Acne and rosacea are two seemingly different skin conditions that have one important thing in common: both are chronic and extremely common skin conditions. However, dermatologists recommend that with proper diagnosis, treatment and a healthy dose of good, old-fashioned skin care, acne and rosacea can be less of a nuisance for patients.
Speaking today at the 68th Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Dermatology (Academy), dermatologist Jenny J. Kim, MD, PhD, FAAD, associate professor of dermatology at the University of California, Los Angeles, (UCLA) David Geffen School of Medicine in Los Angeles, discussed the latest treatments for acne and rosacea and how ongoing research into the causes of these conditions holds promise for future therapies.
For more information about Acne Treatments at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=177
“Sometimes it is hard for patients dealing with acne or rosacea to understand why, even with ongoing treatment, they cannot get rid of their symptoms forever,” said Dr. Kim. “I explain to them that these conditions are similar to having any chronic disease, like having diabetes – there is no cure yet, but we can control the symptoms. Just like insulin helps maintain a diabetic’s blood sugar, patients with acne and rosacea need to find a treatment regimen that works for them to maintain clear skin.”
Acne: An Equal-Opportunity Skin Condition
It is estimated that 40 million to 50 million Americans are affected by some form of acne. While acne is commonly associated with teenagers struggling with the growing pains of adolescence, this skin condition can strike at any age. In fact, Dr. Kim emphasized that it affects adults in their 20s, 30s, 40s and even in their 50s, especially in women and even in people who never had acne as teenagers. The causes of acne include excess oil production,skin inflammation, skin cells in the hair follicles that shed too quickly and an increased number of the acne-causing bacteria Propionbacterium acnes. However, hormones also influence both oil production and the shedding of skin cells, thereby contributing to the formation of acne lesions. For example, when androgens (the male hormones present in both men and women) over-stimulate the oil glands and hair follicles in the skin, hormonal acne flares can occur.
In the past, most cases of acne were treated solely with antibiotics. While these treatments can be very successful, a growing concern about long-term antibiotic use is that bacteria are evolving to become resistant to these medications. As a result, the development of other effective therapies and combination therapies has evolved.
For example, Dr. Kim noted that some of the newer therapies for acne are anti-inflammatories, which can be used in some cases to lessen the severity of acne. Controlled-release of lower dose doxycycline is a newer anti-inflammatory oral medication that some dermatologists use to reduce the redness and swelling of acne. Combination therapies, which may include an anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects that can decrease resistance and are more convenient to use for patients, has made combination therapeutics increasingly common treatments used to manage acne.
Another newer approach to treating acne is the use of lasers and light-based technologies as a complementary treatment to traditional medical therapies. Dr. Kim noted that these technologies include the pulsed-dye laser, red and blue light, and photodynamic therapy, which target the sebaceous (or oil) glands and can reduce acne flares. While Dr. Kim does not recommend lasers and light-based technologies as first-line therapies for acne, she believes it is a promising new area of research.
“Patients are becoming increasingly concerned about the long-term use of oral medications to fight acne, so lasers and light sources appeal to them,” said Dr. Kim. “The problem is that there are limited large, prospective, well-controlled studies that demonstrate the effectiveness of laser and light technology at this point, so that will be an area we need to explore in the future. It’s very likely that with the advancement in dermatologic research, we will see sebaceous gland targeting lasers in the future that will be effective for the treatment of acne.”
Dr. Kim added that many patients are concerned about scarring that can result from acne, and many acne scars can be very aggressive and difficult to treat. For mild scarring, retinoids, chemical peels, microdermabrasion, and lasers can give mild improvement. In addition, fillers can be used successfully to fill in depressed areas and improve the appearance of scars.
Another therapy that is approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for acne scarring is fractional laser resurfacing. This laser technology works by targeting damaged skin in columns of microscopic treatment zones, which include the outermost and underlying layers of skin known as the epidermis and the dermis. Fractional laser resurfacing thermally damages the tiny columns of scarred skin while the surrounding healthy skin is left intact.
“One of the main benefits of fractional resurfacing is wound healing and increased collagen production that reduces acne scars,” said Dr. Kim. “However, most patients will notice only a modest improvement in acne scarring and multiple treatments are required. For more severe scarring, such as deep ‘ice pick’ scars, several acne surgical procedures can be used – including punch grafting or punch excision – to remove, raise, fill or separate the scar tissue from the underlying skin. These surgical procedures in combination with other therapies, including lasers and fillers, can produce improvement for severe acne scarring.”
Rosacea Triggers and Treatments
Rosacea, another chronic skin condition, affects an estimated 14 million people in the United States and is characterized by redness, flushing and prominent blood vessels on the face. Dr. Kim explained that rosacea commonly occurs in older people, and there are many known triggers for this bothersome condition – including sunlight, alcohol, spicy foods, caffeine, heat, citric acid, and stress.
While the exact cause of rosacea is not fully understood, Dr. Kim noted that a recent study suggests that the presence of an abnormal peptide (a small protein) in the skin of rosacea patients may contribute to the disease.
“There is some evidence to suggest that the peptide cathelicidin within the skin is processed differently in rosacea patients than in individuals not affected by rosacea and induces inflammation that may contribute to rosacea,” explained Dr. Kim. “These findings are encouraging, as we can identify better treatments for the disease if we have a better understanding of what the cause might be.”
Over the years, lasers have been shown to be effective in treating the symptoms of rosacea. For example, Dr. Kim mentioned that pulsed-dye lasers work well for rosacea patients with lots of broken blood vessels, and both pulsed-dye laser and intense-pulsed light treatments are effective at treating redness on the face and flushing associated with rosacea.
