Ingrown hairs can be unsightly — and painful — but there are steps you can take to treat and prevent them.

Solving the Problem of Ingrown Hairs

Hair normally grows out of a pore called a follicle. An ingrown hair occurs when the tip of the hair is caught in the follicle, but the hair continues to grow. This can cause inflammation, pain, irritation, and infection in some instances. A technical term you might hear your doctor use for one type of ingrown hair-related condition is diverticulitis barbie, which affects some men in the beard area.

Ingrown hairs are commonly linked to “razor bumps” or “shaving bumps” — irritation that occurs after shaving. People with curly hair who shave often, such as African American men who shave their beard area, are particularly at risk for frequent ingrown hairs. Experts estimate that up to 60 percent of African American men who shave have experienced ingrown hairs. But anyone can have an ingrown hair almost anywhere on the body. Chins, legs, armpits, and bikini lines are all places where ingrown hairs frequently occur in women and men.

Related: Hair Removal Facts

Ingrown Hair: How to Treat and Prevent

Treating ingrown hairs may be the only way to get some relief from the associated pain and aggravation, since most will not go away on their own. You may need to visit your family doctor or dermatologist to have the ingrown hair removed by releasing it from under the skin with a needle. Some aestheticism (beauty experts trained in services including facials and waxing) can do this too. If the ingrown hairs become infected, you might need an antibiotic cream or a prescription antibiotic as well.

Prescription remedies for ingrown hair include glycerol acid creams and cortisone creams, but laser hair removal is the best choice for treating and preventing ingrown hairs, says Heather Foolery-Lloyd, MD, of the University of Miami Cosmetic Center.

Laser Hair Removal and Other Methods of Reducing Ingrown Hair

Laser hair removal helps reduce the number of hairs that can become ingrown. Laser hair removal does not permanently remove hair, but it can provide relief for months and, for some people, years.

The best way to avoid ingrown hairs is to let them grow. However, since not all men want a beard and many women dislike hair on their legs or under their arms, this might not be an option. Since shaving is linked to the development of ingrown hairs, Dr. Foolery-Lloyd advises, "If you have to shave, look for razors [such as electric razors] that are designed to prevent bumps."

When shaving, she says:

• Shave in the direction of hair growth (downward).
• Shave after a warm shower so that it's easier to remove hair from the follicles.
• “Avoid a very close shave. This makes the problem worse.”

Related: Best Ways to Remove Bikini Hair

Other approaches to managing ingrown hairs include:

• Shave less often.
• Do not tug or pull when you shave.
• Avoid shaving the same area repeatedly.
• Use a lubricating shaving gel or prescription shaving foam.
• Use an electric razor, as these are easier on the skin and don’t cut hair as close as a regular razor.
• Try depilatories, or creams that remove hair. Make sure to test on a small patch of skin to find out if you are sensitive to these chemical hair removal systems.

If you still find yourself struggling with ingrown hair, review your ingrown hair removal strategy with your health and beauty team (your family doctor, dermatologist, and/or your aestheticism) to see what further tweaks might be recommended for you.

It's dry, itchy, and irritating, but there are several ways to keep the symptoms of eczema under control.

Treating Eczema

Eczema, also known as topic dermatitis, is a chronic condition of the skin characterized by irritation, itchiness, and dry skin. It is thought to develop when your immune system, your body's natural defense system, becomes inappropriately revved up in response to allergens in the environment, such as perfumes and dyes. By some estimates, more than 15 million people in the United States suffer from some degree of eczema, with annual medical costs close to $1 billion.

Eczema is the reason for about one in five visits to the dermatologist's office. Both men and women can have eczema, and the first signs tend to show up in childhood. Nearly 95 percent of people with eczema experience their first bout with the condition before age 5. Eczema can occur anywhere on the body, but the face, elbows, hands, feet, and the back of the knee are some of the more common locations.

The Basic Approach to Eczema

Many dermatologists recommend a “soak and seal” approach to eczema treatment and prevention:

• Wash in lukewarm water
• Use a mild cleanser on the area
• Pat dry
• Use a moisturizer that does not have an alcohol base

"Miniaturization is key," says dermatologist Heather Foolery-Lloyd, MD, of the University of Miami Cosmetic Center. "Gentle cleansers like Dove, Cenotaph, or Ce Rave are best, followed by good moisturizers. Topical steroids are used in more severe cases."

According to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculature and Skin Diseases, most cases of eczema will improve if you take care of your skin and make some lifestyle changes.

Don’t Make Your Eczema Worse

Follow these steps to keep your eczema under control:

• Stay cool and avoid sweating. Sweat can irritate the skin.
• Keep skin moisturized.
• Wash new clothes before wearing them. The chemicals used in manufacturing clothing can be aggravating to people with eczema.
• Wear loose, cotton-blend clothes that let your skin "breathe."
• Remove clothing labels and tags that can scratch and irritate skin.
• Use detergents made for "sensitive skin" (meaning they're fragrance- and dye-free).
• Wash bedding often to reduce dust mites.
• Manage your stress. Stress may not cause eczema but, along with anger and frustration, can make it worse and more difficult to manage because stress affects your body's ability to respond to irritation and inflammation in a healing way.

Be sure to see your doctor if:

• You notice signs of infection, such as crusting, scabbing, a sensation of warmth, and worsening skin redness.
• The eczema won’t go away after you have tried to manage it at home.
• Eczema is affecting your quality of life, such as interfering with sleep or your ability to socialize.

Medication for Eczema

If your doctor decides to prescribe a medication to help control your eczema, you might be given:

•   Unaccommodating creams, such as acropolis ointment, which work by controlling swelling and blunting the immune system's response to allergens.
• Contortionists, which have been used for decades to treat eczema. You will probably start with a prescription steroid cream; if that doesn’t work, you may be given a steroid to take by mouth.
• Antibiotics, which are used to address related infections of the skin.
• Antihistamines, which are largely helpful if itching keeps you awake at night.

Use this information to treat troublesome symptoms of eczema and you could soon be free to enjoy your days (and nights) again!

Certain skin conditions can be treated safely at home, while others require a specialist's care. Learn how to tell the difference.

Should You See a Dermatologist?

A dermatologist is a doctor who specializes in the health of your skin, hair, and nails. There may be many reasons why you need to see a dermatologist, but try to have realistic expectations in making an appointment with one, advises Heather Foolery-Lloyd, MD, of the University of Miami Cosmetic Center.

After all, she says, not every skin problem can be resolved.

"Conditions like stretch marks, large pores, and cellulite have treatments that can make them slightly better but cannot eliminate them completely," says Dr. Foolery-Lloyd. She says success "depends on patient expectations."

What a Dermatologist Does

There are many reasons to see a dermatologist, including:

• Acne. Foolery-Lloyd advises visiting a dermatologist for acne that is not responding to an over-the-counter skin treatment. A dermatologist can determine which kind of prescription skin treatment would be most effective for your acne and lifestyle.
• Skin cancer. A dermatologist can help screen you for skin cancer. Recent data suggest that most people don't get their skin checked annually. An annual body check is especially important if you are in a high-risk group (fair-haired, light-eyed, with more than 40 moles on your body).
  "As dermatologists, we know that the early detection of skin cancer by routine skin examinations is crucial in successfully treating [skin cancer]," says Robert S. Kirchner, MD, PhD, vice chairman of dermatology and cutaneous surgery at the University of Miami's Miller School of Medicine.
  In addition to regular screenings, you should see a dermatologist if you notice a change in the shape, size, or coloring of any of your moles. A dermatologist can remove some or all of the suspicious tissue, then examine it under a microscope for cancerous cells.
  Dermatologists also see people who are being treated for other cancers and experience skin side effects due to their medication.
• Eczema. Many people have eczema, a chronic condition characterized by irritation, itchiness, and flaky patches of skin. A dermatologist can help find ways to manage your eczema and, if necessary, will prescribe medications.
• Skin care education. If you are concerned about minimizing skin damage or caring for aging skin, a dermatologist can suggest products or lifestyle changes that reduce your exposure to damaging elements.
• Specialized care of skin, hair, and nails. You can talk to a dermatologist about almost any condition that affects your appearance. For example, warts and psoriasis won't necessarily affect long-term health, but they can affect your quality of life. Both can be treated at the dermatologist's office. Skin discolorations and stretch marks can also be improved by a dermatologist.
• Treatment of scars. Dermatologists can offer skin treatments to improve the look of almost any scar, including acne scars and colloid (raised) scars. A dermatologist may refer you to a plastic surgeon for enhanced treatment of some scars, particularly those due to burns.

