It is believed that the sea water used in thalassotherapy is similar in electrolyte concentration to that of the blood plasma in the body. Apparently this allows for greater absorption of essential trace elements; like magnesium, potassium, calcium and other mineral salts, directly into the skin. The reaction of thalassotherapy on the skin results in the skin pore expanding allowing oligo-elements to filter into the deeper layers of the skin. While many in the beauty industry swear by thalassotherapy, the scientific community is cautious about this treatment due to the numerous, and at times outrageous, claims.

Different Types of Thalassotherapy

Thalassotherapy is available in various forms of application. These include :

• body massage incorporating seaweed oils
• baths combining seawater and seaweed
• seaweed wraps
• mud baths using seawater

The popular choice in thalassotherapy is the seaweed wrap.

Seaweed Wrap Treatment

The seaweed wrap treatment involves the combination of seaweed, therapuetic herbs and a cloth-like material that is soaked and tightly wrapped around the body. A thermal blanket is placed over the body for approximately an hour. After this time the blanket and the seaweed wrap is removed. The residue of the seaweed products, oils and herbs are gently massaged into the skin. This increases blood circulation and apparently detoxifies the body removing accumulated toxin build up. The seaweed body wrap helps to disperse local fatty tissue deposits, leaving the skin nourished and healthy looking. The skin also absorbs minerals that are essential for the restoration of its tone and vitality.

Benefits of Thalassotherapy

The beauty and cosmetic industry claims that the following health benefits can be derived from thalassotherapy. While the medical fraternity will scoff at some of these outrageous claims, thalassotherapy is still widely practiced globally with hundreds of thousands of men and women vouching for its benefits.

• The healing properties of salt water a administered in thalassotherapy helps in the management of high blood pressure, asthma and muscle atrophy.
• This treatment is the natural defense against aging as it combats the physical signs of aging by reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
• The therapeutic effect of water on the skin induces relaxation. This helps to reduce stress and improve sleep patterns.
• There is a decreased appearance of cellulite as blood circulation is improved resulting in the prevention of toxin accumulation.
• Due to the increase in blood circulation the cardiovascular function is improved.
• Seaweed wrap is widely used for weight loss as it allegedly increases the body’s metabolism rate. The treatment also firms the skin.
• Skin cleansing and detoxification usually occurs as accumulated toxins are removed through the pores.
• Nutrition supplementation for the skin and body as a poor diet, sedentary lifestyle and stress depletes the body of vital minerals and elements even in well fed individuals.
• The additional nutrients and relaxing effect of thalassotherapy boosts the immune system.
• The high electrolyte concentration within sea water assists in reducing muscle cramps, surface inflammation and aches and pains.

Many of these benefits have not been verified by clinical studies by the beauty industry continues to advocate the health and beauty benefits of thalassotherapy. However, you should consult with your medical doctor before undertaking any alternative, even if cosmetic, treatment and if you have chronic conditions.

A dehydrated skin lacks water content in the intercelluar structure of the skin, the fluid between cells. This skin type often appears dry and dull with a rough, crepe like texture. Dehydration can affect all skin types in any age group although it is most commonly seen in dry skin types. If the moisture content is not replenished in the epidermis (upper skin layer) and dermis (middle layer of the skin), dehydration occurs. Dehydrated skin is dependent on the epidermis and dermis as the smallest change in the skin’s water content can cause the skin to become dry and cracked. This can often cause thinning of the skin which can eventually lead to the loss in the skin’s elasticity and radiance. The skin can become taut and itchy with the development of fine lines and wrinkles appearing around the eye and cheek areas.

