Scientists around the world have been trying to identify the risk factors driving honeybee Colony Collapse Disorder (CCD). There is near-universal agreement that the problem remains severe; many factors can trigger CCD, and of these, several appear to depend on a weakened bee immune system; and, exposure to pesticides, and in particular the persistent, systemic nicotinyl insecticides are likely to be involved in many CCD episodes.

In an important breakthrough, scientists in Europe have discovered a major new, widespread exposure pathway through which bees are ingesting nicotinyl insecticides in virtually all intensively farmed regions – honeybee sources of drinking water. In October, 2009 at a scientific meeting in Paris, Hedwig Riebe summarized recent research on this new exposure pathway (Riebe, 2009).

In the morning and throughout the growing season, essentially all plants emit water in the form of guttation drops. Guttation drops come from inside plant cells, and can carry with them, into the outside world, natural or man-made chemicals that are present in plant cells, such as residues of systemic pesticides that have moved, as they are designed to do, throughout plant tissues. The latest results from European research found 20 parts per billion of nicotinyl insecticides in guttation droplets, almost certainly enough to deliver a dangerous dose to nearby bees.

Inside hives during warm spring and summer nights, bees are hard at work fanning the hive with their wings to help keep the queen comfortable and the brood safe. Each morning at first flight, the bees are dehydrated and thirsty, and seek out a nearby source of moisture. The drops on leaves in nearby fields, typically a mixture of moisture from guttation and dew, are a favorite first stop and common source of hydration. If the field was planted to a seed treated with a nicotinyl insecticide, or if the field/crop has been sprayed with a nicotinyl, the bees will be exposed to some level of systemic nicotinyl insecticide.

In some cases this exposure will prove deadly, as documented in 2009 European research. In other sub-acute exposure cases, the bees ingest enough nicotinyl to weaken their immune system, or disrupt their sense of direction and ability to navigate, or both. These sub-acute impacts are widely recognized factors contributing to or occurring during CCD.

Source: “Exposition Paths of Neonicotinoids,” Dr. Hedwig Riebe, DBID, Paris, France, October 12, 2009. Posted at – http://www.organic-center.org/science.pest.php?action=view&report_id=161

Courtesy of The Scoop; http://www.organic-center.org/

Age-fighting creams, gels, and serums are so wrapped up in promise and attractive packaging; it can be hard to separate fact from fiction. To help you save money and minimize disappointment, dermatologists dispel some common myths.

Myth: You can flatten your tummy by applying a cream or gel to your abdomen.

Fact: Save your money. No topical product exists that can flatten the tummy. In fact, the U.S. Federal Trade Commission is taking action against the manufacturers of topicals that promise to flatten the tummy.

Myth: Scientific advances make it possible for an over-the-counter product to deliver the results possible from a cosmetic procedure or prescription-strength product.

Fact: Marketing claims such as “a facelift from a jar” and “eliminate cellulite in hours” are just hype. While there are many effective over-the-counter products available to treat signs of aging, the results they can deliver are modest. For many people, a prescription-strength product or cosmetic procedure may be necessary to achieve desired results. Dermatologists urge consumers to be realistic about the results they can expect from over-the-counter anti-aging creams, gels, and other products available without a prescription.

Myth: Products that are more expensive deliver better results.

Fact: An alluring claim and hefty price tag do not guarantee the product will work. When it comes to buying age-fighting products, it really is “buyer beware.” A dermatologist can tell you which products have strong science behind them and which products can help diminish signs of aging that concern you.

Myth: A cream can get rid of cellulite.

Fact: Some specially formulated creams can temporarily diminish the appearance of cellulite, but they cannot eliminate cellulite. No cream can dissolve and remove cellulite from the body.

Myth: Natural or organic ingredients are safer and more effective.

Fact: While the words “natural” and “organic” certainly makes a product seem safer, most ingredients cannot be added to skin care products in their natural state. Ingredients such as plant extracts undergo extensive processing in which they are modified and chemically synthesized before being added to the product. This makes the terms “natural” and “organic” misleading.

Myth: “Clinically proven” means the product has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Fact: While drugs are subject to the FDA’s intensive review and approval process, cosmetics are not. The FDA classifies many over-the-counter age-fighting products as cosmetics. When the term “clinically proven” appears on such a product, it can mean that the product was given to people to try for a few weeks. These people then reported whether or not they saw improvement. The FDA does not review such reports.

