A More Advanced and Safer Choice in Liposuction Technology
Lipo-Vibe Custom Acoustic Liposuction is the newest and latest advancement in liposuction. Lipo-Vibe is an FDA approved, safe and effective way to eliminate unwanted stubborn areas of fat. Although new to the U.S., this technology has been successfully used in Europe for more than 12 years.
Unlike traditional liposuction that causes trauma to the surrounding tissue, the Lipo-Vibe gentle 3-D technology contours the body for dramatic results with little or no downtime -- and all under a local anesthetic. This state of the art procedure can be used on virtually any area of the body that is resistant to diet and exercise with fantastic results. As an added benefit, the energy used to break down fat also stimulates collagen and facilitates skin tightening.
To view Before and After photos and images of Lipo-Vibe Tickle Liposuction at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/article_info.php?articles_id=379
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Survey: Americans Would Rather Give Up Sex Than Gain Weight
FORT WASHINGTON, Pa., Aug. 12 -- In spite of facing the deepest recession since the Great Depression and record unemployment rates, many Americans would pass up a work promotion to drop 10 to 20 pounds, according to the new Nutrisystem Diet Index™ issued today by Nutrisystem, Inc.®, a leading provider of weight management programs and services. Americans would also rather give up sex than gain weight, and they'd toss their cell phones and give up watching TV to have a toned tummy, according to the new findings. The Nutrisystem Diet Index™ is a new series of national consumer surveys tracking America's diet behaviors, attitudes and trends throughout the year. Each survey has a scale that measures America's current diet and lifestyle behavior and choices.
"The fact of the matter is, America is obsessed with dieting and weight loss, but the majority of Americans aren't eating healthier or getting thinner," said Joe Redling, chairman and CEO of Nutrisystem, Inc. "We've developed the Nutrisystem Diet Index™ to better understand America's attitudes toward dieting and to start a dialogue about healthy dieting and healthy lifestyle habits and trends."
The first Nutrisystem Diet Index™ revealed that Americans place a high value on being healthy, but they abandon the idea of achieving a healthier weight and lifestyle, because they ultimately feel their goals are too difficult to attain and maintain. The American lifestyle is also a factor. Inconveniences of work, giving up favorite foods, not having the time to plan ahead, cooking for a larger family and the cost of healthy foods are cited as some of the biggest barriers.
The Nutrisystem Diet Index™ revealed that Americans are clearly showing signs of struggle. According to the Index, Americans are at the midway mark on healthy diet and lifestyle choices, scoring a 5.1 on a ten point scale – with one being an "unhealthy diet and lifestyle" and ten being a "healthy diet and lifestyle" – when asked basic questions about their eating habits, diet behaviors and lifestyle choices.
The Nutrisystem Diet Index™ showed:
Only 35 percent of Americans fall into the "healthy lifestyle" category on the Index, by making healthy food and portion choices and by exercising regularly.
30 percent of Americans fall into the "unhealthy lifestyle" category and have dieted an average of 20 times in their life, using five different diet plans
35 percent of Americans have dieted an average of six times in their life, using two different diet plans
Nearly 1/3 of Americans (29 percent) have tried dieting over the past eleven months, and more than half of Americans (51 percent) have dieted within the past two years
For information about Weight Loss programs at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/index.php?cPath=15
Additionally, nearly a third of Americans confess to being self-conscious about their bodies and the Nutrisystem Diet Index™ reveals insight into Americans' attitudes about their health, appearance and lifestyle during the height of swimsuit season.
Additional findings from the survey include:
A majority of Americans (66 percent) who say they need to lose weight to feel sexier than they currently do, think it will take an average of 23 pounds of weight loss for this to happen
More than half (52 percent) of American women would take a summer without sex over gaining 10 pounds; a quarter of American men (25 percent) said they would make the same sacrifice
More Americans would prefer to shed 10 to 20 pounds this summer (25 percent) than get promoted at work (20 percent)
Almost three out of four Americans (73 percent) are willing to give up television, their cell phones or their computers for a flat tummy this beach season
Nearly half (46 percent) of the country chose not to diet, even when they knew they needed to lose weight, because they didn't want to give up their favorite foods
Almost all dieters (93 percent) find at least one aspect of their dieting plan to be challenging; the majority said they aren't able to control cravings (71 percent) and find portion size an obstacle to their success (64 percent)
"The Nutrisystem Diet Index found that many Americans are willing to make extreme sacrifices to lose weight, but they eventually give up on their goals because they don't know how to reach them. While there is an endless amount of health information available, there are still misperceptions and confusion about becoming healthier," said Dr. Bruce Daggy, nutritional biochemist and vice president of research and development, Nutrisystem, Inc. "This research helps shed light on some of the root causes of our nation's struggle to achieve a healthy diet and lifestyle."
The Nutrisystem Diet Index™ analyzed healthy diet and lifestyle behaviors and attitudes based on a telephone survey conducted by Kelton Research on behalf of Nutrisystem, Inc. The phone survey took place between April 10 and April 21, 2010 among 1,001 adults age 18 and over.
For more information on the Nutrisystem Diet Index ™, visit nutrisystemnews.com. To share what you’d be willing to give up to lose weight, go to Facebook.com/Nutrisystem.
SOURCE Nutrisystem, Inc.
For information about Weight Loss programs at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/index.php?cPath=15
"The fact of the matter is, America is obsessed with dieting and weight loss, but the majority of Americans aren't eating healthier or getting thinner," said Joe Redling, chairman and CEO of Nutrisystem, Inc. "We've developed the Nutrisystem Diet Index™ to better understand America's attitudes toward dieting and to start a dialogue about healthy dieting and healthy lifestyle habits and trends."
