Atopic Dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis is a chronic (long-lasting) disease that affects the skin. The word "dermatitis" means inflammation of the skin. "Atopic" refers to diseases that are hereditary, tend to run in families, and often occur together. These diseases include asthma, hay fever, and atopic dermatitis. In atopic dermatitis, the skin becomes extremely itchy and inflamed, causing redness, swelling, cracking, weeping, crusting, and scaling.

Atopic dermatitis most often affects infants and young children, but it can continue into adulthood or first show up later in life. In most cases, there are periods of time when the disease is worse, called exacerbations or flares, which are followed by periods when the skin improves or clears up entirely, called remissions. Many children with atopic dermatitis enter into a permanent remission of the disease when they get older, although their skin often remains dry and easily irritated. Environmental factors can activate symptoms of atopic dermatitis at any time in the lives of individuals who have inherited the atopic disease trait.

How common?

Atopic dermatitis is very common. It affects males and females equally and accounts for 10 to 20 % of all referrals to dermatologists (doctors who specialize in the care and treatment of skin diseases). Atopic dermatitis occurs most often in infants and children and its onset decreases substantially with age. Scientists estimate that 65 percent of patients develop symptoms in the first year of life, and 90 percent develop symptoms before the age of 5. Onset after age 30 is less common and often occurs after exposure of the skin to harsh conditions. People who live in urban areas and in climates with low humidity seem to be at an increased risk for developing atopic dermatitis.

About 10% of all infants and young children experience symptoms of the disease. Roughly 60 percent of these infants continue to have one or more symptoms of atopic dermatitis even after they reach adulthood. This means that more than 15 million people in the United States have symptoms of the disease.

The Causes

The cause of atopic dermatitis is not known, but the disease seems to result from a combination of genetic (hereditary) and environmental factors. Evidence suggests that the disease is associated with other so-called atopic disorders such as hay fever and asthma, which many people with atopic dermatitis also have. In addition, many children who outgrow the symptoms of atopic dermatitis go on to develop hay fever or asthma. Although one disorder does not cause another, they may be related, thereby giving researchers clues to understanding atopic dermatitis.

In the past, it was thought that atopic dermatitis was caused by an emotional disorder. We now know that emotional factors such as stress can exacerbate, but do not cause the condition.

The Other Predisposition Factors

In addition to irritants and allergens, other factors, such as emotional issues, temperature and climate, and skin infections can affect atopic dermatitis. Although the disease itself is not caused by emotional factors or personality, it can be exacerbated by stress, anger, and frustration. Interpersonal problems or major life changes, such as divorce, job changes, or the death of a loved one, can also make the disease worse. Often, emotional stress seems to prompt a flare of the disease.

Bathing without proper moisturizing afterward is a common factor that triggers a flare of atopic dermatitis. The low humidity of winter or the dry year-round climate of some geographic areas can intensify the disease, as can overheated indoor areas and long or hot baths and showers. Alternately sweating and chilling can induce an attack in some people. Bacterial infections can also prompt or increase the severity of atopic dermatitis. If a patient experiences a sudden onset of illness, the doctor may check for a viral infection (such as herpes simplex) or fungal infection (such as ringworm or athlete's foot).

Is atopic dermatitis contagious?

No. Atopic dermatitis is definitely not contagious; it cannot be passed from one person to another. There is no cause for concern in being around someone with even an active case of atopic dermatitis.

The Symptoms

Symptoms vary from person to person. The most common symptoms are dry, itchy skin, cracks behind the ears, and rashes on the cheeks, arms, and legs. The itchy feeling is an important factor in atopic dermatitis, because scratching and rubbing in response to itching worsen the skin inflammation that is characteristic of this disease. People with atopic dermatitis seem to be more sensitive to itching and feel the need to scratch longer in response. They develop what is referred to as the "itch-scratch" cycle. The extreme itchiness of the skin causes the person to scratch, which in turn worsens the itch, and so on. Itching is particularly a problem during sleep, when conscious control of scratching decreases and the absence of other outside stimuli makes the itchiness more noticeable.

How atopic dermatitis affects the skin can be changed by patterns of scratching and resulting skin infections. Some people with the disease develop red, scaling skin where the immune system in the skin becomes very activated. Others develop thick and leathery skin as a result of constant scratching and rubbing. This condition is called lichenification. Still others develop papules, or small raised bumps, on their skin. When the papules are scratched, they may open (excoriations) and become crusty and infected. The box below lists common skin features of the disease. These conditions can also be found in people without atopic dermatitis or with other types of skin disorders.

