The research, conducted by French scientists at the department of dermatology at Archet Hospital in Nice, suggests that skin irritation due to shaving, clipping or waxing the genital area could explain the increase of a sexually transmitted disease called molluscum contagiosum.

Lead author of the study, Dr. Francois Desruelles, said:

“Genital hair removal has become a fashion phenomenon in the last decade. At the same time, the number of cases of molluscum contagiosum has risen.”

Removing Genital Hair Could Increase Risk of Pox Infection

Molluscum contagiosum manifests as rash, which is usually seen in children or people with impaired immune systems, but it can also be sexually transmitted. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the molluscum rash usually disappears within a year without treatment and typically does not leave scarring.

To find the link, the study authors analyzed 30 infected French patients who sought treatment from an unnamed private skin care clinic in Nice during 2011 and 2012. The average age of the patients was around 30 years, and 24 of them were men, all of whom displayed the signs of infection – pearl-like, raised skin bumps – some more severe than others.

Nevertheless, the researchers found that all of the patients had undergone pubic hair removal, with shaving being the top method of choice. 10 percent chose waxing and 13 percent chose clipping.

The findings also showed that one-third of the patients suffered from other skin issues, such as warts, bacterial skin infections, cysts, scars, and/or ingrown hairs.

The authors theorized that the pox virus might actually spread through self-infection – scratching irritated skin – provoked by the hair removal process. Personal hygiene was also considered as a likely factor of self-infection, however genital shaving in particular appeared to elevate infection risk.

Desruelles explained that laser hair removal and waxing were likely to be less risky hair removal techniques since they leave no microscopic cuts or bleeding.

The study was published in online in the journal Sexually Transmitted Infections, March 19, 2013.

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Upon first appearance the Luna Mini, developed by Foreo, looks nothing like a cleaning device, let alone one for such a sensitive area of the body. However the patented V-Frequency technology is said to ‘remove makeup, dirt and oil up to 6 times more effectively than washing by hand.’

Luna Mini Silicone Brush

The high-frequency pulses together with the non-abravise silicone brushes, also help to unblock follicles, clear acne, enlarged pores and oily patches.

The device charges via a concealable USB cable, and provides up to 300 washes on a single charge. It’s also waterproof, light, travel friendly and comes with a 10 year warranty.

The Luna Mini is set to sell for around $130 dollar when it starts shipping later this year.

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Developed by Strathclyde University researchers in the UK, and commercialized by Swedish company called Intellego Technologies, the disposable wristband warns the user that their safe time under the sun is up by turning form yellow to pink. To do this, a special acid-releasing agent inside the wristband reacts to UV light, and a dye that responds to pH levels then turns color as more acid is released.

UV Reative Wristband Helps To Prevent Sunburn

Since different skin complexions can tolerate the sun for longer periods of time, the company will offer a range of wristbands with a more or less sensitive responsiveness to UV rays.

The wristbands are set to go on sale next year, and will sell for around 20 cents each.

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The MiraDry procedure uses electromagnetic energy to heat up and destroy sweat glands. The procedure is completely non invasive so no incisions are involved, it can be performed in an outpatients ward, or doctors office, and the results are said to be immediate and long lasting, according to the company.

MiraDry Eliminates Excessive Perspiration

The new treatment is performed after a local anesthetic is administered, the device then uses a suction cup to stabilize the skin and bring the sweat glands closer for treatment. This also helps to protect the deeper tissues.

Focused electromagnetic energy is then blasted at the glands, while a cooling system helps keep the heat at safe levels. And since sweat glands do not grow back, the results are permanent and extremely effective.

Since sweat glands help the body cool, its not mentioned whether this type of technique might increase perspiration from other parts of the body. Nevertheless, there’s a lot to be said about not having dripping wet underarms, and stinky shirts.

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The free app, called UMSkinCheck, uses a series of 23 photos that cover the entire body, to create a baseline for the comparison of future photos.

The app, developed at the University of Michigan, guides the user on how to take the pictures. Built-in reminders then prompt them to perform regular self-check ups. UMSkinCheck also includes a risk calculator that helps users determine their individual risk.

UMSkinCheck iPhone App Screens For Skin Cancer

Michael Sabel, lead physician in app development and associate professor of surgery at the U-M Medical School, said in a school news release:

“Whole body photography is a well-established resource for following patients at risk for melanoma…

“However, it requires a professional photographer, is not always covered by insurance, and can be an inconvenience. Now that many people have digital cameras on their phones, it’s more feasible to do this at home.”

According to the Skin Cancer Foundation around 2 million American’s are diagnosed with some form of skin cancer every year, and one in five American’s are expected to develop the disease at some point during their lives.

Since regular skin checks are one of the most effective diagnostic methods, the new app could potentially help thousands of people catch skin cancer before it’s too late.