The first Nutrisystem Diet Index™ revealed that Americans place a high value on being healthy, but they abandon the idea of achieving a healthier weight and lifestyle, because they ultimately feel their goals are too difficult to attain and maintain. The American lifestyle is also a factor. Inconveniences of work, giving up favorite foods, not having the time to plan ahead, cooking for a larger family and the cost of healthy foods are cited as some of the biggest barriers.
The Nutrisystem Diet Index™ revealed that Americans are clearly showing signs of struggle. According to the Index, Americans are at the midway mark on healthy diet and lifestyle choices, scoring a 5.1 on a ten point scale – with one being an "unhealthy diet and lifestyle" and ten being a "healthy diet and lifestyle" – when asked basic questions about their eating habits, diet behaviors and lifestyle choices.
The Nutrisystem Diet Index™ showed:
Only 35 percent of Americans fall into the "healthy lifestyle" category on the Index, by making healthy food and portion choices and by exercising regularly.
30 percent of Americans fall into the "unhealthy lifestyle" category and have dieted an average of 20 times in their life, using five different diet plans
35 percent of Americans have dieted an average of six times in their life, using two different diet plans
Nearly 1/3 of Americans (29 percent) have tried dieting over the past eleven months, and more than half of Americans (51 percent) have dieted within the past two years
For information about Weight Loss programs at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/index.php?cPath=15
Additionally, nearly a third of Americans confess to being self-conscious about their bodies and the Nutrisystem Diet Index™ reveals insight into Americans' attitudes about their health, appearance and lifestyle during the height of swimsuit season.
Additional findings from the survey include:
A majority of Americans (66 percent) who say they need to lose weight to feel sexier than they currently do, think it will take an average of 23 pounds of weight loss for this to happen
More than half (52 percent) of American women would take a summer without sex over gaining 10 pounds; a quarter of American men (25 percent) said they would make the same sacrifice
More Americans would prefer to shed 10 to 20 pounds this summer (25 percent) than get promoted at work (20 percent)
Almost three out of four Americans (73 percent) are willing to give up television, their cell phones or their computers for a flat tummy this beach season
Nearly half (46 percent) of the country chose not to diet, even when they knew they needed to lose weight, because they didn't want to give up their favorite foods
Almost all dieters (93 percent) find at least one aspect of their dieting plan to be challenging; the majority said they aren't able to control cravings (71 percent) and find portion size an obstacle to their success (64 percent)
"The Nutrisystem Diet Index found that many Americans are willing to make extreme sacrifices to lose weight, but they eventually give up on their goals because they don't know how to reach them. While there is an endless amount of health information available, there are still misperceptions and confusion about becoming healthier," said Dr. Bruce Daggy, nutritional biochemist and vice president of research and development, Nutrisystem, Inc. "This research helps shed light on some of the root causes of our nation's struggle to achieve a healthy diet and lifestyle."
The Nutrisystem Diet Index™ analyzed healthy diet and lifestyle behaviors and attitudes based on a telephone survey conducted by Kelton Research on behalf of Nutrisystem, Inc. The phone survey took place between April 10 and April 21, 2010 among 1,001 adults age 18 and over.
For more information on the Nutrisystem Diet Index ™, visit nutrisystemnews.com. To share what you’d be willing to give up to lose weight, go to Facebook.com/Nutrisystem.
SOURCE Nutrisystem, Inc.
For information about Weight Loss programs at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/index.php?cPath=15
Botox & Facial Fillers Most Popular Non-Surgical Cosmetic Treatments
NEW YORK, Aug. 9 -- The International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS) is a world leader in plastic surgery. After a year-long process, the Society has produced the "ISAPS Biennial Global Survey™" of plastic surgeons and procedures in the top 25 countries and regions – representing 75% of all procedures in 2009. The ISAPS Survey marks the first time reliable international plastic surgery data has been obtained and analyzed by independent statistical specialists.
For more information about Botox and Facial Fillers at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com
"This year marks the 40th anniversary of the founding of ISAPS," noted Foad Nahai, MD of the United States and current President of ISAPS. "The Society was founded at the United Nations by a group of concerned and proactive plastic surgeons. We could think of no better way of commemorating this important milestone than by commissioning and releasing this breakthrough Survey."
Geographic Trends
The ISAPS Global Survey revealed a new hierarchy of countries with the most surgical and non surgical cosmetic procedures. While the United States continues its dominance in the field, countries not always associated with plastic surgery are emerging as major centers.
Please note: fully detailed statistics are available for all categories mentioned in this release as well as complete methodology at: www.isaps.org
Most Popular Surgical and Non Surgical Procedures
For the last ten years, the consensus has been that breast augmentation was the most popular plastic surgery procedure. The ISAPS Global Survey reveals a new trend with liposuction representing 18.8% of all surgical procedures, followed by breast augmentation at 17%, and blepharoplasty (upper or lower eyelid lift) at 13.5%, rhinoplasty (nose reshaping) at 9.4% and abdominoplasty ("Tummy Tuck") at 7.3%.
The popularity of surgical procedures varied by country with Brazil, the United States, China, Mexico, India and Japan the dominant countries for the top five procedures.
Reflecting both advances in cosmetic surgery innovation and the desirability of less expensive treatments, the number of non surgical procedures performed by plastic surgeons actually topped surgical procedures. While there is no previous baseline of information against which to compare these figures, there can be no doubt that this is a dramatic turn of events.
The top five non surgical procedures are: toxins or neuromodulators injections (Botox, Dysport) (32.7%), hyaluronic acid injections (20.1%), laser hair removal (13.1%), autologous fat injections (taking a patient's fat from one location and transferring it in the same patient in another location) (5.9%) and IP Laser treatment (4.4%).
