Skin Care Tips for healthy

Skin Care Tips for healthy

1. Protect yourself from the sun

One of the most important ways to take care of your skin is to protect it from the sun. A lifetime of sun exposure can cause wrinkles, age spots and other skin problems — as well as increase the risk of skin cancer.

Use sunscreen. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15. Apply sunscreen generously, and reapply every two hours — or more often if you're swimming or perspiring.Seek shade. Avoid the sun between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., when the sun's rays are strongest.
Wear protective clothing. Cover your skin with tightly woven long-sleeved shirts, long pants and wide-brimmed hats. Also consider laundry additives, which give clothing an additional layer of ultraviolet protection for a certain number of washings, or special sun-protective clothing — which is specifically designed to block ultraviolet rays.


2. Don't smoke

Smoking makes your skin look older and contributes to wrinkles. Smoking narrows the tiny blood vessels in the outermost layers of skin, which decreases blood flow. This depletes the skin of oxygen and nutrients that are important to skin health.

Smoking also damages collagen  give your skin strength and elasticity. In addition, the repetitive facial expressions you make when smoking — such as pursing your lips when inhaling and squinting your eyes to keep out smoke — can contribute to wrinkles.

If you smoke, the best way to protect your skin is to quit. Ask your doctor for tips or treatments to help you stop smoking.



3. Treat your skin gently

Daily cleansing and shaving can take a toll on your skin. To keep it gentle:

Limit bath time. Hot water and long showers or baths remove oils from your skin. Limit your bath or shower time, and use warm — rather than hot — water.
Avoid strong soaps. Strong soaps and detergents can strip oil from your skin. Instead, choose mild cleansers.
Shave carefully. To protect and lubricate your skin, apply shaving cream, lotion or gel before shaving. For the closest shave, use a clean, sharp razor. Shave in the direction the hair grows, not against it.
Pat dry. After washing or bathing, gently pat or blot your skin dry with a towel so that some moisture remains on your skin.

4. Eat a healthy diet:

A healthy diet can help you look and feel your best. Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins. The association between diet and acne isn't clear — but some research suggests that a diet rich in vitamin C and low in unhealthy fats and processed or refined carbohydrates might promote younger looking skin.

5. Manage stress:

Uncontrolled stress can make your skin more sensitive and trigger acne breakouts and other skin problems. To encourage healthy skin — and a healthy state of mind — take steps to manage your stress. Set reasonable limits, scale back your to-do list and make time to do the things you enjoy. The results might be more dramatic than you expect.

Skincare Tips Regimen

Cleansing:
Simple is key here. You need to find a good cleanser that your skin responds well to, and stick with it: See the best cleansers for your skin type.

You can find a good cleanser at the drugstore. There's no need to spend $40 on a fancy wash. Avoid bar soaps as they tend to dry out the skin. For you organic types, you can cleanse skin with milk or yogurt .

Here are some tried-and-true cleansing tips:
Be careful not to cleanse too often or you risk over-cleansing skin, see signs you are over cleansing your skin. Most experts agree you really only need to wash your face at night to remove makeup and sunscreen, which can clog pores.
In the morning, a splash of lukewarm water is all you need. I find it's great for removing excess oils from your nightly moisturizing. If you have super oily skin, you can cleanse your skin again in the morning. Never wash your face with hot or cold water .
Make sure to remove eye makeup with a proper makeup remover. The area around the eye is delicate so don't pull or rub too hard. You can also use olive oil as a natural eye makeup remover. Find out more in Use Olive Oil as an Eye Makeup Remover.
If you have dry skin, consider cold cream like Pond's, which the French use, or make your own organic cold cream using this simple cold cream recipe. Simply apply cream, then wipe off, no water needed .
To cleanse skin, most women prefer the water method: Use warm water to loosen dirt and clogged pores. Use a dime-sized bit of cleanser, then rinse with cool or lukewarm water.
Skin purists believe tap water is bad for your skin because it contains harsh minerals and additives like fluoride and chlorine. If this stuff freaks you out, find out how to wash your face without tap water in How to Cleanse Your Face the Expert Way.
I personally swear by my Clarisonic skincare brush, as does pretty much everyone I know who has one. The machine does all the work for you. Buy your own from Amazon.com for under $100.
For detailed tips on cleansing, see How to Wash Your Face Properly and, for those of you who really want to do it right, check out How to Cleanse Your Face the Expert Way

Exfoliate:
Exfoliation is the step most people skip in their weekly skincare routine. But trust me, if you start properly exfoliating your skin, you will notice an almost immediate difference. According to Berg, one of the reasons men's skin looks more youthful than women's is because men tend to exfoliate daily when they shave.

How much you exfoliate is up for debate. Some women have skin that gets scaly quickly.
Others look dewy and fresh with minimal fuss. Dermatologist Dr. Patricia Wexler recommends women exfoliate every day. "This once-a-week thing is nonsense. But, I think you have to know your skin. You should never look red or irritated—you should look better after you scrub."
Types of Exfoliation
This picture here shows a woman using a salt scrub. Can you tell what's wrong with this photo?

Simple: those salt crystals are too big and will likely tear at her skin. When choosing an exfoliation method, remember you want to treat your skin gently. Micro-tears are not good for the skin. Salt scrubs are indeed popular, but choose tiny crystals like the ones in a basic table salt.

Here are your typical exfoliation options:
A facial scrub
You can buy a great scrub or make your own. Because many facial scrubs contain microbeads, which are bad for the environment (they are plastic and clog up our waterways), I prefer sugar scrubs. See my list of the best facial scrubs or try out a recipe using brown sugar and coconut oil in Make a Face & Body Scrub With Sugar and Oil.

A washcloth
Put a dab of cleanser and a sprinkle of white refined sugar on a damp washcloth and massage skin in a circular motion. After a quick rinse, any sign of dead skin is erased. If you have dry skin, try extra virgin coconut oil. Find out what washcloths work best in my article, The Best Washcloths for Exfoliating Your Face.

Microdermabrasion
You can buy microdermabrasion kits. I have and found quite a few I like. See my list of the best facial scrubs and microdermabrasion kits.

Chemical peels
Chemical peels. In the hour it takes to get a chemical peel, you can take a year from your face. Can't afford the price tag for a monthly peel? Try some over-the-counter peels that work over the course of a month.I prefer Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta Peel

\Retinoids
Retinoids also work by removing the top layer of dead skin cells while also generating collagen in the skin. "Collagen is the skin's structural fiber," dermatologist Dennis Gross said in O Magazine. "As we get older, it breaks down, creating lines and large pores." Skincare experts disagree on all sorts of things, but most of them consider retinoids to be a miracle skin saver. I'm addicted to Retin-A, which I pick up in Mexico on my yearly jaunts.

In my article, How to Exfoliate, I share all my tips and tricks to proper exfoliation. Including why you should throw out the loofah.

 Moisturize:
While I know of at least one famous beauty editor who swore skin doesn't need moisturizer, basically everyone else I've read disagrees and is an adamant believer in it. A basic rule of beauty is that if you have dry skin, you should invest in a basic moisturizer.

So how much should you moisturize? Your skin will tell you. When your skin is tight, it's crying out for moisture. Be careful not to over-moisturize -- this can clog pores.

See my list of the best moisturizers on the market.

For you natural girls, nothing beats a good oil for your skin. You can use extra virgin coconut oil, olive oil, sweet almond oil or jojoba oil. Learn more in Organic Extra Virgin Coconut Oil as Overall Body Moisturizer.

