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How to Screen Your Sun Protection

If everyone’s skin is different, then why do we try to protect it like it’s the same? Companies create makeup and skin care products designed to cater to different skin types. However, when it comes to sunscreen, people rarely research what they are buying, and which product will best protect their skin. Luckily for you, the American Academy of Dermatology released tons of tips and information that will help you choose a sun protection that will best guard your skin.

What to Buy

Sunscreen is typically sold in the forms of lotions, sticks and sprays. You will want to purchase something that is broad-spectrum, water-resistant and has an SPF of 30 or higher. Sunscreen must be applied every two hours, or after swimming and physical activity.

While lotions are recommended due to their full-coverage, sticks and sprays tend to be more convenient. A stick of sunscreen should be applied in four layers for maximum coverage. Rubbing it in after application ensures that an even layer has been covered. Spray sunscreen should be applied generously to your skin. Do not use a spray on a windy day to avoid inhaling the chemicals.

Types of Sunscreen

There are two different types of sunscreens available on the market: physical and chemical. Physical sunscreens work like a shield, as they sit on the surface of the skin to deflect the sun’s rays. This type of sunscreen should be used by people with sensitive skin. Physical sunscreens will include ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide.

Chemical sunscreens are designed to be applied easier to the skin. These products don’t leave the white residue that is frequent in physical sunscreens. Instead of reflecting the sun’s rays, chemical sunscreens absorb them. Ingredients like avobenzone, octisalate and homosalate are common in these products. The FDA has also issued a warning against sunscreen pills, which have been found to be ineffective.

Ingredients to Avoid

It’s very important to look at the ingredients in sun screen to see if it is suitable for your personal skin type. Recently, Hawaiian legislators banned the distribution of sunscreens that contain oxybenzone and octinoxate. These ingredients are used in chemical sunscreens and have raised environmental concerns. The chemicals are also linked to the damage of marine life and coral reefs.

The FDA has yet to ban these chemicals, as they are still approved and considered safe for human use. In fact, according to American Academy of Dermatology President Suzanne M. Olbricht, MD, all of the active ingredients in U.S. sunscreens have been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration as safe and effective for human use..  When one in five Americans will develop skin cancer at some point, the FDA is encouraging everyone to take the proper steps to protect themselves from the sun’s UV rays.

Do you have a concerning spot you need looked at? Or need help finding suitable sun protection for your skin? Contact Knoxville Dermatology Group today to make an appointment at (865) 690-9467.

How to Care for Aging Hair, Skin and Nails

Medical and scientific advances mean people are living longer and mortality rates are lower. In fact, the 65 and over demographic is the fastest growing age group in the U.S., totaling over 40 million people. In 2050, it is estimated that 20 percent of the population will fall into the 65 and over age category. Those in this age group may experience different challenges with their hair, skin and nails and it’s helpful to know what to look for and the treatments available.

Hair

As people age, it’s natural to experience graying and thinning hair due to a decrease in hair pigmentation and production. This leaves the scalp susceptible to UV radiation and other environmental factors that cause signs of  aging. It’s important to check the scalp regularly for cancerous skin tags or lesions that may have developed. Biotin and marine fish extract are supplements that strengthen hair production.

Skin

When the skin is the largest organ to the body, it’s important to pay extra attention and care for it in old age. Xerosis is a common condition found in older patients and causes the skin to become inflamed, cracked and dry. This condition occurs mostly on the legs but can appear on the hands and torso. Moisturizing two to three times a day and to avoid harsh soaps and hot water is recommended.

Non-melanoma skin cancer is another condition  people may experience as they age.  Abnormal skin growths are common in seniors, so it can be difficult to differentiate between damaged skin and a cancerous spot. Skin cancer can be prevented best by protecting yourself from ultraviolet light exposure. Regularly checking the skin for any abnormalities can help with early detection and improve the success of treatment.

Nails

Nail growth starts to slow with aging. The nail plate will become thinner causing it to become more brittle and to split. Onychauxis is a deformity that causes nail discoloration and can be painful. Keeping the hands dry and regular nail care appointments should be made to maintain nail structure and prevent infections.

Looking to discuss geriatric dermatology and skin care further? Call Knoxville Dermatology Group today at (865) 690-9467 to make an appointment today!

 

Ticked Off with the Lone Star Tick

Imagine having a summer barbeque in your backyard—one you’ve had many times before. A few hours or so after consuming a big juicy steak, you start to feel a weird sensation. Your eyes begin to itch, and hives appear on your body. It feels like an allergic reaction, but it can’t be because you’re aware of all your allergies. A visit to the doctor and a few tests tell you that you’ve developed an alpha-gal allergy, which causes a reaction to mammalian meat. This can come as a shock, especially if you’ve been eating red meat regularly your whole life. But a single bite from the Lone Star tick, can turn your immune system and your world upside down.

