dry skin Tag

Skin-Care Tips for Children

The skin is the largest organ of the body, so it’s essential to teach your child some important tips to maintain a healthy complexion. Establishing a solid skin-care routine will help prevent certain issues in the future. Kids are constantly exposed to high levels of dirt and germs, so it’s crucial that they learn how to properly care for their skin. Starting early will ensure that they will continue caring for their skin into adulthood. Here are a few things to keep in mind.

Find the Right Products

There are numerous soaps, creams, lotions, and other skin-care products on store shelves. When caring for your child, it is important to avoid items that contain chemicals like sulfates and parabens. Finding a brand that targets sensitive skin is best. Reading labels will help you to choose a line of products that will work well for your child.

Face Washing

Bar soaps can be incredibly drying, so it is wise to uncover a face wash that is gentle but removes excess dirt and oils. Kids do not want to use products that are sticky or heavy. A mild soap will prevent redness and dryness.

Besides the soap, it is important to understand the right water temperature to use. Although many people believe that hot water is best for pores, it is actually better to use lukewarm water. Hot water often disrupts skin’s natural oils. 

Preventing Dry Skin

It is essential to moisturize your child’s skin, especially since dryness is a common issue with youngsters. Vaseline is an excellent product that does not cause irritation but will prevent dry skin conditions.

Many parents do not realize that it is not necessary to bathe young children every day. Taking a shower or bath three times a week is enough to keep your child clean without harming his or her skin. Also, it is best to avoid hot water. Teach your child to rub gently with a soft washcloth or sponge instead of scrubbing too hard as well.

In the summer months, chlorine or salt water may cause the skin to dry, especially if he or she spends a lot of time swimming in the pool or at the beach. Applying a gentle moisturizer and washing off the salt or chlorine is the key to maintaining healthy skin.

Drink Water

Many children do not like drinking water. However, it is an essential part of their diets. As parents, you must make sure that your kids drink enough water to remain hydrated, especially during the warm months of summer. This is usually the time when children are running wild and sweating. Besides serious health conditions, dehydration can cause the skin to become very dry.

Two easy ways to get children to drink more water is limit their choices (offer them milk or water instead of adding other drinks) and add fruit for a little more flavor! Click here to read more tips on this from Cincinnati Children’s Hospital. 

Pay Attention to the Seasons

In the winter, children enjoy playing outdoors in the snow. However, it is crucial to keep their skin protected. Always cover their hands and faces so that the wind does not cause burning. Even if it seems to be overcast, sunscreen is essential as well. The sun’s rays reflect off of the snowy conditions and can still cause a sunburn. Since a home’s heat is commonly running full-time during the winter months, the air can be extremely dry. It is wise to run a humidifier indoors so that moisture is restored to the atmosphere. This will guard skin as well.

Things are a bit more complicated during the spring and summer months. These are the seasons when the sun is the strongest. It is vital to use sunscreen on your children at all times. When choosing a product, it is important to look for an SPF of 30 or more. Also, it should protect against UVA and UVB rays. If your child will be swimming, a water-resistant product is recommended.

For maximum sun protection, it is best to apply sunscreen approximately 30 minutes before your child will head outside. Make sure to cover all areas of his or her body, including the hands, neck, ears, and shoulders. Dermatologists advise using an ounce of product to cover the body and reapplying every two hours. Protecting from burns will help to avoid signs of aging in the future and will guard against the development of skin cancer.

The Teen Scene

During the teen years, acne becomes common. Learning how to keep skin clean and choosing the right products will keep breakouts to a minimum.

Normal skin should be washed with a mild soap each day. Dry skin should be cleansed and moisturized to maintain a healthy balance. Oily skin should be cleaned with soap and water. Certain products are available to help dissolve oil as well.

When pimples form, it is crucial to never pop them. Bacteria may spread, or scarring may result. If acne is severe, products that contain benzoyl peroxide may help.

When you want to take the best care of your child’s skin, consult with the experts at our office. We will take time to explain more tips that will help you ensure the healthiest skin for your family. We tend to patients of all ages. If your child is suffering from a skin condition or simply wants to learn a proper skin-care routine, contact us to schedule a consultation today.

Skin Care Tips for Men

Healthy skin and skin care routines are not just for women, men need to take care of their skin as well. Your skin is the barrier protecting your body from the outside elements, so protecting it is very important for your overall health. Here are some skin care tips for men.