"Patients undergoing laser therapy for rosacea will likely need multiple treatments. However, I have found lasers and light treatments to be very effective and produce long-lasting results,” said Dr. Kim.
In addition to oral treatments, a number of topical medications have been introduced to treat rosacea, and Dr. Kim explained that metronidazole and azeleic acid are two topicals that are tolerated well and effective in reducing the symptoms of rosacea.
Good Skin Care: Good for All
For patients with acne or rosacea whose skin is often sensitive, Dr. Kim emphasized that proper skin care is very important as part of their overall treatment regimen. In addition to avoiding products or behaviors that tend to make acne or rosacea worse, patients may find that gentle skin care can help alleviate some of the redness or irritation common with these conditions.
“I advise my patients to use a mild cleanser and sun protection that is non-irritating to the skin every day, particularly a moisturizer that contains sunscreen,” said Dr. Kim. “While skin care products containing too many acids can be irritating to sensitive skin, I find that products containing salicylic acid are useful for some acne patients. Separating treatments, such as using salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide in the morning and a retinol-based product at night, might be helpful for patients with sensitive skin.”
Dr. Kim also noted that while over-the-counter products containing salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide may help control mild acne, patients should avoid using too many products at once on their skin to try to manage acne.
“The old adage ‘less is more’ applies to patients with sensitive skin,” said Dr. Kim. “The best advice is to discuss your skin care regimen with your dermatologist who can recommend products based on not only your specific skin condition, but your individual skin type as well.”
To learn more about acne and rosacea, visit www.skincarephysicians.com, a Web site developed by dermatologists that provides patients with up-to-date information on the treatment and management of conditions of the skin, hair and nails.
Headquartered in Schaumburg, Ill., the American Academy of Dermatology (Academy), founded in 1938, is the largest, most influential, and most representative of all dermatologic associations. With a membership of more than 16,000 physicians worldwide, the Academy is committed to: advancing the diagnosis and medical, surgical and cosmetic treatment of the skin, hair and nails; advocating high standards in clinical practice, education, and research in dermatology; and supporting and enhancing patient care for a lifetime of healthier skin, hair and nails. For more information, contact the Academy at 1-888-462-DERM (3376) or www.aad.org.
For more information about Acne Treatments at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=177
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
Advances Help Dermatologists Diagnose, Treat Early Melanomas
According to estimates from the American Cancer Society, melanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer, was responsible for an estimated 8,650 deaths in the United States in 2009. Of growing concern among dermatologists is the fact that melanoma is now the most common form of cancer for young adults 25-29 years old and the second most common cancer in adolescents and young adults 15-29 years old1. Early diagnosis is the key to curing this potentially deadly disease, and diagnostic tools are playing a crucial role in aiding dermatologists to spot melanomas at earlier – and more curable – stages.
Speaking today at the 68th Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Dermatology (Academy), dermatologist Harold S. Rabinovitz, MD, FAAD, volunteer professor in the department of dermatology at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine in Miami, Fla., reviewed the latest diagnostics used to catch early stage melanomas and why a long-standing visual aid continues to help dermatologists – and patients – understand the nuances of this cancer.
“Unfortunately, melanoma is the great masquerader and millions of moles have at least one feature that falls into the criteria dermatologists refer to as the ABCDEs of melanoma,” said Dr. Rabinovitz. “That’s why in addition to visually inspecting the skin, high-tech diagnostic tools in the future will be helpful in determining whether a suspicious mole is actually a melanoma or a benign lesion.”
ABCDs and E of Melanoma
One of the key educational tools used to train physicians, medical personnel and the general public on how to recognize early melanomas is the ABCDEs of Melanoma Detection. These characteristics of moles for which individuals should check their skin include Asymmetry (one half unlike the other half), Border (irregular, scalloped or poorly defined), Color (varies from one area to another; shades of tan and brown, black; sometimes white, red or blue), and Diameter (the size of a pencil eraser or larger).
Dr. Rabinovitz explained that recently the Academy has added an “E” to these criteria, which stands for Evolving (or changing in size, shape or color). “A mole with any of these characteristics, or one that is an ‘ugly duckling’ – meaning it looks different from the rest – should be brought to a dermatologist’s attention immediately for proper evaluation,” said Dr. Rabinovitz. “Visually inspecting a suspicious mole is the first step in determining whether it is a melanoma, and dermatologists now have a host of technologically advanced tools to confirm a diagnosis.”
Dermoscopy
Since there are few surface features to distinguish melanomas from benign pigmented lesions, more dermatologists are using hand-held microscopes to identify features not visible to the naked eye. Dr. Rabinovitz explained that these hand-held microscopes, known as dermatoscopes, work by magnifying and illuminating the mole – increasing the ability to diagnose melanoma.
“In instances where a definitive diagnosis cannot be determined with dermoscopy, a biopsy – in which a small sample of tissue from the suspicious lesion is removed and examined in the laboratory – would be needed,” said Dr. Rabinovitz.
Full-Body Photography and Mole Mapping
Total-body photography is an important tool used by some dermatologists in the surveillance of high-risk individuals who may develop melanoma. For example, having numerous moles puts an individual at high risk for melanoma. Dr. Rabinovitz noted that there are some individuals who are at higher risk for developing melanoma not only within their existing moles but also within their normal skin. Only 30 percent of melanomas occur within a pre-existing mole.
Photographs provide a record against which we can assess changes in moles over time,” said Dr. Rabinovitz. “The documented change, or lack thereof, is biologic information that we can use to consider whether an excision is necessary.”
