Seborrheic Keratosis & Actinic Keratosis: What’s The Difference?

Seborrheic Keratosis & Actinic Keratosis: What’s The Difference?

Seborrheic Keratosis is a harmless skin growth that grows on the epidermis layer of the skin, whereas actinic keratosis refers to a dangerous malignant growth that develops in the skin.

Actinic keratosis is referred to by dermatologists as “pre-cancerous” because of its tendency to develop into skin cancer. These usually develop into a malignant growth known as squamous cell. They attack a healthy body by forming squamous cell carcinoma which spreads to the inner parts of the body. Studies by health care professionals term this type of keratosis as life threatening. It can develop into skin cancer if a dermatologist is not consulted soonest possible. These are completely different to seborrhoeic keratosis, but if you are not sure of the differences you should always get a change in your skin checked by a doctor. Here we will highlight some of the differences between the two.

Seborrheic Keratosis grows only at the top layer of the skin. At first they appear as small bumps but with time they multiply and enlarge producing horny surfaces. On the other hand, skin cancer comes as result of some types SKs which are far much serious than normal SKs.

There are variety of differences and similarities of SKs and skin cancer. The Seborrheic keratosis, to begin with, is round or oval shaped with defined borders that tempt one to try and scrape them off. For the malignant growth it’s a different case. The skin cancer outgrowths are reddish or dark. The appearance is very worrisome since they look like sores.

Seborrheic keratosis & skin cancer are caused by many factors. After keen studies, analysts suggested that skin cancer can arise due to over exposure of the harmful ultra violent rays from the sun. In addition, non healing wounds as a result of SKs can gradually spread internally to become malignant growths. Most of these chronic wounds may exist due to allergic reactions which irreversibly harms the skin. For SKs they can be hereditary among specific families. This means benign growths can appear even on children from certain extended families.

Generally, the two seem to share similar features. So administering a diagnosis can be the only way to distinguish Seborrheic and the skin cancer. Observation can’t disintegrate the two. Unlike SKs which can be left to disappear on their own, malignant growth might call for micrographic surgery, photodynamic therapy, etc.

If the dermatologists’ results show the skin growth is Seborrheic keratosis then the condition can be resolved by a simple home treatment. Low sugary and low fat diets are bound to bring good results. Observing hygiene is equally essential.

Many people believe that Seborrheic keratosis and skin cancer can be prevented by avoiding direct sun rays exposure but there are other factors which come into play. For instance, adopting unhealthy lifestyle like smoking is tipped as a major threat.

Reported cases of both Seborrheic & Actinic keratosis are on the increase in contrast to the past. It’s advisable to comprehend these causes, diagnosis and treatment and keep your skin healthy and safe through out your life time.

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Age Spots & Vitamins

Age Spots & Vitamins

Age spots can also be called liver spots which is often as a result of ageing or sun damage on the skin. It can be treated and prevented by using vitamins and mineral supplements. Medically, it is said that if proper precaution is taken, eat well and also use supplements. Since age spots in seen in adults in their 40’s and above, proper precaution can be used to manage and control age spots even as they age. Age spots are common in both men and women. Generally they are usually small and flat and can be in three different colors which are black, brown and red. They vary in size and can appear on any part of the body that is exposed to the sun. Age spots are usually harmless but if it changes color, itch, become thick and bleed, it should be examined by a doctor as it may be something more serious.

Age Spots & VitaminsVitamins like vitamin E, vitamin C, vitamin A, etc can be used effectively in preventing and treating age spots. Improving of health style as well as life style, eating a balanced diet and regular exercise can also help to prevent and cure age spots.

In preventing and curing of age spots, vitamin A, which has tretinoin as a topical part of it is highly effective in treating age spots as it helps to the cells of the body.  Vitamin C is also good in fighting age spots. It is not only used as a sun block vitamin, it also protects the skin and helps to make it look younger in appearance. A dosage of not more than 500 milligram of vitamin C, including medicines, fruits and food supplements should be taken every day to help fight age spots. Vitamin E has antioxidants which are very effective in preventing and protecting the skin against age spots. Daily intake of fruits and food supplements rich in vitamin E is advisable in fighting age spots. Another vitamin that may help to fight age spots when consumed regularly and on daily basis is vitamin D. vitamin D helps in the detoxification of the body there by helping to prevent age spots. It should also be consumed in the form of fruits and food supplements. B6, B complex, calcium & magnesium, lecithin etc are some of the vitamins and minerals that are useful in fighting age spots.