Skin Features of Atopic Dermatitis

• Lichenification: thick, leathery skin resulting from constant scratching and rubbing
  
• Papules: small raised bumps that may open when scratched, becoming crusty and infected
  
• Ichthyosis: dry, rectangular scales on the skin
  
• Keratosis pilaris: small, rough bumps, generally on the face, upper arms, and thighs
  
• Hyperlinear palms: increased number of skin creases on the palms
  
• Urticaria: hives (red, raised bumps), often after exposure to an allergen, at the beginning of flares, or after exercise or a hot bath
  
• Cheilitis: inflammation of the skin on and around the lips
  
• Atopic pleat (Dennie-Morgan fold): an extra fold of skin that develops under the eye
  
• Hyperpigmented eyelids: eyelids that have become darker in color from inflammation or hay fever

 

How to treat atopic dermatitis?

Treatment involves a partnership between the doctor and the patient and his or her family members. The doctor will suggest a treatment plan based on the patient's age, symptoms, and general health. The patient and family members play a large role in the success of the treatment plan by carefully following the doctor's instructions. Some of the primary components of treatment programs are described below. Most patients can be successfully managed with proper skin care and lifestyle changes and do not require the more intensive treatments discussed.

The doctor has three main goals in treating atopic dermatitis: healing the skin and keeping it healthy; preventing flares; and treating symptoms when they do occur. Much of caring for the skin involves developing skin care routines, identifying exacerbating factors, and avoiding circumstances that stimulate the skin's immune system and the itch-scratch cycle. It is important for the patient and family members to note any changes in skin condition in response to treatment, and to be persistent in identifying the most effective treatment strategy.

Skin Care
Healing the skin and keeping it healthy are of primary importance both in preventing further damage and enhancing the patient's quality of life. Developing and following a daily skin care routine is critical to preventing recurrent episodes of symptoms. Key factors are proper bathing and the application of lubricants, such as creams or ointments, within 3 minutes of bathing. People with atopic dermatitis should avoid hot or long (more than 10 to 15 minutes) baths and showers. A lukewarm bath helps to cleanse and moisturize the skin without drying it excessively. The doctor may recommend limited use of a mild bar soap or non-soap cleanser because soaps can be drying to the skin. Bath oils are not usually helpful.

Once the bath is finished, the patient should air-dry the skin, or pat it dry gently (avoiding rubbing or brisk drying), and apply a lubricant immediately. Lubrication restores the skin's moisture, increases the rate of healing, and establishes a barrier against further drying and irritation. Several kinds of lubricants can be used. Lotions generally are not the best choice because they have a high water or alcohol content and evaporate quickly. Creams and ointments work better at healing the skin. Tar preparations can be very helpful in healing very dry, lichenified areas. Whatever preparation is chosen, it should be as free of fragrances and chemicals as possible.

Another key to protecting and restoring the skin is taking steps to avoid repeated skin infections. Although it may not be possible to avoid infections altogether, the effects of an infection may be minimized if they are identified and treated early. Patients and their families should learn to recognize the signs of skin infections, including tiny pustules (pus-filled bumps) on the arms and legs, appearance of oozing areas, or crusty yellow blisters. If symptoms of a skin infection develop, the doctor should be consulted to begin treatment as soon as possible.

Treating Atopic Dermatitis in Infants and Children

• Give brief, lukewarm baths.
  
• Apply lubricant immediately following the bath.
  
• Keep child's fingernails filed short.
  
• Select soft cotton fabrics when choosing clothing.
  
• Consider using antihistamines to reduce scratching at night.
  
• Keep the child cool; avoid situations where overheating occurs.
  
• Learn to recognize skin infections and seek treatment promptly.
  
• Attempt to distract the child with activities to keep him or her from scratching.
  

Medications and Phototherapy:
If a recurrence of atopic dermatitis occurs, several methods can be used to treat the symptoms. With proper treatment, most symptoms can be brought under control within 3 weeks. If symptoms fail to respond, this may be due to a flare that is stronger than the medication can handle, a treatment program that is not fully effective for a particular individual, or the presence of trigger factors that were not addressed in the initial treatment program. These factors can include a reaction to a medication, infection, or emotional stress. Continued symptoms may also occur because the patient is not following the treatment program instructions.

Corticosteroid creams and ointments are the most frequently used treatment. Sometimes, over-the-counter preparations are used, but in many cases, the doctor will prescribe a stronger corticosteroid cream or ointment. Occasionally, the base used in certain brands of corticosteroid creams and ointments is irritating for a particular patient and a different brand is required. Side effects of repeated or long-term use of topical corticosteroids can include thinning of the skin, infections, growth suppression (in children), and stretch marks on the skin.