Some of the indications for using total-body photography include personal history of melanoma, family history of melanoma, atypical mole syndrome, or multiple moles of different size, shape and color.
Another less commonly used method of following change with pigmented lesions is mole mapping. With this technology, suspicious moles can be digitized with demoscopy cameras and reimaged at three- to six-month intervals to determine if any changes in characteristics have occurred in this time.
“Mole mapping has been selectively useful in detecting early melanomas, as it offers a baseline for comparing changes in skin lesions,” said Dr. Rabinovitz. “It is especially beneficial in high-risk patients who may have so many atypical moles that it becomes difficult to remove all of these unusual appearing moles that are not melanoma on biopsy.”
Reflectance Confocal Microscopy (RCM)
The ongoing effort to enhance the clinical diagnosis of melanoma has led to the development of other non-invasive imaging techniques. One such technique is reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM), which offers imaging at cellular level resolution and allows the visualization of both the epidermis (top layer of skin) and the upper dermis (the deepest layer of skin) in real time. This procedure is performed with a laser light that is able to focus on a specific spot within the tissue, which is then automatically scanned over the entire level of the skin.
“The ability to scan both the epidermis and the dermis has made RCM a promising technique for the non-invasive diagnosis of skin growths and response to non-invasive treatment,” said Dr. Rabinovitz. “In fact, a recent study has demonstrated that RCM enhances the secondary evaluation of moles and melanoma, making it potentially an important diagnostic tool in monitoring changes beneath the skin.”
Gene Profiling
Based on preliminary data, gene profiling is an exciting new research area within medicine that Dr. Rabinovitz believes might play a role in the clinical evaluation of melanoma. Gene profiling measures the activity of thousands of genes simultaneously to create an overall impression of how cells function.
Cancer at its most basic level is a genetic disease, and the biological events that initiate the malignancy represent alterations in the expression of genes. Like normal cells, biomarkers exist for cancerous cells and this signature can be used to identify“cancer,” said Dr. Rabinovitz. “In the case of melanoma, the object would be to identify an alteration in genes to create a classifier for clinical diagnostic purposes.” This is being performed with tape stripping of moles.
Future Technologies
Over the past 15 years, researchers have studied technologies that could accurately diagnose pigmented lesions, with the goal of developing a reliable, non-invasive diagnostic tool to aid dermatologists in the early detection of melanoma. One such device, the computerized image analysis system, uses a computerized analysis algorithm for the automatic diagnosis of melanoma.
“The technological advances in melanoma detection in the future will significantly improve our ability to detect early melanomas and help save countless lives,” said Dr. Rabinovitz. “However, keeping a vigilant eye on our skin for any changes that could signal a problem is an irreplaceable first step in the process.”
Academy Provides Free, Do-it-Yourself Tool for Tracking Moles
To help spot melanoma at its earliest, and most curable, stage, the Academy recommends that everyone should be familiar with the ABCDEs of melanoma and report any suspicious moles or changes in the skin to a dermatologist for proper diagnosis. In addition, the Academy’s “Body Mole Map,” which can be downloaded on the Academy’s website at http://www.melanomamonday.org/documents/Body_Mole_Map_11-09.pdf, is a tool that creates a record for people to track where spots appear on their skin and if these spots have changed over time when new skin self-exams are performed.
Headquartered in Schaumburg, Ill., the American Academy of Dermatology (Academy), founded in 1938, is the largest, most influential, and most representative of all dermatologic associations. With a membership of more than 16,000 physicians worldwide, the Academy is committed to: advancing the diagnosis and medical, surgical and cosmetic treatment of the skin, hair and nails; advocating high standards in clinical practice, education, and research in dermatology; and supporting and enhancing patient care for a lifetime of healthier skin, hair and nails. For more information, contact the Academy at 1-888-462-DERM (3376) or www.aad.org.
Derma Health Institute
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com
Speaking today at the 68th Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Dermatology (Academy), dermatologist Harold S. Rabinovitz, MD, FAAD, volunteer professor in the department of dermatology at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine in Miami, Fla., reviewed the latest diagnostics used to catch early stage melanomas and why a long-standing visual aid continues to help dermatologists – and patients – understand the nuances of this cancer.
“Unfortunately, melanoma is the great masquerader and millions of moles have at least one feature that falls into the criteria dermatologists refer to as the ABCDEs of melanoma,” said Dr. Rabinovitz. “That’s why in addition to visually inspecting the skin, high-tech diagnostic tools in the future will be helpful in determining whether a suspicious mole is actually a melanoma or a benign lesion.”
ABCDs and E of Melanoma
One of the key educational tools used to train physicians, medical personnel and the general public on how to recognize early melanomas is the ABCDEs of Melanoma Detection. These characteristics of moles for which individuals should check their skin include Asymmetry (one half unlike the other half), Border (irregular, scalloped or poorly defined), Color (varies from one area to another; shades of tan and brown, black; sometimes white, red or blue), and Diameter (the size of a pencil eraser or larger).
Dr. Rabinovitz explained that recently the Academy has added an “E” to these criteria, which stands for Evolving (or changing in size, shape or color). “A mole with any of these characteristics, or one that is an ‘ugly duckling’ – meaning it looks different from the rest – should be brought to a dermatologist’s attention immediately for proper evaluation,” said Dr. Rabinovitz. “Visually inspecting a suspicious mole is the first step in determining whether it is a melanoma, and dermatologists now have a host of technologically advanced tools to confirm a diagnosis.”
