If you have nail psoriasis, it’s important to protect your nails. Anything that dries or injures a nail can worsen nail psoriasis or trigger a flare-up. To help patients get the best results from treatment for nail psoriasis and reduce flare-ups, dermatologists recommend the following:
Keep your nails short. This helps prevent nails from lifting off of fingers and toes. It can also help prevent buildup under the nails—a common problem with nail psoriasis.
Wear gloves when doing any type of manual work. This includes housework, yard work, and repairs around your home. Any time you irritate your skin or nails, psoriasis can flare. When doing wet work like washing dishes, it’s best to wear a cotton glove and then place a vinyl or nitrile glove over the cotton glove. Latex gloves cannot give your nails enough protection.
Moisturize your hands. Psoriasis dries your skin and nails. Applying a moisturizer after each hand washing and within three minutes of bathing can help lock in much-needed moisture. A thick cream or ointment works best.
Leave your cuticles alone. Cutting or pushing up your cuticles can injure your skin or lead to an infection. When people who have psoriasis injure their skin or get a skin infection, psoriasis can flare. This reaction is called the Koebner phenomenon.
Avoid biting (or picking at) your nails and the skin around them. This, too, can injure your skin and increase your risk of getting an infection. Injuring your skin or getting a nail infection can worsen psoriasis. Need help to stop biting your nails? Tune in and find out what dermatologists recommend at: How to stop biting your nails.
Resist the temptation to scrape the buildup from under your nails. Removing the buildup can loosen nails and increase your risk of getting an infection. With treatment, the buildup will gradually clear.
Skip the artificial nails. Nail polish and gentle nail buffing are okay and a great way to hide dents (nail pitting) that can develop when you have nail psoriasis. Artificial nails, however, can increase the risk of your nails separating from your fingers—a common problem in nail psoriasis.
Nail psoriasis can be stubborn. When you combine a treatment plan for nail psoriasis with the recommended nail care, you’re much more likely to see improvement.
Images Getty Images
References Dogra A, Arora AK. “Nail psoriasis: The journey so far.” Indian J Dermatol. 2014 Jul;59(4):319-33.
Treating hyperhidrosis is the best way to get relief. To get the best results from treatment, board-certified dermatologists recommend following these tips to help you feel more comfortable:
Use antiperspirant instead of deodorant to reduce sweating. Antiperspirants help reduce sweating. Deodorants don’t. Deodorants are made to mask or stop body odor.
If you want to use both products, you have a few options:
• Choose a product that contains both an antiperspirant and a deodorant.
• When using an antiperspirant that your dermatologist prescribed, apply it before bed to dry skin. Apply deodorant when you wake up. If you also need to apply the antiperspirant when you wake up, ask your dermatologist when it’s best to apply deodorant.
When using a prescription antiperspirant, follow your dermatologist’s directions. Apply it where your dermatologist prescribes, such as your palms, feet, or behind your knees. Keep in mind that you may need to apply it at night to dry skin, then again in the morning.
2. Keep a sweat journal to find what triggers your sweating. A trigger is a specific activity or thing that causes you to start sweating heavily. Triggers often vary from person to person. Keeping a sweat journal can help you find yours.
To keep a sweat journal, write down when your sweating occurs and what you were just doing. Triggers for hyperhidrosis include heat, spicy foods and drinks, and caffeine. Keep in mind that many different foods can be a trigger, including foods that are fatty, sugary, salty, or contain plenty of protein. Drinking alcohol is another possible trigger.
Feelings can also be a trigger. If you’re feeling anxious, nervous, fearful, or stressed, that could trigger heavy sweating.
Once you find your triggers, try to avoid them. This can reduce how much you sweat.
Dress for success. Here are tips that dermatologists give their patients:
Wear breathable fabrics like cotton. These help you feel more comfortable.
Carry a spare set of clothes, so you can change into something dry if needed.
Consider wearing underarm shields or dress shields, which help protect your clothing from sweat.
Care for sweaty feet. When hyperhidrosis affects your feet, dermatologists recommend the following:
Change your shoes and socks often. It’s helpful to avoid wearing the same shoes two days in a row. A day off can allow shoes to dry before you wear them again.
Slip off your shoes when you can. This helps to prevent odor, irritation, and skin infections.
Choose shoes, including sandals, made of a natural material like leather. Natural materials allow air to circulate.
Wear socks made of fabrics that wick moisture away from your skin. Bamboo naturally wicks away moisture. When buying other socks, look for the words “moisture wicking.”You’ll find moisture-wicking socks made of polyester, nylon, and other fabrics. Keep in mind that not all clothing made of polyester or nylon wicks away moisture. That’s why it’s important to look for the words “moisture wicking.”
Use shoe insoles and foot powder that absorb wetness. Doing so can leave your feet feeling more comfortable.
Drink plenty of water. Sweating can dehydrate you.Before you increase the amount of water you drink, check with your doctor. The amount of water you need depends on your overall health, the medications you take, how active you are, and other considerations.
Take care of your mental health. Does sweating heavily make you feel anxious or depressed? Getting counseling, joining a support group, or learning more about hyperhidrosis may help.For more information about hyperhidrosis, visit other pages on this website about hyperhidrosis. Board-certified dermatologists reviewed all this information.You can also learn more about hyperhidrosis at the Hyperhidrosis Society.
Dermatologists understand that living with excessive sweating can reduce your quality of life. When you partner with a board-certified dermatologist to treat hyperhidrosis, you can get sweating under control.
To find a dermatologist who can help, go to Find a Dermatologist and type “excessive sweating” into the search box.
References
Schwartz RA, Altman R. “Hyperhidrosis.” Medscape. Last updated Mar 23, 2021. Last accessed Jun 19, 2024.
Smith CC, Pariser D. “Primary hyperhidrosis.” UpToDate. Last updated May 13, 2024. Last accessed Jun 26, 2024.
Written by:
Paula Ludmann, MS
Reviewed by:
Elizabeth Damstetter, MD, FAAD
Neelam Khan, MD, FAAD
William Warren Kwan, MD, FAAD
Temitayo A. Ogunleye, MD, FAAD
Sanna Ronkainen, MD, FAAD
Last updated: 7/16/24
Declare your independence from skin cancer: perform a skin self-exam this 4th of July
Board-certified dermatologist discusses importance of preventive health measures in recognition of UV Awareness Month
ROSEMONT. Ill. (June 25. 2024) -Brian Ingham was only 32 years old when a board-certified dermatologist discovered melanoma on his back during a routine visit to get a tattoo removed in late 2023. The Washington, D.C.-area military pilot said he knew he was at an increased risk as his mother was recently diagnosed with advanced melanoma that same year. He never realized that the suspicious spot he first noticed in 2020 could also end up being the deadliest form of skin cancer.
“Everyone thinks they’re invincible when they’re young, but sun exposure has ramifications farther down the line,” Ingham said. “I wish I had done more to protect myself-like wearing long-sleeve shirts and sunscreen all the time when I was growing up-but you can’t live in the past. I need to make good decisions right now, because they’ll have an impact on me when I’m 60 or 70 and I’m at a higher risk for a lot of different medical conditions.”
While skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the U.S., it is also one of the most preventable. Ahead of the July 4th weekend and UV Awareness Month in July, the American Academy of Dermatology encourages everyone to regularly perform skin self-exams to catch skin cancer early and protect themselves from the sun to reduce their risks of skin cancer.
“Skin cancer can affect anyone, which is why Brian’s experience highlights the importance of performing skin self exams,” said Neelam Khan, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist in Washington, D.C. who diagnosed Ingham’s melanoma. “Early detection through regular skin checks can catch skin cancer when it’s most treatable. I advise my patients to routinely inspect their skin for any new or changing spots, because the patients who do so are much more likely to identify something changing on their skin than someone who isn’t regularly checking themselves.”
A skin self-exam involves looking at all the spots on your body, including moles, freckles, and age spots. Skin cancer can appear anywhere on your skin, even in less obvious areas like your palms, soles, mouth, eyes, genitalia, and buttocks, making it one of the few cancers you can typically see on your body. For those with darker skin tones, skin cancer is more likely to develop in areas not commonly exposed to the sun, such as under or around the nails, palms, or soles. During a skin self-exam, Dr. Khan says you should check your skin and nails for the ABCDEs of melanoma:
• A stands for ASYMMETRY. One half of the spot is unlike the other half.
• B stands for BORDER. The spot has an irregular, scalloped, or poorly defined border.
• C stands for COLOR. The spot has varying colors from one area to the next, such as shades of tan, brown or black, or areas of white, red, or blue.
• D stands for DIAMETER. While melanomas are usually greater than 6 mm, or about the size of a pencil eraser, when diagnosed, they can be smaller.
• E stands for EVOLVING. The spot looks different from the rest or is changing in size, shape, or color.
Once you know the warning signs for skin cancer, Dr. Khan recommends following these tips to check your skin:
Examine your body front and back in a full-length mirror, then look at the right and left sides with your arm raised.
Bend your elbows and look carefully at your forearms, underarms, fingernails, and palms of your hands.
Look at the backs of your legs and feet, the spaces between your toes, your toenails, and the soles of your feet.
Examine the back of your neck and scalp with a hand mirror. Part your hair for a closer look at your scalp.
Check your back and buttocks with a band mirror.Thankfully, Ingham’s melanoma was removed and he’s cancer-free. Now, he educates others about the importance of regular skin checks and early detection. “This incident was a powerful lesson I share with friends and loved ones,” Ingham said. “Witnessing the impact of early detection frrsthand, many of my friends were inspired to schedule their own skin checks, recognizing the importance of proacuve health care. It’s a ripple effect I’m grateful to be a part of, knowing that by sharing my story, I may have played a role in potentially saving lives.” To protect yourself from the sun and reduce your risk of skin cancer, the AAD recommends that everyone seek shade, especially when the sun’s rays are strongest between l O a.m. and 2 p.m.; wear sun-protective clothing such as a lightweight long-sleeved shirt, pants, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses with UV protection, when possible; and apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to all skin not covered by clothing. “By taking these precautions, you can reduce the risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage while enjoying the holiday festivities,” said Dr. Khan. “If you notice anything new or unusual on your skin, or anything changing, itching or bleeding, see a board-certified dermatologist.” To find a board-certified dermatologist in your area, visit aad.org/findaderm. ###
If you have light spots and patches on your skin, getting an accurate diagnosis is important. White spots and patches develop for many reasons.