Apply Sunscreen:
The  cause of wrinkles is sun damage, so it's important to use a sunscreen of at least 30 SPF from your early years on even in winter and on cloudy days. A great trick is to purchase two moisturizers: One for night and one for day that includes UV protection. Don't use moisturizers with sunscreen at night, the ingredients are not meant to be used 27/7 and can aggravate skin. When choosing a sunscreen, make sure it contains Mexoryl  or Helioplex, found in Neutrogena products.

Should You Use a Toner?
Many beauty experts say you don't need them because toners are meant to remove all remaining traces of oil, makeup and dirt and a good cleanser should do this. That said, toners of today are not your mother's toners of a couple decades ago. They are much more gentle, full of antioxidants and skin brighteners and can make even the driest skin look vibrant. I firmly believe it's up to you. If you like the way your skin feels with a toner.

Are Eye Creams Necessary?
Well maybe. Some beauty experts strongly recommend eye creams. Why? The skin around the eye contains no fatty tissue and is therefore very thin and susceptible to wrinkles. Special eye creams are formulated to "thicken" this area. Yet other experts claim your daily lotion works around the eyes just as well.

My Best Anti-Aging Tips
Here are a few of my favorite anti-aging tips:
Read any magazine article about skincare past age 50 and it's downright depressing. The list of things that happen to us as we age may make you want to shun the beauty sections of magazines forever. In this article, 20 Skincare Tips Every Woman Over 50 Should Know, I talk about Botox, a miracle cream I swear by and all sorts of other goodies.

From Prevention magazine: Move your sun visor over to the left to keep harmful UV rays off your face while you drive. It turns out most women's faces are more sun damaged on their left sides. Why? They drive a lot. I would also suggest keeping sunblock in your purse. You should apply every few hours . And yes, if you are usually the passenger, move that sun visor over to the right.

Skin Care Tips for your Face

Tips for your skin:

With winter on its way, your skin is going to go through some changes. Heaters and harsh winter winds are going to shrink the pores on your skin causing it to be dry, flaky and more sensitive. To prevent this you need to balance the PH level of the skin. Two ways of doing this are:

Internally: drinking 6-8 glasses of water a day and keeping away from pop, coffee, and alcohol.

Externally: topically hydrating the skin with masks, creams and serums.

If you are a normal to combination skin type, a good way to change your skin care routine for winter would be to change your regular day cream for a thicker, more nourishing one and using a hydrating face mask once a week.

If you are already a dry skin type, try adding a night cream or mix in a hydrating serum into your day cream or mask for an extra boost. Also, remember that when your skin is dry it builds up on the epidermis (top layer of the skin) causing it to flake, peel, and appear dull. Exfoliating once a week will remove dead skin cells, leaving the skin softer and brighter while allowing your creams, masks and serums to penetrate the skin easily.

Skin Care Tips for your body

Not only is the skin on your face going to feel the affects of winter but so will the skin on your body. Salt rubs are a great way to relax, while exfoliating dead skin cells and hydrating the skin.

To make your own at home mix together:
1 cup fine sea salt
1Tbsp aloe vera gel
1Tbsp light oil canola, apricot kenel, almon.

Once mixed, soak in a warm tub. Rub small amounts all over your body in a circular motion, and then just shower and towel off. Always apply a moisturizer after the shower or bath to hydrate the skin, this will help alleviate the itchy dry patches that can occur on the skin.

The Briars Spa has body wraps specifically designed to exfoliate the skin and re-hydrate. These wraps can offer a lot of comfort during the long cold months. Book one today!

Did you know that we are a Day Spa just 45 minutes from Toronto? Enjoy a short country drive up to The Briars Spa for your next day of pampering!

Skin Care Tips Anti-Aging

Learn to look after your skin

By SkinCareGuide.ca

Although there are different kinds of treatments, procedures and surgery that can assist in improving the look of your skin, it is important that you look after your skin to start with. If you are unhappy with how gravity, the sun and everything else seems to be changing your skin's appearance, here are some tips and facts from DermatologyCare .CA that will assist you:

ANTI-AGING SKIN CARE TIPS AND FACTS:
EXERCISE:   Although exercise is vital to your health and great skin, it won't change the structure of your skin as it gets older. The look of your skin is determined mostly by genetics and sun exposure.

COSMETICS:As you age you need to use both lighter colored cosmetics and lighter hair colors. These are more flattering to your skin tone and can keep you looking and feeling younger.

MENOPAUSE:As you go through menopause, it's very common to find that the skincare products you once relied on are no longer as effective. For example, the hormonal changes associated with menopause often leave skin feeling drier than before. Try a richer moisturizer to see if it makes a difference.

SUNBEDS:Contrary to popular belief, sunbeds are not a safer way to tan. Sunbeds emit UVA rays and causing tanning and aging of the skin .They may also be important in the development of melanoma. If you're using a sunbed, you're accelerating the aging of your skin and increasing your risk of skin cancer.

LIPSTICK:Did you know that your lipstick helps your lips look younger and protects them? It's true. Using lipstick, helps protect your lips from harmful rays. It's one of the reasons men are more apt to get lip cancer - so men slap on the lip protection!

YOUR EYES:Don't forget your eyes! Long-term sun exposure can lead to cataracts and age-related macular degeneration. So as you head out the door, be sure to grab your sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, or both!

WATER:Drinking water is not enough! While many people believe that drinking a lot of water will help keep their skin smooth and supple, in truth, water consumption has only a small effect. A better approach to keeping your skin at its best is to drink plenty of water and use a moisturizer daily.

SLEEP:Get your beauty rest! It's actually true - a good night's sleep is one of the best ways to keep your skin looking its best. For a healthy and glowing complexion, get plenty of sleep, maintain a well-balanced diet and exercise regularly.

CELLULITTE:Hate your cellulite? You are not alone. Drinking water and exercising unfortunately doesn't make it go away although having a less body fat does help. There are creams and procedures available that can help reduce the appearance of cellulite. Talk to your dermatologist if it really bugs you.

Skin Care Tips, Skin Care Guides and Skin Care Treatments

                                    Skin Care Tips, Skin Care Guides and Skin Care Treatments
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Skin Care Tips: All About Skin Cleansers

Skin Care Tips: All About Skin Cleansers


Whether you are a guy or girl, young or old, a cleanser can wonders for your skin or at minimum resolve a host of issues down the line.

You should be a discerning consumer when it comes to selecting your cleanser- for instance you might not want to use animal based products or the things that might contain chemicals or any product that you look at comes from a unknown source and not from a fly-by-night snakes oil salesman

Cleansers come in all different sizes, prices, and combinations and make be made up of various different ingredients. Skin cleansers could also make your skin feel a lot more smoother and looking healthier and more youthful towards others.

Some popular components of skin cleansers include aloe vera and chamomile which is suitable for sensitive skin types. you might need a stronger cleansing formula if you face a lot of grease and grime on your skin on a regular basis perhaps due to the nature of your work.

Certain brands may only remove light soils or mild environmental particles such as dust and sweat.

Germs that you're looking to disinfectant then you should check the label to see that it does indeed remove germ as well as clean any other to exfoliate the skin.

Another important thing that you want to consider is cleansers designed for use on various parts of the bodies, for instance there are hand cleansers that are marketed and sold separately from facial cleansers as well as other bodily cleansing products.

Skin Care Tips Winter From The Skin Rejuvenation Clinic

Skin Care Tips Winter From The Skin Rejuvenation Clinic:

                                             The cold winter winds are blowing across much of the country these days and for many of us that means dreaded dry skin or even worse. Here at The Skin Rejuvenation Clinic, we want you to know that even when the weather outside is unsightly, your skin doesn’t have to be! Today we’re going to give you some tips to boost your winter skin care regimen so that you have healthy skin throughout the colder months.

