Vitiligo: those white spots on the skin

This skin disease has had great social significance throughout history. There are references to it in Indian holy books, 1,400 years BC. The stigma associated with vitiligo, in some cultures, dates back to those times, when it was mistaken for leprosy or other contagious or disfiguring disorders. It causes a great aesthetic and psychological repercussion for people who suffer from it.

Vitiligo is a disease of unknown cause, with a certain genetic predisposition, which appears in all races. It affects between 1 and 2% of the population and both sexes equally; and, although it can occur at any age, it is more frequent between 10 and 30 years, explains the dermatologist in Rajouri Garden.

Despite the great scientific advances, it has not yet been possible to elucidate the reason why melanocytes (melanin-producing cells) are not present in white spots. However, various factors are postulated, such as genetic, autoimmune, and neurogenic mechanisms (nearby nerve endings release a neurochemical mediator toxic to melanocytes). According to the skin specialist in Rajouri Garden, many patients attribute the onset of the disease to some specific circumstance in their lives, a crisis or a certain illness: the loss of a job, the death of a close relative, an accident or a serious systemic pathology.

Clinical picture

The clinical manifestations of vitiligo are very specific and, in general, asymptomatic. The characteristic lesion is a chalk or milky white spot with well-defined boundaries, ranging in size from pinpoint to large spots, in different ways. Their number is variable, since it can present as a single injury or in such a quantity that it is uncountable, explains the dermatologist in Shastri Nagar.

Types of vitiligo

a) Focal: isolated spot or a few scattered spots.

b) Segmental: unilateral spots with distribution of a metamera (field or area associated with a nerve that leaves the spinal cord). It tends to be of an early start and more stable than the generalized one. It usually appears in the area of ​​the trigeminal nerve, neck and trunk.

c) Generalized: it is the most common type and is characterized by scattered spots. It is usual for these spots to be arranged symmetrically on the extensor surfaces of the extremities, mainly in the joints of the fingers, elbows and knees. Other involved surfaces are the wrist, the navel, the lumbosacral zone, the anterior tibia and the armpit. They can be periorificiales, being located around the eyes, the nose, the ears, the mouth and the anus. It can also affect the mucosa (lips, distal part of the penis and nipples). It can be associated with premature gray hair, says the skin specialist in Shastri Nagar.

d) Universal: it affects practically the entire body surface.

Associations

As per the dermatologist in Vishnu Garden, it can be associated with alopecia areata, pigmentary abnormalities of the iris and retina, thyroid diseases (hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, toxic goiter and thyroiditis), diabetes mellitus, diseases of the adrenal glands (Addison) and pernicious anemia (due to vitamin B12 deficiency).

Diagnosis

It is easy, although in light-skinned people the exploration with Wood's light can be useful.

Treatment

Four aspects of the disease should be considered:

1) Protect the pigment-free areas with clothing or sunscreen to avoid sunburn, frequent due to the absence of melanin.

2) Try the repigmentation of the white areas, from the regeneration of the surrounding healthy skin melanocytes or the healthy hair follicles of the affected area. This is a difficult task that can be used for: powerful topical corticosteroids when the lesions are small, topical immunomodulators (tacrolimus), and photochemotherapy (PUVA). Healthy skin grafts or melanocyte cultures can also be performed on the affected skin areas, says the skin specialist in Vishnu Garden.

3) Try depigmentation of healthy pigmented areas with 20% hydroquinone monobenzyl ether. It is used if repigmentation fails.

4) Conceal injuries with makeup.

Spots on the Skin: what can I do?

There are multiple and diverse causes that can cause the appearance of spots on the skin, but if something is clear it is that while age is one of the least important factors, the sun is the true enemy of the skin, so learn to protect yourself. They can properly stop these spots from appearing.

According to dermatologist in Rajouri Garden, "the main cause of the appearance of spots on the skin is exposure to solar radiation." The expert explains that this is because " prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays causes the skin to generate a greater amount of melanin, the natural pigment that protects against solar radiation, so that in those areas of our skin where melanin accumulates, a stain will finally appear”.

These spots, says dermatologist in Rajouri Garden, "are known as solar lentigo and usually appear in frequently photo-exposed areas, such as the face, back and décolleté, in both men and women." Other additional factors that can influence the appearance of skin spots are hormonal changes, such as those that occur during pregnancy or with the use of contraceptives, which give rise to other types of spots known as melasma and that usually appear in areas like cheeks, forehead and mustache.

The role that age fulfills in this aspect, affirms the skin specialist in Rajouri Garden, is due to the fact that " with the years the possibilities of developing this type of spots increase ", since there is a longer time of exposure to the sun and the skin becomes drier and less elastic. Although there is no specific age from which these lesions begin to appear, as it depends on the time and degree of sun exposure, they are generally more frequent between the ages of 30 and 40.