You might have vitiligo. You could also have another condition like tinea versicolor. The white spots may also be caused by a skin injury. A board-certified dermatologist can give you an accurate diagnosis.
How do dermatologists diagnose vitiligo?
A board-certified dermatologist diagnoses vitiligo by reviewing your medical history and examining your skin.
To get a good look at your skin, your dermatologist may use a Wood’s lamp. This specialized lamp allows a dermatologist to clearly see areas of vitiligo.
If your dermatologist finds that you have vitiligo, blood tests may be recommended. Vitiligo is an autoimmune disease. This means that your immune system is attacking healthy cells in your body that give your skin its color.
People who have vitiligo have a higher risk of developing some other autoimmune diseases like thyroid disease. Blood tests can find autoimmune diseases like thyroid disease.
After giving you the diagnosis, your dermatologist will also ask whether you want to treat the vitiligo. Some people choose not to. Model Winnie Harlow, who has vitiligo, lets the world see her skin as it is.
Rather than get medical treatment, some people prefer to cover up the light patches with makeup, self-tanner, or skin dye.
If you want to treat vitiligo, dermatologists have treatments that can restore lost skin color.
How do dermatologists treat vitiligo?
When treating vitiligo, board-certified dermatologists create a treatment plan with these goals in mind:
Restore lost skin color.
Stop the patches and spots from getting bigger.
Prevent new spots from appearing.
There is no one best treatment for vitiligo. Before creating a treatment plan, a dermatologist thinks about what is best for each patient. To do this, your dermatologist considers your age, overall health, and the effects the disease has on your life. The type of vitiligo, where it appears on the body, and how it’s progressing also play important roles.
If you decide to treat vitiligo, it’s important to know the following:
Treatment works slowly. When treatment works, your natural skin color returns a little at a time.
Vitiligo can be stubborn. Your dermatologist will begin with the gentlest treatment that’s suitable for you. To get desirable results, your dermatologist may add another treatment or change your treatment.
Treatment cannot cure vitiligo. While researchers are looking for a cure, treatment cannot currently cure this disease. Treatment can help restore lost skin color, but the color (repigmentation) may fade over time. To keep their results, many patients have maintenance treatments.
Here are the treatments that dermatologists consider for their patients who have vitiligo.
Medication you apply to your skin
Purpose: Restore lost skin color
Several prescription medications that you apply to your skin are used to treat vitiligo. You apply these medications at home. Here’s the lowdown on the medications that dermatologists may prescribe:
Corticosteroids: These prescription medications work best for people who recently developed vitiligo.Due to possible side effects, dermatologists prescribe a corticosteroid for a limited time. When used short-term, as directed by your dermatologist, this medication is often effective for both children and adults.
Tacrolimus ointment or pimecrolimus cream: One advantage of these medications is that they can be used for a longer time than corticosteroids. They work best to restore color to skin on the head or neck.One of the most common side effects is feeling a burning sensation when you apply this medication. Both medications are a possible treatment option for children and adults.
Calcipotriene: While not effective when used alone, it can be effective when used with a corticosteroid. Applying both medications as directed can increase the amount of re-pigmentation you see and shorten the time it takes to get results. Dermatologists prescribe calcipotriene for children and adults.
JAK inhibitor: This is a newer type of medication. Ruxolitinib (Opzelura™) is the only medication approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to restore lost skin color in people who have vitiligo.This JAK inhibitor is a cream that’s approved to treat people 12 years of age and older who have non-segmental vitiligo. It’s prescribed to treat a small area of the body.
Light therapy
Purpose: Restore lost skin color
Light therapy exposes your skin to a type of ultraviolet (UV) light that can restore your natural skin color. If a large area of your body needs treatment, your dermatologist may prescribe a type of light therapy called phototherapy.
During phototherapy, you expose your skin to UV light for a specific amount of time. A dermatologist calculates the right amount of time for each patient. The UV light comes from a light box, which you stand in.
If you need treatment targeted to a certain part of your body, your dermatologist may prescribe laser therapy. A laser can target a small section of skin, so there’s less effect on skin that doesn’t need treatment.
Light therapy is most effective at restoring color to the face and neck. Like other treatments for vitiligo, the lips, tips of the fingers, and toes are least responsive to treatment with light therapy.
If light therapy is an option for you, you will need a number of treatments.
Light therapy works slowly. To return color to your skin more quickly, your dermatologist may prescribe light therapy along with treatment that you apply to your skin.
Medication you take
Purpose: Slow down the development of new spots and patches, restore skin color
Vitiligo tends to spread slowly. Occasionally, it spreads quickly. If you’re seeing new patches and spots on your skin frequently, your dermatologist may prescribe a medication like prednisone. This is corticosteroid medication that can help slow down the disease. It comes in pill form.
Surgery
Purpose: Restore skin color
If other treatments fail to restore skin color, surgery may be an option. Two types of surgery are used to treat vitiligo:
Skin graft: Your dermatologic surgeon removes some healthy, pigmented skin and transplants it to one or more areas with vitiligo.
Cell transplant: During this type of surgery, your dermatologic surgeon removes some healthy, pigmented skin. Instead of grafting the skin into an area with vitiligo, the surgeon takes cells from the skin that was removed. These cells are then placed into skin with vitiligo. Most re-pigmentation from these cells happens within six months of surgery. However, dermatologists have seen patients continue to re-pigment for up to 12 months.
Surgery may be an option for people of all skin tones and for people who have different types of vitiligo. However, it’s not an option for everyone.
Surgery usually isn’t recommended for people who have active vitiligo, which means that over the last 12 months new spots have developed or existing spots have grown.
Surgery also may not be an option for people who develop raised scars. Surgery could cause scarring.
Purpose: Even out your skin tone right away
Getting results from treatment takes time. To help you even out your skin tone until you get results, your dermatologist may recommend using one of these products.
Camouflage makeup
Self-tanner
Skin dyes
These are also an option for patients who decide not to treat vitiligo.
If you’re interested in trying these products, ask your dermatologist for a recommendation. Your dermatologist can recommend a product that will match your skin tone and stay on all day long.
As a rule, self-tanning products are waterproof and give you coverage for 3 to 5 days. Camouflage makeup is lightweight and waterproof, but you need to apply it every day.
To get natural-looking results from these products, you’ll need to learn how to apply them and practice.
Diet and supplements for vitiligo
Purpose: To provide your body with missing nutrients
You may have heard that certain vitamins, minerals, amino acids, or enzymes can restore your natural skin color. Researchers are studying the effects that these may have on vitiligo. More research is needed to know whether any diet or supplements can effectively treat vitiligo.
Depigmentation
Purpose: Remove the remaining color from your skin
Depigmentation is rarely used. It’s only an option for patients who have lost most of their natural skin color and don’t want to continue with treatment meant to restore color to their skin.
Depigmentation removes the remaining natural color, creating an even skin tone. To remove the remaining color from their skin, a patient applies a cream to the areas of skin that still have pigment. The cream gradually removes the remaining color. It can take one to four years to get rid of the remaining pigment.
If you’re considering this approach, talk with a board-certified dermatologist about the pros and cons of depigmentation. This treatment is considered permanent.
How do dermatologists treat vitiligo in children?
Vitiligo can begin at any early age. This makes treatment options for children important.
Many treatments described above are used to treat children. Before creating a treatment plan for your child, your dermatologist thinks about the child’s age, how vitiligo is spreading, other medical conditions your child has, and many other considerations.
Maintenance therapy often required to keep treatment results
While treatment can restore lost skin color, sometimes, the results are temporary. Within a year of ending treatment, it’s estimated that about 40% of patients see some color loss.
Maintenance therapy helps to prevent this color loss. To maintain results, dermatologists often prescribe a medication that you apply to your skin a few times per week.
When medication is used along with self-care, many patients keep the color that treatment added to their skin.
To see the self-care that dermatologists recommend for their patients who have vitiligo, go to Vitiligo: Self-care.
Images
Image 1: Used with permission of the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2020 Oct;83(4):e283-4.
Image 2: Used with permission of the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. (J Am Acad Dermatol 2014;71:935-40.)
Image 3: Used with permission of the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2012 May;66(5):785-93.
References
Alikhan A, Felsten LM, et al. “Vitiligo: A comprehensive overview Part I. Introduction, epidemiology, quality of life, diagnosis, differential diagnosis, associations, histopathology, etiology, and work-up.” J Am Acad Dermatol. 2011 Sep;65(3):473-91.
Bae JM, Lee RW. “365-nm narrowband Wood’s lamp for vitiligo and hypopigmentation disorders.” J Am Acad Dermatol. 2020 Oct;83(4):e283-4.
Cavalié M, Ezzedine K, et al. “Maintenance therapy of adult vitiligo with 0.1% tacrolimus ointment: a randomized, double blind, placebo-controlled study.” J Invest Dermatol. 2015 Apr;135(4):970-4.
Evans A. ““The potential FDA approval of multiple JAK inhibitors could offer new treatment options for dermatology patients.” Dermatol World. 2021 May;21(5):30-6.
Felsten LM, Alikhan A, et al. “Vitiligo: A comprehensive overview Part II: Treatment options and approach to treatment.” J Am Acad Dermatol. 2011 Sep;65(3):493-514.
Grimes PE. “Vitiligo.” In: Taylor and Kelly’s Dermatology for Skin of Color. (second edition). McGraw Hill, USA, 2016:341-8.
Nahhas AF, Braunberger TL, et al. “Update on the Management of Vitiligo.” Skin Therapy Lett. 2019 May;24(3):1-6.
Rodrigues M, Ezzedine K, et al. “Vitiligo Working Group. New discoveries in the pathogenesis and classification of vitiligo.” J Am Acad Dermatol. 2017 Jul;77(1):1-13.
Rosmarin D, Passeron T, et al. “TRuE-V Study Group. Two phase 3, randomized, controlled trials of ruxolitinib cream for vitiligo.” N Engl J Med. 2022 Oct 20;387(16):1445-55.
Silpa-Archa N, Griffith JL, et al. “Long-term follow-up of patients undergoing autologous noncultured melanocyte-keratinocyte transplantation for vitiligo and other leukodermas.” J Am Acad Dermatol. 2017 Aug;77(2):318-27.