                                            Consider seeing a specialist or coming into The Skin Rejuvenation Clinic! You’ll be hard pressed to find a salesperson at your local drugstore who can give you good advice specifically for your skin. That’s why it’s a great investment to go to an esthetician or dermatologist even once.
Moisturize more and often! While your moisturizer may work just fine for you in spring and summer months, your skin care routine needs to change as the weather conditions do. Oil-based, ointment moisturizers are better than water-based ones for winter months as they create a protective layer on your skin that helps retain more moisture. However, remember to choose with care when it comes to oils because not all of them are appropriate for your face.

Don’t forget the sunscreen! It isn’t just for the summer months. That winter sun, especially when it’s combined with snow glare, can and will definitely damage your skin over time.
Don’t forget your hands, either. Did you know that the skin on your hands has fewer oil glands and is thinner than most other parts of your body? This means that it’s harder to keep your hands moist, which can lead to itchiness and cracking in the winter months. Don’t forget to moisturize your hands, too, and wear gloves when you’re outside.

Skin Care Tips from Dallas Expert

Skin Care Tips from Dallas Expert:

Winter and fall are not only a time for a change in seasons but also a time to add a few changes to your skin care regimen. Summer sun and fun can take a toll on your skin and leave you with drier skin as you head into the fall. Dr. Thornwell Parker, founder of Skincepts Medical Skincare in Dallas, provides the following helpful tips for caring for your skin in the fall.

Exfoliate
As you head into fall you may find that your skin feels a little dull and dry. Sunscreen does a great job of protecting your skin but it can clog pores and dry out your skin. This is a good time to exfoliate your skin and shed those dull, dry outer layers of skin for a fresh new look. Exfoliate once or twice a week at home with a mild scrub or consider exfoliation by a trained professional

Moisturize
Find a gentle moisturizer with anti-oxidant fighting properties such as Vitamins A, C, and E. For dry skin, moisturize all over every night. For oily skin, moisturize only the dry areas and avoid the oily areas and try moisturizing only every other night.

Get a Step Ahead
Consider getting professional advice and more advanced treatments, such as a chemical peel or microdermabrasion. Winter months are also a popular time to consider treatments such as deeper laser peels. Various types of treatments are available for different skin types.

Skin Care Tips to keep it Healthy for Years to Come

Skin Care Tips to keep it Healthy for Years to Come:

More and more people nowadays are concerned about the appearance of their skin. And in their desire to have immediate results in their fight against time and the environment, most go for medications and expensive skin treatments. However, the only thing they might actually need is to change some small aspects of their everyday lives in order to be far better protected against the negative effects that time and the environment can have on the skin.

Here are some simple tips/ideas that can help anyone be better prepared to face the harmful elements that affect our skin:

Protection from the sun
Sun is undeniably one of nature’s most harmful elements when it comes to our skin. It can cause/accelerate the appearance of freckles, wrinkles and extremely dry skin. Furthermore, when exposed for excessive amounts of time and over several years, skin can develop more serious problems, like skin cancer for example.

So, in order to protect yourself from the harmful effects of the sun, you should try to avoid it at times when it is stronger, always wear protective clothing to cover the most sensitive areas of your skin and use sunscreen even if there is no visible sun during the day. This is because the sun’s UV rays can pierce through clouds and reach our skin directly, even on cloudy days.

Avoid smoking
It is a proven fact that smoking causes the tiny veins on the epidermis to narrow, which decreases the blood flow and makes the skin look older and more prone to show wrinkles. This also directly affects collagen and elastin, which play a direct role in our skin’s elasticity.

Take care of your skin
Even if daily cleansing might seem ideal, it might prove to be a bit too much for some skins. So the idea might be to keep cleansings and other intense cleaning methods restricted to certain periods.

On top of this, any kind of bath or shower should be restricted to short amounts of time and done with warm (rather than hot) water, since a long shower can easily remove oil from the skin, which helps with its elasticity. It is also advisable to restrict the use of traditional soaps, since they can dry up the skin very fast.

Eat healthy
Eat natural foods like fruits and vegetables and avoid non-healthy foods. Special precaution should be taken against the consumption of junk food and almost anything that is deep dried or found at fast food restaurants.

Stress management

Although not scientifically proven, stress is assumed to be one of the main trig

Skin Care tips Acne

Skin Care tips Acne

Acne Skin Care Tip  1: You Should Always Clean Your Skin Very Gently
As a matter of first importance, individual cleanliness is exceptionally vital for battling skin inflammation. So as what most specialists normally propose, you ought to delicately clean your skin with a gentle chemical in any event twice per day. This straightforward acne healthy skin step is considered vital for battling acne since washing your face or the other influenced regions will wipe away the skin break out bringing about microbes found on the skin. Likewise take note of that in spite of the fact that you are now and then advised to clean your face, scouring is not a decent skin inflammation healthy skin move since it will simply trigger the advancement of acne, intensifying the condition. Notwithstanding this skin break out healthy skin step, it is important that astringents are not generally proposed unless the skin is sleek. What's more, they should just be connected on the slick spots.

Acne Skin Care  2: You Should Refrain from Frequently Holding Your Skin
Another accommodating skin inflammation healthy skin tip is to keep away from habitually treatment of the skin. Don’t squeeze, pick or crush your pimple since it will just compound the condition. A hefty portion of the general population have considered this skin inflammation healthy skin venture as a standout amongst the most vital skin inflammation skin health management pointers realizing that it might just purpose contamination and scars arrangement. As this acne healthy skin tip holds, you ought to abstain from rubbing and touching your skin sores if conceivable.

Acne Skin Care 3: Always Choose Cosmetics Carefully
This last skin break out healthy skin tip holds that individuals who are being dealt with for skin inflammation must change a percentage of the beauty care products they utilize. Note that keeping in mind the end goal to maintain a strategic distance from the onset or the improvement of skin inflammation, the beauty care products you anticipate utilizing like the establishment, redden, lotions, and eye shadow ought to be sans oil. Besides that, this skin inflammation healthy skin tip likewise holds that you should maintain a strategic distance from slick hair items for they might bring about shut comedones. In this manner, those items that are marked as noncomedogenic ought to be connected.

Many of us are extremely aware of our skin condition. What's more, all things considered, we continually need to have a new, gorgeous skin however much as could reasonably be expected. Lamentably, large portions of us additionally neglect to reach the conclusion that straightforward steps are the most ideal approaches to fulfill this objective. We frequently are visually sufficiently impaired that we don’t see what’s truly right or wrong for our skin. We regularly fall in so much disappointment and urgency that make us go purchase any costly magnificence items that at last simply end up being an exercise in futility and cash, and even intensify our acne. Ideally, the aforementioned acne skin care tips will be a decent begins to offer you some assistance with enhancing your skin condition.

Skin Care Tips 5 Winter

Skin Care Tips 6 Winter

1.Repair Summer Damage During Winter Months
Even when precautions are taken, sun exposure in the summer months still causes damage to skin. Winter is the ideal season to start ramping up on brightening treatments and products that help treat dull skin, dark spots and skin discoloration.  We recommend chemical peels such as the Cosmelan Depigmentation Peel to fade hyperpigmentation issues related to summer sun damage while adding the SkinMedica Lytera Skin Brightening Complex to your daily winter skin care home regimen, available in both of our aesthetic clinic locations and online.

2.Go Coconuts For Your Cleanser
With colder temps and lower humidity, a non-acid cleanser is best for those that have dry skin year round. Look for natural cleansers that contain coconut milk, which has antibacterial properties but doesn’t irritate or strip moisture from sensitive or dry skin.  Our very own Refinement skin care line by SBL Labs includes a coconut milk cleanser that you can order online or purchase in one of our facial aesthetics practices in Santa Monica or Portland.