Tacrolimus (Protopic) and pimecrolimus (Elidel) ointments are powerful topical medicated creams (drugs that are applied to the skin) that is used for the treatment of atopic dermatitis. These new drugs are referred to as "immune modulators." They were first used internally to help patients with kidney and liver transplants avoid rejecting the organs they received. They work by suppressing the immune system. When these drugs are used externally to treat the skin, however, they do not weaken or change the body's immune system. Also, unlike topical steroids (cortisone creams), these new medications don't cause thinning of the skin and breaking of superficial blood vessels (atrophy).

Some treatments reduce specific symptoms of the disease. Antibiotics to treat skin infections may be applied directly to the skin in an ointment, but are usually more effective when taken by mouth in pill form. Certain antihistamines that cause drowsiness can reduce nighttime scratching and allow more restful sleep when taken at bedtime. This effect can be particularly helpful for patients whose nighttime scratching aggravates the disease. If viral or fungal infections are present, the doctor may also prescribe medications to treat those infections.

Phototherapy is treatment with light that uses ultraviolet A or B light waves, or a combination of both. This treatment can be an effective treatment for mild to moderate dermatitis in older children (over 12 years old) and adults. Photochemotherapy, a combination of ultraviolet light therapy and a drug called psoralen, can also be used in cases that are resistant to phototherapy alone. Possible long-term side effects of this treatment include premature skin aging and skin cancer. If the doctor thinks that phototherapy may be useful in treating the symptoms of atopic dermatitis, he or she will use the minimum exposure necessary and monitor the skin carefully.

When other treatments are not effective, the doctor may prescribe systemic corticosteroids; drugs that are taken by mouth or injected into muscle instead of being applied directly to the skin. An example of a commonly prescribed corticosteroid is prednisone. Typically, these medications are used only in resistant cases and are only given for short periods of time. The side effects of systemic corticosteroids can include skin damage, thinned or weakened bones, high blood pressure, high blood sugar, infections, and cataracts. It can be dangerous to suddenly stop taking corticosteroids, so it is very important that the doctor and patient work together in changing the corticosteroid dose.

In adults, immunosuppressive drugs, such as cyclosporine, are also used to treat severe cases of atopic dermatitis that have failed to respond to any other forms of therapy. Immunosuppressive drugs restrain the overactive immune system by blocking the production of some immune cells and curbing the action of others. The side effects of cyclosporine can include high blood pressure, nausea, vomiting, kidney problems, headaches, tingling or numbness, and a possible increased risk of cancer and infections. There is also a risk of relapse after the drug is discontinued. Because of their toxic side effects, systemic corticosteroids and immunosuppressive drugs are used only in severe cases and then for as short a period of time as possible. Patients requiring systemic corticosteroids or immunosuppressive drugs should be referred to a dermatologist or an allergist specializing in the care of atopic dermatitis to help identify trigger factors and alternative therapies.

In rare cases, when no other treatments have been successful, the patient may have to be hospitalized. A 5 to 7 day hospital stay allows intensive skin care treatment and reduces the patient's exposure to irritants, allergens, and the stresses of day-to- day life. Under these conditions, the symptoms usually clear quickly if environmental factors play a role or if the patient is not able to carry out an adequate skin care program at home.

Tips for Working With Your Doctor

• Provide complete, accurate medical information about yourself or your child.
  
• Make a list of your questions and concerns in advance.
  
• Be honest and share your point of view with the doctor.
  
• Ask for clarification or further explanation if you need it.
  
• Talk to other members of the health care team, such as nurses, therapists, or pharmacists.
  
• Don't hesitate to discuss sensitive subjects with your doctor.
  
• Discuss changes to any medical treatment or medications with your doctor before making them.
  

Atopic Dermatitis and Quality of Life

Despite the symptoms caused by atopic dermatitis, it is possible for people with the disorder to maintain a high quality of life. The keys to an improved quality of life are education, awareness, and developing a partnership among the patient, family, and doctor. Good communication is essential for all involved. It is important that the doctor provides understandable information about the disease and its symptoms to the patient and family and demonstrate any treatment measures recommended to ensure that they will be properly carried out.

When a child has atopic dermatitis, the entire family situation may be affected. It is important that families have additional support to help them cope with the stress and frustration associated with the disease. The child may be fussy and difficult, and often is unable to keep from scratching and rubbing the skin. Distracting the child and providing as many activities that keep the hands busy is key, but requires much effort and work on the part of the parents or caregivers. Another issue families face is the social and emotional stress associated with disfigurement caused by atopic dermatitis. The child may face difficulty in school or other social relationships and may need additional support and encouragement from family members.

