skin care Tag

Understand and Care for Your Psoriasis With These 3 Tips

Our skin is an important part of how we are able to present ourselves to the world. In fact, it is one of the first things others notice about us. Consequently, we do all we can to take good care of our skin through skin care routines in an effort to maintain healthy skin. We put our literal and proverbial best face forward.

About Psoriasis

There are many conditions that affect the appearance of the skin. Some are serious, others simply embarrassing, and others a large nuisance. Psoriasis can fall into any of these.

Psoriasis is a condition that occurs when the deeper lying cells of the skin react to the skin’s surface and die in relatively large volumes. When this happens, red (and often itchy) plaques with white scales cover the skin. Psoriasis generally affects the scalp, knees, and elbows, but can also affect the soles of the feet palms of the hands, and the torso. The condition is usually treated by a dermatologist.

As irritating and unsightly as psoriasis can be, it is treatable. A large part of treating the condition includes soothing the itching and irritation while moisturizing the skin. This can be done by doing the following:

1. Taking warm baths

Taking warm baths, coupled with the use of mild soap, can go a long way in soothing irritation. You can opt to add oatmeal, dead sea salt or Epsom salt to the mix as well. The most important part, however, is the water temperature. Soap should be mild. Temperatures that are too hot or too cold can irritate the already sensitive skin further, as will soaps that are too harsh.

2. Use moisturizer

As a rule, anything you use on your skin to help with psoriasis, should be mild and not very prone to causing any ill or adverse effects. This applies to the moisturizer you choose. Nevertheless, one must moisturize. Moisturizing effectively will help with the scaling and flaking of the skin. Using a dehumidifier is also a great way to keep the skin moist.

3. UV Rays from the sun

Believe it or not, mild exposure to the sun’s rays can help with psoriasis by slowing the build-up of cells. You will need to wear sunscreen whenever going out into the sun. The sunscreen should be used on your healthy skin. Additionally, exposure to the sun, even with sunscreen, should be minimal as a general skin care rule. Furthermore, too much exposure can exacerbate the condition, as well as result in other conditions like skin cancer.

Of course, before trying any of the skin care tips for healthy skin above, it is important that you contact a dermatologist. For more information on psoriasis and how the condition can be effectively treated, contact our treatment centers today to speak with one of our qualified dermatologists. Universal Dermatology will be happy to assist you!

Protect Against Skin Damage with These 4 Skin Care Summer Habits

Summer is synonymous with sweat, sun, and sea. It is also the time of year when we kick our health and skin care habits into overdrive. Thanks to extra exposure added to the sun’s UV rays, summer is when we are more likely to experience skin damage. To protect ourselves and our skin, the following skin care habits should become second nature.

1. Eat Well and Exercise

As amazing and effective as topical treatments and procedures can be, regular exercise and eating well is still the first step to great skin care and good general health. As a rule, drink lots of water and stay away from sugary snacks, processed carbohydrates, and too much salt. Eat lots of fresh fruits and vegetables (especially hydrating, waterlogged ones), lean meats, fiber-rich grains and more. Also do at least 30 to 45 minutes of moderate exercise daily.

2. Wear Sunscreen

Sunscreen is perhaps the most important tool in your healthy summer skin bag of tricks. Sunscreen must be worn at all times when going outdoors. While no sunscreen can block all of the sun’s UV rays, be sure to use a sunscreen of SPF (sun protection factor) of at least 30, as these have been shown to effectively block up to 97% of the sun’s rays.

3. Use protective gear

Since the sun’s UV rays are very damaging to the skin, reducing direct contact between UV rays and the skin is the name of the game. In addition to applying sunscreen, using umbrellas, wearing sun visors or caps, and sitting in the shade when outdoors can all go a long way to protecting against UV rays related skin damage.

4. Develop a skin care routine

During the summer, it is important to keep up with your skincare routine. Be sure to gently wash and cleanse the skin regularly, as well as moisturize. Use the products that work well with your skin type.

For further information about how to protect yourself from summer’s strong UV rays, contact Universal Dermatology today.

Melanoma: What It Is and How to Prevent It

May is Melanoma Awareness Month, making it the perfect opportunity to become more informed about this condition. Many of our daily habits, including the kinds of food we eat, the amount of water we drink, how much (and how well) we rest, the products we use and outdoor activity all affect the health of our skin. Due to this, it is important to be cognizant of which habits are good ones to have and practice.