3.Don’t Let the Clouds Fool You
Winter’s shorter, darker days don’t mean you should skimp on your sunscreen. UVA rays penetrate through clouds and windows and damage deeper layers of the skin even in the middle of winter.   A tinted, chemical free, broad spectrum sunscreen is your best bet.  We recommend EltaMD, which includes zinc oxide, the most powerful ingredient for protecting against harmful UV rays.  This line of sun protection is available in our online store and in both of our convenient locations.

4.Preserve Delicate Skin–Without Preservatives
The skin around the eye is uniquely delicate and absorbent. Because of this, Lovely recommends an eye cream with natural ingredients free of parabens, carcinogens or harmful preservatives.  We recommend our own Refinement Bright Eye, an all-natural eye cream with active ingredients such as Vitamin C and Silk Amino Protein.

6.Stimulate Cell Turnover–Gently
Active products, such as retinoids, can be too harsh on the skin in the cooler winter months, but we still need to use a product that stimulates cell turnover. A gentle skin resurfacing product with probiotics and plant enzymes to gently exfoliate is a must have for winter.  Try the SkinMedica AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser and schedule a treatment with one of our SkinMedica chemical peels or a gentle VI Peel.

So,For product purchase information or to schedule an appointment for help with your winter skin care woes and get more winter skin care tips based on your specific skin type and needs, contact us at our Santa Monica facial aesthetics practice or our Portland aesthetic dermatology clinic and speak with one of our aesthetic specialists today!

Skin Care Tips a Top Beauty Expert Always Follows

When it comes to skincare practices, there’s an overwhelming amount of information out there, and so many mismatching opinions on what to do or not to do. I learned a lot of my own skincare habits from my mother and grandmother, who put a lot of value on the importance of having a beauty ritual, and as I’ve worked on initially developing and now expanding my skincare line, I’ve discovered some skincare secrets that have now become part of my daily habits. One of the things I hear most often from my clients is that they’re not sure what rules to follow in order to ensure healthy, youthful skin in the long term. Here are five skincare habits that I always follow, and why:

1.I avoid cleansers with detergents because they strip the skin of moisture and open up the skin’s protective barrier. When you wash with a soapy, sudsy cleanser at night, you’re essentially removing all of the moisture from the moisturizer and serum that you applied that morning, which means that it’s really difficult to see long term results from an anti aging regimen. A lot of people think that all cleansers are the same, so they opt for the cheapest option, but cleansers can be amazing treatment products for the skin that work to make your skin’s outer layer glow and smooth. I use cleansers that wash the skin with clays, oils and essential oils, which leave the skin perfectly clean and maintain that essential moisture barrier.

2. I exfoliate every day to keep my skin clear and glowing. A lot of people think that exfoliating is something to do just once in a while, but our skin is in a constant state of regeneration and is producing dead cells every day; when dead cells build up, the skin looks dull and is prone to blackheads and breakouts. I exfoliate every day to stay on top of that layer of dead skin, sloughing it off to reduce congestion. Another benefit is that clearing away dead skin allows your serums and anti-aging treatments to penetrate the skin more easily, so your whole regimen will become more effective. However, it’s important to use a gentle exfoliating cleanser that’s specifically developed for daily use - our Regenerating Cleanser is absolutely perfect.

3. I apply my serum to my neck, too. The neck is an area women are often stingy with their anti-aging products. There are many products formulated specifically for the skin of the neck area, but a serum can make a big difference. It’s a very exposed area, and it can be one of the first areas to show signs of aging with wrinkles and loss of firmness. I apply one pump of serum to my face, and another to my neck, to keep the skin there looking youthful for as long as possible.

4. I massage the entire eye area when I apply my eye cream, which is a Japanese skincare tradition that works wonders to reduce puffiness and dark circles. A lot of us have learned that tapping the eye area is the best way to apply product there, and that’s definitely true when your hands are dry, but if you have an oil or enough cream on your fingers to create glide, massaging is a great technique. With eyes closed, use your ring fingers on each hand and draw circles around your eye area 10 times to promote microcirculation and reduce lymphatic stasis. Then, starting in between the eyes, pinch your eye brows, all the way out to their ends. When you practice this frequently, you’ll ensure that the fluid that gathers under the eyes is drained, and under-eye puffiness reduced as well. The massage should be slow, with a bit of pressure.

5. I double cleanse in the evenings to really, deeply purify my skin from environmental pollutants and buildup. Double cleansing sounds indulgent, but really most of us do it anyways by removing makeup before cleansing! It's is a technique that I’ve been incorporating into my regimen for about a year, and it makes a dramatic difference in the softness and clarity of my skin.  I first use the Nourishing Oil Cleanser to remove makeup, by massaging it into dry skin - before rinsing, or anything - and then remove everything with a cotton round. This step dissolves makeup and debris. Then I use our Purifying Cleanser, which activates the skin’s natural lymphatic drainage, and penetrates deep into pores to deep-clean, combatting the degrading, aging effects of pollution and greenhouse gases.

Skin Care Tips For Baby

Skin Care Tips Baby:
Your baby's skin is so soft and smooth and just delightful to touch. However, this also means that the skin is very sensitive and prone to bouts of the occasional irritating skin problem and when baby is irritated, chances are, so are you. A baby's skin is very different from yours and needs to be treated in a different way; often doing less rather than more is the preferred option. Huggies® can help you along by identifying and offering treatments for specific skin conditions as well as general baby skin health care tips and advice.

Skin Care Tips Under the sum:
It's amazing how soft and pure your baby's skin can be, so it's no wonder it needs gentle care. Their skin can easily be damaged by dryness and the harsh effects of the sun.Protecting your baby's delicate skin from the sun's harsh rays is the most important baby skincare step you can take. As babies and children have sensitive skin, they have a higher risk of sunburn and skin damage from the sun's UV radiation. Also, exposure to UV radiation during the first 15 years of life greatly increases the risk of developing skin cancer later in life.

Taking them out of the hot midday sun and making sure they are well covered by protective clothing and a hat will go a long way to protecting their skin. In addition, building a baby skincare routine of both sunscreen and a gentle moisturiser into your day to keep your baby's skin well protected at all times. Use a broad spectrum sunscreen for parts of the body which cannot be covered up such as little hands and faces.

That said, the sun is the best source of vitamin D, which children need to develop and maintain strong and healthy bones. However, because of our high levels of UV radiation, most children receive enough vitamin D just by going about their daily activities outside of peak UV times (10am-2pm or 11-3pm daylight saving time). Thus, there's no need to deliberately expose your child to the sun to get vitamin D. Even when well protected with clothing, hats and sunscreen, most children and babies get enough sunlight for healthy growth.

However, some children may be at risk of low vitamin D levels, such as those whose mothers have low vitamin D, children with very dark skin, or those cover their faces for cultural or religious reasons. If you're worried about your child's vitamin D levels, see your GP.

Skin Care Tips of The baby Non Asians VS Asians

Skin Care Tips of The baby Non Asians VS Asians :
1.Non Asians-
Skin type is primarily determined by genetics and is scientifically classified according to the hair colour and the skin's ability to tan. Skin types vary greatly depending on one's geographical location, the climate, gender, and even health.Skin conditions in Asians and non-Asians are vastly different. Aside from genetics, this is largely attributed to the climate in which we live in. Most Asians live in the tropics where it is predominantly wet or dry with high humidity all year round whereas non-Asians generally enjoy seasonal changes.

