the dynamic nature - skin care

Skin care - Olive oil for skin health

2012-01-27T12:11:00.000+05:30

Olive oil types → Nutrition → Health benefits → Olive oil for skin care → For hair care → Moisturizer → Beauty tips

Olive oil for skin gives health benefits as moisturizer, natural cleanser, wrinkle remover, anti-aging antioxidant and repairer of damages.

The use of olive oil for skin health is a known 'secret' for thousands of years. Ancient residents of the Mediterranean regions like Egyptians, Romans and Greek were using it as a food and as well as a topical nourishment.

Consuming olive oil for skin health

Skin is the largest and most exposed organ of our body and its health gets affected both from within and from outside.

Free-radicals are being produced continuously in our body due to our activities and from the food and other products we take.
These free radicals apart from affecting our other organs, affect our skin health, causing its ageing, wrinkles and diseases.
Antioxidants are present in various food items and act in our body as neutraliser of the free-radicals, protecting our body from their harmful effects.
Extra virgin olive oil is found to contain high amounts of antioxidants and including it in our diet regularly, protects our health from premature aging and wrinkle formation.

Applying olive oil for skin health

Our skin is continuously damaged by the weather elements, pollution and chemicals from outside.

Exposure to these elements causes damages to skin like dryness, wrinkles and premature aging.

Olive fruits in olive oil

Application of olive oil on our skin gives a number of benefits

It gives smoothness and promotes fairness, radiance, health and glow to the complexion.
Olive oil is well-absorbed and there is no greasy residue.
It is a good cleanser and removes excess sebum and debris on the epidermis.
It is useful as exfoliating mask and cleansing scrub.
It is a good moisturizer, having no harmful chemicals and it locks-in the moisture.
It prevents drying, chaffing and peeling.
It maintains and improves the elasticity.
It neutralises the oxidation effects from within and from outside environmental elements.
Olive oil is very useful in treating sun burns and sun poisoning.
It is effective in the treatment of skin health problems like acne, eczema and psoriasis.
It prevents dryness, wrinkle formation, stretch marks and delays ageing of the skin.
It reduces the brittleness of the nails and adds to their health, strength and pliability.
Olive oil is an excellent hair conditioner, improves hair health and gives growth, shine and gloss to hair.

Health studies have shown about the preventive effects of application of this oil on the formation of basal cell carcinoma on radiation.

In persons affected by tinea versicolor infection its suitability is to be assessed as the fungus is lipophilic and grows well in sebum.

It is better to be avoided by tinea versicolor infection affected persons.

Olive oil being non-allergic is suitable for all types of applications for skin health.

image courtesy: stu_spivack 1 7

Skin care - Reddened skin - Causes of reddened skin

2010-12-30T16:40:00.022+05:30

Reddened skin condition → Skin hydration → Skin histology

Reddened skin can be due to thin epidermal layer and lack of pigment as in the case of lips or can be due to conditions like Hemangioma.

Why the skin on lips is reddened?

Lips appeared reddened because there are plenty of blood vessels in the area.

Further the skin of the lip is very thin and made of three to five cellular layers whereas it is several layers in other areas.

Due to thinness of epidermis in lips the deeper blood vessels give reddened appearance. Further lips have lesser melanin pigment cells.

Reddened skin due to hemangioma

In infants in the first weeks of life, in some instances, endothelial cells involute to form benign growths (swellings or tumors).

These benign tumors of infancy are called hemangioma and they usually resolve by the age of ten years.

Hemangiomas have blood supply through circulatory system and when they are on the surface of the skin they appear as reddened ripe strawberry.

Hemangiomas are more common in Caucasians and almost ten percent of the population have them.

Further the incidence is three to four times more in female babies when compared to male babies.

The real cause of hemangioma is not known and it is presumed that increased levels of circulating estrogen after child birth may be the stimulus.

Mostly hemangiomas are uncomplicated and resolve by adolescence.

However they may have a psychological impact on the sufferer, especially when they form on the face.

Haemangioma

Rosacea and reddened skin

Rosacea is usually chronic and is characterised by reddened erythema of the facial skin.

Rosacea is a harmless cosmetic concern and to some extent can be treated with anti-inflammatory medicines.

Like hemangioma, rosacea is also affects more women than men.

This facial skin disorder is more common in fair-skinned people, especially Caucasians of North and Western European decent.

The usual onset period of rosacea is between thirty to sixty years of age.

Rosacea forms on skin on the face spreading to forehead, nose and cheeks.

Rosacea can also affect to a lesser extent scalp, ears and chest.

Certain conditions like extremes of temperatures, intake of spicy foods and some skin lotions can be triggers and avoiding these triggers and use of sunscreen and anti-inflammatory applications can alleviate the disorder.

Reddened skin due to Nevus flammeus

Port-wine stain (nevus flammeus) is a birth mark due to superficial and deeper capillaries getting dilated.

Nevus flammeus produces reddened discoloration resembling port wine and hence called port-wine stain.

Nevus flammeus is present at birth and usually persists through out the life of the affected person.

Nevus flammeus are caused by the absence or deficiency of nerve supply in the affected regions causing the blood vessels to dilate and allowing blood to collect in the affected region.

Nevus flammeus, over a period of time, become thickened and develop ridges and bumps and last for the life.

Port-wine stains appear equally on men and women and about 0.3% of the population may be affected by them Michail Gorbatschow affected by Nevus flammeus

Telangiectatic nevus and reddened skin color

Telangiectatic nevus, also called as stork bite, salmon patch or angel's kiss, is birth mark having irregular shapes with pink or red discoloration.

This is a highly prevalent birth mark appearing on the forehead, eyelids, knees, on lips or back of neck.

In telangiectatic nevus, the skin is not thickened and feels level with rest of the epidermis.

Stork bite is due to dilation of blood vessels and resolves by itself as the child grows.

Reddened skin due to urticaria

Hives or urticaria is a type of raised, itchy rash caused usually by allergic reactions.

Urticaria may also be caused by viral infection, excess sunlight, extreme temperature, pressure or friction.

In many instances, urticaria is idiopathic and the reasons are unknown.

Urticaria due to allergy usually resolves by about six months and idiopathic urticaria many become chronic. Urticaria - (image by: Docmo at de. Wikipedia)

Palmar erythema and reddened skin

Reddened palms, especially at hypothenar and thenar eminences is called Palmar erythema.

Many diseases and disorders are associated with this condition and notable among them are high blood pressure, liver diseases, thyrotoxicosis, rheumatoid arthritis, eczema and psoriasis.

Skin care - Causes of yellow skin color - Yellow skin discoloration

2010-12-15T09:34:00.012+05:30

Yellow skin discoloration and causes of yellow skin color → Basic skin care routine → Oily skin treatment

Causes of yellow color skin discoloration

There are many causes for yellow discoloration and the condition has to be evaluated immediately as some are harmless changes, whereas some are due to serious disorders which can be life threatening, requiring immediate treatment.

Certain pigments in the food like carotene get deposited in the epidermal layers when in excess and their presence causes the color change which is harmless.

However, certain disorders of the body systems can interfere with the metabolism of carotene and induce their deposition even though serum levels of carotene are normal, requiring investigation.

The excretion of certain drugs through skin shows up as yellow color skin discoloration.

The build up of bilirubin in the blood and the onset of jaundice is due to many diseases and disorders leading to yellow skin discoloration.

Yellow skin color and related diseases and disorders

Jaundice (aka icterus) is yellow pigment color of the skin, sclerae (white of eyes) and mucous membranes.

The increased levels of bilirubin in blood plasma (1.5 mg/dL), also known as hyperbilirubinemia, causes jaundice.

Hyperbilirubinemia can be due to various factors and categorized into pre-hepatic, hepatocellular and post-hepatic types.

Any of the causes of increased rate of breakdown of red blood cells (hemolysis) leads to pre-hepatic jaundice and discoloration.

Tropical diseases like malaria, genetic diseases like thalassemia, organ disorders like hemolytic uremic syndrome affecting kidney, bilirubin metabolisn disorders and high fevers as in leptospirosis (rat fever) causes jaundice and color change.

In hepatocellular jaundice there is usually cholestasis (bile not flowing to duodenum) and the causes are hepatitis of any origin, liver toxicity, genetic disorders like Gilbert's syndrome, alcoholic liver disease and Crigler-Najjar syndrome.

Yellow skin discoloration - Jaundice (Image: James Heilman, MD)

Post-hepatic jaundice is usually due to interruption to the flow of bile inside liver as well as to duodenum.

The causes can be gallstones in the bile duct, cancer of pancreas, obstruction by liver flukes, biliary atresia (passage closed or absent), ductal carcinoma (tumor in the duct), pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) and pancreatic pseudocysts (circumscribed collection of fluid rich in pancreatic enzymes, blood, and necrotic tissue).

Jaundice discoloration conditions require a combination of liver function tests to arrive at the exact causes and diagnosis.

Yellow skin discoloration and newborn

Mild jaundice is observed in many newborns and this neonatal jaundice discoloration is usually harmless.

This condition may be seen from second day to eighth day in normal birth and for about two weeks in premature births.

It is presumed that apart from higher turnover of red blood cells, physiological and metabolic adjustments after birth, causes this increase in serum bilirubin in newborn.

This increased levels of bilirubin gets lowered with regular urination and bowl movement; hence regular and proper feeding of the baby are very important.

However in a few rare cases, neonatal hyperbilirubinemia causes kernicterus, a brain-damaging condition, resulting in life-long disability.

To avoid this risk it is better to treat the neonatal jaundice by exposing the baby to intense phototherapy.

Inadequate feed, infections, internal bleeding or liver disorder or malfunction or incompatible Rh blood factors of mother and child can also lead to skin discoloration requiring proper treatment.

Yellow skin color due to primary carotenoderma

Ingesting food containing high levels of carotenoids causes increased serum levels of carotene and its deposit in the skin.

Carotenoids are deposited in the intercellular lipid containing spaces in stratum corneum.

yellow skin color - Carotenoderma on Nose (Image: en.wikipedia.org/User:Foiltape)

Thick skin layers and regions of increased sweating like nasolabial folds, palms, knees and soles bear increased deposits and show greater discoloration.

Carotenoderma differs from yellow skin color due to bilirubin in not showing discoloration of white of eyes.

Primary carotenoderma color usually disappears after the reduction in intake of carotenoids.

Yellow skin discoloration due to secondary carotenoderma

Usually a underlying disease condition causes increase in serum levels of carotene and secondary carotenoderma discoloration, though the carotene intake is normal.

Kidney malfunction or dysfunction is usually associated with decreased excretion of carotenoids and hypercarotenemia and color change.

Impaired conversion of carotenoids to retinol as seen in diabetes mellitus and hypothyroidism and associated increase in serum lipids as seen in diabetes mellitus, nephrotic syndrome and hypothyroidism causes yellow skin color and secondary carotenoderma.

In Anorexia nervosa, a self-imposed starvation, diets may be rich in carotene.

Liver disease also causes yellow skin color due to poor utilization and breakdown of carotene resulting in its increased serum levels.

Yellow skin color due to drugs

The use of certain drugs in the treatment of diseases causes yellow skin discoloration.

Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) are used in the treatment of various cancers.

Sunitinib (a TKI) used in the therapy is associated with many adverse events and causes yellow skin color.

Color changes start after a week of treatment and with the continuation of the treatment, color intensification has been noticed.

The sclerae and mucous membranes are spared of the color change and the drug discontinuation causes disappearance of the discoloration.

Probably the drug excretion via the epidermis causes this discoloration.

Another TKI, sorafenib also causes a diffuse yellow discoloration of the skin.
Related topics:
Types of skin discoloration
Whitening and fairness
Dark color pigmentation
Reddened conditions
Bluish color changes
White discoloration and hypopigmentation
Pictures of various types of pigmentation
Reddish color causes
Yellow skin discoloration (current topic)

Skin care - Bluish skin - Bluish discoloration of skin

2010-12-07T16:08:00.013+05:30

Bluish skin discoloration → Olive oil for skin → Skin histology

Bluish discoloration of skin can be due to cyanosis, Raynaud's Syndrome, methemoglobinemia, Mongolian spot or argyria.

The skin color is determined by epidermis pigments and the colors of blood and pigments carried by the blood.

Oxygen saturated blood is bright red in color and oxygen depleted blood appears dark red.

The optical properties of epidermis distort the color of the oxygen-depleted blood to appear bluish.

Bluish skin discoloration and cyanosis

Deoxygenated hemoglobin equal to 2.5 g/dL or greater in blood causes bluish discoloration of skin called cyanosis.

Though the deoxygenated blood appears dark red, there are certain optical principles involved in its giving of different discoloration to the skin.

Tissues are low in oxygen in cyanosis and are filled up with dark red deoxygeneted blood in place of oxygenated bright red blood.

Darker blood generates shift in optical effects leading to bluish skin discoloration.

Cyanosis can be due to many health problems and notable among them are all types of blood circulatory problems, all types of ventilatory problems and extreme cold.

Toxins such as cyanide interfere with oxygenation of blood and cause cyanosis.

In cyanosis two types of conditions are observed namely central and peripheral.

Circulatory or ventilatory problems cause reduced oxygenation of blood in the lungs and slowing down the oxygen circulation. This is a serious situation can lead to lung or heart failure.

In the peripheral cyanosis only the extremities are affected due to inadequate blood oxygen supply. This can be corrected by increasing the oxygenated blood supply.

Bluish skin discoloration - Cyanosis (Image attribution: Bcatt at en.wikipedia)

Bluish discoloration of skin - Raynaud's Phenomenon

Raynaud's Phenomenon is a vasospastic disorder in which blood vessels in fingers and toes spasm, leading to vasoconstriction.

Raynaud's Phenomenon causes color changes in the toes and fingers and their necrosis if unattended.

Raynaud's Phenomenon occurs in sensitized persons as an exaggeration of vasomotor response to emotion or cold.

In Raynaud's Phenomenon the sympathetic nervous system is hyperactivated affecting the peripheral blood vessels and their extreme vasoconstriction leading to tissue hypoxia.

Recurrent attacks can cause tissue damage, ulceration, gangrene and necrosis.

Shifting to a warm room and keeping fingers in warm water may relieve the symptoms and restore blood circulation.

Persons prone to attacks of Raynaud's Phenomenon are advised to keep themselves warm and if necessary use vasodilatory drugs under the advice of physician.

Bluish discoloration of skin - Raynaud's Syndrome (Image attribution: Tcal at en.wikipedia)

Bluish skin discoloration - methemoglobinemia

Methemoglobinemia is a blood disorder wherein, methemoglobin, an oxidised form of hemoglobin is present in levels above normal condition.

In methemoglobinemia, due to oxidative stress the oxygen carrying ferrous ion of haemoglobin molecule is oxidised to ferric state.

This is results in conversion of hemoglobin to methemoglobin which does not bind oxygen.

If the levels of methemoglobin are high in blood bluish chocolate-brown color is imparted to blood.

Methemoglobinemia impedes normal oxygen transport resulting in tissue hypoxia and discoloration of skin.

Methemoglobinemia may be congenital with autosome recessive inheritance pattern.

Since congenital methemoglobinemia is recessive, there is a chance of inheritance in the offspring only if both the parents carry the gene.

Patients with impaired production of NADH (the essential cofactor for diaphorase I) with the resultant pyruvate kinase deficiency have risk of getting methemoglobinemia and bluish skin discoloration.

Methemoglobinemia is acquired in people exposed to exgenous oxidizing drugs and chemicals.

Antibodies like dapsone, sulphonamides and trimethoprim can give rise to increased methemoglobin levels and methemoglobinemia.

Certain local anaesthetics (prilocaine and articaine), chlorates, bromates, metoclopramide, nitrates and aniline dyes can also cause methemoglobinemia.

Methemoglobinemia disorder can be treated with oxygen supplementation and administration of intravenous methylene blue 1% solution.

Bluish discoloration of skin - Mongolian spot

Mongolian spot is a congenital birthmark, which is flat, benign and harmless; it is sometimes mistaken as an injury or bruise during child-birth.

Mongolian spot exclusively involves skin and is due to melanocytes (melanin producing cells) embedded deep in the skin.

Mongolian spot results from melanocytes entrapment in the dermis during their embryonic development.

Mongolian spot is usually a bluish skin discoloration and with irregular shape and wavy borders.

Mongolian spot can appear as multiple spots usually on the shoulders, flanks, lower back and the buttocks.

Mongolian spot is highly prevalent in East Asians, East Africans, Polynesians and Turkic people. As the child with Mongolian spot grows, the spot fades and disappears by puberty.

Bluish skin discoloration - argyria

Argyria is condition wherein irreversible bluish or bluish-grey skin discoloration is caused by exposure to silver dust, silver compound and elemental silver.

Silver gets accumulated in the body and the skin on chronic exposure. On exposure to sunlight these particles in the skin darken giving a dark discoloration.

Generalized argyria occurs when silver containing compounds are ingested and the whole body gives bluish discoloration.

Localized argyria occurs due to continuous contact with silver and its compounds.

Argyria is a harmless cosmetic problem which can be socially debilitating and mildly disfiguring.

Though generally believed to be irreversible, avoidance of sun exposure and laser therapy appears to give good results.

Bluish skin discoloration - Argyria (Image :Akhil Wadhera MD and Max Fung MD)
Related topics:
Types of skin discoloration
Whitening and fairness
Dark pigmentation
Yellow pigmentation
Reddened conditions
White hypopigmentations
Pigmentation pictures
Reddish coloration
Bluish skin discoloration (current topic)

Skin care - Reddish skin - Reddish skin discoloration

2010-12-05T14:39:00.011+05:30

Reddish skin discoloration → Homemade face moisturizer → Glutathione benefits for skin

Reddish skin discoloration is due to increased blood flow or bleeding underneath epidermis.

Reddish skin discoloration (Erythema) is the result of increased blood flow (hyperemia) of the capillaries in the lower dermal layers.

Bruises, certain infections and injuries can give rise to purpura, a reddish discoloration due to bleeding underneath the epidermis.

Erythema - reddish skin discoloration

Erythema is hyperaemia of the skin, wherein there is increased blood flow in capillaries in the lower layers.

Erythema usually has medical implications and occurs with any inflammation, injury or infection.

Erythema can be caused by dermatitis and rash, dermal and body infections, toxic insect bites, massage and friction, acne and acne medication, physical exercises, UV radiation and sunburn, radiation therapy, allergic reactions and hypersensitivity and dermabrasion.

Dermatitis can result due to a wide varieties of conditions like fungal infections, eczema, psoriasis, parasitic infections, measles, Lyme disease, rubella, acne, meningitis, drug abuse, stress and anxiety.

The cause of erythema in 30-50% of incidences can be unclear and unknown.

There is usually temperature elevation at the site of erythema with skin discoloration due to engorgement of blood vessels with oxygenated blood.

On finger pressure, erythema disappears whereas in purpura the reddish color persists.

Fall in atmospheric pressure can also induce erythema.

Skin discoloration - sunburn

Purpura and purple or reddish discoloration

Purpura is the appearance of purple or reddish color caused by bleeding underneath.

Purpura does not blanch on applying finger pressure while erythema disappears.

Purpura can result due to injuries and bruises, infections, cutaneous small-vessel vasculitis, foods, hereditary disorders and drug reactions.

In bruise the capillaries and sometimes venules are damaged due to injury allowing blood to seep beneath the skin and into surrounding interstitial tissues.

Disseminated intravascular coagulation is a pathological activation of blood clotting (coagulation) induced by certain infections.

In typhus infection dull reddish rash appears on the middle of body and spreads.

Meningitis caused by meningococcal bacteria may be accompanied by a characteristic rash.

Inflammation of small blood vessels (cutaneous small-vessel vasculitis) is clinically characterized by purpura.

Food-induced purpura may result from ingestion of food containing Escherichia coli, benzoates or tartrazine dye.

Allergic reactions to certain drugs can cause extensive purpura.

Purpura can occur due to hereditary blood coagulation disorders as in the case of hemophilia or von Willebrand's disease.

In most cases of purpura there is initially crimson skin, which turns purple and then blue due to breakdown of blood cells.

Skin discoloration - purpura (image: James Heilman, MD)

Reddish skin discoloration and carbon monoxide poisoning

Carbon monoxide is a poisonous gas formed by burning of carbon materials under low oxygen conditions when there is not sufficient oxygen to produce carbon dioxide.

This gas may get produced in running car engine in a closed garage or by burning wood or operating stove in a small closed room.

When this gas is inhaled in larger quantities carbon monoxide poisoning occurs which is highly visible on the victims as crimson skin.

Carbon monoxide is highly reactive with blood hemoglobin and forms carboxyhemoglobin.

Carboxyhemoglobin at concentrations above 30% appears bright crimson and the color intensifies with increase in concentrations.

Though at these concentrations it can be fatal, many survivors of lower exposure show apart from many debilitating effects show reddish skin discoloration.

Related topics:
Whitening and fairness
Types of discoloration
Dark pigmentation
Yellow pigmentation
Reddened skin
Blueness
White hypopigmentations
Pictures
Reddish skin discoloration (current topic)

Skin pictures - Skin discoloration pictures - Pictures of Skin hyperpigmentation

2010-11-30T19:36:00.030+05:30

Pictures of skin discoloration → Basic skin care routine → Dry skin moisturizers

Patchy irregular skin discoloration can be caused by various reasons.