The countries where non surgical procedures were performed were dominated by the United States, Brazil, Mexico and China and to a lesser extent by Japan, Hungary, South Korea, India and Germany.
Grand Totals – Finally a Credible Baseline
The ISAPS Global Survey also establishes several important statistics with regard to the total number of board certified (or national equivalent) plastic surgeons practicing today; estimated to be 30,817. The total number of surgical procedures is projected to be 8,536,379 and the number of non surgical procedures is estimated at 8,759,187 – bringing the combined worldwide total of surgical and non surgical procedures performed by board certified plastic surgeons to: 17,295,557. (This figure does not take into account surgical and non surgical procedures performed by non plastic surgeons.)
Dr. Jan Poell of Switzerland, the incoming President of ISAPS, observed that, "The statistics revealed from the ISAPS Global Survey represent the first credible and reliable baseline of information in the field. This is valuable information that will be used by medical professionals and media as an indispensable tool for calculating developments within our specialty and general trends, long before governments or industry have amassed this data."
Methodology
"Calculating plastic surgery surgical and non surgical procedures throughout the world was a complex and challenging initiative," noted Dr. Sampaio Goes of Brazil, an ISAPS Past President and Chairman of the ISAPS Communication Committee which oversaw this Survey. "We chose a respected survey company with extensive experience in plastic surgery, and the results they produced are credible, scientifically significant and will influence the profession for years to come."
The ISAPS Biennial Global Survey was compiled, tabulated, and analyzed by Industry Insights, Inc. (www.industryinsights.com) an independent research firm based in Columbus, Ohio in the United States. The Survey leader was Scott Hackworth, a Certified Public Accountant who along with firm has conducted various forms of research on trends in Aesthetic Plastic Surgery for nearly 15 years.
Participants in the Survey completed a two-page, English-based questionnaire that focused on the number of surgical and non-surgical procedures they performed in 2009. ISAPS issued an invitation to participate in the study to approximately 20,000 Plastic Surgeons whose contact information is housed in ISAPS proprietary database. In addition, a request was made that all National Societies encourage their members to take part in the survey.
Final figures have been projected to reflect international statistics and are based exclusively on the estimated number of Plastic Surgeons in each country. To aid in tallying the world-wide number of plastic surgeons, representatives from National Societies provided the counts for over 75% of the 31,000 total estimated plastic surgeons.
Though the confidence intervals change by procedure and by country - depending on the sample size and response variance of each - the overall survey portion of this research holds a standard error of +/- 4.24% at a 95% level of confidence.
ISAPS 2010 Congress: This Survey is released to coincide with the 20th Biennial Congress of ISAPS to be held on August 14-18 in San Francisco, California, United States. For more information about the Congress or to obtain credentials and/or follow up information contact: credentials@conmx.net
SOURCE International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS)
For more information about Botox and Facial Fillers at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com
For more information about Botox and Facial Fillers at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com
"This year marks the 40th anniversary of the founding of ISAPS," noted Foad Nahai, MD of the United States and current President of ISAPS. "The Society was founded at the United Nations by a group of concerned and proactive plastic surgeons. We could think of no better way of commemorating this important milestone than by commissioning and releasing this breakthrough Survey."
Geographic Trends
The ISAPS Global Survey revealed a new hierarchy of countries with the most surgical and non surgical cosmetic procedures. While the United States continues its dominance in the field, countries not always associated with plastic surgery are emerging as major centers.
Please note: fully detailed statistics are available for all categories mentioned in this release as well as complete methodology at: www.isaps.org
Most Popular Surgical and Non Surgical Procedures
For the last ten years, the consensus has been that breast augmentation was the most popular plastic surgery procedure. The ISAPS Global Survey reveals a new trend with liposuction representing 18.8% of all surgical procedures, followed by breast augmentation at 17%, and blepharoplasty (upper or lower eyelid lift) at 13.5%, rhinoplasty (nose reshaping) at 9.4% and abdominoplasty ("Tummy Tuck") at 7.3%.
The popularity of surgical procedures varied by country with Brazil, the United States, China, Mexico, India and Japan the dominant countries for the top five procedures.
Reflecting both advances in cosmetic surgery innovation and the desirability of less expensive treatments, the number of non surgical procedures performed by plastic surgeons actually topped surgical procedures. While there is no previous baseline of information against which to compare these figures, there can be no doubt that this is a dramatic turn of events.
The top five non surgical procedures are: toxins or neuromodulators injections (Botox, Dysport) (32.7%), hyaluronic acid injections (20.1%), laser hair removal (13.1%), autologous fat injections (taking a patient's fat from one location and transferring it in the same patient in another location) (5.9%) and IP Laser treatment (4.4%).
The countries where non surgical procedures were performed were dominated by the United States, Brazil, Mexico and China and to a lesser extent by Japan, Hungary, South Korea, India and Germany.
Grand Totals – Finally a Credible Baseline
The ISAPS Global Survey also establishes several important statistics with regard to the total number of board certified (or national equivalent) plastic surgeons practicing today; estimated to be 30,817. The total number of surgical procedures is projected to be 8,536,379 and the number of non surgical procedures is estimated at 8,759,187 – bringing the combined worldwide total of surgical and non surgical procedures performed by board certified plastic surgeons to: 17,295,557. (This figure does not take into account surgical and non surgical procedures performed by non plastic surgeons.)
Dr. Jan Poell of Switzerland, the incoming President of ISAPS, observed that, "The statistics revealed from the ISAPS Global Survey represent the first credible and reliable baseline of information in the field. This is valuable information that will be used by medical professionals and media as an indispensable tool for calculating developments within our specialty and general trends, long before governments or industry have amassed this data."
