Keratosis Conditions

Keratosis is a skin condition that normally results from growth of tumors on the upper layer of the skin. This condition is non-cancerous therefore having no major effects or contagious issues to the skin. Before we look at the conditions related to keratosis let us look at the risk factors associated with Keratoses.

Keratosis affects people of all ages however some forms like Keratosis Pilaris affects the younger generation more than the older. Other risk factors linked to Keratosis are; having fair skin, blond or red hair. Suppose you work outdoors then take caution that long term exposure to the sun is also another risk factor, for the mothers know that multiple exposure to the sun can cause severe sunburn to you child since at their early stage in life their skin has not matured enough to protect itself from the sun’s rays.

The symptoms of Keratosis vary depending on the type of keratosis however they are more or less similar. For those having Actinic Keratosis then expect to have rough and dry skin lesions, a patch or growth will appear on the skin either localized to one area or all over the skin surface. The most common areas you will see this tumor is at the back of hands, on the face, scalp, chest or any part of the skin that is frequently exposed to the sun. The tumors begin as a flat or scaly part of the skin sometimes may be itchy and later develops to a hard and wart-like surface in some instances they have horny-like texture. The color of the tumors varies from gray, pink to red for some the tumors are of the same color as the skin. Actinic keratosis is a precancerous condition and must be treated as soon as possible to prevent progression into skin cancer.

Keratosis Pilaris is another type of keratosis that affects people of old age but mostly present in in children and those at the adolescent stage. Patients with Keratosis Pilaris mostly experience a patchy rash scattered on their skin. The patches are made up of very small bumps that are red in color. The affected area may have a rough texture due to the bumps which are red or light red in color that is if they cause inflammation.

Seborrheic keratosis looks the worst but is in fact totally harmless. Characteristics of this is a brown waxy growth on the surface of the skin. Treatment is only necessary if the lesion is irritated by clothing or jewelry, or for cosmetic reasons.

You should always see a doctor if you notice any changes or growths on you skin – only they are qualified to diagnose your condition and advise if treatment is necessary. Many people are unaware that keratosis treatment is available or even that they require a medical checkup since they are presumed to be harmless, you should not let these lesions remain on your skin and cause you discomfort due to friction between the lesion and garments. Seek a medical checkup once you detect this kind of symptoms since as much as they may be harmless, some have been linked to be precursors of cancer or to hide cancerous infections.

They say prevention is better than cure, treatment of Keratosis at an early stage is better and will prevent chances of other infections like skin cancer to occur.

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Age Spots & Enzyme Therapy

From time to time we hear about cleansing as it pertains to our bodies and the reasons for some of the diseases or skin conditions like age spots. We live in a world where pollution surrounds us in every form. The air we breathe not only has oxygen but several other gases such as carbon monoxide. This is one of the reasons why in some countries vehicles have to pass an emission test before it is considered road worthy. When we inhale it goes straight to our lungs and our body does the job of sending the oxygen to the right places allowing our bodies to function as it would each and every day. But there comes a time when our organs fail to operate the way they should.

Toxins in our bodies as a result of pollution and causes the production of these radicals wreaking havoc in our bodies. The end result or by product of this can be several illnesses. Skin conditions such as age spots are also caused by these free radicals.

Age spots are believed to be the result of free radical damage at the cellular level, including our DNA, which causes tissue damage. Free radicals are produced when the bond between the paired electrons are broken. This production causes a chain reaction and may also cause a malfunction in the enzymes.

Enzymes are what give the cells their lives and a part of the whole metabolism process. There are over 3000 actions that are performed by these molecules. It is imperative then, that we feed our bodies with the right nutrients, minerals and vitamins to promote these good molecules. Sadly, enzymes are not popular in the ingredients found in our daily vitamins and nutrients. And, unfortunately this deficiency will lead to various diseases or skin conditions such as age spots.

