Protect Your Skin from Air Pollution

With the arrival of colder weather, it is important to remember that UV exposure is not the only danger your skin faces. Outdoor and indoor air pollution is a constant threat and can cause a variety of issues, including premature aging, dryness, skin rashes, eczema and acne. It is helpful to know how air pollution can harm your skin to better understand ways to prevent this damage.

Recent research is causing doctors and scientists to agree that next to UV rays, pollution is one of the main sources of skin damage. As our outer layer, skin is our first defense against the increasing free radicals in the atmosphere. During repeated exposure to air pollution, proteins and lipids in our skin barrier are broken down by the gases in the atmosphere. This can lead to the breakdown of collagen, and over time, will lead to serious damage.

Outdoor pollution comes in many forms, including ground-level ozone, which is a gas created from the toxic emissions from cars and factories combined with sunlight. Dirt particles from smog and gas can also affect the surface of the skin, increasing inflammation and causing premature aging.

Indoor air pollution can be caused by a number of things as well, and while not entirely unavoidable, we should be aware of them. Particles from pressed wood products and foam insulation can cause dry skin, irritation and rashes. Second-hand cigarette smoke can also negatively affect skin condition.

While densely populated urban areas and areas with high levels of manufacturing are at a greater risk for air pollution damage, poor air quality can affect all types of communities. Therefore, it is smart to take preventative steps to reduce the damage caused by pollution. Large beauty and pharmaceutical companies such as Estee Lauder are taking note of this and are also offering more products to counteract this damage.

·         Antioxidants: These helpful substances that can fight free radicals can be applied topically (in a serum) or eaten in foods like brightly colored fruits and vegetables, including tomatoes, carrots, bell peppers, leafy greens and blueberries.

·         Plan ahead: If poor air quality conditions are forecast, try to wear long sleeved shirts.

·         Clean regularly: Use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter and vacuum regularly to clean dust particles. Keep air filters clean.

·         Stay hydrated: Moisturizers will help keep your skin strong against the pollution particles.

·         Healthy routines: Deep clean your face daily to remove the tiny particulate matter that can collect in your pores.

Over time, pollution can be harmful to our skin, and it’s important to prevent as well as treat that damage. Our team at Greenville Dermatology can recommend products or treatments depending on the severity of the affects to your skin. Call Greenville Dermatology at 864-242-5872 to schedule an appointment today.

Teaching Children Healthy Skin Care Habits

A lifetime of healthy skin practices can begin early by encouraging your children to make smart skin care decisions. Many of these habits can be developed at a young age, which will help prevent problems such as acne or skin cancer later in life. While most skin issues will not occur until a child is between 10 and 13, establishing a routine—like brushing your teeth twice a day—can begin much sooner. The best time to start is between ages 5 and 8, when children begin to take responsibility for their own hygiene.

Here are some key practices to encourage with your child:

·         Daily facial cleansing: This important step can be added into a child’s morning or bedtime routine. It is important to use warm water and a gentle cleanser, especially with young children, as a more powerful cleanser can irritate eyes and sensitive skin. Look for products that are marked as gentle, non-abrasive and do not contain alcohol.

·         Hydrating products: Children’s skin can dry out just like adults, especially in winter months. Hydrating body washes can help keep skin moisturized in the bath or shower, and a light moisturizer applied after washing can help keep skin soft. These tools can be especially helpful for pre-teens that experience dry or itchy skin. Look for products that contain shea butter, which is known for its natural moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties.

·         Sunscreen usage: Teaching your child to use sunscreen is essential for a lifetime of healthy skin, especially as melanoma cases have increased by 2.9 percent in people under the age of 20, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. While many children understand that sunscreen is necessary at the beach or the pool, parents should also remind children to keep sunscreen handy for all outdoor activities, whether it is a short walk with the dog or a trip to the zoo. Sunscreen should always be SPF 30 or higher, provide broad-spectrum protection and be used throughout the year.

·         Early signs of acne: According to the American Academy of Dermatology, more than 40 percent of adolescents have acne, and nearly 85 percent of all people will have acne at some point in their lives. Because this is such a common skin issue, make sure to discuss acne with children as they approach their teenage years so they are prepared to spot it in the beginning stages. For mild or moderate acne, over-the-counter treatments that contain benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid will be the best for young teens in order to maintain healthy skin. If those milder treatments are not effective, it is important to seek professional care and help your child find a solution that works best for their skin.

·         Set a good example: Modeling good skin care habits and taking care of your own skin will help children learn how to care for their skin independently. If children see healthy skin habits in action, they will be much more likely to emulate those routines as they grow older. 

