Mental Struggles 

One of the biggest impacts of skin conditions is a negative impact on your mental well-being. For many people, their difficulties with their skin can lead them to lose confidence and experience other mental health difficulties. Some people can even experience anxiety or depression that is directly related to their skin conditions. This makes it even more important to make sure that you are taking care of your skin properly, so it won’t expand into causing problems for other elements of your life. 

Persistent Discomfort 

Skin issues can also cause you to be uncomfortable or even in pain almost all of the time. This can be difficult to deal with whether it is pain, itchiness, or even sensitivity. These skin issues tend to have roots that are deeper than the skin itself. For example, the itchiness is often driven not just by the skin itself, but also by underlying inflammation and skin barrier issues. So, by taking better care of your skin, you can ensure that you are more comfortable and in less physical discomfort each day. Dealing with that kind of discomfort can be a real drag on your ability to function well in your life in general. 

Concentration Issues 

Dealing with a skin disorder can make it difficult to concentrate on anything else, especially if you aren’t getting the treatment you need. Whether your skin looks differently than you want it to or you are experiencing painful sensations or itchiness, it’s important to get the help you need. Talk to a dermatologist so they can help you to figure out your problem and start addressing it in a positive way. That will help you to build confidence and feel more comfortable in your skin. 

Taking care of your skin is important and it can have a big impact on your life in general. It’s important to make sure that you are taking care of your skin when you need it. That way you will be able to maintain healthy skin that keeps you feeling great.

Read this next: Could Your Diet Be Triggering Your Flare-Ups?

The post More Than Skin-Deep: Dealing with Other Effects of Skin Conditions appeared first on DSAP Institute.

DSAP

Disseminated superficial actinic porokeratosis or DSAP is a skin condition that tends to happen in fair skinned women in their forties or older, but can start as early as 20 years old. By the way 15-20% of patients who have DSAP are men. While DSAP isn’t inherently dangerous it does lead to unsightly red spots that can be frustrating, unsightly and itchy. If you have DSAP, it’s a good idea to take steps to protect your skin by Wearing sunscreen and long sleeves. Not all dermatologists have even heard of DSAP, so many turn to peer groups for the latest information. If you’d like to join such a group go to https://www.facebook.com/groups/DSAPSKIN

Atopic Dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis is a condition that generally shows up as a rash on your arms and knees. Often being careful with the kinds of soap you use can help you to avoid this problem, but in some cases, it will happen without any apparent provocation. When left untreated, it can actually cause issues for other areas of your life. For some people atopic dermatitis appears before symptoms of asthma begin. Taking care of your dermatitis can help you to improve your skin and your life.

Shingles

Another skin condition to look out for is the shingles. Shingles can be very painful for anyone who experiences it. Shingles generally presents as a rash that causes pain and is usually just on one side of your body. If you think you have shingles, it is worth getting it checked out by a doctor. Shingles are more common in older adults but anyone of any age can get shingles. Taking care of your shingles can help you to feel better and have your skin return to its normal appearance.

Taking care of your skin should be a priority, and these skin conditions are no exception. When you make it a point to ensure that your skin is taken care of, you will feel better and be able to manage conditions more easily. Everyone’s skin is different and a dermatologist can help you to understand how to best take care of your own.

Are you willing to help us with our research? Take the survey here!

The post Skin Conditions You Can’t Ignore and What You Need to Do appeared first on DSAP Institute.

What is DSAP?

Disseminated Superficial Actinic Porokeratosis, or DSAP, is a rare skin disease. DSAP most often affects people of European descent, although it has also been reported to affect people of other races. It is more common in women than in men. The average age which patients first notice DSAP is about 35–40 years, although age increases the likelihood for its appearance, especially if you have a family member with DSAP.

It is marked by red or discolored patches on the skin. These will be in areas where the skin has been exposed to the sun. These patches will feel extremely dry and rough. Some people report itching with this disorder, especially if the area is large or frequently exposed to the sun. 

Go to a Doctor

The first step after noticing symptoms of DSAP is to get diagnosed by a doctor. Most GP’s will not be able to recognize it. You’ll have better luck at a dermatologist and even then many can’t visually diagnose it. But they can take a biopsy to get a conclusive diagnosis.