Causes of Skin Dehydration

Depletion of body fluids often reduces the water content in the skin cells. This can usually result from excessive dieting, a severe illness, aging, glandular disturbances, drugs or the decreased activity of the sweat and sebaceous glands (oil gland) due to the aging process. As one ages, the skin naturally dries out due to evaporation through the outer layers. Aging can often reduce the storage of water held in the ground substance of the dermis thereby resulting in a dehydrated skin. Dehydration can also be caused by other external and internal factors such as:

• Excessive sun exposure
• Climate, like a humid environment and even air conditioning
• Use of perfumed or antimicrobial  soaps
• Natural tendency towards dry skin due to the skin’s water-holding capacity
• Oiliness or lack of oil
• Air or water pollution
• Severe, debilitating illness
• Certain chronic medication
• Excessive use of diuretics including caffeinated drinks and alcohol
• Smoking
• Long or excessive bathing, especially with the use of very hot water

Treatment for Dehydrated Skin

• The stimulation of blood circulation and increase in glandular activity in the dermis will aid in improving the levels of moisture. This type of stimulation includes deep and superficial massages that also increases the production of oils in the skin aiding in skin lubrication.
• Products containing an oil or cream base can improve the water balance of the skin and further increase the secretion of oils. These products include hydrating and moisturising masks with essential oils that help reduce dehydration. More oily applications also coats the skin’s surface and prevents natural water loss.
• Facial skin therapy used in conjunction with an oil mask increases the lymph flow and glandular activity. Avoid excessive or prolonged facial steaming as this can ultimately cause dehydration of the skin.
• Avoid the use of harsh soaps (perfumed or antibacterial)  as they tend to strip the skin of its natural oils leading to a further dryness of the skin
• A creamy facial cleanser will cleanse the skin leaving whilst leaving behind a thin layer of film to prevent loss of moisture
• Exfoliating the skin twice a week is sufficient to remove surface dirt without removing excess oils from the skin
• Eye gel or cream helps to nourish the delicate skin around the eye area minimizing the visibility of wrinkles will also assist with skin hydration.
• Daily moisturizing is important as the moisturizer acts as a protective barrier preventing the loss of moisture from the skin.
• A rich night cream applied daily before bed time prevents and treats the occurence of white patches of dry skin.
• Facial masks such as avocado and hot oil masks helps to hydrate and nourish the skin and reduce water loss.
• Increased intake of fluids will replenish the water lost as sweat through the skin.
• Avoid the intake of caffeinated drinks, alcohol and smoking.

Picture of Severe Spider Veins & Varicose Veins

Telangiectasia is a condition commonly referred to as spider veins, where thin dilated blood vessels connected to larger blood vessels are visible at the skin’s surface. These veins appear in clusters of bluish-purple or red zones and are often shaped in a ’spider’s web’, hence the name spider veins. Although this condition can affect a small percentage of males it is mostly common in females. Unlike varicose veins, spider veins do not bulge or extend above the surface of the skin.

Causes of Spider Veins

The common causes responsible for the onset or aggravation of spider veins (telangiectasia) are :

• An insufficiency in the circulation of the venous system causes the vein valves to weaken resulting in pooling of blood (congestion). This eventually leads to the development of spider veins.
• Genetic factors play a role in the weak development of the vein wall resulting in the formation of spider veins. These veins can cause an increase the blood pressure of the surrounding superficial veins.
• Excessive exposure to the sun can trigger the development of spider veins especially in lighter skinned individuals.
• Hormonally induced conditions or medication that cause hormonal fluctuations such as pregnancy or menopause can cause the vein wall to ’soften’ increasing the incidence of spider veins. The blood volume also rises during pregnancy which increases the blood pressure in the venous system. This may result in the development of spider veins.
• Conditions such as obesity with an excessive amount of body fat and less connective tissue support around the veins may lead to spider veins.
• Individuals, in jobs that require extended periods of standing or sitting without regular intervals of leg movement, are more susceptible to spider veins
• Aggravating factors such as aggressive skin treatments or an increased intake of alcohol may be at risk of developing spider veins

Management of Spider Veins

• Certain cosmetics, like foundation, can be used to camouflage the appearance of spider veins
• Regular physical activity aids, in cases of hypertension (high blood pressure), obesity and poor circulation, may assist with reducing the extent of spider vein proliferation.
• The use of flat shoes and support hose can reduce or decrease the occurrence of spider veins in person’s with venous insufficiency of the leg or varicose veins.
• Avoid excessive consumption of alcohol
• In occupations that require extended periods of sitting or standing, it is advisable to exercise the legs with short episodes of walking.
• Decreased sun exposure, especially in persons with sun sensitivity of skin, and the use of sunscreens help in the management of spider veins.

