Calling all sports fans!

Sports Fans, What’s Your Strategy for Fall?


When the cooler weather arrives, football rivalries heat up, bringing fans to the bleachers.
You may think that cheering on your favorite team is a safe enough pastime, but sitting in the stands can be dangerous. The sun’s damaging UV rays can harm your skin, regardless of the temperature. The majority of the UV rays that hit the earth, in fact, are ultraviolet A (UVA) rays, which are present in about equal intensity throughout the year. Sun protection is a year-round commitment!

Excessive exposure to UV radiation is considered the main cause of approximately 90 percent of all skin cancers, and is also associated with eye damage, including cataracts; premature skin aging; and reduced immune system functioning. But you can stay safe during football season, and beyond, with The Skin Cancer Foundation’s guide to spectator sports.

Wear Sunscreen
You hear it all the time! Wear sunscreen. Choose a product with an SPF of 15 or higher, and some combination of the following UVA-blocking ingredients: avobenzone, ecamsule, oxybenzone, titanium dioxide, and zinc oxide. Apply a full ounce (two tablespoons) of sunscreen to the entire body, including a nickel-sized dollop to the face, 30 minutes before heading outside. Reapply every two hours, or immediately after sweating heavily. And don’t skip the sunscreen if it’s overcast: Up to 80 percent of the sun’s damaging ultraviolet (UV) radiation) can penetrate clouds — and harm your skin.

Dress the Part
The more skin you cover, the better. Long-sleeved shirts and long pants protect the skin on your arms and legs, and are perfect for the changeable fall weather. If you’re worried about overheating, look for clothes made of breathable materials, like certain microfibers and specially-treated athletic wear. For cooler days, densely-woven, dark-colored fabrics (like deep blue denim) are heavy enough to keep you warm, and lightweight enough for comfort.
A baseball cap may announce your team affiliation, but a hat with at least a 3" brim all around (such as an outback or bucket hat) will protect your head, neck, and shoulders — the parts of the body that sustain the most sun damage, and the most common sites for precancers and cancers.

Cover Your Eyes
Between five and 10 percent of of all skin cancers occur on the eyelid, and UV radiation can also lead to eye diseases such as age-related macular degeneration and cataracts. Protect your eyes with a pair of UV-blocking sunglasses. For the most sun protection, choose larger-sized frames that shield the eyes, eyelids, and surrounding areas, or a wraparound style with side shields.
Look for a pair of sunglasses that block 99-100 percent of UV radiation (the sunglasses’ tag or packaging should say this). Make sure your shades fit comfortably, and don’t slip down your nose!
If you’ll be watching a sport on a solid-color surface (like grass or Astroturf), brown-tinted lenses provide great color contrast and visibility.

Sit Strategically
If possible, sit in the shady section of the stadium or field — under an awning or overhang, if possible. If you can’t find a seat out of the sun, consider bringing a portable shade structure or an umbrella with you.
The more skin you cover, the better. Long-sleeved shirts and long pants protect the skin on your arms and legs, and are perfect for the changeable fall weather. If you’re worried about overheating, look for clothes made of breathable materials, like certain microfibers and specially-treated athletic wear. For cooler days, densely-woven, dark-colored fabrics (like deep blue denim) are heavy enough to keep you warm, and lightweight enough for comfort.

Read more at http://www.skincancer.org/

Repair and even reverse signs of sun damage!

Are you concerned about wrinkles, brown spots, and leathery skin? Following some simple guidelines from The Skin Cancer Foundation can help you repair and possibly even reverse these signs of skin aging, up to 90 percent of which are caused by the sun.

Overexposure to the sun’s dangerous ultraviolet (UV) light can also lead to skin cancer and precancers like actinic keratoses (AKs). Since sun damage accumulates over time, it’s never too late to start a sun protection regimen.

Although most people know enough to wear sunscreen when the sun is beating down, “Protecting your skin from the sun does not end with the summer months,” says Deborah S. Sarnoff, MD, a New York City dermatologist and educational spokesperson for The Skin Cancer Foundation. “By carefully practicing sun protection year-round, you can prevent further sun damage and may even reverse some of the damage already done.”

To help stop or even reverse sun damage to the skin:

- Use sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher. Sunscreen is one of the keys to radiant, youthful-looking skin. Daily use may even lower your long-term risk of skin cancer. By reducing your daily sun exposure, sunscreen allows your skin time to heal and your immune system the chance to repair some existing damage.
- Exfoliate. The buildup of stratum corneum (the dead, outermost skin cell layer) can make skin appear blotchy and uneven. Also, remnants of self tanning products can collect in typically dry areas (such as the elbows), causing the skin to lose its luster and appear “dirty.” Loofahs, scrubs, alpha hydroxy acid (AHA)* cleansers, and home microdermabrasion kits can remove dead skin cells, leaving skin looking smoother.
- Bleach the brown spots. Skin lightener does not actually make the skin white; it simply helps to lighten accumulations of unwanted color. Ask your dermatologist for details.
- Hydrate! Summer exposure to sun, chlorine, and salt water can dry out your skin — even the heels of your feet can be affected. Try a hand and body cream, and, for the heels, a moisturizing foot cream. A moisturizer with AHA or facial serum with hyaluronic acid can plump up dry skin around the eyes, making skin instantly appear less wrinkled. Continued use may help stimulate the production of new collagen, a protein that helps give skin its texture and appearance.

-Visit a dermatologist. Professional laser treatments can improve everything from blotchiness and discoloration to wrinkles. Photodynamic therapy — laser or intense pulsed light in combination with a topical solution known as Levulan — can remove scaly patches of actinic keratoses from your skin.

* These products can increase your skin’s sensitivity to the sun. Use with caution!

For more information about sun sensitivity and other additional information go to http://www.skincancer.org/

If You Can Spot It You Can Help Stop It!

WHY ARE SELF-EXAMS ARE SO IMPORTANT?

Did you know, skin cancer is the most common of all cancers, afflicting more than a million Americans each year, a number that is rising rapidly. It is also the easiest to cure, if diagnosed and treated early. When allowed to progress, however, skin cancer can result in disfigurement and even death.

Who Should Do It
You should! And if you have children, begin teaching them how to at an early age so they can do it themselves by the time they are teens. Coupled with yearly skin exams by a dermatologist, self-exams are the best way to ensure that you don’t become a statistic in the battle against skin cancer.

When To Do It
Performed regularly, self-examination can alert you to changes in your skin and aid in the early detection of skin cancer. It should be done often enough to become a habit, but not so often as to feel like a bother. For most people, once a month is ideal, but ask your doctor if you should do more frequent checks.
You may find it helpful to have a dermatologist do a full body exam first, to assure you that any existing spots, freckles, or moles are normal or treat any that may not be. After the first few times, self-examination should take no more than 10 minutes – a small investment in what could be a life-saving procedure.