Methodology
"Calculating plastic surgery surgical and non surgical procedures throughout the world was a complex and challenging initiative," noted Dr. Sampaio Goes of Brazil, an ISAPS Past President and Chairman of the ISAPS Communication Committee which oversaw this Survey. "We chose a respected survey company with extensive experience in plastic surgery, and the results they produced are credible, scientifically significant and will influence the profession for years to come."
The ISAPS Biennial Global Survey was compiled, tabulated, and analyzed by Industry Insights, Inc. (www.industryinsights.com) an independent research firm based in Columbus, Ohio in the United States. The Survey leader was Scott Hackworth, a Certified Public Accountant who along with firm has conducted various forms of research on trends in Aesthetic Plastic Surgery for nearly 15 years.
Participants in the Survey completed a two-page, English-based questionnaire that focused on the number of surgical and non-surgical procedures they performed in 2009. ISAPS issued an invitation to participate in the study to approximately 20,000 Plastic Surgeons whose contact information is housed in ISAPS proprietary database. In addition, a request was made that all National Societies encourage their members to take part in the survey.
Final figures have been projected to reflect international statistics and are based exclusively on the estimated number of Plastic Surgeons in each country. To aid in tallying the world-wide number of plastic surgeons, representatives from National Societies provided the counts for over 75% of the 31,000 total estimated plastic surgeons.
Though the confidence intervals change by procedure and by country - depending on the sample size and response variance of each - the overall survey portion of this research holds a standard error of +/- 4.24% at a 95% level of confidence.
ISAPS 2010 Congress: This Survey is released to coincide with the 20th Biennial Congress of ISAPS to be held on August 14-18 in San Francisco, California, United States. For more information about the Congress or to obtain credentials and/or follow up information contact: credentials@conmx.net
SOURCE International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS)
For more information about Botox and Facial Fillers at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com
The Two Most Common Skin Conditions in Asians: Acne and Malasma
CHICAGO, Aug. 5 -- The U.S. Census Bureau predicts that the Asian-American population will total 40 million people by 2050. While as a whole this group is characterized by very dark hair and dark eyes, there is much diversity in Asian skin tones – from very light, pale skin to light or dark brown skin. One common thread is the pigmentation issues that Asian Americans often face as after-effects of other dermatologic problems that can be as troublesome as the original condition itself.
For more information about Acne Treatments at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=177
At the American Academy of Dermatology's Summer Academy Meeting 2010 in Chicago, dermatologist Roopal V. Kundu, MD, FAAD, assistant professor and director of the Center for Ethnic Skin in the department of dermatology at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine in Chicago, discussed two of the most common skin conditions in Asians and how treatment also involves addressing the ensuing pigmentation problems.
"The standards of beauty for Asian skin differ by region, but smooth skin and a flawless complexion are highly desired for most Asians," said Dr. Kundu. "That is why treating the initial concern as well as any pigmentation problems that may occur as the result of the treatment are so important."
Clearing Acne Step by Step
Acne is one of the most common skin conditions that affects Asians, and Dr. Kundu explained that this population tends to experience inflammatory acne. By its very nature, Asian skin has an increased amount of melanin (the pigment in skin), and the cells that make melanin tend to be more sensitive to any type of inflammation or injury. Because Asian skin becomes more inflamed with deeper acne pustules and papules, patients are often left with post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), which refers to increased pigmentation or dark spots at the sites of inflammation.
"In my practice, Asian acne patients often are much more concerned with the after-effects of acne and how their skin may be affected by the resulting discoloration or scarring rather than the acne itself," said Dr. Kundu. "However, the first goal of any successful treatment regimen is to control the acne with topical and/or systemic medications depending on the severity of the acne."
In conjunction with medications she prescribes to clear acne, Dr. Kundu also recommends medications or over-the-counter products to even out the tone of Asian skin – which can help reduce the incidence of PIH. One such product that Dr. Kundu finds very effective in protecting Asian skin from uneven skin tone is sunscreen.
"Many of my Asian patients do not realize how important regular sun protection is to prevent the signs of aging skin, including preserving skin tone and helping minimize pigmentation problems from acne," said Dr. Kundu. "Minimizing intense sun exposure, wearing sun protective clothing and wide-brimmed hats, along with applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF 30 is a must for treating Asian skin for this reason."
Another important component of treating acne in this population is exfoliation. Dr. Kundu often recommends glycolic acid, salicylic acid or topical retinoids to her patients to remove the surface skin cells and improve both acne and hyperpigmentation. Once acne is under control, the second goal is to address the resulting pigmentation problems. Dr. Kundu typically recommends bleaching agents, such as hydroquinone (considered the gold standard for bleaching), as well as chemical peels and cosmeceuticals. However, she cautioned that patients should be careful about where they purchase bleaching creams. Some establishments have been cited for selling products that contain too high levels of hydroquinone and even tested positive for toxic levels of mercury.
"It is very important for all patients to talk to their dermatologist before trying any at-home treatments designed to improve their skin tone, as some products can do more harm than good," advised Dr. Kundu. "Your dermatologist can recommend proven therapies and preventive care to keep your skin healthy and looking its best, even when you are experiencing a skin condition like acne."
Unmasking the Mystery of Melasma
Another common skin condition in Asians that can impact the appearance of the skin is melasma. Often referred to as the "mask of pregnancy," melasma is characterized by brown patches commonly on the cheeks, upper lip, nose and forehead. While the exact cause of melasma is unknown, it is thought to result from a combination of genetic and hormonal factors, as well as UV exposure. Dr. Kundu reported that melasma is more common in women and in Hispanics and Asians.