The pictures of skin discoloration and the brief description gives us a clear idea about the conditions and the ways to tackle them.

Changes in melanin pigmentation, diet, pregnancy, inflammation, growth of foreign organisms, diseases, hypercarotenemia, hypervascularization, cyanosis, mineral overload, medicines and jaundice can cause these various hues of discoloration.

Skin discoloration can be different and versicolor like white, brown, dark, red, pink,black, bluish, orangish, yellowish, bronze and slate colors.

Skin discoloration and hyperpigmentation in Addison disease

Addison's disease, which is a disorder of adrenal gland insufficiency, increased tanning can be noted.

The manifestation of Addison disease in the skin primarily by hyperpigmentation.

Hyperpigmentation pictures :United States president John F. Kennedy (1961-63), had Addison's Disease.

Sunburn

Sunburn is a burn to skin tissue due to over exposure to sun light. There is malady and pain with hot, red or reddish skin and associated fatigue and mild dizziness.

Hyperpigmentation pictures: Sunburn

Tanning

Tanning is a process by which skin color is darkened due to exposure to ultraviolet rays.

Moderate exposure to sun light has benefits like enhancing the vitamin D production by the dermis.

Hyper pigmentation pictures: Tanning

Freckles

Freckles are often visible in people with fair complexion and are concentrated clusters of melanin deposits.

Freckles contrast from moles and lentigines in that there is no increase in the number of melanin producing cells.

Hyperpigmentation pictures: Freckles

Lentigo

Lentigo (plural lentigines) is a benign hyperplasia (proliferation of cells) of melanocytes.

Regardless of sun exposure lentigo is stable in color and differ from moles in its linear spread, whereas moles are multi-layer nests of melanocytes.

Hyperpigmentation pictures: Lentigo

Ancanthosis nigricans

Ancanthosis nigricans is brown to black, velvety, poorly defined skin discoloration.

Ancanthosis nigricans dark brown discoloration is usually found in the body folds like groins, armpits, neck folds etc.

Hyperpigmentation pictures: Ancanthosis nigricans

Scleroderma diabeticorum

Scleroderma diabeticorum is a rare disorder affecting people with type 2 diabetes.

Scleroderma diabeticorum causes thickening of epidermis on the upper back and the back of the neck with excess black or dark brown melanin deposits.

Hyperpigmentation pictures: Scleroderma diabeticorum

Albinism

Albinism (achromia) is a hypopigmentary disorder which is congenital.

Albinism results from defect in production of melanin pigment due to dysfunction of melanocytes (melanin producing cells) in the skin, hair and eyes.

Hypopigmentation pictures: Albinism

Leucism

Leucism, white skin discoloration, is a result of defects in neural crest pigment cell differentiation.

Unlike albinism wherein the melanocytes are very much present but they fail to produce melanin pigment only, here the discoloration is caused due to defect in the embryonic development and there is partial or complete absence of pigment cells.

Hypopigmentation pictures: Leucism

Vitiligo

In vitiligo,a chronic disorder, loss of pigment (depigmentation) occurs in patches leading esthetic disfigurement of the affected individual.

These depigmentation patches occur usually on the extremities and around body orifices like umbilicus, mouth, genitalia, nostrils and eyes.

Hypopigmentation pictures: Vitiligo (Image: James Heilman, MD)

Tinea versicolor

Tinea versicolor is caused by yeasts (fungi) Malassezia globosa and Malassezia furfur.

The first signs of tinea versicolor infection are small spots of white discoloration, usually lighter than the surrounding area, developing on the oily areas of the body, such as back, upper arms and shoulder giving rise to itching.

Discoloration pictures: Tinea versicolor

Nevus depigmentosus

Nevus depigmentosus are harmless non-progressive hypopigmented stable localised patches.

Nevus depigmentosus patches result from localised abnormalities in the function of melanocytes which fail to produce pigments.

Nevus depigmentosus

Mongolian spot

Mongolian spot, also known as "Mongolian blue spot," is a benign, flat, congenital birthmark with wavy borders and irregular shape.

The blue colour is caused by melanocytes, melanin containing cells, that are deep under the skin.

Mongolian spot on six month old baby(image: abby lu)
Related topics on skin care:
Types of skin discoloration
Whitening and fairness
Reddened condition
Dark pigmentation
Yellow pigmentation
Reddish discoloration
Blueness
White skin discoloration
Skin discoloration pictures (current topic)

Skin care - Brown skin discoloration - Dark or black skin discoloration

2010-11-29T19:44:00.020+05:30

Dark, black or brown skin discoloration → Glutathione (GSH) for skin whitening → Sensitive, tender, painful and tingling skin

Black or dark brown discoloration of skin is due to hyperpigmentation.

Hyperpigmentation in most of the cases is caused by excess production of the melanin pigment.

Sun damage, diseases, inflammation, hormonal imbalances, injuries etc. can cause excess pigmentation leading to skin discoloration and the incidence of dark brown or black patches.

People with dark skin tones like Mediterranean, African or Asian skin tones are more prone for excess pigmentation.

Sun exposure and dark brown or black skin discoloration

Sun exposure, which has Ultraviolet A and ultraviolet B radiation, brings about color changes on the skin in two different ways.

Initially the Ultraviolet A (UVA) radiation which is usually in the range of 320 to 400 nm., by oxidative stress, causes the release of melanin from the melanocytes and causes its oxidation by combining with oxygen leading to rapid darkening of the melanin.

Secondly, melanogenesis, which is skin reaction to

photo-damage from UV radiation (CPD-DNA damage or direct DNA damage), increases the production of melanin pigment.

The tanning or darkening by melanogenesis is a delayed reaction and become visible only about three days after exposure.

Sunscreens, umbrellas and hats can go a long way in protection from sun damage.

Black, brown or dark skin discoloration caused by freckles, age spots (liver spots) and lentigines

Freckles (aka ephelis) are often visible in people with fair complexion and are concentrated clusters of melanin deposits.

Though many people have freckles, their origin is genetic in nature and freckles are triggered by exposure to sun.

Freckles contrast from moles and lentigines in that there is no increase in the number of melanin producing cells. Lentigo (plural lentigines) is a benign hyperplasia (proliferation of cells) of melanocytes.

Regardless of sun exposure lentigo is stable in color and differ from moles in its linear spread, whereas moles are multi-layer nests of melanocytes.

Liver spots or age spots are associated with aging and are blemishes on the skin associated with exposure to UV radiation from the sun.

These dark brown or black liver spots particularly form on the face, hands, neck, shoulders and head.

Freckles, lentigines and liver spots are benign and harmless and if required can be treated with skin whitening treatments

Black, Dark or brown skin discoloration caused by melasma

Chloasma or melasma are hyperpigmentation patches particularly common in women.

Melasma are irregular dark, black or brown patches of excess pigment found on the nose, upper cheek, lips and forehead causing cosmetic discoloration.

Melasma is usually prevalent in pregnant women (mask of pregnancy), women using contraceptives or women under HRT (hormone replacement therapy) medications.

Melasma is also prevalent in men and women of Jewish descent, Russian descent, German descent and Native American descent.

Genetic predisposition, thyroid diseases and female hormones (estrogen and progesterone) are the determining factors of developing melasma.

Melanocytic nevus (mole) and dark brown, black skin discoloration

Melanocytic nevus is a common dark brown or black growth of the epidermis which are known as birth mark.

Melanocytic nevus may form sub-dermal under the skin or form a pigmented growth on the skin.

Melanocytic nevi present at the time of birth or around the time of birth are called congenital nevi.

Melanocytic nevi may also appear in the childhood or later stages of life and their discoloration may range from dark brown or black.

Though in most of the cases Melanocytic nevi are harmless, any mole which changes color, shape, size or hurts may have to be investigated as some can turn into melanoma (a type of skin cancer).

Brown, black or dark skin discoloration caused by Addison's disease

Addison's disease, a chronic adrenal insufficiency disease, is a rare endocrine disorder wherein adrenal glands malfunction or show functional insufficiency.

Apart from the symptoms like weight loss, weakness, nausea, fever, diarrhea, muscle pains and headache, the Addison's disease affected person suffers from dark brown or black discoloration patches.

It can give rise to freckles on the face, neck and shoulders and also dark brown or black patches on the knees, elbows, toes, knuckles and forehead.

Dark, brown or black skin discoloration caused by Alkaptonuria

Alkaptonuria or black urine disease is a rare inherited disorder leading to degradation of tyrosine and production and accumulation of homogentisic acid.

Alkaptonuria causes damage to cartilage and heart valves and precipitates formation of kidney stones.

Alkaptonuria disorder leads to dark brown or black skin in sun exposed areas and around sweat glands.

Ancanthosis nigricans and black, brown or dark skin discoloration

Ancanthosis nigricans is brown to black, velvety, poorly defined skin discoloration.

Ancanthosis nigricans dark brown discoloration is usually found in the body folds like groins, armpits, neck folds etc.

Ancanthosis nigricans, typically occurs in persons below 40 years and it is associated with obesity, hormonal anamolies and insulin resistance.

Control of blood sugar and obesity improves the symptoms.

Black, dark or brown skin discoloration and Scleroderma diabeticorum

Scleroderma diabeticorum is a rare disorder affecting people with type 2 diabetes.

Scleroderma diabeticorum causes thickening of epidermis on the upper back and the back of the neck with excess black or dark brown melanin deposits.

Scleroderma diabeticorum can be treated by bringing blood sugar under control and using moisturizers for softening the epidermis.

Dark, brown or black skin discoloration between thighs and in armpits

In some persons, especially in obese persons, the skin between the thighs and also in the armpits gets darkened due excess melanocyte deposit as a result of excessive sweating and dead cells build-up leading to dermatitis and related fungal infections.

Use of antifungal preparations followed by exfoliation and dermabrasion, if necessary, can remove the excess pigmentation to a great extent.

Related topics on skin care:
Types of skin discoloration
Whitening and fairness
White skin discoloration
Reddened condition
Yellow pigmentation
Reddish discoloration
Bluish discoloration
Pictures
Dark brown or black skin discoloration (current topic)

Skin care - White skin discoloration - Pale skin discoloration

2010-11-27T12:39:00.018+05:30

White skin discoloration → Glutathione benefits for skin → Oily skin tips

White skin discoloration occurs due to hypopigmentation.

The epidermis layer of our skin has melanin pigment which gives different hues to our skin ranging right from white to dark black.

The amount of melanin to be produced and the color of a person are decided by the genetic factors.

However there are cases wherein white hypopigmentation occurs due to some other factors like lack of vitamins, congenital conditions, autoimmune diseases, injuries, infections etc.

White skin discoloration due to albinism

Albinism (achromia) is a hypopigmentary disorder which is congenital.

Albinism results from defect in production of melanin pigment due to dysfunction of melanocytes (melanin producing cells) in the skin, hair and eyes.

Albinism can be complete or partial leading to degrees of absence of melanin pigment in the hair, skin and eyes.

Two main clinical phenotype categories of albinism are ocular albinism and oculocutaneous albinism which are further categorized into subtypes based on specific genetic mutations.

This genetic white color occurs due to mutations to the tyrosinase gene and several different types of mutations can occur.

Certain mutations can lead to completely inactive tyrosine enzyme production resulting in total albinism.

In some mutations tyrosine enzyme may have reduced activity (leaky mutations) and partial albinism may result.

Mutations to P protein gene and human gene coding for TRP-1 also produce varying degrees of albinism.

Albino deer (image: Paulo Brandao)

Leucism and white skin discoloration

This condition of white skin discoloration is a result of defects in neural crest pigment cell differentiation.

In partial absence of pigment cells 'piebald' effect is seen with varying degree of pigment absence leading to spotted white skin discoloration.

Another difference between albinism and leucism is that albinos lack pigment in both iris and the retinal pigmented epithelium (RPE) leading to red color of the internal blood vessels showing up as red eyes.

However the formation of iris and the retinal pigmented epithelium is by the outpouching of the neural tube during development and is not affected by the neural crest aberration.

Hence the eye color is not affected and has normal pigmentation in leucism.

White skin discoloration and vitiligo

In this chronic disorder loss of pigment (depigmentation) occurs in patches leading aesthetic disfigurement of the affected individual.

Though the very exact cause of this white hypopigmentation is not known, most of the researchers agree that autoimmunity, neural, oxidative stress, genetic or viral causes precipitate the death and destruction of melanocytes.

These depigmentation patches occur usually on the extremities and around body orifices like umbilicus, mouth, genitalia, nostrils and eyes.

Vitiligo and white skin discoloration (image: Jmh649)

There are different types of vitiligo and now various treatments are available for eradication or camouflage of the pale patches.

Leprosy and white skin discoloration

Leprosy or Hansen's disease (HD), which is now on the verge of eradication from the world population, is a chronic disease caused by the bacteria Mycobacterium leprae and Mycobacterium lepromatosis.

Skin lesions are the initial external signs, characterized by one or more hypopigmented white or pale discoloration macules or patches.

These pale patches are anaesthetic in nature where sensations are lost.

This is due to damage caused by human immune cells on the peripheral nerves.

Leprosy can be cured completely and if detected early damages to nerves, skin, eyes and limbs can be prevented.

White skin discoloration and tinea versicolor

Tinea versicolor is caused by yeasts (fungi) Malassezia globosa and Malassezia furfur.

Tinea versicolor, though lives on everyone skin, sometimes it over grows on some people and the exact reason is not clear.

However, tinea versicolor is found to affect people with oily epidermis and in tropical and humid climates.

The first signs of tinea versicolor infection are small spots of white skin discoloration, usually lighter than the surrounding area, developing on the oily areas of the body, such as back, upper arms and shoulder giving rise to itching.

These white skin discoloration caused by tinea versicolor can be effectively treated and cured with anti-fungal lotions.

Idiopathic guttate hypomelanosis and white skin discoloration

Idiopathic guttate hypomelanosis is a non-infectious common benign acquired disorder of the epidermis affecting women more frequently than men.

Idiopathic guttate hypomelanosis appears to affect the exposed areas of the body, more particularly forearms and legs, in late twenties.

Idiopathic guttate hypomelanosis appears as small drops-like spots of white skin discoloration, the exact cause of which is not clear.

However, as they appear on the exposed parts of the body, exposure to sun may have some role on the melanocytes making them effete.

White skin discoloration and nevus depigmentosus

Nevus depigmentosus are harmless non-progressive hypopigmented stable localised patches.

Nevus depigmentosus patches result from localised abnormalities in the function of melanocytes which fail to produce pigments.

Most of the nevus depigmentosus patches are usually present right from birth.

White skin discoloration and pityriasis alba

Pityriasis alba is a common and highly prevalent facial condition occurring in children.

Pityriasis alba appears as dry, fine-scaled, pale patches especially on the face.

Pityriasis alba is a non-contagious condition and resolves by itself after sometime.

Use of moisturizers improves the scaly condition especially in winter.

Avitaminosis and white skin discoloration

The chronic lack of certain vitamins, especially vitamins of the B complex group in the diet can cause hypopigmentation.

This hypopigmentation can be corrected by improving the quality of diet and taking vitamin supplements.

Related topics on skin care:
Types of skin discoloration
Whitening and fairness
Reddened condition
Dark pigmentation
Yellow pigmentation
Reddish discoloration
Blueness
Pictures
White skin discoloration (current topic)

Skin care - Skin discoloration - Types of skin discoloration

2010-11-22T19:02:00.016+05:30

Skin discoloration types and disorders → Homemade skin moisturizer recipe → Oily skin tips

Skin discoloration can indicate mild to severe medical conditions.

Changes in skin color and patchy irregular discoloration can be caused by various reasons.

Skin discoloration can be different with hues like white, dark, brown, red, pink, bluish, yellowish, orangish, bronze and slate colors.

Changes in melanin pigmentation, hypervascularization, pregnancy, inflammation, diet, growth of foreign organisms, diseases, cyanosis, hypercarotenemia, mineral overload, medicines and jaundice can cause these various hues of discoloration.

Skin discoloration with white or pale spots and patches

White patches and lightening of epidermis occurs due to hypopigmentation, wherein the melanin pigmentation gets reduced.

This situation can be due to self destruction of melanin producing cells (melanocytes) in diseases like vitiligo.

Certain infections like tinea versicolor can affect the melanocytes and white patches can appear.

Conditions like nevus depigmentosus, idiopathic guttate hypomelanosis, fordyce spots can also give rise to harmless white spots and patches.

Skin discoloration with dark/brown spots and patches

Dark/brown spots are due to hyperpigmentation caused by excessive production and deposition of mealnin pigment by melanocytes (pigment producing cells).

Prolonged sun exposure, hormonal imbalances, diabetes, melasma, pregnancy and old age may be some of the reasons for this condition.

Discoloration with redness

Reddening of the epidermis may be caused by infections, inflammation, rash, eczema, sunburn and dermatitis.

Hypervascularization of the certain areas of the dermis also can cause reddening.

Skin discoloration with blueness

The dermis becomes bluish when the blood is low in oxygen (cyanosis).

This can be observed in young children when the weather gets very cold.

This is due to slowing down of circulation in the blood vessels in the dermis.

In case of lung infections and impaired heart functions the oxygen level may go down resulting in blueness of epidermis.
Discoloration with yellow tint
In case of jaundice, mucus membranes, eyes and epidermis become yellow due to the presence of bilirubin.

Bilirubin is the yellow pigment (a product of RBC break-down) present in bile and when the bile is obstructed from reaching the gastrointestinal canal, it gets into circulation.

Bronze or slate-grey pigmentation
When there is iron overload or iron poisoning the epidermis may appear slate-grey or bronze in color.

This is a grave situation and necessary medical treatments must be given to avoid greater damages.

Orange skin discoloration

When epidermis accumulates carotenoids, it appears yellowish orange in color.

Carotenoderma occurs when fruits and vegetales containing carotene is consumed in excess.

This is a harmless condition resolving by itself when the carotene consumption is brought down.

Related topics on skin care:
Whitening and fairness
White discoloration
Normal reddened condition
Dark pigmentation
Yellow pigmentation
Reddishness
Blueness
Pictures
Types of skin discoloration (current topic)

Permanent skin lightening - Lasting skin lightening

2010-11-04T16:02:00.009+05:30

Permanent skin lightening → Olive oil for skin → Causes of oily skin

Permanent skin lightening can only be achieved by destruction of melanin-pigment producing melanocyte cells.

Skin fairness and lightening is possible now as so much of research work is focused on getting permanent fair complexion.

However, most of the skin lightening and fairness methods are semi-permanent and fairer complexion lasts as long as you keep using the products or keep undergoing the maintenance treatments.

Once you stop the products or the treatment, you are back to square one, as genetically controlled melanin production takes over.

There are two aspects of skin pigmentation and one of them is hereditary factor which is a permanent programme.

Genes have the permanent instructions about the amount of melanin our skin should produce leading to its darkening or lightening.

Another pigmentation process is by various biological reactions of the body to exogenous and endogenous factors.

Factors like sun exposure (tanning), chemical exposure (hypo and hyper-pigmentation), free radicals (melasma and dark spots), aging (freckles, liver spots or age spots) and idiopathic (with unknown reason) permanent skin lightening or darkening cause blemishes to appear on our skin spoiling the evenness in complexion.

Various homemade as well as chemical remedies are available to achieve fairness and lightening and protect skin from permanent damage due to prolonged neglect of the adverse conditions.

However continuous treatment, protection from sun exposure and sunscreen are essential for extending the skin lightening effects achieved.

Can homemade recipes give permanent skin lightening?

Many of the homemade skin lightening recipes no doubt improve fairness and make you look a few shades fairer.

Many traditional tips for fair complexion are effective with years of experience and experimentation behind them.

Many of the recipes are scientifically tested and are scientifically explainable.

However, if permanent skin lightening is claimed, we have to take with a pinch of salt.

Enhancing exfoliation and free-radical control are the two main actions of most of the remedies.

Skin growth is a continuous process and the outer dead epidermis is shed by desquamation.

This dead debris holds lots of melanin pigment and if it is removed by exfoliating ingredients the inner layers of epidermis show up with lightening in color.

Melanin pigment production itself is an oxidative process. When there is higher presence of free radicals, as during sun exposure, the melanin production is speeded up, which darkens the skin.

Most of the skin lightening ingredients have antioxidant properties.

Because of their antioxidant properties the oxidative processes in the skin are reduced, cutting down the pigment production.

Many ingredients like lemon juice, tomato juice, honey, vitamin C, vitamin A, vitamin E, oatmeal and yogurt show either antioxidant property or exfoliation property; many have both the properties.

Are results of skin lightening treatments permanent?

There are many chemicals available for fairness and lightening and except for one or two of them permanent results cannot be realised.

Hydroquinone, glutathione, arbutin, tretinoin, glycolic acid and kojic acid are some of them.

They show good results and are especially useful for treating acne scars, freckles, liver spots etc.

They are the main ingredients in most of the cosmetic products.

Many of these cosmetic procedures inhibit the production of the enzyme tryosinase, which in turn inhibits the production of melanin pigment.

After these treatments, maintenance application must be carried on to retain the skin lightening achieved.

However, monobenzone which should be used under the advice of a doctor gives permanent lightening.