Generally speaking, age spots are not dangerous or harmful but they can be dangerous and damaging to your self-esteem. If you protect yourself from the sun, eat well and take vitamins, fruits and food supplements regularly, you will have nothing to worry about.

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Does Health Insurance Cover Liver Spots?

Does Health Insurance Cover Liver Spots?

Insurance companies provide an agreement to reimburse persons for specific losses, damages, illnesses or death in return for payment. When deciding on a health insurance policy, it is typical to evaluate the benefits and cost before going into any agreement. Some health insurance is specific as to what they cover, and as a result, sometimes you end up paying more out of your pocket.

The amount of money paid out by the insured person is usually less than that of the person who is uninsured. Insurance rates are generally set by private and government entities and they also decide what health issues are covered; medically necessary or cosmetics.

Liver spots are not deemed “medical” and are more of a cosmetic problem. It is a patch like blemish on the skin, particularly on the areas of the body that has been exposed to the sun. It is mainly caused from over exposure to the UV rays from the sun. It is also common in people age 40 and above because at that age, regeneration of new skin cells occurs slower. Even though liver spots are not cancerous, it may not be a bad idea to have a skin examination annually, as liver spots are caused by over exposure to the sun, which can also cause other more severe conditions such as actinic keratosis which is precancerous.

In general, no health insurance would cover treatments for this type of skin condition. Although treatments may be as expensive as $5000 for a chemical peel, this is still not a rationale for coverage under any insurance scheme. Additionally, there are inexpensive ways to treat liver spots. Over the counter oral or topical solutions may very well be under $60.

Plastic surgeries are not covered by health insurance, unless it is deemed by a doctor that it is necessary. Reconstructive surgery after an accident is considered necessary and therefore is covered by health insurance companies. So is reconstructive surgery after a previous surgery, such as a mastectomy. Breast reduction may sound cosmetic, but not if it threatens the natural curve of the spine. On the other hand, breast enhancements are not covered as this is entirely for cosmetics and appearance.

Insurance policies vary at insurance companies and each has a number of plans. Some of which are individual, family, business, life and dental. It is up to you, based on your requirements and the premium you are able to pay each month, to choose the one that best suits you. You should also consider your job stability. If your economic situation is unsecure and might not be for while, then you may want to consider a short-term insurance policy or a temporary medical plan.

In conclusion, your health insurance unfortunately will not cover any payments associated with removing liver spots. The good news is however, that there are still inexpensive ways to improve and enhance your appearance and attractiveness.

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Seborrheic Keratosis: Is Their Color Important?

Seborrheic Keratosis: Is Their Color Important?

Seborrheic Keratosis can be identified by the color of the lesions. Color plays a big role in distinguishing different skin lesions and determining their seriousness. For instance, skin condition between melanomas lesion and SKs lesion.

There are two different types of Seborrheic Keratosis, namely Stucco Keratosis and Dermatosis papulosis nigra. The two types are of different colors making it possible for the Dermatologists and other experts in medical field to easily identify them. Stucco keratosis normally appears light brown to white when keenly observed, whereas for Dermatosis papulosis nigra which are well known to affect dark skinned individuals, are easily visible though they are few millimeters in size.

Hence, SKs (Seborrheic Keratosis) can only be differentiated from each other by examining their color. Apart from nodular melanomas, some of skin growths with darkly pigmented lesions are hard to notice. This further supports why skin growths color is important.

Moreover, skin disorders on every human being vary in appearance from one individual to another regardless of age or sex. The colors range from light tan to black. In some cases, melanoma cancer looks alike with Seborrheic Keratosis. With such incidents analysts suggest keen examination on the skin color to prevent any health risk like cancer.

Color has highly assisted the Medical personnel to comprehend the exact issues addressed by their patients. The waxy like growths are never painful unless if you accidentally catch on clothing, rub against the house wall, or come into contact with sporting equipments. In any of these cases, irritation occurs changing the skin growth color to red. The technique of knowing and interpreting color changes has simplified medical matters in greater extent at health centers.

