WHAT IA ALLERGY?

An allergy refers to an exaggerated reaction by the immune system in response to exposure to certain foreign substances. The response is exaggerated because these foreign substances are normally seen by the body as harmless in nonallergic individuals and do not cause a response in them. In allergic individuals, the body recognizes the foreign substance, and the allergic part of the immune system generates a response.

Allergy-producing substances are called "allergens." Examples of allergens include pollens, dust mites, molds, animal proteins, foods, and medications. When an allergic individual comes in contact with an allergen, the immune system mounts a response through the IgE antibody. People who are prone to allergies are said to be allergic or "atopic.

For allergy treatments and testing  call  9004839333.Clinics at Malad,Juhu and Bandra in Mumbai.

ALL ABOUT ACNES

Acne is a chronic inflammatory disease of the pilo sebaceous follicles (i.e. Hair with oil producing glands attached to hair) characterized by comedones (blackheads and whiteheads), papules, pustules, nodules and ultimately leading to scars.

Who gets Acne?
Close to 100% of people between the ages of twelve and seventeen have at least an occasional whitehead, blackhead or pimple regardless of race or ethnicity. Acne starts between the ages of ten and fifteen years of age and usually lasts till twenty years of age; however, acne can persist into the late twenties or thirties or even beyond. Some people get acne for the first time as adults and this is known as adult acne.

What are the causes of Acne?

Bacteria: Bacteria that normally lives on the skin plays a role in acne development. The bacteria are known as propionibacterium acnes (p. acnes). The bacteria content can increase in people whose faces are not clean.

Hormones: During the teen years increased levels of sex hormones causes the oil glands of the skin to produce increased amount of oil. These excess skin oils tend to bind with cellular debris causing a blockage and producing a fertile environment for the bacteria to grow.

The bacteria causes inflammation, pus, swelling and redness. In adult acne, excessive hormones produced due to polycystic ovaries and other hormonal imbalances causing excess oil production and inflammation, which leads to acne.

What are the factors that precipitate or aggravate acne?

Stress- Stress is frequently implicated in aggravation of acne while acne itself induces stress.
Sweat- Sweating in a hot and humid environment causes deterioration in 15% of acne patients.
Menstruation- Pre menstrual flare of acne occurs in 70% of female acne patients.
Friction and pressure- Friction and pressure from helmets, backpacks and tight collars can induce blackheads and papules. Pressure from face massages or facials can aggravate acne.
Pregnancy- Pregnancy has an unpredictable effect on acne. Pre-existing acne may aggravate or remit during pregnancy.
Diet- High glycemic load foods (sugar loaded and starchy foods), oily foods may aggravate acne.
Drugs- Oral contraceptives, anti tuberculosis medication, oral steroids, anti depressants may aggravate acne. 

It is advisable to visit a board certified dermatologist for treatment of acnes instead of over the counter treatment as the dermatologist treats the root cause of acne.For appointments call 9004839333 to our clinics at Malad,Juhu and Bandra  in Mumbai for all skin,hair and nail ailments.

CUCUMBER -A SUPER ANTI AGEING FOOD

Vegetables are wonderful for maintaining healthy skin
10 reasons why you should include cucumber to your diet

Cucumbers are said to have the following benefits: potential antidiabetic, antioxidant activity, cleansing action of toxins and waste, soothing effect against skin irritation, and prevention of constipation. And here are 10 health benefits of cucumbers in more details.

1. Help you stay hydrated

Cucumbers are 95.2 percent water, which means that a 5-ounce serving contains 4.8 ounces or 150 ml water. That’s already about 26 percent of your daily water intake through food.

2. Support heart health

Cucumbers contain potassium (152mg per cup), which can help lower blood pressure. A review of the best studies conducted on potassium intake showed that a higher intake “is associated with lower rates of stroke and might also reduce the risk of total cardiovascular disease.”