Monobenzone in permanent skin lightening (only for vitiligo)

Monobenzone (C₁₃H₁₂O₂) is the monobenzyl ether of hydroquinone which is a tasteless, white crystalline powder and goes by the popular brand name Benoquin (20% monobenzone).

Monobenzone has been in use for permanent skin lightening in treatment of vitiligo (an autoimmune disease wherein the body's own immune system kills the melanocytes).

The exact way monobenzone works in still not clear and in some cases its action may not be predictable.

Monobenzone appears to cause permanent destruction of melanocytes and give depigmentation.

When monobenzone treated skin is studied under microscope it shows, very similar to vitiligo affected one, being devoid of melanocytes.

Monobenzone is a potent depigmenting agent and is medically contraindicated in all conditions except in extensive disseminated vitiligo (leukoderma) wherein more than 50% area suffered pigment loss.

Monobenzone, being called monobenzyl ether of hydroquinone, should not be taken as a substitute to hydroquinone as both the drugs have fundamentally different ways of actions in depigmenting.

NEVER repeat NEVER use monobenzone as fairness cream or to remove scars and age spots as the application will have irreversible permanent devastating effects on the system.

Side effects in monobenzone permanent skin lightening

Normal areas, which are distant from areas of application, may get depigmented (satellite depigmentation) in a irregular manner and the depigmentation may be permanent.

In some persons monobenzone has been found to cause dermatitis and burning sensation.

In some cases vesicular dermatitis was seen only on the normal pigmented skin.

In some cases monobenzone was found to cause acquired conjunctival melanosis.

Family members coming into contact with treated area of skin soon after monozone application have the risk of getting their normal skin depigmented.

The treated area acquires permanent reddish pink color similar to albinism and becomes photo-sensitive.

In some persons, follicular melanocytes may survive and produce resistant pigment spots

Precautions in monobenzone permanent skin lightening

Monobenzone cream is only for external use and it should be kept out of reach of children.

A physician or Poison Control Center must be immediately contacted in case of accidental application or ingestion.

Great caution must be taken when used on pregnant women and nursing mothers as its effects on fetus and newborn is not known.

Long term studies on permanent impairment of fertility, mutagenesis and carcinogenesis are yet to be concluded.

Its safety in young children is yet to be established.

Prolonged sun-exposure of areas of skin treated with monobenzone can get sun burnt and sufficient protective precaution with sunscreen must be taken
Related topics on permanent skin lightening:
Glutathione for bleaching and fairness
pros and cons of bleeching
Discoloration and hyper-pigmentation problems
Treatments and methods
Homemade tips
Permanent skin lightening (current topic)

Skin care - Skin whitening tips - Homemade skin whitening

2010-11-02T06:20:00.012+05:30

Homemade skin whitening tips → Homemade skin moisturizer recipe → Oily skin tips

Done as a daily routine homemade skin whitening tips can lighten your complexion.

Skin whitening is a procedure to eliminate or reduce freckles, age spots, acne scars, liver spots and other discolorations and hyperpigmentations.

With the use of homemade ingredients fairer complexion can be achieved by following the tips given below.

Homemade skin whitening tips: use of lemon juice

Lemon juice has been the traditional remedy for treating acne scars and freckles.

Citric acid present in the lemon juice is acidic and it helps in exfoliation and stimulates cell growth.

Freshly squeezed out lemon juice can be applied on the skin with cotton ball and allowed to dry for a few minutes and then rinsed with lukewarm water.

Lemon juice can also be mixed with wheat flour, gram flour or oat meal and applied as a thin layer to be washed after 30 minutes.

Homemade skin whitening tips: use of tomato juice
Tomato juice is rich in antioxidants like vitamin C, vitamin A, carotene, anthocyanin and lycopene.

Antioxidants neutralize the free radicals formed due to sun exposure and other internal metabolic processes.

Free radicals stimulate the melanin production process.

With reduced free radical activity less melanin is produced leading to fairness.

Fresh tomato juice can be applied as such on the skin and allowed to dry for 30 minutes and washed off with lukewarm water (tips: ripe fruits are best for homemade whitening).

Alternatively, tomato juice can be blended with one or more of the ingredients and applied.

Homemade skin whitening tips: use of orange juice
Similar to lemon juice orange juice also contains citric acid and it is a good exfoliating agent.

Orange juice can be applied as such or blended with other fairness ingredients.

Homemade skin whitening tips: use of lactic acid

Lactic acid is produced by the lactobacillus by curdling milk.

Yogurt and butter milk contain lactic acid.

Lactic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) having skin penetrating ability.

Lactic acid helps in skin desquamation and exfoliation and bring out fairness by exposing the new cells.

Take fluid part of the sour yogurt (tips: sourer, higher the concentration of lactic acid) and dab on the skin with cotton wool. You can leave it for 15-30 minutes and then wash.

This sour butter milk can be used along with any of the fairness ingredients given here.

Homemade skin whitening tips: use of papaya pulp
Apart from antioxidants papaya pulp contains papain enzyme.

Application of the papaya pulp for about 15 minutes helps exfoliation and also suppresses melanin pigment production.

Skin and dice papaya fruit (tips: semi-ripe best) and prepare its pulp in a blender.

You can directly apply it on the skin or add to one or two of the fairness ingredients.

Homemade skin whitening tips: use of honey
Honey contains alpha hydroxy acids and helps in loosening of dead cells and their exfoliation.

Apart from its known properties as humectant and moisturizer, when reacting with moisture on the skin mild hydrogen peroxide is formed which is an efficient bleaching agent.

The antioxidants in honey restrict the oxidative activity required for melanin synthesis.

Honey can be applied as such or blended with a lemon juice for application.

Homemade whitening tips: use of ground orange peels

Orange peel powder has been a traditional ingredient in fairness products.

Orange peel contains antioxidants and essential oils useful in fairness treatment.

Dry orange peels and grind them into powder or you can go in for ready-made orange peel powder from your cosmetic shop.

Orange peel powder can be mixed with any of the above mentioned fruit juices and water and applied on the skin.

Homemade skin whitening tips: use of gram flour
Gram flour is a traditional fairness ingredient in many beauty recipes from India.

Gram flour is a skin lightener and functions well as a scrubber and exfoliating agent.

Gram flour is also helpful for oily skin, removing excess sebum.

Gram flour can be applied after mixing it well with water, rose water or fruit juices.

Homemade skin whitening tips: use of wheat flour
Whole wheat flour is useful as a scrub and exfoliating agent.

Add wheat flour to milk or yogurt and prepare a paste and apply gently with circular movement.

Dead epidermis debris will get removed by this homemade whitening preparation and fresh glowing complexion will be revealed.

Homemade skin whitening tips: use of oatmeal

Oatmeal can be applied along with milk or curd. Leave the layer for about 30 minutes to dry.

Then wash with lukewarm water and dab to dry. This homemade whitening treatment brightens the complexion.

Functioning as a gentle scrub oatmeal removes dead cells and brings fairness and glow.

Homemade skin whitening tips: hydrogen peroxide solution
hydrogen peroxide is a bleaching agent and what we get over the counter is a mild 3 to 3.5 percent solution. (tips: use only 3%)

It is safe for use in homemade skin whitening preparations and it can be applied with cotton ball on the area to be lightened.

Hydrogen peroxide loosens and removes cell debris, adding brightness to the epidermis.

Homemade skin whitening tips: use of almonds
Almond is rich in antioxidants and essential oils.

The antioxidant activity helps in exfoliation and suppression of pigment production.

Soak almond overnight and grind them into a fine paste. This can be applied as such or blended with lemon juice.(tips: avoid bitter almond)

Homemade skin whitening tips: use of vitamin A

Vitamin A is a potent antioxidant and helps in acne treatment.

The antioxidant activity of vitamin A helps in suppression of pigment production.

You can make homemade vitamin A whitening blend in the following manner.

Take a vitamin A softgel and squeeze and mix the content with one table spoon of olive oil.

Apply the blend and leave it for 30 minutes and wash with lukewarm water to remove the excess oil.

Homemade skin whitening tips: use of vitamin C
Vitamin C is again a potent antioxidant and helps in slowing down melanin production.

Vitamin C being water soluble can be dissolved in clean water (100 mg in 20 ml) and the homemade whitening blend can be applied with cotton ball.

After 30 minutes, face may be washed and a moisturizer may be applied.

Homemade skin whitening tips: use of vitamin E
Vitamin E is an potent antioxidant and helpful in suppressing pigment production.

Vitamin E blend can be homemade and used for whitening and fairness in the similar way as vitamin A tips, blending it with olive oil.

As these whitening tips will work differently for different types of skin, the homemade blends may be tried one after another for a month to pick out the best blend for your skin type.

Prepare fresh blends and discontinue application if there is any irritation.

Related topics on skin care:
Glutathione
pros and cons of the procedure
Permanent methods and fairness tips
Discoloration problems and hyperpigmentation
Treatments and methods
Homemade skin whitening tips (current topic)

Skin care - Skin whitening treatment - Skin whitening methods

2010-10-31T12:24:00.012+05:30

Skin whitening treatment - Skin whitening methods → Glutathione (GSH) for skin whitening → Glutathione health benefits → Fordyce spots

Skin whitening treatment evens out the color variation and improves fairness.

Skin whitening is a cosmetic treatment for achieving lighter, brighter and fairer tone especially when there are some uneven pigmentation problems existing.
This cosmetic procedure in highly helpful in removing acne marks, freckles, liver spots, age spots, melasma and hyperpigmentation and also for attaining general skin fairness, brightness and glow.

Topical skin whitening treatment

There are many topical applications available with single or combination of ingredients. A brief description of the skin brightening agents is given below.

Mercury compounds

Though mercury compounds were used in fairness creams, their use is now banned in most of the countries due to their systemic absorption and tissue accumulation.

Hydroquinone

Hydroquinone (C₆H₄(OH)₂) containing topical preparations are used for suppressing melanin production.

Howver this chemical is now banned in European Union due to possible cancer risk.

Glutathione

Glutathione (C₁₀H₁₇N₃O₆S) is being used singly or in combination with other medicines in skin fairness treatment.

Glutathione, which is also a potent endogenous antioxidant, interferes with melanin synthesis and gives fairness.

Arbutin

Arbutin (C₁₂H₁₆O₇ - hydroquinone-beta-D-glucoside) is a widely available natural melanin synthesis inhibitor.

It is present in leaves of mulberry, cranberry, blueberry, white mulberry, paper mulberry and bearberry and also present in many types of pears.

Many topical skin whitening treatment products contain this as one of the ingredients.

Tretinoin

Tretinoin (C₂₀H₂₈O₂ - all-trans retinoic acid), a form of vitamin A, has wide topical uses like acne control, stretch mark removal and wrinkle removal.

Tretinoin has been successfully used in combination with other products in skin whitening treatment.

Vitamin C

Various forms of vitamin C (C₆H₈O₆) like ascorbyl glucosamine, L-ascorbic acid, Magnesium ascorbyl phosphate and ascorbic acid are used in topical preparation for skin fairness treatment.

Vitamin C being a potent antioxidant removes the free radicals which induce the production of melanin.

Azelaic acid

Azelaic acid (C₉H₁₆O₄) is present in cereals like barley, rye and wheat.

It is found to be effective on acne and discoloration.

Azelaic acid also shows skin whitening properties and used in fairness treatment.

Glycolic acid

Glycolic acid (C₂H₄O₃), an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), is an effective skin whitening agent.

It is also used in glycolic acid peels for removing old dark epidermal debris, bringing out the glowing inner epidermis.

Lactic acid

Lactic acid (C₃H₆O₃), an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), is similar to glycolic acid and apart from being used in peels, it is found to be useful in skin whitening treatment.

Kojic acid

Kojic acid (C₆H₆O₄), a by-product of rice fermentation, is an effective inhibitor of melanin production.

Kojic acid as such is unstable in cosmetic preparations and instead of this, kojic dipalmitate is used which is equally efficient whitening treatment.

Skin whitening treatment with systemic administration

Apart from topical application, systemic administration (both enteral and parenteral) of medicines can be done in skin treatment.

The ideal candidates for oral supplementation are glutathione and glutathione precursors like N-acetylcysteine (NAC).

As glutathione is not well absorbed in the intestine, it is taken along with vitamin C in high doses to keep it in its reduced state for better absorption.

Whey proteins, S-adenosylmethionine, alpha lipoic acid, melatonin and silymarin have been found to boost the glutathione levels in the body.

Glutathione IV injections are available (though costly) which are very effective in raising glutathione plasma levels and help in improving fairness.

Skin whitening treatment by permanent depigmentation

This method is especially useful for persons with large patches of vitiligo.

They can even out their skin color with the use of chemicals like monobenzone and mequinol.

Permanent depigmentation and destruction of melanocytes may be caused by monobenzone (C₁₃H₁₂O₂).

As a topical medicine, monobenzone treatment is used for permanently depigmenting and whitening normal skin surrounding vitiligo lesions in patients with greater than 50 percent of body surface area covered by vitiligo.

Mequinol (C₇H₈O₂), a monomethyl ether of hydroquinone, is used in combination with tretinoin (C₂₀H₂₈O₂) in the therapy of age spots and liver spots.

In higher doses mequinol is used as a topical application for medical depigmentation in persons with more than 50% vitiligo cover.

Laser skin whitening treatment

Intense pulsed light, nonablative lasers and ablative lasers are used especially in the case of melasma hyperpigmentation.

Dermal melasma is generally less responsive to treatment and Fraxel laser provide improvement to most of the patients.

The results of laser therapy are not consistent and in some cases result in hypopigmentation or hyperpigmentation of the treated area, especially in people with darker skin tones.

Skin whitening treatment with cryosurgery

Cryosurgery (cryotherapy) is the selective application of extreme cold for controlled destruction of abnormal or diseased tissue.

Generally liquid nitrogen is used in cryosurgery for controlled destruction of epidermal cells and melanocytes.

This causes the regeneration of the epidermis, pushing out the excess melanin which peels off in a few days during desquamation.

After this whitening treatment, fresh skin cells are produced which have reduced melanin and give a fairer and brighter appearance. Cryosurgery is very useful in treating freckles.

The effects in all these skin whitening treatment methods are gradual and progressive.

Exposure to sunlight must be strictly avoided and broad spectrum sunscreens must be used after the treatment, as ultraviolet light-A, Ultraviolet light-B and visible sunlight will induce melanin production and repigmentation.

Related topics on skin care:
Glutathione for skin whitening
Pros and cons of the procedure
Permanent methods for fairness
Natural tips and remedies for fairness
Discoloration problems and hyperpigmentation
Skin whitening treatment and methods (current topic)

Skin care - Glutathione for skin - Glutathione skin whitening

2010-10-30T07:23:00.015+05:30

Glutathione (GSH) for skin whitening → Glutathione health benefits → Fordyce spots

Glutathione (C₁₀H₁₇N₃O₆S), an endogenous antioxidant, inhibits the synthesis and agglutination of melanin.

Glutathione is a tripeptide nutrient with antioxidant functions.

L-glutathione can be synthesised from the amino acids glycine, L-glutamic acid and L-cysteine.

GSH exists in two forms namely, glutathione disulfide (GSSG) and glutathione (GSH) with former being the the common form.

The presence of GSH induces the production of pheomelanin (light colored pigment for skin whitening and fairness) and suppresses the production of eumelanin (darker brown/black pigment).

Function of glutathione in skin whitening

Being an ingredient of skin whitening products it inhibits melanin synthesis by interrupting L-DOPA's ability to bind to enzyme Tyrosinase (monophenol monooxygenase).

Glutathione induces inhibition of tyrosinase glycosylation. This blocks the maturation as well as transfer of tyrosinase from Golgi-endoplasmic reticulum-lysosome (GERL) - coated vesicles to the premelanosome.

GSH is believed to direct tyrosinase inactivation within the enzyme's active site by chelating copper.

As glutathione takes part in the conversion of dopaquinone to pheomelanin, it mediates in the transformation of eumelanogenesis to pheomelanogenesis.

Its antioxidant properties help to neutralyze the peroxides and free radicals which induce melanin synthesis.

GSH modulates the capabilities of melanocytotoxic agents in depigmentation and whitening.

Advantages of glutathione skin whitening

Unlike other fairness products which can only be applied topically, GSH, apart from topical use ,can be taken orally or injected and it can work from inside the body.

In both topical and internal use it has been found to lighten, even tone, remove hyperpigmentation, freckles, age spots, acne scars and dark patches and give a glow to skin.

Simultaneously, being an endogenous antioxidant, it protects the epidermis from oxidative damages, age related disorders and sun exposure.

As we age, it is found that our plasma levels of glutathione drops steeply bringing about age related ailments like age spots and freckles.

Unlike other fairness and whitening products, which can be harmful or allergic, GSH has been found to be safe in both topical and oral use.

Methods for increasing glutathione levels for skin whitening

GSH supplements are not well absorbed by the gastrointestinal tract and it not possible to increase the circulating levels by this route.

A large dose of 3 gms also failed to increase the circulating glutathione to clinically beneficial levels and had no beneficial epidermis whitening results.

When taken along with high doses of vitamin C, the GSH is maintained in its absorbable reduced form and to some extent is absorbed and utilized.

However, circulating levels of Glutathione can be increased by supplementation with GSH precursors.

N-acetylcysteine (NAC), available as drug and supplement can increase the levels within the cells.

Whey protein and S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe) are also found to increase the inter cellular GSH content of the cells.

Alpha lipoic acid, melatonin and silymarin have been found to replendish plasma levels.

Glutathione IV injections are available, but are priced high.

Injections are better and more effective compared to taking GSH orally and faster results of fairness and increased whitening are achieved.

Time taken for visible glutathione skin whitening

The process of achieving fairness is gradual taking a few months.

Further GSH whitening dependant on many factors and the initial color of the skin.

Approximate time frame for different types of skin colors and tones is as follows.

Light to medium color skin	2 to 4 months
Dark brown color	4 to 7 months
Very dark	8 to 12 months
Black	12 to 24 months

Other functions of glutathione

Apart from skin whitening function, being an endogenous antioxidant, GSH prevents oxidative damages to cell components by neutralizing reactive oxygen species like peroxides and other free radicals.

Glutathione also helps in maintaining exogenous antioxidants like vitamin C and E in their reduced forms for their antioxidant activity required for whitening.

GSH is known to have fundamental role in metabolism and biochemical reactions taking place in our cells.

Most of the systems of the body like immune system, respiratory system and gastrointestinal system and nervous system are negatively affected by the low levels of glutathione in blood plasma and cell content.

To sum up, glutathione is a safe product with scientifically proven skin whitening properties.
Related topics on skin care:
GSH Whitening/lightening advantages
Treatments for fairness
Permanent methods for fairness
Natural tips for fairness
Discoloration problems and hyperpigmentation
Glutathione (GSH) for skin whitening (current topic)

Skin care - Skin whitening - Pros and cons of skin whitening

2010-10-29T09:45:00.016+05:30

Skin whitening → Skin sensitive to touch → Fordyce spots

Skin whitening is achieved by cosmetic procedures which decrease melanin pigment production.

Skin color mainly depends on the amount of the pigment, melanin, produced and deposited by its epidermis layer.

Though the melanin production and deposition is primarily controlled by genetic inheritance, it is also induced by exposure to sun light.

Many other external factors also can affect the pigment production, with decreased production leading to whitening of skin and increased production leading to darkening.

What is skin whitening?

Skin whitening, lightening or bleaching are terms used to denote the various cosmetic methods used to achieve fair color.

Tyrosinase (monophenol monooxygenase) is an enzyme produced both by plants and animals.

This copper containing enzyme catalyses the oxidation of phenols.

From the phenols like tyrosine, melanin and other pigments are produced by the oxidative catalysis by tryosinase.

Many cosmetic procedures inhibit the production of tryosinase enzyme which in turn inhibits the production of melanin giving fairer color.

Skin whitening methods

Inhibiting tryosinase enzyme

There are many methods for achieving fair color and most of them are aimed at inhibiting Tyrosinase (monophenol monooxygenase) enzyme to cut back melanin production.

Many topical applications use a combination of tryosinase inhibiting chemicals and sun protective ingredients.

L-glutathione, when taken orally, works from inside inhibiting tryosinase.

Melanocyte destruction

There are certain depigmentation agents like monobenzone which destroy the melanocytes, achieving permanent results.

Cryosurgery and laser treatments aims at controlled destruction of epidermis cells.

These methods can be applied to entire epidermis with normal color or specific areas of hyperpigmentation.

Skin whitening products

Many of the fairness products come as topical creams, gels, soaps, chemical peels or lotions.

Ammoniated mercury or mercury(II) chloride were once widely used in skin whitening topical creams; however the use of mercury products were banned due to their potent adverse effects on human body.

Hydroquinone is one of the widely used bleaching chemical in topical creams.

As it was found to cause leukemia in some animals, it was banned in European Union for cosmetic use.

Arbutin ( hydroquinone-beta-D-glucoside) is also found to be potent fairness chemical, especially in its pure forms ((alpha-arbutin, beta-arbutin, and deoxy-arbutin).

Arbutin is avialable in extracts of mulberry (Morus bombycis), paper mulberry (Broussonetia papyrifera), white mulberry (Morus alba), bearberry (Uva ursi) and Mitracarpus scaber extract.