What is a Holistic Approach to My Skin Care and Health?

A holistic approach to health involves treating your body as a machine. This means that each part needs to be tended to in order to keep the other parts functioning properly. Here are some ways you can take care of your body holistically:

1. Be Attentive to Your Whole Body

When many people think of skin care and dermatology, they only think of the skin on the face. However, skin care is about total body care. While it is true that some areas of the skin may be more sensitive or easily noticeable than others, it is a single organ that needs to be tended to. Therefore, use products that protect all of your skin—this includes full-body moisturization and finding a soap or body wash that does not dry out your skin.

2. Eat Well

There are some people who can eat poorly without seeing negative effects on their skin. However, for most of us, what we eat and how we live will directly affect our skin. As such, the first step to healthy skin is usually the same as taking the first step toward good general health—eat well and drink plenty of water.

Opt for natural, organic, and non-processed food items during mealtimes. A great place to start is increasing your fruit and vegetable intake. If you eat meat, stick to a leaner variety. Avoid sugars, sodas, and overly-salty foods.

 

3. Exercise Regularly

Be sure to get regular, vigorous exercise as well. Exercise helps you exfoliate the skin, release toxins, manage your weight, and metabolize the food you eat. We recommend exercising each day at varying levels of intensity for at least half an hour.

 

4. Rest Well

Be sure to get the rest you need. Deep, relaxing sleep helps the body recuperate and replenish itself. This includes the skin. Without sufficient rest, the skin is likely to look aged, wrinkled, or swollen. The opposite is also true. Periods of physical and mental rest can do wonders for your total health and skin.

 

5. Keep Stress Levels Low

We may not be able to control all that we face, but we can manage how we respond to it. Developing a system of coping mechanisms—from meditation to nature walks—is a good place to start. This will prevent stress lines and promote overall well-being.

Should I Develop a Skin-Care Routine?

Yes! What you do to your skin topically is just as important to how well you eat and otherwise take care of yourself. The products you use and the actions you take can directly affect the look and feel of your skin. While it is often the last thing men think about, a skin-care routine including cleansing, moisturizing, and utilizing anti-aging options is the place to start.

Why is Moisturizing Important?

Many people undervalue and underutilize moisturizing, particularly men. Some consider it to be too feminine, while others are simply unaware of the value of a good moisturizer for one’s skin, and especially for men. Now that you have been informed, your next step is to seek out a moisturizer that works for you.

Admittedly, because men and women are different, it is important that men choose from among the moisturizers that are engineered for their skin.

What is a Good Shaving Routine to Protect My Skin?

Shaving is an important part of grooming for men. It is important to do it properly to avoid razor burn and other skin irritations. Therefore, when shaving your face, use this checklist:

• Wet your facial hair thoroughly.
• Use a high-quality shaving cream—these usually moisturize the skin and are less irritating to sensitive skin.
• Use high-quality shaving tools including a beard brush and a quality razor with clean and frequently-changed blades.
• Cleanse properly after shaving and use an aftershave lotion.

Should I Do Anything Differently for My Skin in the Winter?

All the aforementioned tips are great for every season of the year and should be practiced daily. However, these tips are particularly important for those times of the year when the weather is harshest.

In other words, it is even more important to use an effective moisturizer during the drying winter months. Contrary to popular belief, it is also important to wear sunscreen during these colder months. Cold weather does not mean the sun can no longer cause burns or other skin damage. Also, increasing water intake during these months can help. Adequate hydration maintains fresh, youthful-looking skin and serves as great support for the other topical options you are using.

Contact Us for More Skin Care Options

Here at Universal Dermatology and Vein Care, we offer skin care services, treatments, and product options that both men and women can benefit from. Available options are tailored to suit a wide range of skin conditions and skin-care goals and routines. The best place to start is by scheduling a consultation with one of our qualified dermatologists. Contact us today!

Patch Testing for Contact Dermatitis

Have you experienced redness and irritation after using a skin-care product or trying out a new detergent? How about a skin reaction with no explanation? If so, you may have suffered from contact dermatitis, which occurs when contact with chemicals causes irritation or allergic reaction. Although most cases are not severe, contact dermatitis can be unpleasant and also frustrating if the cause is not clear.