U.S. Food and Drug Administration. “FDA approves topical treatment addressing repigmentation in vitiligo in patients aged 12 and older.” Page last updated 7/19/2022. Last accessed 5/11/2023.
Board-certified dermatologist shares 5 tips for Skin Cancer Awareness Month
ROSEMONT, Ill. (May 21, 2024) — Sunburns can be painful and damaging to your skin, while also increasing your risk of skin cancer, the most common cancer in the United States and one of the most preventable. A new survey by the American Academy of Dermatology shows that one in three Americans (36%) got a sunburn in 2023, a significant increase over the previous year.
“No matter your skin tone, you can get a sunburn if you are outside without proper protection,” said Veena Vanchinathan, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist in Morgan Hill, Calif. “It’s important to practice safe sun because both tanning and sunburning harms your skin. If you repeatedly experience sunburns, your skin will become more damaged over time.”
Prevention is key. Protect your skin from the sun to prevent sunburn and reduce your risk of skin cancer and premature skin aging. Seek shade, and wear sun-protective clothing — such as long sleeves, pants, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses with UV protection. Apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to all skin not covered by clothing.
The same AAD survey showed that fewer than 34% of Americans use sunscreen, with only one in three reapplying it every two hours, which is the recommended timeframe. As many as 27% of people who do use sunscreen tend not to reapply sunscreen at all. Since sunscreen’s protective qualities wear off over time and sweat and water can wash it off the skin, it’s important to reapply sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays and reduce your risk of sunburn.
If you do get a sunburn, the first step to treating it is to get indoors and out of the sun. Once indoors, Dr. Vanchinathan and the AAD recommend following these tips to help relieve your sunburn:
Take cool baths or showers to help relieve any pain. Afterward, gently pat your skin dry.
Soothe your sunburn by applying moisturizer containing aloe vera or soy while your skin is still damp and whenever you feel discomfort. You can also apply calamine lotion, place a cool, damp washcloth on the affected area, or take a colloidal oatmeal bath.
Take aspirin or ibuprofen to help reduce swelling and discomfort from your sunburn.
Drink extra water, as having a sunburn can make you dehydrated.
Do not pop sunburn blisters. A blister means you have a second-degree sunburn. Allowing blisters to heal — instead of popping them — protects you from infection. Keep blisters clean and apply petroleum jelly to protect them while they heal.
If your sunburn gets worse, partner with the sun protection expert, a board-certified dermatologist. Signs of a worsening sunburn that requires medical attention include high fever, chills, or nausea, or pus or swelling of the skin, a potential sign of a skin infection.
“While a sunburn is often treatable at home, symptoms occasionally require additional attention by a board-certified dermatologist,” said Dr. Vanchinathan. “Not only are we able to help make you more comfortable, it’s also a great time for your dermatologist to check you for signs of skin cancer.”
These tips are demonstrated in “How to treat a sunburn: Dermatologist tips,” a video posted to the AAD website and YouTube channel. This video is part of the AAD’s “Your Dermatologist Knows” series, which offers tips people can use to properly care for their skin, hair, and nails.
To find a board-certified dermatologist in your area, visit aad.org/findaderm.
Sunscreen is a vital tool in the fight against skin cancer, including melanoma, the most serious form. Research suggests that regular sunscreen use—when used correctly—may reduce the risk of melanoma. This is why dermatologists advise their patients that the best sunscreen is the one they’ll wear. For many families, especially those with young children, this often includes stick and spray sunscreens in addition to lotions.
Sticks are easy for under the eyes and the backs of the hands, while spray sunscreens are often easier to apply on children. However, it’s important to take precautions when using stick and spray sunscreens to ensure the best protection for you and your family.
As with lotion sunscreens, dermatologists recommend looking for sticks and sprays that are broad-spectrum, water-resistant, and have an SPF of 30 or higher. Broad spectrum” means that the sunscreen will protect against both types of harmful ultraviolet rays that can cause skin cancer — not just against the ones that cause sunburn.
For the best protection with stick sunscreen, dermatologists recommend the following tips:
For each area of skin you’re protecting, apply four passes back and forth. Doing this will help ensure that you’re using enough sunscreen to be protected.
Rub it in afterwards for an even layer of coverage.
To safely and adequately use spray sunscreen, dermatologists recommend these tips:
Hold the nozzle close to your skin and spray generously. Most adults need at least one ounce of sunscreen — about enough to fill a shot glass — to fully cover the body. Since it can be difficult to determine how much spray sunscreen is enough, dermatologists recommend spraying until your skin glistens. It’s also important to remember that a typical 6-ounce bottle of spray sunscreen contains six applications.
Rub it in thoroughly. To ensure that you didn’t miss any spots and that you have an even layer of coverage, rub the sunscreen in after spraying.
Avoid inhaling spray sunscreen. Current U.S. Food and Drug Administration regulations do not pertain to spray sunscreens, although the agency continues to evaluate these products to ensure safety and effectiveness. Do not inhale spray sunscreen, and never spray sunscreen around or near your face or mouth. Instead, spray the sunscreen on your hands first and then apply it to your face.
Avoid using spray sunscreen on windy days. These conditions make it more difficult to apply the sunscreen and easier to accidentally inhale it.
Never apply spray sunscreen near heat or open flame, or while smoking. Although sunscreen isn’t usually flammable, it can be when used in aerosol form. Never spray it by a grill, candles or other source of fire, and make sure it is thoroughly rubbed in and dry before approaching any open flames.
Since no sunscreen blocks 100% of the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays, it’s also important to seek shade and wear protective clothing whenever possible, including a long-sleeved shirt, pants, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses with UV protection.
No matter what type of sunscreen you use, make sure you reapply it every two hours when outdoors or immediately after swimming or sweating. If you have questions about which type of sunscreen to use for you and your family, ask a board-certified dermatologist for help.
Do you continue to break out even though you’ve tried plenty of acne treatments? Are you convinced that nothing’s going to work, but given time, the acne will clear on its own?
You don’t have to wait. Board-certified dermatologists are at the forefront of advances in treating acne, so they can determine the most effective treatment plan for you.
Here’s what you can expect when you see a board-certified dermatologist for your acne.
How do dermatologists diagnose acne?
Effective treatment begins with an accurate diagnosis. If you have acne, your dermatologist can diagnose you by looking at the breakouts.
While examining your skin, your dermatologist will notice what types of acne you have and where the breakouts appear on your skin. Different types of acne often require different treatment.
Sometimes what looks like acne isn’t acne: What looks like acne may be another condition. For example, some people mistake hidradenitis suppurativa, also called “acne inversa,” for acne. Treatment for this condition differs from that for acne.
Another condition that can be mistaken for acne is perioral dermatitis. It often causes acne-like breakouts around the mouth or “T-zone” of the face. A skin infection called folliculitis can also be mistaken for acne.
Whether you have acne or another condition, your dermatologist can give you an accurate diagnosis and create a treatment plan tailored to your needs.
How do dermatologists treat acne?
The goals of acne treatment are to:
Clear existing acne
Stop new breakouts
Prevent acne scars
While the goals are the same for each patient, there is no one-size-fits-all acne treatment. The best acne treatment for one patient is not necessarily the best treatment for another patient. Your treatment plan may include one or more of the following.
This type of medication is often included in an acne treatment plan.Your dermatologist may include more than one topical (apply to the skin) medication, as this strategy helps fight the different causes of acne. The topical medications, all approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), that dermatologists may include in an acne treatment plan are:
Retinoid you apply to your skin: This medication works to clear your pores, and can treat blackheads, whiteheads, and some pimples. If you develop dark spots after acne clears, a retinoid can help lighten these spots.
Dermatologists also may recommend a topical retinoid as a maintenance treatment. This type of treatment can keep your skin clear once acne is under control.
The retinoids used to treat acne are:
Non-prescription retinoid
Adapalene (You’ll find acne treatment that contains this retinoid online and in stores.)
Tretinoin and benzoyl peroxide (Brand name: Twyneo)
Trifarotene (Brand name: Aklief)
Benzoyl peroxide: This active ingredient reduces acne-causing bacteria on your skin. It’s most effective when used along with another acne treatment that works on the other causes of acne. For this reason, your dermatologist may prescribe a medication that contains benzoyl peroxide and another acne medication like a retinoid or an antibiotic.
Benzoyl peroxide is also the active ingredient in plenty of acne-fighting products that you’ll find online and in stores. They come in many forms from cleansing bars and washes to gels and creams.
You may have seen benzoyl peroxide in the news. In March 2024, a petition was filed with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
This petition expresses concerns that when acne products containing benzoyl peroxide are exposed to higher temperatures, the products may break down into benzene, a cancer-causing substance. While this is concerning, most people do not store their personal care products in the conditions that were tested. More research is needed to know whether benzoyl peroxide breaks down into benzene when products are kept at room temperature.
If you are concerned about using an acne product that contains benzoyl peroxide, choose a product with another acne-fighting ingredient (topical retinoid, salicylic acid, or azelaic acid) or speak with a board-certified dermatologist.
Antibiotic you apply to your skin: This medication reduces both the inflammation that causes acne and acne-causing bacteria on the skin.
When a topical antibiotic is part of your treatment plan, you’ll use it along with another acne medication. This reduces the risk of developing antibiotic resistance, which occurs when medications created to kill a type of bacteria no longer work.
To reduce the risk of antibiotic resistance and increase how well each medication works, some acne treatments contain a topical antibiotic and another acne medication like benzoyl peroxide or a retinoid. This helps you get the right dose of each medication.
If the antibiotic that would be best for you isn’t available in a combination medication, your dermatologist will give you a prescription for a topical antibiotic and include another acne medication like benzoyl peroxide in your treatment plan. It’s important to use all medications as directed.
Clascoterone: This is the first FDA-approved medication that can treat the hormonal causes of acne in both males and females. It’s approved to treat moderate to severe acne in people 12 years of age or older. You apply this medication twice a day.
Brand name: Winlevi
Salicylic acid: Used for years to treat acne, salicylic acid opens clogged pores and exfoliates the skin. It’s effective for treating whiteheads and pimples. You’ll find salicylic acid available in different strengths and in different forms, including cleansers and moisturizers.
