Skin Karma

There would only be a handful of people who are happy with the way their skin looks. While acne and pimples are the concerns at a younger age, but with age the concerns shift to dark circles and pigmentation. Both light and dark pigments become worrisome, and one continuously looks for ways to manage them.

The skin has a pigment called melanin, which is responsible for the color; more the melanin component, darker the skin complexion. This can either decrease or increase and can affect people of any age or gender. Whether or not you will be a victim of pigmentation depends on genetics, sun exposure, skin care regime, hormonal changes (puberty, pregnancy), stress levels and hormonal changes. While hyperpigmentation is very common with old age, hypopigmentation is not very normal and it is advisable to seek medical attention to rule out more serious underlying diseases. The most common types of hyperpigmentation include:

1. Lentigo: It is also known as multiple freckles, if caused exclusively due to sun exposure, it is called solar lentigines or dark spots or age spots.
2. Melasma: This is caused by hormonal changes, especially during pregnancy.

Preventing hyperpigmentation:

1. Minimizing sun damage is the first and most important step in reducing onset and severity of pigmentation. Use a sunscreen that at least has an SPF of 15 regularly. It is not just on sunny days that the sun causes damage. If you are heading out (even cloudy days), it means the sun can damage you. Avoid sun exposure as much as possible if you know you are prone to pigmentation.
2. Regular use of scrubs and exfoliators ensures the buildup of dead cells is removed, which itself leads to hyperpigmentation in many people. For dry or sensitive skin, exfoliate 1 to 2 times a week. For oily skin, exfoliate 2 to 3 times a week. Try to avoid scrubs on acne as the abrasive effect can worsen the condition.

Treatment for Hyperpigmentation-

Pigmentation issues run in the family and if your mother and grandmother had it, it is very likely you are prone for hyperpigmentation too. In these cases, aggressive skin care routine can help improve appearance. Ensure that the skin care products used contain at least an SPF of 15 and other active ingredients like alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs). The glycolic and lactic acids are examples of AHAs, which aid in removing dead cells that form on the skin. This produces a clearer skin with lesser discoloration. Vitamin C and E and kojic acid are also effective for treating hyperpigmentation. Other dermatological treatments-

1. Chemical Peels: Chemical Peels are a more intensive treatment used in cases of more persistent pigmentation or to hasten the lightening effects of the topical prescription products. Peels work by exfoliating the upper-most layer of your skin and the dark area with it. There are many different types of peels and they are usually solutions that the dermatologist applies to the skin.
2. Medication: Topical treatments such as hydroquinone, azelaic acid, corticosteroids, tretinoin cream, GA, and trichloroacetic acid. Skin whitening products are used for clinical treatment of postinflammatory hyperpigmentation.

In addition to these, ensure you eat a healthy diet with loads of fresh fruits and vegetables, stay hydrated, reduce sun exposure, and you surely will have be able to deal with pigmentation.

The branch of plastic surgery that is generally used for the treatment of burns and other wounds is known as reconstructive plastic surgery. There are numerous surgical methods that fall under this category, which is effectively used to treat these injuries and the related issues that they cause.

What are medical issues caused by burns and wounds?

Some of the most frequently occurring issues that stem from burns and similar wounds are as follows:

- Restriction of mobility

- Aesthetic disfigurement and scarring

- Loss of sensation in the affected area

The different issues are caused by varying kinds of burns and injuries and, hence, each case must be approached in a different manner for remedy.

Different kinds of plastic surgeries that are used for treatment

Depending on the nature of the injury, your plastic surgeon may opt for any of the following surgical methods for treating the problem.

1. Skin grafting

In this procedure, skin is removed from one part of the body and transplanted to the affected area. This method is used for the treatment of burns. There are two types of this surgical procedure - one removes a few layers from the dermis of the donor area (split-thickness graft) while the other removes the entire dermis (full-thickness graft). Recovery time depends on the kind of procedure used. Skin grafting is occasionally used for breast and nose reconstruction as well.

2. Microsurgery

This type of surgery makes the use of a microscope in reconstructive procedures for working on minuscule veins, arteries, and nerves for repairing damaged areas. Microsurgery is often used alongside other surgical procedures for re-attaching body parts, relieving paralysis of the face and in the reconstruction of breasts.