More Information
10 Tips: Getting the Best Results from Age-Fighting Topicals

10 Tips: Selecting Age-Fighting Topicals
Dermatologists explain how to develop a plan and select products

References:
American Academy of Dermatology. “Dermatologists Can Help Consumers Sort Through the Cosmeceutical Clutter.” News release issued August 2, 2007. Last accessed May 13, 2009.

Draelos, ZD. (editor) 2005. “Cosmeceuticals.” 1^st ed. China:Elsevier Saunders.

U.S. Federal Trade Commission, “FTC Launches ‘Bit Fat Lie’ Initiative Targeting Bogus Weight-loss Claims.” News release issued November 9, 2004. Last accessed May 15, 2009.

U.S. Federal Trade Commission, “Ads for Various Diet Supplements and Topical Gels Don’t Cut the Fat, Says the FTC.” News release issued June 16, 2004. Last accessed May 15, 2009.

U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). “Is it a Drug, a Cosmetic, or Both?” Frequently Requested Information, issued July 8, 2002. Last accessed May 14, 2009.

Wanner M, Avram M. “An evidence-based assessment of treatments for cellulite.” J Drug Dermatol. 2008; 7:341-5.

Courtesy of the American Academy of Dermatology

When a person has eczema (atopic dermatitis), the risk of getting an infection rises. Even a person with mild atopic dermatitis can develop a severe infection. Here are some things you can do at home to reduce the risk:

1. Identify and eliminate potential triggers. Triggers are things that make the skin flare, causing atopic dermatitis to appear. Some common triggers include wool, soaps, pet fur, perfumes, cosmetics, and household cleaners. This does not mean that everyone who has atopic dermatitis will have a flare-up when one of these touches the skin, but many people who have atopic dermatitis do get a flare-up. By noticing when flare-ups occur, you will learn what irritates the skin. Avoiding contact with these will help reduce flare-ups.

2. Keep skin moisturized. When the skin becomes dry and itchy, the desire to scratch becomes overwhelming. Using a non-irritating moisturizer can keep the skin from becoming dry and itchy. Moisturizer should be applied frequently throughout the day and always after bathing while the skin is still moist.

3. Avoid excessive bathing. Dermatologists recommend a daily bath for most patients with atopic dermatitis. The bath should be short, the water lukewarm, and the soap mild. Be sure the soap does not irritate the skin, and use the soap only when needed. If you are not sure if you should bathe daily, ask your dermatologist.

4. Keep indoor humidity and temperature the same year round. Using a humidifier in the winter and air conditioning in the summer can help. Dermatologists generally recommend keeping the humidity level between 45% and 55%. You can use a hygrometer, a device that measures humidity, to monitor the amount of moisture in the air. Hygrometers are available in places where thermometers are sold, such as a local hardware store.

The temperature should be comfortable and not cause the person with atopic dermatitis to sweat. Sweat can trigger a flare-up.

5. Stay away from anyone who has cold sores or chickenpox. The virus that causes cold sores (herpes simplex virus) and the virus that causes chickenpox (varicella zoster virus) can cause a severe skin infection in people who have atopic dermatitis. To prevent this, be sure to stay away from anyone who has cold sores or chickenpox.

6. Reduce stress as much as possible. Stress can cause atopic dermatitis to flare. It is important for people who have atopic dermatitis to know what causes their stress and develop strategies for managing these stressors.

7. Apply cold, wet wraps. If itching becomes intense, ask your dermatologist about wet wraps. This therapy helps relieve intense itching for many patients.

8. Minimize sweating. Your own sweat can irritate your skin and cause a flare-up. To minimize sweating, dermatologists often recommend that their patients who have atopic dermatitis wear clothes made of cotton or moisture-wicking sport fabrics, and dress in layers. This will help prevent overheating and sweating. When clothing is made from a synthetic fabric such as polyester, the fabric tends to trap the sweat.

Taking breaks when exercising also can be helpful.

9. Keep fingernails short. Short nails decrease the likelihood that scratching will puncture the skin. Keeping nails short and wearing cotton gloves at night may help prevent puncturing the skin while asleep. Punctured skin is much more likely to become infected.

Courtesy of the American Academy of Dermatology

Contact Information: Dale Kemery, kemery.dale@epa.gov, 202-564-7839, 202-564-4355, Enesta Jones, jones.enesta@epa.gov, 202-564-7873, 202-564-4355

WASHINGTON - As part of Administrator Lisa P. Jackson’s commitment to strengthen and reform chemical management, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today announced a series of actions on four chemicals raising serious health or environmental concerns, including phthalates. For the first time, EPA intends to establish a “Chemicals of Concern” list and is beginning a process that may lead to regulations requiring significant risk reduction measures to protect human health and the environment. The agency’s actions represent its determination to use its authority under the existing Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) to the fullest extent possible, recognizing EPA’s strong belief that the 1976 law is both outdated and in need of reform.

