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

Antioxidant nutrients and skin protection

Free radical damage is one of the principal mechanisms of aging. Free radicals are highly and indiscriminately reactive chemicals that can damage any structure in living cells. The most common source of free radicals is normal burning of fuel that occurs in every cell every minute of every day. (Generally, the more free radicals a species produces, the shorter its life span.) Skin suffers additional free radical damage from sunlight and pollutants. Topical antioxidants provide some protection against environmental damage to the skin and may be somewhat effective in slowing down the skin aging. However, topical antioxidants are relatively unreliable. Their effect depends on skin permeability, other ingredients in the cream and many other factors. It appears that increasing oral intake of some antioxidants may additionally protect skin from free radicals. Keep in mind, however, that relatively little solid research has been done specifically on skin benefits of oral or topical antioxidants and much of the supporting evidence is indirect.

A very important chemical property for an oxidant is its solubility in water and fat (or oil). Basically, living organisms have two types of internal media, watery extra- and intracellular space and oily membranes that serve as partitions enclosing individual cells and various intracellular compartments. Water-soluble antioxidants are effective mainly in extra- and intracellular fluid, whereas fat-soluble antioxidants protect biological membranes. Both types of antioxidants are needed to create an effective shield against free radicals for the entire body, and skin in particular.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E is a principal fat soluble antioxidant vitamin in the body. It protects cellular membranes, lipoproteins and other “oily” structures. Skin is high in unsaturated fatty acids (“oily” molecules especially susceptible to free radical damage), and can benefit from vitamin E protection (both oral and topical).

Flavonoids

Flavonoids are a diverse group of plant pigments with antioxidant properties. These substances are responsible for color in many fruits, vegetables and flowers. In addition to providing color that attracts insects or animals, these pigments protect plants from environmental stress. In addition to being potent antioxidants, some flavonoids have antiallergic, anti-carcinogenic, anti-viral and anti-inflammatory activity. Over 4,000 flavonoids have been characterized and classified, but only a few have been researched. As far as skin benefits are concerned, two classes of flavonoids appear to be especially beneficial: proanthocyanins (found in grapes and pine bark) and polyphenols (found in green tea).

Coenzyme Q10, Lipoic acid, Cysteine, Methionine

Coenzyme Q10, lipoic acid, cysteine and methionine are potent antioxidants. But they also play other roles that are at least as important as their antioxidant activity. See also the article about conditionally essential nutrients in this section.

From Smart Skin Care

...........

How do antioxidants affect the skin?

If you're like most people, you want smooth, healthy skin, but maybe you don't want to wade through hundreds of chemically laden products to get it. That's where antioxidants can help. Incorporating the right antioxidants into your diet and skin care routine can have a positive effect on your skin.

Antioxidants are nutrients (vitamins and minerals) and enzymes (proteins inside your body) that can help to prevent and repair damage to your body's tissue. Antioxidants do this by slowing or preventing the effect of free radicals, which start oxidation -- a process that causes damage from oxygen that can lead to cell dysfunction. If you've seen a peeled apple turn brown, you've seen oxidation in action. As antioxidants block the effects of free radicals, they end up being oxidized. This is why it's important to constantly replenish your supply of antioxidants.

Free radicals may also play a role in heart disease, cancer and other conditions [source: American Dietetic Association]. You can find antioxidants -- such as beta-carotene, lutein, lycopene, selenium and vitamins A, C and E -- naturally in many foods, including fruits and vegetables, nuts, grains, some meats, poultry and fish [source: MedlinePlus].

When it comes to caring for your skin, antioxidants can help to protect your skin from the damaging effects of the sun. Unlike sunscreens and moisturizers, antioxidants can protect your skin from the inside out by guarding your cells from damage. Vitamins A, C and E and the mineral selenium are thought to be particularly helpful in skin care. In addition to helping fortify cells against free radicals, vitamins A and C also encourage cell and tissue growth, helping the body to repair itself. This is very helpful to the skin, which is constantly shedding and regrowing cells. For this reason, any antioxidants that protect cells and encourage cell growth could be helpful in an anti-aging regimen, as they may help fight fine lines and wrinkles [source: WebMD].