Age spots are flat brown or black patches of pigmentation found anywhere on the face, neck or arms. Typically it is caused from overexposure to sunlight. They are painless and harmless. It affects adults over the age of 40. Since it is not just a case of overexposure but that there might be some link to free radicals. We may want to consider enzyme therapy in order to prevent the appearance of age spots.

Considering the above facts, enzyme therapy is an excellent solution for treating age spots. Enzyme therapy includes systematic enzyme, enzyme peels and digestive enzyme therapy. Enzyme therapy on a whole is geared towards stimulating the enzymes already found in your body, and cellular activity. Enzyme topical creams and peels are effective methods for treating the spots. The cream is used to dissolve dead and damaged skin cells and exfoliate the skin, while leaving the healthy skin cells in place. The peel gently destroys the dead skin cells without harming the good ones and at the same time accelerates the growth of new skin cells. This is a long term treatment in that, between nine and twelve months you will see visible signs of your fading age spots.

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Pigmentation Treatment Options

Pigmentation disorders are caused by an overproduction or underproduction of melatonin; a common form of pigmentation is hyper-pigmentation, when the body produces too much melanin, resulting in uneven skin tone. Melanin is a natural pigment in the body that produces hair, eye and skin colour and this protects the body from ultraviolet (UV) light. Skin discoloration can be unsightly and can reduce people’s confidence within their appearance. Pigmentation treatment options available today range from laser therapy, light therapy, and self-applicable skin lightening creams and natural remedies. If you have already tried using non-invasive treatments which you have applied yourself, and would like to try seeking professional treatment, there are a number of therapies available.

Laser treatment rejuvenate skin and help overcome pigmentation problems such as hyper-pigmentation. A range of laser treatments are available from professional teatment centers. One of the newest laser treatments is Fraxel laser, which sends multiple tunnels of laser energy into the skin to treat pigmentation. The Fraxel laser stimulates collagen production and removes microscopic islands of epidermis which can improve skin discoloration. A course of two to six treatments is recommended. Fraxel laser therapy can be painful and anesthetic cream can ease pain. The skin can become red and weepy for days afterwards. This treatment makes your skin susceptible to sun damage, which is a leading cause of pigmentation problems, so minimise sun exposure in the aftermath of Fraxel laser therapy.

IPL therapy (intense pulsed light therapy) uses a machine that directs light pulses at areas of skin discoloration, targeting the melanin in the skin to bring about more even pigmentation. IPL therapy can be used to treat pigmented birthmarks, brown patches, and uneven skin tone as a result of sun damage.  While IPL therapy is not as powerful as a laser it should still be administered carefully by a professional. IPL therapy should be tailored to your individual condition and skin type as it can over-lighten skin on dark skin tones. This treatment can sting but anaesthetic and cooling creams can relieve the pain.

L.E.D. light therapy is a non-chemical, non-invasive treatment used for a number of skin conditions including pigmentation problems. Unlike laser treatments for pigmentation problems, this procedure is comfortable.  L.E.D. light therapy is a safe and painless procedure and there is no risk of burning or damaging the skin, so it should not produce scarring. L.E.D. light therapy is suitable for all skin types and skin colour. No peeling or skin irritation occurs afterwards, as can happen in some laser treatments for pigmentation problems. L.E.D. light therapy is particularly useful for treating superficial hyper-pigmentation.

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Liver Spots On The Scalp

When we first discover odd looking discolorations on our skin we begin to worry. What does it mean? Where did it come from and how can I get rid of it? Well, liver spots also called ‘age spots’ are typically found in persons 40 and above. This however, does not mean that younger persons are immune to them. In all probability, you are probably affected by either liver spots, scientifically referred to as solar lentigines which occur due to exposure to the sun, or tinea versicolor which is caused by a fungus. Tinea versicolor can be found in  adolescents and younger children.

Liver spots though, are common and relatively normal. They are not contagious. Liver spots occur due to prolonged and consistent exposure of the skin to ultraviolet rays from the sun. They are light brown or dark spots on the skin, usually in areas that have been consistently exposed to the sun. They commonly on appear on the arms, the face and on the legs. They also occur on the scalp, although rarely, on men who are balding.  This type of liver spots is more often than not seen in people who have diabetes, or, who are receiving steroid, antibiotic or immune-suppressant therapy.

