A high-potency, multimechanism skin care regimen provides significant antiaging effects: results from a double-blind, vehicle-controlled clinical trial.

Dec 2012

Farris PK, Edison BL, Brouda I, Weinkauf RL, Green BA.

Abstract

Skin aging is a multifaceted biological process characterized by the appearance of wrinkles, pigmentation irregularities, and loss of !rmness. These symptoms cannot be fully addressed by any single skin care ingredient or noninvasive cosmetic procedure. A comprehensive treatment approach, including the use of clinically proven topical skin care formulations, provides optimal antiaging effects. A high-strength skin care regimen (NeoStrata® Skin Active; NeoStrata Company, Inc, Princeton, NJ) was developed to deliver a combination of more than 35% active bene!t ingredients, including the......

Full Text Article:

Journal of Drugs in Dermatology

Do early skin care practices alter the risk of atopic dermatitis? A case-control study

Pediatr Dermatol. Author manuscript; available in PMC 2012 July 15.

Published in final edited form as:

Pediatr Dermatol. 2011 Sep-Oct; 28(5): 593–595.

Published online 2011 September 5.doi:  10.1111/j.1525-1470.2011.01384.x

Marla E. Rendell, M.D Shahana F. Baig-Lewis, M.P.H., Trista M. Berry, B.S.,^** Melissa E. Denny, M.D.,^* Brenda M. Simpson, B.A.,^* Peter A. Brown, B.S.,and Eric L. Simpson, M.D., M.C.R.^**

^ABSTRACT

Background

The rise in atopic dermatitis prevalence seen in industrialized countries in unexplained. Some authors have suggested that the increase in the use of skin care products is partly responsible. There are few studies examining skin care practices commonly used in treatment of children. We hypothesized that the use of moisturizers early in life may alter the risk for developing atopic dermatitis.

Methods

A case-control study utilizing two control groups was performed. Cases were defined as children under six years of age who developed atopic dermatitis. A normal control and a high-risk control group were used for comparison. Parents or caregivers of children were questioned regarding skin care practices used in early life in an attempt to identify practices that increased the risk of developing atopic dermatitis.

Results

The regular use of a moisturizer on the child during the first six months of life was very common in all groups, 76%, 74.7%, and 78% in the atopic, non-atopic, and high-risk groups, respectively. Because of the high rate of moisturizer use in all groups, no significant differences were found between groups. Watery lotions were the most commonly used moisturizer.

Conclusions

Despite published guidelines advising to the contrary, the regular use of moisturizers was common in this population. Although no one specific skin care practice was associated with atopic dermatitis, the frequent use of products potentially detrimental to the skin barrier raises concern.

Full Text Article

PubMed - NIH

Skin pH: From basic science to basic skin care.

Jan 2013

Ali SM, Yosipovitch G.

Source

Department of Dermatology, Wake Forest University Health Sciences, Medical Center Boulevard, Winston-Salem, NC 27157 , USA.

Abstract

The "acid mantle" is a topic not only of historical interest, but also of clinical significance and has recently been linked to vital stratum corneum function. Despite compelling basic science evidence placing skin pH as a key factor in barrier homeostasis, stratum corneum integrity, and antimicrobial defense, application of the acid mantle concept in clinical care is lacking. We review recent basic science investigations into skin pH, discuss skin disorders characterized by aberrant pH, and finally discuss practical application for preservation of the acid mantle. Recognizing factors that alter skin pH and selecting products that preserve the acid mantle is of prime importance in treating dermatologic patients.

Medical Journals

Safety and efficacy of personal care products containing colloidal oatmeal.

2012

Criquet M, Roure R, Dayan L, Nollent V, Bertin C.

Source

Johnson & Johnson Santé Beauté France, Issy les Moulineaux, France.

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

Colloidal oatmeal is a natural ingredient used in the formulation of a range of personal care products for relief of skin dryness and itchiness. It is also used as an adjunctive product in atopic dermatitis. The safety of personalcare products used on vulnerable skin is of particular importance and the risk of developing further skin irritations and/or allergies should be minimized.