Treatment of Spider Veins

There are two types of treatments that are commonly used in treating spider veins. These treatments include the invasive yet effective sclerotherapy, and non-invasive laser treatment.

Sclerotherapy

Sclerotherapy is a highly effective invasive treatment requiring several sessions. An irritant solution such as concentrated saline or a specialized detergent solution is injected directly into the spider veins causing pain that last for a few minutes. The solution damages the wall of the vein resulting in swelling and constriction of the blood supply. The spider vein becomes a scar tissue and disappears over a period of days to weeks. The side effects of sclerotherapy include skin sores, bruising and discoloration around the treated skin.

Laser treatment

Laser treatment is a non-invasive procedure that uses an intense pulsed light to heat the surface of the skin. The laser is focused on individual vessels causing the wall of the spider veins to ’seal’ (cauterization) minimizing the damage to the surrounding tissue. Since the veins appear red, pink and sometimes bluish-purple they tend to absorb more of the laser than the surrounding normal skin. When the light of the laser is absorbed the spider veins shrink without damaging the normal skin. The side effects of laser treatment includes redness, swelling, and discoloration of the skin. These effects usually subside after a few weeks.

Dermabrasion is an effective procedure done under local anaesthetic for the treatment of skin imperfections. A high speed brush with a spinning disc is used to remove the outer surface layer of skin (epidermis) to allow for regrowth of new skin tissue. The uneven, old scar tissue is replaced to alter the contour of the scar. The deep exfoliating effects of dermabrasion treatments can often remove deep wrinkles around the chin and mouth area, some scars and surface pigmentation.

How are acne marks and other scars formed?

Acne scars occur as a result of the body’s inflammatory response to the skin oils (sebum), bacteria and dead skin cells which form blockages in the pores of the skin. These blockages result in a plug like formation and begin to develop in the follicle of the skins pore. This causes local inflammation and the body releases white blood cells to fight of infections and repair damaged skin tissue. Fibrous scar tissue, eroded skin tissue or an increased amount of skin tissue may result (keloid scar).

The extent of scarring differs between each individual as it is dependent on the different skin types (oily or dry) and the condition (chicken pox, acne) resulting in the formation of the scars. There are two types of scar formation :

Depressed scars such as ‘ice pick scarring’ usually occurs due to a lack of skin tissue formation. The scars are usually firm and appear with irregular edges. A depressed scar can improve when the skin is stretched such as periods of growth spurts or weight gain. Depressed scars are also known as ‘crater scars’ or ‘pock marks’.

Raised scars which are also known as keloid or hypertrophic scars occur with an increase in tissue formation. An excessive build-up of cell substance called collagen forms a raised scar. The scar appears smooth with an irregular shaped border resulting in the abnormal growth of scar tissue.

What are the benefits of dermabrasion treatments?

Dermabrasion is often use in the treatment of acne scaring, removal of tattoos, pigmentation, birth marks, liver spots, keloid and chicken pox scaring, freckles and sun damaged skin. The appearance of the skin is improved with long lasting effects of the treatment. Dermabrasion resurfaces the skin and removes severe imperfections. The principle behind dermabrasion involves causing inflammation to the skin and allowing it to heal, hopefully removing pre-existing imperfections. Medicated creams or vitamin-rich ointments, usually high in vitamin A, may be applied to allow the skin to heal more effectively.

What are the side effects of dermabrasion?

Dermabrasion is not suitable for all types of scars, like ice pick scars, as the scar can become more noticeable if it appears wider after treatment. The abrasive technique of dermabrasion may aggravate pigmentation or melasma. After the treatment of dermabrasion the skin usually appears raw and irritated which leaves the area treated more susceptible to pressure and light or sun sensitivity. Infections can occur after the dermabrasion treatment which can result in further scarring and leave the skin looking worse that it initially appeared. Individuals that suffer with conditions such as rashes due to allergic reactions may have adverse effects to the dermabrasion treatments.

