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How Winter Weather Affects Your Skin

The cold, dry winter months effect all skin types, but what if you are already suffering from a condition? It is important to be proactive to understand how the winter weather affects your skin condition. Here are some common skin conditions, how the weather affects it and how to better manage the symptoms.

Rosacea

Rosacea is a chronic condition that causes the face to become inflamed and remain red for an extended period of time. This can be a frustrating condition; however, it causes no internal health issues. In the winter months, your skin can be especially delicate as it fights against the harsh temperatures and conditions. Try to keep your skin covered from the elements. Wearing a scarf is a great idea, as you can pull it up to cover your nose and cheeks as you trek to your destination. It’s important to stick to your treatment plan. However, if you are experiencing more intense flushing, start applying a heavy moisturizer and talk to your dermatologist about adding something seasonal to your treatment regimen.

Psoriasis

Phototherapy and spending time in the sunlight are common psoriasis treatments. The condition causes a buildup of skin cells that leave scaly, raised patches. In addition to the patches, psoriasis can also cause small, red bumps that cover different areas of the body. Decreased exposure to sunlight can play a huge role in the increased intensity of the condition during winter months. Try talking to your doctor about phototherapy, a new psoriasis treatment, to supplement for the time lost in the natural sunlight. Another reason for the condition worsening is the dry weather. A lack of humidity in the air can cause dry skin. A way to add moisture back into the air is to use a humidifier in your home, allowing your skin to drink in a bit more hydration.

Eczema

The skin condition, eczema is commonly seen as red, irritated and bumpy skin. It is often itchy and uncomfortable. Although it is not treatable, eczema is easily managed. However, in the winter, flare-ups occur more often causing heightened symptoms due to rapid temperature changes, especially when coming indoors from a cold day. To help avoid a reaction that may cause your skin to inflame, it is important to regulate your temperature as best possible. Try keeping your heater at a low setting. While it may seem nice to walk into an incredibly warm house after being in the cold, keeping your heater at a lower setting helps your skin acclimate to the temperature more easily.

Seborrheic Dermatitis

Similar to dandruff, but with more serious implications, seborrheic dermatitis causes a red, burning scalp with flakes. However, unlike dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis can appear on your body anywhere hair is present. The dryness of the winter can cause your condition to worsen, but be sure to still follow your treatment plan. Don’t use hot water when showering, but instead use lukewarm water so your scalp does not become inflamed. Try adding a humidifier in your home so your scalp stays moisturized without adding extra products to your hair or increasing oil production.

You can’t change the weather, but you can change up your daily routine by adding some simple items to your home treatment regimen. If your skin condition is beginning to worsen, it may be caused by the weather. Talk to your dermatologist about changes in your condition and ask about different treatment options. If you suffer from one of the conditions listed above, the dermatologists at Knoxville Dermatology Group are ready to help. Visit our website or give us a call to schedule an appointment at 865-690-9467.

Understanding Common Children’s Skin Conditions

Understanding Common Children’s Skin Condition

Summertime is officially here, which means Summer camps are back in session. Below are some common children’s Skin Conditions that may arise during the Summer.

Hives

Hives are red raised bumps or welts on the skin that are moderately to extremely itchy. They can appear anywhere on the body and can range in size. Several factors could cause hives. Foods like nuts, peanuts, fish, shellfish, eggs, and milk are the most common. Medications such as penicillin, aspirin, and ibuprofen, vitamins, eye and eardrops, laxatives or other non-prescription items can also cause hives. If your child is exposed to dust, animals or molds, specific detergents, fabric softeners or hair sprays, they could all be responsible. In addition, some affected children develop hives during exercise.

To treat hives, it is best to avoid any of the provoking factors listed above when possible. Antihistamines are especially effective in certain cases. If the hives do not respond to medicine, there are several topical treatments that can help. Your dermatologist will recommend the best course of action to reduce hive flareup quickly.

Head lice

Lice are a common problem for children. Although they are not dangerous, they are contagious, annoying and sometimes difficult to get rid of. It’s best to treat head lice as quickly as possible once they are found because of these reasons.