3. Tissue expansion

This method is used to induce the growth of extra skin on the body that can be used for reconstructive purposes. This is done by inserting a balloon expander underneath the skin that slowly gets filled with saline solution and makes the skin swell. This excess skin is then used for correction or reconstruction of the affected area.

4. Free flap procedure

This procedure involves the transfer of skin, bone, muscle and blood supply from the donor area to the damaged area for repairing purposes. Microsurgery is often performed alongside this treatment method, which is used most frequently for breast reconstruction or after the removal of cancer from the neck or head.

Luscious, healthy hair is undoubtedly one of the most prominent feature that adds charm to your personality. However, a minor or severe form of physical or mental stress and related problems can adversely affect your hair health and growth pattern.

Are you losing too many hair strands in a day?

If yes, then tentatively, how many?

If the number is about 100, then you need not worry, however, if it is beyond 100 you need to get cautious.

On an average, an adult has 100,000 to 150,000 hair and each hair follicle has its own life cycle, and traverses through three phases during its growth phase; anagen (active hair growth takes place), catagen (transitional hair growth), and telogen (resting phase after which the hair sheds off). Hair fall is a normal physiological process in which the hair completes its life cycle and sheds off. However, excessive hair fall is a health concern that needs thorough evaluation and treatment.

Have you heard of telogen effluvium?

Telogen effluvium (TE) also called as hair loss is a common dermatological condition which causes increased shedding of hair. This happens when there is a premature arrest of the growth of hair follicles and these follicles enter into the telogen phase (resting) followed by diffuse thinning of hair on the scalp. In most cases, the hair thins on the top of the scalp compared to the sides and back of the scalp. The hair loss is temporary and the hair soon recovers.

How common is telogen effluvium in India?

Studies suggest that TE is amongst the most common cause of hair loss. It can occur in both males and females. However, it is found to be more common in females.

What are the common causes of telogen effluvium?

Common causes of TE include certain medical condition, stress, pregnancy, crash dieting, nutritional deficiencies, intake of certain medicines, and physical trauma.

A common cause of hair loss in the Indian population is diet. A major proportion of the Indian population consumes a diet lacking essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals, predisposing the population to this condition. It, therefore, becomes more important to include vital minerals such as zinc, amino acids (such as L-lysine), and vitamins (such as B6 and B12) to your daily diet or to take supplements available in the market.

Are Indians at an increased risk of nutritional deficiencies?

Yes, Indians are at an increased risk of nutritional deficiencies. Several research studies conducted in the past outline a direct association of nutritional deficiencies with hair loss.

In fact, according to a clinical survey published in Indian Medical Gazette, 9 out of 10 people in the country are unable to consume adequate amount of proteins. Working population settled in urban areas have been found to be most commonly affected by protein deficiencies.

How can you ensure healthy and luscious hair?

Simple 7 steps to healthy hair

Volumes of literature support the need for adding nutritional supplements to the diet to avert the occurrence of hair fall. Often TE gets better once the trigger for the condition is taken care of. However, if in case it persists make sure you consult a medical professional at the earliest.

Step 1: It’s all about what you eat (have a BALANCED DIET!!!)

• Considering the fact, that a major part of the Indian population are green eaters and they often run short of essential nutrients, one needs to make a conscious effort to have a balanced and nutrient rich diet.
• Add green leafy vegetables that are an abundant source of iron, zinc, and other vitamins and minerals that are essential for healthy hair growth. Add PROTEIN to your diet. Include milk products, soya products, nuts, fish, lean meat seeds, sprouts, and cereals to your daily diet.
• Opt for foods packed with vitamin E, like almonds, walnuts, or strawberries which improve scalp circulation, as well as vitamin C-rich foods like broccoli, tomatoes, and other citrus fruits.

Step 2: Massage your scalp regularly

Massage has been found to improve the blood circulation to the hair follicles and stimulates hair growth. Try essential oils such as olive oil, castor oil, rosemary oil, and coconut oil to massage your scalp. Warm oil helps penetrate the scalp more effectively. You can also apply hair serums that are enriched with nutrients that nourish the hair and keep it healthy.