What To Look For
There are three main types of skin cancer: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Because each has many different appearances, it is important to know the early warning signs. Look especially for change of any kind. Do not ignore a suspicious spot simply because it does not hurt. Skin cancers may be painless, but dangerous all the same. If you notice one or more of the warning signs, see a doctor right away, preferably one who specializes in diseases of the skin.

The Warning Signs
- A skin growth that increases in size and appears pearly, translucent, tan, brown, black, or multicolored
-A mole, birthmark, beauty mark, or any brown spot that:
changes color
increases in size or thickness
changes in texture
is irregular in outline
is bigger than 6mm or 1/4”, the size of a pencil eraser
appears after age 21
- A spot or sore that continues to itch, hurt, crust, scab, erode, or bleed
- An open sore that does not heal within three weeks

If You Spot It...
Don’t overlook it. Don’t delay. See a physician, preferably one who specializes in diseases of the skin, if you note any change in an existing mole, freckle, or spot or if you find a new one with any of the warning signs of skin cancer.

Protection Stops It, Too

About 90 percent of non-melanoma skin cancers are associated with exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun.

Seek the shade, especially between 10 AM and 4 PM.
Do not burn.
Cover up with clothing, including a broad-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses.
Use a sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher every day.
Apply 1 ounce (2 tablespoons) of sunscreen to your entire body 30 minutes before going outside.
Reapply every two hours, or immediately after swimming or excessive sweating.
Keep newborns out of the sun. Sunscreens should be used on babies over the age of six months.
Examine your skin head-to-toe every month.
See your dermatologist every year for a professional skin exam.
Avoid tanning and UV tanning booths.

Read more at http://www.skincancer.org/

Another Reason to See Your Dermatologist

Can you spot a potentially deadly melanoma? Chances are your dermatologist can.
A recent study showed that the majority of all melanomas (the deadliest form of skin cancer) were discovered by dermatologists.
Dermatologists detected more than 56 percent of the melanomas found in a survey of 126 skin cancer patients, according to the Archives of Dermatology. Through the use of full-body skin exams, dermatologists were also more likely than patients to detect melanomas at an earlier stage, when they are thinner, and more easily treated.

Read more at skincancer.org

What's your sun sensitivity?

Sun exposure can make some people literally break out in hives. Unfortunately, many people with sun-sensitive skin don’t even realize they’re at risk. Are you one of them?

Sun sensitivity is the increased sensitivity or abnormal response of the skin to sun or artificial ultraviolet (UV) light. Sunlight or tanning beds can trigger unusual skin reactions (such as burning more quickly than usual) in people taking common antibiotics, heart medicines, and other medications. Luckily, “It’s absolutely fine to take these medications, it is just that people taking these drugs may need to be extra diligent about sun protection,” according to Deborah S. Sarnoff, MD, Vice President of The Skin Cancer Foundation.

While drug-induced sun sensitivity (also known as photosensitivity) can manifest in a variety of ways, most reactions are considered phototoxic or, less commonly, photoallergic. Phototoxic reactions typically appear as exaggerated sunburns, and occur up to 24 hours after exposure to the photosensitizing medication and UV light. The reaction is limited to sun-exposed skin, which can be itchy and sore. In severe cases, blisters may form.

Photoallergic reactions, which can appear all over the body, do not develop until one to three days after the substance has come into contact with the body, when the immune system mounts a response to the allergen. Photoallergies, like other allergies, tend to occur in previously sensitized individuals and are generally caused by topical medications or cosmetic ingredients such as musk ambrette, sandalwood and bergamot oils. Repeat exposure to the same allergen plus UV light can prompt itching, red bumps, scaling, and oozing lesions similar to eczema.

While there are many medications, including over-the-counter pain relievers (such as ibuprofen), oral contraceptives, and antidepressants that may cause phototoxic or photoallergic reactions, the most common ones include antibiotics (tetracyclines, fluoroquinolones, and sulfonamides); diuretics (furosemide and hydrochlorothiazide); and oral and topical retinoids (isotretinoin, acitretin, tazarotene, and tretinoin).

Preventing Photosensitivity
“Photosensitivity will vary based on the individual,” Dr. Sarnoff explained. “Two people can take the same medication and one will have a reaction and the other won’t. The keys to preventing a phototoxic reaction are patient education and taking the proper precautions.” Photosensitive individuals should:

Seek the shade: If outside for any length of time, find a pavilion roof or large, leafy tree to stay under. Or, carry shade with you — bring a sun umbrella.
Wear protective clothing: All clothing provides some degree of sun protection; however, densely woven and bright- or dark-colored fabrics provide greater defense. Long sleeves and long pants cover more of the body, while a broad-brimmed hat helps protect the face, ears, and back of the neck. For all-day outdoor activities, consider specially formulated sun-protective clothing with a UPF (ultraviolet protection factor, a measure of the material’s sun-protective qualities) of 50.
Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30: For photosensitive people, the higher the SPF (Sun Protection Factor, an indication of the product’s ability to screen UVB radiation), the better. Additionally, be sure the sunscreen contains some combination of UVA-blocking ingredients such as avobenzone, ecamsule (a.k.a. Mexoryl™), oxybenzone, zinc oxide, and titanium dioxide.
Use the right amount of sunscreen: Most people do not apply enough sunscreen. People with heightened sun sensitivity should be especially careful to use at least one ounce (two tablespoons), including a nickel-sized dollop on the face.
Apply sunscreen one-half hour before sun exposure: This gives it time to fully absorb and bind to your skin.

Reapply sunscreen every two hours, since sunscreen gradually breaks down in the sun and wears off. Also reapply immediately after swimming or sweating heavily.

Read more at skincancer.org

September is just around the corner!

That means we are almost ready to chose a winner for our monthly "facebook friend drawing"! Add us by the end of the month and you will be entered to win!

Full Body Skin Exams are very important!

Study indicates importance of dermatologist-initiated full body skin examinations (FBSE) in detection of melanoma.

Following a MedPage Today story, MedWire (8/21, Albert) reported that, according to a study published in the Archives of Dermatology, "most melanomas found in a dermatology general practice setting are diagnosed as a result of a dermatologist-initiated full-body skin examination (FBSE) and not patient complaint."

For the study, researchers from North Florida Dermatology Associates conducted "a retrospective analytical case series of 126 melanoma patients attending a private dermatology practice in Florida."

The team noted that, "overall, 56.3 percent (n=71) of the melanomas were detected by the examining dermatologist whilst doing a FBSE and were secondary to the presenting complaint." Notably, "a greater number of the physician-detected melanomas were in situ and therefore at an earlier and more treatable stage."

In fact, "dermatologists were five times more likely to detect melanomas that were under one-mm thick than patients," the authors said.

Protect your hair in the summer!

Sun
Changes hair color. Do you dye your hair? Excess sun exposure can fade hair color, leaving once-luscious locks dull, brassy and burnished.
Causes damage and dryness. Did you know that just like skin, hair can suffer sun damage? UV rays harm the hair and scalp, potentially leading to split ends, breakage, dryness and dehydration. Hair, like skin, is made up of proteins that require moisture to thrive. However, unlike skin, hair is dead. When hair’s moisture is gone, it must be replaced via treatments and conditioners.
May cause hair loss. A sunburned scalp may even trigger hair loss.