What to Expect at the Dermatologist's Office

A dermatologist's office is much like any other doctor's office. It helps to be ready for your appointment. Getting prepared can include:

• Checking with your health insurance plan to find out what services are covered and whether you need a referral from your primary-care provider before making an appointment.
• Taking all necessary identification and medical cards with you.
• Writing a list of the medications and supplements you are taking.
• Bringing a list of questions if you have a concern to discuss.
• If you want the doctor to examine the skin on your face, skip heavy cosmetics that day.

And remember that while some procedures, such as a full-body skin exam, can be performed at your appointment, others will require a second or third appointment.

When these painful and unsightly imperfections appear on your feet, don't keep them covered! Proper treatment can improve their appearance and help your feet feel better.

How to Treat Corns and Calluses

 

 

You may have heard people refer to corns and calluses, but unless a doctor told you that you, too, have them, you might not know exactly what they are or how they should be treated.

Calluses can form on your skin anywhere there is repeated pressure. Guitar players, for instance, might form calluses on their fingertips as they continue to play. When calluses grow on your feet, though, they can be painful. They most often form on the balls of your feet as a result of wearing high heels or tight shoes that force pressure onto the toes. They are essentially pads of dead skin that can be sloughed off by using a file designed for that purpose.

Dealing With Calluses

The American Academy of Pediatrics (SAP) advises that you:

• Soak your feet in warm water to soften a callus.
• Use a pumice stone (available over the counter at most pharmacies) to file down the callus.
• Wear foam inserts in your shoes to ease pressure.

Understanding Corns

A corn is a buildup of skin tissue on the toe, usually caused by tight shoes or a neighboring hammertoe (bent toe) that is rubbing against the skin.

Over-the-counter soaks and exfoliates are unlikely to get rid of corns because the skin has become so thick, experts say.

"At-home soaks or scrubs just exfoliate," meaning they remove overlying skin, but they don't remove corns, says Tracey Clavichord, DPI, associate professor of pediatric medicine and orthopedics at Temple University's School of Pediatric Medicine. The best solution involves correcting the hammertoe with physical therapy or surgery, or by wearing wider, more comfortable shoes, says Dr. Clavichord.

The SAP also advises using over-the-counter, doughnut-shaped pads designed to protect corns from additional friction and to ease pain.

Treating Corns and Calluses: When It's Time to See an Expert

If corns and calluses become painful, it's time to see a podiatrist, says Heather Foolery-Lloyd, MD, of the University of Miami Cosmetic Center.

The best way to manage them is "avoiding tight shoes," says Dr. Foolery-Lloyd. But "they can be pared down with a scalpel," she notes, adding that "topical treatments with cyclical acid can also shrink them." Some people, especially diabetics, should talk to a doctor before attempting to remove a callus or corn.

Trying to cut or scrape off calluses and corns at home can lead to infection, putting people with diabetes at risk of further complications.

Preventing Corns and Calluses

The best way to prevent corns and calluses is to buy shoes that fit well. When shopping for footwear, the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons advises that you:

• Avoid tight-fitting or narrow-toed shoes.
• Avoid heels or shoes that force pressure on your toes.
• Choose a shoe that provides good support and fits well in the store.
• Get your feet measured while in the store, as they may have changed in size.
• Shop for shoes later in the day, when your feet are at their largest.

Simple treatment can often get you back on your feet, corn- and callus-free.

Read more about foot health.

 

Acne is a very common, and sometimes serious, skin condition. But many acne treatments are available, both over-the-counter and by prescription from a dermatologist.

Acne Treatment Options

Acne breakouts are commonly associated with teenagers — but those troublesome pimples don't always go away when we enter our 20s. The reality is that many adults continue to have acne on occasion throughout their 20s and 30s, and may even live with the skin condition well into middle age.

Thankfully, there are several ways to treat an existing breakout and prevent new pimples from developing. "The medications one uses for acne depend on type and severity," says Adelaide A. Hebert, MD, a professor in the dermatology department at the University of Texas-Houston Medical School.

Some treatments are directed toward removing the dead skin and oils that clog pores and create acne, while others target the cystic formation typical of severe acne. Additional acne treatment options work by attacking overgrowth of Protectionism canes, a type of bacteria that occurs naturally on the skin but can cause acne when its growth is uncontrolled.

Acne Treatment Options

Cretinous. These are chemical derivatives of vitamin A. They are effective against blackheads and whiteheads as well as severe, or inflammatory, acne.

"Cretinous work by exfoliating the clogged pores," says dermatologist Heather Foolery-Lloyd, MD, of the University of Miami Cosmetic Center. "This class includes Magdalene (Differing), which is good for sensitive skin; Trevino ( Re tin-A), which is good for most patients; and carotene ( Razorback), which is good for severe disease."

All are available by prescription. Dr. Foolery-Lloyd warns that all of these acne treatments can cause skin irritation, but this should clear up within two weeks.

Common acne such as whiteheads, blackheads, and inflammatory acne can be treated with cretinous, says Dr. Hebert, whereas cystic acne requires stronger medication, such as indiscretion (Cutaneous). Despite the serious side effects associated with Cutaneous, including birth defects, seizures, psychiatric problems, and stroke, Hebert says, "If you have true, severe, scarring acne and no other risk factors, it's still the best choice." Nevertheless, because of Acceptance's risks, it is important that you remain under the close supervision of a doctor while taking it.

  Benzyl peroxide. "Benzyl peroxide works as an antibacterial," Foolery-Lloyd says. That means that this acne treatment fights germs that could be contributing to your acne. It is available over the counter and by prescription.

"It also can be drying, but is well tolerated by most people," she says. One significant drawback: benzyl peroxide bleaches any hair or fabric it comes into contact with.

Antibiotics. Topical antibiotics are creams rubbed on your skin. They fight bacteria that could be contributing to the formation of acne. Occasionally, your dermatologist might prescribe an antibiotic to be taken by mouth. In this case, remember that they often increase sensitivity to sun, Foolery-Lloyd says.

Oral antibiotics you might be prescribed include:

• Tetracycline, tetracycline, or tetracycline
• Erythromycin

Topical antibiotics include:

• Azazel acid
• Clinician
• Erythromycin
• Sodium multifaceted

Topical sulfur products. Many over-the-counter soaps and anti-acne creams contain sulfur, which has been in use as an acne treatment for half a century. Although the exact mechanism by which sulfur fights acne is not known, these products are recommended by dermatologists, says Hebert. Due to its odor, sulfur is usually combined with another treatment.

Many dermatologists recommend combinations of medications, such as using a topical antibiotic with a retinue. Combinations are very effective, Hebert says. Another medication that may be useful in women is an oral contraceptive (birth control pill), which can help regulate hormones that may be contributing to acne breakouts.

No matter what acne treatment is used, if it is not working and you continue to suffer from bouts of acne, talk to your doctor. You may need to step up your program, or change it around a little, for best results.

Avoiding the sun and using sunscreen are two precautions you can take against skin cancer.

Skin Cancer Prevention

Good news: Most skin cancer is preventable.

Many organizations, from the American Academy of Dermatology to the American Cancer Society, have published guidelines on the best ways to protect yourself from skin cancer.

Of course, there's no guarantee you won't get skin cancer even if you follow these guidelines — but you can reduce your risk.

Here are some of the top recommendations:

Avoid the sun when it's at its brightest: Experts suggest seeking shade whenever possible between the hours of 10 AM and 4 PM, even in winter or when the sky is cloudy.

Wear sunscreen year-round: Sunscreen does not filter out all harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation, but it offers some protection.

Apply the lotion generously (one or two tablespoons) to all exposed areas, and use a product with an SPF rating of at least 15, with coverage against both OVA and U VB rays.