Dermoscopy
Since there are few surface features to distinguish melanomas from benign pigmented lesions, more dermatologists are using hand-held microscopes to identify features not visible to the naked eye. Dr. Rabinovitz explained that these hand-held microscopes, known as dermatoscopes, work by magnifying and illuminating the mole – increasing the ability to diagnose melanoma.
“In instances where a definitive diagnosis cannot be determined with dermoscopy, a biopsy – in which a small sample of tissue from the suspicious lesion is removed and examined in the laboratory – would be needed,” said Dr. Rabinovitz.
Full-Body Photography and Mole Mapping
Total-body photography is an important tool used by some dermatologists in the surveillance of high-risk individuals who may develop melanoma. For example, having numerous moles puts an individual at high risk for melanoma. Dr. Rabinovitz noted that there are some individuals who are at higher risk for developing melanoma not only within their existing moles but also within their normal skin. Only 30 percent of melanomas occur within a pre-existing mole.
Photographs provide a record against which we can assess changes in moles over time,” said Dr. Rabinovitz. “The documented change, or lack thereof, is biologic information that we can use to consider whether an excision is necessary.”
Some of the indications for using total-body photography include personal history of melanoma, family history of melanoma, atypical mole syndrome, or multiple moles of different size, shape and color.
Another less commonly used method of following change with pigmented lesions is mole mapping. With this technology, suspicious moles can be digitized with demoscopy cameras and reimaged at three- to six-month intervals to determine if any changes in characteristics have occurred in this time.
“Mole mapping has been selectively useful in detecting early melanomas, as it offers a baseline for comparing changes in skin lesions,” said Dr. Rabinovitz. “It is especially beneficial in high-risk patients who may have so many atypical moles that it becomes difficult to remove all of these unusual appearing moles that are not melanoma on biopsy.”
Reflectance Confocal Microscopy (RCM)
The ongoing effort to enhance the clinical diagnosis of melanoma has led to the development of other non-invasive imaging techniques. One such technique is reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM), which offers imaging at cellular level resolution and allows the visualization of both the epidermis (top layer of skin) and the upper dermis (the deepest layer of skin) in real time. This procedure is performed with a laser light that is able to focus on a specific spot within the tissue, which is then automatically scanned over the entire level of the skin.
“The ability to scan both the epidermis and the dermis has made RCM a promising technique for the non-invasive diagnosis of skin growths and response to non-invasive treatment,” said Dr. Rabinovitz. “In fact, a recent study has demonstrated that RCM enhances the secondary evaluation of moles and melanoma, making it potentially an important diagnostic tool in monitoring changes beneath the skin.”
Gene Profiling
Based on preliminary data, gene profiling is an exciting new research area within medicine that Dr. Rabinovitz believes might play a role in the clinical evaluation of melanoma. Gene profiling measures the activity of thousands of genes simultaneously to create an overall impression of how cells function.
Cancer at its most basic level is a genetic disease, and the biological events that initiate the malignancy represent alterations in the expression of genes. Like normal cells, biomarkers exist for cancerous cells and this signature can be used to identify“cancer,” said Dr. Rabinovitz. “In the case of melanoma, the object would be to identify an alteration in genes to create a classifier for clinical diagnostic purposes.” This is being performed with tape stripping of moles.
Future Technologies
Over the past 15 years, researchers have studied technologies that could accurately diagnose pigmented lesions, with the goal of developing a reliable, non-invasive diagnostic tool to aid dermatologists in the early detection of melanoma. One such device, the computerized image analysis system, uses a computerized analysis algorithm for the automatic diagnosis of melanoma.
“The technological advances in melanoma detection in the future will significantly improve our ability to detect early melanomas and help save countless lives,” said Dr. Rabinovitz. “However, keeping a vigilant eye on our skin for any changes that could signal a problem is an irreplaceable first step in the process.”
Academy Provides Free, Do-it-Yourself Tool for Tracking Moles
To help spot melanoma at its earliest, and most curable, stage, the Academy recommends that everyone should be familiar with the ABCDEs of melanoma and report any suspicious moles or changes in the skin to a dermatologist for proper diagnosis. In addition, the Academy’s “Body Mole Map,” which can be downloaded on the Academy’s website at http://www.melanomamonday.org/documents/Body_Mole_Map_11-09.pdf, is a tool that creates a record for people to track where spots appear on their skin and if these spots have changed over time when new skin self-exams are performed.
Headquartered in Schaumburg, Ill., the American Academy of Dermatology (Academy), founded in 1938, is the largest, most influential, and most representative of all dermatologic associations. With a membership of more than 16,000 physicians worldwide, the Academy is committed to: advancing the diagnosis and medical, surgical and cosmetic treatment of the skin, hair and nails; advocating high standards in clinical practice, education, and research in dermatology; and supporting and enhancing patient care for a lifetime of healthier skin, hair and nails. For more information, contact the Academy at 1-888-462-DERM (3376) or www.aad.org.
Derma Health Institute
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com
Thursday, July 22, 2010
July 24th Botox and Breakfast One Day Only Event Specials
July 24th, 2010, 9:00 am - 2:00 pm at all Four Derma Health Locations
Take a vacation from wrinkles and attend Derma Health Institute's one-day only Breakfast & Botox event at all four Valley locations.
Stock up and save with our lowest price of the year on Botox: $7.99/unit. 26 unit minimum with no maximum*. Can't attend the event? Click here to order Botox online at this special price and use it later.
The first ten people who show up to Breakfast and Botox, at each location, will receive $100 of Botox for FREE (based on regular price of $9.99 a unit).