When dermatologists keenly study clinical history of color, they are able to identify the type of skin condition or skin lesion. Take for example, growth of elevated lesion on your chest which keeps changing its color and turns from pale tan to light gray color. Without clearly understanding the clinical history of color it would seem very hard to categorize the lesion. Is it SKs or another type of skin condition?  So color leads to correct diagnosis.

The color can also be used to judge the seriousness behind the skin disorder. It determines if there is need for immediate medication. For example, dark brown lesions sometimes signify that the lesion is in critical condition and requires urgent treatment because that patient would be having inflammation of the outgrowths. On the other hand, skin growths that are light or pale in color might mean the disorder is in its first stages and not painful or serious.

Therefore, color has simplified the way of differentiating Seborrheic keratosis from other skin disorders.

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Medical Treatment For Liver Spots

Medical Treatment For Liver Spots

Medical treatment for liver spots can only be prescribed by a dermatologist; they are the ones who can examine your condition and be able to tell whether your conditions are at its mild stage or advanced stage. A dermatologist can note the signs and symptoms of Liver spots and differentiate it from other skin conditions. Assuming your condition will only worsen the condition as you may be treating liver spots when you are actually suffering from skin cancer. Seek a proper medical practitioner to guide you on the dangers of your infection and how you can go about treating the infection.

There are several methods you can use to cure your treatment, in order to get the best treatment for your skin first understand your skin. Knowing whether your skin has less melanin or not will help you prevent your skin from excess sun rays. Get help from a medical practitioner on the best sun screen you can use for your skin, let the dermatologist explain to you the changes you will incur while using the prescriptions. Some of the prescriptions may act slowly on your body therefore no need to jump between medications in search for the best, give time and not any significant changes.

You should use the prescription as prescribed by the doctor, take time to read the instructions provided by the manufacturer. This is because some prescriptions don’t go well with body appliances and mixing them may only make conditions worse. Your skin may develop allergic reactions after applying the lotion; if you experience such reactions seek medical attention as fast as possible. Allergic reactions to the medication should not worry you as different skin types react differently to different medication. The dermatologist is the only one able to provide an alternative medication for you if you develop search reactions.

Let it be a habit for you to inquire more on the prescription you are being diagnosed, also take caution of the dermatologist attending to you. Ensure the dermatologist is qualified and licensed this will save you the trouble of being coned. When purchasing medication for liver spots look for the expiry date at the seal, while ensuring you are buying from a licensed pharmaceutical. Liver spots is not a dangerous infection that may require the necessary attention of a doctor, but it is always better to get advice from your doctor on what precautions you should take.

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Cost Of Age Spots Treatment

Cost Of Age Spots Treatment

Age spots which can also be called sun damage or solar lentigines are ugly brown patches on the skin that has been exposed to sun for too long. They are usually flat, small and oval in shape and dark or light brown or red in color. Age spot is mostly common in adults but young ones who sunbathe regularly can also get age spots which means that an age spot does not only occur because of old age but also sun damage. Age spots can also be gotten from cream, cosmetics and the tanning beds and lamps.Cost Of Age Spots Treatment

Age spots treatments are not expensive. They are actually cheap and easy to get. From natural methods to chemical and medical methods. The natural way of treating and preventing age spots first and foremost is to avoid the sun as much as you can. Although the sun gives vitamin D, it increases the body production of melanin which is responsible for the color of the skin. The melanin that is produced does not spread evenly but clots in one place which will cause ugly brown patches on the skin. Another way is to cover your body well by wearing long sleeves and high necked dresses. Also, simple remedies like daily application of vinegar and onions juice can be used. Age spots can be removed chemically by using bleaching creams or lotions and oils that best suits your skin. These creams are effective and quite affordable to buy.

In treating age spots medically, it must first be examined by a skin doctor who will then tell you if it is actually an age spot or a skin disease, and depending on your skin type, will give you prescriptions. Follow the doctor’s prescription diligently and in sooner than you think, the spots will be gone!