Even though lice are very small, they can be seen by the naked eye. Lice eggs resemble dandruff before they hatch. Lice eggs hatch within 1-2 weeks after they’re laid. The adult louse is as small as a sesame seed and will be gray or tan.

Your child may start to complain about itching or comment that something is “moving around” on their head. If these symptoms are present, make an appointment with your doctor. They will most likely recommend a medicated shampoo, cream rinse or lotion to kill the lice.

To prevent reinfestation, wash all bed linens and clothing that has been worn in the previous days. Vacuum carpets and upholstered furniture, and soak hair-care items (brushes, combs, hairbands) or throw them away.

MRSA

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, also known as MRSA, is a type of staph bacteria. Groups of kids who spend a lot of time together in close quarters (schools and camps) are at risk. It can spread through direct contact with infected skin or by sharing personal items like towels or clothing.

MRSA infections often develop around open sores, scrapes or bites. Red, painful bumps appear and some children experience a fever. In extreme cases, the infection can spread to the blood, lungs, bones or other parts of the body. Depending on the seriousness of the infection, your dermatologist may prescribe antibiotics or remove a skin abscess.

To prevent MRSA infections, there are several simple steps that you and your child can take. Washing hands for at least 20 seconds, keeping cuts and broken skin clean and covered with a bandage, avoiding sharing towels, uniforms, and athletic equipment or other items that come into contact with bare skin.

For more information on children’s skin conditions, contact your dermatologist.

3 Easy Tips for Beautiful Spring-Ready Skin

3 Easy Tips for Beautiful Spring-Ready Skin

 

The fresh green of spring is symbolic of nature, growth, freshness, and fertility. Winter can have a drying effect on the skin, so spring offers a renewed opportunity to get your skin, spring-ready and back in top condition. From exfoliation to properly caring for your skin in the spring sun, here are a few tips that will lead to dew-kissed, glowing skin.

Exfoliation

Shedding winter layers also applies to the skin. Prepare your skin to look and feel its best by sloughing off the dead, clogged skin cells that have accumulated throughout the winter. Exfoliation aids in boosting the circulation of the skin. This circulation stimulates the skin and produces new skin cells, which gives the skin that radiant, beaming look.

A physical exfoliant is a body scrub or product that contains grainy particles, usually sugar or salt, providing the scrubbing feeling when used. A chemical exfoliator is the milder of the two and recommended for sensitive skin. Consult with your dermatologist to determine which is the best type for you and your skin. A dermatologist is uniquely qualified to craft a personalized skin care regimen that will yield the best possible results.

Exfoliation is one of the oldest beauty practices and has been embraced by many cultures with their own unique traditions. The Chinese would rub ground pearls across their skin to rid it of dead cells with hopes of developing an illuminating glow. A traditional Scandinavian method involved vigorously scrubbing naked bodies with cedar branches in the snow before finding refuge in hot saunas.

Although those traditional methods served their purpose at the time, less expensive (and less-rustic) practices are now the norm. Here are some things to keep in mind when exfoliating:

  • Consider your skin type. Everyone’s skin is different; thus, everyone must consider the products and methods that will be safest and the most beneficial for their specific skin type. Those with sensitive skin may want to use a soft washcloth and mild chemical exfoliator; while those with oily, thicker skin, should consider a stronger, mechanical product.
  • Review the products you already use. Certain products or medications in your daily routine may cause your skin to be more sensitive and prone to peeling. Research what you already use and consult with your dermatologist about any over-the-counter products you are using.
  • Be gentle. Gently apply products to your skin using small, circular motions for about 30 seconds, before rinsing with lukewarm water. Avoid any open wounds, sunburns, bug bites or acne breakouts as it could lead to scaring.
  • Moisturize: Exfoliation has a drying effect on the skin, so be sure to immediately apply a moisturizing product to keep the skin hydrated and nourished.

Interested in more in-depth tips, specific to your skin care needs? Click to request a complimentary skin care analysis

Hydration

It is imperative to stay hydrated for overall health reasons, but especially for your skin. After exfoliation, take extra steps to keep your skin hydrated so it will stay supple and smooth. Moisturize when you get out of the shower and before bed. Swap the heavier, moisturizing cream you’ve been using all winter for a lighter, hydrating product to create spring-ready skin.