Skin health is an important part of your child’s physical development. If you are concerned about any potential issues, it is always best to seek professional advice. At Greenville Dermatology, we treat patients of all ages and can help your child find the right treatment that will work best for his or her needs. Call Greenville Dermatology at 864-242-5872 to schedule an appointment today.

Answers.com: Are Antibiotics Necessary To Treat Acne?

The following is a preview of an article Dr. Miller wrote for Answers.com. Click here to read the full article.

Teenagers have gone to dermatologists for years to help them get rid of their pimples and blackheads. For decades, dermatologists have relied upon oral and topical antibiotics to treat their patients' acne. When initially used for acne in the 1960's, antibiotics worked extremely well. However, over time, the acne bacterium has become resistant to many antibiotics and the use of antibiotics in acne as a necessary treatment is now being questioned.

Why Use Antibiotics In Treating Acne?

The theory behind using antibiotics in acne stems from research that shows that in most cases of acne, there is an overgrowth of a bacterium called Propionibacterium acnes (P.acnes). Since there is an overgrowth of P.acnes, it stands to reason that an antibiotic may help. The antibiotic reduces or eliminates P. acnes, therefore improving the acne.

What Is The Problem With Antibiotic Use in Acne?

Reducing the bacterium that causes acne by using antibiotics may seem to be a good idea, however, there are several problems. First, once the antibiotics are stopped, P. acnes can start to grow again requiring ongoing antibiotic use. Eventually, P. acnes becomes resistant to the antibiotic being used and therefore, another antibiotic is necessary. Furthermore, it has been shown that P. Acnes can transmit its resistance to other more harmful bacteria. Secondly, the antibiotics used do not target only P. acnes. Other bacteria in our bodies, many of them beneficial, are eliminated as well and this can lead to other problems, particularly in the intestines. Lastly, P. acnes can be found and cultured from people who don't even have acne just as easily as it can be found on people who suffer from acne. Therefore, reducing or eliminating P. acnes may not be as important as it was once thought.

For more on this topic, including the alternative methods for treating acne, read Dr. Miller’s full article on Answers.com.

When trying to decide if you’d like to use antibiotics as a treatment for acne or try an alternative approach, be sure to consult your dermatologist first. At Greenville Dermatology, our skin care experts can help you determine what treatment is best for your skin. To schedule an appointment, call (864) 242-5872 today. 

Protect your skin with the right clothing

As temperatures begin to drop this fall, it’s time to think about protecting skin from the elements. Changing your summer skin care regimen to adapt to the crisp fall air should still include all the basics – a hydrating cleanser, a thicker moisturizer and, yes, more sunscreen. But protecting skin from the sun, wind and (albeit rare) sub-freezing temperatures of cooler seasons should also include additional clothing.

A majority of the 3.7 million skin cancers diagnosed in the U.S. annually are caused by UV radiation from the sun, according to The Skin Cancer Foundation. Clothing absorbs and blocks much of the sun’s harmful radiation and is our first line of defense. Plus, accessorizing can be fun!

Here’s what we recommend:

Layer on the layers

Weather in the South is unpredictable – hot one minute and cool the next; and the sunshine can be deceiving. In warmer temperatures, layers that can be removed will allow skin to breathe and prevent sweat from irritating the skin. Keep long-sleeved options handy in colder temperatures to avoid exposing skin to unexpected wind and cold.

The types of clothing you choose also matters – tightly woven fabrics like denim and wool have smaller holes between the threads and block more UV rays than open weaves like lace. Synthetic fibers like polyester and rayon offer the greatest protection, while cottons offer the least. Some manufacturers offer sun-protective clothing with an ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) label, which indicates what fraction of the sun’s UV rays can penetrate the fabric. Look for products that offer UPF of 30 or higher.

Choose the Right Accessories

Even the most disciplined person can forget to put sunscreen on the scalp, neck and tops of the ears. However, these areas receive the most sun exposure and are particularly susceptible to the two most common forms of skin cancer: basal and squamous cell carcinoma; and, people with melanoma of the head and neck are almost twice as likely to die from the disease as patients with melanomas on other parts of the body, according to the Foundation. Hands and feet are also some of the most exposed areas of the body.

Thankfully, cooler temperatures make hats, scarves, socks and gloves safe and stylish options to protect these sun-prone areas. Experts recommend a wide-brimmed hat or one that at least covers the ears and back of the neck for the most protection. If you choose a smaller hat, opt for a stylish scarf or neck gaiter that can be draped around the neck and even pulled up over the nose and cheeks. Other great options include ear muffs or headbands that cover the ears.

