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Put Your Best Foot Forward: Skin Care for Feet

Spring has officially arrived and although you may be eager for the first warm day to wear sandals or flip-flops, your feet may not be as enthusiastic about their looming reveal.  After being cooped up in heavy socks and boots all winter, your feet need some extra care so that they look good and feel great! Today’s Skin School blog provides you with information about pedicures and how to prepare feet for the changing season.

In recent years, there has been more focus placed on exercise and fitness. This means we are on our feet a lot more, which can lead to considerably more wear and tear on our feet. With that being said, feet need extra attention to treat problems such as bunions, corns and calluses.

Pedicures are a good way to keep your feet healthy and looking good. A pedicure consists of soaking the feet, clipping and filing the nails, pushing the cuticles back, getting off the dead skin, applying lotion, and a deep intense massage.

Over time, feet can buildup dry, cracked skin, particularly on the heels. Exfoliation is essential during a pedicure because it gently removes these tough, dead skin cells to allow healthier skin to show through. Skin on the feet will be elastic, smoother and callous-free.

At Knoxville Dermatology Group, any one of our board certified physicians can provide you with general information regarding proper skin care for feet; however, we suggest you contact a podiatrist to answer specific questions you may have.

Schedule an appointment today with one of our board certified physicians to gain more knowledge about your skin so it can reach its fullest, healthiest potential!
Contact Knoxville Dermatology Group at 865.690.9467.

Caring for Your Lips

There are many products on the market promising to firm, tighten and moisturize our skin. Our skin needs moisture to function properly and the harsh elements we face every day can take a toll on its moisture levels. From hot showers and baths to changing seasonal elements, our skin works overtime to do its job.  The physicians of Knoxville Dermatology Group understand the importance of addressing skin care issues such as this.  In this edition of the skin school blog, we’ll focus on lips and ways to care for them.

Chapped Lips
If you suffer from chapped and dry lips that never seem to go away, even when using lip balm, you may be dealing with product overload. Constantly applying lip balm can reduce the lips’ ability to moisturize themselves. Furthermore, lips dry out faster because they lack the sweat and oil glands that provide moisture.

Keep in mind, lip balms are classified as emollients, which work to seal the skin; and body moisturizers are humectants which draw moisture in.

Tip: Make sure to remove dead skin cells with exfoliation before applying balm.  As this prevents flaking and drying, it also triggers new cell growth.

Tip: Sometimes we can get into a habit of licking our lips which inadvertently dries them out. Be more aware of this and try to keep from engaging in this behavior if you can.

As mentioned earlier, products classified as emollients (waxy sealants) can help seal in moisture, such as in our lips, but they also pose a threat to cell growth. Exfoliation is key to stimulating cell growth because it promotes proper blood circulation and sloughs away dead skin cells.

If you would like further information regarding skin care and/or skin conditions, schedule a consultation with one of our board certified physicians. Call 865.690.9467 today!

Nutrition and Its Impact on Skin Health

Is what you put on your plate as important as what you put on your skin? YES! Physicians, health experts and dermatologists alike agree that skin health is reflective of our diet. Therefore, diets rich in vitamins and antioxidants are more likely to reveal a clear, smooth and vibrant complexion.  This blog will explore exactly which foods are best (and worst) for skin so you can reassess your diet and make changes if necessary. At Knoxville Dermatology Group, the health of your skin is our number one priority. We hope informative articles such as this enhances your skin health knowledge, so you can take a more pro-active approach to your skin care.

Skin that is dry, dull, sallow and even slow to repair itself is an indication of a weak diet. When your diet lacks variety of fruits, vegetables, proteins and carbohydrates then it will show in your appearance, namely the skin.  Health experts emphasize the importance of eating a balanced diet not only to support skin’s appearance, but to ward off illness and disease. So what foods are best for skin and why?