Azelaic acid, Tretinoin, alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), kojic acid, Glycyrrhetinic acid and vitamin C are the other ingredients in the skin fairness products.

Ellagic acid, ferulic acid and vitamin E also help in getting fairer when taken orally.

Skin whitening advantages

In persons affected by hyperpigmentation (solar lentigenes, melasma or chloasma), uneven pigmentation, freckling and dark spots skin fairness treatment can be of great help particularly boosting their self-confidence.

Many formulations of natural origins are being produced and marketed which are found to be harmless and are found to be effective.

Skin whitening: possible harmful effects

Many products use active ingredients like hydroquinone and mercuric chloride, which have been found to be potentially harmful and there use is restricted in cosmetic products in many advanced countries.

However these harmful products are still being produced and marketed in developing countries posing many health risks like cancer.

Related topics on skin whitening
Glutathione
Treatments
Permanent methods
Natural tips
Discoloration problems
Skin whitening pros and cons (current topic)

Skin care: Olive oil hair care -Olive oil for hair growth

2010-09-07T18:49:00.012+05:30

Types of olive oil → Olive oil for hair care and growth → Olive oil moisturizer → Beauty tips
Olive oil is the best solution for getting glossy, silky, soft, strong, long, dense, elastic, frizz-free, dandruff-free, lice-free hair with good growth. Olive extract is a nourisher, conditioner and moisturizer promoting its growth and care.
Proper use of olive oil for good hair care and growth involves three stages.

The scalp must be periodically cleaned thoroughly to remove dirt, skin debris and the excess sebum to stem hair loss and promote its health.

Daily care of scalp skin is necessary to have healthy hair. It must be combed and massaged to improve its blood circulation.

Understanding the structure of hair helps in its care and growth using olive oil

To have healthy hair, care of scalp skin is a must as all the living parts of it like follicles, roots and sebaceous glands are located beneath the scalp skin.

Follicles are the roots wherein cells are packed to form the shaft. The sebaceous glands on the scalp produce sebum which is a natural moisturizer and conditioner to control hair loss.

Hair shaft The actual shaft which emerges out of the skin has no living process. The shaft contains the (1) inner core medulla containing loose cells and air space, (2) the cortex containing tightly packed keratin and (3) the outer cuticle containing cells arranged in single layer like shingles of roof.

Olive oil for hair care, growth, nourishment and scalp massage

Mild anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties of olive help in the prevention of diseases of the scalp skin and helps in its care. Olive oil is rich in vitamin E and other antioxidants.

Antioxidants protect the follicles from the oxidative damages caused by free radicals promoting growth and controlling loss.

It nourishes the shaft at its formation stage at the follicles and its health and growth is improved and loss is reduced.

Taking care by massaging the scalp with olive oil apart from facilitating its penetration also helps in the improvement of the circulation to the scalp skin.

Improved circulation means more nutrients for the growth of shaft at the root level. This controls its fall, loss, premature graying and poor texture.

Olive oil as moisturizer and conditioner for care and growth of hair

It is very effective moisturizer and conditioner promoting growth and controlling loss. It penetrates the shaft making it soft and supple.

Application of olive oil locks in the moisture and stops it from getting brittle and dry and its loss.

It is a good protection for the cuticle and its use for stopping split ends gives good care results, growth preventing loss.

Frequent combing and use of colours and dyes may take away cuticle and cause split ends.

Olive oil for hair protection from dandruff and lice and its care and health

Regular application to the scalp and massaging gets rid off dandruff and promotes growth.

Olive extract application on the scalp discourages lice. They cannot thrive in this medium and environment.

Application of olive oil on the scalp followed by combing for lice make the lice to loose grip and fall out.

Winter dry skin - Why do we get dry skin in winter?

2010-09-07T17:48:00.007+05:30

Moisturizers → Winter dry skin → Winter skin care tips

In winter, dry skin is caused due to loss of moisture from epidermis layer.

Winter heralds festivity, snow and sports for many of us. However for many others it means dry, scaly and itchy skin with dull and faded appearance.

Understanding the environmental changes and the related changes on our skin can help us in tackling dry conditions.

Winter dry skin: Significance of relative humidity

Sun heats up the air and water bodies around us and water evaporates into atmosphere increasing its water content.

This percentage of water content in atmosphere is called relative humidity.

The ideal level of humidity for human skin to feel comfortable and be healthy is between 30% to 60%.

Our epidermis is tuned to produce sweat during hot weather to cool the body.

When the sweat evaporates it takes away heat from the epidermis surface due to 'principle of latent heat of vaporization' and making it dry.

The change is endothermic, meaning that the sweat (water) absorbs energy (heat) from surroundings (skin) for going from liquid to gas state.

In hot summer if we are surrounded by big water bodies or sea the relative humidity of air goes beyond 60% and sometimes reaching even 100%.

In such conditions, the evaporation from epidermis surface is greatly reduced as sweat does not evaporate as the air is already loaded with high levels of moisture.

This causes great discomfort as our body does not cool properly. However the sweating and high activity of the sebaceous glands keep the epidermis sufficiently hydrated.

Low winter humidity causes dry skin

In winter the reverse effects are true. The sweat glands and also sebaceous gland activity is greatly reduced in cold weather. Skin pores are also closed due to cold weather.

As the air is cold and as the water bodies are not warmed up the relative humidity drops down and air becomes dry.

This cold air picks up moisture from the surfaces it comes into contact.If we are exposed to such draught of cold wind the moisture from epidermis layer gets removed causing flaking and scaling.

The same dehydrated air also occupy our house in cold weather. If we use heaters in the house the air further dehydrates our skin.

Further the fluctuation from cold air outdoors to dehydrated warm air inside the home takes away further moisture from epidermis.

Effects of winter dry air on stratum corneum layer of skin

Those having chronic dry skin will find great discomfort, itching and dermatitis during these winter conditions.

Persons with normal or oily epidermis also get into spells of dehydrated conditions in cold weather due to dehydration of the top most layer, stratum corneum.

With lower temperatures skin turn over is reduced. The moisture trapped between the lipid stacks of stratum corneum layer get dehydrated due to low humidity of the air.

Further there is no topping up of the moisture or lipids by the sweat and oil glands.

So the stratum corneum structure gets affected and so also is desquamation process resulting in flaking and scaling.

The regions of the epidermis having less concentration of sebaceous glands are the most affected.

Winter dry skin: tackling the problem

The dehydrated skin problem can be tackled effectively by following certain basic principles like not getting exposed to cold wild, using humidifier in living area and copious use of moisturizer etc.

There is no need to live with painful, scaly, winter dry skin and there are many ways to alleviate the situation. Read the related post on 'tips for winter dry skin care" for further information.

Skin care - Fordyce spots granules - disease - lips - genitalia - areolae

2010-08-31T16:02:00.007+05:30

Fordyce spots granules → Treatment and cure of fordyce spots disease → White bumps on skin, lips, fingernails, teeth, tonsils and genitalia → Nevus pigmentosus

Fordyce spots are sebaceous glands without connection to hair follicles.

What are fordyce spots (granules)?

They are benign, painless, small, pale, white or whitish yellow, raised bumps of 1-3 mm diameter appearing on the the vermilion region of lips, inside of the mouth, aureole or genital area(not a disease).

These granules are named after John Addison Fordyce, an American dermatologist.

Fordyce spots are sebaceous glands. Sebum may be discharged from them.

Sebaceous glands are normally connected to the pore in hair follicle and lie in the skin without showing bumps.

However these fordyce granules are atopic glands and have no connection to hair follicles and open out directly.

These granules are out of place glands (ectopic) as instead of being at level with skin, they appear as small raised bumps usually on lips, nipple, penis and labia.

Fordyce spots on the lips (enlarge)

Fordyce spots disease prevalence

Though this granules condition is seen in both men and women, it is very common in men and about 80% of them have it.

The incidence is found to get reduced with old age, as is the case with other sebaceous glands.

fordyce glands are found in newborns and in the children though they are present they are dormant.

These granules become active after reaching of puberty as in the case of other sebaceous glands in the body.

It is believed that there is a genetic link to this 'disease'.

It is a idiopathic disease condition arising from unknown or an obscure cause or arising spontaneously.

Fordyce granules is not a contagious disease or caused by pathogens.

However if the lesions are squeezed and skin gets damaged, infection and disease of skin may result.

They can appear as single lesion or as a cluster on the affected area.

Though no particular treatment is necessary, the fordyce bumps are of cosmetic concern.

Men and women are known to go into depression fearing that, it may be some form of sexually transmitted disease (STD), genital warts or cancer.

Sometimes fordyce spots are mistaken for pearly penile papules (Hirsuties papillaris genitalis). However pearly penile papules have nothing to do with sebaceous glands and are just skin overgrowth and are benign.

They spoil the aesthetic appearance of the affected persons if they occur on lips or genitalia.

Fordyce spots granules disease have been successfully treated with topical application, laser therapy and electro-desiccation.

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Skin care - Treatment for dry skin

2010-08-27T12:38:00.022+05:30

Moisturizers for dry skin → Treatment for dry skin
For dry skin treatment, the basic problems in hydration of stratum corneum layer of epidermis and in the production of sebum have to be addressed.

The process of hydration makes the stratum corneum layer hold sufficient water to make the skin supple and healthy.

The sebum produced by the sebaceous glands also fills up the intercellular spaces within the stratum corneum and adds to the smoothness and glide of the epidermis.

Any disturbance or damage to the above processes leads to dry conditions (xeroderma) requiring treatment and remedial measures.

Treatment for dry skin: eat balanced food

When any nutritional deficiency is experienced by the body, sebum production, stratum corneum hydration and desquamation are also affected.

Hence treatment for dry skin starts with nutritious food. Eat food rich in proteins of both plant and animal origin.

Your food must contain complete protein (containing all the essential amino acids).

This can be achieved by adding some quantities of animal sources of proteins like egg, fish, dairy products and lean meat to your diet.

For treatment of dry skin avoid taking excess of sugars, sugar preparations, soft drinks, sweets and other junk food.

Avoid saturated fats; include polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats moderately.

But your food must contain essential fatty acids, omega-6 fatty acid and omega-3 fatty acid (olive oil, fish and fish oil).

Take lots of fibrous food to avoid constipation, as toxins released by constipated material in bowl can cause dry skin and other problems requiring treatment.

Eat food rich in micro nutrients like dietary minerals and vitamins, as their deficiencies can cause xeroderma; take supplements if necessary.

Drink plenty of water to keep the epidermis hydrated. Keeping body cells sufficiently hydrated is the best treatment for xeroderma.

Up to one litre of safe drinking water is recommended for every 20kg of body weight per day.

For treatment of xeroderma, cut down on smoking and alcohol as both are found to aggravate the condition.

Nicotine and alcohol constrict capillaries in the skin and cut down its blood supply.

Caffeine and alcohol, having diuretic effect, remove water from the body and cause further problems in xeroderma condition.

Treatment for dry skin: protect from environmental factors

Protect your skin from long exposure to sun, strong winds, cold weather and rain as these situations can further disturb your natural protective layer and rob the remnants of moisture.

Sun exposure for a long duration dehydrates the stratum corneum and causes oxidative damage to epidermis.

Similarly avoid exposure to strong winds, hot winds and cold climate for longer duration as the water in the stratum corneum is very quickly lost into atmosphere.

If you are using air-conditioning or room heater, the enclosed air tends to become very dry. Install a room humidifier to protect your epidermis from further dehydration.

Getting drenched in rain or using swimming pool soaks up your skin initially and affecting the lipid stacking holding the moisture in stratum corneum. This leads to further drying up of epidermis.

For treatment of xerosis of hands and restoration of moisture use of gloves in kitchen chores and washing will help.

Treatment for dry skin: avoid hot or cold baths and showers

Take bath with lukewarm water; bathing with hot water or cold water further aggravates the dry skin condition.

Do not take bath more than once a day. Make the bath as short as possible.

Avoid using chlorinated water for bath as chlorine further removes moisture from epidermis.

Use only neutral pH bath soaps. Do not use alkaline soaps as they destroy the acid mantle of the skin.

Soon after bath apply moisturizers to hold back the moisture.

Treatment for dry skin: protect from harsh chemicals and cosmetics

May be your skin problem is due to cosmetics you use. Avoid cosmetics with chemicals as your problem may be due to some of the ingredients in them.

Only go in for cosmetics specially made for xeroderma and prefer cosmetics containing natural products and herbal products.

For treatment of xeroderma use cosmetics containing natural products like aloe vera, olive oil, honey, calendula, oatmeal, tea tree oil, beeswax, and almond oil, which are soothing and beneficial for the skin.

Treatment for dry skin: exfoliate, cleanse and moisturize

Cleanse your dry skin daily to remove make up, grime, scales and cell debris. This may be preferably done before going to bed.

For treatment of xeroderma, moisturize your skin every day before going to bed and also when you go out.

Exfoliate at least once a week as skin desquamation process remains disturbed in xeroderma condition.

Apply sunscreen to protect dry skin from further damage by UV rays in sunlight.

Treatment for dry skin : change life style

Have regular food habits as our body is naturally tuned for it.

Erratic food habits not only lead to dry epidermis but many other serious problems.

Sleep sufficiently, as much of the cellular repair process takes place during sleep.

For treatment of xerosis, exercise regularly to tone up the muscles and increase blood circulation.

Good blood flow repairs the damages to skin and increases the cell division for replacing the damaged stratum corneum with healthy and hydrated one.

Treatment for dry skin : treat skin ailments and other diseases

Do not neglect ailments like itch without visible rash, eczema, dermatitis, contact dermatitis, seborrhea, open sores and cuts from scratching and psoriasis.

Start immediate treatment by consulting a dermatologist to avoid further aggravation of dry condition.

For treatment of dry skin due to hypothyroidism take hormone supplements only under the advice of qualified health care consultant.

Treatment for diabetes cures the dry skin condition arising due to chronic diabetes.

For treatment of dry skin due to hereditary diseases like ichthyosis, consult a dermatologist who may prescribe medication to alleviate the condition.

Do not neglect xeroderma, as over a period the condition worsens with bleeding and infection of dry skin requiring prolonged treatment.

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Index

Skin care -Skin histology

2010-08-26T11:30:00.026+05:30

Skin anatomy → Histology

Skin histology shows two main regions namely epidermis and dermis.

Skin histology

Skin consists of squamous keratinised outer layer called epidermis and fibrous and elastic connective tissue called dermis. The dermis is connected to underlying subcutaneous connective tissue layer called hypodermis (primarily made up of adipose tissue).

Skin histology - image of layers

A. Epidermis layers B. Dermis layers C. Subcutis/ Hypodermis D. Blood and Lymph Vessels E. Stratum Germinativum 1.Hair Shaft 2.Stratum Corneum 3.Pigment Layer 4.Stratum Spinosum 5.Stratum Basale 6.Arrector Pili Muscle

7.Sebaceous Gland 8.Hair Follicle 9.Papilla of Hair 10.Nerve Fiber 11.Sweat Gland 12.Pacinian Corpuscle 13.Artery 14.Vein 15.Skin sensory Nerve ending (for touch) 16.Dermal Papillary 17.Sweat Pore

Skin histology: epidermal layers

The epidermal cells are arranged into four/five distinct layers.

Stratum basale layers Stratum basale, also known as stratum germinativum, contains dividing stem cells.
Stratum spinosum The cells have spiny projections in this layer which is made up of several cell layers.
Stratum granulosum Keratohyaline protein granules are found in cells in Stratum granulosum
Stratum Lucidum (histology image) Stratum Lucidum layer is found only in thick skin like palm.
Stratum corneum layers Stratum corneum layer consists of layers of dead cells (corneocytes) containing keratin.

Epidermal layers

Skin histology: dermal layers

Dermis is made up of two layers.

Papillary dermis Papillary dermis is the upper layer of dermis and is intertwined with ridges of epidermis.
Reticular dermis Reticular dermis is found beneath the papillary dermis and is packed densely with collagen fibers.

Skin histology - specialised cells of epidermis

Melanocytes Melanocytes are located in the bottom layer of epidermis (stratum basale) and melanin pigment is produced by them.
Langerhans cells Langerhans cells are dendritic cells (with immune function) with clear cytoplasm having antigen-presenting function.
Merkel cells Merkel cells are small cells associated with nerve endings, found in stratum basale, at the bottom of seat duct ridges.

Melanocytes

Skin histology: epidermal appendages

Hair follicles Hair follicles are tubular invaginations towards the bottom of which are processes of cell multiplication, growth and differentiation yielding a cylindrical column of dead cells with keratin deposit, emerging as hair.(see histology image) Small packs of smooth muscle cells (arrector pili) are connected to the connective tissue of each hair follicle.
Sebaceous glands Sebaceous glands are associated with hair follicles with function of secretion of sebum.
Skin histology: sweat glands a)Ecrine sweat glands Ecrine sweat glands are the common sweat glands and are distributed throughout the body. b)Apocrine sweat glands Apocrine sweat glands are found on circumanal region, axilla, external genitalia and areola.

Hair follicleSkin histology studies give us clear information in knowing its functions.

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Skin care - Skin sensitivity - Causes of skin sensitivity

2010-08-21T19:26:00.009+05:30

Skin senses → Causes of skin sensitivity → Sensitivity to touch → Tactile defensiveness

Skin sensitivity is not a type of skin, but is a condition wherein a person experiences blown up response of skin to certain stimuli.

A myriad of reactions are experienced by persons with skin sensitivity like, lesions, inflammations, bumps and raised spots, pustules and red and raw spots. They may also experience pain, stinging, numbness and burning sensations on the skin.

Causes of skin sensitivity

Sensitivity of skin is caused by many unknown factors. Among the known factors environment, food, race, age, gender and genetic pre-disposition play a greater part.

The list of possible causative agents (allergens) is exhaustive. A few of the causes are listed below:

Long exposure to sunlight
Long exposure to heat
Long exposure to cold and cold winds
High humidity
Very dry conditions
Heated dry air inside the house in winter
Salts from sea water and sea-breeze
Exposure to radiation and radiotherapy
Dust, dust mites and dander of pets
Chemicals in cosmetics
Chemicals added to food products and preservatives
Certain types of foods
Flowers and pollen
Medicines and formulations
Chemotherapy
Chemicals in paints and varnish
Formalin and formaldehyde present in products around us
Pesticides
Antibiotics
fungicides
plastics, polymers, resins, adhesives, lacquers and rubber
Contact with metals like, gold, silver, nickel, copper etc...
Alkali in the daily-use products
Acids in the daily-use products

Manifestations of skin sensitivity

The most common manifestation is eczema or dermatitis. This may lead to itchy lesions which may be dry, scaly and thickened or wet itchy lesions which may be raw and blistered.

Chronic photo dermatitis (chronic actinic dermatitis or photo eczema) is a condition wherein dermis reacts to sunlight or artificial light and becomes inflamed.

Photo-dermatitis (enlarge)

Contact dermatitis, a condition of sensitivity, causes lesion on contact with allergy causing substance (allergen) and is usually localised rash. Mostly surface regions (epidermis) is affected.
This causes itchy and burning inflammation which may take several days for resolving after the removal of the irritant.

Contact dermatitis around wound (enlarge)

Seborrhoeic dermatitis (seborrhoeic eczema) is skin condition caused by unknown factors. This results in red, itchy, scaly and sensitivity and mostly of the scalp and chest are affected. Soaps, detergents, hormones and genetic and environmental factors have been found to trigger the rash. In some cases involvement of the fungus Malassezia furfur has been noticed. Excessive intake of vitamin A in children has been associated with this rash. Deficiency of B vitamins like biotin, pyridoxine and riboflavin has been found to cause seborrhoeic dermatitis and sensitivity.

Seborrhoeic dermatitis (enlarge)

Atopic dermatitis is chronic, itchy, relapsing and non-contagious inflammation. Though the exact cause is not known factors like food, chemicals and environment have been found to trigger the rash or worsen the existing condition. The inner side skin of the elbows and knees is the most affected and experience sensitivity.

Atopic dermatitis (enlarge)

Migraine affected people have been found to suffer from severe skin pain (cutaneous allodynia). Areas of skin which are subjected slight pressure or scratch are sometimes found to give intense pain in persons with migraine.

Though skin sensitivity cannot be prevented steps can be taken to lessen the situation.

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image courtesy: Amras666, Eisfelder

Skin care - Skin hydration - Skin desquamation - Stratum corneum

2010-08-16T16:03:00.020+05:30

Skin hydration and skin desquamation are continuous processes in stratum corneum to keep it healthy.

Stratum corneum is the outermost layer of epidermis which in turn is the outer most part of skin.
Continuous hydration of the stratum corneum and continuous desquamation of dead skin cells is necessary to keep the skin soft, supple and smooth.
Any damage to these processes of hydration and desquamation results in scaly, rough and dry skin leading to many problems and diseases.