Treatment

Unfortunately, at this time, there is no known cure for DSAP. However, there are ways to reduce the symptoms of the disorder, including laser therapy, red light therapy and some prescription topical creams. You should speak at length with your doctor about your treatment options. It is also important that you join a DSAP group, which can help provide you with comfort and support after your diagnosis, there is a very good group on facebook you can join. The group can also share with you treatment options that they have found to be helpful.

If you have dry itchy patches on your skin, you will want to consult with your health care professional. He or she can determine the next steps you should take to get relief from whatever condition you may have.

The post What to Know About Getting a DSAP Diagnosis appeared first on DSAP Institute.

Apple Cider Vinegar

According to The National Eczema Association, apple cider vinegar can be very beneficial for psoriasis and eczema that is very red, inflamed and weeping. You’ll want to mix a little bit of apple cider vinegar with warm water. You can soak the affected areas in a tub or in a sink. You can also use a clean cloth to dab the mixture onto your eczema. Pat it dry and follow it up with a good quality lotion.

Aloe Vera

The aloe vera plant is a very soothing option for inflamed skin. Whether you’re dealing with a skin condition like psoriasis, you have a wound that you’re trying to heal or a sunburn, aloe can be applied right from the plant leaves. This is a natural remedy that has been used for centuries. It is incredibly safe and gentle as a lotion or as a spray form too.

Hemp and Cannabis Products

According to Remedy Review, CBD oil has anti-inflammatory properties that can treat eczema and psoriasis. While it can also work from the inside out to help heal your body, you can use topical CBD products to heal the skin and rebalance its natural moisture levels. This is a natural and safe remedy that is really becoming quite popular. Thanks to its lack of side effects and its lack of THC, CBD is being utilized for many different health conditions and ailments.

Wet Wraps

According to SELF, a large part of the problem with having psoriasis or eczema is that the skin is not able to properly retain moisture. Even with the use of very expensive products, these conditions still flare-up. Wet wraps require you to soak a clean piece of gauze in water. Apply your favorite lotion or cream to the affected area, wrap the area with the wet gauze and cover it up. This will force the lotion to be absorbed into the skin and the moisture will help the process along.

If you are suffering from a skin condition that is causing you to feel self-conscious or uncomfortable, take the time to do some research on the issue you have. There are a number of different natural remedies that you can try out for relief. If you still cannot find anything that helps, seek help from a doctor who can point you in the right direction when it comes to natural remedies.

The post How to Use Natural Remedies for Psoriasis and Eczema appeared first on DSAP Institute.

Wheat

Precision Nutrition talks about how it has long been thought that there is a connection between eczema flare-ups and wheat and gluten. Unfortunately DSAP is such a rare disease there isn’t a lot of research out there but it’s thought that many of the same triggers could apply.

Some people who have eczema and psoriasis also suffer from celiac disease. Unfortunately, the connection between these conditions and gluten is not widely understood. Those who have switched to a gluten-free diet have seen an improvement in their conditions. However, residual chemicals that are in wheat may also play a part in skin flare-ups. Before you eliminate wheat totally from your diet, you can try organic wheat flour that is free from chemicals.

Dairy

Another part of your diet that may be causing your flare-ups is dairy products. Psoriasis is a disease that is partly an inflammation disorder, and as it turns out, high-fat dairy products cause inflammation. Kettle & Fire cautions that if you’re eating a lot of cheeses, milks, and ice creams, then you could be adding to the inflammation in your body, which then makes your flare-ups worse. These days, there are many alternatives to cow’s milk, including soy, almond, coconut, and cashew milks.

Junk Food

Maybe one of the most obvious reasons for your skin flare ups is a diet rich in junk food. It has long been proven that those who indulge in fast food regularly, including eating burgers, French fries, and soda, have an increased risk of developing acne and other skin conditions. Rich in fat and sugar, junk food is also rich in the aforementioned diet triggers, wheat and dairy.

Supplements That May Help

Making changes to your diet isn’t the only way to help minimize your eczema or psoriasis flare-ups. ASEA explains that supplements that promote cellular renewal may be especially helpful for those who suffer from skin disorders. A probiotic is one supplement that may help because it helps build up a resistance to bacterial infections that can cause flare-ups.

You could also add some anti-inflammatory supplements, such as turmeric and green tea extracts. These have been proven to reduce inflammation and to regulate your blood sugar. As for regular vitamins, try taking vitamins A, D, and E. These nutrients help your skin and immune system, both of which can make your body less prone to flare-ups. Be sure to talk with your doctor before starting on any supplements.