Low-Fat Dairy Products- Yogurt
The health of our skin cells is dependent on dietary vitamin A, often found in dairy products.  Furthermore, low-fat yogurt is highly recommended as it is also high in acidophilus, the “live” bacteria that is good for intestinal health.  These live bacteria and enzymes promote normal digestion which is strongly tied to healthy-looking skin.                                                                                                                                                                                          

Fruit- Blackberry, Blueberry, Strawberry, Plum
These “fab four” fruits have the highest “total antioxidant capacity” of any food according to studies.  These fruits contain antioxidants and phytochemicals that protect skin cells from damage to their DNA. For instance, free radicals formed from sun exposure can contribute to cell disintegration and premature aging. However, antioxidants and phytochemicals serve as a guard and block these effects, thus helping skin retain its youth.

Essential Fatty Acids- Salmon, Walnuts, Canola Oil, Flax Seed
Cell membranes are important because they hold water in; the stronger that barrier is the better cells can hold moisture, thus allowing skin to appear supple and plump.  Essential fatty acids are necessary to maintain a healthy cell membrane.  A balance of essential fatty acids omega 3 and omega 6 aids skin health. Since many people lack omega 3s, incorporating more fish, walnut and flax seed oil is recommended.

Eating good-quality oils is another way to keep skin well lubricated. Oils labeled cold pressed, expeller processed, or extra virgin are the best choices. Keep in mind, any fat is high in calories so limit consumption to two tablespoons per day.      

Selenium-Rich Foods
The mineral selenium present in whole-wheat bread, cereals; turkey, tuna and Brazil nuts play a key role in health of skin cells.  Studies shown in the American Academy of Dermatology indicate skin damaged by sun may suffer fewer consequences when selenium levels are high. In addition, skin cells with high levels of selenium are less likely to suffer from oxidative damage- often linked to the risk of cancer.

Avoid foods that contain white-flour, sugar and white rice. All these items can affect insulin levels, thus causing inflammation and break outs.

Water

Proper hydration is vital to our skin cells. Not only does water hydrate cells, but it helps cells move nutrients in and toxins out. This is pertinent to overall health and helps skin look clean and clear.

Although it is recommended we drink around eight glasses of water each day, the type of water is equally important to amount. Do not shy away from hard water, as it is high in minerals. Soft water may taste better, but it loses the health benefits because it has been de-mineralized.

Schedule an appointment today with one of our board certified physicians to gain more knowledge about your skin so it can reach its fullest, healthiest potential!

How to Treat and Prevent Ingrown Hairs

With Spring and Summer fast approaching, so are the woes that accompany shaving. From shaving beards to shaving legs, men and women who choose this method of hair removal are more than often plagued with ingrown hairs. The redness, irritation and bumps that appear only a few days after shaving, typically accompany ingrown hairs. Though symptoms can be treated, incorporating simple habits to your skin care regiment as a means of prevention is much more advantageous. In this article, we will explore ways to treat and prevent ingrown hairs.

Ingrown hairs (Pseudofolliculitis Barbae) are unsightly and can be painful. They result when shaved hair gets trapped inside the follicle or grows back into the skin. Additionally, certain body parts that are more difficult to shave (such as underarms and bikini) are more prone to this condition due to body heat and friction between skin or against clothing. Ingrown hairs cause an inflammatory response (redness, itchiness, and/or raised infected area

According to the Library of Skin Conditions, some instances of Pseudofolliculitis Barbae can develop into extreme Folliculitis when the hair follicle becomes acutely inflamed. Bacteria, yeasts, or fungi infections can result, as well as some acne variants of the condition.

Razor bumps are caused by infected hair follicles and come from the end of the hair shaft that has been cut and continues to grow into another nearby hair follicle. The introduction of the sharpened end of a hair follicle into another causes an inflammatory response in the skin and leads to a pimple or bump.
The American Academy of Dermatology makes several recommendations to treat and prevent this condition:

*Use Active Ingredients: When selecting a facial cleanser/body wash, choose a product that contains beta hydroxy acids (such as salicylic acid). Since the hair follicle can be blocked by hardened proteins, exfoliating with a beta hydroxyl acid will penetrate deeply and slowly dissolve the plug of hardened proteins. Dermatological-grade ingredients exfoliate, moisturize, clear pores and help prevent infection. Salicylic acid is also recommended as a post-shave product.