Why You Should Use Sunscreen and How to Find the Best Kind for You

Spring means sunshine and sunshine means outdoor activities. While soaking up the sun has its benefits, such as providing the body with a natural source of vitamin D, it is important to use caution when spending extended periods of time outside. The ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun can be very damaging to the skin. In fact, UV rays from the sun are directly responsible for skin conditions such as premature aging. sunburn and skin damage that can lead to skin cancer.

Tips for Finding the Best Sunscreen for Your Skin

The technology used to make sunscreens is constantly evolving. Today, the best kinds offer fuller protection against both UVA and UVB rays. Some scatter the UV rays and others absorb them before they get to the skin. In sifting through the broad spectrum of sunscreens, ensure the sunscreen has:

• An SPF of 15 or higher to protect against UVB rays
• Titanium dioxide, ecamsule, avobenzone, oxybenzone, zinc oxide, or sulisobenzone among the ingredients as they indicate protection against UVA rays
• Sweat and water resistance

In addition to ensuring the sunscreen has the right properties, it is important to use sunscreens as directed in order to gain maximum benefits. When using sunscreen, keep these application tips in mind:

When to See a Vein Specialist

A vein specialist, like those found at Universal Dermatology & Vein Care, will be able to diagnose, treat, and monitor both cosmetic and medical vein issues you may have. An estimated 30-40% of the U.S. adult population experiences some type of vein disorder. Our clinical services encompass all elements of vascular care, from medical varicose vein management to cosmetic spider vein removal. We perform all the diagnostic evaluations and minimally invasive procedures in our comfortable outpatient office setting.

Varicose Veins. Veins in the legs function to return blood back to the heart. Leg veins contain valves that close and stop blood from flowing backward towards the feet. Working long hours standing on your feet, a family history, or recent pregnancy can make you prone to having vein valve weakness and failure. Damaged vein valves don’t shut properly and thus allow blood to leak backward, leading to a build-up of pressure within the vein. This excessive pressure over a period of time can cause large, dilated, twisted varicose veins to form. Varicose veins are often accompanied by symptoms like cramping, swelling, pain, or even tired feeling legs. With a simple, painless ultrasound in the office, we can check the status of your leg veins and determine if you are a candidate for medical therapy.. The old days of varicose vein stripping are long gone. We use the latest technology in varicose vein treatment, called Endo-Venous Laser Treatment (EVLT), which uses a small laser fiber to seal the varicose vein shut from the inside. This quick, 1-hour procedure is extremely effective, has virtually no downtime, and is covered by most insurances.

Spider Veins. Spider veins are caused when small, superficial blood vessels dilate and rise to the surface of the skin. These unsightly red and blue veins rarely cause symptoms and can be easily treated cosmetically with sclerotherapy or external laser treatments at Universal Dermatology & Vein Care.

Whether your motivation for vein treatment is symptomatic or cosmetic, we are here to help!

To schedule an appointment to discuss your leg vein concerns, contact Universal Dermatology & Vein Care today at 614-706-3057.

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.

Benefits of Laser Hair Removal In The Winter

If you are tired of shaving or waxing to get rid of pesky, unwanted hair on your legs, arms and elsewhere, now is the perfect time to undergo laser hair removal. Let’s face it, most people think more about hair removal in summer when it’s beach and bikini season, yet scheduling laser hair removal in winter has a number of benefits.

Tips For Taking Care of Your Skin During The Holidays

During the holidays, your skin may be the last thing on your mind. However, it is more important than ever to protect your skin from harsh winter conditions that can cause it to become dry or irritated. Here are skin care tips to make taking care of your skin during the hectic holiday season simple and effective:

Clean, Moisturize, and Exfoliate. The holidays are the perfect opportunity to capture your memories in photographs. It is important to cleanse and moisturize your skin every day to make sure it is glowing and photo-ready! Before putting on your makeup, apply an oil-free moisturizer to your skin. This will create a smooth base and keep your skin healthy and happy. Before going to bed, remember to cleanse your skin and remove all of your cosmetics. To remove dead skin cells, you should exfoliate a few times a month as well.

Below are just a few of the many products Universal Dermatology & Vein Care offer to help cleanse, moisturize, and exfoliate.

• ZO Foamacleanse is great for all skin types, helps reduce oil production but also mild enough for dry skin.
• Epionce Milky cleanser works well for dry skin and can help nourish the skin in these harsh winter months.
• Environ super moisturizer+ is a moisturizing cream formulated to help comfort the skin while moisture levels are being restored.
• Universal Gentle Glycolic Cleanser is formulated to help gently exfoliate the skin without harming or irritating the skin.