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Unusually Ways To Treat Sunburn

7 Ways To Treat Sunburn At Home

Yoghurt

The fat and enzymes in yoghurt help soothe the skin and moisturize painful sunburns.

Tomatoes

Puree a frozen tomato and apply directly to the affected areas can help cool the skin.

Oatmeal

A warm oatmeal bath exfoliates the skin and has anti-inflammatory properties.

Milk Bath

A milk bath contains lactic acid, which is great for exfoliating the skin and attracting moisture to dry areas.

Green Tea

Warm green tea can offer immediate relief when applied to burnt areas.

Cornstarch

Lightly sprinkling cornstarch on small affected areas can offer temporary relief from chaffing.

Apple Cider Vinegar

A mixture made from two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar and two cups of water can offer relief when applied to the skin with a cloth. If the soak leaves you’re skin dry, follow up with an aloe vera moisturizer.

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Fortunately, by following a few simple rules, you can reduce these symptoms to give your face a smooth glowing appearance.

Easy Tips To Manage Oily Skin

Tips for dealing with oily skin

Use the right cleanser

Some people believe that using acne products can actually make the skin produce more oil, however as Jessica Wu, MD, clinical assistant professor of dermatology at the University of Southern California Medical School explains, “Your oil glands will produce the same amount of oil regardless of how you treat it on the outside.” Only change on a biological level could increase/decrease oil production – like a shift in hormones for example.

Harsh cleansers strip the skin of its essential nutrients and oils that help the skin look healthy, so picking the strongest certainly isn’t the way to go.

Try using a face wash that contains salicylic acid, which helps absorb oil for your morning wash, and a milder cleanser for second wash.

Use moisturiser

Many people with oily skin also chose not to use moisturizer because they believe it adds to the greasy complexion, but that isn’t completely true.

Oily skin can still become dry and dehydrated, and omitting moisturizer from your daily cleansing routine only leaves your face exposed to the elements responsible for this – cold whether for example.

Moisturizer offers a layer of protection for the skin, which reduces the risk of dryness and irritation. June Jacobs, founder of June Jacobs Spa Collection advises using a ‘lightweight moisturizer containing hyaluronic acid and natural remedies such as lemon-peel extract – which have astringent and antibacterial properties,’ and ‘non-comedogenic formulas that won’t clog pores — a concern for those with overactive sebum glands.’

Don’t touch your skin

Oily skin is more prone to breakouts of acne due to over active sebum glands. And when the skin develops blackheads and whiteheads, it can be easy to starting picking at them.

This is perhaps the biggest ‘no-no’ since the fingers carry bacteria that increase the breakouts.

Jacobs recommends using a toner after cleansing to help combat breakouts. Try to find a toner that has antibacterial and oil-absorbing properties. And check for ingredients like lactic, glycolic or salicylic acid, which help exfoliate your skin and keep pores clear.

Eat the right fats

Not all fat increases the oil production of the skin. In fact some fats, like the omega-3 fatty acids found in salmon, are actually good for the skin.

So, while dairy products, and processed foods like muffins, bread and pasta have been linked to worse acne breakouts, other foods such as salmon, flax seed, walnuts and tofu have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce the breakout of spots.

Stop using powder

Baby powder and make-up are often applied as way to cover up oily skin, but Wu advises putting the powder down and opting for blotting sheets to soak up excess oil:

“Instead of dabbing your nose with powder, which can mix with your skin’s oils and turn it into a pasty mess, use blotting papers without powder for best results,”

Don’t over use products

Using a barrage of so-called ‘gentle cleansers’ is not good for the skin. Paul Jarrod Frank, MD, clinical associate professor of dermatology at New York University School of Medicine and GoodSkin Labs’ Global Consulting Dermatologist explains:

“I see many people with oily skin who over-indulge in products because they want to dry the skin out, which causes it to become irritated…

“Oily skin doesn’t mean it’s not sensitive skin, and using too many products with multiple ingredients could do more harm than good.”

Jarrod advises introducing one product at a time, and allowing time for your skin to adjust. Start with a salicylic-acid product and allow your skin to adjust before adding another ingredient like glycolic acid or a retinoid.

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The condition can be extremely difficult to live with and often causes severe itching, which in turn leads to further irritation when scratched.

Thankfully there are several things you can do to relieve the itching, and these simple practices can easily be added to, or removed from, your daily routine.

How Relieving Itching Caused By Psoriasis

Tips To Relieve Symptoms Of Psoriasis

Avoid Perfume and Scented Products

Any cleaning products that are scented – from facial cleansers to clothing detergents – can drastically increase the symptoms of psoriasis. Stick to products that are ‘fragrance free’ or ‘hypoallergenic’.