Lift & Lengthen: FREE Latisse® Eyelash Lengthener ($120 value) with the purchase of 2 or more syringes of Juvederm. Can't attend the event? Click here to order online at this special price and use it later.
Smooth, Refine, Remove: 35% off all Laser Treatments, including Laser Hair Removal, Laser Vein Removal, Laser Genesis, Photofacials, Titan, VelaShape & Tattoo Removal.
Vacation For Your Face: $39 Papaya Coconut Express Facial.
Breakfast muffins, pastries, flavored coffees, orange juice and mimosas will be served.
Come early! Mark your calendar! Tell your friends! The event is ONE DAY ONLY!
*Not valid with any other offers. May pre-purchase as of Monday, July 19th. Must be present to receive $100 in Free Botox®, giveaways of Juvéderm XC and Latisse and $50 rebate. **Must be registered with Brilliant Distinctions to receive instant rebate. Non Brilliant Distinctions customers can receive a $50 mail-in rebate. Register at brilliantdistinctionsprogram.com.
Take a vacation from wrinkles and attend Derma Health Institute's one-day only Breakfast & Botox event at all four Valley locations.
Stock up and save with our lowest price of the year on Botox: $7.99/unit. 26 unit minimum with no maximum*. Can't attend the event? Click here to order Botox online at this special price and use it later.
The first ten people who show up to Breakfast and Botox, at each location, will receive $100 of Botox for FREE (based on regular price of $9.99 a unit).
Lift & Lengthen: FREE Latisse® Eyelash Lengthener ($120 value) with the purchase of 2 or more syringes of Juvederm. Can't attend the event? Click here to order online at this special price and use it later.
Smooth, Refine, Remove: 35% off all Laser Treatments, including Laser Hair Removal, Laser Vein Removal, Laser Genesis, Photofacials, Titan, VelaShape & Tattoo Removal.
Vacation For Your Face: $39 Papaya Coconut Express Facial.
Breakfast muffins, pastries, flavored coffees, orange juice and mimosas will be served.
Come early! Mark your calendar! Tell your friends! The event is ONE DAY ONLY!
*Not valid with any other offers. May pre-purchase as of Monday, July 19th. Must be present to receive $100 in Free Botox®, giveaways of Juvéderm XC and Latisse and $50 rebate. **Must be registered with Brilliant Distinctions to receive instant rebate. Non Brilliant Distinctions customers can receive a $50 mail-in rebate. Register at brilliantdistinctionsprogram.com.
Skin Filler Works to Stimulate Collagen in Sun-Damaged Skin
In the U.S. and around the world, the popularity of minimally invasive cosmetic procedures continues to increase. Soft tissue injectables, also known as dermal fillers, are popular procedures that improve the appearance of aging and sun-damaged skin by restoring lost volume and filling lines. A recent clinical study sheds light on how cross-linked hyaluronic acid, CL-HA, a widely used dermal filler, works to improve skin appearance.
Speaking today at the 68th Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Dermatology (Academy), dermatologist Dana L. Sachs, MD, FAAD, associate professor in the department of dermatology at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, Mich., presented findings of a study demonstrating how CL-HA stimulates collagen repair in the skin. These findings may partially account for the known clinical benefits of this type of filler.
For more information about Facial Fillers at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=176
Skin aging refers to two common types of aging – natural or chronologic aging and photoaging. Natural aging is characterized by fine lines, skin laxity, and uniform color of sun-exposed and sun-protected skin. Photoaging refers to accelerated skin aging due to the effects of sun exposure. With photoaging, deep, coarse wrinkles, skin laxity, redness and variable discoloration of sun-exposed skin is common.
In both types of skin aging, tissue examination reveals that collagen, the major structural protein of the skin, is fragmented and reduced. In addition, the cells that produce collagen (fibroblasts) exist in a “collapsed” state, meaning that they are not producing collagen optimally or as efficiently as they can.
“From a clinical standpoint, dermatologists know that soft tissue fillers work by restoring volume loss and smoothing wrinkles in aging and sun-damaged skin because we can see immediate improvements in patients’ skin,” said Dr. Sachs. “This biochemical study of cross-linked hyaluronic acid conducted by researchers in the department of dermatology at the University of Michigan Medical School set out to try to explain what takes place at the molecular level to account for the observed clinical improvements.”
Hyaluronic acid is naturally present and is one of the major components of the dermis, the deep skin layer. However, when used as a skin filler, hyaluronic acid must be stabilized (by a technique known as cross-linking), or it will rapidly disappear into the skin. Once hyaluronic acid fillers are stabilized, they are commonly referred to as NASHA (non-animal stabilized hyaluronic acid).
An initial study demonstrated an increase in the production of type I collagen (a primary structural protein in the dermis, which diminishes with normal aging) in all six participants four weeks following a single hyaluronic acid injection into photoaged forearm skin.
A study published in the Archives of Dermatology1 included 11 participants aged 64 to 84 who received hyaluronic acid injections in one photoaged forearm and saline injections in the other photoaged forearm. At four and 13 weeks post injection, skin biopsies were taken from the site of injection in both arms and analyzed in the laboratory using an electron microscope to examine the activity of fibroblasts, the cells that produce collagen. The results indicated that positive changes in the skin occurred at the molecular level in the samples treated with hyaluronic acid.
“Samples of skin injected with NASHA demonstrated evidence of increased newly created type I collagen, especially in the areas surrounding the filler,” explained Dr. Sachs. “In addition, fibroblasts were observed at four and 13 weeks following injection to be in a ‘stretched’ configuration that correlates with increased collagen production.”