Drink Plenty of Water. Alcohol is often served at holiday parties. Drinking this type of beverage can cause your skin to become dehydrated. If you will be enjoying a few cocktails, it is essential to drink plenty of water so that your face keeps its rejuvenated appearance.

Avoid Sugar. Although the holidays are filled with cookies and other sweet treats, sugar can make your skin appear puffy. Maintaining a balanced diet will keep your skin looking its best.

Clean Your Makeup Brushes. Make sure you keep your brushes and applicators clean before applying your makeup. Bacteria and oil accumulate on these tools, which can cause acne breakouts and irritation. To avoid these problems, rinse your brushes and applicators in warm, soapy water then allow ample time for them to dry.

Following these tips will help ensure that you have beautiful skin throughout the holiday season. If you want to receive professional help to look your best for the holidays, contact us!

The Benefits of Dermaplane

Your skin is your first point of contact with the world. Taking care of your skin health should be of high priority. Making sure you have the highest level of skin care treatment possible is the best place to start.

Quick Facts About Dermaplane – An Effective Non-Invasive Skin Care Treatment

Dermaplane is an effective skin care treatment alternative to microdermabrasion for rejuvenating and replenishing the skin. It involves gently removing the top layer of the skin and peach fuzz, revealing smoother, more youthful, glowing skin. Below are some of the facts and benefits associated with the procedure:

1. Dermaplane procedures must be carried out by licensed aestheticians who are certified and trained to safely perform the treatment.

2. Dermaplaning is performed every three to four weeks to safely and effectively remove skin buildup, including dead cells and vellus hair (the tiny hairs on the skin’s surface commonly referred to as ‘peach fuzz’).

3. With the exception of some slight redness post procedure, dermaplane is quick, painless, and has virtually no downtime.

4. The dermaplane procedure is simple and can be easily likened to shaving the skin.

5. Dermaplane is great for exfoliating skin, offers better results than traditional microdermabrasion and is gentle enough to still be performed with a chemical peel.

6. Removing vellus hair will not cause hair to grow back thicker, fuller, or darker.

7. Skincare products will be able to penetrate the surface of the skin easier, making the products more effective.

8. Makeup will be easily applicable to the skin and will result in an effortless look.

Our Dermaplane Procedure:

If you have tried traditional microdermabrasion and have not had the results you want, then dermaplane may just be the skin care procedure for you. Here at Universal Dermatology and Vein Care, our team uses the latest available technologies to help safely and effectively bring you the results you want – smooth, healthy, youthful, glowing skin.

The Importance of A Skin Care Routine In The Fall

As the days become shorter, the air becomes drier and the temperatures drop, your skin may need extra attention. Autumn is the season of transition and the best skin care routine will set right any summer damage that has happened and prepare your skin for the upcoming winter months. Read on to learn about some important skin care tips to help keep your summer glow into the fall.

Your skin has been exposed to a lot of sun, chlorine and salt water, so fall is the time to exfoliate and moisturize. While it is crucial to exfoliate all through the year, it is especially important to do so during the drier, cooler seasons when the dead skin cells tend to accumulate on the skin surface. The buildup of dead skin cells can make the skin appear dull and rough. Exfoliation is essential to keep the skin smooth and radiant.  Try one of our gentle glycolic cleansers for adding daily exfoliation to your fall skin care regimen.

Make time to schedule a full body scrub or an exfoliating facial that gets rid of summer’s marks too from your skin and makes it look fresh and beautiful. While choosing exfoliating products, keep in mind, oil-based scrubs are the best as they both exfoliate and hydrate.

During the season, it is best to avoid using harsh soaps. Fragrant soapy scrubs may feel great after a day at the beach, but they can leave your skin irritated and dry. With the arrival of the dry months, it is time to opt for a soap-free moisturizing cleanser. Also, your skin requires a thicker moisturizer around this time. If you have been applying lotions on your skin in the summer, it is now time to switch to thicker creams.

The sun may not feel extremely harsh during the fall, but that is no excuse to forget your sunscreen to prevent wrinkles. Whether it is a clear autumn day or a gray one, you will still need protection from the ultraviolet rays of the sun.  Our aestheticians can help you choose a sunscreen according to your skin type for daily wear during fall

As you adjust to a new season, do not forget to make these important changes in your skincare routine. The holiday season will soon be here before you know it and you want to be ready for it with your best fall skin health routine.