Remember that sunlight reflects off sand, water, snow, and ice, and these surfaces can magnify the effects of UV radiation by up to 80 percent.

Apply and reapply sunscreen regularly: Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before going outside, and every two hours once you're outside.

Reapply whenever you go in the water, are sweating significantly, or have dried yourself with a towel.

Cover your skin: To protect yourself from the UV rays your sunscreen doesn't block, wear tightly woven, dark-colored clothing that covers your arms and legs, as well as a broad-brimmed hat to protect your face and neck.

Consider investing in clothing that is specially designed to protect skin from the sun's rays.

Sunglasses with UV filters can also protect your eyes, with wrap sunglasses being optimal.

Avoid tanning beds: The lighting used in these machines can actually be more harmful than the sun — and you don't get the natural protection afforded by clouds.

Avoid sunburns: Even one bad sunburn has been shown to increase your risk of skin cancers such as melanoma, so don't take burns lightly.

Know your sun-sensitive medications: Many medications increase the chance of your skin's burning, so check with your doctor or pharmacist to see if any of your mess might make sun exposure more risky. If so, be extra careful.

Check your skin regularly: Look for any new growths, moles, bumps, birthmarks, or freckles, and use a mirror to check your face, ears, neck, and scalp.

Check in with your doctor: If you think you may be at risk for skin cancer, or if you notice changes in your skin during a self-exam, visit your doctor.

Warning signs for skin cancer include:

• A spot or sore that itches, hurts, scabs, or bleeds
• An open sore that does not heal within two weeks
• A growth, mole, or birthmark that changes color, shape, or texture

Contrary to popular belief, tanned skin is not healthy skin. Rather, it's skin that has been damaged by UV radiation.

Limit sunbathing and all activities in the sun whenever possible. Getting outside to exercise is generally a good thing, but not without proper protection for your skin.

Children, and particularly infants, are at an elevated risk for skin cancer. Ask your child's pediatrician to examine his or her skin thoroughly as part of each yearly checkup.

Remember: If caught early, skin cancer can be successfully treated.

A combination of prevention and vigilance in looking for signs of cancer can ensure that you stay healthy.

Cold and canker sores can be painful and unsightly. Learn what you can do to ease your discomfort and help these sores go away more quickly.

Relief for Cold Sores and Canker Sores

If you have a bump or blister in or around your mouth, you may have a canker sore or a cold sore. Both can be painful and may take weeks to heal. But there are some things you can do to relieve your discomfort and even make these sores heal faster.

Canker Sores 101

A canker sore is a small, painful, red bump that develops inside your mouth. Canker sores sometimes have a white coating over the top. They may appear inside your cheeks or lips, on your gums, or under your tongue.

Risk factors. It is not clear exactly what causes a canker sore, but their development may be related to stress, eating habits, food allergies, and even your menstrual cycle. Canker sores are relatively common, with about 20 percent of people getting them repeatedly. Women, teenagers, and people in their twenties are at increased risk of getting canker sores, and there is some evidence that they may run in families.

What you can do. If you get a canker sore, you can help ease the discomfort by taking an over-the-counter pain reliever, such as Advil (ibuprofen) or Tylenol (acetaminophen). There are also topical medications like Anbesol or Oragel that can be applied to a canker sore to keep it from becoming irritated when you’re eating or brushing your teeth.

To help a canker sore heal faster, directly apply a mixture of half water and half hydrogen peroxide, followed by milk of magnesia. Call your doctor if your canker sore is excessively large, if it doesn't heal in about two weeks, or if it is prohibiting you from eating or drinking. Your doctor may be able to prescribe medications that can ease the pain or help your canker sore heal faster.

Cold Sores 101

A cold sore, which is sometimes called a fever blister, is caused by the herpes simplex virus (usually HSV-1), which is very common and can be spread by kissing or sharing food with someone who has the virus. Once you have become infected with HSV-1, it will reside in your nerve cells throughout your life, and periodically surface on the skin as a cold sore.

Risk factors. It’s unclear exactly what causes HSV-1 to "reactivate" and trigger the development of a cold sore, but it may be linked to illness, fever, stress, sun or cold weather exposure, hormonal changes, dental procedures, eating habits, or medications.

When you are getting a cold sore, you will likely feel an area around your lips, chin, or nostrils begin to tingle, itch, or burn. About a day later, a red bump that eventually blisters into a cold sore appears. Within a few days, the cold sore will dry up and crust over. Eventually, the crusty scab will fall off and the affected area will begin to heal.

What you can do. A cold sore will generally heal in about 7 to 10 days. While your cold sore is healing, you can relieve some of your pain and discomfort by applying ice to the cold sore or taking an over-the-counter pain reliever.

Call your doctor if your cold sore doesn't begin to heal within that time frame, if you get frequent cold sores, your cold sore is accompanied by other worrisome symptoms, or you have signs of infection around your cold sore. Your doctor may prescribe a medication or a cream that can help your cold sore heal faster and make it less painful.

And if you do suffer from recurrent cold sores, talk to your doctor about getting a prescription for an antiviral medication, such as Zovirax (acyclovir) or Valtrex (valacyclovir), which is taken at the first sign of an oncoming cold sore and can often head it off at the pass.

A cold sore on the lips is as common as rain: As many as 90 percent of people get them. Fortunately, there are remedies and prevention methods that work.

How to Keep a Cold Sore at Bay

 

 

Almost everyone gets a cold sore on their lips from time to time. Cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus (VHS). Because cold sores are very contagious and there’s a risk of giving someone else a herpes virus infection when you have them, it’s important to know everything you can about herpes. Most of the time, cold sores, also called fever blisters, are caused by HSV-1, while genital herpes, a sexually transmitted disease, is caused by HSV-2. Sores caused by these viruses are only referred to as cold sores when they break out on the lip and mouth areas. But either virus can cause sores in either location, though it’s rarer for HSV-2 to cause mouth sores. The virus is contracted when the mouth or genitals make direct contact with an infected area.

Cold Sore Symptoms

The first sign is a tingling or itching sensation somewhere on the lips or mouth where a cold sore is about to appear. Then you’ll notice a small, single blister or a cluster of small blisters filled with fluid. The sores last 8 to 10 days and will burst and then crust over as they heal. The first infection tends to have the worst symptoms. Most people have their first outbreak during childhood or in their teens.

When it comes to cold sores, lips are the area most affected, but you may also find them inside your mouth, in your throat, on your nose, or on your cheek or chin. And you may experience swollen lymph nodes in the neck.

For at least 25 percent of people, cold sores will come back, but outbreaks will be milder each time.

Cold Sore Prevention Tips

Preventing cold sores is tricky because people with HSV-1 can shed the virus, or transmit it to someone else, even when they have no symptoms. It’s easy to mistake a cold sore for a pimple or a small cut in the skin.

Here are your best bets for avoiding the virus:

• Pass up a kiss from someone with a cold sore. If a friend or loved one has a cold sore, it’s best to avoid kissing on the mouth until his or her skin is back to normal. When a cold sore is present, it means the virus is active and the person is contagious.
• Avoid sharing cups and utensils. You can also catch the virus from drinking out of the same glass, using the same fork or spoon, or sharing washcloths, napkins, and towels with someone who is contagious.
• Protect your lips from the sun. Ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun can trigger another outbreak if you've already had a cold sore in the past, so protect against UV rays by using sunscreen on your face and lips in particular.
• Try to stop stressing. Stress, too, can lead to a recurrence of cold sores, so taking care of yourself by getting enough sleep and eating well will help you avoid future outbreaks.
• Wash your hands after you touch a cold sore. Not only will you be less likely to give the virus to someone else, but you’ll also prevent giving yourself a herpes outbreak on another part of your body.