Treatments for melasma include similar therapies used to treat pigmentation problems resulting from acne, such as bleaching agents, hydroquinone, topical retinoids and chemical peels. In addition, certain laser and light therapies have been shown to be safe and effective in Asians.
Dr. Kundu reported that fractionated lasers and intense-pulsed light (IPL) therapies can be performed safely in Asians, but cautioned that these procedures need to be administered carefully by dermatologists.
"In some cases, laser and light procedures can worsen melasma if they destroy pigment cells – which leave white spots in the treated areas," said Dr. Kundu. "But they can be safe and effective in treating melasma, so patients need to discuss these procedures with their dermatologist to make sure they are good candidates first."
As is recommended in treating acne in Asian patients, Dr. Kundu added that avoiding the sun and using sunscreen daily are essential in the treatment of melasma and also in limiting potential side effects of laser and light treatments.
For information on Melasma treatments at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=242
Cultural Practices Can Spell Trouble for the Skin
Many of the deep-rooted cultural practices in Asian populations are still evident today, and Dr. Kundu noted that some can pose skin problems that need to be addressed by a dermatologist.
For example, cupping and moxibustion are two ancient healing techniques that complement acupuncture therapy by the use of heat to stimulate circulation. However, Dr. Kundu reported that people who regularly practice cupping and moxibustion can get bruising or scarring that sometimes require dermatologic care to minimize PIH. Similarly, the practice of coin rubbing – which involves using oils on the skin and repetitive rubbing of coins firmly over the area to promote healing – can create deep abrasions and bruising that may need medical attention.
Another common cultural practice among certain Asian cultures is the application of black henna tattoos. These popular tattoos could contain high concentrations of a chemical known as para-phenylenediamine, or PPD, used to create longer-lasting black henna tattoos. However, Dr. Kundu explained that PPD is an allergen that could cause allergic contact dermatitis, with symptoms ranging from mild eczema to blistering and scarring.
"While people of Asian descent may be more prone to pigmentation problems resulting from dermatologic conditions or from cultural practices, there are many ways that dermatologists can help patients maintain good skin health and minimize potential skin problems," said Dr. Kundu
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.
SOURCE American Academy of Dermatology
For more information about Acne Treatments at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=177
For more information about Acne Treatments at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=177
At the American Academy of Dermatology's Summer Academy Meeting 2010 in Chicago, dermatologist Roopal V. Kundu, MD, FAAD, assistant professor and director of the Center for Ethnic Skin in the department of dermatology at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine in Chicago, discussed two of the most common skin conditions in Asians and how treatment also involves addressing the ensuing pigmentation problems.
"The standards of beauty for Asian skin differ by region, but smooth skin and a flawless complexion are highly desired for most Asians," said Dr. Kundu. "That is why treating the initial concern as well as any pigmentation problems that may occur as the result of the treatment are so important."
Clearing Acne Step by Step
Acne is one of the most common skin conditions that affects Asians, and Dr. Kundu explained that this population tends to experience inflammatory acne. By its very nature, Asian skin has an increased amount of melanin (the pigment in skin), and the cells that make melanin tend to be more sensitive to any type of inflammation or injury. Because Asian skin becomes more inflamed with deeper acne pustules and papules, patients are often left with post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), which refers to increased pigmentation or dark spots at the sites of inflammation.
"In my practice, Asian acne patients often are much more concerned with the after-effects of acne and how their skin may be affected by the resulting discoloration or scarring rather than the acne itself," said Dr. Kundu. "However, the first goal of any successful treatment regimen is to control the acne with topical and/or systemic medications depending on the severity of the acne."
In conjunction with medications she prescribes to clear acne, Dr. Kundu also recommends medications or over-the-counter products to even out the tone of Asian skin – which can help reduce the incidence of PIH. One such product that Dr. Kundu finds very effective in protecting Asian skin from uneven skin tone is sunscreen.
"Many of my Asian patients do not realize how important regular sun protection is to prevent the signs of aging skin, including preserving skin tone and helping minimize pigmentation problems from acne," said Dr. Kundu. "Minimizing intense sun exposure, wearing sun protective clothing and wide-brimmed hats, along with applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF 30 is a must for treating Asian skin for this reason."
Another important component of treating acne in this population is exfoliation. Dr. Kundu often recommends glycolic acid, salicylic acid or topical retinoids to her patients to remove the surface skin cells and improve both acne and hyperpigmentation. Once acne is under control, the second goal is to address the resulting pigmentation problems. Dr. Kundu typically recommends bleaching agents, such as hydroquinone (considered the gold standard for bleaching), as well as chemical peels and cosmeceuticals. However, she cautioned that patients should be careful about where they purchase bleaching creams. Some establishments have been cited for selling products that contain too high levels of hydroquinone and even tested positive for toxic levels of mercury.
"It is very important for all patients to talk to their dermatologist before trying any at-home treatments designed to improve their skin tone, as some products can do more harm than good," advised Dr. Kundu. "Your dermatologist can recommend proven therapies and preventive care to keep your skin healthy and looking its best, even when you are experiencing a skin condition like acne."
Unmasking the Mystery of Melasma
Another common skin condition in Asians that can impact the appearance of the skin is melasma. Often referred to as the "mask of pregnancy," melasma is characterized by brown patches commonly on the cheeks, upper lip, nose and forehead. While the exact cause of melasma is unknown, it is thought to result from a combination of genetic and hormonal factors, as well as UV exposure. Dr. Kundu reported that melasma is more common in women and in Hispanics and Asians.
Treatments for melasma include similar therapies used to treat pigmentation problems resulting from acne, such as bleaching agents, hydroquinone, topical retinoids and chemical peels. In addition, certain laser and light therapies have been shown to be safe and effective in Asians.