Chlorine
Changes hair color. Chlorine is an elemental gas found naturally in the environment. It’s also added to thousands of household and consumer products, drinking water supplies and swimming pools. Chlorine disinfects, killing germs and bacteria present in the water. When exposed to water or air, elemental chlorine breaks down into other chemicals, like hypochlorus acid or sodium hypochlorite. These chemicals can have a drastic effect on dyed hair, especially blond or light brown hair, causing a greenish tint.
Causes damage and dryness. Chlorine can damage the hair shaft, leaving hair rough, dry and straw-like. Why? Hair’s outer layer, or cuticle, is composed of dozens of inter-lapping layers. In healthy, undamaged hair, these layers stay flat and smooth. They reflect light and give hair a shiny, mirror-like surface. However, when hair is exposed to chlorinated water, chlorine penetrates the hair shaft and opens up the cuticle. This causes the layers to buckle or rupture, and no longer lie in a smooth pattern. Hair is unable to reflect light, and doesn’t appear shiny. Once the cuticle is disrupted, hair quickly loses moisture, and it can feel dehydrated and brittle.

Humidity
Causes frizz. Humid air is saturated with moisture. Especially if your hair is dry, damaged or chemically treated, moisture from the air can “penetrate the hair shaft, causing it to swell,” writes Wendy Korn for Prevention. The result is frizzy, hard-to-control locks.
Causes flatness. On the other hand, if you have fine, thin or straight tresses, moisture and humidity can have the opposite effect: They make your hair limp and greasy. Your scalp also produces more oil and sweat during hot, humid summer months, which can weigh hair down even further.

How to protect your tresses
Thankfully, you can still enjoy a day at the seashore or dip in the pool and maintain healthy hair. Here are some easy, effective options for protecting your hair from chlorine, sun and humidity:
Make a salon appointment for a trim at the beginning of summer. Trimming your hair decreases damage by “removing unhealthy ends before you hit the sun,” writes Lisa Kovalovich in Ladies’ Home Journal.

If you’ve had any chemical process, like coloring or straightening, avoid chlorinated water for at least a week. This will minimize interactions between chemicals in your hair and the chlorine.
Use hair spray or leave-in treatment conditioner with SPF before going outside. Quintessence Q-Sunshade Leave In Hair Conditioner and Scalp Protectant SPF 30 features broad-spectrum sun protection for the hair and scalp. It maintains shine, color and moisture. Pay special attention where the hair parts, along the temple and behind your neck and ears. These areas often get overlooked when applying sunscreen and are prone to sunburn.
Before you take a dip, wet hair using regular tap water. Your hair will absorb the tap water instead of the chlorinated pool water.

Don a swimming cap or wide-brimmed hat. A swimming cap keeps hair safe from contact with chlorinated water, while a hat protects your hair and scalp from UV rays and sunburn.
Set up an umbrella and rest under the shade instead of baking in the sun.
Keep frizz at bay using a smoothing serum with silicone.
If you’ve already swam in the pool and your hair has turned a greenish hue, here are several options:

To wash the chlorine out of your hair, try:
Alterna Life Solutions Clarifying Shampoo, which deep cleans without zapping your hair’s natural moisture or color.
Oscar Blandi Shampoo D’Alternanza Gentle Exfoliating Shampoo, which removes chlorine build-up and the green tint. Hair will return to its normal color after a few washes.
Incorporate a weekly deep conditioning mask into your routine, such as Alterna Hemp Repair Weekly Treatment. Featuring nutrient-rich hemp seed oil, amino acids, fruit extracts and UV protection, this treatment nurses your hair back to health. Damage is repaired, leaving tresses silky-smooth.

by Skincare-news.com team

The truth about tanning

Thirty years ago, few people knew about the dangers of the sun. Dr. Perry Robins created The Skin Cancer Foundation to educate the public and medical professionals alike about the prevention, detection and treatment of skin cancer.

The message is being heard.

Today, skin cancer awareness is at an all-time high. A recent poll by the research company GfK Roper showed that 58 percent of people are concerned today about skin cancer. Yet only 11 percent of people use an SPF 15 or higher daily.

We’ve known for years that ultraviolet radiation (UV) from the sun is a human carcinogen. Now, the World Health Organization has classified UV tanning devices (tanning beds and sun lamps) as among the most dangerous causes of human cancers – on par with other carcinogenic forms of radiation such as radon, solar UV, and plutonium.

The risk of melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, increases by 75 percent when you use tanning beds before the age of 30.

In addition to the scientific evidence, there’s another reason not to tan: Fashion and beauty insiders agree that tanning is no longer in style. “I can’t remember the last time I saw a tanned model in my magazine or on the runway,” said Jane Larkworthy, Beauty Director of W.

The same goes for celebrities. From Nicole Kidman and Julianne Moore to Kristen Stewart and Amy Adams, smart celebrities are experts at protecting themselves from the sun.


They know that up to 90 percent of visible skin changes attributed to aging are caused by the sun. Tanning can begin to wrinkle, sag, roughen, and discolor your skin as early as in your 20’s.



Now is the time to change your attitudes about tanning as well as your behavior. Tanning as a life priority is over.

Article from http://www.skincancer.org/

Sunscreen explained!

The sunscreen aisle of a drugstore offers lots of choices, but which one is right for you? We show you how to find the sunscreen that best fits your lifestyle.

What Are Sunscreens?
Sunscreens are chemical agents that help prevent the sun's ultraviolet (UV) radiation from reaching the skin. Two types of ultraviolet radiation, UVA and UVB, damage the skin and increase your risk of skin cancer.UVB is the chief culprit behind sunburn, while UVA rays, which penetrate the skin more deeply, are associated with wrinkling, leathering, sagging, and other effects of photoaging. They also exacerbate the carcinogenic effects of UVB rays, and increasingly are being seen as a cause of skin cancer on their own. Sunscreens vary in their ability to protect against UVA and UVB.

What Is SPF?
Most sunscreens with an SPF of 15 or higher do an excellent job of protecting against UVB. SPF — or Sun Protection Factor — is a measure of a sunscreen's ability to prevent UVB from damaging the skin. Here's how it works: If it takes 20 minutes for your unprotected skin to start turning red, using an SPF 15 sunscreen theoretically prevents reddening 15 times longer — about five hours.

Another way to look at it is in terms of percentages: SPF 15 blocks approximately 93 percent of all incoming UVB rays. SPF 30 blocks 97 percent; and SPF 50 blocks 98 percent. They may seem like negligible differences, but if you are light-sensitive, or have a history of skin cancer, those extra percentages will make a difference. And as you can see, no sunscreen can block all UV rays.

But there are problems with the SPF model: First, no sunscreen, regardless of strength, should be expected to stay effective longer than two hours without reapplication. Second, "reddening" of the skin is a reaction to UVB rays alone and tells you little about what UVA damage you may be getting. Plenty of damage can be done without the red flag of sunburn being raised.

