Knowing Melasma

Melasma is a skin discolouration condition that is characterised by irregular brown patches found usually on the face, especially on areas like cheeks, forehead, chin and nose. It can affect anyone, but more commonly women than men because nine out of ten people who suffer from it are women.

Causes of Melasma are due to genetics and changes in hormone levels, which explain why pregnant women, those on birth control pills and Hormone Replacement Therapy are associated with this condition. Other than that, brown skin people like Asians and Latin Americans are more susceptible to Melasma because their melanocytes (melanin-producing cells) are more active than those with lighter skin tone.

Sun exposure is a dominant factor in triggering this condition, where UV rays stimulate the melanocytes, inducing them to produce more melanin that leads to darkening of the skin. By protecting yourself through the use of sun screen, you are preventing damage being done to your skin.

Other than cosmetic concerns, Melasma does not cause any health problems. For treatment, visit a dermatologist for prescription creams and close monitoring of the condition.  Those who use bleaching creams, chemical peels, laser treatment may be useful but sometimes complications may arise and further aggravate the condition.

As the saying goes; Prevention is better than cure. The key to prevention is to avoid the sun and apply sunscreen when outdoors, even when there is no sun. It is not within your control if you are genetically predisposed to it but at least do what you can to minimise and reduce the appearance of Melasma.

Eczema – Causes and Remedies

Eczema is a skin condition where the top layer of skin, the epidermis is inflamed. Symptoms of eczema include dryness, itchiness, rashes, patches of flaking and scaly skin. It can affect anyone from a baby to an adult and the severity of the condition varies, depending on the type of eczema.

People have come to conclusions that eczema is hereditary as many people with eczema usually have a family history of such condition. Sometimes, Eczema is triggered by an allergy to certain substances. It could be due to food like peanuts, prawns or other things such as dust, pets and chemicals. Eczema is also caused by temperature for hot weather or body sweat is more likely to cause an eczema breakout.

No matter what, there are ways to bring the condition under control.

Firstly, having a good skin care routine will definitely help. Taking 2 to 3 showers on a hot day keep the skin clean and free of pollutants. Next, moisturise using natural products so as to minimise contact with irritants, keeping your skin soft and smooth at the same time. If your eczema condition is severe, applying steroids and antihistamines to treat the skin will alleviate the condition.

Another way is to avoid the source of allergy (if you know what cause it). If you are allergic to certain food and wanted to find the underlying cause of your condition, start keeping track of what you eat. Pay attention to the symptoms or how your skin reacts to the food. Meanwhile, try to have a balanced diet so as to ensure your skin get all the nutrients it needs. If you have been searching for healing foods to treat eczema, click here.

One of the reasons for eczema flare ups is when irritants or synthetic chemicals come into contact with the skin. Therefore, remember to always wash your newly purchased garment before you start wearing. This is to get rid of whatever dirt, dust or chemicals used on the garment during manufacturing process. If you have sensitive skin or a more severe case of eczema, wearing organic clothing is even better.

Start using environmentally friendly and natural products such as detergents and soaps so as to protect your skin from harmful chemicals. Some cosmetics and perfumes have chemicals that could trigger eczema, so be careful especially if these products contain alcohol.

Avoid the sun if possible and wear sunscreen when outdoors as the searing heat could irritate and damage the skin. Since temperature can cause flare ups, drink lots of water during hot weather.

The above mentioned are some of the many ways to treat eczema. Most important of all, be stress free and know that a cheerful and positive outlook would help to keep eczema at bay.