Dr. Kundu reported that fractionated lasers and intense-pulsed light (IPL) therapies can be performed safely in Asians, but cautioned that these procedures need to be administered carefully by dermatologists.
"In some cases, laser and light procedures can worsen melasma if they destroy pigment cells – which leave white spots in the treated areas," said Dr. Kundu. "But they can be safe and effective in treating melasma, so patients need to discuss these procedures with their dermatologist to make sure they are good candidates first."
As is recommended in treating acne in Asian patients, Dr. Kundu added that avoiding the sun and using sunscreen daily are essential in the treatment of melasma and also in limiting potential side effects of laser and light treatments.
For information on Melasma treatments at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=242
Cultural Practices Can Spell Trouble for the Skin
Many of the deep-rooted cultural practices in Asian populations are still evident today, and Dr. Kundu noted that some can pose skin problems that need to be addressed by a dermatologist.
For example, cupping and moxibustion are two ancient healing techniques that complement acupuncture therapy by the use of heat to stimulate circulation. However, Dr. Kundu reported that people who regularly practice cupping and moxibustion can get bruising or scarring that sometimes require dermatologic care to minimize PIH. Similarly, the practice of coin rubbing – which involves using oils on the skin and repetitive rubbing of coins firmly over the area to promote healing – can create deep abrasions and bruising that may need medical attention.
Another common cultural practice among certain Asian cultures is the application of black henna tattoos. These popular tattoos could contain high concentrations of a chemical known as para-phenylenediamine, or PPD, used to create longer-lasting black henna tattoos. However, Dr. Kundu explained that PPD is an allergen that could cause allergic contact dermatitis, with symptoms ranging from mild eczema to blistering and scarring.
"While people of Asian descent may be more prone to pigmentation problems resulting from dermatologic conditions or from cultural practices, there are many ways that dermatologists can help patients maintain good skin health and minimize potential skin problems," said Dr. Kundu
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.
SOURCE American Academy of Dermatology
For more information about Acne Treatments at Derma Health Institute, go to:
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Survey: Life with Food Allergies and Sensitivities
NEW YORK, July 21 -- Food Content Alerts (http://www.foodcontentalerts.com), the world's first interactive food management tool, announced the results of the global survey "Life with Food Allergies and Sensitivities." More than 1,000 survey respondents from anglophone countries U.S., U.K., Canada, New Zealand, and Australia opted into the survey online. The only qualification for participation was that they or someone in their household suffer from a food allergy or sensitivity.
For more information about Food Allergies Sensitivity Testing at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?cPath=2&products_id=239
Food allergies and sensitivities are a serious and growing problem in developed countries. Experts estimate that as many as 60 million people in the U.S. are affected, either with a personal condition or through a family member, and that this number is increasing every year. The FCA site was launched last October following extensive research and development, and already has considerable Web traffic, users, and social media presence.
"With a critical mass of members and visitors to the site, we thought it was time to learn more about the people who use our tool. As one of the principles of FCA is sharing knowledge, our intention was to share the findings and, in doing so, raise awareness of this important issue," said Rich Muhlstock, the founder and manager of the site, which was created by TAXI NYC. "Even with all the information available on the Internet, we found that most respondents did not have a single Web destination to search for safe foods."
The results also showed that food allergies and sensitivities often affect more than one person in a household, with 45% of respondents having two or more allergy sufferers in a single household, while 20% have three or more sufferers. The survey confirmed that the condition has a huge emotional and logistical impact on family life. Sixty-six percent of respondents claimed that life with food sensitivities was difficult, compared with only 10% that found it easy to deal with.
The range of allergens and sensitivities mentioned by respondents was very surprising, according to Caroline Krediet, Planning Director, TAXI NYC. "While we saw large groups suffering from lactose and gluten allergies, 40% of respondents claimed sensitivity to foods not on the typical list of the most common allergies. This indicates that as the number of sufferers grows, so too does the list of food agents that affect them. We were surprised to see beef and corn as allergens mentioned by several hundred respondents."
Feedback on shopping behaviors was also interesting, with 87% of respondents relying on memory alone to select safe foods. "Surely this must be limiting to the repertoire of foods they can include in their diet. We hope this is something FCA can help address," says Muhlstock. Only a small minority of respondents believed that food companies did a good job labeling their foods. Sixty percent saw their current practices as inadequate.
Some bright spots for retailers and brands: Whole Foods was the clear winner in terms of favorite stores for allergy-free foods, with Trader Joe's not far behind. In terms of top "safe food" brands purchased by respondents, Bob's Red Mill, Enjoy Life, and Amy's were each mentioned by 10% of respondents. In the top 20 most frequently mentioned brands, General Mills led the pack, followed by Kraft and Kellogg's.
The survey was fielded from June 1-21, 2010. Respondents were 89% female, with 69% falling between the ages of 25 and 49. More information and detailed results are available at http://www.foodcontentalerts.com.
About FoodContentAlerts.com
FoodContentAlerts.com is a free online and mobile application that helps consumers with food sensitivities to manage their personal data. The site lets users organize a world of fragmented information via the creation of a personal sensitivity profile, which allows users to search for recipes, build personalized shopping lists, and more. FoodContentAlerts.com can also be accessed on the go via a mobile application. The site and app will revolutionize the way consumers navigate the world of food sensitivities and provide a unique targeted environment for advertisers. TAXI, New York (http://www.taxi-nyc.com), conceived of and developed the site. The site was built in partnership with Stem Limited (http://www.stemlimited.com).