When the scalp is exposed to the sun for a long time, UV rays will break down the collagen and the elastin in the cells causing the skin to be rougher.  This in turns causes a build of melanin and hence dark spots occur. Cosmatically, they are unpleasant to look at and its abundance can cause a great deal of emotional stress. However, liver spots are treatable with applications oral and topical to the skin.

Skin bleaching lotions or creams are just some of the popular over the counter options.  Be careful however, most bleaching lotions use hydroquinone which can cause blisters or other skin reaction in some people. Treatment can also be improved if persons include the right vitamins in their diet. Cost of treatments may range from as low as $60 to $5000; the latter being related to laser treatments or chemical peels. Exfoliating the skin is also another option and this is called dermabrasion. It is usually men who are affected by liver spots on the scalp as they begin to go bald & lose their hair, and they have an image to protect, they may spend the extra to keep their confidence intact.

Simple methods to prevent liver spots:

• Wear protective clothing, e.g. hats, long-sleeved shirts, etc.
• Try to avoid sun exposure at midday, when sunlight is most intense.
• Use high-quality sunscreens with SPF ratings of minimum 30.

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Seborrheic Keratoses

Seborrheic keratoses are skin growths that closely resembles other skin conditions; they have a waxy and greasy characteristic. Seborrheic Keratoses are noncancerous and involves skin growths that originate in keratinocytes. The lesions normally occur at the trunk or head, face, chest, shoulders, the back and the neck region of elderly and middle aged adults. They feel flat or slightly elevated and can range from very small to even larger than 2.5 centimeters and appear in different colors from black to light tan and are oval or round.

The only thing about this skin condition is that it causes one to feel unattractive and though the growths can resemble warts, they have no viral origin. Because only the top layer of the epidermis is affected, the growths are often described as having a pasted on appearance. The growths are normally painless and may require no treatment but you may prefer having them removed if they are irritated by the clothing or for cosmetic reasons like your own body beauty.

Seborrheic keratoses have the following clinical features and symptoms are: The growths have a tan or brown color at the start and they may turn dark over time, they are mainly on the trunks and the neck regions of adults and especially in the later years, the lesions may be contiguous or adjacent malignant skin neoplasm that are of various types, they look like they have been glued to the skin, as opposed to growing from it and they rarely itch and have a greasy appearance.

Although the condition may cause a little irritation bit is okay if you do nothing about it, do not try to remove them yourselves because an infection can occur.

Use mild detergents while washing your clothes so that your skin is not affected when you wear the clothing, and especially the areas affected by the Seborrheic keratoses.

If it is the first time you are using the home remedy, it is advisable that you start by applying on one specific or a small section maybe the back. Do not apply the solution to the whole body. This method will give you a chance to assess how the solution works on your skin and its effects. The examples of these home remedies are using hydrogen peroxide or the use of glycolic acid solution which may sometimes cause some stinging effect on the area of application. If the stinging from the use of such chemicals becomes unbearable, or if you notice another negative effect of the solution, please discontinue use. When applying such chemicals on your spots take care because some may have effects on your skin if mishandled.

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Therapy For Keratosis

LED light therapy is a method of keratosis treatment that induces the use of photosensitizing drug and a particular type of light. The method used to cure keratosis is activated by a certain wavelength of light that is delivered by LED’s. This kind of therapy works to destroy the bacteria that causes keratosis, the light is directed to the sebaceous glands with caution taken on the surrounding tissues since it may cause damages to the tissue. It is not exact as to the frequency of light a patient receives since the frequency depends on the condition of the infection.

LED treatment is a very invasive procedure however if you want to see desired results then a series of treatment has to be performed for you to see any visible changes on your skin. Blue light therapy speeds up the repair mechanism of the cells in the skin plus stimulates the skin to refresh by itself. Never expect the LED light therapy to help you with skin tightening if will do that for your skin the good for you since LED treatment is only directed to cure keratosis.