In addition to phthalates, the chemicals EPA is addressing today are short-chain chlorinated paraffins, polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) and perfluorinated chemicals, including PFOA. These chemicals are used in the manufacture of a wide array of products and have raised a range of health and environmental concerns.

EPA also recently announced that three U.S. companies agreed to phase out DecaBDE, a widely used fire retardant chemical that may potentially cause cancer and may impact brain function.

“The American people are understandably concerned about the chemicals making their way into our products, our environment and our bodies,” said Administrator Jackson. “We will continue to use our authority under existing law to protect Americans from exposure to harmful chemicals and to highlight chemicals we believe warrant concern. At the same time, I will continue to fight for comprehensive reform of the nation’s outdated chemical management laws that ensures a full assessment of the safety of chemicals on the market today and effective actions to reduce risks where chemicals do not meet the safety standard. Chemical safety is an issue of utmost importance, especially for children, and this will remain a top priority for me and our agency going forward.”

On September 29, 2009, Administrator Jackson outlined a set of agency principles to help inform legislative reform and announced that EPA would act on a number of widely studied chemicals that may pose threats to human health. When TSCA was passed in 1976, there were 60,000 chemicals on the inventory of existing chemicals. Since that time, EPA has only successfully restricted or banned five existing chemicals and has only required testing on another two hundred existing chemicals. An additional 20,000 chemicals have entered the marketplace for a total of more than 80,000 chemicals on the TSCA inventory.

The actions announced today include:

Adding phthalates and PBDE chemicals to the concern list.
Beginning a process that could lead to risk reductions actions under section 6 of TSCA for several phthalates, short-chain chlorinated paraffins, and perfluorinated chemicals.
Reinforcing the DecaBDE phaseout – which will take place over three years – with requirements to ensure that any new uses of PBDEs are reviewed by EPA prior to returning to the market.

This is the first time EPA has used TSCA’s authority to list chemicals that “may present an unreasonable risk of injury to health and the environment.” The decision to list the chemicals further signals this administration’s commitment to aggressively use the tools at its disposal under TSCA. Inclusion on the list publicly signals EPA’s strong concern about the risks that those chemicals pose and the agency’s intention to manage those risks. Once listed, chemical companies can provide information to the agency if they want to demonstrate that their chemical does not pose an unreasonable risk.

More information on EPA’s legislative reform principles and a fact sheet on the complete set of actions on the four chemicals: http://www.epa.gov/oppt/existingchemicals

Several studies have shown that people living with psoriasis have a higher-than-average risk for depression. To find out why, researchers have been talking with people who have psoriasis. Researchers also have been looking at what happens inside the body to learn if this could be fueling depression. This is what the studies show.

Psoriasis affects quality of life
Researchers have asked via telephone surveys, one-on-one interviews, and questionnaires what it is like living with psoriasis. In each of these studies, the overall conclusion is the same. Having psoriasis significantly affects a person’s quality of life. Here are some thoughts that people shared with researchers:

· Given that psoriasis is a lifelong skin disease that one must deal with daily, staying on an even keel can be a challenge.

· Psoriasis can undermine one’s sense of self and relationships. Some people say they feel ashamed. Others confess that they work hard to hide their psoriasis. One woman admitted that she tries to hide flare-ups from her husband.

· In one study, nearly half (46%) of the people living with psoriasis agreed it would be “the same” or “better” to have diabetes. Among the people who had psoriasis and diabetes, more than three-fourths (87%) said it is “the same” or “better” to have diabetes.

· Another study revealed that some people living with psoriasis said that they would choose a shorter life expectancy to avoid uncontrollable psoriasis.

· Some people said that they often feel like a leper. In one study, more than one-fourth (26%) of those living with psoriasis said that in last month they had encountered someone who avoided touching them.

· Having psoriasis often makes a person feel helpless.

Depression develops when these feelings of helplessness, hopelessness, and worthlessness last for several days — or even months. Depression interferes with normal everyday life. It can make life seem meaningless.

What triggers psoriasis may trigger depression
Feelings may not be the only culprit. In recent years, researchers have discovered that people who have psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis produce too much of a substance called TNF-alpha. Excess TNF-alpha in the body can lead to skin cells growing too quickly. When this happens, psoriasis develops. Excess TNF-alpha also can damage joint tissue and lead to psoriatic arthritis.