Skin hydration and stratum corneum

There is continuous production of cells at the lower most layer of epidermis, basal layer.
The maturing cells move towards the outer most layer of epidemis (stratum corneum).
Here the cells die (now called corneocytes) and losing cellular structures and nuclei start the hydration and desquamation processes.
These corneocytes are flat and hexagonal in shape and are filled with keratin proteins ,which are hygroscopic in nature.
These keratin proteins are enveloped by lipids and proteins.
The shape of the corneocyte cells as well as structural orientation of the keratin proteins gives strength, hydration and pliability to stratum corneum.
Depending upon the area, 10-30 tiers of corneocyte layers can be found on the skin.
Desmosomes are protein bridges which connect the corneocytes, the loss which can cause desquamation.
Stacked Lipid layers surround the corneocyte extra cellular spaces.
The resultant stratum corneum structure of skin, functions as a natural physical and water-retaining cover helping skin hydration which is vital for desquamation.

Stratum corneum breakdown and skin hydration

Simultaneously during the movement of viable cells towards stratum corneum, proteins present in granular cell layer clump to form granules and get filled by filaggrin protein.
Keratin proteins form complexes with filaggrin proteins and resist proteolytic breakdown.
On reaching stratum corneum, enzymes breakdown filaggrin-keratin complex, for skin hydration and desquamation, with keratin remaining on the inside of the corneocytes and filaggrin occupying the outside.
When water content of the stratum corneum decreases, specific enzymes, proteolytic in nature, are released to breakdown filaggrin to its basic components, amino acids.
The amino acids along with salts, urea and lactic acid present in the stratum corneum, form natural factors of moisturizing, by attracting and holding water by their hygroscopic action.

Skin desquamation and stratum corneum

Apart from skin hydration, desquamation is an important process going on in the stratum corneum for the health and smoothness of skin.
Desquamation is again an enzymatic process in which the inter-cellular protein bridges of desmosomes are dissolved for shedding of the outer most layer of stratum corneum.
With the loss of protein bonds between them, cornecytes separate and their desquamation takes place.
These proteolytic enzymes, located in inter-cellular space, function well in presence of good hydration of stratum corneum.
In absence of hydration, these enzymes of desquamation do not function resulting in dry, thickened and scaly epidermis.
If the balance between the production of corneocytes and desquamation is upset, as in the case of many skin diseases and conditions, dry scaly skin is caused due accumulation of dead cells on its surface.

Inter-cellular lipids in skin hydration and desquamation of stratum corneum

The inter-cellular lipids are products of cell degradation of granular skin layer.
They surround the corneocytes and forming into stacks, they incorporate water into stratum corneum structure and accomplish its hydration.
The cell membranes also release lipids on degradation.
These lipids are mostly made up of sphingolipids (derived from the aliphatic amino alcohol sphingosine), fatty acids and cholesterol.
Ceramide is a major constituent of these lipids forming the stacked structure to trap molecules of water for epidermis hydration and desquamation.
These stacked lipids surround the corneocytes and form an impermeable barrier for moisture leaching out from the moisturizing factors formed naturally.
With old age inter-cellular lipids decrease sharply leading to reduced desquamation and dry scally epidermis conditions.

The water content of the outer epidermis (stratum corneum) fluctuates with environmental humidity.
There is a sharp TEWL (transepidermal water loss) in hot or cold dry air affecting the skin hydration and also desquamation of stratum corneum.

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Skin care - Skin physiology - Function of epidermis

2010-08-14T15:18:00.024+05:30

Physiology of skin - Function of epidermis → function of dermis

Human skin has two important and main layers, dermis and epidermis with different physiology and function.

Epidermis, the outer most layer of skin, functions as a chemical and physical barrier between the interior of the body and external environment.
Its physiology and function include secretion, excretion, insulation, protection and pigmentation.
Dermis is the deeper layer and its main action is to provide structural support to the skin.

Skin physiology: function of epidermis in protection

The main action of bottom most layer of epidermis, which lies adjacent to dermis, is the cell multiplication.
The new cells progressively move towards the outer layers, simultaneously maturing and differentiating.
The physiology and shape of the cells also changes and by the time they reach the top most layer, they are flattened, lacking nuclei they become lifeless.
At this stage they are called corneocytes and are filled with keratin proteins capable of water retention and also lipids.
The outer most layer, which contains 10-30 layers of stacked corneocytes, is called Stratum Corneum and is semi-permeable, becoming a barrier between the interior of the skin and external surroundings.
Epidermis physiology also includes functions as physical barrier protecting the internal tissues from bacterial invasion, physical abrasion and ultraviolet rays.

Skin physiology: function of epidermis in thermoregulation, excretion and sensation

In hot weather, skin physiology is tuned to produce sweat.
Sweat on reaching the epidermis surface, evaporates cooling the surface by the latent heat of evaporation.
In response to low temperatures, sweat is decreased and blood flow to the skin is increased to maintain the temperature.
Besides removing excess water and temperature control, the sweating process also removes smaller quantities of waste salts and many organic compounds.
The nerve fibers (Merkel cells) reach upto the outer most layer of dermis and stratum basale and pick up sense signals of touch, temperature, pain and pressure.

Skin physiology: function of epidermis in immunity

Certain epecialised cells of epidermis, Langerhans cells, have immune functions.
Though these cells originate from bone marrow, they migrate to epidermis layers.
These dendritic cells have Birbeck granules.
They interact with white blood cells (helper T cells) and help in destroying the invading organisms.
Apart from detection of foreign bodies, Langerhans' cells, have a major role in the physiology of allergies.

skin layers

Epidermis and dermis

Skin physiology: function of epidermis in skin coloration

The black-brown pigment, melanin, is produced by the melanocytes present in basal layer of epidermis.
Melanocytes comprise upto 10% of the cells in epidermis.
The slender projections of melanocytes extend to keratinocytes and help in the transfer of melanin granules.
Melanin granules apart from imparting color to skin also protect it from UV rays.
Melanin granules clump on the surface side of keratinocytes, protecting the nucleus from UV light and genetic damage.
The scattering and absorbing of Uv rays by melanin protects the internal cells by blocking free radical formation and damage.

Thus with multiple functions, epidermis plays a major role in skin physiology.

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Dry skin moisturizers

2010-08-13T21:29:00.005+05:30

Beauty tips → Dry skin moisturizers

Dry skin moisturizers must be used for alleviating and preventing xerosis problems.

Dry skin condition (also known as xerosis or xeroderma) is caused by many factors and some of them are environment, poor quality moisturizers and cosmetics, mental and physical stress, unbalanced diet, bad eating habits and skin diseases.
These situations cause damages to acidic protective layer on the skin and there is loss of moisture from the epidermis.
The reduction in the protein-carbohydrate-lipid complex of the epidermis (which helps in retaining water) also causes this condition.
In the winter months and also in air-conditioned environment, dry skin worsens as more water is lost from the epidermis due cold dry conditions, requiring application of good products.

Types of dry skin moisturizers

Many brands of these products are available in the beauty stores. They come in many forms like ointments, oils like massage oil, bath oil and vegetable oils, creams, lotions, gels, facial packs etc.
Moisturizers in the form of ointment are very effective. However they may leave a greasy feeling. By using small quantities and by rubbing them into the epidermis, this greasy feeling can be minimised.
Oil moisturizers are also quite effective and leave a less greasy feeling. Creams, lotions and gels are to be individually evaluated for efficacy as the ingredients in them vary widely.
Homemade moisturizers can be prepared by properly blending natural oils with natural emollients having occlusion (providing oil layer), humectant (increasing water holding capacity) and lubrication properties.

Ideal dry skin moisturizers

Good moisturizers must be effective and provide moisture to the upper layer of epidermis and prevent loss of water from it.
They should be good emollients, making skin soft, supple and smooth.
They should build up/restore the sebum barrier of epidermis, locking up its water content.
They must penetrate the epidermis rapidly and hydrate the dry skin.
In xeroderma, skin is likely to be sensitive and good moisturizers should not contain any possible allergens (substances that tends to cause allergies), sensitizing agents and comodogens (substances that tend to produce acne).
Good products normally should contain antioxidants and collagen and elastin building ingredients, helping the skin repair process.
Natural and organic ingredients are the best solution as there is less likelihood of harm to the skin.
Products containing olive oil, rosehip oil, castor oil, shea butter, almond oil, squalene, squalane (more stable), Proteoglycans, Glycosaminoglycans and other vegetable oils are to be preferred.

Ingredients to be avoided in dry skin moisturizers

Products containing chemicals and strong mineral oil products may turn out to be harmful in the long run, as they can disturb the sebum secretion in the skin.
A product with a long list of chemical ingredients may contain one or two chemicals unsuitable to you and can harm your skin.
Lotion moisturizers are usually oil and chemicals suspended in water and alcohol. The alcohol present in them may actually dehydrate skin when used repeatedly.

How to use dry skin moisturizers?

The best time to apply is immediately after a bath/shower. After dabbing the body dry, immediately apply the product to trap the water held by the epidermis.
It is also a best practice to apply it before going to bed.
When you are going out and are likely to be exposed to sun or cold winds do not forget to apply dry skin moisturizers and sun screen.
Apply the product two to three times a day on the very dry parts like elbows, knees, hands, feet and also on the itching and flaking areas.
Whether one has xerosis or not, application on a regular basis helps in preventing the development of this problem.
Xeroderma in knuckles
If your xeroderma condition is accompanied by dermatitis ( inflammation) consult a dermatologist immediately.
The problem of dry skin is surmountable and can be controlled, treated and prevented with regular application of ideal dry skin moisturizers.
Image courtesy: Ser Amantio di Nicolao at en.wikipedia with permission under CC-BY-SA-3.0.

Dry skin tips

2010-08-13T20:06:00.010+05:30

Beauty tips → Dry skin tips 'Dry skin tips' can help you to prevent xeroderma from occurring and if xeroderma condition is already existing, these tips can show you how to treat and cure it.

Tips for dry skin (xeroderma or xerosis) prevention and cure

Following the basic skin care routine tips, giving attention to our food habits and taking certain precautions regarding sun exposure and winter, can go a long way in preventing and relieving dry skin conditions.
However in conditions due to diseases, treatment of the disease is the first priority.

Dry skin tips about food and drinks

The first and foremost of tips about preventing and healing dry skin condition is fulfilling our body's water requirement.
Depending upon the weight, a normal adult under normal conditions require up to four litres of water per day (very important tips).
People consuming insufficient water tend to be in a chronic state of dehydration are most likely to get dry skin.
As sufficient water is not supplied to epidermal cells from the blood, they get dehydrated.
Aerated soft drinks and coffee tend to dehydrate the body and their consumption must be reduced.
Alcoholic beverages also increase the water requirement and their consumption must be controlled to get relief from dry skin.
Our diet must contain sufficient essential fatty acids so that sebum secretion is normal. Add fish, flax oil, fish oil, eggs and omega fatty acid rich vegetable oils in your diet.
Omega-3 fatty acids help in hydration of the skin (very important tips).
Our food must be balanced containing sufficient proteins, vitamins and minerals.
Insufficient proteins and vitamin C makes the skin to develop wrinkles and become dry.

Dry skin tips about cleaning and bathing

If your water supply is from local facility check the water for chlorine content.
Chlorine in the water strips the skin of its protective cover.
If this is the only source try removing chlorine by allowing it stand in a container for a day and if chloramine is being added use some dechlorinating agent.
Better solution will be to use chlorine free packaged water.
One of the important tips is reducing the amount of time spent on bathing. Even ten minutes is too long.
Long exposure to water makes the epidermis to be more permeable and the protective sebum barrier gets damaged.
Do not take bath more than once in a day. Frequent wetting damages the protective oil layer.
Use very mild soap with pH at 7 or less. Never use alkaline soaps. Alkaline soaps react with acidic protective layer and destroy it (very important tips).
Use warm water for bathing and avoid hot water. Hot water removes the oily protective layer.
After bath dab the skin and immediately apply moisturizer to lock in the moisture.

Dry skin tips about moisturizers and cosmetics

Clean your skin with alcohol free cosmetic milk, cleaning lotion, cleansers or toners to remove grime, epidermis debris and remnants of make up, to open up and clean pores and make it ready for application of moisturizers.
When using commercial products take care to evaluate their suitability. Many commercial products contain harsh chemicals.
Products containing natural ingredients and oils are the best. Alternatively you can make your own homemade moisturizer (very important tips).
If you are over thirty years, use a gentle scrub to exfoliate and remove skin debris, at least once in a week.
The clinging dirt and grime make the moisturizers ineffective.
Use all other make-up cosmetics only after the application of moisturizer.
As lips also get dry skin, moisturize them often with lip balm. Please note that licking dry lips makes them drier.
When you shave use shave cream or gel and shave in the direction of hair growth. After shave apply moisturizer.

Dry skin tips about protection from sun and weather elements

Take care to protect yourself from sunlight. The sunlight between 10 am and 4 pm is intense and much of the skin damage happens during this period (very important tips).
Wear sun protective clothing and wide brimmed hat to avoid the UV rays and keep you cool. Use sunscreen on the exposed areas of the skin.
If the exposure is going to be for a longer time, apply sunscreen every two hours.
Cold dry winds dehydrate the epidermis and take away its moisture. Avoid exposure to cold winds.
Similarly getting exposed to rains for a long time also removes the protective coating on the skin. Use rain coat/umbrella to protect yourself.
Air travel can also dehydrate your skin.
On long flights the humidity inside the aircraft can be very low. So prepare yourself with ample application of moisturizers.
Do not forget to moisturize after the flight.

Dry skin tips for winter care

Winter weather usually tends to worsen the condition, as dry skin is usually sensitive.
In winter, as the humidity tends to be low, epidermis layers dry up fast. If you are using room heaters, the warm dry air also can be devastating for the skin.
One of the tips for maintaining the moisture in the room air is using humidifier.

General dry skin tips

Do not scratch the itchy dry skin. Apply moisturizer to soothe it. If it is cracked and inflamed consult a dermatologist as it might have got infected (very important tips).
Cut down on alcohol as it is a drying agent. Further alcohol prevents proper absorption and utilization of vitamins, so vital for a healthy body.
Smoking also dehydrates the body and the epidermis. It also interferes with absorption and utilisation of nutrients.
It is found that mental and physical stress has effect over the skin secretions leading to xerosis (very important tips).

By following these dry skin tips, much relief and cure can be achieved and dry skin condition may become a thing of past.

Skin care - What causes dry skin

2010-08-12T20:19:00.005+05:30

Causes of dry skin → What is dry skin? → Moisturizers → Homemade face moisturizer recipe → Oily epidermis treatments

Dry skin causes can be either external or internal, which have to be addressed specifically for relief.
There are many factors and causes inducing dry skin condition and some of them are dietary deficiencies, weather elements and sun exposure, frequent baths and harsh soaps, hormonal deficiencies, genetic factors and skin diseases.
The causes of dry skin can be corrected easily by removing the affecting factors.
However the internal factors, especially diseases, take long term medical management.

Dry skin causes: dietary deficiencies

This condition can result very easily when there is insufficient intake of water or dehydration of body cells.
The deficiencies of B-complex vitamins and vitamin A have been found to be causes of dry skin.
Riboflavin deficiency leads to cracks in the corner of the mouth.
Higher amounts of alcohol, caffeine and fried food are likely causes of dry skin.
Irregular food habits and smoking lead to chronic xeroderma.

Dry skin causes: weather and sun exposure

Winter leads to xeroderma condition as the epidermis loses water due to lowest humidity levels prevailing in winter.
There is a mistaken notion that winter with its cold conditions is rich in moisture; but the reverse is true.
Winter winds are dry and whatever moisture in it is already deposited as snow.
A good example is the refrigerator, wherein if a plump tomato is left in circulating air, it appears shriveled after some time due to loss of water.
Similarly hot air can also be devastating for the epidermis, robbing it of its moisture as it happens in desert regions.
Pollutants, smoke, dust and high levels of ozone can be causes of dry skin condition.
Lack of balanced diet along with malnutrition results in xeroderma.
Direct sunlight by its heating effect dehydrates the epidermis.
Longer exposure also damages the inner dermis cells affecting their functions in moisturizing the epidermis.
The deeper collagen and elastin tissues are also damaged due to long exposures to sunlight; this causes wrinkles and increase in surface area for evaporation.
Sunstroke and heatstroke leads to xeroderma.

Dry skin causes: low humidity induced by air-conditioning and heating

When there is low humidity (low concentration of moisture in air) epidermis may easily lose its moisture, especially when the protective mantle is damaged or disturbed.
Apart from winter, reasons of low humidity can be due to air-conditioning, central heating, fireplaces, space heaters and furnaces.
In these situations the conditions can be greatly improved by installation of humidifiers.

Dry skin causes: frequent baths and chemicals in water

Bath tends to remove the protective mantle of the epidermis.
However to keep our skin from excess of sebum, dead cells and bacteria bath is required.
Too frequent baths or showers remove much of the protecting sebum layers resulting in xerosis conditions.
Hot baths and bathing for long time also damages the lipid barriers.
Heavily chlorinated bath water or swimming pool can also damage the protective layer leading to xerosis.

Dry skin causes: detergents, harsh soaps, shampoos, wrong moisturizers and make-up

Most of the bath soaps and detergents are alkaline in nature.
The protective lipid layer of the epidermis is acidic in nature and it gets neutralised and damaged by the harsh alkaline soaps.
Most of the anti-bacterial preparations, deodorants and shampoos are made to give the proclaimed results, but are devastating for the protective lipid layer.
Use of unsuitable cleansers, toners, moisturizers and make-up are major reasons for xeroderma.
Cosmetics made for oily skin conditions when applied on normal epidermis may take away extra moisture and oil causing xerosis.
Many of the chemical ingredients in cosmetics can be the causes of xeroderma.
Mineral oils and pH balancers damage acid mantle protecting the epidermis.

Dry skin causes: aging process

With old age the collagen and elastin tissues become thinner; adding to this condition is the decreased out put of sebum due declining androgen secretion.
The loss of sebum layer leads to xerosis conditions in the aged.

Dry skin causes: hypothyroidism and hormonal imbalance

Thyroid disorder like hypothyroidism causes decrease in the production of thyroid hormones.
The activity of the sebaceous glands and sweat glands is reduced in the absence of thyroid hormones and causes scaly skin.

Hormonal imbalance also causes dry skin.
Many women experience oily or dry skin conditions at some stage of their pregnancy due to changing hormonal profile.
Persons with affected androgen production experience lowered sebum production and xerosis.
Hormonal imbalances of progesterone and estrogen during menopause drastically reduces the sebum production.

Sebaceous glands

Dry skin causes: genetic factors, diseases and skin ailments

Many people are genetically prone to xerosis.
Due to certain genetic diseases androgen production is reduced resulting in xerosis.
Ichthyoses are mostly genetic skin disorders. All these disorders are characterised by thickened, flaky or scaly epidermis.
The most common among them is ichthyosis vulgaris accounting for nearly 95% of cases.
In such genetic disorders even infants can have severe dry skin.
Diseases, especially skin diseases, lead to xerosis. Kidney ailments, diabetes, auto-immune diseases, sarcoidosis, chemical poisoning, rubbing of chemicals like alcohol and kerosene, Anorexia Nervosa, HIV/AIDS, Sjogren's syndrome, Hodgkins' disease, cancer, chronic diarrhea, pituitary deficiency, allergies, seborrhea, eczema, lichen infection, dermatitis, fungal skin infections and psoriasis are major medical causes of xerosis.
Certain antihistamines, antispasmodics, retinoids, cholesterol lowering drugs (niacin) and diuretics can lead to dry skin.

Lack of exercise, lack of sleep and poor blood circulation are some of the causes of dry skin.

What is dry skin - Dry skin problems and conditions

2010-08-12T18:37:00.008+05:30

What is dry skin - Conditions and problems → What causes dry skin? → Moisturizers → Homemade face moisturizer recipe → Oily skin treatments

What is dry skin(xerosis or xeroderma)

The medical term for dry skin is Xerosis cutis.

Xerosis conditions and problems results from insufficient moisture in the stratum corneum (outermost layer of epidermis).
Xerosis results when the capacity of stratum corneum to hold back moisture is lost and is unable to protect the inner layers from losing water.
Knowing what causes dry skin (xerodrma or xerosis) help us in taking preventive measures, alleviating the conditions and finding treatments and remedies.
The outer most layer of epidermis region of our skin (stratum corneum) is made up of dead cells embedded in natural oils (sebum) secreted by underlying cells of epidermis.

This protective layer of sebum, holds back the epidermis moisture from evaporating into atmosphere and also protects epidermis from entry of harmful substances and germs.

Dry skin problems and conditions

The affected region has red, parched, dull or flaky look and the affected person feels skin tightness and itching.
Problems like extreme itchiness may overwhelm the affected person and can causes him sleepless nights.
The affected area in extreme conditions may show wrinkles, cracking, chapping, bleeding, and dermatitis.
In chronic conditions thin expression lines may form on the forehead, near the eyes and the corner of mouth.
These conditions are exacerbated by frequent baths, air-conditioning, cold winds and room heating.
These problems are found to affect both men and women equally.
Elderly people are more prone to get xerosis due to falling secretions of sebum.
Persons whose occupation requires frequent wetting of hands or body and persons working in cold or hot draught of wind may also get xeroderma if proper protective measures are not taken.
Usually hands, arms, legs, feet and sides of the abdomen are first affected. There are various levels of severity of xerosis.
It conditions may be temporary, as in the case of winter dry skin and it may last for a few days to few months.
Xerosis conditions caused by environmental factors and use of wrong moisturizers can be alleviated and corrected by certain corrective measures including use of right moisturizers.