The Lone Star Tick and Alpha-Gal

This anomaly is a relatively new condition appearing mostly in the southeastern states. Alpha-gal is short for galactose-alpha-1, 3-galactose, a carbohydrate molecule that is found in red meats and other foods. If a Lone Star tick, named for the Texas-shaped mark in its back, happens to be carrying this molecule at the time it bites you, it can activate your allergy immune system. Your body will then be wired to create antibodies that will fight off the alpha-gal molecules. There is no cure for this allergy, but medical professionals do have treatments that help manage symptoms.

Pest Control:

As the virus is starting to spread to northern states and other parts of the country, doctors are urging patients to use proper protection when outdoors. Warm weather allows people to spend more time outside, but also makes the allergy easier to catch. Therefore, the allergy is primarily in the southern states. Using insecticide and avoiding grassy, woody trails can reduce the risk of tick bites.

Tick Check:

Checking your body and bathing with soap and hot water after outdoor activities is the best way to avoid diseases transmitted by a tick bite. Begin your check by taking all your clothes off and washing them immediately. Starting at the scalp, check thoroughly for any small bumps. Continue down behind your ears, to your neck and armpits. Keep moving down your body and use a mirror to catch any hard to see places like the back.  Ticks are especially attracted to dark areas, so be sure to examine your arms, the back of knees, ankles and groin area extra carefully. Continue checking your body and scalp the next few days in case anything was missed.

Looking to control your allergies and their reactions? At Knoxville Dermatology Group, we offer allergic reaction support for anyone struggling with abnormal allergy conditions. Call today to make an appointment, or visit our website online.

Check Your Man Out: It May Save His Life.

Father’s Day is over, but Men’s Health Month will last for the rest of June. Men’s Health Month was recognized by Congress in 1994 to encourage men, boys and their families to seek regular medical examination and advice for preventative disease treatment. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, women are nine times more likely to detect melanoma or another cancerous spot on the skin. This may be why white men above the age of 50 are the highest demographic to develop skin cancer. If cancer doesn’t discriminate, how is this possible? Here is a list of manly habits that raises men’s risk of developing skin cancer:

He’s a Chronic Shorts Wearer:

The backs of the legs and calves are a highly susceptible place to develop skin cancer. This is especially common for people who wear shorts or go to the beach regularly. When wearing shorts, the amount of sun reaching your legs can be dangerous even when you aren’t intending on getting sun. It can be difficult applying sunscreen to the backs of the legs and keeping them covered from the sun while running daily errands.

He Drives Everywhere:

Truck drivers, delivery people and construction workers have a greater risk of developing skin cancer to their hands and forearms. The left arm and both hands receive direct sunlight when they are on the steering wheel. Many don’t realize they are receiving that exposure due to being in a temperature-controlled car.

His New Haircut:

The top of the head is another common spot for men to develop skin cancer, especially when sporting a shorter hairstyle. It also makes it one of the hardest places to check. Even a ball cap can’t protect the ears from exposure to the sun. Regular scalp checks and wide brimmed hats are recommended for people who work and spend time outside on a regular basis.

To help raise awareness about men’s risk to skin cancer, the AAD released a campaign titled, “Check Your Partner. Check Yourself.” This encourages family members to check both themselves and their partners for suspicious moles and spots. Melanoma and other forms of skin cancer are highly treatable when detected early.

If you have concerns about you or your partner’s skin, contact Knoxville Dermatology Group at (865) 690-9467 for an appointment.

The Miracle of Accutane

Accutane, or isotretinoin, is a brand name prescription medication that is used to treat severe acne. Introduced in 1979, Accutane became popular when patients saw a dramatic and permanent change in their acne symptoms. The drug contains a derivative from vitamin A and is taken orally in the form of a pill. Accutane is only prescribed to people who have not responded well to other acne treatments. In rare cases, the medication is used in treatment of certain cancers due to its ability to kill cells quickly.

How does it work?

Researchers aren’t sure exactly how Accutane works on a cellular level, but they are aware of the effects it has on acne. Acne occurs when too much oil is being produced and clogs the pores. Accutane reduces the size of these pores and even the amount of oil they produce. The medication slows down the skin cell production rate, which is what mostly causes our pores to get blocked. Accutane also contains anti-inflammatory properties, which will reduce redness and puffiness in the face.

Is Accutane right for you?

Accutane is available through iPLEDGE, a program that mandates the distribution of isotretinoin medicines.  Women taking Accutane must take regular pregnancy tests and be on primary and secondary forms of birth control.