Studies are finding that excess TNF-alpha also is associated with depression. In clinical trials, researchers found that patients with psoriasis who saw results when taking medication that blocks TNF-alpha not only had clearer skin. Blocking TNF-alpha also seemed to lift their depression.

The reason that depression lifts is not entirely clear. It could be that blocking the TNF-alpha alleviates the depression. Another possible explanation is that people feel optimistic because they have clearer skin. More studies are needed to find out why the depression lifts.

Depression lifts with help
One thing researchers are sure of is this: Depression is a treatable medical condition. With help, the emptiness, hopelessness, and despair will lift.

How to recognize depression
Most people, even those with severe depression, can get better with treatment. The first step to overcoming depression is to recognize it. The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) lists the following as symptoms of depression:

· Feeling sad, anxious, or “empty” for more than a couple of days

· Feelings of hopelessness and/or pessimism

· Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, and/or helplessness

· Irritability, restlessness

· Loss of interest in activities or hobbies once pleasurable, including sex

· Fatigue and decreased energy

· Difficulty concentrating, remembering details and making decisions

· Insomnia, early-morning wakefulness, or excessive sleeping

· Overeating, or appetite loss

· Thoughts of suicide, suicide attempts

· Persistent aches or pains, headaches, cramps or digestive problems that do not ease even with treatment

First step often the hardest
While life can seem hopeless, it is possible to change the way you feel. It can be very difficult to take any action when depression hits. The tips on the following page are designed to help you get started:

References:

American Academy of Dermatology, “Research Shows Patients With Psoriasis At Increased Risk For Developing Other Serious Medical Conditions.” News release issued May 24, 2008. Available at www.aad.org/media/background/news/Releases/Research_Shows_Patients_With_Psoriasis_At_Increase/. Last accessed November 19, 2009.

American Academy of Dermatology Association and Society for Investigative Dermatology. “The Burden of Skin Diseases.” 2005. Available at www.lewin.com/content/publications/april2005skindisease.pdf. Last accessed November 19, 2009.

Choi J, Koo JY. “Quality of life issues in psoriasis.” Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology 2003; 49: S57-61.

Krueger G, Koo J, Lebwohl M et al. “The impact of psoriasis on quality of life: results of a 1998 National Psoriasis Foundation patient-membership survey.” Archives of Dermatology 2001; 137: 280-4.

National Institute of Mental Health, “What are the signs and symptoms of depression?” Page last updated September 23, 2009.

Available at www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/depression/complete-index.shtml#pub3. Last accessed November 19, 2009.

Stern RS, Nijsten T, Feldman SR et al. “Psoriasis is common, carries a substantial burden even when not extensive, and is associated with widespread treatment dissatisfaction.” Journal of Investigative Dermatology Symposium Proceedings 2004; 9: 136-9.

Van Voorhees AS, Fried R. “Depression and quality of life in psoriasis.” Postgraduate Medicine 2009; 121: 154-61.

Wahl AK, Gjengedal E, Hanestad BR. “The bodily suffering of living with severe psoriasis: in-depth interviews with 22 hospitalized patients with psoriasis.” Qualitative Health Research 2002; 12: 250-61.

All content solely developed by the American Academy of Dermatology

]]> http://www.vashonorganics.com/education_center/psoriasis-increases-risk-for-depression-studies-show/feed/ http://www.vashonorganics.com/education_center/psoriasis-action-plan-dealing-with-depression/ http://www.vashonorganics.com/education_center/psoriasis-action-plan-dealing-with-depression/#comments Tue, 15 Dec 2009 21:04:18 +0000 Steve Reed http://www.vashonorganics.com/education_center/?p=413

When depression hits, doing virtually anything is hard. Curling up and shutting out the world often seems like the best approach. Overcoming depression, however, requires action.

Research shows that starting small makes taking action doable. To help you start small, here are 10 tips from which to choose.

1. Join a psoriasis support group.

Why: Sharing your thoughts with others who face similar challenges can be empowering. Almost two-thirds (65.7%) of the people who joined an online psoriasis support group said the online support enabled them to gain a sense of control. After joining an online psoriasis support group, nearly half (49.5%) believed that their quality of life improved, and almost as many (41.0%) said the severity of their psoriasis lessened.

2. Learn more about psoriasis.

Why: Research shows that becoming informed about a medical condition with which one is living helps a person to live well. There are many sources for learning more about psoriasis, including your dermatologist and this Web site.