Severe dry skin conditions due to health problems

However severe to very severe xerosis problems can be caused by skin diseases and other health problems.

Hormonal imbalances and hormonal deficiencies may also give rise to xerosis as sebum production is linked to androgen secretion.
These types of xeroderma conditions have to be tackled at the root cause level and the disease behind it has to be treated in order to get lasting relief.

X-linked Ichthyosis genetic disorder
Very severe dry skin problems are caused by certain genetic disorders (Ichthyosis) and only some measures can be taken to get some relief from these problems and cure is still a distant hope with all the research going on.

Though severe and chronic dry skin problems require evaluation by a dermatologist, understanding the root causes of dry skin conditions can helps us in taking certain preventive measures to alleviate the problems.

Homemade face moisturizer recipe

2010-07-31T15:50:00.025+05:30

Homemade face moisturizer recipe - Oily skin tips - Dry skin tips - Beauty tips

Homemade face moisturizer recipe is less expensive and easy to make from the ingredients available at home.

Skin, especially of face, naturally contains water for remaining soft, supple, healthy and glowing. However many factors act on it continuously, disturbing its hydrated condition and making it to dry up and shrivel.
To protect its water content and to replace and top up loss we require to apply moisturizers which can be made at home following the recipe.

For being effective, ingredients of homemade face moisturizers should penetrate the skin and show all emollient functions like providing protective oil layer on the skin surface, increase water retaining capacity of the epidermis and add glide across the face skin.

Application method for all the homemade face moisturizer recipes

Take specified quantities of ingredients.
Mix and blend the ingredients given below.
Always apply moisturizer after a bath or shower.
Apply on previously cleansed and slightly damp face.
Allow it to remain for 15 minutes and wash off the excess of moisturizer with tepid water.
Dab the skin and immediately apply a few drops of olive oil or vegetable oil to lock in moisture.
Applying twice daily gives good results.
As a rule apply face moisturizer before going to bed, giving skin sufficient time to take in moisture without stress.
Use freshly prepared homemade face moisturizers.
Apply gently with circular motions into face skin.

Homemade face moisturizer recipe for normal skin

Olive oil recipe

Olive oil 1 tablespoon

Castor oil ¼ tablespoon

water 1 tablespoon
Olive oil and honey - homemade moisturizer

olive oil 1 tablespoon

Castor oil ¼ tablespoon

pure honey ¼ tablespoon
Honey, yogurt and egg albumen recipe

honey 1 tablespoon

yogurt 2 tablespoons

egg white (whipped) 1 tablespoon
Honey and glycerin homemade moisturizer

honey 2 tablespoons

glycerin 2 tablespoons

witch hazel 1 tablespoon
Cocoa butter and egg-yolk recipe

cocoa butter (heated) 2 tablespoons

egg-yolk from one egg

lemon juice 2 tablespoons

Homemade face moisturizer recipe for dry skin and combination skin

Olive oil and almonds

olive oil 2 tablespoons

Castor oil ¼ tablespoon

almonds paste 2 tablespoons

water 2 tablespoons
Aloe Vera and coconut oil recipe

aloe Vera gel 2 tablespoons

coconut oil 2 tablespoons

water 2 tablespoons
Jojoba oil and coconut oil homemade moisturizer

jojoba oil 2 tablespoons

coconut oil 2 tablespoons

Castor oil ½ tablespoon

water 2 tablespoons
Bee wax and Shea butter recipe

bee wax (melt) 2 tablespoons

Shea butter (melt) 2 tablespoons

coconut oil 1 tablespoon

water 1 tablespoon
Pineapple juice and olive oil

Pineapple juice (raw) 2 tablespoons

olive oil 2 table spoons

Homemade face moisturizer recipe for oily skin

Honey and apple juice

honey 1 tablespoon

apple juice (fresh) 2 tablespoons

lemon juice 1 tablespoon
Honey and watermelon juice recipe

honey 2 tablespoons

watermelon juice 2 tablespoons

lemon juice 1 tablespoon
Honey and avocado homemade moisturizer

honey 2 tablespoons

avocado pulp 2 tablespoons

lemon juice 1 tablespoon
Papaya and lemon juice

Papaya paste 2 tablespoons

lemon juice 2 tablespoons
Aloe Vera and rose water homemade moisturizer

aloe Vera juice 2 tablespoons

rose water 2 tablespoons

glycerin 1 tablespoon

Bee wax, olive oil, coconut oil, Castor oil, almond oil, Shea butter, cocoa butter, avocado oil, jojoba oil, raw fruit juices and pulps, distilled water, honey, aloe Vera gel and juice, milk and yogurt are some of the popular and useful ingredients used in homemade face moisturizer recipe.

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Skin care - Oily skin treatment - Cure - Home remedies and solutions

2010-07-30T18:45:00.008+05:30

Basic skin care routine → Oily skin causes - Sebum and sebaceous glands → Oily skin - treatment, cure and home remedies - Dry skin causes and care

Oily skin advantage and care

Human skin produces oily sebum to protect itself from the weather elements and also as a lubricant.
A healthy skin produces sufficient sebum to keep itself wel-nourished, wrinkle-resistant, moisturized and glossy.
Oily skin condition arises when the sebum is produced in excess of requirement due to many causes described in detail in the earlier post requiring treatment and cure.
The great advantage of oily skin is that it ages slowly and is well moisturized.
The disadvantages of oily skin are that it is dull, thick and coarse in looks.

Oily skin leads to blackheads, pimples and embarrassing blemishes requiring treatment with home remedies.

Oily skin treatment

For treatment for oily skin, we have to look into the root causes of it.
We have to check up if the oily condition is prevalent in the family members like the parents, siblings, aunts and uncles.
If the problem is prevalent in family then the individual has to put up with the problem as it is hereditary as continuous treatment is needed.
Treatment can give solutions to reduce the intensity of oily face condition and associated problems. There can be no total cure or permanent remedies.
Only with old age the oily condition slowly subsides and skin cures itself with the reduction in hormone output which is nature's treatment. Perfect skin (image: Sue Brown)

Oily skin cures and solutions

If the oily condition is not hereditary, there is a possibility of achieving complete cure with specific treatment and preventive efforts.
Weather: For treatment and getting cure from excess oily sebum production, hot and humid weather must be avoided.
For cure from oily face it goes without saying that prolonged exposure to sunlight must be avoided.
Hormones: If the cause is due to hormonal fluctuations as in mensuration, pregnancy and menopause, skin cares measures like cleansing can help in treatment.
Complete cure can be obtained with hormone treatments for reducing the androgen output.
However hormonal treatments for oily conditions are to be done under the care of medical professionals.
Self treatments and consumption of hormones without doctor's advice can result in devastating health problems.
Food habits: We have to review our food habits. If our consumption of fats and carbohydrates is fairly above the recommended daily requirement (RDA), then we are becoming a candidate for oily skin.
Taking balanced food rich in proteins, vitamins and minerals itself is treatment and cure in such cases.
Taking plenty of leafy vegetables and fruits cures oily face condition.
Vitamin B2 deficiency can cause excess oil production.
Taking food rich in B vitamins like whole cereals and grains, nuts and legumes can provide treatment and solution for the oily problem.
Drinking sufficient water, keeps our body and specially skin cells hydrated and removes toxins and metabolic wastes; drinking water sufficiently can cure this condition.
Cosmetics: Excessive use of cosmetics can remove the skin oil totally and to counter it our skin starts producing excess of sebum.
In such cases restrictive use of cosmetics itself is a cure and is one of the remedies.
Medical treatment and cures: Topical isotretinoin and tretinoin, vitamin derivatives may be prescribed by dermatologists to cure this problem.
Benzoyl peroxide also forms part of the solutions for cure of oily skin.
For the cure of oily skin, cure of acne and pimples must be achieved in the first instance with prescribed antibiotic solutions.
Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA) solutions can also resolve and cure acne and excess sebum production.
Use of salicylic acid or glycolic acid reduces sebum build up.
Smoking and consumption of alcohol have been found to dehydrate the skin cells and can cause excess sebum production.

Oily skin home remedies

Washing the oily skin with mild low pH soap and plenty of fairly warm/hot water removes much of the sebum and the dirt, opening the pores and keeping them free from clogging; it is the best of home remedies.
However washing must be restricted to two or three times a day. Excessive washing can induce skin to produce more sebum and reverse our efforts to cure with home remedies and solutions.
Harsh soaps and skin care products must be avoided as they may become more a problem than a solution.
Harsh products will completely strip the skin of sebum, whereby the sebaceous glands are induced to produce more sebum.
They may also make the skin taut and dehydrated, restricting the free flow of sebum.
Light products like extra virgin olive oil can be used as cleanser as it can dissolve sebum into a solution and help in its removal.
Application of lemon juice on the face and allowing it to dry for 15 minutes before rinsing cures this problem.
Treatment by application of cucumber juice and honey cures this oily problem.
Application of aloe vera juice on the oily epidermis, leaving for 15 -20 minutes and then rinsing with near hot water is one of the home remedies for this problem.
Tomato puree can be applied as treatment and one of the home remedies; it can be left for 15 minutes and then rinsed clean.
Yogurt and papaya juice are other home remedies in control and treatment of this problem.
Clay mask is one of the home remedies for treatment of oily condition as it removes excess sebum and cures the problem.
Sandalwood powder paste with water when used as mask treatment helps in removing excess sebum and is one of the home remedies.
Steaming treatment is also one of the home remedies as it opens up pores and liquefies the sebum into a solution.
Face must be wiped clean gently to remove the sebum and dirt soon after steaming. Care should be taken to apply moisturizer soon after steaming.
After cleansing, oil free moisturizer can be applied to keep the skin soft and supple.
Treatment by exfoliation periodically helps in removing skin debris and opening up pores and acne and is one of the important home remedies and cures.
The affected individual should exercise, relax and sleep well as tension and stress have been found to increase the sebum secretion, affecting the treatment with home remedies and achieving cure.
With proper care, the problem of oily skin can be overcome and with correct treatment solutions and cure is possible.

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26 6

Oily skin tips

2010-07-30T17:10:00.010+05:30

Oily skin tips → Dry skin tips → Beauty tips

Oily skin condition is caused by a myriad of reasons (predominantly hereditary) and following these tips you can alleviate the problem.

Oily skin tips: Food and drinks

Eat balanced food containing all the required macro nutrients (proteins and essential fatty acids) and micro nutrients (minerals and vitamins).
Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables and fish.
Drink plenty of water to remove metabolic wastes and toxins. (very important tips)
Daily one litre of water per one kg of body weight is recommended.
Whatever food is bad for your health is also bad for your skin.
Avoid fat rich deep fried foods, fatty meat products and junk food.
Avoid alcohol as it interferes with absorption and utilisation of nutrients and induces excessive sebaceous gland activity.
Quit smoking, as smoking cuts down the optimal supply of oxygen to epidermis and induces sebum production.

Oily skin tips: Bath and washing

Take bath at least once a day, but spend minimal time bathing.
Use tepid water for bathing and washing.
Do not use hot water as it can strip your skin of moisture and induce sebum production. (very important tips)
Very cold water will shock the epidermis and as a response, after sometime, it will start producing more sebum.
Water with high chlorine content must be avoided for bathing, as chlorine has drying effect on the skin and body's response will be by over production of sebum.

Oily skin tips: Soaps

Use mild soaps and test and select a brand most suitable to your skin.
Use only neutral or slightly acidic soaps after testing their suitability. (very important tips)
Avoid harsh, alkaline soaps as they interfere with normal pH (acidic condition) of the epidermis.

Oily skin tips: Scrubbing

Sebum collects dirt and dust on it and combining dead cell debris, grime is formed and make the epidermis unhygienic. Regular scrubbing is necessary to remove it.
Exfoliate at least twice a week in order to keep the pores open and healthy.

Oily skin tips: cleansing

Keep a schedule of cleansing your face twice daily.
Never miss to cleanse face before going to bed.
Use cleansers which are mild and made especially for oily skin.
Cleansers with oily base work better by dissolving the sebum; follow it up with a water based cleanser.
Harsh cleansers, especially those containing Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) tend to dry out the skin and damage the acid mantle and the body responds by producing more sebum.
It is always better to go in for organic and herbal cleansers.

Oily skin tips: moisturizing

Moisturizers are not normally required in this skin condition, especially for adolescents and young adults. They can think of moisturization before going to bed after cleansing the skin.
Aged persons and women nearing menopause tend to have patches of sebum areas along with dry skin. They can use mild moisturizers which are least oily.

Oily skin tips: toners and astringents

Toners tighten the pores and reduce the chances of clogging of pores.
In oily skin condition pores tend to enlarge giving mottled appearance, which can be alleviated by use of toners.
Avoid harsh toners, especially astringents with alcohol base, as they can dry up the skin and induce further sebum production.

Oily skin tips: blotting

Now and then you can use blotting paper to remove excess sebum on the face.
Powder layered blotting papers are more efficient in absorbing sebum. However they may leave a powdery substance on the face.
Blot powder can also be used to mop up extra grease. However this has to be washed off at the earliest opportunity to protect pores from clogging.
Facial tissue papers can also be used and prefer those without fragrance to avoid possibility of allergies.

Oily skin tips: Vitamins

High doses of Pantothenic acid (vitamin B₅) have been found to reduce sebum production.
Vitamin B₅ in sufficient quantities regulates the production of androgen (cause of sebum production) by its effect on Coenzyme-A (CoA).
Vitamin B₅ decreases the build up of fatty acids and their excretion through sebaceous glands.
Use of up to 2 gms of vitamin B₅ is recommended. (very important tips)
However to offset possible stomach upset, it is better to start at 500 mg per day in 2-3 split doses and gradually increase it to 2 gms/day.

Oily skin tips: Medication

If you are taking any medicine, check up with your health care provider for its effects on the skin.
Retinoid chemicals reduce the production of sebum and can shrink the size of sebaceous glands.
Acne medications like, Isotretinoin can help in prevention of sebum production.
Use of retinoids or isotretinoin must be only under the advice of dermatologists as there can be side effects.

Oily skin tips: make-up

If you require to wear make-up, make it minimal and use grease free foundation make-up, preferably in the form of powder.
Make it a point to remove make-up before going to bed to avoid clogging of pores.
Apply toner and wait for five minutes before applying make-up.

Oily skin tips: sun exposure

Avoid exposure to sun and heat. Exposure to heat causes excess production of sweat and sebum. (very important tips)
Tanning bed UV ray exposure also can cause excess sebum production and enlargement of pores.
Use grease-free sunscreen (at least 15 SPF), if you are required to go out in the sunlight.

Oily skin tips: associated acne problems

If cleansing of oily skin is not done regularly, the pores may get clogged and result in acne and pimples.
Steaming (for about 15 minutes) the face daily helps in opening up pores and in removal of black heads.
After steaming, use cleanser and then apply cold water to close the pores.
Using cleanser containing salicylic acid, helps in cases of acne breakouts.

Following these oily skin tips you can turn this condition into a nature's gift as well maintained oily skin, ages slowly and develops wrinkles slowly.

The wonder super food olive oil for skin care - beauty tips

2010-06-29T19:15:00.006+05:30

Types of olive oil → Nutrition → Olive health benefits → For skin care → For hair care → Moisturizer → Beauty tips

Olive oil has immense uses for skin care and its health.

The benefits of olive oil for skin can be fully reaped by eating it and also applying it.
Jeanne Calment, a French lady with the longest documented life span of 122 years and 164 days was believed to have attributed her youthful appearance and her longevity to the wonders of the super food olive oil.
Jeanne Calment said that she used to pour virgin olive oil on her food and to rub it into her skin and care for it.
The secret of the beauty of the women of the Mediterranean region is their reliance on this super food as one of the essential food items and their application of olive oil to skin to moisturise it.
The use of this extract enhance the glow of the skin. They applied the extra virgin olive oil on the body to remove stretch marks.

Olive oil is commonly used in cooking, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and soaps and as a fuel for traditional lamps from time unknown.

The most traditional way of making this is by grinding olive fruits.

Green olive fruits produce bitter product, and overripe fruits produce rancid extract, so care is taken to make sure that the fruits are perfectly ripened.

The use of olive extract in food has tremendous positive effect on the skin care.

This contains a group of related natural products like polyphenols with potent antioxidant properties which reduce the risk of cancer.

Another use of it in food is the improvement of blood circulation due to its vasodilatory properties.

It is believed that consumption of this oil by pregnant women helps in the birth of healthy baby.

It contains high proportions of monounsaturated fats and evidence from epidemiological studies suggests that a higher proportion of monounsaturated fats in the diet is linked with a reduction in the risk of coronary heart disease.

Olive oil is one of the main ingredients in cosmetic preparations like soaps, hand lotions, lip balm, bath applications, shampoo, massage applications, soak for nails, dandruff treatment, etc.

Use of extra virgin olive oil for skin care, because of its high content of monounsaturated fatty acids, reduces the photo aging (dermatoheliosis) by reducing the oxidative damage by Ultra violet rays in the sun light.

Acne vulgaris on the forehead of an adolescent boy

Olive oil cleansing method (OCM) for skin

This is a method to clean our face using a mix of extra virgin olive oil and Castoroil.

Sometimes coconutoil or sunfloweroil are used for blending. Usually equal proportions of Castoroil and olive extract are used.

For greasy skin the proportion of olive extract is reduced. This mix is rubbed gently on to epidermis for two to three minutes.

Then a fairly warm and wet wash towel is dabbed over the face till it cools.

Then a towel is used to wipe off the excess of this mix. Then use one or two drops of olive oil for moisturising the skin.

In this olive extract OCM for skin care, many beneficial effects like reduction in acne and black heads, softening of the epidermis, removal of the dead debris and the improvement in fairness and tone are achieved.

The science behind this olive oil OCM is that by the use of soap, skin sebum gets removed and to compensate the body produces more of it in normal cases.

The excess production of skin sebum leading to greasy epidermis is due to hormones and intake of excess calories in all its forms like fried foods, ice creams, use of excess fat in food preparations etc..

By OCM the natural body lipids remain and with the enhanced effect of olive oil the skin gets nourished and moisturised.

Olive oil is preferred for removing mascara. It makes the skin around the eye healthy and reduces the dark circles.

Application on the skin around the eyes reduces dark circles

Homely tips for skin care with olive oil

Olive oil in hair and scalp skin care:

Apply olive extract on the head and massage and rub it into hair and scalp for ten minutes. Olive oil reduces the seborrheic dermatitis (dandruff) and discourages lice.
The massage with it improves the circulation care the scalp and stimulates the hair follicles.
Olive oil massage of scalp reduces hair fall, controls dry hair and split ends and functions as leave-in conditioner giving gloss to hair.

Olive oil for facial skin:

A moisturizing facial mask can be prepared with olive oil, honey, a teaspoon of lemon juice and an egg yolk. Blend them well and apply the cream to face and leave it for about 15 to 30 minutes.
Then rinse well with fairly warm water. Dab your face with clean towel and immediately apply two to three drops of it on the face to lock in the moisture.
A paste of lemon juice and olive oil can be applied on facial skin and left overnight and the mild antibiotic properties of both lemon juice and olive oil will gradually clear up the acne.

Olive oil as skin shaving oil:

The use of shaving product is gaining popularity mainly due to lack of potentially harmful chemicals, better gliding properties and excellent moisturising effects.
This can be prepared at home by adding equal quantities of olive extract and castoroil and blending them. For fragrance one or two drops of an essentialoils can be added.
Because of better gliding properties less cuts and nicks are experienced. Due to moisturising effect of olive oil no burning sensation is experienced.
Instead of being covered by foam you can see the area of the skin where you are shaving.

Olive oil for lips skin:

Lip balm can be prepared by adding equal parts of olive oil and molten bee wax and blending them.
If the consistency is harder a few drops of coconutoil can be added. Application of this balm will care for lips making them smooth and soft.
Lip balm can heal chapped lips

Application of this balm can help in the healing of the chapped lips and give a soothing feeling.

Avoid licking lips as licking them can remove moisture from the lips and you can end up with chapped lips. Saliva on the chapped lips can further aggravate the irritation and burning feeling.

For immediate relief from burning sensation apply olive oil on the chapped lips.

Olive oil for nails and skin care:

Nails just like skin can dry out, break, peel and get infected. We have to care for them to keep them healthy.

Brittle nails (Onychorrhexis) is a condition in which nails loose their pliability and become brittle and break off easily.

This may be due to diseases like hypothyroidism and anemia, chemicals in nail polish remover and excessive use of strong soap and detergents.

Blend this and castor oil in equal proportions and warm the mix.

Soak the nails in this olive mix and massage the finger tips and the nails and take care of them. This will soften and strengthen the nails. After ten minutes rinse and wipe them dry and apply olive extract to lock in the moisture.

Olive oil for skin of hands and feet:

Apply it for skin dryness. Apply and massage on dry areas like elbows, knees, ankles and heels.

Application on these dry areas will moisurise them and remove dark marks gradually.

Dry and cracked feet respond well to it. Apply olive oil and massage the feet before going to bed. Wear cotton socks so that it does not get wiped out during sleep.

Repeat the same process for dry hands. You can find the effect in two or three days. Your hands and feet will have smooth skin.