Adults with atopic dermatitis can enhance their quality of life by caring regularly for their skin and being mindful of other effects of the disease and how to treat them. Adults should develop a skin care regimen as part of their daily routine, which can be adapted as circumstances and skin conditions change. Stress management and relaxation techniques may help decrease the likelihood of flares due to emotional stress. Developing a network of support that includes family, friends, health professionals, and support groups or organizations can be beneficial. Chronic anxiety and depression may be relieved by short-term psychological therapy.

Recognizing the situations when scratching is most likely to occur may also help. For example, many patients find that they scratch more when they are idle. Structured activity that keeps their hands occupied may prevent further damage to the skin. Occupational counseling also may be helpful to identify or change career goals if a job involves contact with irritants or involves frequent hand washing, such as kitchen work or auto mechanics.

Controlling Atopic Dermatitis

• Prevent scratching or rubbing whenever possible.
  
• Protect skin from excessive moisture, irritants, and rough clothing.
  
• Maintain a cool, stable temperature and consistent humidity levels.
  
• Limit exposure to dust, cigarette smoke, pollens, and animal dander.
  
• Recognize and limit emotional stress.
  

Atopic Dermatitis At A Glance

• Atopic dermatitis is the most common and significant type of eczema.
  
• The skin sensitivity of this disease is inherited.
  
• The patient's skin is "super sensitive" to many irritants.
  
• Dry scaly patches develop in a characteristic distribution.
  
• Itching is intense and scratching hard to resist.
  
• Scratching can cause skin thickening and darkening and lead to bacterial infection.
  
• Extremely dry skin can break down and ooze or weep.
  
• If the itch can be controlled, the rash (which is aggravated by vigorous scratching) can be contained.
  
• ;Treatment of atopic dermatitis is centered around rehydrating the skin with moisturizers and cautious use of topical steroids to reduce inflammation and itching.
  
• Oral antihistamines are often necessary to break the "itch-scratch" cycle.
  
• Since secondary infections can aggravate the rash, topical or oral antibiotics may also be occasionally indicated.
  

Allergic Skin disorders

Our skin is a good barometer of how healthy the body is. A frequent recurrent infection of the skin may indicate that the immunity system is weak. Skin has its own interference with lifestyle in colour and texture. Our skin controls and regulates the water content of the body. It protects body as a covering and works as defence force against infection. It is helpful in activating vitamin D when it is exposed to sunlight. If skin is damaged water content will be lost. Infection will spread resulting in renal shut down and collapse.

When skin or body is confronted with any other foreign substance, our immune system counteracts to withstand any ill effects from that substance. Antigen-antibody reaction will develop to inhibit all the ill effects. If this is excessive and it creates disease like condition then it is called Allergy. So the heightened reaction of the body to external agent is called Allergy. Antigens developed from this reaction attach to blood cells and form mast cells. When this gets contact with allergen, it secretes histamine which is primary chemical conductor and responsible for allergic reactions. When the body has been exposed to the elements known as allergen, which has been previously exposed, allergies form on the body.

Allergies are different types as allergic rhinitis, sinusitis, asthma and allergic skin disorder. All allergies are serious and very uncomfortable. Allergies can be due to any foreign material –natural or artificial.

If any foreign substance enters into the nose, we sneeze. If this occurs continuously as allergy then it is called as allergic Rhinitis. Likewise, if there is any irritation in the skin, body reacts as red itchy swelling initially, which in due course with subsequent exposure leads to allergic skin disorder.

Skin allergy usually subsides by it self, and denotes about the bodies sensitivity. If this is excess it becomes allergic skin disorder.

Skin allergies or Allergic Skin Disorders are a serious and uncomfortable type. Any red, bumpy, scaly itchy, swollen skin can signify an allergic skin condition. This is the result of immune reaction against an irritant. From an overall healthcare the problem of allergy scare is dismissed as minor annoyances without due consideration for diagnosis and treatment. The majority sufferers are females leading to dismissal more readily than if the symptoms were experienced by men. Allergy in some form occurs in all individuals.