Don’t forget to drink water. The more water you drink, the more your skin will love you and reward you with a youthful, brighter glow. As the temperatures rise, you’ll likely be sweating and spending more time in the sun. The amount of water you are supposed to drink in a day depends on your overall weight and daily physical activity, but a few extra cups a day will help as you adjust to the heat.

Sun Protection

Did we mention the sun? As the layers fall off with the warming weather, you’ll naturally want to expose more skin. It is imperative to wear sunscreen every day to best protect the skin. At the end of winter, your skin will be at its palest and most vulnerable state. This is when your skin will burn the easiest resulting in the most damage. Applying a product with at least an SPF of 30 will reintroduce your skin to the UV rays and absorb them at a healthy rate.

By making this part of your daily routine you’ll be thankful in the long run. Your spring-ready skin will age the healthiest it can, without sun damage or spots, and your risk for skin cancer will be drastically reduced.

Want to learn more about how you can get your skin ready for spring? The staff at Anne Arundel Dermatology have years of experience in recommending medical grade skin care products that deliver the best results. Visit us online or make an appointment today by giving us a call at (443) 351-3376.

Make Your New Year’s Resolution Healthy Skin

New year, new skin? The new year is a fresh chance for us to work towards the betterment of ourselves. Whether your resolution is to give up a certain vice or pick up a good habit, it’s important to focus on attainable goals that lead you to a better life. Many vow to lose weight or pick up a new activity, but in 2019, we encourage you to make a commitment to better skin health.

Your epidermis, or skin, is the largest and fastest-growing organ in your body. It’s a defense barrier to outside damages and is constantly producing new cells to replace the old. Although our skin is continuously growing, that doesn’t mean it will take care of itself. Our skin requires daily care to be certain it’s working to its’ fullest potential. For 2019, make the simple resolution of adding any of these skin care practices to your daily routine

Moisturizing Daily

Just because the calendar is growing another year older, doesn’t mean our skin has to. Adding a daily moisturizer to your skin care routine is the perfect way to start fighting against bad skin. Winter air and dry heat can leave the skin feeling dry and cracked. Moisturizers will leave your skin feeling smooth and hydrated. Their effects are proven to fight off skin problems like blemishes and wrinkles.

With just as many skin types as there are moisturizing products, it’s important to talk with a dermatologist to determine which is the best for you. If your skin is naturally oily, be sure to choose a moisturizing lotion with exfoliation properties versus a smooth cream. However, those with drier skin need creams due to the higher oil content that’s contained.

SPF All Year

You may be wondering why we’re talking about sunscreen in January. Although we aren’t actively trying to sun ourselves in the winter months, that doesn’t mean we aren’t receiving the sun’s harmful rays when we venture outside. While it’s cold, your arms and legs will be protected from the sun by your long-sleeved clothes. We suggest adding a facial sunscreen to your morning routine, especially if you spend a good amount of your day outside. The sunscreen you choose must be broad spectrum against both UVA and UVB rays, water resistant and have an SPF of at least 30. As the months warm up and you start exposing more skin, start regularly applying sunscreen to those exposed areas as well.

Clean Face Before Bed

This one is a tale as old as time, but somehow the hardest to follow. We all know how incredibly important it is to give our skin a clean rest during the night. Washing your face before bed with a cleanser takes off any dirt or heavy foundation that accumulates on your skin during the day. By sticking to this hard habit, your skin will surely thank you in a few decades.

Annual Mole Check

Maybe not the most glamorous resolution, but still one you’ll want to make a habit of. It’s important to visit a dermatologist at least once a year to check out any curious, new growths on your skin. Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer and can be deadly if left untreated. It often appears as a small blemish on you skin and can often be mistaken for something less serious.

If you notice a new mole or freckle on your skin, be sure to follow these guidelines to determine if it’s abnormal. If you aren’t sure or if you have the least bit of worry, schedule an appointment with a medical professional. They’ll easily be able to examine and test the worrisome spot to see if it’s of any concern.