Changing your diet isn’t always easy, but it is well worth the effort if it means that you can reduce the length and severity of your skin flare-ups.

For more ways to fade your DSAP, check out our book Fade Your DASP in 12 Weeks!

The post Could Your Diet Be Triggering Your Flare-Ups? appeared first on DSAP Institute.

1. Showering Too Frequently

From an early age, we have all been told that the cleaner something is, the better– but this is not always the case, especially when showering with water that is too hot. Skin carries an outer layer of dead cells that protect the growing skin cells, nerves, hair follicles, and sweat glands underneath. Showering for prolonged periods of time with hot water, or doing so multiple times a day, could destructively break down this outer layer of the skin and force deeper layers to go through an extensive reparation process again and again. To help your skin look its best, evaluate the real need for multiple showers a day and consider showering with cooler water.

2.Drug Abuse

No one would say that doing illegal drugs is good for your body, but some don’t understand the long lasting effects of ‘mere’ mild drug abuse. The Recovery Village explains that drugs are toxic pollutants to the body. Those toxins affect your pores — and who wants large pores spotting their complexion? Drug and alcohol abuse, particularly over a long period, can have a dramatic negative impact on the appearance of your skin. Common effects of drug and alcohol abuse are redness, dry patches, bloating, or spots. If you think you may be dealing with substance abuse, reach out to a medical professional to learn about the best course of action for your situation.

3. Dehydration

We all know that eight glasses of water are recommended every day, but this water does more than nourish our organs and internal systems. Hydration plays a significant role in the appearance of our skin as well. Dehydration leaves skin dry and flaky. This is especially problematic for those with sensitive skin that’s already prone to dryness. Furthermore, dehydrated skin isn’t as elastic as fully hydrated skin. Consequently, wrinkles and under-eye bags may become more pronounced. For optimal hydration, drink two liters of water every day. Not only will this prevent dryness, but proper hydration means that you will feel better in general and get sick less often.

To help your skin look its best, ensure you are drinking proper amounts of water every day. You should also take into account the quality of the water you are drinking. Unfiltered water may contain sediments and other contaminants that could negatively affect your health. Drinking filtered water will ensure that you are able to effectively flush toxins from your body and achieve optimal hydration.

4. Not Using Sunscreen

Everyday sun exposure is vital to health. It can boost mood and help the body synthesize vitamin D. However, prolonged exposure without sunscreen can be dangerous to both the health and appearance of the skin. Sunburns cause dryness and flaky skin. Repeated exposure can also lead to the development of sunspots and an increased risk of skin cancer. SkinVision discusses how people would be benefited by just using a mild sunscreen if they are planning on spending more than 30 minutes out in the sun. It is more damaging to the skin to be constantly exposed to the sun than to lather up sunscreen everyday. Be sure to apply sunscreen (at least SPF 30) if you expect to be in direct sunlight for more than 20 minutes.

5. Failing to Moisturize Properly

One of the most impactful ways to keep hydration locked in and maintain healthy skin is to use a moisturizer twice a day: once in the morning and once before bed. Look for a moisturizer that is either oil-based for dry or matte skin or water-based for oily skin. Some products include sunscreen as well. Other brands have anti-aging ingredients like collagen and peptides to keep your skin looking youthful.

Your skin is your most important asset. Don’t let these simple mistakes compromise the appearance and youthfulness of your image.

A not so commonly discussed skin condition is DSAP (Disseminated superficial actinic porokeratosis). Although it isn’t discussed nearly enough, DSAP affects a large number of people. There are many conditions that can cause premature DSAP symptoms or make symptoms worse. Quick discovery of the condition and changes in lifestyle will help you in your current life and in the future. For more DSAP information, please check out our “What is DSAP” page to get started!

The post 5 Skincare Mistakes You Need to Avoid appeared first on DSAP Institute.

I told him about my condition, DSAP, and how people had been using various machines mostly purchased from China. But that the issue is that they aren’t very powerful and they’re small.. so it takes forever to do all of the sections of the body.

He sent me one to try out, hoping that it would work, so that the DSAP community would find a way to manage the condition (and I assume so he could get some sales, but that’s ok).

So I am starting the process today, to use the machine every day and to report back to the facebook group with results. I will keep a record of the photos I take here, so they’re all in one place.

