Psoriasis is a common autoimmune disorder of the skin that results in the formation of thickened and elevated plaques of cells that remain covered by scales (loose, whitish-silver scales). In psoriasis, the skin cells multiply at an alarming rate resulting in the scaling of the skin. Though non-contagious, psoriasis can be itchy and often painful. Psoriasis mainly affects the scalp, elbow, and knees. In some, the condition may also affect the palms, feet (soles of the feet), and the torso.

As per a survey, psoriasis is known to affect approximately 2.2% of the total adult population. Psoriasis can also affect children (children under the age group of 5-8 years are mostly affected by this inflammatory skin disorder).

Psoriasis Can of Different Types

Plaque Psoriasis: As the name suggests, this type of psoriasis results in the formation of plaques of cells (thickened and elevated) on the skin surface. One of the most common types of psoriasis, plaque psoriasis affects the scalp, knees, and elbow.
Pustular Psoriasis: Pustular psoriasis mainly affects the hands and the feet of the adults whereby white blisters (pus-filled) appear on the affected area of the skin. The skin also appears red and inflamed.
Guttate Psoriasis: This type of psoriasis usually affects the legs, torso, and arms. Common in children (sometimes young adults), Guttate psoriasis results in the formation of small red spots.
Inverse Psoriasis: In Inverse psoriasis, shiny red (bright red) inflammations or lesions appear on the armpits, groyne, breasts.
Erythrodermic Psoriasis: Though rare, this type of psoriasis is marked by extreme redness of the skin. There is also shedding of the scales (in the form of sheets). The skin more or less appears sun burnt.
Symptoms:
The symptoms associated with psoriasis include

Elevated and inflamed red patches covered by whitish- silver scales (plaques).
The nails appear thick and pitted.
There is a pain in the joints followed by swelling.
At times, the affected skin may crack resulting in bleeding.
Soreness, itching and a burning sensation around the red patches.
In psoriasis of the scalp,

There may be the formation of scales (usually mild).
In severe cases, there may be crusting (the full scalp) which can spread to the forehead, ears (inside and behind), in the beard or even around the nose.
Treatment:
Though there is no definite treatment for psoriasis of the body and the scalp, the following medications may prove to be helpful

Medications like Methotrexate and Cyclosporine (immunosuppressant drugs), Retinoids, and Biologics (injected intravenously) may provide some relief.
Patients may also benefit from light therapy, anthralin, topical corticosteroids as well as vitamin D analogs.
Precaution and care
For psoriasis of the scalp

Before the treatment, it is important to remove (and soften) the scales. Medicated shampoos that contain salicylic acid can be used to remove the scales.
Use of petroleum jelly or medicated oils and ointments (as recommended by the doctor) can be helpful.
For better results, you can keep the scalp covered (preferably with a shower cap) after applying the ointment.
For Psoriasis of the Body

Avoid the skin from getting dry. You can use a medicated lotion or a moisturizer.
Drinking and smoking can worsen the situation. Avoid these vices as much as you can.
Avoid using hot water while bathing. To keep your skin moisturised, you can add oil or salt to the water (bathwater).

Psoriasis - Types, Symptoms, and Treatment

It is hard to escape the harsh rays of the sun during summers. Staying outdoors for too long will lead to tanned skin, which is a sign of skin damage. Sometimes skin damage can get severe and lead to diseases like skin cancer. To prevent your skin from damaging and keep it healthy, here are seven pro tips:

1. Aever skip the sunscreen: sunscreen with spf 15 or more will help in protecting your skin from harmful uv rays. Even if you are going to be out in the sun for more than 15 minutes, make sure to apply sunscreen generously. Remember, the higher the spf, the better is the protection.

2. Always wear sunglasses: sun damage can lead to premature signs of aging; especially wrinkles around the eyes since the skin around your eyes are very thin. Wider lenses that can block out 99% of sun rays are recommended to protect your eyes.

3. Your lips need protection too: just like your eyes, the skin is much more delicate and thinner on your lips. Your lips are susceptible to tanning as well, along with the risk of fine lines around the mouth if not well protected. Always apply a lip protection balm when going out.

4. Upf clothing: garment with special upf (ultraviolet protection factor) coating can shield you from harmful uva and uvb rays. Like spf, the higher the upf, they better it will protect you. Regular clothes can protect you as well, provided they are woven tightly and are of a darker color.

5. Keeping a close look at the time: uv rays are the strongest and mostly harmful from 10 a. M. To 4 p. M. If you are out during these hours, do not forget the sunscreen, umbrella and sunglasses.

6. Don't forget to protect your head: a hat with a brim of 2 to 3 inches all around shield the skin of your neck, face and ears and protects you from skin damage.

7. Apply religiously: even if your sunscreen promises that it is sweat proof, waterproof or rub proof, it never completely is, as no product works the same for everybody. So apply your sunscreen throughout the day.

How to Prevent Our Skin From Sun Damage

A wart (also known as verruca) is generally a small, rough tumor, typically on hands and feet but often other locations, that can resemble a solid blister.