3. Protect your brain from neurological diseases

An anti-inflammatory substance called fisetin is present in cucumbers, as well as strawberries  and grapes

 It has recently been suggested that fisetin plays an important role in brain health: It would have “the ability to reduce the impact of age-related neurological diseases on brain function,” and it would also help maintain cognitive function in people with Alzeimer’s disease.

4. Protect your skin against the effects of aging

There is a reason why cucumbers are used in skin care: They have been shown to be effective as a potential anti-wrinkle agent in cosmetic products, protecting our skin form the effects of aging.

5. Fight inflammation in the body and reduce the risk of Cancer.

Cucumbers can help lower the inflammatory response in the body. They contain polyphenols called lignans, which can potentially reduce the risk of certain cancers and cardiovascular diseases.

They also contain plant nutrients called cucurbitacins, which have anti-cancer properties: “Scientists have already determined that several different signaling pathways required for cancer cell development and survival can be blocked by activity of cucurbitacins.”

6. Relieve Pain

Flavonoids, which are anti-inflammatory substances, and tannins in cucumbers have both been shown to limit the release of free radicals in the body and to reduce pain.

As explained in the Journal of Young Pharmacists, “traditionally, this plant is used for headaches; the seeds are cooling and diuretic, the fruit juice is used as a nutritive and as a demulcent in anti-acne  lotions.”

7. Reduce bad breath

Bad breath  is usually caused by bacteria in the mouth. Fiber and water-rich vegetables  like cucumbers can boost your mouth’s saliva production, which in turn helps wash away the bacteria that cause the odor in the mouth.

8. Protect your bones

Cucumber are a good source of vitamin K: One cup contains 22 percent of the recommended daily intake of vitamin K. This vitamin is essential for bone health, as low vitamin K intakes have been associated with a higher risk for bone fracture. Vitamin K is also important for improving calcium absorption in the bones

9. Prevent constipation

Cucumbers are rich in water, and their skin contains insoluble fiber. Both water and fiber help food to move through the digestive tract quicker and more easily, helping prevent constipation.

10. Maintain a healthy weight

Cucumbers are very low in calories (16 calories per cup) and they also contain fiber in the skin. And foods that contain fiber can help maintain a healthy weight

For appointments Call 9004839333.Clinics at Malad,Juhu and Bandra in Mumbai

SYMPTOMS OF PIMPLES

There are several different types of pimples and they have different signs and symptoms:

§  Whiteheads - also known as a closed comedo. These are very small and remain under the skin, appearing as a small, flesh-colored papules.

§  Blackheads - also known as an open comedo. These are clearly visible on the surface of the skin and are black or dark brown due to the oxidation of melanin, the skin's pigment. Some people mistakenly believe they are caused by dirt, because of their color, and scrub their faces vigorously - this does not help and may irritate the skin and cause other problems.

§  Papules - these are small, solid, rounded bumps that rise from the skin. The bumps are often pink.

§  Pustules - these are pimples full of pus. They are clearly visible on the surface of the skin. The base is red and the pus is on the top.

§  Nodules - these are morphologically similar (similar structure) to papules, but larger. They can be painful and are embedded deep in the skin.

§  Cysts - these are clearly visible on the surface of the skin. They are filled with pus and are usually painful. Cysts commonly cause scars.

It is advisable to visit a dermatologist instead of taking over the counter medicines for pimples.For appointments call 9004839333 at our clinics at Malad,Juhu and Bandra.

CAUSES OF NAIL INFECTION

There are many different causes of fungal nail infections, and each cause has a treatment of its own. Although many of the causes of a fungal nail infection are preventable, some risk factors increase the likelihood of developing it. You’re more likely to develop a fungal nail infection if you:

• have diabetes
• have a disease that causes poor circulation
• are over age 65
• wear artificial nails
• swim in a public swimming pool
• have a nail injury
• have a skin injury around the nail
• have moist fingers or toes for an extended time
• have a weakened immune system
• wear closed-toe shoes, such as tennis shoes or boots.
• Nail infections occur more often in men than in women, and the infections are found in adults more often than in children. If you have family members who often get these types of fungal infections, you’re more likely to get them as well. Older adults are at the highest risk for getting fungal infections of the nails because they have poorer circulation and their nails grow more slowly and thicken as they age.Visit our clinics at Malad,Juhu and Bandra for all skin,hair and nail ailments.Call 9004839333 for appointments.