Olive oil for skin care after exposure to sun:

Avoid long exposures to sun and care for your health. Long exposure to sun light, apart from removing the moisture, can lead to skin cancer.

If you get exposed to sunlight for long, on reaching shade immediately apply the extract on the exposed parts so that the damage to the skin is minimal.

Please note that olive oil does not function as sun screen. It can only reduce the bad effects of sun exposure on the skin and take care of it from free radicals damage.

Olive oil for skin care in bath:

Add several drops of this super food in your bath water as softner to achieve soft texture. Regular use can prevent wrinkles. Take care as bath tub gets slippery on contact with this extract.
For further skin care tips and information, read the following posts.

The wonder super food spirulina for skin care.

Visit The dynamic nature - olive oil for further information on olive oil for skin care.

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Olive oil for dry skin care

2010-06-11T08:34:00.009+05:30

Olive oil for dry skin → Beauty tips

Extra virgin olive oil is the best buy for treating dry skin (xeroderma) conditions.

Olive oil for dry outer skin (stratum corneum)

Xeroderma conditions are mostly caused by external environmental factors and defective nutrition.
Xeroderma commonly occurs on legs, thighs, sides of abdomen, arms, knees, elbows, knuckles and scalp.
Symptoms of xeroderma include scaling and peeling, cracking and itching in the skin.
Olive oil, being an excellent emollient and moisturizer, soothes and softens the dry epidermis.

Mechanism of action of olive oil on the dry skin

As an emollient it has three basic actions of occlusion, humectation and lubrication on the dry epidermis.
Its Occlusive action of providing a fine layer of oil on the surface, makes skin air and water tight.
Occlusion slows down loss of moisture from the epidermis and helps in increasing the moisture content (hydration) of the outermost skin layer, stratum corneum.
Its humectation action is due to its hygroscopic (moisture absorbing) properties.
It penetrates deep into epidermis and increases its capacity of holding water.
Its lubrication action causes the dry skin to glide and slip, preventing 'chafing'. The above actions treat dry skin, improving its texture and tone.
Now let us look at its bio-chemical part of action on dry skin.
Extra virgin olive oil is rich in polyphenols, natural antioxidants.
Our skin, being exposed to sun and external elements continuously, is robbed of its natural sebum.
Further the free radicals formed due to exposure to sunlight cause damage to the stratum corneum and reduce the function of the sebaceous glands.
When olive oil is applied it penetrates the skin and the antioxidant polyphenols present in it neutralize the free-radicals; thus the sebaceous glands get reactivated and sebum production becomes normal.

Olive oil treatments for dry skin

Extra virgin olive oil is best applied as such on the dry skin to rehydrate it and also to lock in moisture.
Clean the affected area with warm water and mild neutral or low pH soap to remove dead debris and grime.
Dab it with soft towel and immediately rub the oil gently on to the skin.
The rubbing movement is to get it deeper into the skin and to stimulate the cells for their normal functions.
Do not rub hard as this may further damage the already delicate dry stratum corneum; further the pores may get closed causing more problems.
Alternatively you can make its cleanser with other ingredients. Blend one egg yolk, one table spoon of olive oil and a few drops of essential oil of your choice. After applying wait for 15 minutes and wash with warm water. After dabbing gently, take a few drops of extra virgin oil in your palm and rub gently on to the skin to lock in moisture.
You can also blend it with other well known moisturizers like shea butter in equal proportions for enhancing the hydration of the stratum corneum. The blend is applied after washing and dabbing the troubling dry skin.
This olive extract can also be blended with one fourth volume of castor oil.
Castor oil is known for its deep penetrating action due to its low molecular mass.
This blend delivers the olive oil deep into the epidermis and helps in its hydration.
The method of application is similar to the first mentioned one. You can also add a teaspoon of honey to the above blend, as honey, being highly hygroscopic, along with olive oil acts as an excellent humectant hydrating the skin.
Alternatively you can use commercial products of well known brands containing extra virgin olive oil, like shampoos, exfoliators, cleansers, toners, moisturizers, night creams, body butter and bathoil to improve the dry epidermis condition.

Olive oil is also known for helping speedy healing of inflammations and injuries of dry skin.

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Skin care - Causes of oily skin - Sebaceous glands and sebum

2010-06-04T17:23:00.019+05:30

Basic skin care routine → Oily skin causes - Sebum and sebaceous glands → Oily skin - treatment, cure and home remedies → Dry skin causes and care

Oily skin

Nature has given us a healthy skin lubricant, a water-proofing agent and a moisturizer in the form of an greasy and waxy substance called sebum.

Sebum is made of lipids (fats), wax and cell debris of dead lipid producing cells.

Sebum is produced by microscopic glands called sebaceous glands in the skin and helps in lubricating the epidermis and hair.

Sebaceous glands are distributed through out the body surface with the exception of palms and soles.

In individuals with oily skin, the sebum production is more pronounced on the face and that too on the forehead, around the nose and the chin area (T-zone) where the sebaceous glands are concentrated.

The inner side of the outer ear, neck, back and chest areas also can be problem areas.

In sebaceous glands, sebum is produced within the sebaceous cells and the greasy substance is released when the cells burst.

Apart from cell debris, sebum consists of sapienic acid, squaline, free fatty acids, triglycerides and wax monoesters.

The white, waxy, cheesy substance covering the skin of newborns called 'Vernix caseosa' is mostly the secretions of the sebaceous glands of the fetus.

Sebaceous glands

Causes of oily skin

This useful and welcome sebum secretion, due to various causes, gets produced in excess.

This excess sebum causes dull, thick, shiny and oily skin.

This accumulates dirt and grime and the pores get enlarged and become visible giving coarse look.

With clogging of pores, pimples and blackheads usually form.

A good thing about the oily skin is that it ages slowly and is less prone to wrinkle formation.

Many factors like, hormone levels, puberty, pregnancy, oral pills for birth-control, diet, use of cosmetics, hot and humid weather and certain disease conditions may become the causes of excess sebaceous glands activity and excess sebum production.

Oily skin causes: genetic inheritance

In most cases, hyper activity of the sebaceous glands is brought about by the genetic factors.

People of the Mediterranean region having olive skin with dark hair are found to have more instances of excess sebum production when compared to light colored people of Scots or Scandinavian descent.

If the parents are having hyper active sebaceous glands, then the odds are that the children will also have excess sebum production from their puberty onwards.

Except taking actions to prevent aggravation nothing much can be done in such cases as it is pre-programmed in genes.

With advance of old age such people get relief with reduction in the sebaceous glands activity.

However the health care efforts can change the conditions from a face dotted with big pores, blackheads and pimples to a glossy pleasant face.

Oily skin causes: hormones and their imbalances

Hormone production and fluctuation of hormone levels causes higher sebaceous glands activity and sebum production.

There can be genetic mark up for greater production of certain hormones.

The hormone Dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a metabolite of testosterone hormone appears first at puberty in both boys and girls.

During adolescence, this androgenic hormone apart from stimulating the development of secondary sexual characteristics also causes the growth and enlargement of sebaceous glands.

This leads to sufficient and normal production of sebum leading glossy youthful appearance.

When this hormone is produced in higher levels than normal, or when the sebaceous glands become hyper-sensitive to normal levels of DHT hormone, the real problem starts and causes excess production sebum by the sebaceous glands, resulting in oily skin.

Mensuration cycle also affects and fluctuates DTH levels and causes acne prone greasy epidermis with the rise of progesterone.

Oily skin causes: pregnancy, menopause and birth control pills

Pregnant women are more prone to get over active sebaceous glands and acne.

This is brought about by rapid hormonal changes the body is undergoing during pregnancy.

Oily skin and acne are at the worst in the first trimester.

With the progress of pregnancy the estrogen levels increase and the sebum eases up.

There are a few lucky women for whom pregnancy clears up their persistent teenage greasy face and acne.

Similarly during menopause the female body goes through hormonal changes and causes patches of oily skin and pimples to appear.

Especially women undergoing hormone replacement therapy should watch out for outbreaks of sebaceous glands activity and acne.

Taking birth control pills changes the normal hormone profile. In some instances it increases the androgen activity and results excess sebum production.

Oily skin causes: diet

There is a greater chances for getting oily or dry skin when our diet is not properly balanced with macro and micro nutrients.

The excess consumption of carbohydrates and fats, which we get in junk food, causes excess storage of fats in the body and obesity and trigger sebaceous glands and excess sebum production.

It is found that persons suffering from vitamin B2 deficiency develops hyper active sebaceous glands.

Oily skin causes: cosmetics

Constant and excessive use of cosmetics causes sebaceous glands to be hyper active, producing more sebum and the resultant oily skin.

Synthetic skin care products must be used with care as they can induce sebaceous glands.

Greasy cosmetics have been found to worsen the problem of oily skin.

Harsh soaps and cosmetic products based on alcohol aggravate oily skin.

Intensive use of cosmetics to remove sebum can make the sebaceous glands to produce more of sebum.

Oily skin causes: environment

Hot and humid weather also induces excess activity of sebaceous glands.

Constant sweating also causes the sebaceous glands to over produce sebum and causes oily skin. Pollution also can irritate the skin and result in oily skin as an effort of the body to protect itself.

Oily skin causes: certain diseases

Certain diseases like Polycystic ovary syndrome, Pachydermoperiostosis, Forbes-Albright syndrome, HAIR-AN Syndrome, Acromegaly and Fowler-Christmas-Chapple syndrome have been found to be causes of oily skin by making the sebaceous glands over produce.

Stress and mental tension has been found to induce sebaceous glands to produce more sebum and causes oily skin.

Basic skin care - skin care routine

2010-03-22T16:29:00.018+05:30

Basic skin care routine → Oily skin causes → Oily skin - treatments

Basic skin care in a routine manner is very essential for healthy and youthful appearance.

Our skin is the most exposed organ of our body getting continuously harmed and damaged in a routine manner in our daily activities.
This continuous routine exposure to elements coupled with various internal factors causes it to loose its tenor, develop wrinkles, dryness and dermatitis and age.
Taking daily basic care as a routine helps in retaining the healthy appearance of the skin for longer time. In basic care to keep skin healthy we have to work on three aspects.
The first and foremost of basic care being protecting it from damages and also controlling damages (This topic is discussed in detail in another post). The second aspect of basic care will be to confirm to a daily routine of actions.

The third aspect of basic care will be to treat and overcome the effects of damages (This topic is discussed in detail in another post).

Basic skin care routine

Skin formation is a continuous routine process and the upper most layer (epidermis) dies and is sloughed off continuously. Being an exposed organ it picks up dust and dirt, especially when sweating or wearing make up.

These dirt particles keep accumulating on it and along with dead cells mix with the sweat and sebaceous gland secretions forming a filthy foul smelling layer.
The fungi and bacteria thrive well and start growing, in these moist oily conditions giving the skin bad odor and can cause infections.
So we require to clean our skin very often to get rid of these debris and to keep it healthy. Now the question is how we go about cleaning and taking care of it. There are tried out ways for basic routine cleaning like cleansing, toning, moisturizing and exfoliating.

Routine basic care: cleansing and washing

Cleaning of skin regularly is a basic routine required to remove the dirt from accumulating and choking the pores.
Care must be taken to use very mild soaps as harsh soaps with high pH have the drying effect on the skin robbing it of its natural moisture and removing its acid mantle.
As the basic pH of the top layer is around 4.5 - 6, the soap also must be around the same values and never above neutral levels (pH 7).
Moisten the skin with warm water. Take care to avoid cold or hot water as this tend to dry the natural moisture and stress the cells.
Work up soap lather with your palms and massage the lather on the skin.
Take care not to rub the soap bar directly as pores may get choked by the soap.
Rinse your face thoroughly with splashes of water or with wash towel. Take care to see that no remnants of soap remain.

If soap sticks on and then dries up, it will produce reactions. As a routine use a soft towel to blot and dry the skin. Alternatively you can use mild natural cleansers available at drug stores.
As a routine cleansing once in a day before bed will do. Cleansing too often can also make your skin dry.

In the morning rinse your face with luke warm water.

Basic care routine: toning

You can use skin toner to tighten it and close the pores by its astringents.
Toner makes up for the loss of acid mantle during cleansing, softens any persistent cleanser and restores the pH balance.
Avoid toners with alcohol base as over long use they may affect the elasticity by affecting the collagen below the epidermis.
If you are going to use products having active ingredients, it is better not to use the toners as they may reduce and prevent penetration in to skin.

Basic care routine: moisturizing

Routine application of moisturizers is one of the basic steps in keeping our skin healthy, plush and supple. People with oily skin have lesser requirement of moisturizing as the sebum itself locks in moisture and function as moisturizer.
People with dry skin require to moisturize with oil-water emulsions.
The moisturizers with petroleum products (mineral oils) must be avoided as they may give harmful effects on the long run.
If persons with oily skin require to moisturise they may use oil free humectants like honey, collagen, glycerin and glycol.

Basic care routine: exfoliation

Exfoliation is a basic step in keeping the skin free from the debris of dead cells. In nature, skin undergoes exfoliation continuously in a routine manner.

Young people exfoliate their outer layer of dead epidermis (stratum cornium) faster and only a thin layer of stratum cornium remains.
Their epidermis cleans up in routine cleansing care and do not require to exfoliate by any further treatments. However people in middle age have this exfoliation process slow down, affecting basic cleansing care and have thicker layer of stratum cornium remaining, giving the skin a dull and lifeless appearance.
Persons with very oily epidermis also tend to accumulate thicker layer of stratum cornium and require routine care and exfoliation.
Exfoliation, once or twice in a week will suffice for most of the people. Depending on the resultant condition the frequency may be reduced or increased. α hydroxy acids, β hydroxy acids, enzyme peels, retinoids, scrubs and certain microdermabrasion methods are popular exfoliation basic skin care procedures available.

Beauty salon (enlarge) Instead of starting on basic routine with any product or treatment for exfoliation on your own, consult a dermatologist at least once for advice on best exfoliation method for basic routine care for the type of skin you have.

Following above routine of basic care, you can have healthy and youthful skin appearance.

Image: DaquellaManera

Skin care - Wrinkle free skin care - elasticity of skin

2010-03-18T19:31:00.005+05:30

Wrinkle free skin is a sign of youth and health. Care in food habits and our life style must be taken to keep skin wrinkle free and to maintain its elasticity.

Elasticity of skin and its care

Skin is the largest organ of our body, accounting for about 15% of our body weight.
Elastin and collagen are two proteins concentrated in the dermis region of our skin giving it texture, tone, elasticity and wrinkle free appearance.
Elastin is a protein in connective tissue and it helps the tissues to resume their earlier free state after stretching (elasticity).
Elastin makes the skin to return to its original free position when pinched.
Elastin is composed primarily of amino acids alanine, glycine, valine and proline.

Elastin has more elasticity than collagen. Along with collagen it forms the structure basis and matrix of the dermis giving it elasticity (making it wrinkle free).
Collagen is the strongest protein in our body, giving our body and dermis their durability, strength and elasticity.
The subcutaneous fat just under the dermis further gives it its filled out wrinkle free look.
With aging the subcutaneous fat gets reduced giving the skin a loose and flabby look.
Collagen begins to deteriorate with aging and the dermis starts to thin out and sag loosing its elasticity and wrinkle free look.
With aging elastin also starts to break down and elasticity is lost.

Old woman with young baby boy

Wrinkle free skin care

Young skin is typically wrinkle free and show elasticity as we see in young children and healthy young adults.
With aging slowly it stops being wrinkle free. Understanding the processes involved in the damages to its structure altering its wrinkle free state we can slow down its aging process.
If we take the following simple efforts we can slow down the wrinkle formation and loss of elasticity.

First rule in wrinkle free skin care is reducing the exposure to sun

Take care to avoid exposure to sun as sunlight contains harmful Ultraviolet rays which are the root cause of aging and loss of elasticity of the dermis.
Though we may not realise the bad effects immediately, over years it has a devastating effect on the elasticity and tone of dermis.
Take care to avoid visits to the tanning beds as these also produce the same bad effects, wrinkles and loss of elasticity.
Take care to use sun-shield like sun screens to reduce the exposure.
Take care to wear hat, use umbrella and some protective clothing if you have to go out in the sun.

Cutting down alcohol, smoking and coffee is required for wrinkle free skin care

Take care to reduce alcohol as it interferes with antioxidant activities and promotes cell damage and loss of elasticity.
You might have noticed alcoholists look older than their real age and have wrinkles on their skin.
Also take care to stop smoking and reduce coffee in take as these also interfere with collagen synthesis and antioxidant utilisation by the body.
Apart from causing cancer and lung diseases, smoking increases the free radical activity in the body and skin and leads to oxidative damages of the cells.

Right food for wrinkle free skin care

Finally what we consume is going to show up on our body especially our dermis.
Take care to reduce fats in food and avoid junk food as these add to freeradical activities in the body.
Consume fruits, fruit juices and vegetables to get vitamins and minerals in sufficient quantities to take care of elasticity of your dermis.
Take care to increase the intake of nutrients containing antioxidants.
Take care to follow these precautions and preventive measures to protect the elasticity of your skin and keep it wrinkle free for a longer time.

Skin care: vitamin A for skin care

2010-02-17T15:06:00.006+05:30

Vitamin A is a group of organic compounds having similar biological and chemical activities. Vitamin A is fat soluble vitamin and is essential for skin and vision care. Found in food items of animal origin Retinol is the main easily usable form of vitamin A.

Role in vision care

There are four kinds of photo pigments contained in human retina and they can store vitamin A compounds.

The retinol form has a special role in vision cycle. Rhodopsin, one of the retinal pigments is contained in rod cells of the retina. Rhodopsin is needed for rod cells to detect small amounts of light and to see black and white. Deficiency leads to night blindness by inhibiting the reformation of rhodopsin.

Skin care and immunity care

In the retinoic acid form, Vitamin A, plays an important role in gene transcription. It has active function in maintaining normal skin health and is a ingredient in skin care products. Several immunity connected activities are stimulated by it . It primes up the white blood cells to increase the responses to antigens and has anti-viral activity. It has a positive role in preventing shrinkage of thymus gland.

Care in food habits to prevent vitamin A deficiency

Vitamin A deficiency can occur in adults and in children. Lack of care in consuming adequate quantities of the vitamin’s source foods can lead to primary or secondary levels of deficiency. In new born, early weaning can lead to its deficiency unless care is taken to supplement it. In developing countries, the high incidence of blindness, viral infections, and child mortality due lack of care in food habits leading to its deficiency. In its deficiency the health of the skin, the elasticity of skin, hair, eyes, and immune system are affected. Further poor appetite, bone development abnormalities, and growth retardation are associated with insufficient intake of vitamin A. Hyperkeratosis of skin, a goose pimple like look of the skin caused by excessive production of keratin that blocks hair follicles. The skin becoming dry, scaly and rough and hair is lost.

With proper supplementation and skin care efforts normalcy of the skin can be achieved. Night blindness and total loss of vision can occur in prolonged deficiency by setting in of the condition called Xerophthalmia where in cornea of the eye and conjunctiva undergo change.

Toxicity

Being fat soluble, vitamin A is absorbed and stored in body when in excess.

This excess presence can cause nausea, jaundice, pains and general physical and mental debility. In-take in the form of fruits and vegetables does not usually cause toxicity.

Supplements in the form of tablets and animal sources have to monitored and care must be taken to avoid overdose.

Sources of vitamin A

Animal source of this nutrient include eggs, liver, products of milk fat. Carrots, colored fruits like mangoes, spinach and red pepper are found to abound in vitamin A.

Vitiligo research - Latest research trends

2010-02-09T11:31:00.006+05:30

Vitiligo (leucoderma) > Possible causes > Signs and Symptoms > Diagnosis > Vitiligo camouflage micropigmentation (tattoo) > Autologous Melanocyte Transplantation > Recent research > Support groups
Vitiligo research and treatment methods have made considerable advancements in this decade. Vitiligo research is focused on repigmentation with melanocyes, stem cell transplantation and genetics of vitiligo.

Vitiligo research on autologous melanocyte transplantation

Autologous melanocyte transplantation is being done by harvesting the normal melanocytes of the patient and transplanting them on to the affected skin area.

Very good results are being seen after 6 months with more than 90% success.

Further research is being done to improve on the bio-technology and the methodology for the transplantation.

Comparative evaluation of direct melanocyte transplant versus cultured melanocyte transplant is being made.

Vitiligo research on transplantation of melanocyte stem cells from hair follicle

In this new area of vitiligo research, ways to overcome the limitations in autologous melanocyte transplantation are being probed.

The limitations are in invasive tissue sampling and in cumbersome melanocyte extraction and culture procedures.
It is found that the hair follicle melanocytes apart from migrating up a hair follicle and giving it colour, are also capable of moving out to the surrounding melanin deficient epidermis.
Further it is found that undifferentiated melanocytes or stem cells are present in the outer root sheath of hair follicle.
The transplantation of these stem cells will repopulate the deficient skin with active melanocytes. This area requires further investigation and refining.

Vitiligo research on stimulating deeper perifollicular melanocytes by focused ultraviolet B rays of 311 (nm) with optic fibre

In the UVB therapy for leucoderma further strides have been made on the delivery of the rays. General exposure has been found to hasten the photo-aging of the skin.