Warts are a type of infection caused by viruses in the human papillomavirus (HPV) family. There are more than 100 types of HPV viruses. Warts can grow on all parts of body. They can grow on skin, on the inside of mouth, on genitals and on rectal area. Common types of HPV tend to cause warts on the skin (such as the hands and fingers), while other HPV types tend to cause warts on the genitals and rectal area. Some people are more naturally resistant to the HPV viruses and don t seem to get warts as easily as other people.

Warts come in all shapes and sizes. They are caused by the human papilloma virus (HPV) and can happen to any individual, irrespective of age or sex. They can grow on external skin, genitalia and even on the rectal area. Viral warts are contagious when one comes into contact with the skin of infected person. Sometimes they disappear on their own in a few months and at other times, they can last for years. Usually harmless in nature, warts become a cause of concern due to their unsightly appearance. 

Common Homeopathic Remedies: 

Homeopathy treats the person as a whole. It means that homeopathic treatment focuses on the patient as a person, as well as his pathological condition. The homeopathic medicines are selected after a full individualizing examination and case-analysis, which includes the medical history of the patient, physical and mental constitution etc. A miasmatic tendency (predisposition/susceptibility) is also often taken into account for the treatment of chronic conditions. The homeopathic remedies for warts given below indicate the therapeutic affinity but this is not a complete and definite guide to the treatment of this condition.

Homeopathy is a medicinal repository when we talk about treating viral warts. Medication is selected after a careful examination of the patient and considering his/her medical history. Here are some of the most advisable homeopathic medicines that are usually prescribed for viral warts. 

Thuja Occidentalis: Thuja is one of the most commonly prescribed homeopathic medicines for various kinds of warts. Especially if no other remedy is clearly prescribed, Thuja can be considered. 
Antimonium Crudum (Ant-c): This remedy works best for hard and smooth warts which appear in groups. These kinds of warts are often found on soles and hands. 
Calcarea Carbonica (Cal C.): Useful for treating warts that appear on the neck, this homeopathic remedy treats warts that are round, hard and appear solitarily. 
Causticum (Caust.): This remedy treats old, large warts that usually appear on the face (nose), under the fingernails or even on the fingertips. Such warts are hard, painful and bleed easily. 
Dulcamara (Dulc.): Flat looking warts appearing on the face and hands call for this remedy. These warts are brown to blackish in colour and get worse in cold or damp weather. 
Graphites (Graph.): This remedy works for warts that are periungual or corn-like in appearance. They appear on palms or soles of the feet and have a yellowish tinge. This medicine also works for patients of eczema. 
Different individuals respond differently to homeopathic treatments. It is important to take a holistic approach to the case in point and start treatment accordingly. We have treated more than 1200 such cases with Homeopathic treatment, so that dermatologists refers patients to us.

Viral Warts and Its Solution With Homeopathy

6 Best Home Remedies To Get Rid of Acne

Acne causes skin damage and leaves marks that ruin appearance. Although these scars cannot be completely removed, they can be reduced to an extent that they become invisible.

Give your skin these tested remedies to get rid of pimple scars-

1) Cleansing of Lemons: Lemons, as you know are rich in vitamin C, which helps in the synthesis of collagen (the connecting tissues of skin) in the body. Therefore, regular use of lemons helps in keeping your skin free from blemishes or scars. Treating with lemon includes consuming lemons as well as application of lemon juice on the scars and washing it off.

2) Smoothening of Aloe Vera: Aloe Vera gel application is extremely beneficial for skin, it not only reduces the scars but also soothes the skin. It also smoothens out the skin as well as lightens the complexion.

3) Soothing of Sandalwood: Sandalwood or chandan is antiseptic and anti inflammatory in nature. It is therefore highly effective at cleansing of scars as well as soothing facial skin. Regular application of sandal wood powder mixed with rose water gives a glow to your skin that nothing else can.

4) Healing of Fenugreek: Fenugreek or Methi seeds are anti-inflammatory and are also a smoothening agent. It heals skin conditions and greatly reduces acne scars. Its extract can be applied externall for the reduction in the intensity of the scars  appearance.

5) Protection of Neem Leaves: Neem leaves are effective against a lot of skin problems, from acne and eczema to ringworm. Its alkaloids content gives Neem its antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal properties. Neem also helps in removal of toxins from the body. It can be crushed and externally applied in the form of a pack or its bitter juice can be comsumed.

6) Care of Apple cider vinegar: Vinegar promotes peeling off skin, which is helpful when you have scars. It is also antiseptic in nature.  It can be applied on the scalp using cotton, with a little dilution. The vinegar is particularly helpful in dandruff.

Have any further questions on how Ayurveda can help you get beautiful skin? Click on consult privately to ask me.

From Lybrate: If you found this tip useful, please thank the doctor by clicking on the heart icon below. Also, spread good health by sharing this tip with your loved ones over WhatsApp, Facebook and other media.

6 Best Home Remedies To Get Rid of Acne

5 hidden causes of acne, revealed!

Acne is a skin condition that occurs when the openings of oil glands become clogged with oil and dead skin cells. Acne usually appears on the face, neck, chest, back and shoulders. The pimples and bumps heal slowly, and when one begins to disappear, others seem to crop up. Depending on its severity, acne can cause emotional distress and can also scar the skin. But what causes the recurrence of breakouts?