So, don’t worry about the size of your pocket! If you have age spots, go for any method that best suits you and your pocket. Which ever method you chose, one thing is sure; your age spots will be permanently removed.

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LiverSpots

LiverSpots

Liverspots, otherwise known as solar lentigo, are nothing more than harmless and painless blemishes that occur because of over exposure to the UV rays of the sun. They are light brown, red or black pigmentation. Could this have been avoided you asked? The obvious is clear; you have to stay out of the sun or use precautionary measures.

Having liverspots is not the end of your beautiful skin. There are treatments to treat this type of skin condition. Oral and topical solutions offer a long term solution. Sometimes the condition is more severe and would therefore require prescription medicine. Liverspots can also be removed through laser treatment, electro surgery or cryotherapy. For the average income earning persons, these options may be expensive.

All of us spend some amount of time in the sun on a daily basis. So, it may not be entirely possible to stay out of the sun. Sunscreen or sunblock is a lotion, gel or spray that is applied to the skin to prevent the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun. Sunscreens are classified in two, whereby, one absorbs the UV rays and the other reflects the sunlight.

Sunscreen when applied, can be very effective in absorbing or reflecting the ultraviolet radiation on the skin that is exposed to sunlight; thereby preventing sun burn. Since the main cause of liverspots is over exposure to the sun, it is important to wear sunscreen. Cancer organizations generally recommend that sunscreen be worn, as it may prevent also skin cancer. The lighter the skin, the more susceptible it is to the damaging effects of the sun.

Choosing the right sunscreen product will be easier with some basic knowledge. The market is saturated with various brands of sunscreen. So, one should pay attention to the Sun Protection Factor (SPF) number. The higher the SPF factor or number, the better or longer the protection will be. Someone wearing sunscreen lotion with SPF 30 will not turn red or feel the effects of the sun until after 30 minutes. Therefore, if the time in the sun will exceed the 30 minutes then one must keep reapplying. Applying liberally to all exposed areas is also a must for its effectiveness.  And, it should be applied several minutes before going into the sun.

According to science, the ozone layer is what protects us from the ultraviolet rays from the sun. If in fact this is depleting, then, we are at a greater risk of developing some type of skin cancer or liverspots. As a result, it is of paramount importance that we take the necessary precautions in protecting our beautiful skin.

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Actinic Keratoses

Actinic Keratoses

Actinic keratoses is a skin disease that targets fair-skinned people who are fond of the outdoors, AK for short. They are unnoticeable at first because they often have the same color with the skin but only when one touches them do they identify the difference of the texture of the skin. People who are not familiar with the AK tends to dismiss this as something natural that appears on the skin but it should not be ignored as some skin changes could be a sign for precancerous disease, meaning that it is highly possible for it to develop to cancer.

AK does not appear on the skin suddenly. Its process of appearing on the skin is slow and they enlarge slowly as well. They sometimes appear as small spots on the skin and they appear on specific parts that are exposed much to the sunlight such as the face, the ears or the lips. The development of the AK takes years and it usually appears on older adults age 30 and above. Preventing AK from developing any farther is through minimizing oneself from exposing to the sun.

The symptoms and signs of actinic keratoses vary but usually it causes itchiness, rough to touch or sometimes there is a burning sensation on the affected area. The color of the AK on the skin varies from pink, brown or sometimes it has the same color with the flesh. When the symptoms of the AK persist, it is recommended to seek medical attention.

The main cause of actinic keratoses is from overexposure to the sun that is why most of the people who are fond of the outdoors are generally the ones who are affected with this skin disease. Generally the new and healthy cells push out the older cells onto the epidermis of the skin and then they eventually die but when the cells of the skins are damaged because of the UV rays of the sun, there are some changes of the color and texture of the skin which then causes lesions and blotchiness.

The common cause of the damaging of cells is through the UV rays of the sun and the commercialized tanning beds and lamps. The damages of the skin cells add up so the more one exposes themselves to these causes the higher the chances of acquiring skin cancer. The more it becomes possible if the outdoor activity one is doing is during high noon when it is the time for the rays of the sun to be very intense.