2.VS Asians-
Brown skin with yellow undertone, dark complexion. Larger pores therefore more prone to skin problems (e.g. acne, oily skin), skin texture, pigmentation, and tone also appear uneven.Higher level of melanin in the skin therefore more protection against the sun and lower rate of skin cancer.Higher level of melanin and haemoglobin mean skin colour may darken or become more yellowish with age.Higher level of melanin, slower aging process.Oil glands are more active due to warmer climate.Tendency for hyperpigmentation (dark spots) and laxity (loss of firmness).

Skin Care tips Infantile Eczema for the baby

Skin Care tips Infantile Eczema  for the baby:
 Due to their sensitivity, your baby's skin is more susceptible to various infections and skin issues. It can be a common issue and should not cause undue worry. However, if you realised that they are having frequent bouts of outbreaks or the skin problem do not seem to be receding, it is best to seek the advice of your doctor the soonest. Still, more often than not, it can be easily remedied or prevented. The key is to understand the type of skin issue that is happening to their skin.

Infantile Eczema-
Eczema is an inflammation of the skin that causes itchiness and dry skin. In babies, it may start to show up only after two months old. Eczema comes and goes, often with differing severity, but it is treatable and some children eventually outgrow it, though some others may carry it to adulthood or develop other atopic illnesses like allergy and asthma.

Symptoms-
The first sign of eczema is often patches of red, leathery skin which may appear anywhere on the body. Although it is not localised and may spread to other parts of the body - especially around the folds of the skin, behind the knees, and the nappy area - it is more commonly found on baby's cheeks, neck folds and joints of the limbs. This can sometimes be mistaken for heat rash. Eczema results in extremely dry and sensitive skin so you may find baby being unusually irritable and often attempting to scratch at the affected areas.

Causes-
Allergens. Eczema causes baby's skin to be highly sensitive to minute dust particles like air pollutants, dust mites, pollens, moulds, and pet dander.Parents who suffer from eczema often pass it on to their child. Aside from hereditary cause, eczema, an atopy illness, may also be triggered by a variety of irritants that result in a reaction in the body's immune system. Some of these irritants include:

Weather- Climate and temperature changes and high humidity can trigger infant eczema because baby's skin perspires less effectively, thus it is also less efficient in regulating the body temperature.

Diet.-Some food are known to cause skin reactions in babies, particularly citrus fruits (e.g. orange), dairy products (e.g. milk, egg, peanut, chocolate), and seafood (e.g. shrimp). Food colouring and preservatives can also cause eczema.

Clothing- Babies with eczema should avoid clothing made from wool and lycra as they tend to irritate the skin.
Toiletries and detergents- Everything from body lotion, bath foam, perfume, to the type of laundry detergent and hand soap you use on and around baby can cause eczema to flare up because of the harsh chemical components in these products.

Who is more prone to eczema?
If you have a family history of atopy illnesses such as eczema, allergies and asthma, there is a 50% chance of your child inheriting it. Babies with dry and sensitive skin are also prone to eczema.

Treatment
Eczema is treatable with over-the-counter liniment such as a mild topical steroid like hydrocortisone cream. Steroidal creams helps soothe the itch and reduce the redness by reducing inflammation but this should be used sparingly as it can lead to thinning of the skin if overused. Hydrocortisone should generally be avoided for use on children under 10 years old so use only as directed or prescribed by doctors and use sparingly. If you are unsure, always check with the doctor. For more serious cases of eczema, antibiotics may be recommended if there is an infection. Your doctor may also prescribe oral antihistamine to relieve the itch.

Prevention
1. Taking a bath once a day helps keep baby cool but be careful not to use water that is too hot as high temperature can cause eczema to flare up. Keep bath time under 10 minutes using only lukewarm water.

2. Choose bath products wisely and use only those that are mild, unscented, and hypoallergenic. You may also use an oatmeal-based bath lotion to help relieve the itch. Bubble baths are not suitable for babies in general.

3. When drying off baby, simply pat down with a towel as rubbing causes friction which may aggravate the skin problem. Pay extra attention to the folds of the skin.

4. Daily moisturising helps keep baby's skin well-moisturised as it dehydrates easily. Pick a good moisturiser containing petroleum jelly for best effect and apply immediately after a bath while the skin is still wet for best absorption.

5. Dress baby comfortably. Loose-fitting - but not oversized - cotton garments are best in minimising skin irritation caused by chaffing. New clothes should always be washed prior to first wear.

6. Scratching can aggravate existing rash. To prevent baby from scratching, trim and file baby's nails regularly.

7. When putting baby to bed, dress baby sensibly to keep him cool and comfortable. Fleece blankets and quilts make nice gifts but are often unsuitable for the high humidity of equatorial countries.

8. Clean baby's bedroom and play areas regularly, especially if you have a pet, and sun baby's bedding often. Dust mites and pet dander are common triggers of eczema. Remove objects like a fluffy stuffed toy or a carpet that trap dust readily.

9. Avoid bringing baby from a cold place to a hot one (and vice versa) as abrupt changes in temperature can cause eczema to flare up.

When to see the doctor
Severe eczema can result in scaly skin and rashes with pus-filled bumps. This is an indication of bacterial infection and requires proper medical treatment. You should also avoid having baby come in physical contact with persons with open wounds and cold sores.

Skin Care tips Diaper Rash for the baby

Diaper Rash-
Diaper rash is a mild form of skin irritation associated with diaper-wearing. It results in reddish patches limited to the diaper area and is common amongst diaper-wearing babies and infants, and even those on cloth nappies. Symptoms of a diaper rash are usually mild and should clear up by practicing good hygiene.

SymptomsSkin Care tips Diaper Rash for the babySkin Care tips Diaper Rash for the baby
The first sign of a diaper rash is red patchy skin on and around the genitalia and buttocks. This may erupt into small bumps if not treated promptly.

Causes
Diaper rash ensues for a variety of reasons, the most common being prolonged wearing of a wet and soiled diaper. Diaper rash arise due to moisture and bacteria that harbour within the diaper and on the skin. Wet skin breaks down easily and is prone to chafing, and yeast and bacterial infections. Skin irritation can also occur when a diaper is worn too tightly, causing the elastic bands to cut the skin of the baby.

Who is more prone?
Babies who are on antibiotics may suffer from a bout of diarrhea which will increase the chances of contracting diaper rash. Some babies may also be more sensitive to particular brands of diaper, laundry detergent, and wet wipe that you use.

Prevention
Diaper rash may cause discomfort to the baby but it is a fairly mild condition which does not require a visit to the doctor. It should heal nicely if you pay attention to the following:

1. Always wash your hands with soap before and after changing baby's diaper to prevent transmitting more bacteria to baby's bottom.

2. Change a wet or soiled diaper promptly.

3. Cleaning baby's bottom with cotton wool and warm water is sufficient. If you are using wet wipes, choose one that is free from fragrance and alcohol as these are drying agents. Over cleansing can cause irritation as baby's skin is very gentle.

4. Always pat dry baby's bottom thoroughly before putting on a fresh diaper.

5. 15 minutes of daily airing is beneficial in keeping baby's bottom fresh and dry.

6. Applying a good barrier cream, such as one with zinc oxide or petroleum jelly, will help soothe the rash. Barrier creams are readily available at pharmacies.

7. Diaper should be fitted on snugly - not too tight that it cuts into the skin or too loose that causes leakage. 8. Adults' and baby's clothes should be washed separately using appropriate detergent. Baby laundry detergent is gentler and free from chemicals that may cause irritation to baby's skin.

When to visit the doctor
Diaper rash rarely requires a visit to the doctor unless the bumps become yellowish and filled with pus or if fever follows.

Skin Care tips for the baby Of Heat Rash

Heat Rash-
Heat rash, also known as prickly heat, is a very itchy form of skin rash that is caused by a blockage of the sweat glands due to excessive perspiration. It may recur from time to time, particularly when the weather is hot and humid, but it is not known to have any long term ill effects.