Keep Up with It

We know that the hardest part of a resolution is sticking with it. If you find yourself mid-February and falling out of your new skin care habits, don’t be afraid to recommit and work for better skin. Although the first day of a new year is excellent motivation to start the things you’ve been meaning to, it doesn’t dictate as your only chance for change. Change happens daily but can only be met through persistent determination. Choosing a resolution as simple as adding a moisturizer to your everyday routine may be the start towards becoming a better you.

Need help with your resolution towards better skin? The dermatologists at Knoxville Dermatology Group have years of practiced experience in suggesting products, checking moles and creating a healthier skin to live in. To make an appointment with any of our medical professionals, visit us   or give us a call at 865-690-9467.

Got Acne? Let Us Help.

Around 40 to 50 millionAmericans struggle with acne. You aren’t alone if you struggle from the most common skin condition nationwide. Acne happens when pores become clogged with dead skin cells and bacteria, causing inflammation, swelling and redness. As it surfaces on the face, these clogged pores are often referred to as zits or pimples. However, if the inflammation is deep within the skin, you may be experiencing an acne cyst or nodule. Dermatologists treat acne all the time and should be well versed in developing a treatment plan to fit your needs. If you suffer from acne, it may be time to visit your dermatologist.

When to see your dermatologist:

If you have acne that spread across your face, get acne nodules or cysts, or just want clearer skin, it is time to visit your dermatologist. Over the counter acne treatments and solutions work for everyday cases, but if you are not seeing clearer skin after continued use, you are probably dealing with a deeper issue. Don’t wait to try every cleanser or product at a drug store before considering medical care. 

How acne is diagnosed:

First, the dermatologist will examine your blemishes to see if the issue is in fact acne, or you are suffering from a different skin condition. If you have acne, a dermatologist will most likely grade the severity of it on a scale from one to four. A grade of one signals mild acne while a grade off our signals severe acne. By identifying the severity of your acne, the dermatologist can better devise a more effective treatment plan and get you on the path to clearer skin.

Acne treatment options:

  • Topical Treatment: Topical treatments are medications applied directly to the affected skin site, like applying a spot cream. Acne TreatmentAcne TreatmentWith topic treatments, your skin can soak in the medication it needs, a stronger treatment than drugstore products, right from the source. Other topical treatments include facial washes and creams. These can help treat some other issues of acne like redness and overactive oil glands.
  • Pills or Capsules: Antibiotics, birth control and isotretinoin are three medications that work throughout the body to treat the symptoms and causes of acne. Antibiotics can be prescribed by your dermatologist and will help kill bacteria that causes the inflammation and swelling of acne. Birth control can only be used by women and must be prescribed by a gynecologist. Using birth control can help regulate your hormones which often cause acne. 
  • Light Therapy: Light therapy, or phototherapy has been shown to reveal great results in the diminishing of acne and will reduce the probability of scarring. Talk to your dermatologist to see if phototherapy is right for you.
  • Chemical Peels: Chemical peels like those administered by the dermatologists at Knoxville Dermatology Group and the adjoined MediSpa, are great for getting rid of blackheads that can turn in to acne.
  • Acne Removal: If you experience acne cysts or nodules, where the pore is clogged deep within the skin, your dermatologist may suggest a procedure to remove the cyst. This will reduce the pain of acne cysts and the chances of sca

What comes next:

Results will not appear right away, so it’s important to continue your treatment plan. Even if you experience a break out well into your treatment, remember that there is no simple fix. By sticking to your skin care routine, clearer skin will be within reach. Finally, remember to keep your hands off your face and not try and pop acne, as this may lead to further scarring. If you suffer from acne and are ready to see better results and clearer skin, see the experienced dermatologists at Knoxville DermatologyGroup. To make an appointment call  (865)690-9467 or visit our website.

4 Common Skin Conditions Among Newborns

A new addition to the family is always a cause for joy and celebration. We know that some parents may worry more than others, especially if it’s their first. Now that the baby is here, there may be some unforeseen, but common, skin issues appearing. Some have no need for concern, but others do require your attention. Sometimes simple treatments do the trick, and others require a trip to the dermatologist. If one of the following skin issues does appear, here is how to care for your bundle of joy.