SYMPTOMS OF SKIN ALLERGIES

Allergic skin condition can take several forms and are due to various causes. They are:

Urticaria (Hives)

Urticaria is a smooth flat red eruption with white center called Hives. It appears, disappears or reappears suddenly, without leaving any trace. It causes itching, burning and a stinging sensation anywhere in the body. Acuteness may be caused due to scratching, pressure, aggravation on the nerves, exercises or physical exertion, direct exposure to sunlight or cold , metal, pollens, plants, chemicals, oils cream, food as crab, oyster, prawn, tomato, lime and drugs like aspirin, anti inflammatory drugs, BP medicines and pain killers. Hives are a result of histamine acting on the upper layers of skin. Histamine is primary chemical mediator caused due to antigen-antibody reaction.

The urticaria may be as:

• Heat urticaria - allergy caused due to heat
  
• Papular urticaria - allergy caused due to encounter of flies or mites
  
• Solar urticaria - a rare form of hive due to exposure to UV radiation
  
• Cold urticaria - allergy caused due to cold
  
• Pressure urticaria - allergy caused due to tight dresses or any tight situation.
• Angioedema - the rapid swelling (edema) of the skin, mucosa and submucosal tissues.It is a swelling resulting from histamine action on deeper layers of skin and it may or may not occur with hives. It is not red or itchy and mostly affects or occurs in soft tissues such as eye-lids, mouth or genitals. Apart from the common form, mediated by allergy, it has been reported as a side effect of some medications, specifically ACE inhibitors.

  
Dermographism - Physical urticaria                           Angioedema




Urticaria

Allergic Contact Dermatitis

When skin comes in contact with an allergic substance as plants, metals, dyes, rubber products, cosmetics and medications, a reaction starts after 1 to 3 days leading to red, itchy, inflamed skin known as Allergic Contact Dermatitis. It is more painful than itchy when the agent in contact with skin is more concentrated. Cold soaks and compresses can offer a relief. All age groups can be affected by contact dermatitis and potential triggers may be found just about anywhere. The hands and feet are the most common areas for contact dermatitis to occur. Usually, these symptoms will occur only in the areas that actually came into contact with the irritant or allergen.

Sun Rash

Some people have sensitive skin to the sun in spring and summer. For them, exposure to sunlight results in a rash which may recur throughout summer. These are small reddish blisters in areas exposed to sunlight. They are extremely itchy. There is relief only during winter. For young ones it is very recurrent since skin is very weak and it disappears as they get older.

Atopic Dermatatis (Eczema)

Atopic Dermatatis is allergic eczematous condition affecting mostly face, elbows and knees. Itching leads to scales and flakes. In intense cases, oozing will occur if a bacteria or viral infection is introduced by scratching. Common causes are allergens, sweating, overheating, and emotional stress and strain, and diet, irritants in the wool, pets, soaps, and other agents. This is most common in children and individuals with asthma and allergic rhinitis.

  

DIAGNOSIS OF SKIN ALLERGY

A correct diagnosis along with proper therapy instituted early in the course of the disease will minimise frustration. The diagnosis of skin allergy can be made through:

Intestinal irritation-due to foods like crab, oyster, tomato and lime. Food allergies are usually more difficult to determine. Hives can arise 12-24 hours after consuming the food or food additive making it hard to recall what was eaten earlier.
External irritation-due to use of oil and creams, Emotion, Climate changes
Menstrual trouble, Suppressed sweat, Medications.

PREVENTIVE MEASURES FOR SKIN ALLERGY

About half the number of patients with chronic hives will have at least one more episode of hives in their lifetime. The primary treatment for eczema is that the patient should stop scratching and rubbing the rash. If any food is identified allergic it should be eliminated from diet. Use sunscreens for sun protection for photosensitive skin.

TREATMENT

Treatment also includes avoidance of stimulus, desensitization and stress reduction.

In allopathy, usually anti-histamines, nerve inhibitors are used to control allergy. It is temporary and works for only 12- 36 hours. This can be noticed in patients who are in continuous exposure to allergen -- for example-occupational diseases. If patient takes drugs on long term, side effects will also add to problems.

HOMEOPATHIC APPROACH FOR SKIN ALLERGY

The objective of taking treatment is to provide comfort. Homoeopathy provides it without any side-effects. The homoeopathic approach is a natural way to help the body by supporting the body’s own process of healing. It involves the use of extremely diluted substances to heal the body through the release of vital energy. The rule in homeopathy is that “like treats like”. Homoeopath mostly selects the drugs with the aggravating factors like Taking allergic diet, During full moon Intake of liquor, During menses period, During menopause, On undressing, In open air, At night, especially after 12 p.m.

Also homoeo medicines will not shut allergy like switching off, but it desensitises the body to the allergen by improving immunity. Thus it helps patient to live in their circumstances.