Symptoms
Tiny red bumps appear all over the skin when babies develop heat rash. Lesions of rashes commonly appear around the neck, folds of the arms and legs and the armpits where most perspiration takes place, though it may also be widespread across the body.

Causes
As its name implies, heat rash is typically caused by high humidity. Hot weather puts a strain on your baby's underdeveloped sweat glands as he is unable to regulate his body heat efficiently. An overdressed baby can also suffer from heat rash.

Treatment
It is not necessary to give your child any medication for heat rash. The key treatment is in keeping your baby cool and comfortable by removing excessive clothing and minimising body heat.

Prevention
1. Taking a bath twice a day helps keep baby cool but be careful not to use water that is too hot as high temperature can cause rashes to flare up. Keep bath time under 10 minutes using only lukewarm water.

2. Choose bath products wisely and use only those that are mild, unscented, and hypoallergenic. You may also use an oatmeal-based bath lotion to help relieve the itch. Alternatively, add some household table salt to a tub of water and dissolve it completely before bringing baby to the bath. Salt has anti-bacterial effects but take care not to scrub the skin.

3. When drying off baby, simply pat down with a towel as rubbing causes friction which may aggravate the skin problem. Pay extra attention to the folds of the skin.

4. Daily moisturising helps keep baby's skin well-moisturised. Pick a good moisturiser containing petroleum jelly for best effect and apply immediately after a bath while the skin is still wet for best absorption.

5. Do not use talcum powder - or snake powder - to relieve itch on your baby as he may breathe in the fine particles of the powder.

6. A post-bath or pre-bedtime massage is great for relaxing your baby and improving blood circulation. Simply apply some baby oil and gentle strokes to help baby calm down and sleep better.

7. Dress baby comfortably. Loose-fitting - but not oversized - cotton garments are best in minimising skin irritation caused by chaffing. Do not over swaddle your newborn.

8. New clothes should always be washed prior to first wear. Remember to remove clothes tags that may irritate the skin. Check for embellishments and stitching that may also irritate the skin.

9. Scratching can aggravate an existing rash. To prevent baby from scratching, trim and file baby's nails regularly and put on mittens. If your baby has outgrown the mittens, try putting on a pair of comfortable, snugly-fitted long socks on the hands so baby can't pull them off.

10. Dress baby sensibly for bed to keep him cool and comfortable. Fleece blankets and quilts make nice gifts but are often unsuitable for the high humidity of equatorial countries.

11. Keep your baby in a cool environment with ample air circulation and breeze. If you have to bring baby out in the day, remember to put on a hat and slap some sun screen on baby's face, hands and legs.

When to visit the doctor
Heat rash may be mild but infection can set in when there is excessive scratching. Broken skin from incessant scratching can lead to bacterial infection. This may result in the development of pus-filled blisters, swelling, or crusting of the skin, which calls for a visit to the doctor. Watch out also for signs of increased irritability, crying, lethargy, loss of appetite and fever.

Skin Care tips for the baby of Jaundice

Jaundice-
Jaundice is a common occurrence amongst newborns because of their inability to remove a chemical known as bilirubin, a byproduct of the red blood cells. This results in a yellowish tint on the baby's skin and eyes. Jaundice typically shows up from the second day onwards. In many cases, the condition is mild and eventually goes away by itself by the second week but if severe, immediate treatment is required.

Symptoms
Checking for jaundice is routinely performed by the pediatrician prior to baby's discharge from the hospital and again 3 to 5 days later when bilirubin level is at its peak. Yellow coloration on the face and eyes is the first telltale sign of jaundice. This coloration will spread down to the feet when there is an increase in bilirubin level.

Causes
Before a child is born, bilirubin in the foetal blood is removed by the mother's liver. However, a newborn's liver takes a couple of days to reach maturity and is hence unable to process bilirubin fully. Excess bilirubin in the blood stream causes the skin to turn yellow.

Who is more prone?
Asian babies are more prone to jaundice compared to non-Asians. Within the population, however, jaundice occurs regardless of race or ethnicity. Some babies are more susceptible to the condition because of a variety of reasons, such as:

Family history of jaundice
Prematurity

G6PD deficiency

Poor feeding (especially if breastfed)

Breast feeding

Treatment
Especially in the first few days of birth, breastfed babies should be nursed frequently in order for bilirubin to be passed out of the body in the stools. (Baby's stools should look bright yellow.) This also helps the mother establish her milk production.

High levels of bilirubin can lead to brain damage. Babies with jaundice may need tubes or treated using phototherapy. While administering the light therapy, the baby is dressed only in a diaper and eyeshades.

Prevention
There is no known prevention for jaundice. However, you should never self-treat and place baby in direct sunlight.

When to see the doctor
You should revisit the pediatrician if jaundice does not go away after two weeks or if your baby is extremely fussy or appears listless and has poor appetite.

Skin Care tips for the baby of Cradle Cap

Cradle Cap-
Cradle cap is a form of skin inflammation known as seborrheic dermatitis. It typically appears on a newborn's scalp but may also show up elsewhere on the face, particularly around the eyes, nose, and ears, and also around skin folds. This is a harmless skin condition that should go away on its own without any - or little - treatment within a couple of months.

Symptoms
Cradle cap is characterised by a yellow scaling of the skin and may appear oily, crusty, and patchy. It may be mistaken for dandruff because of the dry, flaky skin, and may result in itchiness of the scalp.

Causes
Although seborrheic dermatitis inflammation is the result of overactive oil glands, maternal hormones have often been blamed for the cause of cradle cap. Excessive oil formed in a newborn's scalp show up as a buildup of waxy, dead cells but this can also develop into a rash.

Treatment
Cradle cap seldom requires any treatment because it is a relatively mild condition. There is no need for off-the-shelf products or medication as it will eventually resolve on its own. However, you can improve the condition by observing the following when washing baby's hair: 18

1. 15 to 30 minutes prior to bath time, apply a moderate amount of baby oil, olive oil, mineral oil, or petroleum jelly to the affected areas. Massage the scalp gently, taking care to avoid the eyes.

2. Leave the application on for at least 15 minutes to ensure that it is absorbed by the scaly skin.

3. During bath, exfoliate the scalp by wetting it and gently brushing away the top layer of dead skin using a soft bristled hair brush or toothbrush. Do not attempt to peel off the crusty bits with your nails.

4. For facial area, use a damp cloth to clean away the application, again taking care to avoid the eyes.

5. Use a regular baby shampoo to wash baby's hair as per normal. You may wish to purchase a mild anti-dandruff shampoo suitable for baby.

6. Rinse thoroughly and pat dry. Do not rub.

7. Ensure that you do not leave traces of oil on baby's head and face as this may clog up the pores and worsen the condition.

When to see the doctor
It is not necessary to see the doctor unless the cradle cap causes an itch or spreads to other sites apart from the scalp. You should seek a doctor's advice if there is no marked improvement or if the condition worsens after self-treatment. This could be an underlying case of deeper infection where the doctor may suggest a cortisone cream or a special seborrhea shampoo as part of the treatment.

Skin Care tips for the baby of Milia

Milia-
Milia are tiny white bumps that commonly appear on a newborn's face, usually on the cheeks and nose, but can also be found on the gums. Apart for aesthetics, these spots are harmless and do not pose any health problems.

Symptoms
Milia appear as tiny white bumps, mostly on the face and occasionally on the gums. These pimple-like bumps usually disappear within weeks of birth.

Causes
Milia is the result of your baby's oil glands becoming blocked by skin flakes (or dead skin) near the skin surface. It is not a symptom of any underlying skin disease.