In the latest method now being used and perfected is the apt selection of the required wave length of Uv rays and its delivery mechanism.
Instead of generalised exposure of the affected area with the UVB rays, filters and methods are being evolved to only deliver UVB rays of 311[nm] and reduce the ill-effects of the full spectrum.
Further it is found that the melanocytes in the deeper perifollicular area are not affected by the causative factors of vitiligo.

These dormant melanocytes are selectively stimulated to proliferate and produce melanin.

The UVB rays are delivered by a optic fibre with control for the extent and duration of exposure.

Vitiligo research on genetic predisposition to the disease

Research is in progress to identify the deregulated genes giving rise to depigmentation.

About 800 genes have been identified for the hereditary affliction of this disorder.

The genetic association of this disorder with inflammatory diseases and autoimmune diseases is being probed.

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Updated in July 2011.

Vitiligo cure - Repigmentation - Autologous melanocyte transplantation

2010-01-26T21:22:00.012+05:30

Vitiligo (Leucoderma) > Possible causes > Signs and symptoms > Differential diagnosis > Vitiligo tattoo > Vitiligo cure - repigmentation - melanocyte transplantation > Recent research > Support groups
Repigmentation by autologous melanocyte transplantation is a possible vitiligo cure in patients with focal or segmental vitiligo.

What is repigmentation by autologous melanocyte transplantation?

In this procedure for vitiligo cure, the normal melanocytes of the patient are harvested from his own normal skin, cultured in a medium and transferred to grow on the vitiligo affected area of skin.

In this repigmentation procedure there is least chance for the rejection of the transplanted melanocytes by his skin and complete cure can be achieved.

Patient's suitability for achieving vitiligo cure with repigmentation by autologous melanocyte transplantation

Not all vitiligio patients can get cure from this repigmentation surgery.

In active and progressive vitiligio, cure cannot be contemplated as fresh areas of skin keep losing melanocytes.

If the vitiligo is stable and nonprogressive for more than a year then this procedure of autologous melanocyte transplantation can be considered.

Vitiligo cure is possible with repigmentation by autologous transplantation in patients with focal or segmental vitiligo.

The affected area of skin must not be extensive as normal donor skin is required for the culture of the melanocytes transplantation.

In patients with Koebner phenomenon, vitiligo cure is not possible as linear depigmentation may start after the autologous transplantation.

Patients with keloid tendency and collagen disorder cannot undergo autologous repigmentation for cure of vitiligio, as keloid scars can develop at the sites of autologous melanocyte transplantation.

Patients with infections, especially of skin have to be treated and totally free of the ailment to be considered for this vitiligio cure.

In this melanocyte transplantation for repigmentation, a strict selection of the canditates for the procedure and a long pretreatment observation is necessary to prevent failures.

Surgical procedure for achieving vitiligo cure with repigmentation by autologous transplantation

After anaesthetising the donor skin area of the patient a thin layer of 5-10 sq.cm of epidermis layer of skin is removed (excellent results with silver skin graft knife).

Care must be taken not injure the dermis, as injury to the dermis can cause scars at the donor site.

Alternatively an electric vacumn suction pump can be used to cause a blister at the donor skin area and the top of the blister is removed.

This epidermis layer is incubated for about one hour in trypsin and if any pieces dermis present is separated from the epidermis.

The epidermis is made into very small pieces and kept in the culture medium for further growth before the autologous melanocytes transplantation.

The culture is centrifuged to separate out the melanocytes.

Alternatively the separated melanocytes can be directly transplanted with out further culture.

The vitiligo patch is prepared for autologous transplantation surgery and local anaesthesia is given.

Dermabrasion is done with laser or micromotor and the epidermis is removed.

Care must be taken not to injure dermis layer as injury to dermis may cause scars and cure by autologous repigmentation can get affected.

After the removal of epidermis, the melanocyte suspension is uniformly applied over the exposed dermis layer and the wound is covered with dressing of collagen.

The dressing is removed after a week. The treated patch may appear pink when the dressing is removed.

In about a month, repigmentation will start. The repigmentation covers up the entire area in four months.

In some patients another visit is required for achieving 100% pigmentation and cure.

Advantages of vitiligo cure with repigmentation by autologous transplantation

For vitiligo cure with autologous repigmentation hospitalization is not required.

In most of the cases near 100% results are seen.

Autologous repigmentation can be done on any area of the body.

Larger areas can be covered with melanocyte transplantation with small patches of epidermis; Aesthetic appearance is regained.

Normally no scars are caused in vitiligo cure with repigmentation by autologous melanocyte transplantation.

Idiopathic guttate hypomelanosis

2010-01-24T07:56:00.001+05:30

White bumps on skin, lips, fingernails, teeth, tonsils and genitalia > Idiopathic guttate hypomelanosis > Causes - symptoms - diagnosis > Treatment

Idiopathic guttate hypomelanosis are common acquired white spots of hypopigmentation on the skin usually on shins and forearms.

The name of this disorder is self-explaining about the problem.

The reason for these white spots is not clearly known (Idiopathic).

The spots (macules) are 'drops' like (guttate), small in size (2-5 mm) and hypopigmented (hypomelanosis).

In some cases lesions measuring up to 10 mm diameter have been observed.

The causes for these white spots is not completely investigated and it is believed that sun exposure causes it.

It is further believed that the UV range of the sunlight could be the culprit.

These tiny white spots are usually formed on the forearms and shin regions of the body which are usually exposed more to sunlight.

They may also form on the other exposed parts of the body like shoulders, neck and face.

These white spots have been found to affect far more women than men.

Fair skinned people are found to be affected more frequently and at a younger age.

This disorder usually begins around the age of 30 years and it is also believed to be the part of the aging process.

Idiopathic guttate hypomelanosis on forearm

Idiopathic guttate hypomelanosis, typically develops on the legs, more particularly on the shins of the fair-skinned women in their early thirties.

Later idiopathic guttate hypomelanosis slowly progresses to cover forearms, shoulders and neck.

A familial (genetic) acquirement of these idiopathic guttate hypomelanosis white spots has been noted, requiring further research in this aspect.

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Vitiligo camouflage by micropigmentation (tattoo skin implants)

2010-01-22T17:21:00.010+05:30

Vitiligo > Possible causes > Signs and symptoms > Diagnosis > Vitiligo camouflage micropigmentation (tattoo) > Melanocyte transplants > Recent research > Support groups

Skin micropigmentation is an ideal vitiligo camouflage for focal vitiligo with non-progressive and static patches.

What is micropigmentation?

The repigmentation of the skin can be done by the procedure called micropigmentation (camouflage tattoo) in cases wherein the other treatments have failed or the responses have been poor.

Vitiligo micropigmentation is usually done on facial skin and other smaller skin areas to improve the aesthetic appearance of the affected person.

In this vitiligo camouflage micropigmentation technique artificial pigments are implanted into the skin uniformly, by using special surgical tattoo equipments. The pigment particles must be metabolically inert so that after completion of tattoo, the micropigmentation areas of skin do not get change in the pigments due to biological processes.

Colors like black, white (titanium oxide), camel yellow, brown (iron oxide), red (mercuric sulphate, cinnabar) are used in vitiligo camouflage.

In sterile environment the colors are mixed and blended to get a very close match to the skin colour of the patient. Sterile water and glycerine are added to get a paste of this pigment powder.

The expertise, experience and training of the professional play a great part in the success of this secientific vitiligo tattoo procedure.

Requirements for skin micropigmentation

Both hand held mechanical pin vice or eletrically operated machine can be used.

Pin vice to hold 8-10 needles is selected. If it is eletrically operated device, needle bar with 2-6 needles is prefered.

Antiseptic lotion is required to clean the skin area where tattoo camouflage is to be done.

Local anaesthesia is required, so that the person under going micropigmentation will not feel pain or distressed.

High quality pigments and base materials are required.

For micropigmentation surgical bed with proper lighting is required.

Oral and topical antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medicines are required.

Suitability of patient for vitiligo micropigmentation

Patient with focal and non progressive vitiligo (for the past one year) is suitable for skin micropigmentation.

Micropigmentation is contra indicated in patients with progressive vitiligo.

This skin camouflage vitiligo tattoo may not be done on a person with HIV as the affected area may throw up more problems to the patient like infections especially of herpes simplex virus.

Vitiligo camouflage tattoo is also contra indicated in persons with collagen disorder and keloid tendency.

The vitiligo camouflage is also contra indicated if the person is suffering from any infectious disease and particularly of skin.

In such persons the procedure may be done after total cure and resolution of the skin infection and after proper evaluation of the present skin condition of the patient by a dermatologist.

Persons with medical history of psoriasis and skin allergies must consult a dermatologist before opting for vitiligo tattoo camouflage.

Procedure of vitiligo camouflage tattoo

As in any surgical procedure, the consent of the patient is taken for camouflage tattoo.

The machines and the equipment to be used for micropigmentation are sterilized properly.

The site of the skin wherein camouflage micropigmentation is to be done is surgically prepared.

The right blend of pigments for vitaligo tattoo for getting a color very close to the colour of surrounding skin is made.

This is of vital importance as in improper blending the patient may end up with different tattoo color patches.

The pigment paste is applied on the vitaligo area and tattoo is done.

After completion the excess pigment is wiped off and the area is carefully observed for vitaligo spots wherein the pigment is not sufficiently implanted.

These areas are again applied with the pigment paste and tattooed to achieve uniform pigmentation.

To reduce inflammation cold sponge is pressed on the spot for some time.

Antibiotic and anti-inflammatory medicines are given to ward of infection and reduce inflammation and pain.

Advantage of vitiligo camouflage tattoo

In micropigmentation immediate camouflage of the vitiligo white skin patch is seen.

Compared to other vitiligo procedures, camouflage is less expensive.

In other vitaligo procedures there may be poor response to the treatment while in vitiligo tattoo mostly satisfactory resuts are obtained.

In tattoo camouflage procedure hospitalisation is not required and the patient can return home after micropigmentation.

Camouflage micropigmentation can be done at any affected part of body.

Possible complications and side effects in vitiligo micropigmentation camouflage

In some persons the vitaligo tattoo procedure may induce allergic reactions.

After all the care taken for matching the color of the normal skin with the tattoo pigment, sometimes there may be mismatches in some cases of micropigmentation.

Sometime there may be leaching of the pigment making the micropigmentation area look pale.

In some cases the skin shades of the camouflage tattoo may change.

Diagnosis of Leukoderma-Skin depigmentation-White patches of skin

2010-01-19T11:46:00.007+05:30

White patches and spots on skin, lips, fingernails, teeth, tonsils and genitalia > Leukoderma (Vitiligo) > Causes > Signs > Leucoderma - Diagnosis - skin depigmentation - white patches of skin > Treatment and cure > Recent research > Support

Leukoderma, which is skin depigmentation and appearance of white patches of skin can be diagnosed by visual observation, physical examination, analysis of medical history, differential diagnosis and laboratory tests.

Visual and physical examination for diagnosis of leukoderma.

Irregular white patches of skin, especially on sunlight exposed ares of body such as hands, feet, arms and face can make the doctor to suspect the possibility of leukoderma.

The prominence of skin depigmentation on the face particularly around mouth, eyes, nostrils and ears and also around the other orifices of the body like umbilicus, anal opening and genital opening could be the indicator of leukoderma disease.

Physical examination white patches is also done to look for the presence of other depigmentation diseases, dermatitis and psoriasis.

Analysis of medical history for the diagnosis of leukoderma

The medical history of the patient is analysed.

If the patient suffers premature greying of hair, the white patches could be vitiligo.

In a patient having family history of leukoderma in near blood relatives this depigmentation may be leukoderma.

If the patient had in the recent past sunburn, burn injury, physical or mental stress or illness there is a likelihood of these white patches turning out to be vitiligo.

Patients with the medical history of sun sensitivity or autoimmune diseases are likely to get this depigmentation disease.

Laboratory tests and differential diagnosis of leukoderma

Laboratory tests are carried out to differentiate and diagnose this white patches disease.

Samples from the vitiligo suspected areas are taken and examined under microscope. Depigmentation affected area will be devoid of melanin producing cells (melanocytes).

If inflamed cells are observed in the sample, the white patches of depigmentation could be due to some other underlying cause.

KOH test is done to rule out fungal infections being the cause of depigmentation.

As in many cases vitiligo is associated to hyperthyroidism or pernicious anemia, blood test is carried to check the possibility of the presence of these conditions.

Blood test is done to check for the presence of autoimmune disease by looking for the antinuclear antibodies.

Sometimes inflammation of the eye occurs in vitiligo patients. Eye examination of the patient is done to look for possibility.

In the diagnosis if these white patches of skin are proved to be leukoderma, various options for treating this skin depigmentation have to be considered.

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Leucoderma signs - White patches on skin - Loss of skin pigmentation

2010-01-16T17:03:00.010+05:30

White spots on skin, lips, fingernails, teeth, tonsils and genitalia > Leucoderma (vitiligo) white patches on skin > Causes > Signs > Diagnosis - Treatment and cure - Recent research > Support

Signs of leucoderma

There are clear cut visual signs of leucoderma.
Loss of skin pigmentation occurs in leucoderma giving rise to white patches on skin.
These patches of loss of pigmentation are flat and even in level with rest of the dermis.
There is normally no scale formation in the lesion areas.
These white patches prominently occur on the extremities like hands and feet.

Initially in leucoderma, the loss of pigmentation occurs as small spots and it progresses to cover larger areas with different shapes.
The loss of pigmentation initially appears to be connected to the parts of the body exposed more to sun.
These areas of loss of skin pigmentation are prominent on the face, feet, wrists and hands.
Another tel-tale sign of this disease of white patches is depigmentation around the orifices of the body like mouth, nostrils, eyes, ears, genitalia, anus and umbilicus.

Hand affected by vitiligo

In some cases these white patches with loss of pigmentation show hyperpigmentation on the margin of the lesions.
The hair growing on the lesion area also loses pigment and turns grey.
In the vitiligo affected there is premature graying or whitening of hair on the head, eye brows, eyelashes or beard.
In dark skinned people the inside of the mouth may also loses colour.
Leucoderma is more noticeable in dark skinned people.
Exposure to sun makes the lesions more noticeable and can cause sun burn.

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Causes of vitiligo skin disease - loss of skin pigment - white patches

2010-01-13T16:53:00.015+05:30

White spots on skin, lips, fingernails, teeth, tonsils and genitalia > Vitiligo white skin patches > Causes > Signs > Diagnosis - Treatment and cure - Recent research > Support

Vitiligo causes loss of skin pigment giving rise to white skin patches.

Vitiligo disease causes depigmentation of the skin in patches. There are a number of possible causes for the onset of the disease. This disorder of white patches is believed to be primarily brought about by an autoimmune disease.

Autoimmunity causes vitiligo disorder

The most strong and accepted view about the causes of loss of pigmentation is autoimmunity.

In an autoimmune disease an individual's immune system reacts and destroys his own organs and body tissues.

In vitiligo disorder, the immune system produces certain proteins known as cytokines (immunomodulating agents) which target and alter the pigment producing melanocytes and leads to their gradual death resulting in white skin patches.
There is another view that some autoimmune factor causes the self destruction of melanocytes and loss of pigment.
Persons already affected by other autoimmune disorders like psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis and thyroid disease have the greater risk of loss of pigmentation.
The autoimmune disease of the adrenal glands (Addison's disease) has been associated with the occurrence of this disorder.
Vitiligo affected hand Thyroid disorder causes the disease with white patches having no pigment.
Inflammatory and autoimmune diseases of thyroid glands lead to their over expression or under expression.
Persons with this thyroid impairment have been found prone to loss of pigment.

Hereditary factors in loss of pigment

Strong evidence is pointing towards inheritance in persons whose close blood relatives already have this disorder.
There is a great possibility of children of the vitiligo affected parents developing this white patches.
It has been found that 30% of the persons affected by this disorder have at least one family member affected by the disorder of loss of skin pigment.
Individuals with vitiligo pigment disorder seem to inherit a batch of multiple genes which make them susceptible to loss of pigmentation.
Physiological conditions and stress like sun burn and skin injury sometimes seem to be one of the causes for white patches.
Psychological stress triggers and leads to loss of pigment.
Environmental factors can also be the reason for white vitiligo patches.

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Vitiligo - skin disease - depigmentation - white skin patches

2010-01-06T07:51:00.011+05:30

White spots on skin, lips, fingernails, teeth, tonsils and genitalia > Vitiligo white skin patches > Causes > Signs > Diagnosis - Treatment and cure > Recent research > Support

Vitiligo is a skin disorder or disease in which there is loss of skin pigment resulting in white depigmentation patches.

What is vitiligo (leucoderma or leukoderma)?

Our skin color is due to the melanin pigment present in it. The melanin pigment is produced by specialised cells in the epidermis called melanocytes.

The melanin pigment is formed into bundles called melanosomes and deposited in the epidermis.

Due to some physiological conditions there is stoppage of pigment production or death and loss of the pigment producing cells in patches and white areas of depigmentation occur.

This condition of loss of pigmentation is called vitiligo (leucoderma or leukoderma).

Causes for vitiligo disorder

Though the basic cause of this disease is the depigmentation of the skin there are divergent views, theories and research results pointing to many possible factors like physiological conditions, hereditary disorders, genetic disorders, environmental factors, thyroid disorders, psychological stress and autoimmune diseases.

For more details about the causes read the page ' causes for vitiligo disorders'.

Who can be affected by this condition of depigmentation?

Worldwide it is estimated that this condition of loss of skin pigment is affecting 1-2% of the population.

This disease affects all races and both genders and appears prominent in dark skinned people.

Persons with auto immune disease and thyroid disorder are prone to get vitiligo disorder.

The chances for the immediate relatives of an affected person to get this disorder are greater.

Patterns and types of vitiligo disease

Three types of this loss of skin pigmentation, namely focal, segmental and non-segmental vitiligo are observed.

In the focal form of the disorder, the white patches are restricted to one or a few areas.

In non-segmented form the white patches appear on both sides and somewhat show symmetry.

These white patches of skin grow over a period of time to spread all over the body.

If the depigmentation is total or only a few pigment patches remain, the condition is called as vitiligo universalis.

Segmented vitiligo disease affects younger individuals. The disorder affects some parts of the body and may not appear in symmetry.

Diagnosis of white skin patches

Vitiligo disease appear as white skin patches around orifices of the body like mouth, nostrils, eyes etc. They also appear on the end of the limbs like fingers and toes.

These white patches are irregular in shape and keep growing in most of the affected persons. For more detail about diagnosis of the disorder read 'Diagnosis of vitiligo disease'.

Therapy and treatment for vitiligo skin disease

There is a difference between the approach towards this disorder between the western medicine and the oriental medicine.

In oriental medicine the claim is that it is addressing the underlying cause of the disease.

There are number of ways to alter the appearance in the vitiligo skin disease affected.

The white vitiligo disease patches can be hidden by application of camouflage creams and skin dyes.

Further treatment methods for the disease like topical application, oral medicine, phototherapy, surgical grafts, repigmentation and treatment with melanocyte cultures are possible.

For detail information on treatment of this disorder read the page "Therapy and treatment of vitiligo disease".

Psychological and aesthetic aspects of the disorder of loss of skin pigment

Though this disease has no harmful effects on the body, it devastates the mental health of the affected person leading him to mood and depression disorders.

The loss of aesthetic appearance and being stigmatised for the condition ruins the self-esteem and emotional health of the person affected by the disorder.

Those affected by this disease are tormented sub-consciously about others reactions, feel ashamed, embarrassed and dejected and may become introverts.

Support groups for the vitiligo disease affected

Considering the psychological impact of this disorder all over the world, a number of organisations have come up to help out the affected by educating them and providing them advice, counsel and course of treatment for the disease.

These efforts are to save the affected from becoming a burden on the society just because of this harmless skin condition.

Research on pigmentation, depigmentation and repigmentation of this skin disorder

Wide spread research is going on to tackle this disorder. Methods for repigmentation of these white skin patches are already known and further research is going on .

If the vitiligo disorder has affected more than 50% area, a process for depigmentation of the rest of the skin pigment is now known. Further research is being carried out in this aspect of tackling vitiligo disease.

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Olive oil	1 tablespoon
Castor oil	¼ tablespoon
water	1 tablespoon

honey	1 tablespoon
yogurt	2 tablespoons
egg white (whipped)	1 tablespoon

honey	2 tablespoons
glycerin	2 tablespoons
witch hazel	1 tablespoon

cocoa butter (heated)	2 tablespoons
egg-yolk	from one egg
lemon juice	2 tablespoons

aloe Vera gel	2 tablespoons
coconut oil	2 tablespoons
water	2 tablespoons

jojoba oil	2 tablespoons
coconut oil	2 tablespoons
Castor oil	½ tablespoon
water	2 tablespoons

bee wax (melt)	2 tablespoons
Shea butter (melt)	2 tablespoons
coconut oil	1 tablespoon
water	1 tablespoon

honey	1 tablespoon
apple juice (fresh)	2 tablespoons
lemon juice	1 tablespoon

honey	2 tablespoons
watermelon juice	2 tablespoons
lemon juice	1 tablespoon

honey	2 tablespoons
avocado pulp	2 tablespoons
lemon juice	1 tablespoon

aloe Vera juice	2 tablespoons
rose water	2 tablespoons
glycerin	1 tablespoon