Allergic Contact Dermatitis

Allergic contact dermatitis is an immune response to an allergen. It can be itchy and can also make the skin dry, flaky, or scaly. However, the symptoms associated with this allergic reaction depend on your skin’s sensitivity. This substance may bring about other symptoms including oozing blisters, redness, leathery appearance, burning sensation, hives, sun sensitivity, and swelling.

 Patch Testing and Why It’s Necessary

If you already know what you’re allergic to, that’s great! It will be much easier for you to avoid these chemicals and ingredients. However, if you came in contact with an allergen by accident, it is best to consult with a dermatologist to get the skin treatment you need. For those who suddenly develop patches of dermatitis due to unknown causes, patch testing is necessary.

Metals, leather, rubber, and cosmetics, for example, contain a number of chemicals that can cause allergic reactions. Through patch testing, you and your doctor will be able to identify the allergen. This will help your dermatologist determine which treatment is right for your skin and will be able to help you avoid the allergen in the future.

How Does Patch Testing Work?

An experienced dermatologist will perform the patch test. During the test, small amounts of certain substances are applied to your skin and secured with hypoallergenic tape. These are usually placed on the upper back to ensure they are not disturbed. You will need to come back after 48 hours to get the patches removed. At this time, your dermatologist will do a thorough examination of your skin’s reaction to the substances. Two additional days later, the specialist will examine the spots again to see if there is any delayed reaction.

Dermatologists have a standard set of substances they test on individuals with suspected Allergic Contact Dermatitis. This includes Balsam of Peru, benzocaine, lanolin or wool alcohols, rosin, rubber accelerators, quaternium-15, formaldehyde resin, formaldehyde, p-tert butylphenol, plants, paraben mix, paraphenylenediamine, nickel, neomycin, fragrances, imidazolidinyl urea, ethylenediamine, cobalt, epoxy resin, clioquinol, and chrome. This list includes additives in leather, ointments, clothes, and other items we come in contact with on a regular basis.

Please note that if your dermatologist suspects other allergens, more patches will be added for testing. This can include substances that you come in contact with in your workplace or substances contained in your specific makeup or creams. Bringing in samples of the products you use would also be useful to your doctor, especially if you suspect one of these products is causing the allergic reaction.

Test Results

Once the test results are in, your dermatologist will be able to give you details on what caused your recent allergic reaction. Your dermatologist will give you advice on how to avoid the substance you are allergic to. If the results reveal that you do not suffer from allergic contact dermatitis, you will be able to rule it out and your doctor can proceed with other tests to determine what is causing the skin irritation.

Irritant Contact Dermatitis

If an irritant caused the contact dermatitis, the symptoms are slightly different. This can include skin blistering and cracking because of extreme dryness, stiff or tight skin, swelling, ulcerations, and open sores. This form of contact dermatitis is caused by skin injuries due to environmental factors, chemicals, or friction. The severity of the condition can vary depending on the strength of the irritant, frequency or length of exposure, and skin susceptibility.

Solvents you have come in contact with including detergents, metalworking fluids, adhesives, acid, alkalis, friction, and water can also cause it. Sometimes, two or more of these irritants act together in irritating the skin.

Anyone can experience irritant contact dermatitis if they come into contact with an irritant. However, those who suffer from atopy (a predisposition to allergic reactions) are more susceptible to the condition.

Testing for Irritant Contact Dermatitis

Because this condition can coexist with allergic contact dermatitis, your dermatologist may decide to perform the test to rule this out. The rash typically heals on its own as long as you avoid exposure to the irritant, but special treatment is available if needed. Be sure to contact your dermatologist to get the right treatment for the condition.

If it’s necessary that you handle the irritant again, make sure to cover up and protect your skin. However, try to avoid them altogether if possible.

Patch testing is important to prevent and treat redness, irritation, and itching caused by contact with an allergen or irritant. If you think you may be experiencing contact dermatitis or would like to prevent it, contact us today.

Preventing Dry Skin in the Winter

As the weather begins to change, cold winds and dry air can lead to red, itchy, and cracked skin. This is why now is the time to adjust your skincare routine. Here are some tips to help you prevent dry skin and keep your skin feeling its best during the cold season:

Use a Humidifier

One of the main reasons skin dries out in the winter is the lack of humidity in the air. It is best to use a humidifier in your house and work environment. If you have to choose one place, our advice would be the bedroom. Here, your skin will be exposed to moisture in the air throughout the night and keep it fresh for the day ahead.