As much as LED light therapy is a very efficient in treating keratosis it is not clear as to the extent of side effects the patient will experience, none of the patients treated using LED therapy have complained of any side effects. The advantages of LED therapy is that the procedure can be applied on the same area repeatedly without causing any injuries to the skin.

In case you are receiving treatment of keratosis on areas around the face, then most dermatologist recommend appropriate goggles which are specific to the LED wavelength of light. The therapy uses very gentle wavelength of light when treating keratosis hence no eye damages can be incurred by the patient, nevertheless dermatologists don’t recommend LED therapy if the patient experiences migraines or seizures.

The advantage LED light therapy when treating keratosis is that it has minimal side effects which are normally tolerated. What LED therapy does is destroying the mutated tumor cells without causing any effect to the patient’s healthy skin cells. Most patient’s experience slight burning on the treated areas but the goodness is that this burning session is actively reduced by cold air cooling which is normally applied directly after the treatment.

Whenever you are receiving treatment for Keratosis using LED therapy you should at all times brace patience since the lesions take a couple of days to disappear completely and for you to have a healthy skin. Ensure you seek the assistance of a qualified medical practitioner when receiving treatment using LED light therapy for you to get the right treatment for keratosis.

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Age Spot Treatment

Skin blemishes can be a nuisance to your appearance if they appear in areas noticeable to others. An age spot also known as a liver spot or solar lentigo, are one such skin blemish. Light brown or black in color and measures a few millimeters in size. These small patches or blemishes, though painless, may be costly to remove or can be treated with over the counter medicine.

Age spots are mainly caused by the over exposure of the skin to the sun’s ultraviolet rays. This proves even more hazardous if a sunscreen is not used. Therefore the best way to avoid getting these blemishes is to take precaution or lessen the amount of time spent in the sun. Perhaps, you are not able to stay out of the sun and you are not able to keep up appearances. You continue to and cover up your age spot with makeup but that’s just not enough. However, there are many treatment options available.

Over the counter medicines containing hydroquinone, such as skin bleaching creams are inexpensive. For the average person this may be an excellent solution. Creams or topical solutions sold over the counter are usually in low dosages. If you feel that you need something stronger as your age spots are severe, you will have to obtain the medicine by a prescription.

There are also many home remedies available for age spot treatment. These require no additional purchasing as they usually include items found in your medicine cabinet or cupboard. Items such as tea tree oil and lemon juice. But perhaps you are able to afford other alternatives which might have a more lasting effect such as laser therapy.

Laser therapy destroys the melanin cells which causes the dark pigmentation of the age spot. This can cost a few hundred dollars to a few thousand dollars. Patients undergoing the treatment may not see the results until after a few months.

Intense Pulse Light (IPL) therapy is common and effective. It delivers sharp bursts of intense red or blue light on the blemish destroying the sun damage area and making way for new skin cells. Cost of this treatment is dependent on the size of the spot and may range from $300 to $600.

Dermabrasion as the word suggests, is the abrasion and scraping of the skin. The recovery period then, may be a few months as the new skin would take time to grow over the affected age spots area. Treatment ranges from $1000 to $3000.

You can opt for a chemical peel. Prices range from a few hundred dollars to as much as $5000. The amount you pay is dependent on the depth of the peel; superficial, medium or deep. This involves a chemical solution applied to smooth the texture of the skin by removing the affected outer layer.

Whatever your pick, you would have made the right choice. You don’t have to live with your age spot anymore.

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Pigmentation Home Remedy

Pigmentation can cause skin to appear discoloured or blotchy, & can make areas of the skin appear lighter or darker than normal. Pigmentation disorders are caused by an overproduction or underproduction of melanin. Melanin is a natural pigment in the body that produces hair, eye and skin colour. Melanin protects the body from ultraviolet (UV) light. A common form of pigmentation is hyperpigmentation, when the body produces too much melatonin. This causes the skin to become darker than usual and results in uneven skin tone.

