Your Kids & Sun Exposure

Did you know that just a few serious sunburns could greatly increse your children's risk of developing skin cancer when they're older?

Kids love playing outdoors, but the extra sun exposure is harmful to their skin. It's important that children cover up, wear a hat and sunglasses, and apply sunscreen, sunscreen, sunscreen!

Be sure to put sunscreen on ears, noses, lips and the tops of feet, and take sunscreen with you to reapply throughout the day, especially after swimming or exercise.

It only takes 15 minutes for unprotected skin to be damaged by sun exposure. Pink sunburn and tan skin both indicate sun damage to your skin.

Infants are even more affected by the sun and should avoid sun exposure at all costs.

If your teen is going to the tanning bed, talk to them! The AAD, the World Health Organization and others fully support legislation that prohibits minors from accessing tanning salons or other artificial tanning devices.

The best thing you can do for your children is educate them about the dangers of sun exposure! Sun protection practices wane around the age of 9 or 10, so talk with your kids about the importance of protecting their skin.

For questions or to schedule an appointment to discuss sun exposure, call (864) 242-5872.

AAD publishes latest Psoriasis guidelines

The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recently published its newest edition of Psoriasis guidelines that examines the use of a variety of treatments for psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis patients.

The guidelines stress the importance of treatment plans that are tailored to the individual patient because there are many factors that can affect treatment, from the severity of the disease to the overall health of the patient.

Nearly 7 million Americans have psoriasis, a chronic skin condition characterized by red, scaly patches of skin that itch and sometimes bleed. Psoriasis is widely known for affecting the skin and joints, however new research suggests that psoriasis patients are at an increased risk of developing serious medical conditions such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, lymphoma and obesity.

The newest guidelines emphasize to dermatologists the importance of regular health screenings and continual monitoring of their psoriasis patients, and also discuss the key role that patients play in improving their outcomes.

The AAD encourages patients to not deviate from their treatment plans and keep their dermatologists informed of any concerns. Additionally, psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis patients should avoid common triggers such as increased stress, smoking and consuming alcohol.

If patients notice changes in their condition or experience signs of associated medical conditions, they should consult their dermatologist immediately.

Call (864) 242-5872 today should you have any concerns or would like to schedule an appointment.

To access the guidelines, click here.

Probiotics- The Super Bacteria!

Probiotics are becoming increasingly popular for their ability to alleviate digestion problems such as irregularity, diarrhea, IBS and lactose intolerance. However, probiotics don’t just provide benefits internally. Dermatologists are learning the incredible benefits that probiotics offer your skin.

One main cause of acne is an overgrowth of bacteria on the skin’s surface. Probiotics taken orally help treat acne-prone skin by regulating bacteria in the stomach. They can also be applied topically to protect against harmful bacteria and restore skin’s protective barrier and normal bacterial flora to help prevent breakouts.

Not only do probiotics help combat acne but they also improve eczema by creating good bacteria that release oxygen so skin breathes easier, blood flows and skin balance is restored.

These powerful bacterial microorganisms even aid in the fight against premature aging. Sun, smoke and pollutants all speed up aging by destroying the skin’s protective barrier and increasing skin’s elasticity that eventually causes wrinkles. Probiotics work to balance skin’s moisture, boost cell function and regenerate skin cells so skin becomes softer and smoother.

Taken daily, probiotics will boost the effectiveness of the skin products you already use. Other daily supplements typically take weeks or even months to show results.

Probiotics are a great addition to your daily routine that will have you feeling and looking better, inside and out!