Additionally, do not use any product that has alcohol as it will seriously worsen ingrown hairs by drying the skin and closing the pores.

*Exfoliate: Every time you bathe and cleanse your body and/or face, exfoliate to dislodge the tips of ingrown hairs and eliminate dead skin cells. This lifts the hair away from the follicle while softening the hair and preparing it for the shave. Moreover, exfoliation works well to grow hair in the right direction.

*Observe Shaving Techniques:
Razor bumps are triggered by shaving too close. When hair stubs are cut closely, they get trapped inside the hair follicle and curl inward. When shaving, press gently with the blade and make sure not to pull the skin. Also, use a single-blade razor (never an old, dull blade) and avoid shaving over the same area too many times, as this will cause unnecessary skin irritation.

Shave in the direction of the hair growth each time you shave (recommended every other day). For women, when shaving the leg area, shave down instead of up. Dermatologists believe shaving in the same direction, as opposed to against the grain, helps train the hair to grow out straight instead of curling back into the skin.

Upon shaving, apply a damp warm towel to the area for a few minutes to soothe and soften skin.

To treat already ingrown hairs:
*Disinfect the area using a product containing buffered fatty alcohol. This kills the bacteria without the “sting.”
*Use tweezers to carefully lift the ingrown end. Don’t pluck as this will make the hair grow deeper.
*Use products that contain azulene, allantoin and witch hazel to reduce the redness and swelling caused by the ingrown hair.
*There are products available that fight ingrown hairs. Apply to the target area and the bumps should subside and the ingrown hair will point back to the skin’s surface.

 

If you have further questions or concerns regarding this common condition, schedule an appointment today at Knoxville Dermatology Group with one of our board certified physicians to gain more knowledge about your skin so it can reach its fullest, healthiest potential!

Diabetes and Skin Care

Diabetes is a disorder of the body’s immune system in which the body has trouble regulating its blood glucose or blood sugar levels.  Although diabetes affects millions of Americans and continues to grow, medical advancements have opened the door to several treatment options that have eased the burden of living with this condition. Furthermore, proper management of diabetes through lifestyle changes makes a significant impact on the severity of the condition. For instance, if a person with diabetes neglects proper care of their body it could lead to complications that may turn life threatening.

The importance of proper skin care among diabetics needs to be stressed.  People with diabetes are more likely to develop skin conditions. According to the American Diabetes Association, as many as one third of people with diabetes will have a skin disorder caused or affected by the condition at some time in their lives. Skin problems can be the first indication that someone is afflicted with the disorder. Adversely, since reduced nerve sensitivity and circulation to the extremities are symptomatic of diabetes, skin problems are hard to identify for some.

How Diabetes Affects Skin
When blood glucose is high, the body loses fluid. As a result, skin on the legs, feet, elbows, and other areas on the body become dry and often itchy. Dry skin cracks, allowing germs into the body which can cause infections. If blood glucose is high, it feeds germs and makes infections worse. Moisture can also be lost through frequent urination, a common side effect of diabetes.

Another way diabetes can hurt skin is nerve damage that decreases the amount of sweat a person produces. As sweating helps keep skin soft and moist, decreased sweating in feet and legs can cause dry skin.

A major issue amongst diabetics is reduced or delayed healing. As patients more prone to infection, their bodies are slow to heal due to reduced blood circulation, higher glucose levels, slower metabolism and thicker skin.  Furthermore, thickening of the skin increases susceptibility to infection.