Who Should Use Sunscreen?
Anyone over the age of six months should use a sunscreen daily. Even those who work inside are exposed to ultraviolet radiation for brief periods throughout the day. Also, UVA is not blocked by most windows.
Children under the age of six months should not be exposed to the sun. Shade and protective clothing are the best ways to protect infants from the sun.

What Type of Sunscreen Should I Use?
The answer depends on how much sun exposure you're anticipating. In all cases we recommend a broad-spectrum sunscreen offering protection against both UVA and UVB rays.
Many after-shave lotions and moisturizers have a sunscreen (usually SPF 15 or greater) already in them, and this is sufficient for everyday activities with a few minutes here and there in the sun. However, if you work outside or spend a lot of time outdoors, you need stronger, water-resistant, beachwear-type sunscreen that holds together on your skin. The "water resistant" and "very water resistant" types are also good for hot days or while playing sports, because they're less likely to drip into your eyes. However, these sunscreens may not be as good for everyday wear. They are stickier, don't go as well with makeup, and need to be reapplied every two hours.

Many of the sunscreens available in the US today combine several different active chemical sunscreen ingredients in order to provide broad-spectrum protection. Usually, at least three active ingredients are called for. These generally include PABA derivatives, salicylates, and/or cinnamates (octylmethoxycinnamate and cinoxate) for UVB absorption; benzophenones (such as oxybenzone and sulisobenzone) for shorter-wavelength UVA protection; and avobenzone (Parsol 1789), ecamsule (MexorylTM), titanium dioxide, or zinc oxide for the remaining UVA spectrum.

How Much Sunscreen Should I Use and How Often Should I Put it On?
To ensure that you get the full SPF of a sunscreen, you need to apply 1 oz – about a shot glass full. Studies show that most people apply only half to a quarter of that amount, which means the actual SPF they have on their body is lower than advertised. During a long day at the beach, one person should use around one half to one quarter of an 8 oz. bottle. Sunscreens should be applied 30 minutes before sun exposure to allow the ingredients to fully bind to the skin. Reapplication of sunscreen is just as important as putting it on in the first place, so reapply the same amount every two hours. Sunscreens should be reapplied immediately after swimming, toweling off, or sweating a great deal.

Common Myths
Wearing sunscreen can cause vitamin D deficiency.There is some controversy regarding this issue, but few dermatologists believe (and no studies have shown) that sunscreens cause vitamin D deficiency. Also, vitamin D is available in dietary supplements and foods such as salmon and eggs, as well as enriched milk and orange juice.
If it's cold or cloudy outside, you don't need sunscreen.This is not true. Up to 40 percent of the sun's ultraviolet radiation reaches the earth on a completely cloudy day. This misperception often leads to the most serious sunburns, because people spend all day outdoors with no protection from the sun.

Eighty percent of your sun exposure comes as a child, so it's too late to do anything now.It appears that this universally promoted idea was based largely on a misinterpretation. A recent multi-center study showed that we get less than 25 percent of our total sun exposure by age 18. In fact, it is men over the age of 40 who spend the most time outdoors, and get the highest annual doses of UV rays. And since adult Americans are living longer and spending more leisure time outdoors, preventing ongoing skin damage will continue to be an important part of a healthy lifestyle.

Buy a high-quality product with an SPF of 15 or higher; check its ingredients to make sure it offers broad-spectrum protection; and decide whether it works better for everyday incidental use or extended outdoor use. Finally, look for The Skin Cancer Foundation's Seal of Recommendation, which guarantees that a sunscreen product meets the highest standards for safety and effectiveness. Once you choose the right sunscreen, use it the right way. But remember, you should not rely on sunscreen alone to protect your skin against UV rays. By following our Prevention Guidelines, you can lower your risk of developing skin cancer, while helping your skin look younger, longer.

Article from http://www.skincancer.org/

The Dangers of Tanning

In Woody Allen's classic "Annie Hall," Alvy Singer laments, "Everything our parents said was good is bad." He lists whole milk, red meat - and the sun. Obviously, the sun is not "bad," but the truth about sun exposure is much more complex than believed a generation ago. Ever since Coco Chanel declared tanning "in" in the 1920s, a suntan was seen as symbol of health, youth and status. However, recent studies on the relationship between the sun's ultraviolet rays (UVR) and our skin are changing the way we view that "healthy" glow.

What is tanning?
Tanning is the skin's reaction to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. When skin is exposed to UV rays, cells called melanocytes produce the brown pigment melanin, which darkens the cells of the epidermis. This darkening of the skin cells is the skin's natural – if imperfect – defense against further damage from UV radiation.

Is tanning bad for you?
The sun's UV rays damage the DNA of the skin's epidermal cells, triggering enzymes that race to repair the damage. However, these enzymes do not always repair the DNA successfully, and all this unrepaired damage can lead to mutations that increase the risk of skin cancer. Also, repeated unprotected sun exposure can cause photoaging – wrinkles, sagging skin, and spots associated with sun damage.

Does all UV radiation harm my skin?
Scientists divide the solar UV spectrum into three wavelengths - UVA, UVB and UVC. Once, UVA and UVC were thought harmless, and only UVB was believed dangerous. UVC is still deemed no threat, since it is absorbed by the ozone layer. But UVA accounts for up to 95 percent of solar UVR reaching Earth. Though far less capable of causing sunburn than UVB, UVA is present during all daylight hours year round, while the amount of UVB in sunlight varies by season, location and time of day.

By the 1990's, scientists knew that UVA exacerbates the cancer-causing effects of UVB, and is the main wavelength behind photoaging. Recently, an Australian-U.S. study found that UVA may be more carcinogenic than UVB. It penetrates more deeply and causes more genetic damage in the skin cells (keratinocytes) where most skin cancers arise. The National Institutes of Health and the World Health Organization now designate both UVA and UVB as causes of cancer.

Doesn't the melanin acquired through tanning actually protect my skin?
Darker skin does offer greater protection than light skin against sunburn and skin cancer. However, that applies only to people with naturally darker skin. Tanning, like sunburns, attacks the skin's DNA, producing genetic defects that may cause skin cancer.

Isn't getting sunburned more dangerous than getting tan?
Both are dangerous, because both result from DNA damage to the skin cells. It is true that sunburn has been directly linked to melanoma – one blistering sunburn more than doubles a person's chances of developing melanoma later in life. It is usually thought that lifetime sun exposure is responsible for increased risk of squamous cell carcinoma, while both intense, intermittent sun exposure – the pattern that is traditionally linked to melanoma – and lifetime exposure are believed to be involved in the development of basal cell carcinoma. However, studies have also shown a marked increase in melanoma incidence in people who have developed either squamous cell carcinoma or basal cell carcinoma. Scientists are still trying to determine the exact exposure pattern behind the development of the different types of skin cancer, but it is safe to say that both burning and tanning play major roles in skin cancer.