METHODS:

In a series of studies, we tested the safety of personal care products containing oatmeal (creams, cleansers, lotions) by assessing their irritant/allergenic potential on repeat insult patch testing, in safety-in-use and ocular studies using subjects with nonsensitive and sensitive skin. We also tested the skin moisturizing and repair properties of an oatmeal-containing skin care product for dry skin.

RESULTS:

We found that oatmeal-containing personal care products had very low irritant potential as well as a very low allergenic sensitization potential. Low-level reactions were documented in 1.0% of subjects during the induction phase of repeat insult patch testing; one of 2291 subjects developed a persistent but doubtful low-level reaction involving edema during the challenge phase in repeat insult patch testing. No allergies were reported by 80 subjects after patch testing after in-use application. Sustained skin moisturizing was documented in subjects with dry skin that lasted up to 2 weeks after product discontinuation.

CONCLUSION:

Our results demonstrate that colloidal oatmeal is a safe and effective ingredient in 

Dove Press

Skin care tips to combat the effects of cold weather

By Tiffany Bentley | The Express-Times 
on November 04, 2012 at 7:06 AM, updated November 04, 2012 at 7:11 AM

Colder weather can take its toll even on the healthiest skin. Laura Parker, esthetician and owner of The Skin Clinic in Easton, offers the following basic tips on how to make sure the season doesn't diminish your glow

• Switch to a heavier lotion and cleanse the skin only once a day at night to prevent dryness. Over-cleansing the skin can actually strip the skin of necessary oils that keep it looking healthy.

• Try to take shorter showers. Winter usually means we take hotter showers, which zaps the skin of moisture. Make sure to moisturize head to toe immediately after and towel dry. The skin will be able to absorb the moisturizer more effectively if it is still moist.

• Don’t skip sunscreen. This is one of the biggest skin care mistakes people make during the winter. UVA and UVB rays are still out in the winter and you can even catch damage through your windshield driving to and from work. If you plan on spending a lot of time outside, such as skiing, make sure to wear an SPF of 30 or higher.

• Exfoliate. One of the best ways to prepare skin for winter and repair damage caused by the summer is exfoliation. Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) are my favorite form of exfoliation because they dissolve dead skin without the irritation of a harsh scrub. AHAs are also water-loving. After you use them they actually help bind moisture to the skin. They also increase cellular turnover, improving skin tone and texture. Common AHAs are glycolic acid (derived from sugar), lactic acid (derived from milk) and mandelic acid (derived from almonds). The Skin Clinic offers AHA exfoliating pads that retail at $15.

• Stay hydrated. Drink at least six to eight glasses of water a day. A healthy dose of water increases the body’s ability to remove toxins, which can lead to acne breakouts, dry skin and inflammation.

• Monitor the heater. As the weather becomes cold, we tend to crank up the heat, which can throw your skin's balance out of whack. The combination of an indoor heater and drier weather can cause skin to become dehydrated and as a result, send oil production into overdrive. This increase in oil or sebum production and skin dehydration can cause pore-clogging buildup and lead to breakouts.

• Treat yourself to a facial. Facials provide a professional level of exfoliation, balancing and deep cleansing the skin while addressing a multitude of skin conditions including acne, rosacea and prematurely aging skin. 

Information: skinclinicpa.com. 

Skin Care - The Big Four Amino Acids

Skin Care - The Big Four Amino Acids

Proline P 

Proline shares many properties with the aliphatic group.

Proline is formally NOT an amino acid, but an imino acid. Nonetheless, it is called an amino acid. The primary amine on the α carbon of glutamate semialdehyde forms a Schiff base with the aldehyde which is then reduced, yielding proline.

When proline is in a peptide bond, it does not have a hydrogen on the α amino group, so it cannot donate a hydrogen bond to stabilize an α helix or a β sheet. It is often said, inaccurately, that proline cannot exist in an α helix. When proline is found in an α helix, the helix will have a slight bend due to the lack of the hydrogen bond.

Proline is often found at the end of α helix or in turns or loops. Unlike other amino acids which exist almost exclusively in the trans- form in polypeptides, proline can exist in the cis-configuration in peptides. The cis and trans forms are nearly isoenergetic. The cis/transisomerization can play an important role in the folding of proteins and will be discussed more in that context.