What are the benefits of steaming the face?

• Facial steaming induces perspiration, which removes accumulated wastes and toxins in the skin.
• Blood circulation is improved as the warm effect of the steam dilates the microvessels (capillaries) of the skin, nourishing the outer layers (epidermis).
• Steaming deep cleanses the skin of surface dirt, cosmetics and dead skin cells thereby unblocking the pores.
• Blackheads are dislodged from the pores as the dead skin cells and sebum becomes soften with the steam. This allows for the efficient removal of blackheads from the skin without the possibility of scarring.
• The use of the steam helps in the conservative management of acne as it ‘de-greases’ the oily build-up leaving the skin pores open, rejuvenated and cleansed.

What are the methods of facial steaming?

There 3 methods of steaming the face which include :

1. Steaming the face professionally with the use of salon equipment, known as a steamer or vaporiser, at a skincare clinic.
2. Facial steaming at home. This method uses boiling water in a bowl with the face placed about 12 inches away from the bowl. A towel is placed over the head to form a confined environment, preventing the steam from escaping. This method is equally effective as the professional procedure.
3. The hot compress method makes use of a towel, which is soaked in hot water, and then tightly squeezed to remove excess water (wringing). The warm towel is placed onto the face to help soften the skin.

Essential oils and herbs may be added to the water for various reasons but the beneficial effects of these agents have not been thoroughly researched and verified.

How frequently should you steam your face?

The frequency of a steaming treatment is dependent on the individual’s skin type. An oily skin should be steamed at least once to twice a week whilst a combination or balanced (normal) skin types will benefit with a facial steaming treatment done every 2 weeks. Individuals with a very dry skin type should restrict facial steaming to just once a month, as the steam removes the skins natural oils leaving the skin drier. To counteract these effects, an oily moisturizer should be applied to nourish the dry skin, after the facial steaming.

What are the side effects of facial steaming?

• The steam temperature used in the facial treatments should beat an appropriate to prevent burns occurring on the skin.
• Although steaming removes excess oil and grit blocking the pores, it may also causes the skin to break out in eruptions.
• Skin that is highly vascular, hypersensitive, inflamed or irritated from pre-existing skin conditions or the side effects of cosmetic preparations should not be exposed to facial steaming as this may aggravate the condition.

Factors to consider when analyzing the skin

Skin Moisture Level

The level of moisture in the skin (skin hydration) is maintained by the volume of water present in the body in general. Skin cannot be rehydrated if the person is dehydrated. Moisture is lost through the skin as sweat which is secreted through the pores of the skin in the superficial layer of the skin (epidermis). The lost water is replenished by the dermis (deeper layer of the skin) which is nourished by tissue fluid and blood. With age, the level of moisture retained in the dermis decreases and is therefore unable to effectively replace the loss of moisture in the epidermis. Excessive dieting, over exposure to the sun and the effects of wind on the skin can lead to the loss of moisture which affects the water-electrolyte balance of the skin.

Temperature of the Skin

An epidermis [upper layer of skin] that has a dilation of surface capillaries(micro-vessels) with a pink appearance and is easily stimulated indicates a high skin temperature. A skin with a lower skin temperature has a compact epidermis with a creamy skin appearance. The temperature of the skin may change temporarily due to emotional disturbances such as nervousness and embarrassment, known as flushing of the skin or ‘blushing’. The importance of the normal skin temperature is crucial in determining the skin’s condition for treatments of the body. This allows the skin to respond appropriately to the treatments preventing aggravation of the skin. Increase in temperature after the application of certain skin products may indicate inflammation.

Texture of the Skin

The texture of the skin aids in determining the skin type. Skin with large, open pores indicates an ‘oily’ skin type whilst a smooth, finer pore size is categorized as a ‘dry’ skin type. The texture of the skin is dependent on the secretion of the sebaceous gland (skin oil glands) and the skin’s moisture level.