Diaper Rash

Diaper rash is very common for newborns and infants. The rash is caused by any number of things including excessive contact with fabrics, adhesives, urine, stool or with moisture even. You may notice your baby seems more uncomfortable or fussy than usual. If your baby has the red, scaly patches of diaper rash, it can be easily managed.

To prevent this rash, make sure you are frequently changing their diaper after they’ve soiled it. Clean areas covered by the diaper during each change. It’s wise to add a barrier cream or moisturizer so your baby’s skin doesn’t become dry with the wiping. If the rash persists, there are many effective, over-the-counter creams to heal and soothe the rash.

Cradle Cap

Seborrheic dermatitis, or cradle cap, appears as small, oily flakes on a newborn’s scalp. This is often caused by excessive oil production around the hair follicles. It is no cause for concern as it can naturally resolve itself.

However, there are simple treatments to help care for the affected areas and resolve cradle cap more quickly. By using a gentle, infant shampoo, the flakes can be loosened and fall off. A primary care physician can prescribe a medicated shampoo if symptoms persist. It is important to make note of the appearance of cradle cap, as it may be an indication of atopic eczema.

Atopic Eczema

If you are noticing rough, dry skin with a red color on your newborn’s cheeks, elbows or knees, it’s possible they have atopic eczema. There is no known cause for eczema, although it may stem from genetics. Eczema can be triggered by a number of things like soaps, detergents, high temperatures or dust mites. The condition may only remain through infancy or can occur throughout the newborn’s lifetime.

Eczema is extremely common and treatable, although it is not curable. For your baby, use a gentle, sensitive-skin bath soap and be sure to bathe them in cool or lukewarm water. Gently pat them dry and apply a gentle moisturizer to soothe the skin. Finally, if the symptoms persist, visit a dermatologist. They can prescribe a safe steroid to apply during a flare-up and help monitor the condition for the future.

Hemangioma

This is a type of birthmark that usually appears as a bright red, rubbery raised nodule, commonly on the face, neck or chest. Hemangiomas are actually a collection of blood vessels that have reached the skin’s surface. While a hemangioma may be present at birth, they often appear in the weeks following and grow in size.

Hemangiomas should not be a cause for concern and will reduce in size, eventually disappearing over time. However, if the birthmark is near the eyes or ears, it is important for a primary care physician or dermatologist to examine it and determine if it may impact your child’s vision or hearing. In this case, dermatologists can use laser treatments to shrink the hemangioma and protect your baby’s hearing or vision.

It is important to be proactive in treating conditions that may appear with your newborn. If you feel unsure about symptoms of your child, bring them to be examined by your dermatologist or primary care physician. If your newborn suffers from atopic eczema or has a hemangioma, the experienced dermatologists at Knoxville Dermatology Group are ready to help. Visit our website or give us a call to schedule an appointment at 865-690-9467.

Cooking this holiday season? Be sure you know how to treat minor cooking accidents.

Cooking this holiday season? Of course you are! The holidays are about two things, food and family. However, some of the most common kitchen injuries can leave you spending more time in the emergency room than around the table. Here is a list of the most common minor cooking accidents, how to treat them and when you should see a doctor or a dermatologist.

Burns

The holiday seasons are ripe with major and minor burns. The danger zones? Frying the turkey, boiling the macaroni and pulling the sweet potato casserole out of the oven, among many others. Whether the burn came from bumping over or touching a burning pan, it is important to treat the burn promptly and correctly. First, you need to determine the degree of the burn. Depending on how bad the burn is, you may have to seek medical treatment immediately:

  • First Degree Burn: Mild burn; results in pain and redness.
  • Second Degree Burn: More severe burn; damages the lower layer of the skin. A second degree burn may result in redness, swelling, blistering and pain.
  • Third Degree Burn: Most serious burn, affects all layers of skin and possibly deeper. May result in serious pain, blackened or charred skin.

The most common cooking accidents are mostly contained to first degree burns. First degree burns are also the only burn you should treat without the help of a medical professional. Although your initial instinct may be to run the burn under cold water, this traps the heat in your skin and makes the burn heal much slower. What you should do is apply a burn cream or anti-inflammatory, like aloe vera or antibiotic ointment. You can take any acetaminophen such as Tylenol to help with pain management. Be sure to regularly change out bandages and reapply creams to keep the burn sanitized.