Non-prescription medication: Be sure to use the product that your dermatologist recommends.
Azelaic acid: This acne treatment opens clogged pores and helps keep them open, works on the bacteria that cause acne, and reduces inflammation due to acne. This makes it an effective treatment for different types of acne.
Azelaic acid can also treat the dark spots that appear when acne clears.
Brand names: Azelex, Finevin
Medication that works throughout your body
If you have moderate-to-severe acne, you may need stronger medication, so your dermatologist may prescribe one of the following:
Antibiotic: For years, dermatologists have prescribed an oral (take by mouth) antibiotic for acne. This medication can effectively treat moderate-to-severe pimples but not nodular acne.
Today, dermatologists prescribe an antibiotic for the shortest time, usually several months, needed to treat acne. They also include another medication like benzoyl peroxide in an acne treatment plan.
Dermatologists have expertise in using antibiotics to treat acne. They know which antibiotic to prescribe for each type of acne and how long to prescribe it. The FDA has approved three antibiotics to treat acne. All are approved to treat acne in patients nine years of age and older.
FDA-approved antibiotics to treat acne: Doxycycline, minocycline, sarecycline
Birth control pills: A type of birth control pill called a combined oral contraceptive can be an effective acne treatment. Your dermatologist can tell you whether a combined oral contraceptive might be right for you, and if so, which one is recommended.
Before your dermatologist prescribes a birth control pill, they will ask you questions about your health. If you smoke, have heart disease, are pregnant, or plan to become pregnant, tell your dermatologist.
To get your acne under control, your dermatologist may prescribe other medication along with the pill.
The following combined oral contraceptives are FDA approved to treat acne:
Brand names: Beyaz, Estrostep, Ortho Tri-Cyclen, Yaz
Spironolactone: For women who have stubborn hormonal acne, this medication can effectively treat acne on the face, chest, and back. Signs of hormonal acne include having stubborn acne on your lower face, including your chin and jawline. Another sign is that you predictably breakout during your period.
This medication may be an option when other treatments fail to clear acne.
Your dermatologist may prescribe spironolactone and a birth control pill. Taking both medications may deliver the best results. It’s also essential that women who can become pregnant use birth control. Spironolactone can cause severe birth defects.
Spironolactone is generally only a treatment for women. In men, possible side effects include developing breasts and erectile dysfunction.
Brand names: Aldactone, CaroSpir
Isotretinoin: You may have heard people refer to this medication as Accutane. That’s a brand name of isotretinoin that’s no longer available. Dermatologists prescribe isotretinoin to treat nodular acne that hasn’t responded to other acne treatments. Nodular acne is the most severe type of acne and can cause scarring.
For more information, including the benefits and risks, visit Isotretinoin.
To help you get the best possible results, your dermatologist may include a medical procedure in your treatment plan. Dermatologists perform these procedures during an office visit. Procedures that can help treat acne are:
Corticosteroid injection: To relieve the swelling and pain caused by a large, painful acne breakout, your dermatologist may inject a medication called a corticosteroid into an acne breakout. Treating acne this way can also reduce the patient’s risk of developing an acne scar.
While effective, dermatologists reserve this procedure for treating a few severe acne breakouts. Using it more than a few times isn’t recommended.
Chemical peel: When applied to acne, a chemical peel helps remove dead skin cells that are clogging your pores and excess oil. This can help clear acne.
Acne surgery: During this procedure, also called acne extraction, your dermatologist physically removes acne breakouts.
To avoid scarring and infection, this surgery should only be performed by a board-certified doctor who is trained and skilled in performing acne surgery. Dermatologists have this expertise.
Your dermatologist knows acne
With a dermatologist’s help, you don’t need to wait for acne to clear on its own. Your dermatologist knows how to safely combine acne treatments to clear acne and keep it from coming back. If you need a dermatologist who can help you with acne, go to Find a Dermatologist.
Image
Getty Images
References
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). “About antimicrobial resistance.” Last reviewed 10/5/2022. Last accessed 1/30/2024.
Charny JW, Choi JK, et al. “Spironolactone for the treatment of acne in women, a retrospective study of 110 patients.” Int J Womens Dermatol. 2017 Mar 13;3(2):111-5.
Eichenfield LF, Hebert AA, et al. “Long-term safety and efficacy of twice-daily topical clascoterone cream 1% in patients greater than or equal to 12 years of age with acne vulgaris.” J Drugs Dermatol. 2023 Aug 1;22(8):810-6.
Evans A. “Acne: The drought is over.” Derm World 2021;31(2):16-22.
Fox L, Csongradi C, et al. “Treatment modalities for acne.” Molecules. 2016 Aug 13;21(8):1063.
Lazic Mosler E, Leitner C, et al. “Topical antibiotics for acne.” Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2018 Jan 23;2018(1):CD012263.
Măgerușan ȘE, Hancu G, et al. “A comprehensive bibliographic review concerning the efficacy of organic acids for chemical peels treating acne vulgaris.” Molecules. 2023 Oct 22;28(20):7219.
Merck Manual (Consumer version). “Drug information.” Last accessed 2/1/2024.
Reynolds RV, Yeung H, et al. “Guidelines of care for the management of acne vulgaris.” J Am Acad Dermatol. Articles in press. Published online: January 30, 2024.
Sakhiya J, Sakhiya D, et al. “Intralesional agents in dermatology: Pros and cons.” J Cutan Aesthet Surg. 2021 Jul-Sep;14(3):285-95.
Written by:
Paula Ludmann, MS
Reviewed by:
Elaine T. Kaye, MD, FAAD
Ata Moshiri, MD, MPH, FAAD
J. Klint Peebles, MD, FAAD
Last updated: 3/19/24
7 Rosacea skin care tips
Board-certified dermatologist weighs in
ROSEMONT, Ill. (Apr. 9, 2024) — Rosacea is a common skin condition that affects at least 14 million U.S. adults and commonly appears as a tendency to blush or flush more easily than others. While treatable, symptoms, such as skin thickening and eye problems, can often be uncomfortable and affect people’s quality of life.
“With rosacea, there can be many triggers that will worsen symptoms or cause a flare-up,” said Lycia Thornburg, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist in Rapid City, S.D. “It’s possible to control your rosacea and even prevent it from getting worse by recognizing and avoiding triggers, ranging from alcohol to sunlight to the skin care products you use.”
Signs and symptoms of rosacea include:
Flushing and redness in the center of the face
Swollen skin
Skin may be very sensitive, sting, or burn
Visible broken blood vessels
Acne-like breakouts, usually where the skin is very red, that tend to come and go
Oily skin
To help manage your rosacea symptoms, Dr. Thornburg and the AAD recommend following these seven tips to update your skin care routine:
Choose rosacea-friendly products. Look for products that say they are noncomedogenic (non-pore clogging) and are made for sensitive skin. Many ingredients can irritate sensitive skin and cause a flare-up. Avoid using products with these ingredients on your face: alcohol; camphor; fragrance; glycolic acid; lactic acid; menthol; sodium laurel sulfate; and urea.
Test skin care products. If you have sensitive skin, test skin care products before using them to reduce your risk of a rosacea flare-up. Apply the product to a quarter-sized patch of skin on the inside of your arm every day for 7-10 days. If your skin is clear after that time, go ahead and use the product.
Cleanse. You might be tempted to skip cleansing if your skin feels irritated, but cleansing up to twice a day will help remove oil and dirt that can make irritation worse. Gently apply your mild cleanser in a circular motion with your fingertips, rinsing off all the cleanser when you’re done — if it stays on your skin, it can cause irritation. Then, gently pat your face dry with a clean towel.
Moisturize every day. Moisturize every day after cleansing, even if your skin feels oily. Moisturizing helps hydrate your skin to reduce irritation and make it feel more comfortable.
Protect from the sun. Seek shade and wear sun-protective clothing, like a wide-brimmed hat or sunglasses with UV protection. Apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to all skin not covered by clothing. Look for a sunscreen that contains zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, or both.
Be gentle. Avoid rubbing or scrubbing your face, or using washcloths, facial sponges, or exfoliators as anything that irritates your skin can make rosacea worse.
Use makeup if desired. A yellow-tinted concealer can mask discoloration on skin tones ranging from light to dark. A green-tinted concealer can camouflage redness. Keep in mind that some makeup can irritate your sensitive skin. That’s why dermatologists often recommend water-based or powder makeup, which usually doesn’t irritate rosacea.
While rosacea is a common skin condition, there are others that have similar symptoms, including facial reddening. To determine whether you have rosacea, find a treatment that works best for you, and learn how to avoid triggers, make an appointment with a board-certified dermatologist.
“If you are unable to address your symptoms by making changes to skin care, a dermatologist will be able to develop a personalized treatment plan,” said Dr. Thornburg. “There are many factors to consider when treating rosacea, including the possibility that it might not be rosacea.”
These tips are demonstrated in “7 rosacea skin care tips,” a video posted to the AAD website and YouTube channel. This video is part of the AAD’s “Your Dermatologist Knows” series, which offers tips people can use to properly care for their skin, hair, and nails.
To find a board-certified dermatologist in your area, visit aad.org/findaderm.
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12 NAIL CHANGES A DERMATOLOGIST SHOULD EXAMINE
Have you noticed a change to any of your nails lately? A change in color, texture, or shape can be harmless, but it can also be a sign of disease. If you notice any of the following changes to a fingernail or toenail, it’s time to see a board-certified dermatologist.
Medical name: Acral lentiginous melanoma
Dark streak If a fingernail or toenail has a new or changing dark streak, it’s time to see a dermatologist for a skin cancer check. That dark streak could be melanoma, the most serious type of skin cancer.
Not every dark streak is a melanoma, but it’s always good to have a dermatologist examine one. Caught early and treated, that may be the only treatment you need.
Allowed to grow, treatment becomes more difficult.
Nail lifting up If a nail starts to lift up so that it’s no longer completely attached, you’ll likely see white discoloration, as shown here. When a nail lifts up, the cause is often:
A fungal infectionInjury form cleaning under your nails with a sharp object
Injury form cleaning under your nails with a sharp object
A dermatologist should examine any nail that’s lifting up. You may need treatment to clear an infection. A dermatologist can also give you some tips that may help the new nail grow out normally.