3. Learn about the different treatment options for psoriasis.

Why: In a survey, more than three-fourths (78%) of people living with severe psoriasis said that their “treatment does not work well enough, and it does not make their disease more manageable.” Almost one-third (32%) of these people said that their treatment is not aggressive enough. By learning what treatment options are available, you will be able to discuss these options with your dermatologist during your next appointment.

You will find information about psoriasis therapies at Treatment.

4. Tell your dermatologist if the results from your treatment disappoint you.

Why: In a telephone survey, almost half (49%) of the people confessed that they are “only somewhat satisfied” or “not at all satisfied” with their psoriasis treatment. Other studies have found that when treatment effectively controls psoriasis, a person’s symptoms of depression lessen. Improvements in both can be seen as early as 4 weeks.

5. Take a walk, or get some other form of physical exercise.

Why: When depression hits or your psoriasis flares, exercising is probably the last thing you want to do. What we least feel like doing, however, can be the most helpful. Studies show that regular exercise can be as effective at lifting depression as antidepressant medication.

6. Write it out.

Why: Research shows that the simple act of writing down your thoughts can help lift depression. The writing does not have to be polished or even sensible to anyone else. Oftentimes just writing down your feelings and then shredding the paper boosts a person’s mood.

7. Limit alcohol.

Why: Researchers have found an association between higher alcohol consumption and higher levels of anxiety and depression.

8. Try not to isolate yourself.

Why: Being around other people will make you feel less depressed. Isolation and feeling lonely worsen depression.

9. Seek a consultation with a qualified psychiatrist or psychologist.

Why: If you have depression, anxiety, or anger, chances are that you feel this way because of something that has happened in your life. These feelings may come from coping with psoriasis, and they may not. A skilled psychiatrist or psychologist can help you unearth what is causing these feelings and help you confront the problem.

10. Make a list of activities that you previously enjoyed. Then pick one that you can do this week.

Why: While it may seem that nothing can bring you joy, that is simply not true. Such thoughts stem from the depression. Making time for what you enjoy plays a key role in overcoming depression. An activity need not be extravagant; it can be as simple as listening to your favorite music or reading a book.

Your Action Plan
If you have depression, it can feel impossibly difficult to get started. The key is to start small. Answering the following can help you take that first step.

This week, I promise myself that I will commit to the following to help myself feel better:

Courtesy of the American Academy of Dermatology

by Mia, Lisa, Marisa and the entire Campaign for Safe Cosmetics team

Today, Campaign for Safe Cosmetics founding member Environmental Working Group released a new study that found 232 chemical contaminants in umbilical cord blood samples from 10 newborn American babies. Among the findings: two synthetic musks, components of fragrance, were found in 7 of the 10 cord blood samples.

Artificial musks commonly added to fragrances and personal care products can be absorbed through skin or inhaled, and concentrate and persist in our bodies - so our many small exposures can add up fast. Synthetic musks have also been found in human breast milk and fatty tissues, and are ubiquitous in wastewater and rivers.

The cosmetics industry and other industries that use “fragrance” in their products use a whopping 9,000 tons of synthetic musk annually, despite the fact that little is known about the safety of these chemicals. Unfortunately, preliminary research raises concerns: musks may disrupt hormones and are toxic to aquatic life.

Because of a loophole in labeling law, the ingredients in “fragrance” are considered trade secrets, so companies don’t have to tell us what’s in scents - often dozens or even hundreds of synthetic chemical compounds like synthetic musks and other ingredients linked to harm.

Biomonitoring studies like this one make clear that chemicals - many of which have never been tested for long-term safety or are known to be harmful - used in everyday products are ending up in our bodies and in our ecosystem. At the same time, cancer, infertility, and behavioral and developmental illnesses linked to many of these chemicals of concern are on the rise.

As consumers and citizens, we can fight the fragrance loophole. Here are three ways you can make a difference:

1. Contact the manufacturer of a cosmetic product in your bathroom that lists “fragrance,” “perfume” or “musk” on the ingredient label, and ask the maker to use non-toxic ingredients and fully disclose all ingredients on products labels. Click here for contact info, talking points and a short response form so you can let us how your conversation went!

2. This holiday season, choose gifts free of synthetic fragrance. Consult the list of companies that have signed the Compact for Safe Cosmetics, and use EWG’s Skin Deep database to run an “advanced search” of products without synthetic fragrance.

3. Check out our DIY cosmetics recipes for creative, fresh gifts for you and yours!

Thank you for making a difference in 2009, whether you wrote a letter to a company or Congress, contacted the FDA or switched out your old products for safe alternatives. You’re a vital part of our work for safer cosmetics and smarter laws that protect our health.

Wishing you a healthy, happy holiday season and New Year!