For second and third degree burns, be sure to visit your doctor or dermatologist to receive correct burn treatment.

Cuts

As careful as you are during cooking, it’s easy to get a cut or accidentally slice your finger. Accidents happen, but it’s best to be prepared for when they do. Remember, only treat cuts yourself if they are minor flesh wounds. If you are unable to control the bleeding, visit the emergency room immediately.

If, however, you have a minor flesh wound there are three simple steps to keep in mind as you treat the cut.

  1. Clean the cut. You can clean out your cut by flushing it with a bit of rubbing alcohol or hydrogen peroxide, followed by antibacterial soap and water.
  2. Apply an antibacterial ointment like Neosporin. This will help the cut heal more quickly.
  3. Bandage cut tightly. This will allow you to keep cooking and to protect the wound from infection.

If you cut yourself too deeply and needed to take a trip to the emergency room for stitches or other wound treatment, you may develop a scar. Scar treatment looks different for everybody and is dependent on the severity of the wound. If you have scarring from a cut, a dermatologist can help you develop a treatment plan to lessen its appearance.

Eye Irritation

Eye irritation can occur during cooking, especially while preparing spicy foods or handling peppers. It is best to keep your hands away from the face during cooking and keeping them clean to avoid mishaps like eye irritation. If a bit of spice or pepper does reach your eye, causing a burning sensation, don’t panic. Most importantly, do not rub your eye. This will most likely cause more of the irritant to reach your eye, which will cause more pain. Secondly, go directly to the sink. Open your eye and begin to flush water into it. Do this until the irritant has been washed from your eye. You may experience redness after an episode like this. Using eye drops for eye irritation is okay, but the redness will recede naturally as well.

Accidents happen, so be prepared! If a more serious accident occurs, always seek medical help for correct treatment. If you have a cut or burn that leaves scarring, there are many ways to treat this. The experienced dermatologists at Knoxville Dermatology Group are ready to help you develop a treatment plan to reduce the appearance of scars and pigment irregularities. If you have a scar from a burn or cut and need help leaving it in the past, make an appointment, visit our website or call us at (865) 690-9467.

When is it Rosacea?

With so many different skin conditions out there, it’s hard to distinguish what exactly the condition is and how serious it can be.  Is it acne, irritation or something underlying that requires medical treatment? Either way, a skin condition, especially one on the face, can bring about self-esteem and social insecurities. Rosacea is a chronic condition that leaves a lasting redness or flushing on the cheeks, nose, chin or forehead. Doctors aren’t sure what the cause is or how to cure it, but there are medications and treatment options available to manage flare-ups. Rosacea is mistaken often as acne in its early stages, but if it is left untreated, the condition will become worse and can cause permanent damage to the skin. If you think you have rosacea, visit a dermatologist immediately to be diagnosed and to get an individualized treatment plan.

Acne vs. Rosacea

When rosacea looks like acne in its early-stages, it’s hard to determine the difference and when it’s time to see a dermatologist. Pimples and small, red bumps are common symptoms of rosacea. This is why the two often get mistaken for each other. Remember that rosacea usually affects the central region of the face. Acne will show up on the entire surface, as well as the shoulders, back and chest. Blackheads are another indicator that it’s probably acne.

Who Can Get Rosacea?

The answer is anybody. Over 16 million Americans suffer from rosacea . The development can appear in many forms and at any age, though it is typically only after the age of 30. The condition affects people from all skin types, but people with a fair skin tone are more susceptible. Blushing or becoming flushed easily is an indicator of early onset rosacea. While the condition is more frequent in women, it is more severe among men.

How Dermatologists Diagnose

There are many symptoms that lead dermatologists in diagnosing a patient with rosacea. Persistent redness and the thickening of the skin are the major signs that doctors can observe independently to make the diagnosis. The face having persistent redness, like an unfading sunburn, is a main indication of rosacea. In many cases, the skin on the face thickens, especially around the nose, which causes facial disfigurement or even insufficient nasal airflow. Secondary symptoms include:

  • A history of frequent blushing or flushing
  • Small, red bumps or pimples in the absence of blackheads or regular acne.
  • Visible blood vessels
  • Eye irritation
  • Swollen, dry skin that burns or stings

According to the National Rosacea Society, 90 percent of patients diagnosed with the condition have lowered self-esteem to the point that they avoid social contact and going out in public. Finding the correct way to manage rosacea for individual cases can help with this. Over 70 percent of the people surveyed said that the medical treatment of their condition dramatically improved their social and mental well-being.