Think Accutane is for you? Contact Knoxville Dermatology Group to set up a consultation and appointment at (865) 690-9467 or online at www.knoxderm.com.

Baby Got Bacne

When we hear acne, memories of high school and puberty come to the forefront of our minds. While many people’s faces clear up past this phase, it isn’t uncommon to experience acne—and even bacne—in our adult lives. Dealing with zits on your face is one thing, but blemishes on your back can be tougher and in hard to reach places. With swimsuit season here, you are probably ready to learn how to manage your bacne once and for all! 

Acne vs. Bacne: 

Many people think that the only difference between acne and bacne is the location it appears on your body. With the back being hard to reach, it is often difficult to clean and exfoliate the problem areas completely. Also, serums used to treat the face often don’t respond as well on the back because the skin there is much thicker and resilient. The skin on the face receives more blood supply that lets acne heal faster and reduce scarring.  

Causes of Bance:  

Although some people are just more prone to bacne than others, there are conditions that will make it worse. Acne happens when our pores become clogged and can’t excrete the oily-sebum that keeps our skin healthy. Men are more prone to bacne thanks to their over-active sebaceous glands and the amount of hair on their backs. Personal products like hair products and body soaps may be blocking your pores and even causing bacne. Scented products use ingredients that will clog your pores, so try using a plain wash made for sensitive skin. Excessive sweating due to exercise can also be a cause. Daily showers, wearing clean clothes and keeping your skin dry are basic hygiene skills and factors to keep in mind.  

Bacne Treatments:  

With tougher skin on the back than the face, products used to treat bacne need a stronger formula, but typically contain the same ingredients. Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) work to exfoliate the top layer of the skin to smooth and clear the back of any dead skin cells that will clog pores. Using a loofah or a scrub with beads in it will irritate the acne and spread the bacteria across the back. Beta Hydroxy Acides (BHAs) are the most effective acne treatments and are designed to clean out dirt from your pores. Applying these to clean, dry skin on a regular basis can significantly improve your skin.  

Want to manage your bacne? Call Knoxville Dermatology Group today at (865) 690-9467 to set up a consultation! 

Don’t Sweat It: A guide to managing sweat

It’s that time of year when our bodies are constantly veiled in a thin layer of uncomfortable moisture. Due to a condition called hyperhidrosis, some people are prone to producing an excessive amount sweat. Everyone sweats; but hyperhidrosis causes people to perspire unpredictably, even in cooler weather and during non-strenuous conditions. Regardless of whether you have hyperhidrosis, sweating impacts people’s everyday life. Fortunately, there are ways to manage it.

Do I have hyperhidrosis?

Hyperhidrosis is a common condition that nearly one in every 20 people in the U.S. have. Although sweating is a natural body process, the condition limits people from doing routine tasks like writing with a pen or gripping a steering wheel. Hyperhidrosis can significantly impact people’s social relationships, activities and emotional health in a negative way.

Types of Hyperhidrosis:

There are two types of hyperhidrosis: primary and secondary.

  • Primary hyperhidrosis is defined as excessive sweating without a physical condition and is localized to the usual active regions.
  • Secondary hyperhidrosis is due to an underlying condition and is more generalized to the whole body.

How do I treat it?

Hyperhidrosis is a very managable condition, yet many do not seek treatment. Of the people diagnosed with hyperhidrosis, 60 percent do not know it is a medical condition and 47 percent do not know it’s treatable. A dermatologist can help determine the best form of treatment for your particular situation.

Sweat Hacks

Whether you have hyperhidrosis or not, here are some tips that can help you manage it:

  • Caffeine. Caffeine is a sweat trigger, so cutting back on coffee and tea will help reduce the amount of daily sweat.
  • Deodorants. Deodorants mask body odor, but do not stop excessive sweating. “Clinical strength” antiperspirants contain ingredients like aluminum chloride, which will temporarily block sweat pores.
  • Foods. Spicy foods can increase the amount of sweat you produce.
  • Fabrics. Cotton and other natural fabrics are breathable and will allow air to reach your skin.
  • Water. Sweating happens when your body temperature gets too high. Drinking water and staying hydrated will help regulate your body temperature.
  • Alcohol. Reducing alcohol intake is good for your health and can reduce the amount of excessive sweat.

With up to five million sweat glands in the human body, sweating is a part of everyday life. It’s uncomfortable and embarrassing, but we all do it. If you sweat excessively enough that it impacts your everyday life, it may be time to visit a dermatologist.

Schedule an appointment with Knoxville Dermatology Group to determine which treatment option is right for you. To make an appointment, contact us at (865) 690-9467 or online at www.knoxderm.com.