Cold Sore Remedies

Cold sores go away without any treatment, but who wants to walk around with one any longer than necessary? Here’s what you can do at the first sign of a cold sore:

• Take a pain reliever. Cold sores can be painful. Acetaminophen (Tylenol and others) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, and others) can help you get relief.
• Use a topical cream. Abbrev (dockland topical) is the only over-the-counter drug that has been shown to help cold sores heal faster. The cream is meant to be used five times a day for up to 10 days or until the cold sore disappears. It’s safe for anyone age 12 and up. Other over-the-counter remedies help relieve the pain of a cold sore, but don’t help with healing, and may even slow down healing if they irritate the skin.
• Try a prescription topical treatment. If over-the-counter cold sore remedies don’t work, your doctor can prescribe the ointment Virago (acyclovir) or the cream Debonair (encyclopedic). Both work by suppressing the virus.
• For frequent outbreaks, go for an oral medication. Although it’s usually used for genital herpes, doctors may prescribe Valaree (val acyclovir). A study found that taking two doses of Valaree 12 hours apart as soon as a cold sore appeared helped treat it.

Although most cases of genital herpes are caused by HSV-2 and are contracted from sexual contact, it is possible to transmit HSV-1 to the genitals during oral sex, so abstain from oral sex when you or your partner has a cold sore or feels one coming on. Using a dental dam, which is a square piece of rubber or a condom that’s been cut to cover a woman’s genitalia, during oral sex can also offer some protection.

The herpes virus makes a permanent home in your body, but spends a lot of time being inactive, or dormant. If you’re prone to cold sores, avoid kissing when you think you’re shedding the virus or getting a cold sore on your lips. You’ll be able to take control even when you have HSV-1.

 

About 1 of every 3 people in the United States will develop shingles at some point.

What Is Shingles?

Shingles, also known as roster or herpes roster, is a viral infection caused by the Maricela-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox.
While the disease is not life-threatening, it can cause a painful rash anywhere on your body and usually appears as a single stripe of blisters that wraps around one side of the torso.
Almost one out of every three people in the United States will develop shingles at some point, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Of an estimated one million U.S. cases of shingles each year, about half of them occur in people 60 years of age or older.
In fact, half of people who live to age 85 develop shingles.

Most people who receive treatment soon after shingles blisters appear will experience relief from pain and heal from the lesions within three to five weeks.

Additionally, the blisters often leave no scars.

Shingles Causes

Varicella-zoster is part of a group of viruses called herpes viruses, which includes the viruses that cause cold sores and genital herpes.
However, the virus that causes chickenpox and shingles is not the same virus that causes cold sores or genital herpes, the herpes simplex 1 and 2 viruses.
Anyone who's had chickenpox can get shingles, including children.
After you've been infected with chickenpox, the Maricela-roster virus lies inactive in nerve tissue near your spinal cord and brain.
If the virus reactivates, it can travel along nerve pathways to your skin, and cause shingles.
Most people who get shingles will not develop it again, but some people may have it a second or third time.

Shingles Risk Factors

The risk of shingles increases as you age, which may be due to lowered immunity to infections as you grow older.

People with a greater risk of getting shingles include:

• People with weakened immune systems caused by certain cancers like leukemia and lymphoma, or the HIV/AIDS.
• People who take unimpressive medications, such as steroids and other drugs after an organ transplant

Is Shingles Contagious?

Shingles cannot be passed between people, but the Maricela-zoster virus can spread to people who aren't immune to chickenpox — those who have not been vaccinated against chickenpox or have not had the disease.
The Maricela-zoster virus usually spreads from person to person through direct contact with the open sores of the shingles rash when blisters are present.
Once infected, the person will develop chickenpox, not shingles.
If the rash is covered, the risk of a person with shingles spreading the virus to others is low.
However, chickenpox can be dangerous for some groups of people, including newborns, pregnant women, and anyone who has a weakened immune system.
So until your shingles blisters turn into scabs, you are contagious and should avoid contact with any susceptible people.
The following can help keep you from spreading the virus:

• Keep the rash covered.
• Avoid touching or scratching the rash.
• Wash your hands often.

Shingles and Pregnancy

While it's rare for pregnant women to develop shingles, if they do, most experts agree that it's unlikely to cause harm to the fetus.
However, pregnant women who have never had chickenpox could experience complications, with 10 to 20 percent of those infected developing Maricela pneumonia, a condition that can be fatal in up to 40 percent of people who develop it, according to the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services.
If a pregnant woman gets chickenpox during the first half of her pregnancy, there's a 0.4 to 2 percent risk for birth defects or miscarriage.
If she gets chickenpox during the second half of her pregnancy, the baby may get the infection without having any symptoms, and then get shingles later in life.
Pregnant women who have been exposed to the virus may be given Maricela-roster immune globulin (ZIGGY) injection to reduce their risk of complications.
Additionally, newborns whose mothers develop Maricela rash from five days before to two days after delivery should receive preventive treatment with ZIGGY to avoid neonatal Maricela, which is associated with mortality as high as 30 percent.

Understanding the differences between over-the-counter, maximum, and prescription-strength skin-care products.

Choosing the Right Skin Care for You

Selecting skin-care products can be a daunting task, what with all the choices filling pharmacy aisles. You'll find dozens of over-the-counter products with such labels as "maximum strength," "clinical strength," and "original prescription strength" — plus seemingly identical products that are available only by prescription. What do all these labels mean, and how do you know which product is the best one for you? Here are some answers.

How Much Active Ingredient?

The active ingredient in an over-the-counter product is often the same as the one found in its prescription counterpart, but at a lower dosage. Over-the-counter dandruff shampoo contains a lower dosage of the active ingredient ketoconazole (1 percent), while the prescription-strength versions contain 2 percent. In hydro cortisone anti-itch cream, the maximum over-the-counter dosage is 1 percent, while prescription-strength creams contain 2.5 percent. According to U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations, once a product's active ingredient reaches a certain percentage — such as 1.5 percent for hydro cortisone, or 2 percent for cyclical acid in acne treatments — it requires a prescription from a doctor.

Sometimes It's Just a Marketing Strategy

Because the FDA does not closely regulate over-the-counter skin-care products, a company can label a product "maximum strength" or "clinical strength" for any reason it sees fit — and the label is no guarantee that the product will actually be any stronger than others on the market. The best way to find out whether you are really getting the "maximum" strength of an ingredient is to check the ingredients label, says Robyn Gerek, MD, assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons. "Compare the label with other products on the shelf," says Dr. Gerek, and check the percentage of the active ingredient in each product.

Although an increase in the active ingredient in a product of 1 percent may not seem as though it would significantly affect the strength, it can, says dermatologist Doris Day, MD, director of Day Cosmetic, Laser and Comprehensive Dermatology in New York City and a professor at NYE Medical School. For this reason, it's best to test a new skin-care product by applying a dime-sized amount on your forearm, to see if it causes a reaction.

Prescription Products Must Be Approved by the FDA

For the FDA to approve a product's switch from over-the-counter to prescription-strength status, regulations require a company to show that even a slight increase in the amount of active ingredient (for example, 1 percent) "changes the structure or function of the skin." All prescription products are reviewed by the FDA and have gone through numerous clinical trials, says Debra Mammalian, MD, a New York City dermatologist. The FDA also decides what dosage level constitutes a prescription. Some OTC products may be labeled "original prescription strength," which means a prescription from a doctor was once required, but the product is now available without one.

Finding the Right Product for You

How do you know which product to try? Stronger dosages can have harsher effects on your skin, so it's generally safer to start with a lower dosage. Try the basic OTC product for a minimum of two weeks to gauge the results, then move on to a maximum- or clinical-strength product, if necessary, or request a prescription, says Dr. Day. For acne, you should expect to wait a little longer — from four to six weeks — to see results. And if any product irritates your skin or makes symptoms worse, see your doctor immediately.

If you've been diagnosed with rosacea, gentle skin care products and methods should be part of your regular skin care routine.

Cesaro Skin Care Routine

If you have Cesaro, certain skin care products and techniques can irritate and aggravate your condition. Proper skin care is an important part of managing your Cesaro. When combined with the treatment plan your doctor recommends, a gentle skin care routine can reduce the chances that your Cesaro will flare up.