Sunglasses

Sunglasses are not just for summer. The sun’s UV rays cause up to 90 percent of the visible changes attributed to aging, such as wrinkles, brown spots and sagging skin, as well as skin cancers around the eyes. In fact, five to 10 percent of all skin cancers develop on the eyelids, according to the Foundation.

Look for sunglasses that cover as much of the eyes, eyelids and surrounding skin as possible. Check the tag to verify that they block 99-100 percent of all UV radiation (UVA and UVB). Prescription eyewear can also be coated for UV protection.

The retail store at Greenville Dermatology offers several sun-protective accessories, from gloves and hats to scarves and sunglasses. Visit our retail store at 369 Woodruff Road to check out our Summer Specials or call Greenville Dermatology at 864-242-5872 for more information.

The Future of Dermatology

One of the most exciting things about medicine is that it is constantly evolving. New technologies are changing the way doctors deliver care, the way patients engage in health care and the advancement of scientific research. Take the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge for example. At the time of this post, the ALS Association had raised more than $94 million to help find a cure for Lou Gehrig’s Disease by way of a bucket and a smart phone. As impressive as that is, it’s just a sample of the most extraordinary things happening at the touch of a button.

A recent issue of Dermatology World examined the future of technology in dermatology and how practice models are changing as a result. Below is a roundup of some of the latest – and future – advancements their panel of experts hope will help us take better care of our patients.

Pain-free exams

The idea: Using non-invasive devices to examine skin, make a diagnosis and monitor treatment – in person or from the comfort of your home is not far off. For example, MelaFind is already being used to see under the skin’s surface to determine whether a lesion needs to be biopsied, and a new device called Melanoscan can use psoriasis light boxes and 30 cameras to take full-body images and monitor lesions for change. The future of dermatology includes the possibility of patients attaching special microscopes to their phones and sending pictures of their skin to doctors from anywhere.

The bottom line: Patients save a trip to the doctor and discomfort from a painful biopsy, and doctors can provide more rapid and accurate diagnoses. The International Skin Imaging Collaboration Melanoma Project is developing standards around technology, techniques and terminology in order to regulate these practices.

Technology that facilitates patient-doctor communication

The idea: Computer-assisted diagnosis will be a game-changer for doctors and patients, according to Jack Lewin, MD, chairman of the National Coalition on Health Care. His prediction involves an app that would formulate a diagnosis based on patient and doctor input of symptoms, medical issues, etc. “That will allow us to reduce the disturbingly frequent rate of misdiagnosis and/or use of therapeutics that will not be helpful to a patient for a number of reasons: maybe because of their genetic individuality, maybe because of a history of allergy,” explained Dr. Lewin.

The bottom line: Together, doctors and patients working with computer software can provide a more accurate, low cost and timely method of diagnosis. Many apps are already in development for this.

Customized medication

The idea: Using an individual’s genome and the disease they have to create medication that is customized for them. While we are beginning to use more biologics, or drugs derived from living cells that target specific gene pathways of diseases, this treatment is still in its early days. Daniel M. Siegel, MD, clinical professor of dermatology at the State University of New York at Downstate School of Medicine and past president of the Academy of Dermatology, hopes that as we get more targeted with biologics, we’ll get to a point where we can really target treatment toward a specific individual’s genetic makeup.

The bottom line: Biologics are believed to have fewer side effects than traditional medications because they are targeted to specific disease processes. While biologics are still being heavily scrutinized, several have already been approved by the FDA for treatment of psoriasis.

Greenville Dermatology strives to pursue the newest advances and cutting-edge technology to better serve our patients and is already using some of these resources. To learn more about how these advancements might help your skincare needs, call Greenville Dermatology today at (864) 242-5872 to schedule an appointment with our specialists.

5 Hidden Risks of Psoriasis

As many as 7.5 million Americans have psoriasis, according to the National Psoriasis Foundation (NPF). This autoimmune disease causes raised, red, scaly, itchy patches to appear on the skin and can be a debilitating condition. But while the itch and red patches can often be managed with topical creams and medications, some “silent” symptoms of psoriasis are the most dangerous. A growing body of research has shown people with psoriasis are at an increased risk of developing other chronic and serious health conditions, such as cancer, diabetes and heart disease.

Here’s the breakdown:

High blood pressure and cholesterol – In a 2011 study at the University of California Davis, dermatologists found that people with psoriasis have a harder time controlling their high blood pressure and needed more medication to control their hypertension than people without the skin condition. Researchers also found that people with psoriasis are more likely to have high cholesterol.