While studies examining the biochemical effects of other skin fillers on collagen production have not been conducted yet, Dr. Sachs believes that other skin fillers likely would demonstrate a similar mechanism of action as NASHA.
“These types of biochemistry studies would be exciting to perform with other skin fillers in the future, as I think we would glean an even greater understanding of how fillers work,” said Dr. Sachs. “Eventually, studies examining the mechanism of action of skin fillers would help dermatologists to better understand how to repair aging and photoaged skin and hopefully lead to better and longer-lasting results for our patients.”
“There are a variety of treatment options for aging skin, and your dermatologist can recommend the best ones for you,” reminded Dr. Sachs.
For more information on improving the appearance of your skin, go to 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.
Headquartered in Schaumburg, Ill., the American Academy of Dermatology (Academy), founded in 1938, is the largest, most influential, and most representative of all dermatologic associations. With a membership of more than 16,000 physicians worldwide, the Academy is committed to: advancing the diagnosis and medical, surgical and cosmetic treatment of the skin, hair and nails; advocating high standards in clinical practice, education, and research in dermatology; and supporting and enhancing patient care for a lifetime of healthier skin, hair and nails. For more information, contact the Academy at 1-888-462-DERM (3376) or www.aad.org.
For more information about Facial Fillers at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=176
Speaking today at the 68th Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Dermatology (Academy), dermatologist Dana L. Sachs, MD, FAAD, associate professor in the department of dermatology at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, Mich., presented findings of a study demonstrating how CL-HA stimulates collagen repair in the skin. These findings may partially account for the known clinical benefits of this type of filler.
For more information about Facial Fillers at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=176
Skin aging refers to two common types of aging – natural or chronologic aging and photoaging. Natural aging is characterized by fine lines, skin laxity, and uniform color of sun-exposed and sun-protected skin. Photoaging refers to accelerated skin aging due to the effects of sun exposure. With photoaging, deep, coarse wrinkles, skin laxity, redness and variable discoloration of sun-exposed skin is common.
In both types of skin aging, tissue examination reveals that collagen, the major structural protein of the skin, is fragmented and reduced. In addition, the cells that produce collagen (fibroblasts) exist in a “collapsed” state, meaning that they are not producing collagen optimally or as efficiently as they can.
“From a clinical standpoint, dermatologists know that soft tissue fillers work by restoring volume loss and smoothing wrinkles in aging and sun-damaged skin because we can see immediate improvements in patients’ skin,” said Dr. Sachs. “This biochemical study of cross-linked hyaluronic acid conducted by researchers in the department of dermatology at the University of Michigan Medical School set out to try to explain what takes place at the molecular level to account for the observed clinical improvements.”
Hyaluronic acid is naturally present and is one of the major components of the dermis, the deep skin layer. However, when used as a skin filler, hyaluronic acid must be stabilized (by a technique known as cross-linking), or it will rapidly disappear into the skin. Once hyaluronic acid fillers are stabilized, they are commonly referred to as NASHA (non-animal stabilized hyaluronic acid).
An initial study demonstrated an increase in the production of type I collagen (a primary structural protein in the dermis, which diminishes with normal aging) in all six participants four weeks following a single hyaluronic acid injection into photoaged forearm skin.
A study published in the Archives of Dermatology1 included 11 participants aged 64 to 84 who received hyaluronic acid injections in one photoaged forearm and saline injections in the other photoaged forearm. At four and 13 weeks post injection, skin biopsies were taken from the site of injection in both arms and analyzed in the laboratory using an electron microscope to examine the activity of fibroblasts, the cells that produce collagen. The results indicated that positive changes in the skin occurred at the molecular level in the samples treated with hyaluronic acid.
“Samples of skin injected with NASHA demonstrated evidence of increased newly created type I collagen, especially in the areas surrounding the filler,” explained Dr. Sachs. “In addition, fibroblasts were observed at four and 13 weeks following injection to be in a ‘stretched’ configuration that correlates with increased collagen production.”
While studies examining the biochemical effects of other skin fillers on collagen production have not been conducted yet, Dr. Sachs believes that other skin fillers likely would demonstrate a similar mechanism of action as NASHA.
“These types of biochemistry studies would be exciting to perform with other skin fillers in the future, as I think we would glean an even greater understanding of how fillers work,” said Dr. Sachs. “Eventually, studies examining the mechanism of action of skin fillers would help dermatologists to better understand how to repair aging and photoaged skin and hopefully lead to better and longer-lasting results for our patients.”
“There are a variety of treatment options for aging skin, and your dermatologist can recommend the best ones for you,” reminded Dr. Sachs.
For more information on improving the appearance of your skin, go to 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.
Headquartered in Schaumburg, Ill., the American Academy of Dermatology (Academy), founded in 1938, is the largest, most influential, and most representative of all dermatologic associations. With a membership of more than 16,000 physicians worldwide, the Academy is committed to: advancing the diagnosis and medical, surgical and cosmetic treatment of the skin, hair and nails; advocating high standards in clinical practice, education, and research in dermatology; and supporting and enhancing patient care for a lifetime of healthier skin, hair and nails. For more information, contact the Academy at 1-888-462-DERM (3376) or www.aad.org.
For more information about Facial Fillers at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=176
Who Needs Laser Hair Removal: Men Or Women?
In the past years, hair removal was firmly a female thing. Except for a swimmer, cyclist, bodybuilder, or male exotic dancer, probability is your body hair continued to be untouched. This is not the case anymore because experts inform that more and more men are choosing for equal grooming rights as women and that includes smooth body skin.