Just like when adding any supplement to your diet, be careful when incorporating antioxidants into your daily routine. Though they are naturally good for you, antioxidants taken in excess can be harmful -- so be sure to follow the recommended amounts. In most cases, all you need to fulfill your body's quota for antioxidants is a healthy and balanced diet. In fact, it's a good idea to talk to your doctor before increasing your intake of any supplement.

For further study:  Discovery Fit & Health

Skin Growths in Lymphedema

Skin Growths in Lymphedema


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,and rashes, fungal infections.  This is in addition to the many infections associated with lymphedema  superficial bacterial infections which include as impetigo, folliculitis, carbuncles, furuncles and boils and weeping wounds or sores.

With lymphedema, some types untreated skin conditions can lead to serious consequences including systemic infections (sepsis), gangrene, amputation and even death.  Good skin care and health is critical to our overall good health.


Skin Growths


Skin growths are accumulations of various types of cells that look different than the surrounding skin. They may be raised or flat and range in color from dark brown or black to flesh-colored to red. Skin growths may be present at birth or develop later.

When the growth is controlled and the cells do not spread to other parts of the body, the skin growth (tumor) is noncancerous (benign). When the growth is uncontrolled, the tumor is cancerous (malignant), and the cells invade normal tissue and even spread (metastasize) to other parts of the body. Noncancerous skin growths are often more of a cosmetic problem than anything else.

Doctors do not know what causes most noncancerous skin growths. Some growths, however, are known to be caused by viruses (for example, warts), systemic (bodywide) disease (for example, xanthelasmas or xanthomas caused by excess fats in the blood), and environmental factors (for example, moles and epidermal cysts stimulated by sunlight).

Dermatofibromas 

Dermatofibromas are small red-to-brown bumps (nodules) that result from an accumulation of collagen, which is a protein made by the cells (fibroblasts) that populate the soft tissue under the skin.

Dermatofibromas are common and usually appear as single firm bumps, often on the legs, particularly in women. Some people develop many dermatofibromas. 

Causes include trauma, insect bites, and cuts caused by shaving. Dermatofibromas are harmless and usually do not cause any symptoms, except for occasional itching. Usually, dermatofibromas are not treated unless they become bothersome or enlarge. A doctor can remove them with a scalpel.

Epidermal cysts

An epidermal cyst is a common slow-growing bump consisting of a thin sac of skinlike material containing a cheesy substance composed of skin secretions.

Epidermal cysts, often incorrectly referred to as sebaceous cysts, are flesh-colored and range from ½ to 2 inches across. They can appear anywhere but are most common on the scalp, back, and face. They tend to be firm and easy to move within the skin. Epidermal cysts are not painful unless they become infected or inflamed.

Large epidermal cysts are removed surgically after an anesthetic is injected to numb the area. The thin sac wall must be removed completely or the cyst will grow back. Small cysts may be injected with corticosteroids if they become inflamed. Infected cysts are treated with an antibiotic and cut open to drain. Tiny cysts that are bothersome can be burned out with an electric needle.

Because sunlight may stimulate growth of epidermal cysts, fair-skinned people are advised to stay out of the sun and to use protective clothing and sunscreen.

Dermoid cyst

A benign tumor which is made up of hairs, sweat glands, and sebaceous glands. Some internal dermoid tumors may even contain cartilage, bone fragments, and teeth. Dermoid cysts may be removed surgically for cosmetic reasons.

Keloids

Smooth, firm, raised, fibrous growths on the skin that form in wound sites. Keloids are more common in African-Americans.

Keloids respond poorly to most treatment approaches. Injections of corticosteroid drugs may help to flatten the keloids. Other treatment approaches may include surgery or silicone patches to further flatten the keloids.

Keratoacanthomas

Round, flesh-colored growths that have a crater that contains a pasty material. These growths tend to appear on the face, forearm, or back of the hand. They usually disappear after a couple of months, but may leave scars.