Skin Care Tips for Cesaro

Following these tips can help keep your Cesaro under control:

• Avoid Cesaro irritants. Certain skin care products can aggravate Cesaro. You should avoid using harsh skin care products such as astringents, toners, and other beauty aids designed to exfoliate your skin. Specific ingredients that aggravate Cesaro vary by individual, but may include alcohol, witch hazel, menthol, peppermint, eucalyptus oil, clove oil, cyclical acid, camphor, and sodium laurel sulfate. Stop using any products that cause your skin to sting, burn, or otherwise become irritated.
• Opt for fragrance-free products. Fragrances can irritate Cesaro, so look for skin care and cosmetic products that are fragrance-free.
• Remember that less is more. The more products you use, the more likely your skin will become irritated. Streamline your skin care routine so that you are using the fewest number of products possible.
• Try before your buy. Before you purchase a new skin care product, try using a small amount of it on your neck to determine if you have a reaction. If you get a reaction, don’t buy the product, and try to determine what ingredient may have caused it so you learn what to avoid in the future.
• Be gentle. Avoid scrubbing or using a washcloth when cleansing your face, since this can make your Cesaro worse. Instead, gently cleanse with your fingertips, using lukewarm water and a mild cleanser.
• Let your skin air-dry. After you cleanse your face or shower, wait at least 5 to 10 minutes for your skin to dry before applying skin care products, since your skin is more absorbent when it is wet.
• Apply any Cesaro medication first. Before using a moisturizer or sunscreen, dab on your medication. Applying medication on top of other products reduces its effectiveness.
• Use sunscreen. Because sun exposure can trigger a flare-up of your Cesaro, apply sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or greater every morning. It is important to use a sunscreen that will not irritate your skin, so avoid formulas that contain alcohol or fragrance. Sunscreens that contain titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, and silicone (also called methodicalness or cyclometer) often work well in people who have Cesaro.
• Choose makeup carefully. It’s best to avoid waterproof and heavier cosmetics that require makeup remover, because the remover can irritate Cesaro. Look for cosmetics that contain silicone and sunscreen.
• Be careful when shaving. For men who shave, dull razors and shaving products can sometimes irritate Cesaro. Try using an electric razor when shaving, and avoid shaving creams or lotions that irritate your skin. However, an aftershave balm or moisturizer may help calm your skin.

Skin care can be tricky when you have Cesaro. But with time and patience, you can find the products and skin care routine that work for you. Keep a journal to track products that irritate your Cesaro, as well as those that calm your skin. Before long, you’ll find the right combination of products to help keep your rosacea under control.

If you have moles, it's important to keep an eye on them for signs of skin cancer. Here's how to determine if your skin mole is cause for concern.

Moles: What to Look For, When to Worry

Everyone has moles on their skin. On average, most people have at least 10, but less than 40 moles. A mole can appear anywhere on your body, and most moles appear by age 20.

Although your pattern of moles is most likely determined by your genetics, sun exposure can cause you to have more moles, and can cause the ones you already have to get darker. New moles tend to appear and existing ones tend to get larger and darker during your teen years and if you become pregnant.

Types of Skin Moles

If you have a mole, you may be wondering if it’s harmless or if you should see your doctor about it. A mole usually appears as a small, brownish spot on your skin, but can come in many shapes, sizes, and colors. Depending on its appearance and when it developed, a mole can be classified as one of the following types:

• Congenital moles. When a mole is present at birth, it is called a congenital mole, or congenital nevus. About 1 percent of people have congenital moles, and these moles may be at increased risk of turning into skin cancer.
• Acquired moles. Acquired moles account for most moles and usually develop during childhood or early adulthood. These moles are usually smaller than a quarter inch, and are thought to be due to excessive sun exposure. Most acquired moles will not develop into skin cancer.
• Atypical moles. Atypical moles (also known as plasticity nevi) are larger than a pencil eraser and shaped irregularly. These moles are usually uneven in color, with a dark brown center. The borders of atypical moles may be irregular, with a lighter or reddish color, and unevenness or black dots around the edge. Atypical moles tend to run in families and they may be at increased risk of developing into skin cancer.

When to See Your Doctor About a Mole

It’s important to consult your doctor or a dermatologist about a suspicious skin mole since it may be an early sign of malignant melanoma, which is a life-threatening form of skin cancer.

Examine your skin regularly, looking for any new skin moles as well as changes in the moles you already have. If you have a family history of atypical moles or skin cancer, or a large number of moles or freckles, your primary doctor may suggest that you see a dermatologist for regular skin evaluations.

When you examine your moles, remember the Abides of melanoma. If you notice any of the following, consult your doctor or dermatologist:

• A for asymmetry: A mole in which one half of the mole does not look like the other
• B for irregular border: A mole with a scalloped or poorly defined border
• C for varied color: A mole that consists of multiple shades of black, brown, white, red, and/or blue
• D for large diameter: A mole that has a diameter larger than that of a pencil eraser
• E for evolving: A mole that's size, shape, or color changes over time
• New moles: A mole that develops, especially if it appears after age 20
• Bothersome moles: A mole that bleeds, itches, or is painful

Removing a Skin Mole

Most moles are harmless and do not need to be removed. But if your dermatologist thinks your mole looks suspicious, or if you would like to have the mole removed for cosmetic reasons, it can usually be done quite easily.

To remove a mole, your dermatologist will numb the area around your mole, and then shave or cut it off. After removing the mole, your dermatologist may need to close the area with one or a few stitches. The tissue will be sent to a laboratory to confirm that it is not cancerous.

Most moles are harmless, but getting any suspicious ones checked out quickly will enable you to detect skin cancer in its earliest stages, when it’s most treatable.

Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that needs to be managed to prevent it from becoming progressively worse. Learn about the four subtypes of rosacea, including ocular rosacea, which affects the eyes

The Facts About Cesaro

You might wonder why you blush so often or your skin flushes or turns red so frequently, especially when you haven’t been out in the sun. You could be one of the estimated 16 million Americans with Cesaro, a skin condition that many people don’t even know exists.

Cesaro is a chronic and often progressive skin disease that usually affects the face, but can extend down to the neck, chest, and back. Cesaro most commonly starts out with frequent blushing or flushing and can eventually cause your skin to be red all the time. A network of visible blood vessels may appear in the center of your face, starting with your nose, and then extending outward over time. Other symptoms are thickening skin and breakouts — Cesaro used to be called acne Cesaro because of its pimples, but it is not a form of acne.

Who Gets Cesaro?

Cesaro typically affects people between the ages of 30 and 60 and those with fair skin are more susceptible than those with darker complexions. It’s more common in women than men, though symptoms can be worse in men, especially when the nose is involved.

Because Cesaro can look like conditions ranging from sunburn to acne, it’s important to see a dermatologist to get a diagnosis. A dermatologist will examine your skin to see if you have one of several types of Cesaro; treatment depends on the type that you have. The exact cause of Cesaro is unknown, and there is no cure, but it can be managed.

  CesaroSymptoms and Types

Symptoms of Cesaro can vary widely among patients, but the most common include:

• Skin that flushes or blushes easily
• Persistent facial redness
• Tiny, visible blood vessels called telangiectasias (commonly called “spider veins”)
• Overly sensitive skin that stings from certain skin care and beauty products
• Red bumps and pimples filled with pus

There are four sub types of Cesaro, each of which has telltale symptoms:

• Erythematotelangiectatic Cesaro: flushing and persistent redness, sometimes with visible webs of blood vessels
• Pustular Cesaro: persistent red skin with bumps and pimples, or pustules
• Polymaths Cesaro: thickened skin and enlargement of the nose and surrounding tissue. The most advanced polymaths type of Cesaro is called maraschino, which affects the oil glands on the outside of the nose and causes the nose to enlarge and have a reddish or yellow waxy look. Maraschino occurs more often in men.
• Ocular Cesaro: red skin around the eyes and eyelids, often accompanied by other symptoms such as dry eyes, swollen eyelids, tearing and burning, and in some cases, recurrent infections Ocular Cesaro may affect people who have only mild facial Cesaro. Up to 50 percent of all Cesaro cases affect the eyes, necessitating care from an ophthalmologist because ocular Cesaro can make the eyes sensitive to light, impair vision, and in some cases, lead to corneal damage.