To keep diabetes well managed, here are several tips for skin care:

  • When bathing, use a mild and/or moisturizing soap then rinse well. Avoid hot baths and showers. Try to bathe less during cold, winter months.
  • Dry off skin well and use a standard lotion or cream. Ask a doctor or dermatologist for suggestions.
  • Drink lots of fluids, such as water to keep skin moist.
  • Wear all-cotton underwear to allow air to move around the body.
  • Do not scratch dry, itchy skin as it can open up allowing infections to set in.
  • During cold, dry months use a humidifier to add moisture to the air.

To best address the skin needs for those afflicted with diabetes, routine visits with a dermatologist is recommended. Not only will they assess the skin’s condition, but provide patients with advice for proper skin care. The licensed dermatologists of Knoxville Dermatology Group understand how daunting living with diabetes can seem. However, their knowledge and attention to patient needs is conducive to proper management.

Schedule an appointment today with one of our board certified physicians to gain more knowledge about your skin so it can reach its fullest, healthiest potential!

Skin Conditions in Children

No matter how healthy your children may be, skin issues can still arise from time to time. It is important to pay attention to any new developments that may present themselves because skin conditions in children can often be more severe or have different effects than the same conditions in adults. From common rashes to hormone-inducing acne, your dermatologist, such as a member of our team here at Knoxville Dermatology Group, can assess the situation and identify what methods of treatment will best suit your child’s needs.

Some common skin problems in children (which we will go into more detail about below) are eczema, sunburn, and warts.

Eczema

A common skin condition for adults and children alike, this itchy, red rash forms dry patches all over the body, usually for no reason at all. It can be hard to diagnose initially because it looks similar to other rashes and psoriasis. To help narrow the options down, think about the timing of the rash, the location of it on your child’s body and any patterns of flares up. Always share any information you have about the rash or condition with your dermatologist during your child’s appointment.

Ways to prevent your child’s eczema from flaring up include avoiding known triggers (harsh soaps, food allergies, etc) and keeping the skin moisturized.  Your dermatologist can prescribe different medications to help prevent discomfort of eczema so that it will clear up as quickly as possible. Although there is no cure for eczema, it is possible that your child can grow out of it.

Sunburn

With the spring and summer seasons upon us, exposure to the sun is inevitable. Make sure your children are protected! Even if they are only outside for a few minutes or it is an overcast day, the sun’s harmful UVA and UVB rays can still wreck havoc on your child’s skin. Try to avoid sunburns at all cost. To prevent sun damage, chose sunscreen with both UVA and UVB protection and SPF of 30 or higher.

If your child is spending a whole day outside, such as on the lake or at the beach, additional protection might be in order. Sunglasses, a hat, and a light layer of clothing can offer more protection from the sun’s rays.

Perhaps your child has already experienced a burn. Home remedies such as cool compresses or aloe vera can work on minor burns, but always take special care to determine whether a child needs professional medical treatment. Children are especially at risk for long lasting skin damage. As always, this blog serves to inform, but none of the information outlined here should ever replace proper medical care and attention. To read our disclaimer, click here.

Warts

Warts, while not a desirable condition, are usually harmless when they show up in children. The most common wart is a hard, round and small bump that usually occurs on hands or fingers. Most of the time they go away on their own, but if your child is experiencing a wart that is bothersome or won’t heal, seek attention from your dermatologist.

The most widely used method of wart treatment/removal at the dermatologist involves use of liquid nitrogen. This might sting a little, but a good physician will take care to make sure your child is comfortable and and avoid as much pain as possible. Some warts, if large or deeply rooted, may require follow-up treatments, but as long as you follow your physicians orders, everything should heal up in a matter of time.

In today’s Skin School Blog, we’ve touched on a few of the skin ailments that children commonly face. These are just three possible issues, but if your child is experiencing any other type of skin condition or concern, contact your dermatologist.