SYMPTOMS OF PSORIASIS

Psoriasis symptoms differ from person to person and depend on the type of psoriasis. Areas of psoriasis can be as small as a few flakes on the scalp or elbow, or cover the majority of the body.

The most common symptoms of plaque psoriasis include:

• red, raised, inflamed patches of skin
• silver-white scales or plaques on the red patches
• dry skin that may crack and bleed
• soreness around patches
• itching and burning sensations around patches
• thick, pitted nails
• painful, swollen joints

Not every person will experience all of these symptoms. Some people will experience entirely different symptoms if they have a less common type of psoriasis.Early diagnosis helps a lot.For appointments call 9004839333.Clinics at Malad,Juhu and Bandra in Mumbai.

HIV

AIDS (Acquired immune deficiency syndrome or acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) is a syndrome caused by a virus called HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus). The illness alters the immune system, making people much more vulnerable to infections and diseases. This susceptibility worsens as the syndrome progresses.

HIV is found in the body fluids of an infected person (semen and vaginal fluids, blood and breast milk). The virus is passed from one person to another through blood-to-blood and sexual contact. In addition, infected pregnant women can pass HIV to their babies during pregnancy, delivering the baby during childbirth, and through breast feeding.

HIV can be transmitted in many ways, such as vaginal, oral sex, anal sex, blood transfusion, and contaminated hypodermic needles. Both the virus and the syndrome are often referred to together as HIV/AIDS. People with HIV have what is called HIV infection. As a result, some will then develop AIDS. The development of numerous opportunistic infections in an AIDS patient can ultimately lead to death. . Treatments can slow the course of the condition - some infected people can live a long and relatively healthy life.For treatments  call 9004839333.Clinics at Malad,Juhu and Bandra in MUmbai.

WHAT IS CHEMICAL PEEL?

A chemical peel is a technique used to improve the appearance of the skin on the face, neck or hands. A chemical solution is applied to the skin that causes it to exfoliate and eventually peel off. The new, regenerated skin is usually smoother and less wrinkled than the old skin. The new skin is also temporarily more sensitive to the sun. There are three basic types of chemical peels:

Superficial or lunchtime peel: Alpha-hydroxy acid or another mild acid is used to penetrate only the outer layer of skin to gently exfoliate it. The treatment is used to improve the appearance of mild skin discoloration and rough skin as well as to refresh the face, neck, chest or hands.

Medium peel: Glycolic or trichloroacetic acid is applied to penetrate the out and middle layers of skin to remove damaged skin cells. The treatment is used to improve age spots, fine lines and wrinkles, freckles and moderate skin discoloration. It also can be used to smooth rough skin and treat some precancerous skin growths, i.e. actinic keratosis.

Deep peel: Tricholoracetic acid or phenol is applied to deeply penetrate the middle layer of skin to remove damaged skin cells. The treatment removes moderate lines, age spots, freckles and shallow scars. Patients will see a dramatic improvement in skin appearance. 

It is advisable to get it done from a certified dermatologist.For appointments call 9004839333.Clinics at Malad,Juhu and Bandra in Mumbai. 

LIPOSUCTION

Liposuction removes fat from your body using suction. During liposuction, small, thin, blunt-tipped tubes (cannula) are inserted through tiny cuts in the skin. Fat is suctioned out through these tubes as the doctor moves the tubes around under the skin to target specific fat deposits.

In recent years, improved techniques have made liposuction safer, easier, and less painful. These newer techniques include:

Tumescent liposuction. A local anesthetic is used to numb the area of your body where the tube will be inserted.