The medicines mostly used are – Apis mel, Sulphur, Ledum, Pulsatilla, Sepia, Croton tig, Arg Nit, Nat mur, Ignatia, Urtica urens, Hepa sulf, Dulcamara, Rhus tox, Graphites, Petroleum, Acid sulp, Acid nit, Capsicum, Ars alb, Causticum. These medicines should be taken under the advice and diagnosis of a Homoeopath.

Three Quick Steps to Healthier Skin

If you do only three things to improve the look and feel of your skin, make them these three, agree several of our experts:

1. Drink at least eight 8-ounce glasses of water a day to stay hydrated. This helps flush toxins through your kidneys instead of your skin.
2. Follow a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and fish. When researchers from Monash University in Australia studied the diets of 453 people ages 70 and older from Australia, Greece, and Sweden to see if there was any correlation between what they ate and the number of wrinkles in their skin, they found those who ate the most fruits, vegetables, and fish had the fewest wrinkles. Conversely, the researchers found, foods high in saturated fat, including meat, butter, and full-fat dairy, as well as soft drinks, cakes, pastries, and potatoes, increased the likelihood of skin wrinkling.
   
3. Protect your skin from the sun all year round with a sunblock with an SPF of 30 or greater. Just because there's snow on the ground doesn't mean your skin can't be damaged by the sun. Time outdoors is time well spent, but be sure to keep your skin either well covered or well protected with sunblock. In particular, the sun is at its most damaging between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.

The top five nutrients for healthy skin

The skin is one of the most powerful indicators of health. Wrinkles, dry or oily skin, acne, and inflammation all are signs of poor internal health, often brought on by consuming unhealthful foods and avoiding skin-healthy nutrients. To treat skin problems, most people turn to mainstream topical cosmetics, including lotions, soaps, scrubs, toners, and creams. However, treating outer blemishes with expensive, chemical-laden beauty products does little to address the root cause of the problem: poor nutrition and exposure to toxins in dietary and personal care products.

"Your skin is the fingerprint of what is going on inside your body, and all skin conditions, from psoriasis to acne to aging, are the manifestations of your body's internal needs, including its nutritional needs," says Dr. Georgiana Donadio, founder of the National Institute of Whole Health.

Recent research has shown that the skin reacts particularly well to certain vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that nourish the skin, making it appear youthful and healthy. The following nutrients are among the very best to consume for healthy, young-looking skin:

Silica
Silica is a trace mineral that strengthens the body's connective tissues - muscles, tendons, hair, ligaments, nails, cartilage, and bone - and is vital for healthy skin. Silica deficiency can result in reduced skin elasticity and can hamper the body's ability to heal wounds. Food sources of silica include leeks, green beans, garbanzo beans, strawberries, cucumber, mango, celery, asparagus and rhubarb. In its natural form, silica is found in the horsetail herb. Silica is also available as a concentrated liquid supplement from Eidon Ionic Minerals (www.eidon.com)

Zinc
The mineral zinc is an important component of healthy skin, especially for acne sufferers. In fact, acne itself may be a symptom of zinc deficiency. Zinc acts by controlling the production of oil in the skin, and may also help control some of the hormones that create acne. Zinc is also required for proper immune system function, as well as for the maintenance of vision, taste, and smell. Zinc consumption is also strongly linked to a reduction of prostate cancer.

Foods rich in zinc include fresh oysters, pumpkin seeds, ginger, pecans, Brazil nuts, oats, and eggs. Zinc can be purchased in supplement form, in both liquid concentrates and tablets.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Dry, inflamed skin or skin that suffers from the frequent appearance of whiteheads or blackheads can benefit from supplementing with essential fatty acids (EFAs), especially omega-3s. EFAs are responsible for skin repair, moisture content, and overall flexibility, but because the body cannot produce its own EFAs, they must be obtained through the diet.

The typical American diet is overabundant in omega-6 fatty acids found in baked goods and grains, and lacking in omega-3s, found in cold-water fish such as salmon and mackerel, as well as flaxseeds and safflower oil. Simply balancing the intake of omega-3s with omega-6s can result in smoother, younger-looking skin. EFAs are also available in supplement form - such as fish oil capsules or evening primrose oil - and are effective at treating a wide range of disorders, from depression and cancer to arthritis and heart disease. Good sources of omega-3 oils include chia seeds, flax seeds and, for non-vegetarians, wild-harvested fish oils. A reputable supplier of fish oils is Nordic Naturals (www.NordicNaturals.com)

Selenium
Selenium is an antioxidant mineral responsible for tissue elasticity. It also acts to prevent cell damage by free radicals and is will known to be correlated with a reduction of breast cancer risk. It may play an important role in preventing skin cancer, as it can protect the skin from damage from excessive ultraviolet light.