Are tanning beds safer?
Tanning salon owners say tanning machines are safer than outdoor tanning for two reasons: 1) they mainly use UVA rays, and 2) they offer more "controlled" UV exposure. However, we know now that UVA is a carcinogen, and studies have revealed that tanning salons frequently exceed "safe" UV limits. Study after study has shown that sunbed tanning increases the risk of both melanoma and nonmelanoma skin cancers.

The facts bear out: There is no such thing as a safe tan. However, there are safe alternatives in sunless tanners. Being informed about how to protect yourself from unwanted sun exposure is the best defense against skin cancer and photoaging.

Read more about the article here.

Source: www.skincancer.org

How to hit the beach the sun-safe way

The screech of seagulls. The pounding surf. As your summer daydreams grow insistent, you grab a towel, fill up the cooler and set out for the golden sand…
Haven’t you forgotten something?

Right. Sun protection. Before a day on the beach, you need strategies to keep from returning browned or burned by harmful solar ultraviolet rays (UVR). Here’s our five-step plan to make sure your next beach trip isn’t just fun, but also sun-safe.

1. Choose the Right Time

The sun is most intense between 10 AM and 4:00 PM, so why not try an early morning or late afternoon trip? You’ll avoid the crowds (and traffic) and have the beach more to yourself. And you’ll get to enjoy the calm of daybreak or a stunning sunset.

2. Dress for Defense

Skimpy swimsuits may be in, but leave too much of you out. Other clothing can better shield you from UVR. Recent research shows that the right clothing offers even more protection than sunscreen.

Always wear a broad-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses on the beach. Ladies, the tiny swimsuit might be fine in the water, but wear a sarong or another cover-up when you’re on the sand. Men, try knee-length board shorts and a long-sleeved T-shirt.
Tightly-woven fabric best protects the skin. Hold clothes up to the light. If you can see through it, UVR can penetrate it. Darker-colored and brightly colored fabrics (say, oranges and reds) are more sun-protective than pastel or pale ones, especially white T-shirts. And looser-fitting clothes surpass tight clothes that stretch a lot, allowing light through.

Today, many manufacturers offer special UV-absorbing clothes, from swimsuits and shirts to hats and pants. This clothing will usually have a high Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) rating, indicating how much UVR it absorbs. A fabric with a 50 UPF, for example, allows only 1/50th of the sun’s UVR to pass through.

You can also sun-proof your own clothing. Look for household laundry products containing special UV-absorbing agents that allow you literally to launder UV protection into garments. They can raise the UPF of a white cotton T-shirt from approximately 5 to as high as 30.

3. Pack Sunscreen

Broad-spectrum sunscreen is a core part of any sun safety regimen. The sun’s UVA and UVB rays are the main causes of premature aging and skin cancer, so you need a good broad-spectrum sunscreen featuring ingredients that block or absorb both UVA and UVB. While cosmetics containing sunscreen are fine for incidental everyday exposure, for a long beach stint you need a separate, durable, water-resistant sunscreen. In addition to an SPF of 15 or higher – which guarantees good UVB protection – look for ingredients such as avobenzone, oxybenzone, MexorylTM, zinc oxide and titanium dioxide that are ideal against UVA. Apply two tablespoons to all exposed body parts 30 minutes before you go outside. And bring the bottle with you.

4. Claim the Best Spot on (or off) the Sand

Find a spot that’s covered — under a tree or pavilion — or make your own shade with a large beach umbrella. Today, umbrellas made with special sun-protective fabric provide a minimum SPF of 35.

5. Before You Fry, Reapply

When you’re having a good time at the beach, it’s easy to forget that sunscreen eventually breaks down or wears away in the sun. Even if the sunscreen says “long-lasting” on it, never assume you are safe all day after applying it once. Reapply at least every two hours and immediately after swimming or heavy exercise.

There you have it. Follow this simple action plan, and you’ll have a whale of a day but leave the beach unscathed.

For a list of sunscreens, clothing, beach umbrellas, and other sun safety items that have received The Skin Cancer Foundation’s Seal of Recommendation, visit the Web site

Source: www.skincancer.org

Dress for Sun Success!

Some manufacturers today include an Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) number on the label. UPF labels indicate how much of the sun's UVR is absorbed by the product's fabric.

For instance, a hat with a UPF of 50 allows just 1/50th of the sun's UVR to reach the skin. To receive The Skin Cancer Foundation's Seal of Recommendation, sun-protective fabrics must have a UPF of 30 or higher.

Even if your hat doesn't have a UPF label, you can up your protection factor by choosing headgear wisely. Look for hats with:

Wide Brims: Hats with at least a 3"-brim encircling the circumference protect the face, ears, and neck. Examples include the bucket, cowboy, outback, and Panama.

Curved Shapes: Look for hats that follow the contours of the head and neck.

Dark Colors: Dark or bright colored hats absorb UVR better than paler colors.

Opaque Materials: The denser the fabric, the higher the UPF. Look for closed-weave fabrics or tightly-woven straw.

For a list of companies that manufacture clothing and hats that carry The Skin Cancer Foundation's Seal of Recommendation, go to http://www.skincancer.org/, then click on RECOMMENDED PRODUCTS, then click on CLOTHING & FABRICS.

Vitamin D Information

POSITION STATEMENT on VITAMIN D

The American Academy of Dermatology recommends that an adequate amount of vitamin D should be obtained from a healthy diet that includes foods naturally rich in vitamin D, foods/beverages fortified with vitamin D, and/or vitamin D supplements.
Vitamin D should not be obtained from unprotected exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation.
Unprotected UV exposure to the sun or indoor tanning devices is a known risk factor for the development of skin cancer.

Studies have shown that UV radiation from both the sun and tanning devices can cause oncogenic mutations in skin cells. Use of sunbeds has also been associated with increased risk for melanoma and squamous cell carcinoma.

There is no scientifically validated, safe threshold level of UV exposure from the sun that allows for maximal vitamin D synthesis without increasing skin cancer risk.
To protect against skin cancer, a comprehensive photoprotective regimen, including the regular use and proper use of a broad-spectrum sunscreen, is recommended.

The Academy also recommends that physicians should provide information on options for obtaining sufficient dietary or supplementary sources of vitamin D to their patients who are at high risk for vitamin D insufficiency.

Many epidemiological studies suggest an association between low serum vitamin D levels and increased risk of certain types of cancers, neurologic disease, autoimmune disease and cardiovascular disease.

It should be emphasized that the causal relationship of vitamin D to these diseases has yet to be demonstrated with clinical trials.

A blood test to measure serum vitamin D level, expressed as the 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D], is widely available.

Further research is needed to determine the appropriate serum concentration of vitamin D required for overall good health.

If you would like to know more about The National Academy of Sciences Institute of Medicine (IOM) guidelines for vitamin D, click here.


A higher dose of vitamin D intake, through a combination of diet and supplementation, may be necessary for individuals with known risk factors for vitamin D insufficiency (e.g. dark skin individuals, elderly persons, photosensitive individuals, people with limited sun exposure, obese individuals or those with fat malabsorption).