By the way, here’s a link to the company that makes the machine. Red Therapy Co.

Results After 5 Continuous Weeks

The post Red Light Therapy – an 8 Week Experiment on DSAP appeared first on DSAP Institute.

Understanding Skin Health and Fortification Processes

Before you can choose a skin treatment you have to understand why skin health declines and how it can be fortified. Skin is generally fortified by several substances naturally made by the body, but one of the most important is collagen. Collagen helps to give skin its elasticity and smooth appearance. As you age, your body will make less collagen. That is completely natural, but it means that your skin will reach a point when it can no longer repair itself without help. That is what skincare treatments are for.

Using Laser Treatments to Make Your Skin Stronger

One way to strengthen your skin and make it healthier is by undergoing a laser skincare procedure. You will find several types of specialized medical lasers equipment for skin health in your local skincare clinics. They can perform many types of skin treatments from the removal of minor wrinkles to the lightening of scars. Some can even help to strengthen all of your skin cells to slow down the development of future skin issues. Choosing between them will be easier when you understand their unique qualities.

While not a laser, red light therapy works very well in diminishing the scarring caused by DSAP. You can read more about red light therapy here.

Comparing the Qualities of Laser Procedures

One type of laser procedure is called non-ablative treatment. In other words, treatment that does not directly alter the outer skin layer. Lasers designed for non-ablative treatment are specially calibrated to get down into your skin and treat skin issues at their source. By getting your body to make more natural collagen such treatments can eventually cause the outer layer of skin to look better while fortifying all layers. You can also take collage supplements. Look for Collagen type 1 & 3.

Another type of treatment involving lasers is ablative treatment. Depending on the intensity of an ablative treatment it will impact the outer layer and possibly deeper layers at the same time. Ablative lasers are often used to remove blemishes from the surface of the skin through laser peel procedures. Although stronger than non-ablative treatments, they can also potentially cause more side effects, such as temporary swelling and skin infections.

Fraxel laser therapy is somewhat of a midpoint between the two above laser therapy forms. A Fraxel treatment will create columns through each skin layer. In so doing, it will cause your body to try to repair itself. By making more collagen and fortifying each skin cell both the old and the new damage will be repaired.

Other Ways to Repair Skin Damage

Lasers can repair many types of skin damage, but there are also a lot of other ways to repair your damaged skin. Skincare clinics offer such services as microdermabrasion, chemical peels and radio frequency treatments. Each one is quite different in the way it is performed. Yet, each provides similar assistance in the treatment of wrinkles, sagging skin and other skin issues. By talking to your local skincare clinic specialist you can compare and contrast the benefits and potential side effects of each method. They you can decide which one will benefit you the most.

You can also support your natural level of collagen by taking a supplement. For healthy skin and hair you should look for collagen type 1 & 3. My preferred brand is NeoCell.

Their product has the highest quality of ingredients. I have been taking it for a few months and have definitely seen results, unfortunately not on my DSAP but it has made my hair thicker and my skin healthier.

The post How to Use Skincare Treatments to Make Your Skin Healthier appeared first on DSAP Institute.

Red light therapy, photobiomodulation or low level laser therapy are all terms that mean the same thing: using light therapy through lasers emitting infrared light for tissue repair, hair loss prevention, to ease joint pain and much more.

Initially red light therapy (RLT) was studied by NASA for would healing, but since then it’s been used to treat a whole host of skin conditions, including DSAP. The red light stimulates tissue recovery through increased blood flow and collagen stimulation. For more information on how and why RLT works, just search the web, there is a lot of information about this topic.

Where to get treatment

There are two ways to go about treatment. 1) You can go to a dermatologist, salon or gym that has a Red Light Therapy machine and conduct your sessions there. You sit in or under the red lights for about 10-20 minutes a few times a week. The Red Lights are usually bigger so you’re able to cover a larger surface area.

Or 2) you can purchase your own Red Light and conduct your sessions at home. The main benefit here is that you can do this while you’re watching TV or working at your computer. The draw back is the home units are normally smaller, so you don’t cover as much surface area (of your body) in one go. In other words, you might only be able to treat one body part at a time, so 20 minutes on your right arm, 20 minutes on your left arm and so on.

There are some larger more powerful at home units like Red Rush or Platinum LED.

Both of these brands are very reputable, use the strongest lights available and ship out of the USA.