For more information about Food Allergies Sensitivity Testing at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?cPath=2&products_id=239
For more information about Food Allergies Sensitivity Testing at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?cPath=2&products_id=239
Food allergies and sensitivities are a serious and growing problem in developed countries. Experts estimate that as many as 60 million people in the U.S. are affected, either with a personal condition or through a family member, and that this number is increasing every year. The FCA site was launched last October following extensive research and development, and already has considerable Web traffic, users, and social media presence.
"With a critical mass of members and visitors to the site, we thought it was time to learn more about the people who use our tool. As one of the principles of FCA is sharing knowledge, our intention was to share the findings and, in doing so, raise awareness of this important issue," said Rich Muhlstock, the founder and manager of the site, which was created by TAXI NYC. "Even with all the information available on the Internet, we found that most respondents did not have a single Web destination to search for safe foods."
The results also showed that food allergies and sensitivities often affect more than one person in a household, with 45% of respondents having two or more allergy sufferers in a single household, while 20% have three or more sufferers. The survey confirmed that the condition has a huge emotional and logistical impact on family life. Sixty-six percent of respondents claimed that life with food sensitivities was difficult, compared with only 10% that found it easy to deal with.
The range of allergens and sensitivities mentioned by respondents was very surprising, according to Caroline Krediet, Planning Director, TAXI NYC. "While we saw large groups suffering from lactose and gluten allergies, 40% of respondents claimed sensitivity to foods not on the typical list of the most common allergies. This indicates that as the number of sufferers grows, so too does the list of food agents that affect them. We were surprised to see beef and corn as allergens mentioned by several hundred respondents."
Feedback on shopping behaviors was also interesting, with 87% of respondents relying on memory alone to select safe foods. "Surely this must be limiting to the repertoire of foods they can include in their diet. We hope this is something FCA can help address," says Muhlstock. Only a small minority of respondents believed that food companies did a good job labeling their foods. Sixty percent saw their current practices as inadequate.
Some bright spots for retailers and brands: Whole Foods was the clear winner in terms of favorite stores for allergy-free foods, with Trader Joe's not far behind. In terms of top "safe food" brands purchased by respondents, Bob's Red Mill, Enjoy Life, and Amy's were each mentioned by 10% of respondents. In the top 20 most frequently mentioned brands, General Mills led the pack, followed by Kraft and Kellogg's.
The survey was fielded from June 1-21, 2010. Respondents were 89% female, with 69% falling between the ages of 25 and 49. More information and detailed results are available at http://www.foodcontentalerts.com.
About FoodContentAlerts.com
FoodContentAlerts.com is a free online and mobile application that helps consumers with food sensitivities to manage their personal data. The site lets users organize a world of fragmented information via the creation of a personal sensitivity profile, which allows users to search for recipes, build personalized shopping lists, and more. FoodContentAlerts.com can also be accessed on the go via a mobile application. The site and app will revolutionize the way consumers navigate the world of food sensitivities and provide a unique targeted environment for advertisers. TAXI, New York (http://www.taxi-nyc.com), conceived of and developed the site. The site was built in partnership with Stem Limited (http://www.stemlimited.com).
For more information about Food Allergies Sensitivity Testing at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?cPath=2&products_id=239
Popularity of Cosmetic Surgery Growing Among Minorities
CHICAGO, July 26 -- In a survey released today by the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery, more than half of respondents said they think the popularity of cosmetic surgery has grown among members of their racial/ethnic group in the last five years.
For more information about Cosmetic Procedures at Derma Health Institute, go to:
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Among racial/ethnic groups, Asians reported that cosmetic surgery is most popular (31.4 percent of respondents). They were followed by Hispanics (27.4 percent) and African Americans (18.8 percent) in cosmetic surgery popularity. About one quarter of respondents surveyed indicated they knew someone of the same racial/ethnic background who has gotten cosmetic surgery.
"Cosmetic surgery is en vogue no matter who you are," said Mark Berman, MD, President of the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery. "Feeling better about yourself and making improvements to your looks is thankfully not limited to a specific race or culture."
For invasive cosmetic surgery procedures, the most common surgery for Asian respondents is a facelift. Among black respondents, the top procedure is liposuction. And for Hispanic respondents, the most popular procedure is abdominoplasty (tummy tuck).
More than 30 percent of respondents said they would seek out a cosmetic surgeon of the same race/ethnicity as themselves. And over half of respondents (56.6 percent) said it would be difficult to find a surgeon of the same race/ethnicity as themselves.
The American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery is a professional medical society whose members are dedicated to patient safety and physician education in cosmetic surgery. Most members of the AACS are dermatologic surgeons, facial plastic surgeons, head and neck surgeons, general surgeons, oral and maxillofacial surgeons, plastic surgeons – all of whom specialize in cosmetic surgery. AACS is an organization that represents all cosmetic surgeons in the American Medical Association through its seat in the AMA House of Delegates.
SOURCE American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery
For more information about Cosmetic Procedures at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=175
For more information about Cosmetic Procedures at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=175
Among racial/ethnic groups, Asians reported that cosmetic surgery is most popular (31.4 percent of respondents). They were followed by Hispanics (27.4 percent) and African Americans (18.8 percent) in cosmetic surgery popularity. About one quarter of respondents surveyed indicated they knew someone of the same racial/ethnic background who has gotten cosmetic surgery.
"Cosmetic surgery is en vogue no matter who you are," said Mark Berman, MD, President of the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery. "Feeling better about yourself and making improvements to your looks is thankfully not limited to a specific race or culture."
For invasive cosmetic surgery procedures, the most common surgery for Asian respondents is a facelift. Among black respondents, the top procedure is liposuction. And for Hispanic respondents, the most popular procedure is abdominoplasty (tummy tuck).