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Liver Spots & Curettage

Liver Spots & Curettage

What do we know about liver spots other than that they are unpleasant to look at? Liver spots, also known as solar lentigo or age spots, occur as a result of prolonged exposure to the sun and/or UV radiation.  While liver spots were once mistakenly thought to be related to liver functions, in actuality, they occur most often in areas where the sun hits: the back of the hands, forehead, shoulders, and face.

While most age spots occur in persons over forty years, it is not uncommon to find liver spots on younger people. They often appear tan or light brown in color and of an oval shape. For the most part, liver spots are harmless but if you notice changes in occurring that causes worry, go to a doctor for a diagnosis. Liver spots are for the most part preventable if one follows a few basic steps.

Firstly, keep out of the sun, particularly during the hottest parts of the day which typically occurs during the mid-morning and the mid-afternoon. Secondly, if you must go out, wear protective clothing, that is, long-sleeved shirts and blouses, long plants, hats and scarves. There is also specially made clothing with ultraviolet protection factor (UPF). Thirdly, and most importantly, always use sunscreen with an SPF factor of 30 or more, applying it at least half hour before going out, reapplying generously at regular intervals. Should these precautions fail, there are treatments available. Most persons opt to apply topical creams and lotions often with bleaching qualities to reduce the look of the spots. One method of treatment, not as often used, is curettage.

Curettage is a medical procedure which involves the use of an instrument, called a curette (the French word for scoop) which is scoop or hoe shaped instrument, approximately the size of a scalpel which may be either blunt or sharp. The curette is used to remove tissue by scraping or scooping the lining of a body cavity, primarily of foreign matter, to remove tumors or other diseased tissue, or simply to obtain a sample of tissue for diagnosis.

Treatment for liver spots using curettage involves numbing the skin with a local anesthetic, followed by the scraping of the blemishes. Gentle scarring or burning using heated instruments is called cautery. In cases where the spots appear abnormal or if there is a slight suspicion, a tissue sample is sent to the lab for examination, to determine whether or not melanoma is present.

Admittedly, this is not a widely used treatment for liver spots as they are not generally considered serious or malignant. However, it is an option for those whom alternative treatments do not work. Consider carefully before choosing curettage as an option for removing liver spots.

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Age Spots & The Importance Of Sunscreen

Age Spots & The Importance Of Sunscreen

Age Spots & The Importance Of SunscreenContrary to its name, age spots are not always caused by old age but also by exposure of the skin to the rays of sun. It is also caused by poor diet, too much intake of junk foods and sometimes by smoking. Although it is a common disease in their 40’s upwards, young adults that expose their skin to sunlight are likely to get age spots. The tendency of having an age spot is high in fair skinned people than dark skinned as their body produces lesser melanin. Age spots are not permanent; they can be removed without having to go through surgery but it is better to prevent it from even occurring.

Some people like to sunbathe and tan their skin, there is nothing wrong in tanning your skin or sunbathing but it is important to protect your skin against sun damage while sunbathing. There are many ways of preventing age spots like eating a balanced diet, taking fruits like lemon juice and papaya, vegetables like onion juice, vitamins etc, simple and every day home remedies can help fight against age spots. One very important and painless way to protect your skin from sun spots is by using sunscreen. Sunscreen is a substance used on the skin to prevent it from being damaged by the sun. It could be in the form of lotion, cream, gel, oil or spray; it is applied on the skin to prevent the skin from getting sun spots due to the long hours the skin is exposed to the sun. There are two types of sunscreen: one stays one the top layer of skin, acting as a blockage to sun rays and the other goes into the innermost layer of skin to absorb sun rays, they are measured with sun protection factor which helps to know how effective a particular sunscreen is. Technically, the use of sunscreen prevents ultraviolet rays and UVB rays from getting to the skin and causing sun spots and age spots, it can also help fight against skin cancer and prevent the skin from dehydrating. Apply sunscreen daily and regularly before going outside, wear long sleeved shirts, hats and sunglasses when you stay out for long. Between the hours of 10am and 4pm, the sun is usually very hot and harsh on the skin, always try not to stay out too long between these hours to prevent age spots, sunscreens works better if the skin is not overly tanned. So no matter the age, it is important to apply sunscreen regularly.

There are different types of sunscreen for different skin types, always go for the ones with natural components and see a dermatologist for guide and advice on how to use sunscreen.

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