The dermatologist in Shastri Nagar, defends in this sense that "there are many types of spots, therefore it cannot be generalized when we talk about them, since there may be other types of injuries that are due to other causes”.

Faced with this problem, dermatologist in Shastri Nagar assures that "the only thing in our hands is to protect ourselves from the sun, because the other factors do not depend on us." In this sense, dermatologist declares that "the use of daily sunscreens on commonly exposed skin, such as that of the face, neck and hands, is essential."

The skin specialist in Shastri Nagar denounces that "there is an erroneous belief that we should use these creams only in the summer months, however, UV radiation is present throughout the year, to a greater or lesser extent, so it is necessary to maintain continuous protection”. In addition, the use of these protective creams, he declares, "not only prevents the appearance of solar lentigo, but also prevents the appearance of skin cancer."

How to treat Spots?

In the event that they have appeared, there are numerous topical products and chemical and physical techniques to eliminate these injuries, although it is important, before taking any action, to contact a professional who confirms the diagnosis and can give a specific solution for the type spot in question. Among the available treatments, says dermatologist in Vishnu Garden, "we found depigmenting agents, peels and treatments with lasers and light sources":

• Depigmenting agents: The skin specialist in Vishnu Garden highlights hydroquinone and its derivatives, kojiko acid, azelaic acid and retinol.
• Peeling: Combinations of different types of acids and depigmenting agents are used in different concentrations, depending on the pathology to be treated.
• Lasers and light sources: The expert states that among the options with the highest effectiveness rate are pulsed light and Q-Switched lasers, which are used for spots of the solar lentigo type. The possibility of carrying out cryotherapy treatment in certain more localized lesions also stands out as an alternative.

How to care for your skin at home?

The fundamental pillars for skin care are hydration and photoprotection, since both measures aim to avoid skin photoaging, and with it the appearance of spots and the possibility of developing cancer.

Dermatologist in Delhi also advises a diet rich in antioxidants, such as vitamin E, vitamin C, carotenoids and lycopene, since "they have shown to have a protective role against aging." Tobacco causes premature aging of the skin, hinders wound healing and favors the appearance of skin cancer, so avoiding it also falls within the recommendations for healthy, blemish-free skin.

Acne and its Treatment: Everything you need to know

 

Acne is a condition that usually begins in adolescence, although there are cases, especially women, in which it persists or appears for the first time during the adult stage. There are two reasons why we should treat acne on time: because if it continues to evolve it can leave marks and because it causes, in many cases, great discomfort in who suffers it. There are studies that show that acne patients have lower self-esteem, are not happy with their image, their social relationships are affected, both with people of the same sex and the opposite sex and have more difficulty finding employment. The anxiety and depression rate is higher in people with acne and even 6% have had suicidal thoughts. For all this, it is very clear that acne treatment must be correct and on time, says the dermatologist in Rajouri Garden.

What anti-acne treatment should you choose?

Having made it clear that acne is always worth treating, the skin specialist in Rajouri Garden will have to decide which acne treatment to perform. For this, once in consultation, they will assess your specific case: type of acne, severity, evolution, previous treatments carried out, factors that may be aggravating it ... Sometimes analytical studies must be requested to rule out a basic hormonal alteration. And with all this information, they will propose the different acne treatment options and then they will choose the most appropriate option for you.

Topical treatments

We can try both creams or gels with medication and cosmetics suitable for acne-prone oily skin. In any acne you will have to use a topical treatment, it is actually the basis of any anti-acne treatment. In mild cases topical treatment will suffice, but in moderate and severe cases we will probably need to associate it with another therapy, explains the dermatologist in Shastri Nagar.

Oral antibiotics

Certain antibiotics, such as tetracyclines, are used for the treatment of acne due to their anti-inflammatory effect. They are therefore effective in cases of inflammatory acne, where red pimples predominate more than black points. Its main drawbacks : they are not usually effective enough in more severe acnes, when the treatment ends, acne may reappear, they cannot be used during pregnancy or children under 8 years of age, they can make the stomach feel bad and you have to protect yourself well from the sun because they are phototoxic, says the skin specialist in Shastri Nagar.

Antiandrogenic therapies

Women are sometimes recommended to use antiandrogenic therapies (oral contraceptives, spironolactone, metformin) especially if acne is linked to other problems, such as irregular menstruation, alopecia or hirsutism (appearance of exaggerated hair on the face, alba line, mammary areola ...). Although, although it is true that, the most modern contraceptives give much less side effects than the old ones, we should always take into account the thrombotic risk, which is the most relevant, states the skin specialist in Vishnu Garden.

Isotretinoin (Roactutan®)

The isotretinoin is, in many cases, the most effective drug for treating acne. Despite its potential side effects, the dermatologist in Vishnu Garden consider that, with adequate control tests, it is a very safe drug. We cannot use it in pregnant women or those who want to get pregnant soon and drinking alcohol is not recommended during therapy.