If you have redness and swelling around a nail, you may have an infection. When diagnosed early, you can often treat an infection with soaks and antibiotics. If an open sore forms, you’ll need more extensive treatment.
Pitted nails If you have dents in your nails that look like they were made by an icepick, this could be a sign that you have a disease that affects your entire body.
Seeing a board-certified dermatologist for a diagnosis is important. Dermatologists are the specialists who diagnose and treat these diseases. Treatment can help you feel more comfortable and prevent the disease from worsening.
Yellow nails Wearing red nail polish without a base coat or smoking can turn your nails yellow. If your nails turn yellow, thicken, and seem to stop growing, it could be a sign of something going on inside your body.
Lung disease and rheumatoid arthritis can cause yellow nails. You may also have a serious nail infection, which requires treatment.
Deep grooves (or gaps) Lines that run the length of a nail are common and usually nothing to worry about. If you see deep grooves that run the width of your nail like the ones shown in this picture, it means that something slowed (or stopped) your nails from growing for a while.
When something causes your nail(s) to completely stop growing for a while, you may see a gap. If this happens, you’ll have a place on your nail(s) that’s missing nail. The medical name for this condition is onychomadesis (on-ah-coe-ma-dee-sis).
A fever, injury, chemotherapy, or major stress can cause your nails to grow slowly or stop growing.
If you cannot think of what could may have caused your nails to grow slowly or stop growing, see your dermatologist or primary care doctor. Once you find and get rid of the cause, nails often start growing normally.
8.Medical name: OnychogryphosisRam’s horn nails This happens when the nails thicken and overgrow. Some people get Ram’s horns because the condition runs in the family.
If you have a disease, such as psoriasis, ichthyosis, or circulation problems, you may also develop Ram’s horn nails.
Cutting and treating these nails requires help from a podiatrist or dermatologist. •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
9. Medical name: Koilonychia
Thin, spoon-shaped nails If you have thin fingernails that dip down in the middle and look like spoons, you may not be getting enough iron. People develop an iron deficiency for many reasons, including:
Lack of proper nutrition
A health problem with their stomach or intestines
Sensitivity to gluetn (celiac disease)
High Altitude
Getting a proper diagnosis and treatment can help you feel better.
Washboard nails If you have grooves and ridges in the center of your thumb that look like the ones shown in this picture, you may have developed a habit of picking at (or pushing back) the cuticles on your thumbnails. Many people are unaware that they do this.
A dermatologist may be able to help you break the habit, allowing healthy nails to grow out.
Curved nails The curving can begin so gradually that many people are unaware it’s happening. As the nails continue to curve downward, fingertips often swell and the nails start to feel spongy when pressed on.
If you notice your fingernails start to curve, it’s time to see a board-certified dermatologist. Curved nails can be a harmless trait, which runs in the family. Curved nails can also be a sign that you have a disease in the:
A disease inside your body can cause your nails to change color. Certain color changes can be a warning sign of a specific disease, as the following table shows.
Seeing a change to your nails or the half-moons doesn’t always mean that you have a disease.
Still, it’s important to see a board-certified dermatologist if you notice any changes. Board-certified dermatologists specialize in diagnosing and treating the skin, hair, and nails. They have the expertise to tell you whether the change is harmless or requires medical testing.
Images 4, 5, 7, 9, 10, and 11 used with permission of the American Academy of Dermatology National Library of Dermatologic Teaching Slides.
Images 3, 12: Getty Images
Images from the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology
Image 2: J Am Acad Dermatol. 2014;70(4):748-62.
Image 6: J Am Acad Dermatol. 2007;57:1-27.
Image 8: J Am Acad Dermatol. 2015;73:849-55.
References Braswell MA, Daniel CR, et al. “Beau lines, onychomadesis, and retronychia: A unifying hypothesis.” J Am Acad Dermatol2015; 73:849-55.
Fawcett RS, Hart TM, et al. “Nail abnormalities: Clues to systemic disease.” Am Fam Physician. 2004;69(6):1417-24.
Kiaravuthisan MM, Sasseville D, et al. Psoriasis of the nail: Anatomy, pathology, clinical presentation, and a review of the literature on therapy.” J Am Acad Dermatol 2007;57:1-27.
Kumar V, Aggarwal S, et al. “Nailing the diagnosis: Koilonychia.” Perm J. 2012;16(3): 65.
Ring DS. “Inexpensive solution for habit-tic deformity.” Arch Dermatol. 2010;146(11):1222-3.
DIABETES: 10 WARNING SIGNS THAT CAN APPEAR ON YOUR SKIN
Diabetes can affect many parts of your body, including your skin. When diabetes affects the skin, it could mean that:
You have undiagnosed diabetes or pre-diabetes.
Your treatment for diabetes needs to be adjusted.
It’s time to talk with your doctor if you notice any of these warning signs on your skin.
1. Shin spots
This skin condition is common in people who have diabetes. The medical name for shin spots is diabetic dermopathy. You may also hear people refer to this condition as spotted leg syndrome.
When this condition begins, you usually see round or oval spots, which often develop on the shins. The spots may be brown or reddish brown in color.
Early on, these spots often feel scaly. As they flatten out, they can cause small dents in the skin.
Unlike age spots, these spots often start to fade after diabetes is well-controlled, usually within 18 to 24 months. Diabetic dermopathy can also stay on the skin indefinitely.
While these spots are harmless, anyone who develops them and hasn’t been diagnosed with diabetes should be tested.
If you have diabetes, tell your doctor about these spots. Some people who have diabetes and shin spots have a higher risk of developing complications from diabetes like neuropathy, which is nerve damage that can lead to weakness, numbness, and pain.
2. Darker area of skin that feels like velvet.
A dark patch (or band) of velvety skin on your neck, armpit, groin, or elsewhere could mean that you have too much insulin in your blood. This is often a sign of pre-diabetes. The medical name for this skin condition is acanthosis nigricans.
3. Hard, thickening skin
If you have diabetes, hard, thick, and swollen-looking skin can develop, even when diabetes is well controlled. The medical name for this condition is scleredema diabeticorum.
Often developing on the upper back, the skin thickens and tightens slowly over months or years. This condition can also occur on the shoulders, neck, or elsewhere, but never on the hands or feet.
4. Open sores and wounds.
Having high blood sugar (glucose) for a long time can lead to poor circulation and nerve damage. You may have developed these if you’ve had uncontrolled (or poorly controlled) diabetes for a long time.
Poor circulation and nerve damage can make it hard for your body to heal wounds. This is especially true on the feet. The open wounds are called diabetic ulcers.
5. Outbreak of small bumps
Uncontrolled diabetes can cause extremely high levels of triglycerides, a type of fat that circulates in the blood. If this happens, you can develop a skin condition called eruptive xanthomatosis.
After the bumps appear, they soon develop a yellowish color in lighter skin tones. If you have a darker skin tone, you may see a grayish color with a yellowish hue beneath. You’ll usually find these bumps on the buttocks, thighs, crooks of the elbows, or knees. They can form anywhere though. No matter where they form, they are usually tender and itchy.
Once the diabetes is well-controlled, the bumps tend to go away.
6. Yellowish, smooth bumps or patch(es) on and around your eyelids.
These bumps and patches develop when you have high levels of fat in your blood, which can be a sign that you have poorly controlled diabetes. The medical name for this condition is xanthelasma.
Regardless of your skin tone, these bumps and patches look yellowish or yellowish orange in color.
7. Infections
Diabetes weakens your immune system, which reduces your body’s ability to fight off harmful germs and increases your risk of developing infections. Fungal infections like oral thrush and yeast infections of the vagina are common.
8. Skin tags
Many people have skin tags, which are harmless growths that can appear anywhere on the skin. Sometimes, skin tags are firmly fixed to the skin. You may also see ones that dangle from a stalk. The medical name for these growths is acrochordons.
While skin tags can develop anywhere on the skin, they are most common on the eyelids, neck, armpit, and groin.
9. Cluster of small bumps or a raised patch
Whether this skin condition is associated with diabetes is controversial. We know that most people who have granuloma annulare do not have diabetes.
Several studies, however, have found this skin condition in patients who have diabetes. One such study found that people with diabetes were most likely to have granuloma annulare over large areas of skin and that the bumps came and went. Another study concluded that people who have granuloma annulare that comes and goes should be tested for diabetes.
10. Yellow, reddish, brown, or purplish patches on your skin
When this condition begins, you’ll often see one or a few reddish-brown spots on your shins if you have a lighter skin tone. People with darker skin tones often see purplish spots. These spots aren’t itchy or painful. The medical name for this condition is necrobiosis lipoidica.
These spots grow slowly, becoming one or more patches that may be yellow, reddish, brown, or purplish. In the center, you may see waxy skin that is thinning, blood vessels, or both.
When to see a dermatologist
Diabetes can cause skin problems. Most of these skin problems are harmless, but even a minor one can become serious if you have diabetes. A board-certified dermatologist can recognize skin problems due to diabetes and help you manage them.
Image 3, 4: Used with permission of the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology:
J Am Acad Dermatol 2007;57:502-8.
J Am Acad Dermatol 2014;71:e99-e101.
Images 5, 10: Getty Images
Image 7: Used with permission of the American Academy of Dermatology National Library of Dermatologic Teaching Slides.
References
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Diabetes and your feet.” Last updated 4/11/2023. Last accessed 11/28/2023.
Cohen Sabban, EN. “Cutaneous manifestations of diabetes mellitus from A to Z.” Focus session presented at: 74th Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Dermatology; March 4-8, 2016; Washington D.C.
Duff M, Demidova O, et al. “Cutaneous manifestations of diabetes mellitus.” Clinical Diabetes. 2015;33:40-8.Lima AL, Illing T, et al. “Cutaneous manifestations of diabetes mellitus: A review.” Am J Clin Dermatol. 2017 Aug;18(4):541-53.
Martín C, Requena L, et al. “Scleredema diabeticorum in a patient with type 2 diabetes mellitus.” Case Rep Endocrinol. 2011;2011:560273.
McKinley-Grant L, Dronavalli S, et al. “Cutaneous manifestations of systemic disease.” In: Taylor and Kelly’s Dermatology for Skin of Color. (second edition). McGraw Hill, USA, 2016:479-85.