For most women, laser hair removal is the most effective way to remove undesirable hair. This process works just as well for men, and is certainly preferable to painful waxing, smelly hair removal creams, or constant shaving. This treatment is certainly the best method to totally eliminate all unwanted hair.
Laser hair removal is now the top non-surgical cosmetic procedure for the under thirty five crowds for both women and men. For people who are wondering how laser hair removal works, it aims the melanin (the dark pigment that gives hair its color), as the melanin absorbs the laser's light, the consequential heat basically destroy the adjacent hair follicles. For men it's an ideal and cost effective way to eliminate undesirable hair on the neck, chest, back and abdomen.
For more information about laser hair removal at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=171
While some men are still stuck in the past, most men now accept that laser hair removal for men is a great way to get rid of that pesky thick out of control hair. Whether they want to get rid of it or just have it weeded down, more of them are finding this an easier and more painless method to use. Shaving and waxing is really painful process. Laser hair removal is the safest and painless procedure to take away unwanted hair from your body.
If you want to remove hair from your back, legs, and yes sometimes even those forbidden places. The process will only take about thirty minutes for laser hair removal for men in most cases. If your skin is dark, there are chances that the process may be shorter. The treatment can vary in price depending on the procedure that you are looking to get done. Things like: the part of the body, how much hair that you have, if you want more than one body part done at once, and whether you want all of the hair removed or just thinned.
If you wanted the hair on your back completely removed and you where of average size, then the cost would be around four hundred dollars to have done. You may save half of the price of the procedure if you want to just trim it down. The price is a very good deal, because there is a good chance that you will only have to pay it once a year. The pain and frustration that laser hair removal for men will bring is worth it. It really just comes down to personal choice.
Article Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com
For most women, laser hair removal is the most effective way to remove undesirable hair. This process works just as well for men, and is certainly preferable to painful waxing, smelly hair removal creams, or constant shaving. This treatment is certainly the best method to totally eliminate all unwanted hair.
Laser hair removal is now the top non-surgical cosmetic procedure for the under thirty five crowds for both women and men. For people who are wondering how laser hair removal works, it aims the melanin (the dark pigment that gives hair its color), as the melanin absorbs the laser's light, the consequential heat basically destroy the adjacent hair follicles. For men it's an ideal and cost effective way to eliminate undesirable hair on the neck, chest, back and abdomen.
For more information about laser hair removal at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=171
While some men are still stuck in the past, most men now accept that laser hair removal for men is a great way to get rid of that pesky thick out of control hair. Whether they want to get rid of it or just have it weeded down, more of them are finding this an easier and more painless method to use. Shaving and waxing is really painful process. Laser hair removal is the safest and painless procedure to take away unwanted hair from your body.
If you want to remove hair from your back, legs, and yes sometimes even those forbidden places. The process will only take about thirty minutes for laser hair removal for men in most cases. If your skin is dark, there are chances that the process may be shorter. The treatment can vary in price depending on the procedure that you are looking to get done. Things like: the part of the body, how much hair that you have, if you want more than one body part done at once, and whether you want all of the hair removed or just thinned.
If you wanted the hair on your back completely removed and you where of average size, then the cost would be around four hundred dollars to have done. You may save half of the price of the procedure if you want to just trim it down. The price is a very good deal, because there is a good chance that you will only have to pay it once a year. The pain and frustration that laser hair removal for men will bring is worth it. It really just comes down to personal choice.
Article Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com
The Positive Impact Facial Fillers Have on Personal Appearance
IRVINE, Calif., March 16, 2010 -- Allergan, Inc. has announced the national launch of the Juvederm(R) "Switch Up" campaign, spearheaded by television personality Dayna Devon who will share ways to maintain a fresh appearance as women approach milestone birthdays. Devon, who turns 40 this month and is a mother of two young children, has developed an easy strategy for women to switch up their current routines and take advantage of effective medical aesthetic treatments including JUVEDERM(R) dermal filler, the number-one selling hyaluronic acid dermal filler in the United States.(1)
"I'm celebrating the 'big 4-0' this year so there's no better time than now to switch up my routine to help me look and feel like the best version of myself," said Dayna Devon. "As a mom, wife and TV host, I'm always on the go and have little time for myself but I still want to look my best. In my 30s, I began receiving treatment with a dermal filler when I noticed these deep lines starting to form around my nose and mouth that looked like two parentheses and couldn't be filled in with the creams I was using."
Devon continued, "When JUVEDERM(R) became available a few years ago, I switched because it has a smooth formulation and is the only dermal filler made of hyaluronic acid that is approved to last up to one year from initial treatment(2). Now a new formulation called JUVEDERM(R) XC includes lidocaine and is available, so I am even more excited about the treatment because I get the same smooth, natural-looking results with a more comfortable injection experience. Plus, I don't have to spend time waiting for the messy topical anesthetic to take effect."
Women who want to switch up their routines can become a "fan" of the official JUVEDERM(R) Facebook page to receive personal tips on how to maintain their best appearance from Dayna Devon every month. In addition to her experiences with JUVEDERM(R) treatment, Devon will also share tips on energizing fitness routines, making health a priority and expanding horizons with new hobbies to help women look and feel their best.
Derek Jones, M.D., renowned Los-Angeles based dermatologist, says milestone birthdays are the perfect time for patients to switch up their aesthetic routines. "Just like our bodies, skin changes as we age," said Dr. Jones. "One common complaint I hear from my patients in their 30s and 40s is the appearance of the pesky parentheses due to lost facial volume. To treat those lines, I have been recommending JUVEDERM(R) smooth-consistency dermal fillers for years and now JUVEDERM(R) XC with lidocaine offers my patients another reason to make the switch."