More than 30 percent of respondents said they would seek out a cosmetic surgeon of the same race/ethnicity as themselves. And over half of respondents (56.6 percent) said it would be difficult to find a surgeon of the same race/ethnicity as themselves.
The American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery is a professional medical society whose members are dedicated to patient safety and physician education in cosmetic surgery. Most members of the AACS are dermatologic surgeons, facial plastic surgeons, head and neck surgeons, general surgeons, oral and maxillofacial surgeons, plastic surgeons – all of whom specialize in cosmetic surgery. AACS is an organization that represents all cosmetic surgeons in the American Medical Association through its seat in the AMA House of Delegates.
SOURCE American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery
For more information about Cosmetic Procedures at Derma Health Institute, go to:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=175
Think Before You Ink: Poll Shows Opposite Sex Prefers No Tattoos
While Angelina Jolie may boast yet another tattoo, a new survey shows 47 percent of men find tattoos on women to be a turn off. The same Ask Jeeves survey also reveals as many as 38 percent of women feel the same way about men with tattoos. The FDA estimates that 45 million Americans have at least one tattoo and an estimated 50 percent of individuals with tattoos, eventually grow dissatisfied and want them removed.
Already have a tattoo? For information about Tattoo Removal at Derma Health Institute, see:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=179
Nearly a third of young adults now sport at least one tattoo, but more than one in four of them regret having it done, according to new research.
A fifth (20 per cent) of all adults have a permanent tattoo, but this rises to a staggering 29 per cent of both men and women aged 16-44 years-old, the research revealed.
But while the marking does not fade, the enthusiasm clearly does, as 23 per cent admit it is something they now regret, said the survey based on questions answered by the question and answer website Ask Jeeves.
It includes many users asking about laser and other removal techniques - Ask Jeeves said it was one of the most popular subjects for questions in recent years.
Tattoos are becoming increasingly trendy and 86 per cent agree they are becoming more commonplace, though not everyone approves.
One in three people (34 per cent) say tattoos look awful and 21 per cent think it is okay to have a tattoo as long as it is not on display.
Only nine per cent of those aged 60 and over have one, but 16 per cent of those aged 30-44 have at least two, the survey of 1,000 adults shows.
Celtic motifs or someone's name are seen as the most popular these days, said the Ask Jeeves research.
Attitudes vary among age groups, though not by as much as some may think. Asked about David Beckham's so-called tattoo 'sleeves' covering his arms, 93 per cent of the over-60s think he's gone too far, and so too do 74 per cent of the under-30s.
Almost half of all men - 47 per cent - think tattoos on a woman are a turn off but only 38 per cent of women think the same about the markings on a male body.
While inked-up celebrities from Cheryl Tweedy to Amy Winehouse have helped increase the popularity of tattoos, there seem to be good and bad role models.
According to the Ask Jeeves survey, 55 per cent of all adults think Amy Winehouse looks worse for her collection of tattoos but only 17 per cent think it detracts from Megan Fox.
Nadia Kelly of Ask Jeeves said: "We have noticed an increasing number of our users asking Jeeves about tattoo removal services and asking about the various ways to get rid of them.
"Tattoos are obviously more popular than ever and we get enquiries about the latest designs or to look at those sported by celebrities.
"But it does suggest that this is one of the things that seems like a great idea at first but which many come to regret when they grow older."
Already have a tattoo? For information about Tattoo Removal at Derma Health Institute, see:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=179
Already have a tattoo? For information about Tattoo Removal at Derma Health Institute, see:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=179
Nearly a third of young adults now sport at least one tattoo, but more than one in four of them regret having it done, according to new research.
A fifth (20 per cent) of all adults have a permanent tattoo, but this rises to a staggering 29 per cent of both men and women aged 16-44 years-old, the research revealed.
But while the marking does not fade, the enthusiasm clearly does, as 23 per cent admit it is something they now regret, said the survey based on questions answered by the question and answer website Ask Jeeves.
It includes many users asking about laser and other removal techniques - Ask Jeeves said it was one of the most popular subjects for questions in recent years.
Tattoos are becoming increasingly trendy and 86 per cent agree they are becoming more commonplace, though not everyone approves.
One in three people (34 per cent) say tattoos look awful and 21 per cent think it is okay to have a tattoo as long as it is not on display.
Only nine per cent of those aged 60 and over have one, but 16 per cent of those aged 30-44 have at least two, the survey of 1,000 adults shows.
Celtic motifs or someone's name are seen as the most popular these days, said the Ask Jeeves research.
Attitudes vary among age groups, though not by as much as some may think. Asked about David Beckham's so-called tattoo 'sleeves' covering his arms, 93 per cent of the over-60s think he's gone too far, and so too do 74 per cent of the under-30s.
Almost half of all men - 47 per cent - think tattoos on a woman are a turn off but only 38 per cent of women think the same about the markings on a male body.
While inked-up celebrities from Cheryl Tweedy to Amy Winehouse have helped increase the popularity of tattoos, there seem to be good and bad role models.
According to the Ask Jeeves survey, 55 per cent of all adults think Amy Winehouse looks worse for her collection of tattoos but only 17 per cent think it detracts from Megan Fox.
Nadia Kelly of Ask Jeeves said: "We have noticed an increasing number of our users asking Jeeves about tattoo removal services and asking about the various ways to get rid of them.
"Tattoos are obviously more popular than ever and we get enquiries about the latest designs or to look at those sported by celebrities.
"But it does suggest that this is one of the things that seems like a great idea at first but which many come to regret when they grow older."
Already have a tattoo? For information about Tattoo Removal at Derma Health Institute, see:
http://www.dermahealthinstitute.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=179
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