Morgan AJ and Schwartz RA. “Diabetic dermopathy: A subtle sign with grave implications.” J Am Acad Dermatol. 2008;58:447-51.
Pereira M, Pinheiro RR, et al. “Scleredema diabeticorum.” Dermatol Reports. 2022 Nov 21;14(4):9477.
Vangara SS, Klingbeil KD, et al. “Severe hypertriglyceridemia presenting as eruptive xanthomatosis.” J Family Med Prim Care. 2018 Jan-Feb;7(1):267-70.
Written by:
Paula Ludmann, MS Reviewed by:
Brendan Camp, MD, FAAD
Amanda Friedrichs, MD, FAAD
William D. James, MD, FAAD
Omolara Olowoyeye, MD, FAAD Last updated: 1/4/24
Following the same skin care routine year-round may not work so well when the humidity drops. Without a change in your skin care, dry air can make fine lines and wrinkles more noticeable. Dry, itchy skin can flake, crack, and even bleed.
To help heal dry skin and prevent its return, dermatologists recommend the following.
Stop baths and showers from worsening dry skin. When the humidity drops or your skin feels dry, be sure to:
Close the bathroom door.
Use warm rather than hot water.
Limit your time in the shower or bath to 5 or 10 minutes.
Wash with a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser.
Apply enough cleanser to remove dirt and oil, avoid using so much that you see a thick lather.
Blot your skin gently dry with a towel.
Slather on the moisturizer immediately after drying your skin.
Baths and showers can worsen dry skin. You can prevent baths and showers from worsening dry skin by following these dermatologists’ tips. Click the image above to download a PDF.
Apply moisturizer immediately after washing. Ointments, creams, and lotions (moisturizers) work by trapping existing moisture in your skin. To trap this much-needed moisture, you need to apply a moisturizer within few minutes of:
Drying off after a shower or bath
Washing your face or hands
Use an ointment or cream rather than a lotion. Ointments and creams are more effective and less irritating than lotions. Look for a cream or ointment that contains one or more of the following ingredients:
Jojoba oil
Dimethicone
Glycerin
Hyaluronic acid
Lactic acid
Lanolin
Mineral oil
Petrolatum
Shea butter
Wear lip balm. Choose a lip balm that feels good on your lips. If your lips sting or tingle after you apply the lip balm, switch to one that does not cause this reaction.
Use only gentle, fragrance-free skin care products. Some skin care products, such as deodorant soaps, are too harsh for dry, sensitive skin. Dermatologists recommend using products labeled “fragrance-free.”
If you see the word “unscented,” the product can contain chemicals that neutralize or hide the odors of other ingredients. These chemicals can irritate dry, sensitive skin.
Wear gloves. Our hands are often the first place we notice dry skin. You can reduce dry, raw skin by putting on gloves before you:
Go outdoors in winter.
Perform tasks that require you to get your hands wet.
Get chemicals, greases, and other substances on your hands.
Choose non-irritating clothes and laundry detergent. When our skin is dry and raw even clothes and laundry detergent can be irritating. To avoid this:
Wear cotton or silk under your clothing made of wool or another material that feels rough.
Use laundry detergent labeled “hypoallergenic.”
Stay warm without cozying up to a fireplace or other heat source. Sitting in front of an open flame or other heat source can dry your skin.
Add moisture to the air. Plug in a humidifier. If you can, check your home heating system to find out if you have a humidifier on the system — and whether it’s working.
When to see a board-certified dermatologistYour skin should start to feel better quickly. If these changes do not bring relief, you may want to see a dermatologist. Very dry skin can require a prescription ointment or cream. Dry skin also can be a sign of a skin condition that needs treatment. A dermatologist can examine your skin and explain what can help reduce your discomfort.
Have a skin, hair, or nail problem?No one understands your skin better than a board-certified dermatologist. Partner with the expert for the best care.
While you’ll find treatment for acne scars that you can use at home, getting the best results often requires in-depth knowledge of the skin and knowing what treatment works best for each type of acne scar. That’s why board-certified dermatologists develop an individualized treatment plan for each patient.
Safe and effective treatment for acne scars begins with a consultation
Treatment is not for everyone. Some people see no need to treat acne scars.
To figure out whether treatment is right for you, it helps to answer the following questions before making an appointment with a board-certified dermatologist for a consultation.
Do I often wish that I could get rid of my acne scars?
Do my scars limit my opportunities to date, get a job, advance my career, or perform well in school?
Am I less outgoing and social now than before I had acne scars?
If you answered “yes” to one or more of these questions, talking with a dermatologist about treatment can be helpful.
Know what you expect from treatment for acne scars
To get the most from your consultation, many people find it helpful to answer the following questions before they meet with their dermatologist. Doing so helps you explain what you expect from treatment.
How do I want to look after treatment? Some treatments can make scars look less noticeable. Others can eliminate wavy skin texture. Be sure to tell your dermatologist what’s important to you.
What can I afford to spend on treatment? Medical insurance does not cover the cost.
How much downtime can I afford? Some treatments require downtime.
How much time will I devote to getting treatment and caring for my skin? Your answer will help determine which treatments will be best for you.
What happens during an acne scar consultation with a dermatologist? During this consultation, your dermatologist will:
Examine your skin, paying close attention to your scars. Effectively treating scars requires knowing the types of acne scars on your skin and where they appear. For example, to get the best results, ice pick scars require different treatment than rolling scars.
Ask you some questions. These questions help your dermatologist understand how the scars affect your life, the results you expect, and more.
How do dermatologists treat acne scars?
If you and your dermatologist decide that treatment is right for you, your dermatologist will create a treatment plan tailored to your needs. Before creating this plan, your dermatologist will consider the type of acne scars you have, how many scars you have, your age and skin tone, your budget, and many other considerations.
If you have acne breakouts, your plan will likely begin with acne treatment. Stopping acne breakouts can reduce inflammation and prevent new acne scars. Treatment for scars typically begins after you have acne under control and are applying acne medication to prevent new breakouts.
When it’s time to treat the scars, your treatment plan may include one or more of the following.
Treatment for depressed (sunk-in) acne scars:
These scars may be treated with a procedure, acne scar surgery, or medication applied to the skin. To give you the best results, your dermatologist may use more than one treatment. For example, your dermatologist may perform acne surgery to lift some sunken scars and then inject a filler to give the treated scars more volume.
Treatment for depressed scars includes the following:
Chemical peel: Applying a chemical peel to the skin helps the body produce more collagen and elastin. When the skin has more of both, depressed acne scars tend to be less noticeable.
Peels are available in strengths ranging from mild to strong. Your dermatologist will determine which strength best meets your needs. Mild and medium peels often require more than one treatment session. For example, if you have a mild peel, you may need 3 to 5 treatments, which are given every 2 to 4 weeks.
Before getting a peel, your dermatologist may give you instructions for pre-peel priming. Patients typically follow pre-peel priming at home for 2 to 4 weeks. It can help you get the best results and reduce possible side effects. Pre-peel priming can include taking an antiviral medication or applying a retinoid.
You’ll also need to protect your skin from the sun before getting a chemical peel. Doing so helps prevent discolored skin from developing after treatment. Be sure to follow all your dermatologist’s pre-peel priming instructions.
Fillers: This treatment adds volume to depressed scars. Fillers can also help your body produce more collagen and elastin to fill in the scars. Dermatologists use different fillers, which last for varying amounts of time. Most fillers give temporary results, ranging from 3 months to 2 years. A filler can also be permanent.
Most fillers require a series of treatments, so you may need more than one office visit for this treatment. To retain your results, you’ll also need touch-up visits. Even with a permanent filler, you may need touch-up treatment as your skin ages.
Laser treatment: Dermatologists use lasers to resurface skin with acne scars. As your skin heals after laser resurfacing, it produces collagen and elastin, which can diminish the appearance of scars. Your dermatologist may also use a laser to contour skin around acne scars, which can also diminish the appearance of scarring.
Some lasers require more treatment sessions than others.
Medication applied to the skin: If you have mild acne scarring, a retinoid or salicylic acid can make scarring less noticeable.
Microneedling: During this procedure, your dermatologist uses tiny needles to puncture the skin with acne scars. Puncturing the skin causes the body to produce new collagen and elastin. Also called “collagen induction therapy,” the new collagen helps diminish acne scars.
Microneedling is safe for all skin tones.
To improve the results that patients see, microneedling is often used along with another treatment like radiofrequency, chemical peeling, or platelet-rich plasma.
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP): Your dermatologist may use this treatment to enhance the results of another treatment like microneedling. PRP involves having a small amount of your blood drawn. This blood is placed into a machine that separates the blood so that your dermatologist can use your platelets.
Your dermatologist will inject your platelets into the treated area. Studies show that using PRP along with another treatment like microneedling can lead to less visible scarring.
Microdermabrasion: This non-invasive treatment gently exfoliates your skin.
While it won’t treat acne scars, dermatologists use it to even out skin tone, which can improve the results you see from another treatment for acne scars.
Radiofrequency: This procedure uses radiofrequency waves to help your skin produce collagen and elastin. When your skin has more of these, acne scars are less noticeable.
A type of radiofrequency called radiofrequency microneedling combines radiofrequency with microneedling, a procedure that punctures your skin with tiny needles. Using both can produce less noticeable acne scars than either radiofrequency or microneedling alone.
Both radiofrequency and radiofrequency microneedling are safe for all skin tones.
Scar surgery: Dermatologists can perform minor surgery to diminish noticeable acne scars. Surgery may involve removing a scar and closing the area with stitches or a skin graft. Sometimes, your dermatologist surgically lifts the scar from the underlying tissue. Once freed, the skin rises, which diminishes the appearance of the scar.
As the skin heals from the surgery, your body produces collagen and elastin that also help make the scar less noticeable.
Another procedure like laser resurfacing or platelet-rich plasma may be used after acne surgery to improve results.
Dermabrasion is a surgical procedure that dermatologists use to deeply exfoliate the skin. This minor surgery helps your body produce new collagen and elastin. Dermabrasion can also smooth out your skin making acne scars less noticeable.
Acne scar surgery is usually performed in a medical office or outpatient treatment center. Patients are given local anesthesia to numb the area, so they don’t feel pain but remain awake.