A daily total dose of 1000 IU (International Units) of vitamin D for these at-risk groups has been discussed in the current US Department of Agriculture (USDA) Dietary Guidelines.
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) current recommendation of 400 IU/day for children age 0-18 years should be considered.

For vitamin D supplementation, vitamin D3, the natural form of vitamin D, is preferable over vitamin D2.

Adults who regularly and properly practice photoprotection may also be at risk for vitamin D insufficiency, and may be considered for a daily total dose of 1000 IU vitamin D.

Dermatologist calls sunscreen report "discouraging."

WebMD reported that, according to a report by the watchdog organization Environmental Working Group (EWG), three out of five brand-name sunscreen "products either don't protect the skin from sun damage sufficiently, contain hazardous chemicals, or both." This year's report, called EWG 2009 Sunscreen Guide, "is the third annual from EWG, which investigated 1,572 sunscreens, lip balms, and daily moisturizers with sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15, typically the minimum recommended."

The study "was triggered, according to EWG, because the FDA has not set comprehensive safety standards for sunscreens. The agency has set guidelines for UVB protection but those for UVA are pending." In response to the report, dermatologist Sandra Read, MD, a "member of the board of directors of the American Academy of Dermatology," said that "she finds the report discouraging, but" stated that "she hopes it will raise awareness of the need for sunscreen." For its part, a sunscreen industry spokesperson called the report "flawed."

THE CLAIM:

Sunscreens Can Increase the Risk of Melanoma

THE FACTS:

Is it possible that a product meant to protect against skin cancer might actually cause it?
Several intriguing studies have investigated claims that zinc oxide and other compounds in some sunscreens might have harmful effects. Some laboratory studies, for example, have shown that zinc oxide and titanium oxide — intended to block ultraviolet rays — can create free radicals in the presence of sunlight, leading to cell damage. Others point to research showing a general rise in melanoma cases over the years, particularly in people who use sunscreen.
But that may be misleading. For these compounds to cause harm, they must penetrate skin cells, and research by health officials in Australia, which has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world, found that doesn’t happen. “The weight of current evidence is that they remain on the surface of the skin and in the outer dead layer (stratum corneum) of the skin,” they wrote in one report.
In other studies, researchers followed thousands of people, looking for connections between melanoma and sunscreen. They found no evidence of greater risk. They also noted that people who sunbathe often or have greater sun sensitivity are more likely to use sunscreen, possibly explaining the associations in earlier studies.

THE BOTTOM LINE:
Studies suggest zinc oxide and other compounds in sunscreen do not damage cells or increase melanoma risk.

Columnists advise consumers on acetaminophen risks.

Melinda Beck writes in the Wall Street Journal (7/7) Health Journal column, "Whether or not the Food and Drug Administration decides to limit sales of acetaminophen, consumers should know this: It's easy to take more than the recommended daily dose without realizing it. The margin between a safe dose and a potentially lethal one is small. The first symptoms of acute liver failure caused by an overdose seem like the flu and don't set in for several days, by which time it may be too late to save your liver and consequently your life."

Beck also writes that acetaminophen grew "in popularity in large part because of its reputation for safety," but "pain experts say that reputation for safety may be lulling consumers into complacency. Some consumers don't think twice about popping more than the recommended amount and don't bother to read the ingredients on familiar over-the-counter products."

Similarly, in the New York Times (7/7, D5) Well column, Tara Parker-Pope poses some questions and answers regarding the FDA panel's recommendations, the news of which "left many consumers confused and alarmed." For instance, Pope asks whether consumers should "switch to other types of over-the-counter pain relief" and answers: "Emphatically, no. Every drug has risks and side effects, but over all the risk of acetaminophen to any individual is low."

Pope also says the main lesson from the panel's review was that because "acetaminophen is in so many products, consumers need to be vigilant about reading labels, and they need to keep track of how much of the drug they are ingesting daily."

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Meet Steve T. Anderson, PA-C!

Steve received his bachelor of science in exercise physiology from Brigham Young University. He then went on to receive his master of medical science degree and physician assistant diploma from Emory University School of Medicine in Atlanta, Georgia. During his undergraduate studies, Steve worked as a rehabilitation therapist in the cardiac rehabilitation department at Utah Valley Regional Medical Center. After earning his PA and master’s degree he worked in family practice and urgent care in both Wyoming and California. He recently returned to Utah to work at Alpine Dermatology. Steve is a board certified physician assistant and is a fellow of the American Academy of Physician Assistants, the Utah Academy of Physician Assistants, and the Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants.

During his time in California, Steve was a member of the National Health Service Corps and worked in a remote location in the Tahoe National Forest, providing health care to the people of rural Sierra County. He has been a medical provider at county jails in California and Wyoming, and now in Utah.

Steve is a native of southwest Wyoming and enjoys all things recreational and outdoors with his family. He served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Sydney, Australia. Steve now lives with his wife and two children in Highland, Utah.

Blue light special: ALA-PDT safe and effective tool for treating acne lesions

Brooklyn, N.Y. — Recent research has shown that ALA-PDT using blue light is a safe and effective treatment for acne vulgaris.

ALA (Levulan) is absorbed by the skin and changes into a compound that is sensitive to light. ALA-PDT is a combination of a topical solution followed by exposure to blue light from the Blue Light Photodynamic Therapy Illuminator (BLU-U)
.
The combination of ALA and PDT is believed to preferentially target Propionibacterium acnes (P.acnes) and sebaceous glands. Research
Wei-Li Lee, Ph.D., director of research, department of dermatology at the State University of New York (SUNY)-Downstate, Brooklyn, N.Y., and colleagues conducted an in vitro study to investigate the effects of ALA-PDT on cytokine production in cultured keratinocytes.
If complexity of a cytokine network’s regulation is an index of its biological importance, then IL-1 ranks as an extraordinarily important cytokine.

Skin is unique in that a significant reservoir of pre-formed IL-1 alpha exists in epidermis in situ. Both intact epidermis and stratum corneum contain significant IL-1 bioactivity, leading to the concept that epidermis is a shield of sequestered IL-1 surrounding the host, waiting to be released upon injury.

External stimuli, such as wounding, burns, UV radiation or chemical insults, along with internal stimuli such as local cytokine release from stimulated leukocytes, can induce the release of IL-1 for local or systemic delivery.

"The expression of cytokines such as IL-1 alpha plays a critical role in the development of inflammation and results in the expression of dermal and vascular adhesion molecules, chemoattraction of inflammatory cells, and stimulation of other mediators of inflammation," Dr. Lee Ph.D. tells Dermatology Times.

In vitro experiments
In the in vitro experiments, immortalized keratinocytes (hTERT cells. Rheinwald Lab) and primary keratinocytes (NHEK – normal human epithelial keratinocytes) were used. They were grown to subconfluence and treated with several concentrations of ALA ranging from 1 mM to 0.1 nM before being illuminated with narrow band blue light (NBBL at 405-420 nm) and/or treated with cytokines such as IFN-gamma (5-10 U/ml) and TNF-alpha (2.5-25ng/ml).