- Mia, Lisa, Marisa and the entire Campaign for Safe Cosmetics team

by Alan Fleischer, Jr., M.D. - 11/11/2009

Have you ever noticed small, acne-like, red bumps on your arms, thighs or buttocks often accompanied by dry patches of skin that look and feel like sandpaper? If so, you are not alone. In fact, the American Academy of Dermatology estimates as many as 20 percent to 40 percent of the population may suffer  from a skin disorder known as keratosis pilaris (KP), which is caused by protein in the skin, called keratin, forming hard plugs within the hair follicle.

KP often raises its ugly head during the teenage years and can persist into adulthood. Small bumps, sometimes surrounded by a pinkish hue, are often the first symptom associated with KP, and are usually accompanied by dry skin. While the cause is unknown, KP tends to be genetic. The disease is most prominent during the dry skin season, from October to March, and can be exacerbated by cold air.

As a practicing dermatologist, I see many patients looking for relief from the dry skin associated with KP. KP is best managed with moisturizers containing lactic acid. Lactic acid is a humectant that helps the skin retain moisture and at the same time exfoliates and softens the skin. Not all moisturizers contain lactic acid so it is very important to check the product label.

Lactic acid has been used for decades, and dermatologists have extensive experience with this exfoliant.  The challenge in formulating lactic acid for moisturizers is to maximize the concentration of the exfoliant while minimizing the potential for burning and stinging. Acidic products can cause stinging on sensitive skin and careful formulation approaches minimizes this potential. In addition, virtually all ingredients applied to the skin have the potential to be absorbed systemically or in the bloodstream. However, if one applies lactic acid containing lotions to normal skin or KP, the absorption is so trivial as to be of no concern. Because of their proven safety, FDA allows lactic acid to be used in over-the-counter (OTC) moisturizing products.

There is no area of active research surrounding new ways to treat KP. AmLactin® XL was developed with a combination of multiple different lactic acid exfoliants, which allows for greater concentrations of the alphahydroxy acids. Although not proven, other alphahydroxy acids such as glycolic acid likely work to treat KP. The retinoids Retin-A Micro or Renova, Differin, Tazorac or Avage, and possibly retinol, likely help as well. These acne and photoaging drugs act differently than the alphahydroxy acids, possibly synergistic, but are far costlier and require a prescription.

There is no cure for KP, but the good news is with proper daily skin care, KP sufferers can manage KP and potentially minimize outbreaks. Here are a few practical tips:

1. Keep your skin hydrated and moisturized daily.

2. Avoid hot showers or baths as they can dry out skin and encourage symptoms of KP.

3. Avoid heavily scented soaps and cleansers.

4. Wash with mild ingredients and non-scented products.

5. Add a humidifier to your home or bedroom, especially if you live in a particularly dry area.

6. Don’t scratch the affected area of the skin. Scratching can cause irritation and increase the likelihood of infection or redness.

7. Not all moisturizers are alike. KP is best managed with moisturizers containing lactic acid, which is a humectant that helps the skin retain the moisture and at the same time exfoliates and softens the skin. Not all moisturizers contain lactic acid so it is very important to check the product label. One moisturizer with lactic acid for severe dry skin is AmLactin®, which when applied twice daily on skin affected by KP can help manage the dry skin associated with KP.

KP can seem like a nagging problem, but when tended to daily, signs and symptoms can be kept under control. For additional information about KP visit www.aad.org, the official Web site of the American Academy of Dermatology.

Alan Fleischer, Jr., M.D., is the professor and Chair of the Department of Dermatology at Wake Forest University School of Medicine in Winston-Salem, N.C., director of the General Dermatology Clinics, and co-director of the Center for Dermatology Research. He trained as an undergraduate and medical student at the University of Missouri-Columbia. He has published five dermatology textbooks, more than 250 peer-reviewed articles, and has presented results from his research and medical care throughout the United States and on multiple other continents. Since 2000, he has been selected by his peers as one of the “Best Doctors in America.”

Courtesy of Inside Cosmeceuticals (http://www.insidecosmeceuticals.com)

November 17, 2009

We’d like to think that mama’s belly is a safe, non-toxic environment. Yet according to research released today, pregnant women’s bodies are polluted with chemicals found in consumer products - including cosmetics.

In “Earliest Exposures,” our partners at Washington Toxics Coalition, Commonweal and the Toxic-Free Legacy Coalition report that chemicals that may disrupt development and hormonal systems were found in all nine of the pregnant women who participated in a recent biomonitoring study. We know that chemicals pass from mother to fetus in the womb, and even small amounts of toxic chemicals can have serious, long-lasting impacts on health.