Take Short Baths In Luke Warm Water

Hot baths dry out the skin, and dry skin means more itching. To avoid stripping your skin of its natural moisturizers take tepid showers and baths for short periods only.

Use Mild Cleanser

Harsh skin cleansers also remove the natural moisturizers from the skin, and without these oils the skin dries out much quicker. Try using a mild cleanser for sensitive skin and be sure not to lather on too much since even mild cleanser can dry out the skin when used in excess.

Take a Medicated Bath

Epson salts, Dead Sea salts and even oatmeal can be added to luke warm water to make a medicated bath perfect for the skin. Be sure not to soak for too long, and follow the recommendations on the package.

Pat Skin Dry

Vigours rubbing of the skin increases inflammation and irritation. To be gentle to your skin, pat yourself dry with a towel after washing.

Apply Moisturizer Regularly

Moisturizers offer a layer of protection between the skin the elements of the outside world, they also help trap in the skins natural moisturizers. Try applying a thick moisturizer, not a lotion, directly after washing for best results.

Apply Antihisthamines

Antihistamines work by numbing the nerve pathways related to itching. Some brands can cause drowsiness, so try a non-drowsy formula in the morning, and something like Benadryl at night.

Apply Ice

Ice helps numb the nerve endings, which can reduce the pain and itching of psoriasis lesions.

Wrap Up at Night

If you’re itching worst at night, try applying ointment to your skin and wrapping it in plastic while you sleep. Gloves or cotton socks also help cream from coming of your skin in the night.

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The development facial lines – or nasolabial folds – can be determined by a number of factors. Elie Levine, MD, a New York City plastic surgeon explains:

“If you look at your mom, dad, or older sibling and they have them, there is a great chance you will also develop them. Secondary factors that can lead to deep puppet lines include loss of collagen and elastin (the building blocks of the skin), weight fluctuations, smoking, and sun exposure.”

While there’s nothing you can do to stop the years from rolling on, there are things you can do to help reduce the signs of aging.

Preventing Facial Wrinkles in Your 30s and 40s

You could be suitable to use filler like Juvederm or Restylane. This needle free treatments use nanotechnology and hydraulic acid to help the filler penetrate the skin. The procedure pushes up and supports the folds that create deep lines and the results last around 12 – 18 months.

Preventing Facial Wrinkles in Your 40s and 50s

Botox is a popular treatment used by many to help prevent facial wrinkles. The active ingredient, botulinum toxin, works by relaxing the muscles around the mouth, which in turn reduces the appearance of deep lines.

Dealing Facial Wrinkles in Your 60s and Beyond

If you’ve already developed deep facial wrinkles you’re best option could be cosmetic surgery or dermatology procedures. Many see good results from a facelift or neck-lift. Others opt for Laser skin treatments, which can remove fine lines and tighten the skin.

What You Can Do at Home To Prevent Facial Wrinkles

The best treatment is always preventative, so it’s important to take care of your skin at all times. That simply means protecting your skin from the sun, and maintaining a balanced diet.

Try eating food rich in antioxidants such as berries, broccoli and carrots. These super-foods help the collagen and elastin below the surface of the skin stay healthy and supple.

Maintaing a healthy weight is also important. Most people are aware that significant weight shifts can cause stretchmarks, and this can also happen around the face and neck. It’s also best to be a non-smoker, as the smoke can destroy collagen and elastin in the skin. Retinoid cream can help too. Levine said:

“Retinol slowly thickens the deeper layers of the skin, while thinning out the superficial layers. This softens fine marionette lines, making the skin look more youthful.”

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Now, the 69-year-old unnamed driver has severe wrinkles and lines on the left side of his face – where for years the sun has beating down on his skin through the driver-side window.

The New England Journal diagnoses the ‘thickening and wrinkling of the skin’ as a photoaging condition known as dermatoheliosis – caused by exposure to UVA and UVB rays. Sufferrers of dermtoheliosis develop hyperkeratosis – a the thickening of the stratum corneum, or outer most layer of the skin, consisting of dead cells.

Ageing Wrinkles On One Side Of Truck Drivers Face

The team noted that the damage had been caused by both UVA and UVB rays, and although UVB rays have been linked to a higher rate of photocarcinogenesis, UVA rays have also been shown to ‘induce substantial DNA mutations, which can ‘lead to the formation of skin cancer.’

According to the report doctors are treating the man with topical retinoids and sun cream, whilst periodically monitoring him for skin cancer.

A doctor from a team of Northwestern University researchers who also studied the man concluded:

“The biggest take-home message from all of this is that you can get UV radiation through window glass even if you are just running an errand.”

One person’s story is usually no reason to follow suit, but since medical experts have been telling us for decades how damaging UV rays really are, perhaps this one man’s story serves as a just reminder to always wear sun block and protect your skin from the sun.

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