Managing YOUR Rosacea

People who suspect they have rosacea should make an appointment with a dermatologist immediately to be diagnosed and to devise a personalized treatment plan. If left untreated, rosacea can permanently affect the appearance of the face by leaving the skin bumpy or swollen due to the excess tissue. Oral and topical medications are available for people to manage the condition. Anti-inflammatory therapy is required to control flare-ups in severe cases.

A delicate skin care routine is beneficial for people living with rosacea. Use a mild, non-irritating cleanser with lukewarm water. Sunscreen is necessary if the skin is going to be exposed to the sun. Use cosmetic foundations with a green tint to conceal the redness. Makeups that are pink or orange-based will only intensify the red color. Sun exposure, heat, alcohol, strong emotions, caffeine and spicy foods are all triggers that can cause a flare-up. Keep a journal or daily log of activities that coincide with the flare-ups, so you can start changing your lifestyle and start living your best life.

Ready to see a dermatologist to come up with an individualized treatment plan to help manage your rosacea? At Knoxville Dermatology Group, our doctors are committed to the best quality care and will always put you first. To make an appointment, visit us online or call us at (865) 690-9467.

 

How to Ensure Skin Conditions Don’t Keep Your Kids Out of School

School is officially back in session, and the kids are hard at work. Whether you’re relieved or not, it’s important to make sure they stay healthy for the whole year. Many parents forget that their kids come into contact with hundreds of children every day between the classroom, halls or recess. If not careful, you child could develop a skin-related illness or infection and pass it along to other kids. No one needs to miss school. These tips ensure your child will get the “Perfect Attendance” award at the end of the year.

Head Lice

Lice is the classic nuisance that schools will do everything in its’ power to prevent. Contrary to popular belief, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that students diagnosed with head lice do not need to be sent straight home. The organization suggests letting the student finish out the rest of the school day before going home and being treated. This is because head lice have not been shown to spread disease.

If your child does come home with lice, it’s important to follow these treatment instructions to ensure that they can return to school as soon as possible. To treat head lice, get an over-the-counter prescription lice medicine, called pediculicide, and read the measurement and how-to-use instructions that are provided. Comb the treatment through small stands of hair, one at a time, until all parts of the head have been treated. After eight to 12 hours, if the lice are still alive and active, repeat the treatment process. If the lice problem continues to persist, take a visit to a dermatologist.

It’s important to check the heads of everyone in the household and anyone who the child has recently come in contact with. All clothes, hats, bedding, towels or grooming aids must be washed and sanitized. Personal hygiene or cleanliness is not a factor that contributes to head lice. If someone in your child’s school gets lice, make sure all children in the class get checked immediately.

Shingles

Chickenpox used to be a common virus that most kids would get. With a vaccine in place now, the condition is becoming less common. However, anyone who has had a case of the chickenpox is at a slight risk of developing shingles, even children. Both chickenpox and shingles are caused by the varicella zoster virus. When a child gets chickenpox, the virus stays in the person’s nervous system forever. When the virus flares up again, it is considered shingles. This is pretty rare in children or teens with healthy immune systems.

A case of shingles will bring symptoms of tingling, itching or even pain before a rash appears. The rash will show up as a group of pimples on the body or face. After a week to ten days, the blisters will break open and scab over. It takes usually two to four weeks for the scabs to heal completely. Children might also experience fever, headache, fatigue or general muscle achiness with an outbreak. Shingles is extremely contagious, so make sure to keep you child home from school and away from friends.

Eczema

One in ten children will experience eczema before the age of five. Eczema is defined as numerous different skin conditions that leave the skin red and irritated. The skin will sometimes have small, red, fluid-filled bumps that ooze. Doctors aren’t sure what exactly causes the condition, but they do believe genetics plays a factor. Kids who develop eczema often have other family members with asthma, allergies or even hay fever.