Ultrasound assisted liposuction. This technique uses ultrasound to liquefy the fat, which makes it easier to remove. This technique may be particularly helpful in removing fat from the neck, upper abdomen, sides, and back.

Laser-assisted liposuction. This technique uses low-energy waves to liquefy the fat, which is removed through a small cannula.

Liposuction is usually done as an outpatient  procedure in a properly equipped doctor's office, ambulatory surgery center, or hospital. In general, it does not require an overnight hospital stay unless a large volume of fat is being removed. Local anesthesia is used in some cases. And you may or may not be given a sedative to help you relax. If a large area or volume of fat is being treated, general anesthesia or deep sedation with a local anesthetic may be used.So it is important to get it done by a certified Cosmetologist.For queries and appointments call 9004839333.Our clinics at Malad,Juhu and Bandra  in Mumbai.

FACTS ABOUT TATTOO REMOVAL

The first thing to realize about tattoos is that the ink is placed in the dermis, which is the deeper layer of the skin. The dermis is where all the connective tissue lies that make up the structure of your skin. It is also the layer of skin that leaves a scar if damaged. Superficial damage to your skin can typically heal with little or no residual mark. However, when the deeper layers of the skin are damaged, the tissue cannot repair itself without leaving a scar. This is an important point to consider before getting a tattoo.

Because the ink is deep in the skin, there is no cream or ointment that can get rid of a tattoo without leaving a scar. Although there are no shortage of websites claiming to remove your unwanted tattoo by applying their special cream or ointment, it is known none of it is effective. It is not possible to bleach the pigment down deep without damaging the skin at the surface. Chemical treatments or acids that claim to get rid of tattoos could only do so by leaving a significant scar, like a third degree burn.

Lasers tattoo removal works best. It can eliminate a tattoo by targeting the pigment. Since different lasers target different ink colors, they can more effectively blast the tiny ink fragments.. The blast and destruction of the ink triggers your immune system to come in and clean up the spots, carrying the ink with it. Because the laser targets only the color, it is able to treat the tattoo that is deep in your skin while leaving the surface of your skin undamaged. Professional tattoos tend to use a higher quality ink in higher quantities, which makes complete tattoo removal difficult. If you decide to remove your tattoo, then make an appointment with a board-certified dermatologist who has experience with laser tattoo removal. For appointments call 9004839333.Clinics at Malad,Juhu and Bandra in Mumbai.

WHAT CAUSES DARK CIRCLES?

Dark circles have a variety of different causes. And despite what some people think, fatigue isn’t one of them. Besides alcohol and lack of sleep, illnesses also cause these circles to appear. The combination of a fair complexion and thin skin if often the culprit.

Some of the more common causes of dark circles under the eyes include:

·         Heredity. Dark circles under the eyes can appear in childhood, and are often an inherited trait. Some children will outgrow them, but others will not.

·         Allergies. Nasal congestion can dilate the blood vessels that drain from the area around your eyes, causing them to darken.

·         Sleep deprivation is the most common cause. 

·         Oversleeping can also cause dark eye circles.

·         Eczema

·         Stress

·         As we get older, our skin becomes thinner.

·         Iron deficiency can prevent the blood from carrying sufficient oxygen to eye tissues.

·         Genetics is also a cause of dark circles.

For queries and appointments call 9004839333.Our Clinics at Malad,Juhu and Bandra in Mumbai

PREVENTING FUNGAL NAIL INFECTION

You can reduce your risk of developing a fungal nail infection by:

• keeping your hands and feet clean and dry
• wearing well-fitting shoes made of natural materials and clean cotton socks – these will allow your feet to "breathe"
• clipping your nails to keep them short – don't share clippers or scissors with other people
• not sharing towels and socks with other people, and ensure your towels are washed regularly
• not walking around barefoot in public pools, showers, and locker rooms – special shower shoes are available to protect your feet
• replacing old footwear that could be contaminated with fungi.
• Treating athlete’s foot as soon as possible to avoid the infection spreading to your nails

Nail salon equipment can sometimes be the source of fungal nail infections. If you regularly visit a salon, make sure any equipment used is properly sterilised between uses.