Biology Arizona EDU

Glycine

Glycine is one of the non-essential amino acids and is used to help create muscle tissue and convert glucose into energy. It is also essential to maintaining healthy central nervous and digestive systems, and has recently been shown to provide protection via antioxidants from some types of cancer. 

Glycine is used in the body to help construct normal DNA and RNA strands—the genetic material needed for proper cellular function and formation. It helps prevent the breakdown of muscle by boosting the body’s levels of creatine, a compound that helps build muscle mass. High concentrations of glycine are found not only in the muscles, but in the skin and other connective tissues as well. Almost 1/3 of collagen, which keeps the skin and connective tissue firm and flexible, is composed of glycine. (High amounts of Glycine are also found in gelatin, which is a form of denatured collagen). Without glycine the body would not be able to repair damaged tissues; the skin would become slack as it succumbed to UV rays, oxidation, and free radical damage, and wounds would never heal. 

Glycine is considered a glucogenic amino acid, which means it helps supply the body with glucose needed for energy. It helps regulate blood sugar levels, and thus glycine supplementation may be useful for treating symptoms characterized by low energy and fatigue, such as hypoglycemia, anemia, and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS). 

Glycine is essential for a healthy, normally functioning digestive system. It helps regulate the synthesis of the bile acid used to digest fats, and is included in many commercial gastric antacid agents. 

Glycine is necessary for central nervous system function. Research has shown that this amino acid can help inhibit the neurotransmitters that cause seizure activity, hyperactivity, and manic (bipolar) depression. Glycine can also be converted to another neurotransmitter, serine, as needed, and may be beneficial in the management of schizophrenia. In one study, twenty-two schizophrenic patients, who did not initially respond to traditional treatments, added glycine to their ongoing antipsychotic medication and found that it significantly reduced their symptoms. Glycine intake among the participants ranged from 40 to 90 grams daily (0.8 grams per kilogram of body weight). More research concerning the effects of glycine on schizophrenia is underway. Studies have shown that glycine also helps improve memory retrieval loss in those that suffer from a wide variety of sleep-depriving conditions, including schizophrenia, Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, jet lag, and overwork. 

Results from preliminary studies of glycine as a potential treatment for cancer have been promising, and suggest that it may help prevent the development of cancerous tumors and melanoma. In laboratory mice, dietary glycine prevented tumor growth by inhibiting angiogenisis, the process by which tumors develop their own blood supply. Glycine also seems to play a role in keeping the prostate healthy. In one study, glycine was shown to help reduce the symptoms of prostatic hyperplasia in men. 

High-protein foods, such as fish, meat, beans, milk, and cheese, are the best dietary sources of glycine. Glycine is also available in capsule and powder forms, and as part of many combination amino acid supplements. There have been no toxic effects associated with glycine, although some people have reported that taking this supplement causes stomach upset. 

Individuals with kidney or liver disease should not consume glycine without consulting their doctor. Taking any one amino acid supplement can cause a disruption of the citric acid or Krebs cycle, and cause a build-up of nitrogen or ammonia in the body, which makes the liver and kidneys work harder to remove waste. Anyone taking antispastic drugs should consult a physician before supplementing with glycine, since it theoretically could increase the effects of these medications. 

Vitamin Stuff

Leucine

Leucine, an essential amino acid, is one of the three amino acid with a branched hydrocarbon side chain. It has one additional methylene group in its side chain compared with valine.

Biology Arizona EDU

Leucine (abbreviated as Leu or L)^[2] is a branched-chain α-amino acid with the chemical formula HO₂CCH(NH₂)CH₂CH(CH₃)₂. Leucine is classified as a hydrophobic amino acid due to its aliphatic isobutyl side chain. It is encoded by six codons (UUA, UUG, CUU, CUC, CUA, and CUG) and is a major component of the subunits in ferritin, astacin and other 'buffer' proteins. Leucine is an essential amino acid, meaning that the human body cannot synthesize it, and it therefore must be ingested.

Info Page: Wikipedia

Lysine

Overview:

Lysine, or L-lysine, is an essential amino acid. That means it is necessary for human health, but the body can't manufacture it. You have to get lysine from food or supplements. Amino acids like lysine are the building blocks of protein. Lysine is important for proper growth, and it plays an essential role in the production of carnitine, a nutrient responsible for converting fatty acids into energy and helping to lower cholesterol. Lysine appears to help the body absorb calcium, and it plays an important role in the formation of collagen, a substance important for bones and connective tissues including skin, tendon, and cartilage.