Dietary sources of selenium include wheat germ, seafood such as tuna and salmon, garlic, Brazil nuts, eggs, brown rice, and whole-wheat bread. Brazil nuts are perhaps the best source, and eating just 3-4 Brazil nuts per day provides adequate selenium intake for most people. A good source of raw brazil nuts is www.RawFood.com

Vitamins C, E and A
Vitamin C is highly effective at reducing free radical damage, such as that caused by overexposure to the sun or pollution. Free radicals consume collagen and elastin - the fibers that support skin structure - and can cause wrinkles and other signs of premature aging. Vitamin C is especially effective at protecting the skin from overexposure to the sun when combined with vitamin E. Foods high in vitamin C include acerola (a cherry-like fruit), red and green bell peppers, guava, kale, parsley, collard greens, turnips, and broccoli.

Wherever possible, consumers are advised to get their vitamin C from a whole food source, and not to confuse synthetic vitamin C (ascorbic acid) with the real thing from plants (which is full spectrum vitamin C that goes way beyond ascorbic acid). A good source of whole food vitamins is Botani (http://www.alohabay.com/botani/index.html)

In terms of topical applications of vitamin C for your skin, there's nothing on the market that even comes close to a product called Camu C Serum manufactured by the Amazon Herb Company ((http://amazondreams.amazonherb.net/Lluv...), which is made from Camu Camu berries -- the highest natural source of full-spectrum vitamin C.

Vitamin E is another powerful antioxidant that reduces the effects of sun exposure on the skin. When combined with vitamin A, vitamin E is especially effective at preventing certain skin cancers. Vitamin E also reduces the appearance of wrinkles, and, when applied topically, soothes dry or rough skin. Food sources of vitamin E include wheat germ oil, sunflower seeds, safflower and sunflower oils, almonds, spinach, peaches, prunes, tomatoes, cabbage, asparagus, and avocados.

Avoid synthetic vitamin E supplements, as they have been shown to actually harm health. Only consume natural vitamin E from a reputable source such as the Life Extension Foundation (www.LEF.org)

Vitamin A promotes proper repair and maintenance of the skin, and deficiencies can result in a dry, flaky complexion. Topical vitamin A treatments are often used to treat acne and other skin ailments. Foods high in vitamin A include liver, chili peppers, dandelion, carrots, apricots, collard greens, kale, sweet potatoes, spinach, and cantaloupe.

It's best to consume vitamin A from natural food sources rather than supplementing it, as vitamin A can be harmful if taken in excessive amounts in supplement form (vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin). You may also wish to consider taking beta carotene, which is a precursor to vitamin A and has none of the overdose concerns of vitamin A.

Avoid toxic skin care products
Proper nutrition is vital for the maintenance of youthful, smooth, healthy skin. Though lotions, washes, and creams can sometimes help treat certain skin ailments, most skin problems stem from an internal nutritional deficiency easily remedied by altering the diet to include specific nutrients. Before you spend a fortune on expensive skin care products, try addressing the problem from the inside out.

Also, beware of the toxic chemicals used in nearly all popular skin care products, including many of the expensive brands sold in department stores. Most products contain liver-damaging and cancer-causing petroleum derivatives that pass right through the skin and enter your bloodstream, causing DNA damage that ultimately compromises the health of your entire body. Use skin care products that are truly natural and contain absolutely no parabens, petroleum products or any ingredient you cannot pronounce.

The5tar of Beauty: Skin care: Top 5 habits for healthy skin

The5tar of Beauty: Skin care: Top 5 habits for healthy skin

Skin care: Top 5 habits for healthy skin

Proactive skin care, from skin protection to proper shaving technique, will help you keep your skin youthful and healthy.

Your busy lifestyle leaves little time for pampering skin care. The result: Your skin isn't the baby-soft body glove you were born with. As you age, your skin gradually becomes thinner and finely wrinkled. Oil-producing (sebaceous) glands grow less active, leaving your skin drier. The number of blood vessels in your skin decreases, your skin becomes more fragile, and you lose your youthful color and glow.

Good skin care — such as avoiding the sun, washing your skin gently and applying moisturizer regularly — can help delay the natural aging process and prevent many skin problems. These simple skin-care habits will help you protect your skin to keep it healthy and glowing for years to come.