Is your child experiencing any types of skin issues that might need to be addressed by a  dermatologist? Our team of board certified physicians here at Knoxville Dermatology Group is here to help. Schedule an appointment today with one of our board certified physicians to have your child’s skin examined so you can feel confident about the health of his or her skin. We are here to provide your child the necessary skincare so he can reach his fullest, healthiest potential.

Contact Knoxville Dermatology Group at 865.690.9467.

Transition Your Skin from Winter to Spring

Winter is coming to an end and seasonal changes like this can take quite a toll on your skin. With the right tools and information, this transition doesn’t have to be a painful one. By adding a little extra effort and incorporating some updates to your skincare regimen, you’ll be unveiling fresh, fabulous skin in no time.

Step 1: Spring Cleaning. Take this opportunity to check the expiration dates on all your cosmetics, makeup and skincare products. Each has a specific shelf life and using them past their expiration dates is not the best practice. Bacteria can grow quite easily from air getting trapped inside containers, and using fingers for application can contribute to contamination.

Step 2: Exfoliate. Your skin is constantly renewing itself, but if the dead skin cells aren’t removed, it will appear dull and dry. While you always want to handle your skin with care, some gentle exfoliation is fine if not performed too often. There are many products that your dermatologist can prescribe for you to help promote skin renewal. Additionally, some people have good luck with over-the-counter products, but always leave more extreme issues in the hands of experts like your physician.

Step 3: Switch Things Up. Changes in the weather bring skin changes as well. When colder months are upon us, skin tends to be dry and requires heavier moisturizers. These same products are usually too heavy for skin when warmer weather arrives. Your dermatologist can help you determine which products are best while your skin is transitioning from one season to another.

Step 4: Get Glowing. When the weather warms, your first inclination might be to get outside and soak up a few rays of sun. There are many ways to get a healthy glow without compromising your skin’s health. From self-tanning products to temporary spray tans, explore your options. Thanks to recent technology developments, these give a natural, even looking tan – without the paying a hefty price of your skin’s health.

No matter what ways the seasonal changes are affecting your skin, we’re here to help. Our team of board certified physicians here at Knoxville Dermatology Group has the expertise and compassion to help you get your skin in great shape. Schedule an appointment today with one of our board certified physicians to get your skin the care it needs so it can reach its fullest, healthiest potential.

Contact Knoxville Dermatology Group at 865.690.9467.

Treating Acne in Teenagers

Young people are often faced with skin breakouts or a condition called acne. Caused by changing hormones, many pre-teens and teenagers suffer from this condition when puberty sets in. Hormones stimulate glands in pores to make more oil and this can cause pores to become clogged.
Over-the-Counter Acne Treatments

Sometimes teens can have good luck with OTC products, the main ingredients of which are benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid. These ingredients can help unclog pores and also stop bacteria from growing.  However, it’s important to use all products with caution, realizing that in the case of a serious case of acne, a board certified dermatologist, such as a member of our team here at Knoxville Dermatology Group will be able to better serve your skincare needs.

Don’t overload your skin with products. Using any more than two acne products can dry your skin, which makes acne worse. Take care with any products containing alcohol, which can irritate your skin, causing outbreaks. And never pick, scratch, pop, or squeeze blemishes. It can make acne worse, and lead to skin infections that may leave scars.

Do Daily Facial Care

1. Gently wash your face twice a day.

Use your fingertips (not a washcloth) and lukewarm water. Use a gentle non-soap cleanser one time and a 2½% benzoyl peroxide wash the other time.

2. Do spot treatment.

Dot problem areas with a 2% salicylic acid product after you wash your face with cleanser. Skip this step when you use a benzoyl peroxide wash.

3. Apply moisturizer.

Use one that says “oil free,” “nonacnegenic,” or “non-comedogenic.” (That goes for makeup and sunscreen too.) For daytime, use one with a minimum SPF of 30.