For queries and appointments call 9004839333.Clinics at Malad,Juhu and Bandra in Mumbai.

HOW STRESS EFFECTS YOUR SKIN?

Stress causes a chemical response in your body that makes skin more sensitive and reactive. It can also make it harder for skin problems to heal.For all skin,hair and nail problems visit our clinics at Malad,Juhu and Bandra .For appointments call 9004839333.

Have you ever noticed that when you are stressed, you break out more? This is because stress causes your body to produce cortisol and other hormones, which tells your sebaceous glands to produce more oil. Oily skin is more prone to acne and other skin problems

 Stress can also:

Worsen skin problems:For example, stress can worsen psoriasis, rosacea, and eczema. Stress can also cause hives and other types of skin rashes and trigger a flare-up of fever blisters.

Interfere with daily skin care: If you are stressed, you might skimp on your skin care, which can aggravate skin problems.

Skin problems can also be stressful. Some people are so embarrassed by their skin that they keep to themselves, which adds more stress, worsening the problem.

If you have a skin problem that doesn't heal or keeps coming back, rethink how you handle stress.

CAUSES OF DANDRUFF

The following are factors that may contribute to dandruff:

1) Not enough hair brushing

People who do not comb or brush their hair regularly have a slightly higher risk of having dandruff - this is because they are not aiding the shedding of skin that combing or brushing provides.

2) Yeast

 People who are sensitive to yeast have a slightly higher risk of having dandruff, so it is logical to assume that yeast may play a part.

3) Dry skin

People with dry skin tend to get dandruff more often. Winter cold air, combined with overheated rooms is a common cause of itchy, flaking skin. People with dandruff caused by dry skin tend to have small flakes of dandruff; the flakes are not oily.

4) Seborrheic dermatitis (irritated, oily skin)

People with seborrheic dermatitis are very prone to dandruff. Seborrheic dermatitis affects many areas of the skin, including the backs of the ears, the breastbone, eyebrows, and the sides of the nose, not just the scalp. The patient will have red, greasy skin covered with flaky white or yellow scales.

5) Not enough shampooing

It is said that if you don't shampoo enough there can be a buildup of oil and dead skin cells, causing dandruff.

6) Reaction to hair or skin care products

Some people react to some hair care products with a red, itchy, scaling scalp. Many experts say that shampooing too often may cause dandruff as it can irritate the scalp.

7) Mental stress

Experts believe there may be a link between stress and other skin problems.

Most of the people buy on the counter anti dandruff shampoos without consulting the doctor which can further aggrevate the problem.So contact your nearest dermatologist.For our appointments call 9004839333.Our clinics at Malad,Juhu and Bandra in Mumbai.

WHEN TO SHAMPOO YOUR HAIR?

No matter how frequently you shampoo, your scalp produces the same amount of oil. Cutting back on shampooing will have no effect on your sebaceous glands; genetics and hormones determine the amount of oil they produce. But it will cause dirt and oil to accumulate on your scalp and hair follicles, and could cause inflammation and irritation that might stunt hair growth. How often you wash your hair is a personal decision. Wash your hair with a moisturizing shampoo when you feel you need it, whether that’s daily or weekly. Or if you like making shampoo mohawks.

For queries and appointments call 9004839333.Clinics at  Malad,Juhu and Bandra in Mumbai.

NAIL INFECTION

Fungal infections can affect any part of the body. Fungi are normally present in and on the body alongside various bacteria. When a fungus begins to overgrow, you can get an infection.

Onychomycosis, also called tinea unguium, is a fungal infection that affects either the fingernails or toenails. Fungal infections normally develop over time, so any immediate difference in the way your nail looks or feels may be too subtle to notice at first.

Why Does It Develop?