Treatment for raised acne scars: When treating depressed scars, the goal is to get the body to produce more collagen to fill in the depressed areas. Raised scars develop when the body produces too much collagen, so they require different treatment.
To diminish raised acne scars called hypertrophic scars, your dermatologist may recommend laser treatments, injections of corticosteroids or another medication, or applying a prescription medication to the scar(s).
Dermatologists use lasers to treat raised acne scars called papular scars.
Treatment for keloids scars: To give their patients the best results, dermatologists often recommend treating a keloid with more than one type of treatment. These scars can be difficult to get rid of, and some return after treatment. Using two or more types of treatment often improves results.
Treatment for a keloid can include injecting a corticosteroid or other medication into the scar, laser therapy, keloid surgery, or freezing the keloid. You’ll find more information about these treatments at Keloids scars: Diagnosis and treatment.
After treating acne scars, dermatologists recommend proper skin care. Following these skin care tips can help you see the best results from treatment. To see what dermatologist recommend, go to: Acne scars: How to care for your skin after treatment.
Images
Images 1,2: J Am Acad Dermatol 2019;81:313-24.
Image 3: Getty Images
References
Abdel HR, Shalaby K, et al. “Interventions for acne scars.” Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2016 Apr 3;4(4):CD011946.
Del Rosso J, Harper J, et al. “Acne and rosacea debate.” Presented at: 2023 Fall Clinical Dermatology Conference: October 19-22, 2023; Las Vegas, NV.
Jennings T, McLarney M, et al. “Acne scarring-pathophysiology, diagnosis, prevention and education – Part 1.” J Am Acad Dermatol (2022) [journal pre-press].
Renzi M, McLarney M, et al. “Procedural and surgical treatment modalities for acne scarring – Part 2.” J Am Acad Dermatol(2022), [journal pre-press].
Salameh F, Shumaker PR, et al. “Energy-based devices for the treatment of acne scars: 2022. International consensus recommendations.” Lasers Surg Med. 2022 Jan;54(1):10-26.
Sarah A. Ibrahim, BA. “Poster 26353: Comparative effectiveness of acne scar treatments: A systematic review and network meta-analysis.”J Am Acad Dermatol. 2021;85(3) suppl AB17. Commercial support: None identified.
Soliman YS, Horowitz R, et al. “Update on acne scar treatment.” Cutis. 2018 Jul;102(1):21;25;47;48.
Written by:
Paula Ludmann, MS
Reviewed by:
Kesha Buster, MD, FAAD
Sandy Marchese Johnson, MD, FAAD
Desmond Shipp, MD, FAAD
Last updated: 12/8/23
NOVEMBER IS NATIONAL HEALTHY SKIN MONTH®
What is National Healthy Skin Month?
The AAD launched the first National Healthy Skin Month in November 1997. Since then, it’s become an annual event in which the AAD and dermatologists:
Emphasize the importance of good skin care.
Share tips that can lead to healthier skin, hair, and nails.
Ask Americans to take time to pay attention to their skin and adopt healthy habits to care for their skin, hair, and nails.
Who can participate in National Healthy Skin Month?
Everybody needs good skin care — from newborns to people more than 100 years old. That’s why National Healthy Skin Month is everyone’s awareness month.
To help you keep your skin looking its best, this November, the AAD is spotlighting unsafe skin care trends.
5 unsafe skin care trends to avoid
Board-certified dermatologists are seeing these unsafe trends on social media and elsewhere. Here are five that dermatologists say you should avoid:
Performing cosmetic treatments at home. Dermatologists agree. This skin care trend is one of the most worrisome. People are microneedling their own skin, injecting themselves with fillers, and using lasers to remove their own unwanted hair.“This is something I find really concerning,” says board-certified dermatologist Sara Moghaddam, MD, FAAD. “For example, at-home microneedling, also known as dermarolling, is dangerous due to risk of infections and improper techniques,” she added.Board-certified dermatologist Oyetewa Oyerinde, MD, FAAD says, “[My] patients will see people who document their entire [experience performing a cosmetic procedure] on TikTok or on Instagram. I tell patients, even if their immediate effect looks good to you — and they may be using filters and other things to make it look good — you have no idea if they ended up in the emergency room afterward because of a bad reaction.”Bottomline: So many complications can occur when you perform a cosmetic procedure, like injecting fillers or removing unwanted hair with a laser, at home. Board-certified dermatologists have the expertise and training needed to safely perform cosmetic procedures. They can also tell you whether a procedure is right for you. No procedure is right for everyone.
Trying nasal tanning spray. If you want to look tan, self-tanner that you apply to your skin is a safe way to get that look. Nasal tanning spray is not. For nasal tanning spray to work, you need to first inhale the spray and then spend time in the sun without protecting your skin from the sun.The sun exposure increases your risk of developing skin cancer and signs of premature skin aging like wrinkles and age spots.The active ingredient in nasal tanning spray also isn’t safe. “Nasal tanning spray contains either afamelanotide or bremelanotide (melanotan I or II),” explains board-certified dermatologist Lindsey Zubritsky, MD, FAAD.Dr. Zubritsky adds, “Melanotan isn’t approved or regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and it’s illegal to sell it in many countries, including the United States.”Possible side effects of using nasal tanning spray include suddenly developing a number of new moles and freckles. This product can also cause your moles to change color or darken.Bottomline: If you want to look tan, use a self-tanner that you apply to your skin. Nasal tanning spray is unregulated, which makes it risky. Using this spray also requires you to spend time in the sun without sun protection, which increases your risk of developing skin cancer.
Using hot peppers to make lips fuller. Dr. Oyerinde says, “Hot peppers have also made the rounds on social media as a pantry-ready way to achieve a fuller lip look. I’ve seen people use peppers, like Scotch bonnet or habañero, to get their lips to look bigger temporarily.”“That is potentially very dangerous, because it can cause allergic contact dermatitis, or other rashes that can leave dark spots around the mouth or on the lips that are hard to get rid of,” says Dr. Oyerinde.Bottomline: If you want fuller lips, see a doctor who has experience and training in adding volume to the lips, like a board-certified dermatologist. Your dermatologist knows how to inject FDA-approved dermal fillers safely. When injected by a doctor who has the necessary experience and training, a lip filler has a low risk of causing complications and can give you natural-looking results.
Taking supplements randomly. “The practice of taking supplements for anything and everything is another trend that I think may be doing more harm than good,” says board-certified dermatologist Angelo Landriscina, MD, FAAD. Dr. Landriscina warns, “People are taking them on a whim after seeing social media content, and they start and stop taking them without consulting a physician.”Bottomline: If you think that a supplement could treat a skin, hair, or nail concern, see a board-certified dermatologist. “Ingredients in supplements advertised for skin, hair, and nails have been linked to birth defects, an increase in cancer risk, and even side effects such as acne and hair loss,” says board-certified dermatologist Rajani Katta, MD, FAAD.
Skipping the sunscreen. To use or not to use sunscreen is another topic that’s been trending on social media.Dr. Zubritsky says, “I’ve seen a huge rise in anti-sunscreen sentiment on social media, which is quite concerning. A significant number of people are posting about the harmful effects of sunscreen and claiming that most sunscreens lead to cancer or contain cancer-causing ingredients.”These claims aren’t backed by science. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which regulates sunscreen, says, “Given the recognized public health benefits of sunscreen use, Americans should continue to use sunscreen with other sun protective measures.” This FDA recommendation is based on current scientific evidence, and the science doesn’t show that any sunscreen ingredients currently available in the United States are harmful to human health. That’s why the AAD recommends that people protect their skin while outdoors by:
Seeking shade.
Wearing protective clothing — including a long-sleeved shirt, pants, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses with UV protection.
Applying a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to all skin not covered by clothing.
Bottomline: Science shows that the sun’s harmful rays cause most skin cancers. When it comes to sunscreen, there’s scientific evidence that using sunscreen and other sun protection measures can help to prevent skin cancer.
Your dermatologist knows skin care
Harmful skin care can take a toll on your skin and sometimes your self-esteem. A good way to tell if the advice is trustworthy is to look at who’s giving it. If the advice comes from a board-certified dermatologist, you know it comes from the skin, hair, and nails expert.
You’ll find trustworthy skin care advice from board-certified dermatologists on this website. For daily tips from board-certified dermatologists, follow the AAD on social media, using the links at the bottom of this page.
Image
Getty Images
References
American Academy of Dermatology, “American Academy of Dermatology’s statement on the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine’s report on environmental impact of currently marketed sunscreens and potential human impacts of changes in sunscreen usage.” News release issued 8/9/2022. Last accessed 10/6/2023.
Margosian E. “From slugging to snail mucin: Dermatologists discuss popular social media trends impacting the skin.” Dermatol World. 2023;33(10):24-30.
Splete H. “Are nutritional supplements aimed at skin care helpful, harmful, or simply a placebo for patients?” Dermatol World. 2023;33(7):18-24.
How often do you replace your makeup and sunscreen? If you wait until you’ve used the entire product, keep reading. Dermatologists say that to protect your health, you sometimes need to toss these products before you empty the container.
To find out how long you should keep makeup and sunscreen, we asked two board-certified dermatologists to share their expertise. Here’s the lowdown.
Makeup doesn’t last forever
While it may seem like you can keep using makeup until it’s all gone, the fact is that cosmetics break down over time. With use, germs can build up on the product. Once either happens, your makeup is past its prime. It’s old makeup.
Board-certified dermatologist Cynthia Bailey, MD, FAAD, says, “You cannot trust old makeup to perform the way you expect. Old makeup can also cause skin problems.”
Does makeup have an expiration date?
You probably won’t find an expiration date. However, “on some cosmetics, you’ll see a Period After Opening symbol on the container. It’s the little graphic icon that shows a jar with an open lid and a number next to the letter ‘M.’ The number tells you how many months the product should last after you open it,” says Dr. Bailey.
Dr. Bailey adds, “In the United States, the Period After Opening information isn’t required on cosmetics.” If you don’t see this symbol on a product, dermatologists recommend that you use the following information to figure out how long to keep makeup.
How long does makeup last?
While there are no set rules and you may see slightly different times elsewhere, the following gives you general guidelines to follow, so you know when to throw out makeup. Following these dermatologists’ guidelines can help you protect the health of your skin.