One of the women in the study, Amy, was frustrated to find out that she had a chemical called DEP (a phthalate often found in cosmetics via “fragrance”) in her body while she was pregnant, despite her efforts to choose cosmetics carefully. But it would be impossible for Amy to know what she’s really putting on her body because gaping loopholes in federal law allow fragrance ingredients like DEP to be omitted from cosmetic ingredient labels.

And that brings us to the question we shouldn’t have to ask: Congress, will you support our efforts to make sure women like Amy are protected from harmful chemicals in cosmetics?

The Campaign for Safe Cosmetics has made progress on getting phthalates out of fragrance and nail polish, but we need action from Congress to make sure all cosmetics are safe. You can help.

-Mia, Lisa, Marisa and all of us at the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics

www.safecosmetics.org

Hair loss, acne, rosacea and leg veins among the more common medical dermatologic concerns that come with age

NEW YORK (Nov 10, 2009) — Everyone expects their bodies to change as they get older. From wrinkles and sagging skin to brittle bones and aches and pains, the aging process is inevitable. In addition, there are a number of medical dermatologic conditions that surface with age that can cause people even more stress. Fortunately, dermatologists can help diagnose and treat these conditions no matter when they strike.

Speaking today at the American Academy of Dermatology’s SKIN academy (Academy), dermatologist Debra Jaliman, MD, FAAD, assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York, N.Y., discussed why hair loss, acne, rosacea, and leg veins can occur as we age and she presented some of the latest ways to treat them.

“When we age, a number of changes take place on and beneath the surface of our skin that can affect how we look and feel,” said Dr. Jaliman. “But while we might expect to see fine lines and wrinkles as the years pass, many of us might be surprised to wake up one day with adult-onset acne, thinning hair or embarrassing spider veins. The reality is that many dermatologic conditions are more likely to affect us as we age, and the key is to address these problems early to rule out more serious medical conditions and start proper treatment.”

Hair Loss Can Be Treated Effectively
Many people are genetically predisposed to hair loss, but it becomes increasingly common with age. Dr. Jaliman noted that everyone over age 40 has less hair than they did when they were younger – even if the hair does not appear thinner on the surface.

The most common form of hair loss that affects both men and women is androgenetic alopecia (often referred to as male-pattern hair loss or female-pattern hair loss). In both genders, a miniaturization of the hair follicles occurs – meaning the hair stays on the head for a shorter period of time due to a short growth phase. As a result, a person will develop baby fine hairs that do not reach their full length or diameter. In men, this results in a receding hairline or baldness on top of the scalp. However, in women, the frontal hairline is not affected but there is visible thinning over the crown and at the part.

Before starting any treatment for hair loss, Dr. Jaliman stressed that it is important for men and women to see a dermatologist for proper diagnosis and to rule out a potentially serious medical condition, such as lupus, thyroid disease, or iron-deficiency anemia. Other causes of hair loss include drug reactions, birth control pills, menopause, or a diet lacking in protein.

To treat hair loss, several effective therapies are available for both men and women. For men with male-pattern hair loss, effective medical therapies that are FDA-approved include finasteride, a prescription oral medication, and minoxidil 2% and 5%, topical solutions that are available over the counter. For women with hair loss, minoxidil 2% is the only topical medication approved by the FDA for female-pattern hair loss.

For men and women who want a permanent solution for hair loss, Dr. Jaliman said that hair transplants are a good option because surgical hair restoration has evolved in recent years and the results are much more natural than in the past. Now, single follicular units (or one hair at a time) are implanted in thinning and bald areas rather than clusters of hair, often referred to as plugs. To prevent future hair loss, Dr. Jaliman suggested that hair transplant patients supplement their treatment with a medical therapy recommended by their dermatologists.

Adult Acne Occurs More Frequently in Women than in Men
Often mistakenly considered a condition that only affects teenagers, acne can occur at any age and is very common in adults in their 20s, 30s, and 40s. Acne that occurs during the teenage years generally affects more boys than girls, but adult acne occurs more frequently in women than men. Studies show that acne affects more than 50 percent of women between the ages of 20-29 and more than 25 percent of women between the ages of 40-49.

Dr. Jaliman explained that the two main causes of acne in women can be attributed to hormones (referred to as hormonal acne) and cosmetics (known as acne cosmetica). In hormonal acne, an increase in the production of androgens (the male hormones present in men and women) can over-stimulate the oil glands and hair follicles in the skin, leading to hormonally triggered acne flares, particularly in women.