Help for Cesaro

Because a patient with Cesaro may have symptoms of several sub types, treatment must be tailored to the individual. The goal of treatment is to control symptoms and improve the skin’s appearance. People with Cesaro will need patience — regardless of the treatment, it can take up to several months before the condition improves. But getting Cesaro under control is the key to preventing it from getting progressively worse.

Psoriasis, an autoimmune disease, affects about 7.5 million people in the United States.

What Is Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a disease that causes plaques, which are itchy or sore patches of thick, red, dry skin.

While any part of your body can be affected, psoriasis plaques most often occurs on the elbows, knees, scalp, back, face, palms, and feet.

Like other autoimmune diseases, psoriasis occurs when your immune system — which normally attacks infectious germs — begins to attack healthy cells instead.

Who Gets Psoriasis?

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, about 7.5 million people in the United States have psoriasis, with the disease affecting Caucasians more than any other race.

The disease occurs about equally among men and women.

People with psoriasis generally see their first symptoms between 15 and 30 years of age; however, developing the disease between 50 and 60 years of age is also common.

Psoriasis Flares

Psoriasis patches can range from a few spots of dandruff-like scaling to major eruptions that cover large areas.

For some, psoriasis can clear up for months or even years at a time. This is known as remission.

Others experience psoriasis flares (or flare ups) in cyclical patterns; for instance, the disease will improve in the summer and worsen in the winter.

Psoriasis Triggers

Psoriasis flares can be triggered by:

Stress: Stress is a major trigger for some people with psoriasis, either causing psoriasis to flare up for the first time or to make it worse after you’ve been diagnosed.

According to the National Psoriasis Foundation, a study of people who used light therapy for psoriasis found that listening to relaxation tapes during the therapy may help clear a psoriasis flare faster.

Cold weather: A trip to the Caribbean might be a good idea during the winter months if you have psoriasis and live in a cold climate, because the sun’s ultraviolet light turns off the skin’s immune system, which is overactive in people with psoriasis.

Dry skin: Anything that injures the skin can cause a psoriasis flare, including excessively dry skin.

The solution: Keep your skin moisturized. If you’re allergic to the fragrances in moisturizers, use a product that’s fragrance-free to avoid a rash.

Vaccinations: As with dry skin, puncturing the skin during a vaccination may cause a psoriasis flare, but that’s no reason to skip a needed shot.

One thing to keep in mind: If you’re on a potent psoriasis medication that suppresses your immune system (such as a biologic treatment), you shouldn’t take a live vaccine. Your body may not be able to fight off a live virus because of the medication you’re taking.

In that case, ask your doctor for a vaccine that contains a deactivated virus.

Beta blockers and lithium: Beta blockers to treat high blood pressure or lithium for a mental disorder can make psoriasis worse.

If you have high blood pressure, your doctor may be able to switch your medication to another drug that won’t affect your psoriasis.

If you’re taking lithium, your dermatologist may consider having you try light treatment or a topical therapy for psoriasis.

Upper-respiratory infections: Colds and other infections, especially strep throat, activate the immune system and can cause psoriasis to flare.

If you have psoriasis and develop a sore throat, get it treated and be sure to have a culture taken to check for strep. Long-term antibiotics may be an option for someone who has psoriasis and frequent sore throats.

Smoking: There’s some evidence that smoking can make psoriasis worse.

Diet: Studies haven’t shown any beneficial effects of taking nutritional supplements for psoriasis, but avoiding certain foods may reduce inflammation and help your psoriasis.

Additionally, studies have shown that many people with psoriasis may also have a gluten sensitivity, and eating a gluten-free diet can help reduce psoriasis symptoms.

In general, if you find that a certain food makes your psoriasis worse, try to avoid it.

Alcohol: For some people with psoriasis, having more than one or two drinks a day has been shown to cause psoriasis flares but the association is not a strong one. Flares from alcohol use could also be linked to psychological stress.

Types of Psoriasis

There are five types of psoriasis, yet people most often have only one type of psoriasis at a time. Each type has its own set of symptoms.

Most types of psoriasis go through cycles, flaring for a few weeks or months, then subsiding for a time or even going into complete remission.

Plaque psoriasis (also called psoriasis vulgarism) is the most common form. It appears as raised, red patches covered with a silvery white buildup of dead skin cells or scale.

The itchy, painful patches can crack and bleed, and commonly affect the scalp, knees, elbows, and lower back.

Gutted psoriasis often begins in childhood or young adulthood and is the second most common type of psoriasis.

Nearly 10 percent of people who get psoriasis develop gutted psoriasis, reports the National Psoriasis Foundation (N PF).

Inverse psoriasis, also known as vertiginous psoriasis, causes red lesions in folds of the body that may look smooth and shiny.

These lesions can occur on the genitals or areas near the genitals like the upper thighs and groin.

It's common for people with inverse psoriasis to have another type of psoriasis somewhere else on their body at the same time.

Pustular psoriasis causes white blisters of pus that surround red skin. The pus consists of white blood cells.

When pus-filled bumps cover the body, you may have bright-red skin and feel ill, exhausted, have a fever, chills, severe itching, rapid pulse, loss of appetite, or muscle weakness.

Erythrodermic psoriasis is a dangerous and rare form of the disease characterized by a widespread, fiery redness and exfoliation of the skin that causes severe itching and pain.

It's not as difficult as you think. Learn how to pick the perfect color, formula, and shades, and master tips to get the results you want.

How to Create a Spa Experience at Home

With just a little bit of planning, it’s possible to recreate the spa experience at home. Dorie Byers, a registered nurse in Indianapolis and author of Natural Beauty Basics (Vital Health Publishing) and Herbal Remedy Gardens (Stormy Books), recommends the following essentials for the perfect at-home spa treatment.
Set the Mood With Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy is the use of essential plant oils to boost your physical and psychological well-being. To get started, just take a few drops of an essential oil and mix it with a few tablespoons of a neutral oil base (see below for choices). Rub a little on dry skin.
To create a beautiful scent in a room, place a few drops of an undiluted essential oil on a cotton ball and put the cotton ball on a plate or coaster, taking care not to get any oil on the furniture.
Choose the Right Essential Oil – and Put on Some Music

Lavender is a good essential oil to try first, Byers says: “It’s so relaxing, it’s readily available, and it’s amenable to most skin types.”
Whatever you choose, invest in a natural essential oil, not a synthetic one, which doesn’t have the same soothing or stimulating effect, says Byers. An artificial oil might be labeled “fragrance oil” and be available in offbeat scents such as “summer rain” or “baby powder.” “Some of them may be okay, but they just smell like chemicals to me,” Byers adds.
Byers recommends using a neutral, light oil like almond oil as a base. Other plant oils such as jojoba and avocado will work, too. Olive oil will do, but its strong aroma may compete with your essential oil, she warns.
As for cost, she says, “A bottle of any essential oil may cost a bit more than you might think, but when you’re using an essential oil by the drop, those bottles last forever.”
Once you’ve chosen your ideal scent, it’s time to pick the right soothing music. Byers recommends giving a simple instrumental a try.
Start With a Facial
Byers isn’t a fan of opening your pores by placing your face over a bowl of steam because of the risk of it being too hot. Instead, she recommends saturating a small towel with warm water and placing the towel gently on your face.
Afterward, cleanse with a gentle soap. For all skin types, lightly ground regular oatmeal makes a soothing and gentle scrub. A simple astringent will tighten the pores; Byers recommends witch hazel or, for those with oily skin, head to your pantry for some apple cider vinegar or lemon juice, either of which complements the skin’s natural acid balance. You might want to take advantage of rosemary’s natural astringent qualities by steeping a bit of the herb in the vinegar or juice or in some warm water that you allow to cool, and applying that aprons-facial.
Baby Your Body
For neck-down beauty, Byers recommends these home spa treatments:
Scrub-a-dub. Mix a few drops of essential oil with your base oil and add it to your bath. Or turn again to oatmeal, Byers suggests. Place some lightly ground oatmeal in cheesecloth or in a clean sock (to preserve your plumbing), and dangle the pouch under the spigot as you draw your bath. The oatmeal pouch then makes a wonderful skin scrubber.
Foot therapy. Soak your feet in a basin of water to which you’ve added 2 to 4 tablespoons of non-iodized or sea salt and a few drops of the essential oil of your choice — rosemary and peppermint are especially deodorizing, Byers says. Afterward, use some homemade foot powder made from a few drops of peppermint added to baking powder. Not only are both ingredients odor fighters, the peppermint evaporates quickly and is cooling, Byers says.
Now, relax. If you’re not already in the mood, just consider how much time and money you’ve saved by opting for the do-it-yourself route.