Treatment usually includes a skin biopsy to rule out skin cancer. Other treatment may include surgical removal and/or injections of corticosteroids or fluorouracil.

Lipomas

Round or oval lumps under the skin caused by fatty deposits. Lipomas are more common in women and tend to appear on the forearms, torso, and back of the neck.

Lipomas are generally harmless, but if the lipoma changes shape, your physician may perform a biopsy. Treatment may include removal by surgery, if the lipoma bothers the child.

Pyogenic granulomas

Red, brown, or bluish-black, raised marks caused by excessive growth of capillaries (small blood vessels) and swelling. Pyogenic granulomas usually form after an injury to the skin.

Some pyogenic granulomas disappear without treatment. Sometimes a biopsy is necessary to rule out cancer. Treatment may include surgical removal.

Seborrheic keratoses

Flesh-colored, brown, or black wart-like spots. More common in middle-aged and older people, seborrheic keratoses may be round or oval and look like they are "stuck" on the skin.

Usually, no treatment is necessary. If the spots are irritated, or the patient wants them removed for cosmetic reasons, treatment may include freezing the area with liquid nitrogen or surgery.

For further information:

Skin Conditions and Skin Growths

Other related Skin Conditions:

Warts and Verrucas
Shingles
Psoriasis
Acroangiodermatitis associated with Lymphedema
Lymphomatoid Papulosis
Papillomatosis cutis carcinoides
Cutis Marmorata and Lymphedema
Elephantiasis nostras verrucosa - Skin Plaque and Nodules

Skin manifestations of obesity: a comparative study.

Sept 2011

Boza JC, Trindade EN, Peruzzo J, Sachett L, Rech L, Cestari TF.

Source

Department of Dermatology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre (HCPA), Porto Alegre, Brazil.

Abstract

Background:  Obesity is one of the world's biggest health problems nowadays. Little research has been done on the skindiseases that affect obese patients. 

Objective:  To study the prevalence of skin manifestations in obese patients compared with a control group of normal-weight patients. 

Methods:  A total of 76 obese patients [body mass index (BMI) ≥30 kg/m(2) ] and 73 with normal-weight volunteers (BMI 18.5-24.9 kg/m(2) ) were included in the study and had their complete medical history and skin examination evaluated by the same examiner. All patients were investigated for the presence of metabolic syndrome. 

Results:  The dermatoses that showed a statistically significant relationship with obesity, compared with the control group were: striae (P < 0.001), plantar hyperkeratosis (P < 0.001), acrochordons (P = 0.007), intertrigo (P < 0.001), pseudoacanthosis nigricans (P < 0.001), keratosis pilaris (P = 0.006), lymphedema (P = 0.002) and bacterial infections (P = 0.05). The presence of striae, pseudoacanthosis nigricans and bacterial infections were also found to be correlated with the degree of obesity. 

Conclusions:  Obesity is strongly related to several skin alterations that could be considered as markers of excessive weight. Skin care of obese patients deserves particular attention, not only because of the high prevalence of cutaneous alteration but mainly because many of these disorders are preventable and could be treated, improving patient's quality of life.

Wiley OnLine

Wound care management of a patient with stage III lymphedema.

July Aug 2012

Sheehan DD.

Source

Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA. dsheehan@luriechildren's.org

Abstract

PURPOSE:

The sequelae for patients living with stage III lymphedema, including immobility, functional impairment, isolation and emotional burden, that affect quality of life are highlighted.

METHOD:

The case patient's medical history upon initial evaluation, descriptive wound characteristics and treatment plan are described in detail.

RESULTS:

A comprehensive treatment regimen resolved the patient's wound.

DISCUSSION:

The definition, staging and prevalence of lymphedema are reviewed.

CONCLUSION:

Successful lymphedema wound treatment includes working with experienced healthcare providers, management of wound drainage and odor, the use of higher pressure compression, and complying with lifestyle changes.

Wiley Online Library

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