Robert Grant, president of Allergan Medical, a division of Allergan, Inc. said, "Our JuvEderm(R) 'Switch Up' campaign is a great way to educate women and men about hyaluronic acid dermal filler treatments and encourage them to have a dialogue with a licensed and trained aesthetic-specialty physician about clinically proven treatments that deliver on the promise to help treat wrinkles in the lower part of the face."
For more information about JUVEDERM(R) dermal fillers see http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=176
"I'm celebrating the 'big 4-0' this year so there's no better time than now to switch up my routine to help me look and feel like the best version of myself," said Dayna Devon. "As a mom, wife and TV host, I'm always on the go and have little time for myself but I still want to look my best. In my 30s, I began receiving treatment with a dermal filler when I noticed these deep lines starting to form around my nose and mouth that looked like two parentheses and couldn't be filled in with the creams I was using."
Devon continued, "When JUVEDERM(R) became available a few years ago, I switched because it has a smooth formulation and is the only dermal filler made of hyaluronic acid that is approved to last up to one year from initial treatment(2). Now a new formulation called JUVEDERM(R) XC includes lidocaine and is available, so I am even more excited about the treatment because I get the same smooth, natural-looking results with a more comfortable injection experience. Plus, I don't have to spend time waiting for the messy topical anesthetic to take effect."
Women who want to switch up their routines can become a "fan" of the official JUVEDERM(R) Facebook page to receive personal tips on how to maintain their best appearance from Dayna Devon every month. In addition to her experiences with JUVEDERM(R) treatment, Devon will also share tips on energizing fitness routines, making health a priority and expanding horizons with new hobbies to help women look and feel their best.
Derek Jones, M.D., renowned Los-Angeles based dermatologist, says milestone birthdays are the perfect time for patients to switch up their aesthetic routines. "Just like our bodies, skin changes as we age," said Dr. Jones. "One common complaint I hear from my patients in their 30s and 40s is the appearance of the pesky parentheses due to lost facial volume. To treat those lines, I have been recommending JUVEDERM(R) smooth-consistency dermal fillers for years and now JUVEDERM(R) XC with lidocaine offers my patients another reason to make the switch."
Robert Grant, president of Allergan Medical, a division of Allergan, Inc. said, "Our JuvEderm(R) 'Switch Up' campaign is a great way to educate women and men about hyaluronic acid dermal filler treatments and encourage them to have a dialogue with a licensed and trained aesthetic-specialty physician about clinically proven treatments that deliver on the promise to help treat wrinkles in the lower part of the face."
For more information about JUVEDERM(R) dermal fillers see http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=176
FDA Approves Botox to Treat Spasticity in Elbow, Wrist, Fingers
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration today approved Botox (onabotulinumtoxin A) to treat spasticity in the flexor muscles of the elbow, wrist, and fingers in adults. Spasticity is common after stroke, traumatic brain injury, or the progression of multiple sclerosis.
"Muscles affected by spasticity have increased stiffness and tightness, which may lead to pain, difficulties with hygiene and other activities of daily living, and may affect how a patient looks," said Russell Katz, M.D., director of the Division of Neurology Products in the FDA's Center for Drug Evaluation and Research. "In clinical trials, treatment with Botox was found to be beneficial to patients with upper limb spasticity."
Botox works by temporarily blocking the connections between nerves and muscles, resulting in a temporary paralysis of the spastic muscle.
Botox has a Boxed Warning that says the effects of the botulinum toxin may spread from the area of injection to other areas of the body, causing symptoms similar to those of botulism. Those symptoms include swallowing and breathing difficulties that can be life-threatening.
The most common adverse reactions reported by patients with upper limb spasticity were nausea, fatigue, bronchitis, muscle weakness, and pain in the arms.
Botox has not been shown to be safe and effective treatment for other upper limb muscles, spasticity in the legs, or for treatment of fixed contracture -- a condition that affects range of motion. Treatment with Botox is not intended to substitute for physical therapy or other rehabilitative care.
Botox is manufactured by Allergan Inc. of Irvine, Calif.
Media Inquiries: Sandy Walsh, 301-796-4669; sandy.walsh@fda.hhs.gov
Consumer Inquiries: 888-INFO-FDA
SOURCE U.S. Food and Drug Administration
"Muscles affected by spasticity have increased stiffness and tightness, which may lead to pain, difficulties with hygiene and other activities of daily living, and may affect how a patient looks," said Russell Katz, M.D., director of the Division of Neurology Products in the FDA's Center for Drug Evaluation and Research. "In clinical trials, treatment with Botox was found to be beneficial to patients with upper limb spasticity."
Botox works by temporarily blocking the connections between nerves and muscles, resulting in a temporary paralysis of the spastic muscle.
Botox has a Boxed Warning that says the effects of the botulinum toxin may spread from the area of injection to other areas of the body, causing symptoms similar to those of botulism. Those symptoms include swallowing and breathing difficulties that can be life-threatening.
The most common adverse reactions reported by patients with upper limb spasticity were nausea, fatigue, bronchitis, muscle weakness, and pain in the arms.
Botox has not been shown to be safe and effective treatment for other upper limb muscles, spasticity in the legs, or for treatment of fixed contracture -- a condition that affects range of motion. Treatment with Botox is not intended to substitute for physical therapy or other rehabilitative care.
Botox is manufactured by Allergan Inc. of Irvine, Calif.
Media Inquiries: Sandy Walsh, 301-796-4669; sandy.walsh@fda.hhs.gov
Consumer Inquiries: 888-INFO-FDA
SOURCE U.S. Food and Drug Administration
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