New Age of Psoriasis Treatment

There is nothing more self-conscious than having a visible rash on your skin. Psoriasis is a common, genetic autoimmune disease that causes people’s skin cells to grow at a faster than normal rate. This creates red, scaly patches on areas like the knees, elbows and scalp. Although it’s not contagious, many people living with psoriasis feel isolated and excluded. The good news is, there has been recent progress on new therapies that have amazing results in treating the condition.

Biologics

Biologics are medicines made from proteins, antibodies and other substances that are found in living things. Doctors inject these medicines into the bloodstream, which then block the altered immune system that contributes to psoriasis. Biologics are intended to curb white blood cells, block one of the main messenger chemicals in the immune system, stop interleukins and bind to proteins that create redness. Although they can be expensive, most biologics are FDA approved and clinical trials showed that it lowered psoriasis activity in at least 75 percent of patients.

Phototherapy

Psoriasis phototherapy works by focusing ultraviolet light on the problematic areas. Even regular exposure to sunlight can dramatically improve symptoms in patients. In recent years, more effective forms of light therapy have been approved by the FDA. UVB therapy focuses the ultraviolet rays directly on the affected areas,  requiring fewer treatments.

Topical Treatments

Topical treatments are ointments that are applied directly to the affected skin. These are a great option for patients looking to get relief, without the system-wide side effects that come with pill or injection treatments. There are various prescription creams and retinoids that aim at relieving inflammation and itching.

Schedule an appointment with Knoxville Dermatology Group to determine which treatment option is right for you. To make an appointment, contact us at (865) 690-9467 or online at www.knoxderm.com.

How to Protect Yourself During National Skin Cancer Awareness Month

Did you know May is National Skin Cancer Awareness Month? With warm weather here, it’s hard to not want to spend time in the sun. Being out in the sun makes our skin glow and everyone a little happier. It can also make us forget the threats that are associated with spending too much time in its’ rays. Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. It often goes undetected until it’s too late. Here is everything you need to know about protecting yourself while you enjoy the summer months:

UV Index:

The three most common forms of skin cancer are caused by overexposure to ultraviolet light. The UV Index ranks exposure levels to ultraviolet light based on a zero to 15 scale. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends wearing sun protection if the UV Index is a level three or higher. Weather apps calculate the UV Index for when you want to check the ultraviolet levels in your area.

Wear Sunscreen:

This is an obvious one! You should never be out in the sun without some sort of protection. Your sunscreen should have a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher. It should also be broad spectrum to protect you from both UVA and UVB rays. Sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours or after swimming, sweating and toweling off. Check the expiration date on the bottle to see if it has exceeded its shelf life before using.

Avoid Indoor Tanning:

The use of tanning beds is not safe for your skin and is definitely not recommended. One session in the tanning bed increases the risk of developing melanoma by 20 percent. A tan is the body’s response to injury from UV rays, so even getting a base tan is harmful to your skin.

Regular Skin Checks:

When detected early, skin cancer is very treatable. Self-examining your skin for suspicious moles can help you catch it before its too late. Observe the places on your body that receive the most sun exposure like your neck, legs, feet, elbows and arms. Ask a friend for help checking those hard-to-see places like your back and scalp.

If you do find a concerning spot contact Knoxville Dermatology Group today at (865) 690-9467 or on their website www.knoxderm.com.

Dandruff or Seborrheic Dermatitis?

Dandruff is small white flakes that appear on the head and scalp that can migrate to the shoulders. Many have faced issues with dandruff but if side effects persist, it could be something else. Another condition, seborrheic dermatitis, has similar implications to dandruff but is far more serious.

Dandruff

More than 50% of the U.S. population is affected by dandruff. It typically begins in puberty and is more common in men. Dandruff builds when there is an excess of skin cells that grow and die off quickly. Things like stress or sickness can increase the chances of dandruff, and often cold, dry weather does as well. There are many ways to fight dandruff using drugstore products or at home remedies. Dandruff isn’t anything to worry about. If after use of drug store products the scalp becomes red or irritated, you may need to seek medical attention.

Seborrheic Dermatitis

Seborrheic Dermatitis is slightly more serious than dandruff. It looks the same as dandruff, with flakes appearing on the scalp, able to spread. Seborrheic Dermatitis is known to appear with a burning red scalp. It is more common to spread all over the body where hair is present as opposed to solely the scalp. It can appear on eyebrows, arms and even the face. Seborrheic Dermatitis is often referred to as dandruff, seborrheic eczema or seborrheic psoriasis.

If you notice an increase in dandruff or any other side- effects, contact KDG at 865-690-9467 to see one of our providers.