1. Protect yourself from the sun

The most important way to take care of your skin is to protect it from the sun. Ultraviolet light — the invisible but intense rays from the sun — damages your skin, causing deep wrinkles, dry, rough skin, liver spots, and more serious disorders, such as noncancerous (benign) and cancerous (malignant) skin tumors. In fact, most of the changes seen in aging skin are actually caused by a lifetime of sun exposure.

For the most complete sun protection, use all three of these methods:

• Avoid the sun during high-intensity hours. The sun's rays are most damaging from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Reduce the time you spend outdoors during these hours.

• Wear protective clothing. Cover your skin with clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts, long pants and wide-brimmed hats. Also, keep in mind that certain clothing styles and fabrics offer better protection from the sun than do others. For example, long-sleeved shirts offer better protection than short-sleeved shirts do. And tightly woven fabrics such as denim are better than are loosely woven fabrics such as knits. Several companies now make sun protective clothing (SPF clothing), which is specifically designed to block out ultraviolet rays while keeping you cool and comfortable.
  

• Use sunscreen. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) greater than 15. Apply liberally 20 minutes before going outdoors and reapply every two hours, after heavy sweating or after being in water.
  

2. Don't smoke

Smoking accelerates aging of your skin and increases wrinkles. Skin changes from smoking can appear in young adults after 10 years of smoking.

Smoking causes narrowing of the tiny blood vessels in the outermost layers of skin. This decreases blood flow, depleting the skin of oxygen and nutrients, such as vitamin A, that are important to skin health. All of these factors increase damage to the elastic fibers (elastin) and collagen, which give your skin strength and elasticity.

In addition, the repetitive facial expressions you make when smoking — such as pursing your lips when inhaling and squinting your eyes to keep out smoke — may contribute to wrinkles. It's also possible that repeated exposure to the heat from burning cigarettes may damage your facial skin over time.

3. Wash your skin gently

Cleansing is an essential part of caring for your skin. The key is to treat your skin gently.

• Use warm water and limit bath time. Hot water and long showers or baths remove oils from your skin. Limit your bath or shower time to about 15 minutes or less, and use warm, rather than hot, water.
  

• Avoid strong soaps. Strong soaps — those most capable of stripping oil from your skin — can leave your skin dry. Instead, choose mild soaps or detergent substitutes with added oils and fats. Good choices include Dove, Vanicream, Cetaphil and Purpose.
  

• Avoid irritating additives. If your skin is sensitive, avoid products containing perfumes or dyes. These can irritate your skin and may trigger an allergic response.
  

• Remove eye makeup carefully. Use a soft sponge, cotton cloth or cotton balls when removing eye makeup to avoid damaging the delicate tissue around your eyes. If you wear heavy, waterproof makeup, you may need to use an oil-based product, such as Eucerin, Aquaphor or petroleum jelly, to remove makeup.
  

• Pat dry. After washing or bathing, gently pat or blot your skin dry with a towel so that some moisture remains on the skin. Immediately moisturize your skin with an oil or cream.
  

4. Moisturize regularly

Moisturizers help maintain your skin's natural moisture levels. They work by providing a seal over your skin — to keep water from escaping — or by slowly releasing water into your skin.

The moisturizer that's best for you and the frequency with which you need to moisturize depend on many factors, including your skin type, your age and whether you have specific conditions such as acne. A good way to test if you need a moisturizer is to wait 20 minutes after bathing. If your skin feels tight, you should apply a moisturizer.

Select a moisturizer with an SPF of at least 15 to help protect your skin from damaging ultraviolet rays. If you have sensitive skin, look for products free of heavy dyes, perfumes or other additives. If your skin is very dry, you may want to apply an oil, such as baby oil, while your skin is still moist. Oil has more staying power than moisturizers do and prevents the evaporation of water from the surface of your skin. If your skin is oily, you may want to skip moisturizing.

5. Shave carefully

Shaving is a common and inexpensive way to remove unwanted hair. But shaving can cause skin irritations, especially if your skin is thin, dry or very sensitive. For a smooth shave:

• Press a warm wash cloth on your skin before shaving to soften the hair. Or shave after a warm bath or shower.
  

• Don't shave dry skin, which can cause razor burn. Apply shaving cream, lotion or gel before shaving to protect and lubricate your skin.
  

• Use a clean, sharp razor. If using an electric razor, don't use the closest setting, which can aggravate the skin.
  

• Shave in the direction of hair growth, not against it.
  

• Rinse your skin afterward with warm water.
  

If irritation does occur, apply a lotion that doesn't contain ethyl or isopropyl alcohol. Though alcohol and alcohol-based products may feel cooling, they don't really soothe irritated skin because the alcohol evaporates rapidly from the skin.