What a Dermatologist Can Do for You

If OTC products aren’t working or you are suffering from a sudden case of acne that just doesn’t seem normal, it’s important to seek treatment from a dermatologist. A dermatologist is trained to examine and diagnose your unique skin issues and prescribe stronger acne medications to help you see real results. The doctor also has the ability to utilize many different procedures that have proven effectiveness.

If you’ve already suffered from acne and have unwanted scarring from past breakouts, your dermatologist can treat these as well them with treatments such as laser resurfacing, dermabrasion, chemical peels, surgery, and skin fillers.

A Word of Advice

Beware of “miracle cures.” There are no overnight cures for acne. If you hear someone on TV or the radio promising a fast, guaranteed treatment for acne, it’s more than likely just a way to sell a product. There are plenty of products that do work, but trust a physician to help you determine which is right for you.

Do You Have a Dermatologist You Can Trust?

Skin health is an important issue and we all must take certain steps to protect our skin as well as promote its health. One vital part of this is having a board certified dermatologist you can trust. Your dermatologist is the best defense you have against skin problems, giving you solutions to issues that range from mild, short-term invasions of blemishes to serious, long-term care of damage due to sun or other elements.

Dermatologists treat conditions such as rashes and other irritations, youth and adult acne and even more serious conditions such as melanoma. Board certified dermatologists, such as the members of our team here at Knoxville Dermatology Group, have extensive knowledge in pathology, chemistry, physics, biochemistry and physiology. Additionally, they possess the experience to advise you about skin treatment options and medications that might be most effective for your unique skin needs.

Since your skin must often be examined from head to toe, it’s important to have a physician you feel comfortable with and one you can trust. At Knoxville Dermatology Group, your healthy skin is our only business. We’d be honored to set up a consultation for you to get to know one of our doctors better and begin a long-term relationship today.

Are you in the market for a dermatologist? Our team of board certified physicians here at Knoxville Dermatology Group is here to help. Schedule an appointment today with one of our board certified physicians to establish a relationship that will give you confidence about your skin. We are here to provide you the care it needs so it can reach its fullest, healthiest potential.

Contact Knoxville Dermatology Group at 865.690.9467.

Hands Off Your Skin

Here at the Skin School blog, our main focus is your healthy skin. There are even a few solutions to improve the quality of your skin that don’t require a visit to our office. Would you believe the average person touches his or her face 16 times in one hour? From all the things we come in contact with daily, our hands certainly get their fair share of germs and bacteria.

You might even be touching your face while you read this blog post. Whether we notice it or not, this healthy skin no-no is something we all do. From rubbing your eyes, picking a blemish, or resting your face in your hands while sitting at a desk, as we touch the skin on our faces, bacteria is introduced in places we don’t want it.

There are two main reasons not to touch your face. First, it could cause you to get sick. If you have come into contact with something or someone infected with a cold or flu virus (such as a door knob or telephone) and then touch your face, your chance of getting sick increases by 50 percent.

The second important reason to avoid touching your skin is that it can cause acne. If you already have acne prone skin, touching it will increase your chances for breakouts. Our fingers secrete natural oil that mixes with dirt and bacteria on our skin and this leads to unwanted blemishes.

Here are a few simple tips to keep your hands off:

  • Be conscious of keeping your hands away from your face (it seems obvious, but not always easy to remember.
  • Wash your hands every few hours and always before eating.
  • Don’t pick pimples. It only pushes bacteria deeper into the skin and can cause unwanted scars.

Always clean your face before bed. A good skincare regimen will help to prevent a multitude of skin issues. If you aren’t sure how to go about doing this or haven’t had success in the past, a board certified dermatologist, such as a member of our team here at Knoxville Dermatology Group, can help you establish a skincare regimen that will meet your skin’s unique needs.

Are you suffering from breakouts or another skin condition? Our team of board certified physicians here at Knoxville Dermatology Group is here to help. Schedule an appointment today with one of our board certified physicians to get your skin the care it needs so it can reach its fullest, healthiest potential.

Contact Knoxville Dermatology Group at 865.690.9467.