed healing and what inside work needed doing. And I started to be able to look at myself a little more steadily and to face the world.