The advantage of a larger unit is that it reduces the amount of time spent on treatment. If you can cover most of your body in 10 or 20  minutes that’s much better than going body part by body part. So it really depends how many areas you have that need treatment.

Who Took the Suvey + Results

34 people with DSAP, who are all members of the DSAP Private Forum  and have been undergoing Red Light Therapy.

HIGHLIGHTS

Based on reading through all of the surveys, and at least a year’s worth of self reported  results and observations on the Private Forum, here are some highlights, nuggets of wisdom and consistent findings.

• RLT is not a cure, it is a very effective, non-invasive management tool to keep the spots under control. What the RLT is doing is fading the scars. It is not removing the lesions
• Results vary! Some people see results right away, and some don’t. Some people see a more improvement on their legs and some see a bigger improvement on their arms. So just because your neighbor had good results won’t mean you will
• It doesn’t matter if you use a home unit or use a gym or salons machine as to the success of the treatment ie: People who use a RLT at a gym don’t have a higher incidence of success.
• Consistency is most important. This is one thing everyone agrees on. If you start this you’re in it for the long haul. There is no quick fix. One respondent said it best, “You’re wasting your time without a commitment to consistency.”
• There are no negative side effects. In fact, there are many reported positive side effects. (read on for what they are)
• Most people use RLT 3-5 times per week for about 12-20 minutes per area.

How successful has RLT been?

32% of respondents said that RLT has been successful or very successful which is relatively high when it comes to DSAP Treatments. This has a much higher success most other treatments.

How Long Does it Take to See Results?

Over 80% of respondents said that it takes 4 weeks or longer to see any results and many claim that if you aren’t going to dedicate to multiple sessions per week for many months that it’s not worth investing in a machine or getting started at a salon.

Before & After Photos of People with DSAP Who Have Used Red Light Therapy 

(Photo credit: the wonderful (annonymous) women in the DSAP Private Forum)

RLT Home Brands vs. RLT at a Salon / Gym

The main difference in the RLT delivery method is whether or not it’s conducted at home or at a salon. My hypothesis before starting this research was that people who go to a salon would have better results, due to a bigger more powerful unit with better coverage, but based on this study I don’t think we can make that conclusion.

90% of at home RLT users say they were very satisfied, satisfied or somewhat satisfied vs. 85% for salon units.

1. Home Units Broken Down by Brand

REVIEW OF BRANDS

a. Red Rush by Red Therapy

This was by far the best unit because it’s able to treat bigger surface area of your body at one time, and is more powerful, so you don’t need to spend as much time each day using it. So it depends on how many areas you need to treat. If it’s just one, then a smaller unit might be fine, but if you want to treat fronts and backs of legs and arms plus torso or any combination, this is the way to go.

1. 660nm RED light for skin rejuvenation and surface smoothing
2. 850nm NEAR-INFRARED light for tissues, joints, and muscles

SPECS:

• Power: 360 Watts – Voltage: 100-240V (Works Worldwide)
• LEDs: 120 x 3W LEDs (60 x 660nm / 60 x 850nm)
• Treatment Area: up to 24″ x 60″
• Treatment Time Per Area: 7-10 Minutes
• Irradiance:
  • >250 mw/cm² max
  • 100.5 mw/cm² at 6″ – deep tissue
  • 47 mw/cm² at 18″ – energy
  • 15 mw/cm² at 36″ – skin
• EMF: 0.0uT at 6″
• Size: 10.6″ Wide x 16.3″ Tall x 2.6″ Thick – Weight: 13lbs
• Cooling Fans: 2
• Lifetime: 50,000 Hours

b. ABI 12W Deep Red 660nm LED Bloom Booster

Amazon 4.5 out of 5 stars    75 customer reviews

Amazon 4.5 out of 5 stars    75 customer reviews

• This is one of the least expensive units at $18.95.
• Only 14% of the respondents used this one. It does not appear that lower price equals lower quality as people were generally satisifed
• This was originally used for warming plants and is now marketed for skin care.
• It’s a very sturdy and durable unit, according to reviews.
• TIP: Buy multiple units (since the price is right) and have them going all at once so the whole process can be completed in 20 minutes as opposed to using one unit on each body part.