Heart disease – People with severe psoriasis are 58 percent more likely to have a major cardiac event and 43 percent more likely to have a stroke, according to research. A 2012 study funded by the NFP showed that inflammation over large areas of the body caused by psoriasis can lead to inflammation in major arteries, such as the aorta. Combined with increased risk factors for high blood pressure and cholesterol, the risk of heart attack is significantly increased. The good news is that aggressive treatment of psoriasis can lead to a significant decrease in the risk for developing heart disease.

Diabetes – A 2012 study published in the Archives of Dermatology found that people with severe psoriasis are also 46 percent more likely to have type 2 diabetes and those with mild psoriasis have an 11 percent increased risk of developing diabetes. The connection was true even in the absence of traditional diabetes risk factors, such as obesity. However, obesity is also a risk factor for psoriasis, so maintaining a healthy weight and getting regular diabetes screenings are important preventive measures for people with psoriasis.

Cancer – Research has also shown a connection between psoriasis and certain types of cancer, such as a squamous cell carcinoma (a form of skin cancer) and lymphoma. The exact link between psoriasis and cancer is still unknown, but some scientists believe some medications used to treat psoriasis could be the culprit. Talk to a dermatologist about your overall health and risk factors to ensure the best treatment for your needs is prescribed.

Depression – About one-quarter of people with psoriasis suffer from depression as a result of the emotional distress caused by the embarrassing skin condition. In fact, the NPF says people with psoriasis are twice as likely to become depressed as the rest of the population. Studies have shown that treating psoriasis can alleviate the symptoms of depression.

With proper treatment and healthy lifestyle choices, people with psoriasis can prevent more serious health problems. If you suffer from psoriasis, talk to your dermatologist about what you can do to reduce your risk of developing these deadly conditions. Call Greenville Dermatology at 864-242-5872 to schedule an appointment today.

Answers.com: Things to Know About Exfoliation

The following is a preview of an article Dr. Miller wrote for Answers.com. Click here to read the full article.

It is hard to open a beauty publication these days without reading something about exfoliation and the importance of it. There are a host of products on the market as well that advertise that they help to exfoliate the skin. Here are some important things to know about exfoliation.

What Is Exfoliation?

To understand exfoliation, it is first important to understand the way our skin is made. New skin cells are formed only at the lowest layer of the skin. Once the skin cell is made, it will slowly be pushed upwards by new skin cells being made beneath it. As it is pushed up, it flattens out and becomes harder and thicker with a substance called keratin. Once on the surface of the skin, the skin cell will eventually dry out and fall off naturally. When the skin cells fall off, it is called “exfoliation.” Since exfoliation happens naturally, we should only have to help ourselves exfoliate if there is a problem with the skin. Not everyone has to exfoliate.

Who Should Exfoliate?

While anyone can exfoliate, not everyone needs to. Teenagers with acne, people with oily skin, and those with aging skin can all benefit by exfoliating. Acne and oil can hinder the natural exfoliation process and cause dead skin to pile up. As we age, the rate at which new skin cells are formed slows down, leading to dull looking skin. By exfoliating, we can speed up the rate of cell turnover, making skin look younger.

Who Should Avoid Exfoliation?

People with sensitive skin and a skin condition called rosacea can actually create more problems by exfoliating. Exfoliating with a sensitive skin condition or rosacea can make the skin very red and inflamed. People with these conditions are better off using anti-inflammatory products to calm the skin.

How Do I Exfoliate?

There are two types of exfoliation: physical and chemical. For some people, all that is required is simply washing the face with a clean washcloth and gently scrubbing the face with exfoliation cleanser. For more severe cases, using a hand held rotary device such as a Clarisonic, or getting a microdermabrasion may be necessary. For people with more sensitive skin, mild cleansers with fruit acids such as glycolic acid may be more appropriate. A dermatologist can determine if even more aggressive exfoliation needs to be performed such as facials or chemical peels.

What Are The Benefits Of Exfoliation?

When done correctly, exfoliation can improve the skin tone, texture and appearance. Skin conditions such as acne improves. Dull, sun damaged skin can become more youthful in appearance.

What Is The Downside Of Exfoliation?

People with sensitive skin who exfoliate can make their skin more red and irritated. Over aggressive exfoliation for any skin type can result in excessive irritation and other problems. Exfoliation at home should only be performed once or twice a week. Chemical peels, microdermabrasion and facials should only be performed once a month or less. Small, hard, white bumps called “milia” can form if over aggressive exfoliation is performed.

When trying to decide if exfoliation is right for your skin, be sure to consult your dermatologist first. At Greenville Dermatology, our skin care experts can help you determine what exfoliation regime you should follow and what type of products are best suited for your skin. To schedule an appointment, call (864) 242-5872 today.