Most people get enough lysine in their diet, although athletes, vegans who don't eat beans, as well as burn patients may need more. Not enough lysine can cause fatigue, nausea, dizziness, loss of appetite, agitation, bloodshot eyes, slow growth, anemia, and reproductive disorders. For vegans, legumes (beans, peas, and lentils) are the best sources of lysine.

Dietary Sources:

Foods rich in protein are good sources of lysine. That includes meat (specifically red meat, pork, and poultry), cheese (particularly parmesan), certain fish (such as cod and sardines), nuts, eggs, soybeans (particularly tofu, isolated soy protein, and defatted soybean flour), spirulina, and fenugreek seed. Brewer's yeast, beans and other legumes, and dairy products also contain lysine. Many nuts also contain lysine along with arginine (lysine counteracts some of the effects of arginine). So if someone is trying to eat a diet rich in lysine to prevent HSV outbreaks, nuts would be a good choice.

Full text Page:  University of Maryland Medical Center

Amino Acids and Skin Care

About Amino Acid Skin Care

A lot has been said in recent years about amino acid skin care as an anti-aging treatment, and there is much left to be determined and discovered. Amino acids do seem to have a positive effect on prematurely aging skin, although you have to be careful how you mix them with other skin care products.

Truths About Amino Acid Skin Care

When it comes to the pursuit of the fountain of youth, there is always something new, and people often jump on the bandwagon before they really know what they're cheering about. It's only after a lot of people have spent a lot of money that they discover a product may not really be worth its packaging.

Thus far, amino acids do seem to provide some genuine benefits to the skin. Amino acids, at their essence, are peptides. These are proteins, which can have a positive effect upon cells. They can help improve skin that has been scarred or has stretch marks. When used correctly, amino acids seem to be more powerful than an alpha-hydroxy system of skin care in terms of filling lines, smoothing skin and improving tone and color. Even better, they can achieve this with less irritation and photosensitivity.

It's also understood that amino acids, applied externally in the right formula and also taken internally, can improve the skin's ability to stay hydrated. Properly hydrated skin not only takes and holds cosmetics better, but looks and feels more youthful.

The Big Four Amino Acids

In talking about amino acid skin care, there are four main acids that are known to be an effective combination in building collagen. These acids are Proline, Glycine, Leucine and Lysine. Together, this formula acts as an exfoliant, works to improve moisture retention and also acts as an antioxidant, thus strengthening your skin even in harsh weather conditions.

A Trademarked Formula

One of the most popular formulas of amino acid treatments is the trademarked AFA, which stands for amino acid filaggrin-based antioxidants. More study is needed to determine if this is the best formula for externally-applied amino acids, but so far it seems to be a good exfoliant and antioxidant that's not too harsh. Fine lines and overall skin texture show considerable improvement, as do the look of scars or age spots. AFAs are being used in conjunction with peels and laser treatments to speed progress and promote overall skin health.

Internal Amino Acids

Since you are what you eat, it stands to reason that one of the best ways to improve your beauty regimen is through your diet. Amino acids cannot be created in the body, so they must be obtained via food. One way to be sure you're getting your essential amino acids is if a particular food provides a complete protein. Eggs, milk and many meats are among these. You can also get amino acids via leafy greens, fish, nuts, beans and soy. If you mix protein sources through the day, you are sure to achieve your proper balance of amino acids, thus nourishing your skin from the inside out.

From: Love to Know / Skin Care

The Role of Skin Care in Lymphedema Managementt

The Role of Skin Care in Lymphedema Management

Skin care plays an essential role in both prevention of lymphedema in those patients at risk of developing this condition, and in the management of existing lymphedema. Current methods of cancer treatment lower the risk of developing lymphedema. However, if a patient had surgery involving the lymphatic system – a radical mastectomy for example – even many years ago, the risk for developing lymphedema will always be present, even if this patient never had any arm swelling. 