To treat hormonal acne in women, Dr. Jaliman noted that there are several oral contraceptives available – three of which have been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of acne. These therapies can be beneficial, but Dr. Jaliman cautioned that a patient must be carefully screened and matched with the right therapy before starting treatment because some birth control pills  can cause acne in certain patients.

In addition, time-released antibiotics that are now dosed by a person’s body weight can be very effective, and laser and light treatments also can help treat acne lesions and reduce future breakouts in many patients.

For women whose acne is attributed to cosmetics, Dr. Jaliman advises patients to stop using these products and switch to a different brand that has been tested as noncomedogenic (does not clog pores). “With acne cosmetica, stopping use of the cosmetics is an important first step, but a dermatologist should still extract all the clogged pores and prescribe a topical medication for long-term clearing,” she said.

In addition, a type of acne that frequently occurs in African-Americans and is caused by hair products is pomade acne. African-Americans tend to have dry hair and they often use conditioners and products that are very oily to help add moisture to the hair. However, these products tend to be comedogenic and can cause acne breakouts in areas where they come in contact with the skin, such as around the hairline, on the forehead, and at the nape of the neck. If this occurs, Dr. Jaliman said people should stop using these products and see a dermatologist to successfully clear the acne.

Rosacea Can Be Managed
Rosacea is a chronic skin condition characterized by redness, swelling, and vascular abnormalities, most commonly on the face, with varying degrees of severity. It can occur at any age, and Dr. Jaliman explained that rosacea commonly occurs in adults over age 50 and is three times more likely in women. There are many known triggers for rosacea, including alcohol, spicy foods, ultraviolet light, heat and citric acid, and behavioral changes can help alleviate some of the symptoms. However, Dr. Jaliman noted that in most cases medications are necessary to treat rosacea.

“In the past, topical medications for rosacea were greasy and irritating, but now a new wave of topicals has been introduced that are lightweight and easy on the skin,” said Dr. Jaliman. “These new topicals include metronidazole and azeleic acid, and both are very effective for rosacea patients.”

UV exposure is a common trigger for rosacea, and Dr. Jaliman stressed the importance of daily sunscreen use. With the introduction of new sheer sunscreens, Dr. Jaliman said that rosacea patients are more likely to use them because they are not greasy and are less likely to further irritate inflamed skin. “I find that the sunscreens that contain physical sunblocks, such as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, work best for rosacea patients rather than chemically based sunscreens.”

Leg Veins Can Develop at Any Age
The appearance of two common types of leg veins – spider veins and varicose veins – can develop at almost any age. They often appear over time and typically affect those who are older. But Dr. Jaliman noted that even people in their 20s can get spider or varicose veins. Both types of leg veins are genetic, but there are differences in who is more prone to them and how they are treated.

Spider veins, also referred to as roadmap veins, are very tiny superficial blood vessels that increase in size over time. Those who are more susceptible to spider veins include women, women who are pregnant, and people who are on their feet regularly in their jobs.

“While spider veins can be unattractive and cause embarrassment for people, they are not painful and are very treatable,” said Dr. Jaliman. “Sclerotherapy, in which a sclerosing agent is injected into clusters of spider veins with very fine needles, is the gold standard for treating spider veins and dissolves the veins permanently in most cases in only two to three treatments. Lasers also are being used to treat spider veins, and your dermatologist will recommend the best treatment depending on the size of the vessels.”

Varicose veins are larger, dilated blood vessels that can be raised above the skin’s surface and occur from a malfunction of the valve. Those with a blood relative with varicose veins are more likely to develop them and being overweight can worsen the problem by putting more pressure on the veins. Unlike spider veins, varicose veins can cause the legs to feel sore or tired. Dr. Jaliman noted that new endovascular lasers are being used successfully to treat varicose veins. With this procedure, the small tip of the laser creates a small nick in the vein and is inserted to completely dissolve the vein.

“Endovascular lasers are highly safe and effective in treating varicose veins and only one procedure is needed to dissolve the veins,” said Dr. Jaliman. “In most cases, patients can go back to work the next day with minimal discomfort, which is quite different from invasive procedures in the past that were performed in hospitals.”

Regardless of age, Dr. Jaliman added that people who notice any unusual changes in their skin, hair or nails should see their dermatologist.

For more information about aging skin, please visit the “AgingSkinNet” section of www.skincarephysicians.com, a Web site developed by dermatologists that provides patients with up-to-date information on the treatment and management of disorders of the skin, hair and nails.

Copyright © 2009 American Academy of Dermatology. All rights reserved.