Skin pigmentation can be caused by drug reactions, medication, hormonal changes, autoimmune conditions or genetic inheritance. Hormonal changes such as hormonal therapy, pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding or birth control pills can result in changes in skin pigmentation. The biggest cause is sun damage. Local increases in skin pigment production appear as age spots, moles, liver spots or melasma also knows as the pregnancy mask. Freckles are a result of variation in skin pigmentation in which pigment is not released evenly. Dermatologists recommend the use of sunscreen every day. You should use UVA or UVB sunscreen with SPF 30 or more. Limiting exposure to the sun all year round will also help with this problem.

You can use a range of home remedies to improve pigmentation problems. Trying a home remedy is an inexpensive and easy way to reduce hyperpigmentation. Home remedies can be made from simple ingredients available from the supermarket. It’s surprising how effective simple home remedies can be at improving hyper-pigmentation.

Here are some home remedies to try. Mash strawberries and apply to the affected area of skin. Leave for 15 minutes then rinse off. Soak ground almonds overnight and then mix with milk or cream. Apply to your face and leave it on for twenty minutes. This can help to even out the skin tone.

Another remedy is very cheap and easy, using potatoes that you already have in your kitchen cupboard. Grate a raw potato, squeeze any juice out of it and apply to the skin. Leave for 20 minutes and then rinse off. This will lighten your skin. Hyperpigmentation can also be improved with the use of soy products. The natural benefits of soy will reveal more even skin tone and a brighter complexion. Skin pigmentation can be caused by too much iron in your diet. A lack of iron will cause your skin to become lighter while an overload of iron may cause an overproduction of melanin and therefore excess pigment. One remedy that you can try at home is to limit your consumption of iron. Before you invest in more expensive treatments for pigmentation disorders, it may be useful to try these home remedies first to see if they can treat the problem.

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Liver Spots Home Remedy

Liver spots are a skin condition characterized by dark spots with colors ranging from brown tan-brown to red or black. They are caused by exposure to harsh sunlight and appear mainly on adults aged above the age of forty. As the skin ages it becomes less immune to the harsh effects of the sun and production of excess melanin by the body causes formation of these dark spots.

Liver spots occur mainly on parts of the body that are regularly exposed to sunlight such as the face, shoulders, upper arms and the back of the hands. It is however good to note that, complications of the liver do not necessarily cause liver spots, unless in severe cases where the liver is unable to break down toxins in the body. The only similarity between liver spots and the liver is color.

Liver spots are harmless and painless. In very rare cases however, they have however been known to hinder detection of cancerous cells. If your spots change in size or shape often, you are advised to consult a doctor so as to rule out the possibilities of skin cancer.

There are many remedies for liver spots nowadays. They vary from simple home remedies to specialized laser treatments, light therapy and also electro surgery. Some of the home remedies include the application of castor oil, apple cider vinegar, aloe gel and purchase of skin lighteners (also known as bleaches). For those who want quick treatment and can afford it, there are options such as the high intensity pulsed light therapy, laser therapy and electro surgery.

At home however one can also use lemon juice or for much better results one can also prepare a lemon sugar scrub to apply on the liver spots.  The lemon sugar scrub is easy to mix up in just a few minutes. The use of the lemon sugar scrub is quite efficient since the lemon is a natural skin efoliator and the sugar granules fade liver spots very effectively.

In the preparation of the mixture, the lemon juice should not be used undiluted since it has a very high p.H. To prepare the mixture first roll and press the lemon on a hard surface to mush up the inside. This eases the extraction of the juice. Then mix the juice with an equal amount of water. Add white granule sugar gradually until it forms a paste. Rub this mixture on the skin lightly and do not overdo the rubbing.

To prepare moisturized lemon sugar scrub, add almond oil to the mixture and then rub the mixture on the liver spots. Individuals allergic to nuts should avoid any treatment that contains almond oil.

The lemon sugar scrub has been known to work wonders in the removal of liver spots and is recommended to individuals seeking an effective home remedy.

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