Prevention is in the patients’ best interest and a great tool to avoid the onset of lymphedema. The skin is the first line of defense against foreign invaders and is usually impermeable to bacteria and other pathogens. However, any defect in the skin such as burns, chafing, dryness, cuticle injury, cracks, cuts, splinters, and insect bites can present an entry site for pathogens or infectious agents and cause infection.

Patients who already have, or had lymphedema are susceptible to infections of the skin and nails. Lymphedematous tissues are saturated with protein-rich fluid, which serves as an ideal nutrient source for bacteria and other pathogens. Lymphedematous skin also tends to be dry and may become thickened and scaly, which increases the risk of skin cracks and fissures.  

Editor's note: See the full text of this article in

Lymphedema Today

This is an excellent website and you may want to take time to wander through it

How to Choose Skin Care Products

How to Choose Skin Care Products

Mon, 17 Dec 2007 16:01:29

The high absorption ability of the skin makes it necessary for individuals to choose personal skin care products with outmost care.

As a result, using personal care products containing one or probably more of the following ingredients is dangerous.

· Mineral Oil, Paraffin, and Petrolatum - Petroleum products coat the skin like plastic, clog the pores and create toxins, which can slow down cellular development and result in early aging.

· Parabens - It is widely used as a preservative in the cosmetic industry (including moisturizers) and is a carcinogen. It also has hormone-disrupting qualities and interferes with the body's endocrine system.

· Phenol carbolic acid - Found in many lotions and skin creams. It can cause circulatory collapse, paralysis, convulsion, coma and even death caused by respiratory failure.

· Propylene glycol - it is used as a moisturizer in cosmetics and as a carrier in fragrance oils. It can cause dermatitis, kidney or liver abnormalities, and may inhibit skin cell growth or cause skin irritation.

· Acrylamide - Which is found in many hand and face creams, is linked to different tumors.

· Sodium laurel or lauryl sulfate (SLS) - also known as sodium laureth sulfate (SLES) - Found in car washes, engine degreasers, garage floor cleaners and in over 90% of personal care products.

It breaks down the skin's moisture barrier, easily penetrates the skin, and allows other chemicals to easily penetrate as well.

Combined with other chemicals, SLS becomes a 'nitrosamine', a potent class of carcinogen. It can also cause hair loss. SLES is sometimes disguised with the labeling 'comes from coconut' or 'coconut-derived'.

· Toluene - Poison! Danger! Harmful or fatal if swallowed! Harmful if inhaled or absorbed through the skin. Made from petroleum or coal tar, and found in most synthetic fragrances.

Chronic exposure is linked to anemia, lowered blood cell count, liver or kidney damage, and may affect the developing fetus.

· Dioxane - Found in compounds known as PEG, Polysorbates, Laureth, ethoxylated alcohols. It is common in a wide range of personal care products and is considered a carcinogen.

*Contributed by Anne, RN and member. Moderator of Advocates for Lymphedema

The Role of Skin Care in Lymphedema Management

Skin care plays an essential role in both prevention of lymphedema in those patients at risk of developing this condition, and in the management of existing lymphedema. Current methods of cancer treatment lower the risk of developing lymphedema. However, if a patient had surgery involving the lymphatic system – a radical mastectomy for example – even many years ago, the risk for developing lymphedema will always be present, even if this patient never had any arm swelling.

Prevention is in the patients’ best interest and a great tool to avoid the onset of lymphedema. The skin is the first line of defense against foreign invaders and is usually impermeable to bacteria and other pathogens. However, any defect in the skin such as burns, chafing, dryness, cuticle injury, cracks, cuts, splinters, and insect bites can present an entry site for pathogens or infectious agents and cause infection.

Patients who already have, or had lymphedema are susceptible to infections of the skin and nails. Lymphedematous tissues are saturated with protein-rich fluid, which serves as an ideal nutrient source for bacteria and other pathogens. Lymphedematous skin also tends to be dry and may become thickened and scaly, which increases the risk of skin cracks and fissures.

The process of inflammation may not only make lymphedema much worse by increasing the swelling, but can also develop into a serious medical crisis. The basic consideration in skin and nail care is therefore the prevention and control of infections, which includes proper cleansing and moisturizing techniques with the goal of maintaining the health and integrity of the skin.