Good skin care is the first step of treating eczema. In minor cases, a change to your daily habits and hygiene will do the trick. Using an unscented moisturizing or lotion will help keep the skin hydrated. Use it twice a day and after bathing. Dry air can irritate the condition, so doctors recommend keeping a dehumidifier in the room your child sleeps in. For any case of eczema, a dermatologist can prescribe physician-strength medicines and moisturizers.

Does you or your child have a skin condition that could affect them from going to school?  Our dermatologists are specialists in cases involving eczema, shingles and provide assistance for head lice. Call Knoxville Dermatology Group today at (865) 690-9467 or visit us online!

Don’t Let Athlete’s Foot Take You Out of the Game

Athlete’s foot, or tinea pedis, is a common foot infection that affects up to 70%  of the population as some point in time. The fungal condition causes the skin on the foot to itch, sting, burn or even peel. Athlete’s foot is contagious and is contracted by contact with the bacteria. The fungus thrives in warm, moist environments like showers, locker rooms or swimming pools. Although both athletes and non-athletes alike can suffer from athlete’s foot, the infection received its name since athletes frequent the places it’s most often acquired. It’s closely related to other fungal infections like ringworm and jock itch.

Although athlete’s foot is not life-threatening, it is still a fungal infection and can spread to other parts of the body. As kids go back to school and return to sports, or college students return to a communal shower, or you or your family spend time in the late summer heat, it’s important to know the signs and symptoms of athlete’s foot and how to treat it. We’ve broken down everything you need to know about athlete’s foot.

How It’s Acquired

Athlete’s foot is a contagious infection and is contracted by contact with someone or something carrying the bacteria. It’s most commonly caught by walking barefoot in public places like bathrooms or swimming pools. Sharing footwear with someone who has athlete’s foot is another way to contract the infection, or a skin or nail injury can also make people more susceptible.

What It Looks Like

Athlete’s foot may not always have the same appearance. Redness, scaling, dryness and cracks or peeling are all signs that can be present between the toes or the soles of the feet. For some, it produces itching and burning. The symptoms are similar to other conditions like contact dermatitis and psoriasis. Since it can be mistaken for these other conditions, it can be helpful to see a dermatologist.

How to Prevent It

The best way to prevent athlete’s foot is by practicing good hygiene. These tips can also help:

  • Wear shower shoes or sandals when walking around pools, locker rooms or public showers
  • Keep your feet dry and in clean socks and footwear
  • Make sure you dry your feet between the toes
  • Wear footwear made of natural fabrics which aren’t too tight and allow the feet to breath.
  • Spray your footwear with a disinfectant to kill germs
  • If someone in your household has athlete’s foot, do not share any towels, shoes or linens
  • Keep bathroom surfaces like showers and tubs clean

How to Treat It

Most cases of athlete’s foot are treated with over-the-counter remedies that come in the forms of powders, sprays, ointments and lotions. In most cases, the infection responds best to these treatments. One of the best home remedies is tea tree oil, an ingredient used in many over-the-counter treatments. The oil has both antifungal and antibacterial properties. To use, mix the oil with coconut oil and apply to the affected skin two to four times a day. Studies have also shown that ajoene, a chemical found in garlic, has healing and preventative properties.

It’s important to monitor athlete’s foot since if left untreated, or if the condition worsens, it can cause a secondary infection and tissue breakdown. It can become very painful. An allergic reaction can also occur causing blistering. Diagnosing it and treating it early is crucial as once it reaches the toe nails it’s difficult to eliminate.

When to Contact a Dermatologist

If the infection does not improve within a week, make an appointment with a dermatologist. A dermatologist will examine the feet and look at a skin scraping under a microscope to determine if fungus is present. In a matter of minutes, a diagnosis is achieved. If you experience recurring athlete’s foot, it can also be helpful to see a dermatologist. It could be another condition requiring an entirely different treatment. Also, if the athlete’s foot is severe, over-the-count remedies may not be effective and require anti-fungal pills taken by mouth.

To make an appointment with a dermatologist to inspect a worrisome case of athlete’s foot, call Knoxville Dermatology Group today at (865) 690-9467.