User feedback

• My arms are much smoother, and the redness has gone way down! RLT is the only thing that has improved my spots! Helped with biopsy scars too!
• I quit for fall/winter for 4 months and noticed that my spots got slightly worse, but nowhere near as bad as they were before red light therapy!

c. Pulsaderm Red LED – Light Therapy Technology – FDA Cleared

At the time of writing, this unit was no longer available on Amazon.

d. Huini Brand LED Color Photon Therapy

This unit is similar to the Omega, #1 above. It sells on Amazon for about $280.00 and from what I can tell the units ship from the United States, unlike the Omega, that are shipped from China.

Although only 1 person in the survey tried this one (with good results), it looks like a solid unit and covers a significant surface area.

e. Trophy Skin RejuvaliteMD Anti Aging Red LED Light Therapy Beauty Device

Amazon: 3.5 out of 5 stars    76 customer reviews

Only one person tried this unit, and it was successful. At $249 this wouldn’t be my choice as the coverage area is simply too small. It would take too long to get to all of the DSAP-y areas on my body.

f. NORLANYA RED Light Photon Therapy Machine 660nm, Rechargeable

At about $60, this unit would be perfect for those who have spots in a concentrated area, like the face or hands. It was designed for people wanting to reduce wrinkles, so it is the perfect size for facial coverage. But the coverage area of this unit is probably too small for anyone with DSAP

g. Platinum LED

This unit is of the highest quality available and NOT at the most expensive price. Check it out.

CONSISTENCY & COMFORT

The keys to success is establishing a routine. If you can’t commit to it, then wait until you can. If you can involve RLT into your routine you are more likely to stay consistent. Maybe you do it when you’re drinking coffee and watching the morning news, or working on your computer.

In order to be comfortable during her sessions, this person set up a serene area in her home where she can meditate, contemplate, watch TV or any other activity that allows the time to pass while keeping the mind active and productive. It also helps that all she has to do is walk in and it’s set up. No assembly required.

2. Salon & Gym Use

Many people in the survey and the DSAP Private Forum go to Planet Fitness where Red Light Therapy is part of the membership. (I am not sure if this is the case with every single Planet Fitness or just select gyms).

When I called to find out gym membership, it was very affordable at $25. So, if you are going there anyway to work out, and you can pop in for a RLT session, this is probably the way to go. If however, you have a busy schedule and can’t make it in there 3-5 times per week, then one of the home units would be more convenient so you could fit RLT’ing into other activities, like TV watching, coffee drinking, or, relaxing with a glass of wine.

Here are some comments from respondents who go to Planet Fitness or other gyms or salons:

• While my legs are about the same my arms seem to fine almost clear do different body parts react differently.
• I started using red light at a salon. Very good results after a few months so have now purchased a model to be used at home. Need to be consistent for it to work.
• I started doing RLT at a tanning salon. That’s when I saw the best results. I then switched over to the Omega light that most of our page members seem to have and have not had good results. Now I’m doing both. I only THINK I may be seeing results from this. Yes, they seem a bit fainter; but none of them have gone away. I’ve been doing this since July.
• It really improved my eczema. No outbreaks.
• It makes scratches and cuts heal faster. My skin looks better than it has in years.
• This is an amazing treatment which really works. It is a treatment which has to be continued on a consistent basis or the spots return and or new ones appear.
• The key is consistency. I joined Planet Fitness and went 2-3 times per week for 12 minute RLT sessions. I took a break for a couple months and my spots came back. So, it’s important to continue as much as possible.

Red light therapy Side Benefits

In addition to helping fade DSAP spots, you can expect some other pleasant benefits like:

• Pain relief for arthritis, and athletic recovery
• an improvement in your facial complexion
• fading of acne scars
• regrowth of hair (yes, you can use the laser on your head to get thicker hair).

Of course there are specialized products for each of these. A couple of which I thought were pretty neat

Wrinkle Reduction

This could be used to boost your collagen for a more youthful appearance, or if that doesn’t work, you could always use it on Halloween, it would make a great Michael Myers mask, don’t you think?

Hair Loss Prevention

According to WebMD over 40% of women have visibly thinning hair by the time they are age 40. So, this next product would be beneficial for for men and women. It’ll set you back about $600, but if it really works who wouldn’t pay that to have flowing locks again. The results look promising! 4.0 out of 5 stars    560 customer reviews

If your hair doesn’t grow back you could always use it as a helmet when you go bikeriding, skateboarding or snowboarding!

CREDIT GOES TO…

Thanks to all of the wonderful men and women in the DSAP Private Forum who over the last year have provided the content for this entire article.