Suitable ointments or lotions formulated for sensitive skin, radiation dermatitis and lymphedema should be applied before the application of lymphedema bandages while the patient is in the decongestive phase of the treatment. Once the limb is decongested and the patient wears compression garments, moisturizing ointments should be applied twice daily.

Ointments, as well as soaps or other skin cleansers used in lymphedema management, should have good moisturizing qualities, contain no fragrances, be hypo-allergenic and should be in either the neutral or acidic range of the pH scale (around pH 5). To identify possible allergic reactions to skin care products, they should be first tested on healthy skin before the initial application to areas affected by lymphedema.

Tight fitting compression sleeves or stockings, as well as materials used in compression bandaging may also cause skin irritation. Some patients may be allergic to a certain material used for compression therapy. This situation can be remedied by switching to other materials.

In mosquito infected areas it is necessary to apply insect repellents to the affected extremity (some moisturizers contain natural repellents) to avoid bites, which are a common cause for infections.

For an excellent resource regarding all aspects of skin care, I would like to refer you to this link: http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/wiki/doku.php?id=skin_care

For a more in-depth look at other measures to avoid the onset of lymphedema, stay tuned for future blogs on this site.

**Editor's note: This is a great site for dependable, trustworthy information on lymphedema. The author/creator is Joachim Zuther, founder of the Academy of Lymphatic Studies (ACOL)

Lymphedema Today

Practical Tips and Helpful hints for skin care

Practical Tips for Skin Care

The skin is the body's first line of defense. It protects the body from trauma and infection and aids in temperature regulation. Therefore it is essential to keep the skin healthy. Individuals who have had any impairment of the lymphatic system are especially at risk for developing an infection. Any small cut or abrasion can allow bacteria to enter the skin and the stagnant lymphatic fluid is a perfect milieu in which bacteria can grow.

Simple measures which will promote healthy skin:

1. Inspect the skin daily for any crack, cuts or dry areas. Check carefully areas with reduced sensation or where there are skin folds.

2. Clean skin daily with non-perfumed soap

3. Dry skin completely, especially the area between the toes

4. Keep skin supple. Use a Iow pH lotion as Eucerin to keep the skin moist and pliable.

5. Check fingernails and toenails for any signs of infection, cracks, fungus, or hangnails. Do not cut nails or cuticles. Use an emery board.

6. Call your doctor at the first signs of any infection, redness or temperature.

People who have lymphedema, diabetes or vascular disease are at risk for infections.

Helpful Hints on Skin care

1. To care for corns and calluses, do not use over the counter medications such as Dr. Scholl's corn pads as they contain acid. After the bath or shower, when the skin is softened, buff the skin to remove the dead skin and soften calluses.

2. Corns can develop between the 4th and 5th toes as the foot swells. Fungus can also develop, which can lead to infections. Changing to larger or wider shoes may alleviate the development of corns. Use lambs wool in between the toes to reduce friction.

3. When you trim your toe nails, round the edges to prevent ingrown toenails. Boil clippers for one minute and let cool for one hour before using.

4. Dry you feet very well after bathing, especially between the toes. Do not use alcohol on your feet. Use a Iow pH lotion.

5. If you are unable to cut your toe nails, see a Podiatrist regularly.

6. Use a mild, unscented lotion after bathing. (LYMPHODERM.)

7. Wash your elastic compression sleeves/stockings and stockinet for compression bandaging daily.

8. Use an electric razor to remove hair on affected areas to minimize risk of nicks and scratches

9. Avoid sunburn. Always protect your skin from being injured from the sun.

Lymphedema Skin Care Information

Because of the compromised condition of a lymphovenous limb, we are often susceptible to a large number of skin complications. These may include various skin growths such as skin tags, warts, dermatofibromas, lymphangiomas, rashes, fungal infections, superficial bacterial infections infections which include as impetigo, folliculitis, carbuncles, furuncles and boils and weeping sores.

With lymphedema, some types untreated skin conditions can lead to serious consequences including systemic infections (sepsis), gangrene, amputation and even death.

We should daily, before wrapping or bandaging,use skin lotion to help keep the skin soft and to prevent chapping or cracking from dryness. Our skin is the front line of defense against invasive bacterial or fungal infections.

Good skin health is critical to our overall good health

The information below is taken from a variety of sources and are all good helpful info on keeping our skin healthy.

Pat