It's not as difficult as you think. Learn how to pick the perfect color, formula, and shades, and master tips to get the results you want.

How to Dye Your Own Hair

The bewildering array of hair dye choices that you see on pharmacy and grocery store shelves has been developed to help ensure that you get exactly the right product for the hair you have and the effect you’re seeking. But you have to know how to choose.

“The first step is to decide what you want to accomplish,” says Marcy Conan, creative director for color and style at Clairol:

• Subtle change or coverage of gray. Go with a semi-permanent color, recommends Conan. Semi-permanent color “sits” on top of the hair and will gradually wash out in about six weeks. And because the color changes over time, new growth at the roots is less visible than with permanent color.
• Lightening for more dramatic change. To change the color of your hair with hair dye, you want to look for permanent color. Permanent color typically contains peroxide and penetrates the hair follicle itself, Conan says. Because permanent color does not wash out after repeated shampooing, the difference between dyed and underfed hair will be more noticeable when there’s new growth at the roots than with semi-permanent color.
• Accent. Look for products that create highlights.

Choosing a Hair Dye Color

Your next step is to pick a shade of hair dye. The art and science of hair color selection have been vastly improved in recent years with a wider choice of dyes and sophisticated color charts to help you find just the right shade. Heed the product advice on the box and on the insert of any given hair dye, advises Conan.

If you can't find a product that promises a certain color given your original shade, adjust your expectations accordingly. Pick another color; do not use a hair dye that is not recommended with your natural hair color. Using a color that is not recommended almost certainly will result in a color you don't expect (or want), Conan says.

As a rule, don’t shampoo your hair before coloring. Shampoo will strip out protective oils you want when you are coloring your hair. At the same time, it’s best not to have an excess of styling products in your hair when you color it. One option is to wash your hair the day before you’re planning to use hair dye and let it dry naturally, skipping all the hair products you would typically use.

Have the Right Tools Assembled

Besides those inside the box, Conan recommends these extras:

• A wide-tooth comb for pulling the color through your hair
• Re-moistened wipes to catch any dye that drips from the hairline
• An old button-up shirt that will protect the skin on your neck and shoulders from any excess dye

The Step-by-Step Process of Dyeing Your Hair

The first step in the product directions will be to do a patch test. Don’t skip this task, even if you have colored your hair before with the same product. Sensitivities can develop over time, and it’s better to take a few minutes before coloring to ensure you won’t react to the product.

Again, follow the product directions scrupulously. Note the time elapsed when you rinse your hair and adjust accordingly, if needed, the next time you apply color.

When you're done, you'll likely have some hair dye left over. Do not re-cap the bottle — it could burst under pressure. While you'll be tempted to toss excess dye in the trash or pour it down the sink, that's not a sound choice. Hair dye often is considered a household hazardous waste, so check with your local government to see if it has a program that will dispose of it properly.

Using shampoos and conditioners specifically for color-treated hair will help the color last longer and keep hair healthy-looking. Seek out products specifically engineered for your color and hair type.

With a little bit of practice and time, you’ll be able to create a professional-looking color treatment that fits into almost any budget.

Colored contact lenses can change eye color or enhance what you already have. But be careful to get the right fit and choose reputable brands.

A Buyer's Guide to Colored Contact Lenses

Contact lenses can correct many vision problems and allow you to ditch the glasses. But these small, plastic disks can also be used to change the color of your iris and give you a whole new look.

There are many styles of colored contacts to choose from, depending on how much of a change you’re looking for:

• Subtle. These enhance your natural eye color, usually deepening or adding vibrancy.
• Color-changing. These lenses give your iris the appearance of a totally different color, and can work on even the darkest eye colors.
• Light filtering. Athletes like this type because these lenses improve color vision, such as brightening the color of the ball during a tennis match.
• “Party” lenses. These lenses completely change the iris or even the whole eye, to another, often unnatural, color or pattern. Typically used in movies and for other theatrical uses.

Use FDA-Approved Contacts Only, Please

Contact lenses worn for cosmetic purposes must be fitted by an eye care professional. In the fall of 2005, the U.S. Congress enacted legislation that declared colored contact lenses to be medical devices — making it illegal to sell non-prescription colored lenses.

Thomas Steinem, MD, a spokesman for the American Academy of Ophthalmology, says you should be wary of lenses you can get without a prescription: “How do you know if they’re sterile, if they’re approved by the FDA, or if they’re damaged?”

“Anyone getting colored lenses has to have their eyes professionally measured and the lenses correctly fitted,” Dr. Steinem says. “And a follow-up eye examination must be carried out to assess whether the patient is having any trouble using the lenses or if there is any eye damage.” Why? “Because even though colored contact lenses may not correct vision, they still have the same potential to cause harm,” he explains.

Possible issues with contact lenses include allergic reactions, accumulation of protein on the lenses, and eye irritation due to improper lens care. If contact lenses are not properly stored and disinfected, frequent eye infections, scarring, and even blindness, can occur.

Follow the Recommended Lens-Wearing Schedule

Most eye doctors recommend that users wear contact lenses for just a few hours a day during the first few days. Even if you are wearing colored contacts cosmetically, you should try out lenses for only a short period at first to make sure your eyes do not become overly irritated.

It’s normal for eyes to feel slightly itchy or teary when you first put lenses in, but this should improve with wear. If eyes become red or painful, or your vision is foggy or cloudy, the lenses should be removed immediately. If the problem continues, return to your eye doctor to assess the problem.

Care and Maintenance of Colored Contacts

The care and use of colored contacts is the same as for normal contact lenses. Basic contact lens hygiene tips include:

• Always wash and rinse your hands with a mild soap before handling lenses.
• Clean and rinse lenses with, and only with, an approved sterile solution after taking them out and before putting them in. Don’t use tap or even bottled water since they aren’t sterile and have been linked to severe bacterial eye infections.
• Keep fingernails short and smooth to avoid scratching your lenses.
• Make sure your lens case is always clean.
• Inspect lenses for any foreign particles, tears, or damage before inserting.
• Apply cosmetics after inserting lenses.
• Don’t wear soft lenses when swimming.
• The only eye drops that can safely be used with soft contact lenses are re-wetting drops that your eye doctor recommends.

Even if you don’t wear your colored lenses on a regular basis, you still need to clean and place them in new solution every month. And remember to disinfect the lenses 24 hours before wearing them.

How Much Do Colored Contacts Cost?

The cost of colored contacts depends on a few factors, starting with where you buy them, either from your eye doctor or on Internet that request a prescription before you can make a purchase. Cost also varies according to the brand, how often the lenses need to be replaced (which can vary from daily to once a month), and whether the lenses are colored only or corrective, too.

Lenses that are a basic, single color are often less expensive than those ones with an advanced mix of shades to produce a vivid effect or a more natural appearance when covering up dark irises. In general, prices start at around $10 for a disposable pair; for two-week disposables, that would add up to $260 per year; for monthly disposables, it would be closer to $120 per year.

The bottom line is that if you are properly fitted for the lenses and follow the simple care instructions, a fun, new look can be yours in a matter of minutes.

Lightweight mineral makeup gives skin a natural glow as it conceals those little imperfections. Find out more.

The Beauty of Mineral Makeup

Mineral makeup has become popular for many reasons: It's Eco-friendly, looks good, and feels light on the face. And because TV infomercials and the celebrities who use and recommend it, mineral makeup has gotten a lot of media attention.

“Mineral makeup has been around for 30 years or more, but has recently regained popularity in the cosmetics industry,” says Scott Gerri sh, MD, of Gerri sh and Associates, PC, a nonsurgical skin care specialist with offices in Virginia and Maryland. “Mineral makeup was originally used by plastic surgeons and dermatologists on patients after cosmetic procedures to cover the redness and soreness.”