Change Your Shower Routine

Some people take warmer and longer showers during the winter months. While this is great for defrosting cold toes, the steam will dilate pores and allow extra water to evaporate from your skin. Warm water also strips natural oils away. If you have to use warm water when you bathe, try to shorten your time in the shower. Drying appropriately is also important to keep your skin healthy.  You should not rub your body because the towel is abrasive against the skin and may cause irritation, as well as dry skin to flake off and patches to spread. Instead, try gently patting away the water.

Stay Hydrated

Although you should always drink plenty of water throughout the day, it is particularly important during the winter months. You should drink 8-10 glasses of water per day. This will help to keep moisture in your skin. This is especially helpful if you frequently consume alcohol and coffee, which are diuretics and dehydrate you.

Protect Your Skin from the Outside Elements

When you must go outside, it is essential to protect your skin. You should cover any exposed areas with a scarf, gloves, and a hat. On a windy day, your skin may become dry and red from exposure. Also, winter may be a dark season, but the sun still shines brightly on certain days.  It is necessary to wear a moisturizing sunscreen that will keep your skin protected from the sun as well.

Remove Makeup Carefully

The way you remove your makeup at the end of the night can dry out your skin. Many women use convenient cosmetic remover wipes, but, most of these products contain alcohol or similar ingredients that can be extremely drying. A better alternative is cold cream (an emulsion of water and oil). This item has been around since the second-century but still has a lot of great qualities. It will add moisture to your skin while effectively removing makeup.

Choose the Perfect Moisturizer

If you enter any store, you probably are bombarded with hundreds of moisturizing products. It is important to know how to choose a product that works for your specific skin type.

You may wonder whether to use a lotion, ointment, or cream. The difference is the amount of water that each contains. Most lotions are comprised of a high volume of water when compared to the other ointments and creams.  This means that if you have extremely dry skin, a cream or ointment is a smarter option. As you read the ingredient labels, look for a product that contains humectants. These draw moisture from the inner layer of your skin to the other layers. A common humectant is a glycerin. Another helpful ingredient is an occlusive agent (Lanolin, mineral oil, or paraffin). These will create a barrier to your skin that seals in moisture and adds a protective wall.

Be sure to apply moisturizer after showering (and drying off correctly). You should also have a bottle of hand cream available at home and at work. This is especially important if you frequently wash your hands throughout the day.

Visit a Trusted Dermatologist

The best way to care for your skin during cold weather is to visit a dermatologist. An experienced doctor can offer more preventative tips that will keep your skin from drying out. They will also be able to provide recommendations based on your specific skin condition and type.

At Universal Dermatology & Vein Care, we are dedicated to finding a treatment that targets each patient’s individual needs. Whether you are having trouble with acne, varicose veins, or dry skin, you will benefit from our services. To learn more or to schedule an appointment, contact us today.

Tips for Combating Dry Skin in the Winter

Each season of the year affects the skin differently. Of the four seasons, winter can be the harshest on the skin. This is particularly true where chronic dryness is concerned. Winter is almost synonymous with causing significant dryness, peeling, cracking, and other similar conditions of the skin if not tended to with special care. These conditions can occur in people of all skin types, including those with normal or oily skin. Below are skin care tips you should add to your skin care routine to help keep your skin moisturized healthy all winter long.

Practice Skin Care From the Inside Out

What you eat inadvertently affects the appearance of your skin. During the winter season, it is more important than ever to eat well and drink plenty of water. While it is true that the holidays allow for a little indulgence, it also remains true that sugar and refined carbohydrates intake should be as minimal as possible. Start by steering clear of sodas and sugary drinks. Instead, focus on drinking the suggested eight glasses of water a day. Fresh fruits and vegetables (especially water-logged ones) and lean meats should also be incorporated into your diet.

Be sure to get ample rest as well. Stress and fatigue can cause the skin to look aged. And, as tempting as it is to lounge around during winter, ensure you get ample amounts of daily exercise.

Tips for Amping Up Your Skin Care Routine

Topical skin care routine is important for complementing the self-care practices listed above. Your skin should be cleansed gently (but thoroughly) at least once a day, and special attention should be paid on moisturizing. Although winter is known for freezing temperatures, the winter sun can still cause damage. Be sure to use moisturizers with SPF protection when spending time outdoors during the day. Also, ensure you wear appropriate clothing at all times. Suitable winter clothing should help protect you from the sun’s harmful rays while also keeping you warm.