Step 3: Choose your SHAMPOO wisely

Watch out for harsh chemicals like parabens, lauryl sulfate, and sodium chloride. Parabens which are used as preservatives in shampoos can mimic as estrogens which lead to hair loss. Lauryl sulfate, an anionic surfactant used in many cleaning and hygiene products, also cause hair fall. You can also apply certain over-the-counter products that help in better penetration of anti-hair fall medications and enhance their action.

Step 4: Get sufficient Vitamin D (Don’t hide from the sun)

Little do we realize that sunlight actually plays a critical role in promoting hair growth. Sunlight helps you get your daily dose of Vitamin D which is helpful in managing hair fall, so don’t hide from it!

Step 5: Say NO to stress

Stress is amongst the key factors governing a happier and healthier you. So, make sure it does not serve as a roadblock in your health.

Eat healthy and bring in basic lifestyle changes in your day to day life to avert the chances of triggered hair fall.

Step 6: Go for hair growth supplements

-Keratin makes up most of our hair strands and amino acids such as cysteine, lysine, arginine, and methionine play a critical role in the formation of the hair strands. The market is loaded with several supplements (oral and topical) that help to provide the hair with essential nutrients and vitamins. You can choose to pick supplements that are a source of vital minerals and vitamins essential for hair growth.

Step 7: Seek help from a dermatologist/ trichologist

• In case your hair fall tends to worsen or does not improve with dietary and lifestyle changes, it is best to consult a dermatologist. He/she will examine your scalp and may suggest certain tests to rule out any underlying cause of hair fall. He/she may also prescribe some topical or oral medications and supplements to help manage hair fall better.
• So, go ahead and try these simple and effective everyday tips to ensure that your hair stays healthy and strong.

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Dark spots may occur due to acne,

Allergies, injuries or excess production of melanin which in turn is the result of ageing, excess exposure to the sun or genetic factors. Dark spots are embarrassing especially when you have them on the visible parts of your body like your face and arms.

Home remedies are the most economic and effective way to treat dark spots. They also give you a glowing and a younger looking skin.

Home Remedies for Black Spots on Your Face

1. Buttermilk

Take 4 tbsp of buttermilk and 2 tbsp of tomato juice and then mix well.

Apply the liquid and then wash your face. Both have bleaching properties and it remove these dark spots very easily. The black spots on face do not look good. Therefore, apply this method to look clean and clear.

2. Almonds

Soak 10 almonds in a bowl of milk and keep overnight.

You must ground the almonds after you peel the skin. Also, add 1 tbsp of sandalwood powder and ½ tbsp honey. Make a fine paste and apply on the face. Keep it for 30 minutes and then you must wash it off.

3. Oats

For skin exfoliation, the oatmeal powder is just best.

You can apply this oatmeal mask and remove all the patchiness from your face. Take some oats and grind and then add 3 tbsp lemon juice to make the paste. Scrub it on the face and then wash with warm water.

4. Potato

You can place the potato slice on the dark spots and keep them for a few minutes.

Then, you must wash your face with lukewarm water. Grate the potato and mix with honey and then apply on the face. It will definitely show you the bright result.

5. Aloe Vera

It has many medicinal properties and you can remove all the dark spots from the face.

Apply the Aloe Vera gel directly on the face, massage slowly and then sees the beneficial result. Now, you know how to remove dark spots with the help of Aloe Vera and witness the beneficial result.

6. Turmeric

It is a single item which is effective for all types of problems.

It can reduce sun spots, dark spots and patchiness from the skin. Take some milk, lemon juice and turmeric. Apply the paste on the spots and keep it for a few minutes and then wash it nicely.

Some dark spots are very hard to remove and you can consult with a dermatologist to get the desired result.

Acne is an inflammatory skin disorder which is prevalent in both males and females. When the sebaceous glands present on skin produce excessive sebum, the hair follicles present on skin get clogged leading to the formation of acne.