Efforts were made to mimic the therapeutic milieu of clinical trials, including exposure to ALA, incubation time, and dose used for NBBL exposure. ELISA was performed to detect pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1 alpha and ICAM-1.

Results
Study results showed that treatment with ALA or BL alone is not cytotoxic to NHEK and hTERT keratinocytes. However, the combination of ALA with cytokines (IFN-gamma, TNF-alpha) caused cell death ranging from 27 to 48 percent. Adding NBBL to ALA and cytokines produced increased cell death ranging from 56 to 62 percent.
Based on MTT assays, all tested concentrations of ALA were equivalently cytotoxic.
The ELISA data demonstrated that ALA up-regulated the IL-1 alpha level whereas NBBL reduced the IL-1 alpha level; induction of IL-1 alpha by ALA with or without NBBL is not significantly dose-dependent. NBBL decreased IL-1alpha production when used alone (Shnitkind & Lee, J Drugs Derm 2006 5 (7): 605); this suppressive effect was lost when used in combination with ALA or with both ALA and cytokines (IFN-gamma + TNF-alpha).

Comparison
Comparison of IL-1 alpha production in NHEK and hTERT cells showed that the magnitude of up-regulation is higher in hTERT. When ALA was added to cytokines/NBBL treated cells, there was about a twofold increase in IL-1 alpha in NHEK cells and an up to five-fold increase production of IL-1 alpha in hTERT cells. The authors also noted that ICAM-1 upregulation was similar to IL-1 alpha.
The department of dermatology at SUNY-Downstate was one of the multicenter sites selected to study the effect of ALA-PDT therapy in treating patients (248 subjects) with moderate-to-severe acne.

Adverse Effects
According to Dr. Lee, side effects such as burning, stinging, and redness have been reported and are probably related to the cell cytotoxicity and increased IL-1 alpha level in the epidermis. Post-treatment efficacy evaluations show that patients remain well controlled up to three months following their last treatment.

"Though there is still some fine-tuning that needs to be done with ALA-PDT in the treatment of acne, this line of therapy is very important in light of the current and increasing worry clinicians have with prolonged use of systemic antibiotics and the risks of isotretinoin therapy.

"Acne therapy with ALA-PDT offers a different treatment approach and a possible treatment solution, especially for inflammatory acne,” Dr. Lee says.

Men, Young And Unmarried Ignore Skin Cancer Warnings

Men are twice as likely as women to not protect their skin in the sun, despite more men dying from melanoma than women, according to research due to be released at the British Association of Dermatologists annual conference in Glasgow next month.
The shocking survey of 1213 adults formed part of the Northern Ireland Omnibus Survey published in September 2008, a regular survey of the lifestyle and views of the people of Northern Ireland*.
It also found that people in their teens and early twenties are less likely than any other age group to use sun protection, despite increasing numbers of melanoma being diagnosed in this age group. One in ten people surveyed (10%) take no protective measures at all against sun exposure (compared to 8% in 2000). Men (14% vs. 7% women), unmarried people (13% vs. 8%), those with no children (11% vs. 9%) and those in their teens and early twenties (12%) are among the worst offenders.
Most people surveyed (70%) use sunscreen as their primary method of sun protection, despite warnings from dermatologists that shade and clothing should be the first line of defence against sun damage, with sunscreen offering additional protection. Of respondents who use sunscreen, almost one in three (30%) use a low protection sunscreen of below SPF 15. This is an improvement from 57% in the same survey carried out in 2000 but is still concerning as the British Association of Dermatologists recommends that people use a high protection sunscreen of at least SPF 30.
Only a quarter of respondents (24%) protect their skin by seeking shade during the middle of the day, with a similar number (23%) covering up in the sun. Worryingly both methods are less popular in 2008 than they were in 2000. Those most likely to protect their skin with clothing and shade fell into the 45 to 64 year and over-65 age groups. Women are more likely to use shade than men (29% vs. 18%), as are married people compared to unmarried people (26% vs. 19%), and those with children compared to those with no children (25% vs. 23%).
Sunscreen use is greatest among those aged 25 to 44 (77%), women (76% vs. 63%), married people (75% vs. 67%) and people with children (76% vs. 65%). Interestingly, although men are less likely to use sunscreen than women, those that do are more likely to use a SPF of 15 or over (73% vs. 68%).Dr Rhonda Boyle, Dermatologist at Royal Victoria Hospital, Belfast, and one of the study's authors, said: "Unfortunately the results of this survey demonstrate that, despite public health campaigns, the use of sun protection and attitudes to sun safety in Northern Ireland remain concerning."
Nina Goad of the British Association of Dermatologists said: "Sunscreen seems to be the preferred way of protecting the skin, but it seems that many people may be forgetting to cover up and seek shade in the sun. "It is worrying that people in their teens and early twenties are the least likely of any age group to protect their skin in the sun. This may be due to the prevailing fashion for tanned skin, but I would have hoped that young people would be more likely to use self tan products to get a bronzed look, rather than risking skin cancer. It may be that as people get older and start to see the visible sun damage on their skin, including wrinkles, they then take steps to protect themselves. "It is really interesting that unmarried people and those without children take the least care in the sun - it would be worth examining what the obstacles are for these people, and perhaps we need to look at tailoring our prevention campaigns for specific audiences in the future." The incidence of malignant melanoma in Northern Ireland (NI) has increased more than three fold since the 1970's with an almost parallel rise in melanoma-related deaths. Summary of results
Age-
Those aged below 25 are more likely than other age groups to use no sun protection at all (12% of this age group) - Sunscreen use is highest in the 25 to 44 year age group (77%)- Use of clothing and shade to protect skin is highest in those aged 45 and over.
Sex-
Women are more likely than men to use sunscreen (76% vs. 63%) and to protect the skin with shade (29% vs. 18%). - Men are twice as likely as women to use no sun protection at all (14% vs. 7%)- Although fewer men than women use sunscreen, those that do are more likely to use a SPF of 15 or over (73% vs. 68%).
Marital status and children
Married people are more likely than unmarried people to heed sun safety advice, as are people with children compared to those with no children: - Those who are unmarried are more likely than married people to use no sun protection (clothing, shade or sunscreen) at all (13% vs. 8%)- People with no children are more likely to not use any sun protection (clothing, shade or sunscreen) than those with children (11% vs. 9%)- Married people are more likely to use sunscreen than unmarried people (75% vs. 67%), as are subjects with children compared to those with no children (76% vs. 65%).
Choice of sun protection-
70% use sunscreen as their primary method of sun protection. - Of those who use sunscreen only 70% use a SPF of 15 or over. - Only a quarter of respondents (24%) protect their skin by seeking shade during the middle of the day, with a similar number (23%) covering up in the sun. - Notably one in ten people (10%) take no protective measures at all against sun exposure.
Facts about skin cancer-
There are three main types of skin cancer: malignant melanoma - the deadliest but least common, squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and basal cell carcinoma (BCC). - BCC and SCC are collectively known as 'non-melanoma skin cancer'. BCC is the most common skin cancer. - In the UK, more than 100,000 new cases of skin cancer are diagnosed annually, making it the most common cancer. Of these, more than 10,000 are melanoma. - There are over 2,300 deaths from skin cancer annually in the UK. - The annual incidence of melanoma worldwide is increasing faster than that of any other cancer. - In just 30 years, cases of melanoma across Great Britain have quadrupled in men and tripled in women. - Melanoma is more common in women than men, but there is a faster rate of increase in men and more men die from the disease, possibly due to late detection. - In as many as 4 out of 5 cases, skin cancer is preventable, so follow the British Association of Dermatologists' sun safety tips:

You don't have to avoid the sun all year, and some sunshine can be good for you as it helps the body to produce vitamin D, but taking a few steps when out and about in the summer sun or when on a sunshine holiday will help to protect you from sunburn and the risk of skin cancer, particularly if you are pale skinned. - Protect the skin with clothing, including a hat, T shirt and UV protective sunglasses - Spend time in the shade between 11am and 3pm when it's sunny - Use a sunscreen of at least SPF 30 (SPF 50 for children or people with pale skin) which also has high UVA protection- Keep babies and young children out of direct sunlight - The British Association of Dermatologists recommends that you tell your doctor about any changes to a mole - if your GP is concerned about your skin, make sure you see a Consultant Dermatologist (on the GMC register of specialists), the most expert person to diagnose a skin cancer. Your GP can refer you via the NHS.

Sunscreens should not be used as an alternative to clothing and shade, rather they offer additional protection. No sunscreen will provide 100% protection.

The Boston Globe reports that many dermatologists note growing concern about outdoor exercise among their sports- and fitness-minded patients. Dermatologist Jeffery Dover, MD, advises working out early in the morning or very late in the day to avoid the harshest rays, consistent and ample sunscreen use, and covering up. To date, dermatologists don't have a simple chart that translates hours spent in the sun to years added to one's appearance or increased skin cancer risk, but can say for sure that the more time spent in the sun, the more damage skin endures.

Barbara Gilchrest, MD, professor of dermatology at Boston University School of Medicine, pointed out that all sun damage is damaging and cumulative, and said that the increasing incidence of all skin cancers in the US is widely attributed to sun exposure. In particular, melanoma has increased more than 40-fold since statistics were first kept in the 1930s, she explained. And, according to the American Academy of Dermatology, excessive sun exposure...can promote melanoma development.

Bleach baths may help children with Eczema

Participating in a clinical trial in 2006 changed 7-year-old Ben Kieffer's life, says his mom, Jennifer.

Ben had suffered from severe eczema since he was 5 weeks old, with relentless itchy, painful flares of the skin condition and many rounds of antibiotics to treat related infections.
"His calves were covered in scales and his hands would crack and swell with infection," Jennifer Kieffer tells WebMD. "It was really tough for him, but we saw a big change almost immediately after he joined the study."
While Ben's improvement was remarkable, even more remarkable is the fact that the treatment he received was not a high-tech, expensive new drug or topical cream.
In fact, it's about as low tech, and inexpensive, as you can get.
When his eczema flared, Ben soaked daily in bath water containing about a quarter cup of household bleach.
He still takes frequent bleach baths, even though his eczema is much improved. His mom says the baths have made all the difference.
"For pennies' worth of bleach to work so well is just amazing," she says.

Bleach Baths for Eczema

As many as one in five school-aged children have eczema, known medically as atopic dermatitis. The skin condition is characterized by itchy, inflamed skin that often becomes scabby and raw from scratching.
Frequent scratching, which breaks the skin, often leads to skin infections, including difficult to treat ones like methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA).
Pediatric dermatologist Amy Paller, MD, tells WebMD that about 90% of people with eczema have staph on their skin, compared to about 25% of the population at large.
Staph infections have traditionally been treated with antibiotics, but bleach baths can also kill the microbes that cause infection.
Paller now recommends bleach baths to all her patients with moderate to severe eczema.
Along with Jennifer Huang, MD, and colleagues from Northwestern University's Feinberg School of Medicine, Paller conducted one of the first formal studies to examine the treatment.
Thirty-one children between the ages of 6 months and 17 years, including Ben Kieffer, were included in the study.
All had moderate to severe eczema and were also infected with staph, and all were being treated with a 14-day course of antibiotics.
In addition to the drug treatment, half of the patients took bleach baths and the other half took "placebo" baths without bleach.
The study design called for the patients to soak in the bleach or placebo baths twice a week, but Paller says more frequent baths may be useful during eczema flare-ups.
Children in the study who took the bleach baths had a reduction in eczema severity that was five times greater than the children who took the placebo baths after three months.
The results were so dramatic that researchers stopped the three-month study early so that all the children could benefit from the bleach baths, Paller says.
Children who were randomly assigned to the bleach-bath group of the study also dabbed a topical antibiotic up their nose (where staph bacteria are often harbored). But Paller says she has many patients who don't use this intervention and still improve with bleach baths.
The study appears in the May issue of the journal Pediatrics.
"This is not going to be a cure for everybody, but there is certainly a subset of patients who will benefit tremendously," Paller says.

Bleach for Community-Acquired MRSA?

Dermatologist Cheryl Lee Eberting, MD, who practices in Alpine, Utah, is a big believer in bleach baths.
She recommends them for her patients with eczema, and she says they may have a wider application for addressing a rapidly emerging public health threat -- community-acquired MRSA.
While most MRSA infections still occur in hospital settings, community acquired infections of drug-resistant staph are on the rise. Staph bacteria that are most widely publicized as a cause of breakouts have been traced to gyms and locker rooms.
"If you play a contact sport or work out at the health club a lot, it probably wouldn't hurt to take an occasional bleach bath," Eberting says. Talk to your doctor before doing so.

Meet Dr. Cheryl Lee D. Eberting

Dr. Eberting graduated Cum Laude from Brigham Young University and graduated with honors from the University of Utah School of Medicine. She did her internship year at LDS Hospital in Salt Lake City, Utah. Her Dermatology residency was in Providence, Rhode Island at Roger Williams Medical Center (an affiliate of Boston University).

Following this, Dr. Eberting did a clinical research fellowship in the Dermatology Branch of the National Cancer Institute at the National Institutes of Health in Bethesda, Maryland. Dr. Eberting is a Board Certified Dermatologist and a fellow of the American Association of Dermatology.

Prior to setting up her practice in Alpine, Utah, Dr. Eberting practiced dermatology for two years at English Dermatology Center in Phoenix, Arizona. Dr. Eberting grew up in the Seattle, Washington area and comes from a large family. She spent alot of time in Asia and served as a missionary for the church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in Fukuoka, Japan.

She helped fund her medical school education by starting and running an import company, Nature's Handmade Paper, LLC. It was sold in 2004. Dr. Eberting is fluent in Japanese and speaks some Spanish.

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