Eye makeup: Using old eye makeup can cause an eye infection like pink eye. Here’s how long you should use the different types of eye makeup.
Brow powder: 2 years
Eyeliner (liquid): 3 months
Eyeliner (pencil sharpened periodically): 2 to 3 years
Eye shadow (liquid): 6 months
Eye shadow (powder): 6 to 9 months
Mascara: 3 months
Foundation, concealer, and blush: When one of these cosmetics is past its prime, you may develop an acne-like breakout, irritated skin, or an infection. Here’s how long you should use these products.
bb cream: 6 months
Blush (cream): 6 months
Concealer: 1 year
Foundation (liquid): 1 year
Powders (mineral makeup, powder blush): 2 to 3 years
Lip makeup: Old lip makeup can irritate your lips or lead to an infection. Here’s how long you should use these products.
Lip balm: 6 months
Lip balm with sunscreen: 6 months, or the expiration date printed on the package
Lip gloss: 6 months
Lip plumper: 6 months
Lipstick and lip liner: 2 years
The lifespan for some cosmetics like mascara may seem short. “Even if you haven’t used all the product, it’s important to toss it as recommended,” cautions board-certified dermatologist Dara Spearman, MD, FAAD.
“The lifespan of mascara is three months for good reason,” Dr. Spearman adds. “A study published in a medical journal reported that staph aureus bacteria are found in mascara after three months of use,” she says. Staph aureus is one of the leading causes of skin and soft-tissue infections.
Signs you should toss makeup
If you don’t remember when you started using a cosmetic, it can be difficult to know when to toss it. And sometimes, we keep makeup for a while before opening it. In these instances, you should look for signs that the makeup has spoiled.
Dr. Spearman offers these guidelines. You should toss products that:
Start to clump like mascara or eyeliner
Change in consistency like a foundation that separates
Crumble or fall apart like powder eyeshadow or blush
Smell bad
Look dry and flaky or runny
Have changed color
Feel different on your skin
5 habits that can help you use makeup for as long as recommended
How you store and use your cosmetics also affect how long you should keep them. To use your makeup for its intended lifespan, dermatologists recommend that you:
Store your cosmetics in a dry, clean space, keeping them at room temperature and out of direct sunlight.
Wash your hands and face before applying makeup.
Never share makeup that you place directly on your skin or eyelashes or apply with a brush or sponge.
Replace all caps and lids securely after each use.
Use clean makeup brushes and sponges.
How often do you need to clean makeup brushes and sponges?
Dirty brushes and sponges can cause acne breakouts, rashes, and skin infections.
“Sponges should be cleaned after every use,” Dr. Bailey says. After using a makeup sponge:
Fill a bowl with warm water, adding a few drops of liquid cleanser or soap as the bowl fills.
Place your sponge in the bowl, and massage the soapy water into the sponge for 15 seconds.
Remove the sponge and hold it under warm running water, keeping it there until the water runs clear.
Squeeze out the excess water, and let the sponge air dry on a clean paper towel.
Dr. Spearman says, “Studies show that you need to clean your makeup brushes every 7 to 10 days.” This short video shows you How to clean your makeup brushes.
Sunscreen has an expiration date
Unlike makeup, sunscreen has an expiration date. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires sunscreen to maintain its original strength for three years, and manufacturers often put the expiration date on the container.
“Dermatologists recommend that you toss sunscreen when it expires because the active ingredients that protect your skin break down and no longer protect you,” says Dr. Bailey.
She and her husband know firsthand what happens when you use expired sunscreen.
“Many years ago on a beautiful spring day, my husband grabbed a tube of the prior year’s sunscreen that he found in our kitchen drawer. Before stepping outside, he applied this sunscreen, and he reapplied it as recommended by his dermatologist wife while he worked in the garden all day. The next day he was beet red. The sunscreen didn’t work as expected because it had expired,” Dr. Bailey recounted.
To reduce her family’s risk of sunburn, early skin aging, and skin cancer, Dr. Bailey now keeps track of the expiration dates of every sunscreen product in her home so that she is sure to replace expired sunscreen before someone in her household uses it. She recommends that you do the same.
Dr. Spearman shares more great reasons to throw out expired sunscreen. She says, “Expired sunscreens may break down and cause irritated skin or even an allergic skin reaction. It’s also possible to develop a skin infection because over time, mold or bacteria can grow inside the container.”
If your sunscreen doesn’t have an expiration date, write the date you bought the sunscreen on the container. That way, you’ll know when to throw it out.
It’s also possible for sunscreen to spoil before it expires. You know it’s time to buy more sunscreen – even if it hasn’t expired — if your sunscreen shows any of the following signs:
Obvious change in color
Different or foul odor
Signs of separation (i.e., you see different layers like an oil and a solid)
Dry and flaky consistency
One reason sunscreen can go bad before its expiration date is heat. If it’s left in direct sunlight or inside a hot, enclosed space like a car, the ingredients can break down more quickly.
Check your makeup and sunscreen today
Now that you know the problems that expired or spoiled products can cause, it’s time to check your products. “Tossing old makeup and expired sunscreen can keep your skin looking its best today and throughout your life,” says Dr. Bailey.
________________________________________________________________________________Images
Images 1,2: Courtesy of Drs. Bailey and Spearman
Image 3: Getty Images
Written by:
Paula Ludmann, MS Reviewed by:
Cynthia Bailey, MD, FAAD
Dana Spearman, MD, FAAD
Kesha Buster, MD, FAAD
Sandy Marchese Johnson, MD, FAAD
Desmond Shipp, MD, FAAD Last updated: 9/26/23
ECZEMA TYPES: STASIS DERMATITIS SELF-CARE
12 healthy habits that help prevent worsening stasis dermatitisIf you have stasis dermatitis, a treatment plan along with self-care can get the disease under control and prevent it from worsening. Here are the healthy habits that dermatologists recommend for their patients who have stasis dermatitis.
Elevate your legs above the heart: Do this throughout the day. If possible, dermatologists recommend that you elevate your legs above your heart:
Once every 2 hours for 15 minutes
While you sleep (keep your legs elevated with pillows)
Take breaks when you must sit or stand for an hour or longer. If you must sit or stand for long periods, take a break every hour and walk briskly for 10 minutes. This will jump-start your circulation.
Get physical. Exercise can improve your circulation and strengthen your calf muscles. Walking is an especially good exercise for people who have stasis dermatitis. Be sure to build up slowly and ask your dermatologist how often you should exercise.
Wear loose-fitting cotton clothing. Wool and other rough fabrics, polyester, and rayon can irritate skin with stasis dermatitis and lead to a flare-up.A loose fit is also important. Tight waistbands and snug pants interfere with your circulation. If clothing rubs against stasis dermatitis, the fabric can irritate the sensitive skin.
Use your compression garment if your dermatologist recommends one. Compression can:
Improve the circulation in your legs
Prevent open sores
Reduce your risk of another flare
If you have trouble putting on your compression garment or wearing it causes discomfort, tell your dermatologist. This is a common problem. Your dermatologist can provide some helpful tips or write a prescription for physical therapy.
A physical therapist can offer tips for reducing the pain when you put on the garment. Most patients find that once they start wearing the compression garment, their swelling decreases within a few weeks. With less swelling, they start to feel better.
Avoid injuring the area and aggravating the stasis dermatitis. The skin with stasis dermatitis is very sensitive. If you injure or aggravate the area, it could lead to an infection or open sores.To avoid irritating the skin with stasis dermatitis, avoid touching anything that could irritate it, such as:
Pet hair
Plants
Grass
Cleaning products
Perfume
Skin care products that contain fragrance (use only products labeled “fragrance-free.”)
Moisturize dry skin. Moisturizer helps prevent scaly skin and irritation. Petroleum jelly works well for most patients. If you prefer to use another moisturizer, choose an ointment or thick cream that says “fragrance-free” on the container.
Take care when bathing. Soaps and rough-textured towels or bath sponges can irritate skin with stasis dermatitis. Dermatologists recommend the following to their patients with stasis dermatitis:
Use a mild, fragrance-free cleanser rather than soap. When you shower or take a bath, use only this cleanser. Rinsing soap from other parts of your body can cause the soap to run down your body, which can irritate skin with stasis dermatitis.
After bathing, gently pat the water from your skin with a clean towel. You’ll want to keep a bit of water on the skin with stasis dermatitis.
Within 2 minutes of bathing, apply petroleum jelly or a thick, creamy moisturizer that is fragrance-free on your damp skin. This helps to keep moisture in your skin. Keeping your skin moisturized helps to prevent scaly skin and irritation.
Reach and stay at a healthy weight. Staying at a healthy weight can reduce swelling and improve your overall health.
Drink 8 glasses of water every day. This can improve circulation and reduce swelling.
Limit salt. Too much salt can decrease your blood flow. Even if you never salt your food, you may be getting too much salt. According to the American Heart Association, the average American consumes 3,400 milligrams of sodium every day. The recommended daily amount is 1,500 milligrams or less.3For tips that can help you cut back on the salt, go to, How to reduce sodium.
Keep your dermatology appointments. Stasis dermatitis is a condition that you may have for life. Learning how to manage it and finding out what works best for you can take time. The time spent learning what to do will pay off. Most patients find that once they know what to do, they can manage the disease at home with healthy habits and medication as needed to treat flare-ups.If you need a dermatologist, you can find one by going to, Find a dermatologist.
Images
Getty Images
References
American Academy of Dermatology. “Stasis dermatitis and leg ulcers.” Basic Dermatology Curriculum. Last accessed August 28, 2020.
3 American Heart Association. “9 out of 10 Americans eat too much sodium.” Page last accessed August 31, 2020.
Flugman SL, Clark RA. [editor: Elston DM] “Stasis dermatitis.” Medscape. Last updated Mar 27, 2020.
Nedorost S, White S, et al. “Development and implementation of an order set to improve value of care for patients with severe stasis dermatitis.” J Am Acad Dermatol. 2019 Mar;80(3):815-7.
Reider N, Fritsch PO. “Other eczematous eruptions.” In: Bolognia JL, et al. Dermatology. (fourth edition). Mosby Elsevier, China, 2018:235-6.
Sundaresan S, Migden MR, et al. “Stasis dermatitis: Pathophysiology, evaluation, and management. Am J Clin Dermatol. 2017;18(3):383-90.