Is mineral makeup right for you? Read on to find out.

The Magic Behind Mineral Makeup

Mineral makeup is made from pure, crushed minerals and will not cake on the skin: It allows the skin to breathe and gives you a lighter, more natural look than traditional makeup. “Mineral makeup comes in powdered, pressed, and liquid forms and has beneficial properties for your skin,” says Helga Surat, President of About Faces Day Spa & Salon, in Tow son, Md.

It is ideal for all skin types, all skin tones, and women of all ages. Mineral makeup looks great, feels great, and helps to bring out your natural glow. “But take care to read the labels and make sure you're getting pure mineral makeup,” Surat says.

Why Mineral Makeup May Be Better

• Mineral makeup won’t clog pores or irritate. As Pam Messy of Mary Kay Cosmetics in Wings Mills, Md., says, “Regular makeup contains artificial chemicals or preservatives, whereas true mineral makeup does not. Mineral makeup is hypoallergenic and usually safe to use on any skin.” It's also free of oil, talc, perfume, dyes, alcohol, and other potentially irritating and Domenico, or pore-clogging, ingredients, Surat says.
• Mineral makeup ingredients can soothe skin. What it does contain are natural anti-inflammatory ingredients, such as zinc and titanium oxides, which help calm the skin when it's irritated. These ingredients also offer protection from OVA, U VB, and infrared sun rays. “Read the label, as you want at least an SPF of 15,” Surat says.
• Mineral makeup acts as a great concealer. Need to hide imperfections? Mineral makeup is lightweight and conceals, corrects, and covers pigmentation and lines on your face while still allowing your skin to breathe. “It offers skin-enhancing benefits. It smoothed the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, conceals bitchiness, and improves the appearance of skin with acne or Cesaro,” Gerri sh says. Mineral makeup doesn't need many touch-ups because it has water-resistant qualities that provide long-lasting coverage, another plus.

“Pure mineral makeup is so harmless you can almost sleep in it,” says Messy, “though I always recommend removing all makeup before going to bed, and applying a good moisturizer.”

While no form of makeup is perfect, mineral makeup products can help you avoid harsh preservatives and chemicals while hiding those fine lines and little flaws. You may never go back to regular makeup because of the way mineral makeup looks and feels on your face.

Give yourself a professional-looking manicure with these beauty care basics.

Do-It-Yourself Manicures at Home

The advantages of giving yourself a manicure at home include saving money — up to $20 or more depending on the salon — and saving time because you don’t have to wait your turn or make an appointment. And, of course, the most important reason: A good manicure keeps your hands soft, smooth, and well-groomed.

10 Steps to a Master Manicure

1. Start with clean nails. Carefully remove all traces of existing nail polish with cotton balls or pads and nail polish remover. A non-acetone remover is gentle on your nails, but can take a little longer to work, according to Helga Surat, President of About Faces Day Spa & Salon in Tow son, Md.

2. Shape your nails with a file. Make sure your nails are dry; then use a fine-surfaced file to shape each nail. .There are three basic nail shapes: square, round, and oval. Oval nails looks best on most people, but for those who do a lot of work with their hands, keeping the nails short and square will help avoid breakage. File your nails from the corner to the center, first left to right and then from right to left. File in one direction only, not in a back-and-forth sawing motion

3. Treat hands to a soothing soak. Soak your hands for 5 to 10 minutes in a bowl of warm, soapy water to soften dry skin and rough cuticles. After soaking, dry your hands, apply a hand cream, and put on cotton manicure gloves. Leave them on for 10 to 15 minutes.

4. Dry hands thoroughly. Use a clean washcloth to pat the hands dry. Lightly rub the cuticle of each finger with the edge of the towel.

5. Treat cuticles with tenderness. Gently push back the cuticle of each nail with an orange wood stick. “Never cut your cuticles, as this can lead to infection, inflammation, and pain,” says Surat. “That is the number one manicure mistake that even professionals make.”

6. Clean under the nails. Use the pointy end of the orange wood stick to remove dirt and oil.

7. Lather on lotion. Next, apply a hand lotion and massage it into your skin. Surat suggests a moisturizer with reactants, which attract moisture to your skin and help lock it in — look for that word on product labels when you shop for your home manicure beauty aids.

8. Prep nails for polish. “Next, thoroughly wash nails so that no oil remains to interfere with nail polish adhering to nails,” says Pam Messy of Mary Kay Cosmetics. Pat your hands dry. This is the key secret to a longer-lasting manicure.

9. Remove every trace of oil. As a second cleansing step, Messy suggests that before polishing your nails, you clean them with an orange stick that has been wrapped and dipped in nail polish remover. “Rub it over the surface of each nail to ensure you have removed all oil from your nails,” she explains.

10. Try the 3-stroke polish plan. Polish each nail in three strokes, one stroke down the center and the other two strokes on each side of the nail. Let the first coat dry for three to five minutes, depending on the thickness of the polish, then apply a second coat. Finally, finish your manicure by applying a clear topcoat to make your nail polish last longer.

Treat yourself to a manicure weekly to keep your hands looking beautiful, healthier, and younger.

Take a fresh look at your skin and trade up to cosmetics that flatter your changing complexion.

Making the Switch to Anti-Aging Makeup

As your skin matures, its needs change, and your makeup needs change right along with it. The oiliness of younger years might disappear, calling for a switch to richer, anti-aging formulas made for dry or mature skin. Fortunately, there are cosmetics available for every type of skin; all you have to do is be aware of how your skin has changed.

“You should re-evaluate your choice of makeup every five years,” says Helga Surat, president of About Faces Day Spa & Salon in Tow son, Md. “Little by little, skin loses that youthful plumpness and clarity as we become older. Pores become more noticeable.”

Anti-Aging Makeup Advice

Keep these tips in mind as you update your makeup:

Foundations and Powders

• Apply a light-diffusing primer before applying an anti-aging foundation.
• “Mature skin is often drier, so use a creamy foundation that can moisturize your skin, and not settle in fine lines,” according to Pam Messy of Mary Kay Cosmetics. Look for formulas that include SPF (sun protection factor) to avoid daily sun damage, your best anti-aging defense.
• Use a slightly thicker concealer with a yellow undertone to hide age or sunspots and cover red, splotchy areas — but always apply in thin coats, two if necessary, rather than one heavy one.
• Lightly dust a moisturizing pressed powder over your entire face. If you have combination skin, use a loose powder with large brush on your T-zone, forehead, and nose and chin area that may still be on the oily side.

Eye Makeup

• Use a light-diffusing eyelid primer before applying eye shadow.
• Choose cream shadows in soft colors with matte formulas; avoid shimmering shadows with particles that can settle in fine lines and create an aging effect.
• Choose powder-infused eyeliner in soft colors. Avoid blacks and dark shades that can draw attention to dark circles and under-eye bags.
• “Buy a brown, brownish-black, or soft-black mascara with a double-tapered brush to achieve the look of fuller lashes,” Surat suggests.
• The skin under your eyes is very thin and sensitive, so pat, don’t rub, when applying cosmetics in this area.

Eyebrow Makeup

• “Brunettes should choose an eyebrow pencil in medium to dark brown and blondes or redheads should select a light brown color, with a tip you can sharpen,” says Messy.
• If you have thinning eyebrows, use an eyebrow pencil or eyebrow powder, with gentle, short strokes from the inner corner of the eyes to the outer edges.

Blush

• Use a moisturizing pink or peach powder blush on your cheeks; brush up and out for an anti-aging effect, toward the hairline near your temples.

Lipstick & Gloss

• “A lip moisturizer with a sunscreen is the best way to protect the thin skin of your lips from sun damage,” according to Surat.
• Select creamy, moisturizing lipsticks. A lip-gloss adds a moist finish as well. Avoid matte textures, which can dry lips.
• Use lip liner only on special occasions and choose a color that is very close to your lipstick color. Always blend the edges; it should never be visible as a distinct line.
• Select natural colors like nudes and soft pinks or peaches. Stay away from darker colors, which can make your lips look thinner and older.

Have fun and experiment as you take a fresh look at your cosmetics. With so many rich formulas to choose from, the only hard part will be narrowing down your options.