Acid or alkaline (pH) Balance of the Skin

The pH of the skin distinguishes the degree of alkalinity or acidity of the skin. The scale of the pH level is measured from 1 to 14. The pH levels less than 7 indicates an acid balance while alkaline levels are categorized as a pH greater than 7. The ideal pH level of the skin is 7.5 which is almost neutral, neither acid nor alkaline. Keratinization of the epidermis and the secretions of both the sebaceous and sweat glands form the skins acid creates a mantle that protects the skin against infection and this may affect the pH of the skin.

Taking these factors into consideration helps to determine the individual’s type of skin from the categories of oily, normal, dry and combination. Analyzing the skin aids in suitable treatment regimes that is most beneficial to the individual skin type. Treatments that are contra-indicated for the different skin types should be identified before commencing the treatment, thereby preventing side effects.

What is folliculitis?

Folliculitis is a common condition involving the hair follicle. The hair in the follicle which normally grows in an upward direction curves and re-enters the skins surface resulting in the appearance of small white pimples or clusters of red bumps around the hair follicle. Bearded areas (sycosis barbae) on the facial skin are often infected with the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus , resulting in pain, swelling and redness of the skin.

Folliculitis Picture from Dartmouth College

Folliculitis is commonly referred to as an ‘ingrown hair’ and can occur anywhere on the body except areas that do not have hair follicles such as the palms of hand or soles of the feet. Follicular pustules or pimples occur in and around the hair follicle area. This condition affects individuals of all age groups but is common in people suffering with diabetes mellitus,  HIV, cancer or individuals on chemotherapy treatment. Ingrown hair is also more prevalent amongst individuals with curly or wavy hair due to the stiff structure of the hair composition which may be based on ethnic or genetic traits. The ingrown hairs are easily removed but the development of pimples may still persist.

Causes of Folliculitis

• Irritation of the hair shaft or follicle opening in the skin.
• Friction on the shaved area which is often caused by tight clothing.
• Excessive perspiration is often a common irritant to the hair follicle.
• Injury to the skin caused by cuts and nicks during shaving, leaves the skin susceptible to bacteria.
• Close or frequent shaving can result in irritation of the skin.
• Bacterial infection (staph skin infection) through skin abrasions results in folliculitis.

Preventing Folliculitis

• The use of an electric shaver may be a better option than the razor as it is more hygienic.
• If the use of the razor is essential, a new blade should be used for every shave.
• Avoid repetitive shaving over the same area to prevent the occurrence of cuts and knicks.
• Shave in the direction of the hair growth to minimize the occurrence of ingrown hair.
• Do not shave over skin that appears dry or irritated.
• Avoid the use of tight clothing for 2 to 3 days after shaving.
• Daily or frequent shaving should be avoided.
• Exfoliation of the skin can help to keep the area clean preventing the spread of bacteria.

Treatment and Management of Folliculitis

• Hydrocortisone creams are effective alleviating dry itchy skin.
• The application of an antibiotic ointment will sterilize the area preventing the spread of bacteria.
• Topical anesthetic ointments aids in the relief of pain and soreness of the ingrown hair.
• Oral antibiotics may be administered for bacterial skin infections.
• A warm moist towel should be applied twice a day to the affected area to keep the hair soft.
• Permanent hair removal such as electrolysis can aid in the prevention of ingrown hairs and pimples.
• If the condition does not rectify itself or becomes a recurrent chronic condition, seek medical advice.
• Avoid squeezing ingrown hair pimples that occur to prevent possible scarring.

]]> http://www.skincare21.net/folliculitis-treatment-of-ingrown-hair-pimples.htm/feed 1 http://www.skincare21.net/tips-for-oily-skin-care.htm http://www.skincare21.net/tips-for-oily-skin-care.htm#comments Fri, 07 Aug 2009 21:01:48 +0000 Dr. John http://www.skincare21.net/?p=177 Oily skin is the excessive production of oil (sebum) by the oil glands of the skin (sebaceous glands) that gives the skin the oily and shiny texture often associated with teenagers and those suffering with acne vulgaris. Increased oil production is a result of hormones, particularly the androgens (male sex hormones) which is present in both males and females.