Acne can be triggered by a number of factors. Here are some of the common triggers for acne:

1. Genetics: If one or both parents have acne, their children have high chances of suffering from it as well. Genes influence the sensitivity of your skin towards hormones such as androgens and progesterone that trigger acne. They also influence the production of anti inflammatory chemicals in the skin and skin's response to bacteria.
2. Stress: The severity of acne can be correlated to the levels of stress a person is facing. While scientists are yet to figure the exact relationship between stress and acne; it is known that the cells that produce sebum or oil also act as stress receptors. Studies suggest that when a person is under stress, these cells produce excessive sebum that clogs pores on the skin leading to pimples.
3. Hormones: Hormones play an important role in skin health especially when it comes to women. Androgens or the male hormones present in both men and women, trigger acne by over stimulating the oil glands. Women may also see an increase in pimples during menstruation. This is due to the fluctuating levels of progesterone that stimulate the production of sebum.
4. Medication: Acne is one of the side effects to a few types of medication such as corticosteroids and anticonvulsants. However, this is not seen very often. On the other hand, drugs that contain hormones such as androgenic steroids almost always cause an acne breakout. Treatment for acne depends on the severity of the condition and its persistence. Mild cases can be easily treated with over the counter medication, but if your acne is severe and not affected by these medications, it best to consult a dermatologist.

The sunscreen acts as a layer of defense against sun radiation and keeps it from causing any damage. It is tremendously important to stress upon the importance of using sunscreen. Using a sunscreen every time you step outdoors and using it correctly is of vital importance to have healthy skin. No sunscreen provides absolute protection from the harmful rays of the sun, but using the right product in the right way will take you far in shielding yourself from their harshness.

Two important facts about sunscreen are:

1. You don't need to apply sunscreen if your makeup contains SPF - If any of your makeup products like foundation or powder contains SPF, do not assume that it can replace your sunscreen. Makeup containing SPF cannot protect your skin entirely as cosmetics are generally applied lightly and mostly doesn't cover places like T-zones, earlobes or hairline. To fully shield your skin from the sunrays, it's necessary to apply sunscreen or moisturizer with at least SPF 30 before putting makeup on. It is advisable to apply the sunscreen half an hour before stepping out for maximum benefit.
2. You do not need to apply sunscreen in winters or when you are indoors - Winter skin is relatively more sensitive than summer skin which is tanned. If one is in hilly areas or snow covered regions there is reflection of UV light from the snow that causes more skin damage. Also glass can allow UV rays to pass through and indoor lighting can also be a source of UV exposure, therefore you should apply sunscreen even when you are indoors.

Following are the do's and don'ts you need to follow before you apply sunscreen:

1. Do: Choose a sunscreen that is, at least, SPF 30+: That is the minimum protection that your skin requires. And if you must stay outdoors for an extended period of time, opt for a product with a higher SPF rating.
2. Do: Apply sunscreen 15-30 minutes before going outdoors: For the product to be most effective, it needs to be fully absorbed by the skin before exposure to the sun; the reason why applying approximately 30 minutes before you step out of home is a must.
3. Don't: Apply sunscreen only on the face: Make sure you apply it to every part of your body, especially the hands, forearms, thighs and ears, which are commonly exposed to the sun. Not only are these more prone to skin ageing, but the risk of melanoma (skin cancer) is also tremendously high in these portions of the body.

Foot problems are common among all people. Some foot problems are minor while some are severe and require immediate medical attention or surgery for treatment.

Here are some common foot problems, which require surgery:

1. Bunions: These are bony lumps, which develop on the side of a foot and also at the base of the big toe. Bunions occur due to a condition called hallux valgus. This causes the big toe joint to bend in the direction of the other toes, resulting in deformity. This condition requires surgical correction. The surgery required is known as osteotomy, and it involves the straightening of the big toe and metatarsals.
2. Hammertoes: Hallux valgus may result in your other toes being clawed or bent permanently. This condition is called hammer toes.

The damage can be eased by:

1. Arthroplasty: It involves the removal of a deformed joint between the toe bones, resulting in joint flexibility.
2. Arthrodesis: This process fuses the phalange and makes the toe stable.
3. Metatarsal surgery: In some cases, the forefoot joints may get damaged due to the inflammation of the joint lining or synovitis, which results in arthritis. These joints are called metatarsophalangeal joints and they can get dislocated due to arthritis damage. Pain and discomfort are felt. Surgery is required when the symptoms are very severe and other treatments fail. The nature of surgery depends on the severity. The most common surgery is done on the big toe to remove the heads of the metatarsophalangeal joints.
4. Ankle arthritis: This condition occurs because of osteoarthritis. The cartilages, which cover the ends of the bones roughen and get thin, which further thicken the bone underneath. It also results because of other rheumatic conditions. Pain and swelling is caused with an occasional joint deformity. Surgery may be required when the symptoms are very severe. The three major surgical options for treating ankle arthritis are ankle fusion, triple fusion and ankle replacement.
5. Achilles tendon disorders: The Achilles tendon accounts for being the largest body tendon and great force is put through it when moving the lower leg muscles. This wears down with old age and causes swellings within the tendon accompanied by pain. Sometimes, surgery is required for fixing this condition.
6. Morton's neuroma: This is a painful condition in which a nerve that gives sensation or feelings to the nearby toes is affected. The nerves are affected in the third and fourth toes. In case the symptoms are severe, a surgery is required.