A fungal nail infection occurs from the overgrowth of fungi in, under, or on the nail. Fungi thrive in warm, moist environments, so this type of environment can cause them to naturally overpopulate. The same fungi that cause jock itch, athlete’s foot, and ringworm can cause nail infections.

Fungi that are already present in or on your body can cause nail infections. If you have come in contact with someone else who has a fungal infection, it may have spread to you. Fungal infections affect toenails more commonly than fingernails because toes are usually confined to shoes, where they’re in a warm, moist environment.

If you get a manicure or pedicure at a nail salon, be sure to ask how the staff disinfects their tools and how often they do it. Tools, such as emery boards and nail clippers, can spread fungal infections from person-to-person if they’re not sanitized.

For queries and appointments call 9004839333.Clinics at Malad,Juhu and Bandra.

WHAT DOES A DERMATOLOGIST DO?

A dermatologist is a doctor who specializes in treating the:

• Skin.
• Hair.
• Nails.
• Mucous membranes (e.g., lining inside the mouth, nose, and eyelids.)

Dermatologists diagnose and treat more than 3,000 different diseases. These diseases include skin cancer, eczema, acne, psoriasis, and nail infections.

Dermatologists also improve the appearance of their patients' skin, hair, and nails. For example, a dermatologist can help patients:

• Diminish wrinkles, age spots, and other signs of aging.
• Have less noticeable acne scars.
• Look more like themselves after surgery to remove skin cancer.

Dermatologists see patients of all ages — from newborns to people older than 100 years of age. Many patients read on internet and apply medicines without consulting dermatologist which aggravates problems and leads more damage to skin,hair and nails.So it is advisable to visit a qualified dermatologist before using any medicine.

For queries and appointments call 9004839333,clinics at Malad,Juhu and Bandra.

CAUSES OF ECZEMA

Causes of eczema

The specific cause of eczema remains unknown, but it is believed to develop due to a combination of hereditary (genetic) and environmental factors.

Children are more likely to develop eczema if a parent has had it or another atopic disease. If both parents have an atopic disease, the chances increase further.

Environmental factors are also known to bring out the symptoms of eczema. These include:

§  Irritants - soaps, detergents, shampoos, disinfectants, juices from fresh fruits, meats, or vegetables

§  Allergens - dust mites, pets, pollens, mold, dandruff

§   Microbes - bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus,viruses, certain fungi

§  Hot and cold temperatures - hot weather, high and low humidity, perspiration from exercise

§  Foods - dairy products, eggs, nuts and seeds, soy products, wheat

§  Stress - it is not a cause of eczema but can make symptoms worse

§  Hormones - women can experience worsening of eczema symptoms at times when their hormone levels are changing, for example during pregnancy and at certain points in their menstrual cycle.

For more information visit our clinics at Malad,Juhu and Bandra for all skin,hair and nail ailments.Call 9004839333.

PREPARATION FOR PLAYING HOLI

Checklist:

Must-haves before Holi:

A bottle of oil (Coconut/ Sesame/ Mustard/ Olive)
Nail Polish (Colored or clear)
Petroleum Jelly (Vaseline)
Pair of spectacles, no contact lenses please
Protect your skin and hair

It is extremely important to apply at least two generous layer of oil to your hair and scalp, face, neck, shoulders, arms, legs and any exposed area of your body, especially the insides of your ears and navel, and the area between fingers and toes. Make sure you moisturize your lips as well. I recommend coconut, olive, mustard or sesame (til) oil. Applying oil will help get the color off easily when you bathe after Holi. It will also protect your skin and hair from dryness, fizziness, roughness and irritation.

Girls, make sure you tie your hair after applying oil. Braid it or tie it into a bun to protect them from getting damaged in case someone pulls them while playing Holi.

Guys, don’t shave for 2-3 days before Holi. This would protect your pores from color granules and chemicals.

For any skin,hair and nail ailment visit our clinics at Malad,Juhu and Bandra .For appointments call 9004839333.