What causes oily skin?

At puberty, or during hormonal fluctuations that cause oily skin, the action of these androgens increases the size of the oil glands in the skin (sebaceous glands) as well as causing enlarged pores. This enlarged glands and pores result in more oil being produced as well as more oil being secreted onto the skin. It is often believed that oily skin is a result of external factors but long term oily skin is very much an internal process regulated by the body’s hormones.

What is a whitehead and blackhead?

Sebum or skin oil is a thick, fatty secretion which can easily block the pores, cause whiteheads or blackheads and result in a pimple or pustule due to secondary bacterial infection. The sebaceous gland has deep ducts with short hair-like filaments facilitating the flow of sebum to the external surface of the skin. Any obstruction to the flow of sebum will cause a build up of skin oil resulting in a white, waxy plug that is commonly referred to as a whitehead (closed comedone). Due to the action of oxidation caused by air, the oil plug becomes a blackhead (open comedone).

What is a pimple?

Inflammation due to a blocked pore will cause a slight raised conical elevation known as a papule or commonly referred to as a pimple. Bacteria on the skin, either naturally occurring skin bacteria or germs from other sources, can infect the inflamed skin and result in a pustule (pustular or ‘pus’ pimple).

Skin Care for Oily Skin

• A daily skin care regime is essential in reducing the oil build up on the skin. Cleansing should be regular and thorough and done at least twice a day, morning and night.
• Cleanse the skin with a gel cleanser to remove any surface dirt or grit.
• Exfoliate with a granular exfoliating application which is best suited for oily skin. The scrubbing action helps dislodge and oil build up, and deeper lying grit or dead skin cells that may be obstructing the pores.
• Toning with an antibacterial agent will disinfectant the skin. A toner has an astringent effect on the skin thereby causing a temporary reduction in pore size. Alcohol based toners should be avoided as they may cause excessive drying of the skin.
• A light moisturizer with a high water and low oil content is advisable to hydrate the skin rather than ‘oiling’ the skin with a cream.
• Spot creams can be applied on the problem area or directly on pimples to reduce inflammation and prevent any infection. The spot or blemish applications allows drying out of the pimple so that the area can heal faster.
• A sunscreen (non-greasy formula) should be applied daily to reduce blemishing, especially where there is sun sensitivity of the skin.
• Avoid pinching or squeezing a pimple. This may seem like a ‘quick fix’ solution but often causes scarring as well as causing new pimples to erupt in the area.
• If you have long hair, it is important to wear it in a manner that prevents the hair from touching the face. Hair is usually oily and traps dust and bacteria in the air.
• Smokers and nail biters should be cautious about touching their face with unwashed hands. The remnants of tobacco and bacteria from the mouth is easily transferred to the skin where it can aggravate inflammation and cause an infection.

Causes of Melasma

Hyperpigmentation is the increased melanin production causing a characteristic dark discoloration of the skin. The increased melanin (pigment) production is often an indication of hormone imbalances in the body and therefore melasma is commonly found in women who are pregnant or on hormone replacement therapy (HRT).

Pregnancy causes an over stimulation of melanocytes (pigment cells) resulting in pigmentation occurring on the nipples, lower abdomen and face areas. Exposure of light on the skin can further aggravate the condition. The pigmented patches usually disappear after the birth of the baby or the cessation of the hormone therapy but in some cases it may remain as a permanent blemish.

Treatment for Melasma

Treatment for melasma does not have a 100% success rate as the as pigmentation can fade into the normal skin tone giving the appearance of a ‘cure’. There are preventative measures and treatment that can aid in the management of melasma.