Foot problems are prevalent in many people and they may occur due to various conditions or reasons. In case of severe symptoms, some foot problems require surgery for treatment. The most appropriate surgical method should be undertaken.

FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction) technique of hair transplant has obtained considerable popularity over the past several years. This developing technique makes use of a small round punch to extort follicular units from the patient's donor areas. The follicular units are grouped to form grafts and then relocated into the patient's balding areas.

What makes FUE better than FUT?
FUE is essentially a subtype of FUT (Follicular Unit Hair Transplantation). FUT can be performed in two ways, either by microscopic strip harvesting technique or by FUE. The less persistent nature and rapid healing time have made FUE gain that extra edge over FUT.

How FUE is performed?
The follicular unit grafts usually occur in a grouping of one, two, three or four hairs. These grafts are carefully harvested directly from the donor scalp using a small punch whose size typically varies from 0.7 to 1mm. Through a multiple step blunt dissection process, the underlying follicular unit is alienated from the neighboring tissues. Thereafter, the follicular units can be extorted with the help of forceps. The pores left behind post removal of follicle get healed within few days.

These extracted follicles are relocated to the patient's balding areas with the help of forceps. This hair transplantation is done either immediately after a single graft is extracted or after the entire harvest is over. The entire extraction and relocation of hair follicle is carried out by experts of the field, aided by trained technicians.

Advantages of FUE:

1. Less Invasive Technique: Unlike FUT, FUE involves individual extraction of follicles directly from the scalp using small punches. Thus, it does not require any closure of post-extortion wounds. This makes FUE less invasive in nature. This is definitely an advantage of FUE which makes it popular among the masses.
2. No Linear Scars and Rapid Healing: FUT often leaves behind linear scars on patient's occipital and temporal areas of the scalp. Furthermore, the wounds due to FUT take more time to heal. Both of these problems are considerably reduced by opting FUE. FUE creates small, circular scars after the transplantation, which goes undetected. The wounds also get healed much rapidly.
3. Option for Body Hair Transplantation: FUE opens wide options for probable donor areas of hair follicles. The hair follicles can be extracted from any part of donor's body which has got feasible hair growth. Thus, the hair supply gets increased for any hair repair operation.
4. Best Suited Eyebrow Reconstruction: All those typical hair transplants, which require extortion of limited number of single hair follicles, FUE is best suited. The hair follicles are individually examined and picked by the FUE surgeons as per the requirement. Therefore, it is best suited for critical procedures like eyebrow reconstruction.

By exploring the advantages of FUE, it can be easily concluded that this developing hair transplantation technique will surely get highly popular in the coming years. If you wish to discuss about any specific problem, you can consult a Dermatologist.

Twice a day, use a gentle cleanser suited to your skin type and acne conditions. Follow with a non-drying toner and lightweight hydrator even for oily skin.

Your body produces millions of skin, nail and hair cells over the course of your lifetime. Every day, the body transforms raw materials from food into keratin, a tough protein that is the basic building block of hair, skin and nails.

Genetics may determine hair color, how hair and skin ages, and the texture of each. Environmental factors such as exposure to tobacco smoke and sun, medication and drug use, and nutritional deficiencies may all be reflected in the appearance of your hair, skin and nails.

Hair is actually an accessory structure of the skin, as are your fingernails and oil and sweat glands. Skin is living tissue that forms the largest organ in the body, while hair is non-living tissue that has the second fastest tissue growth rate in the body (the fastest is bone marrow). Since skin is living tissue, proper nutrition can affect it quickly, while hair may need to go through a growth cycle before you experience the full benefit of nutritional solutions.