These are attributed to certain hidden causes, which are:

1. Your drug prescriptions

Steroids found in prescription drugs are a key offender, whether taken internally or topically. If taken internally, the offending ingredient will be listed as prednisone, which is the tablet form of steroid. Prednisone is used to treat inflammatory diseases like poison ivy, allergies and arthritis. If medications are taken topically, it could aggravate acne or cause steroid acne. Oral contraceptives are also a common cause of acne.

2. Your beauty routine

Acne caused by topical lotions, creams and makeup are known as acne cosmetica, commonly appearing on face, neck, hairline and scalp. Applying a product regularly to an acne-prone area can do more harm than good. Some people go to bed with ointments or oils in their hair that can get on the pillowcase and then rub on your face. It's best to put a clean towel over your pillowcase every night to prevent buildup.

3. Your cell phone

Cell phones gather all kinds of dirt and bacteria and are a big cause of acne on the chin and around the mouth. Wiping down the screen of your smartphones every day with alcohol or cleaning wipes will keep your phone and your face clean.

4. Using toothpaste to treat a zit

Certain toothpaste can actually cause you to develop acne or an acne-like eruption on the lower parts of your face, including your chin. Fluoride and other whitening and anti-cavity ingredients are quite abrasive and could potentially burn your skin, cause irritation and initiate breakouts.

5. Your workout gear

It's not the act of exercising that is causing breakouts but other issues. If you are using a communal yoga mat, you may be on the side that someone else's feet or perspiration had touched before, with the physical contact causing breakouts. It's best to put a clean towel over it before working out, even if it is your personal mat.

Also, workout gear that constantly rubs in a certain area can cause frictional acne. Constant rubbing ends up making you sweat, causing skin irritation and eventually developing into tiny red bumps. Though it looks like a heat rash, it is actually acne.

If you would like to consult with me privately, please click on 'consult'.
Related Tip: Do You Know that Dandruff Causes ACNE?

5 Hidden Causes of Acne, Revealed!

The main pigment responsible for the hair and skin color is melanin. Melanocytes are the cells involved in the formation of melanin. Vitiligo is a dermatological condition (depigmentation) characterized by white spots or patches that appear in the body. Lack or absence of melanin is often responsible for the appearance of the white patches. Improper functioning or destruction of the melanocytes may interfere with the cell's ability to produce melanin. The condition can also affect your hair, scalp, eyebrows, and eyelashes, resulting in their premature graying or whitening.

Vitiligo can be localized (only one or very few body parts are affected), generalized (affecting many body parts) or segmented (the condition affects only one side of the body). An autoimmune condition such as Diabetes (Type-1) or Hashimoto's thyroiditis may trigger the destruction of the melanocytes. Vitiligo may also be a hereditary condition. In some cases, stress or exposure to harmful chemicals may be responsible for the destruction of the melanocytes.

While many people confuse vitiligo with leucoderma, there is a small difference between the two. Like vitiligo, the white watches in leucoderma appear due to the destruction of the melanocytes. However, the destruction of the melanocytes in the case of leucoderma may result from an accident, a cut, burn or tear.

When it comes to the treatment, many people prefer homeopathy over conventional treatments and medications. Being natural with negligible or no side effects are the main USP of homeopathic treatment. People with vitiligo and leucoderma have benefitted immensely from the treatment. The treatment may not provide you with immediate results, but it is worth your time and patience. Most of the homeopathic medicines activate the melanocytes. This activation triggers the formation of the melanin, thereby resulting in re-pigmentation.

The following homeopathic medicines are very effective against vitiligo and leucoderma.

Silicea 30: Silicea 30 is helpful for people with a sensitive skin that appears waxy and pale. In such patients, the patches or spots are not typically white but slightly rose-colored. There is extensive sweating of the hands and feet. The fingertips also appear cracked with brittle nails.
Arsenic Album: In some patients with vitiligo or leucoderma, the skin may appear dry and rough. In addition to the white patches, a person may complain of exhaustion and asthma (not in all patients). The person may show signs of extreme restlessness and anxiety. They freak out over cleanliness and neatness. Such patients benefit immensely from Arsenic Album.
Calcarea Carb is used to treat vitiligo where the patches appear milky white in color. There may be a weakness in the bones as well.
Sepia: Sepia is used when people with vitiligo distant themselves from their families and loved ones.
Nitric Acid 30 is used in the case of the white spots appearing at the mouth, nipples, nose, eyes, penis, vulva (mucous junctions).


Also, Sulfur, Psoralea Coryl 3X, Staphysagria, Borax, are equally helpful in treating vitiligo and leucoderma. To play it safe, use the medicines only after consulting a specialist. Self-medication may not be a wise idea.

Vitiligo And Leucoderma - Homeopathy Remedies Help In Treating Them?

Don't wait any longer, manage your Facelift online with a Lybrate doctor today

Consult for Facelift - Online and Easy!

FilterClear All

COMMON SPECIALITIES

COMMON ISSUES