Treatment
No treatment is required for milia. They usually fade away within weeks of birth when the dead skin wears off and when your baby's oil glands gradually open up. You should not attempt to squeeze the bumps, apply any ointment or scrub your baby's face as these may result in scarring and skin irritation.

Skin Care tips for the baby of Sunburn

Sunburn-
Sunburn is the result of overexposure in the sun and can take place within 30 minutes of exposure. It happens when harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation penetrates the skin, causing a skin inflammation. Sunburn is also responsible for the premature aging and wrinkling of the skin. In severe cases, it can cause skin cancer.

Symptoms
The first sign of sunburn is redness of the skin. This usually shows up within two hours of being in the sun without any protection. Within 24 hours, the skin may start to sting, peel, and itch.

Causes
Sunburn is caused by prolonged unprotected exposure in the sun.

Who is more prone?
Newborns and infants under six months old are extremely sensitive to the sun as they tend to burn easily. Persons of white skin tone, as well as those living close to the equator and in places of high altitudes are also more likely to get sunburns.

Treatment
1. For mild sunburns, sponge down the sunburned areas using a damp cloth for about 15 minutes regularly throughout the day. Do not rub the skin and ensure that baby does not catch a chill in the process.

2. A cool bath can also help soothe baby's skin. Avoid adding salt, bubble bath, and any harsh body wash as these may aggravate the condition. Apply moisturiser immediately after a bath.

3. Ensure that baby is breastfed often or given water to keep hydrated following sunburn.

Prevention
Regular protection against the sun should begin early. Even on a cloudy day, UV radiation is at its strongest between 10am and 5pm. Infants should never be exposed to direct sunlight and if the need arises to bring baby out of the house during midday, you should take the following precautions:

1. Apply sunscreen generously on baby, (minimum more than 6 months old), 20 minutes before stepping out of the house, paying extra attention to the nose, cheeks, and forehead. Choose a sunscreen that is broad-spectrum, of SPF 30 and above, one that blocks out both UVA and UVB rays, and contains zinc oxide as the active ingredient.

2. Sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours as activities such as perspiring and swimming can wear off the protection from the skin.

3. Ensure that baby is sufficiently - but not overly - clothed before going out. Choose cotton clothes that are loose-fitting.

4. Even with sunscreen slapped on, it is advisable to stay in the shade under an umbrella, a wide-brimmed hat that shades the neck, or in the shade of the pram.

5. Try to walk under shady spots. Stay away from the road or sand as the sun can reflect off floor surfaces.

When to see the doctor
If fever, vomiting, or blisters result following a sunburn, see the doctor immediately.

Skin Care Tips For Diabetes

Skin Care Tips For Diabetes:
Diabetes can affect every part of the body, including the skin. As many as 1/3 of people with diabetes will have a skin disorder caused or affected by diabetes at some time in their lives. Most skin conditions can be prevented or easily treated if caught early. Talk to your doctor if you have questions or concerns about skin changes or infection.

There are several things you can do to prevent skin problems:
Keep your diabetes well managed. People with high glucose levels tend to have dry skin and less ability to fend off harmful bacteria. Both conditions increase the risk of infection.
Keep skin clean and dry. Use talcum powder in areas where skin touches skin, such as armpits and groin.

Avoid very hot baths and showers. If your skin is dry, don't use bubble baths. Moisturizing soaps may help. Afterward, use a standard skin lotion, but don't put lotions between toes. The extra moisture there can encourage fungus to grow.

Prevent dry skin. Scratching dry or itchy skin can open it up and allow infection to set in. Moisturize your skin to prevent chapping, especially in cold or windy weather.
Treat cuts right away. Wash minor cuts with soap and water. Only use an antibiotic cream or ointment if your doctor says it's okay. Cover minor cuts with sterile gauze. See a doctor right away if you get a major cut, burn, or infection.

During cold, dry months, keep your home more humid. Bathe less during this weather, if possible.
Use mild shampoos.
Do not use feminine hygiene sprays.
See a dermatologist about skin problems if you are not able to solve them yourself.

Skin Care Tips Living For Diabetes of Skin Complications

Diabetes can affect every part of the body, including the skin. In fact, such problems are sometimes the first sign that a person has diabetes. Luckily, most skin conditions can be prevented or easily treated if caught early.

Some of these problems are skin conditions anyone can have, but people with diabetes get more easily. These include bacterial infections, fungal infections, and itching. Other skin problems happen mostly or only to people with diabetes. These include diabetic dermopathy, necrobiosis lipoidica diabeticorum, diabetic blisters, and eruptive xanthomatosis.

General Skin Conditions
Bacterial Infections  
Several kinds of bacterial infections occur in people with diabetes:
Styes (infections of the glands of the eyelid)
Boils<br />
Folliculitis (infections of the hair follicles)
Carbuncles (deep infections of the skin and the tissue underneath)
Infections around the nails
Inflamed tissues are usually hot, swollen, red, and painful. Several different organisms can cause infections, the most common being Staphylococcus bacteria, also called staph.
Once, bacterial infections were life threatening, especially for people with diabetes. Today, death is rare, thanks to antibiotics and better methods of blood sugar control.

But even today, people with diabetes have more bacterial infections than other people do. Doctors believe people with diabetes can reduce their chances of these infections by practicing good skin care.

If you think you have a bacterial infection, see your doctor.
Fungal Infections
The culprit in fungal infections of people with diabetes is often Candida albicans. This yeast-like fungus can create itchy rashes of moist, red areas surrounded by tiny blisters and scales. These infections often occur in warm, moist folds of the skin. Problem areas are under the breasts, around the nails, between fingers and toes, in the corners of the mouth, under the foreskin (in uncircumcised men), and in the armpits and groin.

Common fungal infections include jock itch, athlete's foot, ringworm (a ring-shaped itchy patch), and vaginal infection that causes itching.
If you think you have a yeast or fungal infection, call your doctor.

Itching
Localized itching is often caused by diabetes. It can be caused by a yeast infection, dry skin, or poor circulation. When poor circulation is the cause of itching, the itchiest areas may be the lower parts of the legs.

You may be able to treat itching yourself. Limit how often you bathe, particularly when the humidity is low. Use mild soap with moisturizer and apply skin cream after bathing

Diabetes-Related Skin Conditions
Acanthosis Nigricans
Acanthosis nigricans is a condition in which tan or brown raised areas appear on the sides of the neck, armpits and groin. Sometimes they also occur on the hands, elbows and knees.

Acanthosis nigricans usually strikes people who are very overweight. The best treatment is to lose weight. Some creams can help the spots look better.

Diabetic Dermopathy
Diabetes can cause changes in the small blood vessels. These changes can cause skin problems called diabetic dermopathy.

Dermopathy often looks like light brown, scaly patches. These patches may be oval or circular. Some people mistake them for age spots. This disorder most often occurs on the front of both legs. But the legs may not be affected to the same degree. The patches do not hurt, open up, or itch.

Dermopathy is harmless and doesn't need to be treated.
Necrobiosis Lipoidica Diabeticorum
Another disease that may be caused by changes in the blood vessels is necrobiosis lipoidica diabeticorum (NLD). NLD causes spots similar to diabetic dermopathy, but they are fewer, larger, and deeper.

NLD often starts as a dull, red, raised area. After a while, it looks like a shiny scar with a violet border. The blood vessels under the skin may become easier to see. Sometimes NLD is itchy and painful. Sometimes the spots crack open.

NLD is a rare condition. Adult women are the most likely to get it. As long as the sores do not break open, you do not need to have it treated. But if you get open sores, see your doctor for treatment.