If you  have had different experiences with Red Light Therapy please leave your story in the comments. And please post pictures if you have them!

The post Red Light Therapy helps improve the appearance of DSAP, scars, eczema & other skin conditions appeared first on DSAP Institute.

My mom has very sensitive skin and for the longest time she couldn’t find the cause of her rashes. We originally thought the culpret was food, but unfortunately this was not the case. It was so hard to see my Mom so uncomfortable for such a long time!

Since I already have a skin condition called DSAP, I’m very cautious about my skin care, cleaning & laundry products so we finally he had the idea to switch the detergent we were using to see if that was the cause of my Mom’s skin allergy.

And guess what… it worked! Although it did not relieve all of my Mom’s symptoms it was clear that detergent was a major cause of her discomfort.

Doctors such as Dr. Jeanine Downie agree that detergent can be a major cause of skin allergies. If you are worried that this might be the case for you, there is no need to worry any longer! I have put together a list of 3 Common Symptoms that you will experience if you are allergic to detergent.

3 Common Symptoms That You are Allergic to Detergent

 1. An Uncomfortable Rash Will Appear

This rash usually includes dry, itchy, and red skin. If the rash is more severe the area will also swell.

2. You Will Sneeze an Annoying Amount and Have Itchy Eyes

This type of reaction tells you that your allergy is more severe because it was brought on by inhaling the soap particles while breathing.

3. Skin Will Be Hot to the Touch and You Will Have Blisters

This is the most extreme of the three symptoms and the most uncomfortable.

When looking at ingredients in detergents there are a few things to look out for. In fact there are 3 Common Allergens that exist in many of the mixtures.

Top 3 Allergens in Detergents

1. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate

This chemical breaks up the layer of oil on your skin that keeps it from drying out.

2. Fragrance

Many fragrances are hard to detect as an allergy because the products don’t tell you exactly what the ingredients are. It is still one of the most common contact allergens in soap even though it doesn’t directly contribute to cleansing.

3. Coconut Diethanolamide

It is actually more common for people to be allergic to coconut through touch than it is through ingestion. In detergents it is similar to sodium lauryl sulfate and breaks down the oil on your skin.

If you are experiencing one of the three symptoms, or using a product with the three allergens you having a reaction called dermatitis. Dermatitis is any inflammation of the skin that leads to redness, scaling, itchy or tiny fluid-filled blisters. It occurs when your skin comes in contact with a specific substance or chemical. Your body takes in the allergy through your skin and becomes inflamed. The most common cause of detergent allergies comes from fragrances and dyes.

It is ironic that something that is supposed to clean actually has the ability to irritate and harm your skin. Many times when it comes to detergent, the area that comes into contact through touch is the part that is actually having the reaction. However if the reaction is severe enough it will spread to areas that are not covered by clothing.

It is sometimes hard to tell the difference between different types of rashes. Ones that are caused by laundry detergent normally show up all over your body. But there are ways to prevent a reaction and treat your sensitive skin.

6 Treatments for Sensitive Skin

1. Use Histamine Administered Oral Antihistamines Gels or Creams

• Second-generation Antihistamines are most commonly administered
• Make sure to check out the side effects because some cause drowsiness, nausea, etc.

2. Use Topical Corticosteroids

• Topical corticosteroids are classified based on potency
• Results are best when it is used 2-3 times a day

3. Use Natural Remedies like Oatmeal

• This is better if the reaction is occurring on a large part of your body
• Put a cup of oatmeal in a tub of water to improve the dryness and itchiness of your skin

4. Switch to a Naturally-derived Detergent

• Some ‘natural’ detergents just don’t seem to do as good of a job. I’ve searched for years and finally found Grab Green. Their fragrance free 3 in 1 Laundry Detergent works even better than conventional detergents.

5. Remove Laundry Detergent Residue Left on Your Clothing

• Use less detergent to begin with
• Use an extra rinse cycle
• Add vinegar or baking soda
• Look for detergent’s that have a good ‘rinseability’ score

6. Avoid Dyes and Perfumes

• Pick the hypoallergenic version of the detergent
• Choose the ‘fragrance free by Grab Green‘ version
• Try homemade or natural laundry detergents

If you are experiencing any skin allergy symptoms it is time to make a change! Take care of yourself, stay healthy, stay green.

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