• Treatment with 2% to 4% hydroquinone in a cream base may decrease pigmentation but may aggravate or cause dermatitis of the skin.
• Topical 0.1% tretinoin sequentially used with hydroquinone will enhance the effect in the treatment of melasma.
• Hydroquinone is contra-indicated in individuals with liver or kidney conditions, open cuts and bruises and severely sun burn skin. Individuals who have allergies, sensitive skin or are on certain type of medication need to use hydroquinone with caution especially if the treatment is long term.
• Long term application of hydroquinone can cause local ochronosis and hydroquinone creams should only be prescribed by your dermatologist. A skin assessment will first be conducted before you dermatologist will decide upon the most appropriate course of treatment.
• For the maximum bleaching effect from the use of hydroquinone applications, avoid excessive sun exposure. Light and sun sensitivity of the skin may be noticed after starting a hydroquinone cream.
• A sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 to 30 should be used to prevent the aggravation of melasma. Avoid daily use of sunscreen creams with an SPF greater than 30.
• Small patches of melasma can be camouflaged with cosmetic creams that do not wipe off (stay-fast formulation) although these should only be used when other treatment is not successful.
• The use of corticosteroid creams are another common approach to treating early stages of melasma. Hydrocortisone applications are never recommended as it causes thinning of the skin and the condition often returns worse that the original state once the hydrocortisone is discontinued.

The cosmetic industry is constantly marketing new and more effective treatments for melasma, often promoting products that have not undergone clinical trials. From whitening creams (skin bleaches) to ascorbic acid (vitamin C) applications and vitamin A creams, melasma should be treated by a professional rather than risking your skin with overpriced, over-the-counter products.

Predisposing Conditions

Sun sensitivity of the skin is present in conditions such as:

Polymorphic Light Eruptions

This is a form of dermatosis of the skin that affects more women than men. Lesions of papules, plaques and vesicles are usually present on the sun exposed areas of the skin. These lesions appear to be more common in the spring and summer seasons and occurs approximately 24 hours after the skin has been exposed to the strong sunlight.

Actinis Reticuloid/Chronic Actinic Dermatitis

This is a rare condition affecting middle aged or elderly men. The area of the skin that is exposed to the sun becomes sensitive to light although the exact cause of this skin disease is not known. Thick plaques of dermatitis begin to develop when exposed to sunlight.

Solar Urticaria and Actinic Prurigo

Solar urticaria, similar to hives, is a rare condition that occurs on the sun exposed areas of the skin. The formation of wheals and skin itching occurs after the skin has been exposed to the sun. Actinic prurigo is a skin condition that begins in the early years of childhood with the development of papules and excoriations on sun exposed areas of the skin.

Treatment & Management

• The individual should wear protective clothing such as a sun hat or a long sleeve shirt on sunny days to protect the skin against sunlight, especially when outdoors.
• Avoid sunlight as far as possible to prevent any further development of lesions.
• Topical preparations of ointments or lotions containing local anaesthetics of benzocaine and other sensitizing preparations should be avoided.
• A course of systemic corticosteroids will decrease any discomfort although this offers only short term relief.
• An oral preparation of hydroxychloroquine reduces and suppresses the skins sensitivity to light.
• Sun block creams or sunscreens should be worn daily on sun exposed areas of the skin and applied many times in a day, especially after swimming.
• PUVA is effective in the treatment of polymorphous light eruptions and should be used on the sun exposed areas of the skin.

With regards to sunscreens, the main preventative agent in photodermatosis, it is important to monitor the sun protection factor (SPF) of your sunscreen. In most cases an application with SPF 15 to 30  may be suitable and higher SPF creams should be avoided as they may cause contact dermatitis. Rather combine your sunscreen with other sun protecting or reducing measures instead of choosing high SPF creams.

Following exposure to sun light, the epidermis increases its production of melanin to provide natural protection against sun exposure. This is seen as darkening of the skin or a tanning effect. Individual skin reacts differently when exposed to the sun making the comparison of light and sun sensitivity differ from person to person as the amount of melanin produced differs in each individual. While this hyperpigmentation may offer some natural protection against the skin, the cause of the light or sun sensitivity should nevertheless be treated.