Allergic Reactions
Allergic skin reactions can occur in response to medicines, such as insulin or diabetes pills. You should see your doctor if you think you are having a reaction to a medicine. Be on the lookout for rashes, depressions, or bumps at the sites where you inject insulin.

Diabetic Blisters
Rarely, people with diabetes erupt in blisters. Diabetic blisters can occur on the backs of fingers, hands, toes, feet and sometimes on legs or forearms. These sores look like burn blisters and often occur in people who have diabetic neuropathy. They are sometimes large, but they are painless and have no redness around them. They heal by themselves, usually without scars, in about three weeks. The only treatment is to bring blood sugar levels under control.

Eruptive Xanthomatosis
Eruptive xanthomatosis is another condition caused by diabetes that's out of control. It consists of firm, yellow, pea-like enlargements in the skin. Each bump has a red halo and may itch. This condition occurs most often on the backs of hands, feet, arms, legs and buttocks.

The disorder usually occurs in young men with type 1 diabetes. The person often has high levels of cholesterol and fat in the blood. Like diabetic blisters, these bumps disappear when diabetes control is restored.

Digital Sclerosis
Sometimes, people with diabetes develop tight, thick, waxy skin on the backs of their hands. Sometimes skin on the toes and forehead also becomes thick. The finger joints become stiff and can no longer move the way they should. Rarely, knees, ankles, or elbows also get stiff.
This condition happens to about one third of people who have type 1 diabetes. The only treatment is to bring blood sugar levels under control.

Disseminated Granuloma Annulare
In disseminated granuloma annulare, the person has sharply defined ring- or arc-shaped raised areas on the skin. These rashes occur most often on parts of the body far from the trunk (for example, the fingers or ears). But sometimes the raised areas occur on the trunk. They can be red, red-brown, or

Skin Care Tips Living For Diabetes of Eye Complications

Eye Complications

You may have heard that diabetes causes eye problems and may lead to blindness. People with diabetes do have a higher risk of blindness than people without diabetes. But most people who have diabetes have nothing more than minor eye disorders.

With regular checkups, you can keep minor problems minor (see our Eye Care page). And if you do develop a major problem, there are treatments that often work well if you begin them right away.

Eye Insight
To understand what happens in eye disorders, it helps to understand how the eye works. The eye is a ball covered with a tough outer membrane. The covering in front is clear and curved. This curved area is the cornea, which focuses light while protecting the eye.

After light passes through the cornea, it travels through a space called the anterior chamber (which is filled with a protective fluid called the aqueous humor), through the pupil (which is a hole in the iris, the colored part of the eye), and then through a lens that performs more focusing. Finally, light passes through another fluid-filled chamber in the center of the eye (the vitreous) and strikes the back of the eye, the retina.

The retina records the images focused on it and converts those images into electrical signals, which the brain receives and decodes.

One part of the retina is specialized for seeing fine detail. This tiny area of extra-sharp vision is called the macula. Blood vessels in and behind the retina nourish the macula.

Glaucoma
People with diabetes are 40% more likely to suffer from glaucoma than people without diabetes. The longer someone has had diabetes, the more common glaucoma is. Risk also increases with age.

Glaucoma occurs when pressure builds up in the eye. In most cases, the pressure causes drainage of the aqueous humor to slow down so that it builds up in the anterior chamber. The pressure pinches the blood vessels that carry blood to the retina and optic nerve. Vision is gradually lost because the retina and nerve are damaged.

There are several treatments for glaucoma. Some use drugs to reduce pressure in the eye, while others involve surgery.

Cataracts
Many people without diabetes get cataracts, but people with diabetes are 60% more likely to develop this eye condition. People with diabetes also tend to get cataracts at a younger age and have them progress faster. With cataracts, the eye's clear lens clouds, blocking light.

To help deal with mild cataracts, you may need to wear sunglasses more often and use glare-control lenses in your glasses. For cataracts that interfere greatly with vision, doctors usually remove the lens of the eye. Sometimes the patient gets a new transplanted lens. In people with diabetes, retinopathy can get worse after removal of the lens, and glaucoma may start to develop.

Retinopathy
Diabetic retinopathy is a general term for all disorders of the retina caused by diabetes. There are two major types of retinopathy: nonproliferative and proliferative.

Nonproliferative retinopathy
In nonproliferative retinopathy, the most common form of retinopathy, capillaries in the back of the eye balloon and form pouches. Nonproliferative retinopathy can move through three stages (mild, moderate, and severe), as more and more blood vessels become blocked.

Macular edema
Although retinopathy does not usually cause vision loss at this stage, the capillary walls may lose their ability to control the passage of substances between the blood and the retina. Fluid can leak into the part of the eye where focusing occurs, the macula. When the macula swells with fluid, a condition called macula edema, vision blurs and can be lost entirely. Although nonproliferative retinopathy usually does not require treatment, macular edema must be treated, but fortunately treatment is usually effective at stopping and sometimes reversing vision loss.

Proliferative retinopathy
In some people, retinopathy progresses after several years to a more serious form called proliferative retinopathy. In this form, the blood vessels are so damaged they close off. In response, new blood vessels start growing in the retina. These new vessels are weak and can leak blood, blocking vision, which is a condition called vitreous hemorrhage. The new blood vessels can also cause scar tissue to grow. After the scar tissue shrinks, it can distort the retina or pull it out of place, a condition called retinal detachment.

How is it Treated?
Huge strides have been made in the treatment of diabetic retinopathy. Treatments such as scatter photocoagulation, focal photocoagulation, and vitrectomy prevent blindness in most people. The sooner retinopathy is diagnosed, the more likely these treatments will be successful. The best results occur when sight is still normal.

In photocoagulation, the eye care professional makes tiny burns on the retina with a special laser. These burns seal the blood vessels and stop them from growing and leaking.

In scatter photocoagulation (also called panretinal photocoagulation), the eye care professional makes hundreds of burns in a polka-dot pattern on two or more occasions. Scatter photocoagulation reduces the risk of blindness from vitreous hemorrhage or detachment of the retina, but it only works before bleeding or detachment has progressed very far. This treatment is also used for some kinds of glaucoma.

Side effects of scatter photocoagulation are usually minor. They include several days of blurred vision after each treatment and possible loss of side (peripheral) vision.

In focal photocoagulation, the eye care professional aims the laser precisely at leaking blood vessels in the macula. This procedure does not cure blurry vision caused by macular edema. But it does keep it from getting worse.

When the retina has already detached or a lot of blood has leaked into the eye, photocoagulation is no longer useful. The next option is vitrectomy, which is surgery to remove scar tissue and cloudy fluid from inside the eye. The earlier the operation occurs, the more likely it is to be successful. When the goal of the operation is to remove blood from the eye, it usually works. Reattaching a retina to the eye is much harder and works in only about half the cases.

There are two types of treatment for macular edema: focal laser therapy that slows the leakage of fluid, and medications that can be injected into the eye that slow the growth of new blood vessels and reduce the leakage of fluid into the macula.

Am I at Risk for Retinopathy?
Several factors influence whether you get retinopathy:

blood sugar control
blood pressure levels
how long you have had diabetes
genes
The longer you've had diabetes, the more likely you are to have retinopathy. Almost everyone with type 1 diabetes will eventually have nonproliferative retinopathy. And most people with type 2 diabetes will also get it. But the retinopathy that destroys vision, proliferative retinopathy, is far less common.

People who keep their blood sugar levels closer to normal are less likely to have retinopathy or to have milder forms.

Your retina can be badly damaged before you notice any change in vision. Most people with nonproliferative retinopathy have no symptoms. Even with proliferative retinopathy, the more dangerous form, people sometimes have no symptoms until it is too late to treat them. For this reason, you should have your eyes examined regularly by an eye care professional.