Skin Aging: what factors influence and how to delay it?

All dermatologists agree, aging is photoaging, that is, it is the action of the sun on the skin. That’s why most will place sunscreen as the essential cosmetic, not only to preserve young skin, but to prevent skin cancer, says the dermatologist in Rajouri Garden.

Photoaging accounts for about 80% of skin aging, and although there is no discussion and it is the main one, we can abound in the other 20% and its reasons. Beyond creams, we will focus on what we do every day, on our lifestyle.

Aging is caused by internal and external factors, also called extrinsics. Sun exposure is primarily responsible for skin aging. But beyond the sun, what other external factors cause aging?

There are numerous environmental factors such as diet, tobacco, pollution, menopause, chronic diseases, which accelerate the decline of our skin and may require more concrete management, explains the dermatologist in Shastri Nagar.

Remember, the main exposure of skin aging is ultraviolet radiation from the sun, responsible for the appearance of spots, wrinkles, and skin cancer. But what are the others?

10 factors that influence skin aging

1. Infrared radiation.

Infrared is a radiation present in the electromagnetic spectrum that reaches the skin through sunlight and occasionally from the appliances.

According to the skin specialist in Rajouri Garden, infrared reaches the deepest layers of the skin, the dermis, in a high percentage, where up to 65 percent of the radiation is distributed. And even up to 10 percent reach the fat below. Infrared radiation releases heat and induces inflammation of the skin (metaloproteinase) and free radicals similar to ultraviolet radiation.

2. Pollution.

Environmental pollution ages the skin. It does this through two mechanisms. One of them is when combined outdoors with solar radiation. Thus, combined with UVA increases aging and the risk of skin cancer and combined with ozone decreases vitamin E levels in the corneal stratum, in the shallowest.

Remember that vitamin E is one of the natural antioxidants of our skin, and it defends us from ageing and skin cancer, states the skin specialist in Shastri Nagar.

Without being outside the pollution also affects our skin, it does so again through the release of free radicals and metalloproteinase, such as infrared or ultraviolet.

3. Tobacco

The harmful effects of tobacco have been known for decades. Studies say that if you smoke your skin it looks 5 years older. The skin wrinkles, affects the vasculature and stains.

More specifically, it affects keratinocytes, fibroblasts and the microvasculature of the skin, also resulting in a delay in wound healing. The mechanism is also very similar to that of ultraviolet radiation.

4. Sleep.

If you get little sleep, your skin loses water and defends itself worse from the aggressions of ultraviolet radiation. During sleep our skin repairs itself. Chronicly poor sleep is associated with increased signs of aging, decreased skin barrier and worse appearance, says the dermatologist in Vishnu Garden.

5 Diet.

Antioxidants defend us from oxidative stress and have anti-aging action. They are vitamins and micronutrients such as zinc, selenium or cobalt present in vegetables and fruits mainly.

A study of 4000 female patients found that the diet rich in antioxidants, vegetables and olive oil was associated with fewer wrinkles.

On the other hand, in a study, it was found that the diet rich in meats and snacks was associated with the presence of facial wrinkles. Diets high in sugars and low protein have also been related to aging.

6. Body mass index.

For all of the above, it seems reasonable, that obesity is associated with further aging of the skin if good dietary habits are associated to the contrary. Obesity produces insulin resistance and higher blood glucose levels. These levels have been shown to correlate with subjective perception of age.

On the other hand, highly restrictive diets, inadequate protein intake and a body mass index of less than 18.5 is associated with skin aging.

7. Exercise.

Moderate exercise increases oxygen in the skin and reduces glucose rates. Women who exercise moderately seem younger. However, strenuous exercise, such as that of athletes, increases oxidative stress related to aging.

A moderate program of three weekly one-hour sessions combining aerobic exercise and strength training has been shown to be effective in reducing oxidative stress in women over 40 years.

8. Chronic emotional stress.

Stressful emotional situations cause changes of the skin barrier in animal models. In people, cortisol levels and oxidative markers related to skin aging increase and in addition, we perceive people stressed by financial problems (common stressor) as older, says the skin specialist in Vishnu Garden.

9 Menopause.

Decreased estrogen in menopause results in drier skin, changes in texture, hair density, hot flashes, delayed healing and dermis atrophy which results in the appearance of more wrinkles.

These symptoms revert to Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) with estrogen, however, most experts do not recommend its use beyond 5 years. The use of estrogen in the form of creams is safe.

Alternatively, there are isoflavones of phytoestrogens, present in plants. It has been postulated to produce estrogen-like effects with fewer side effects.

10 Chronic diseases.

The interaction between the body and the skin makes it reflect our inner state. The chronic disease most related to wrinkles and aging is diabetes, because of its relationship with blood glucose products.

However, there are many chronic inflammatory processes, countless, that affect the skin and our appearance. They include kidney, lung, rheumatological, liver disease, etc.

Skin Ageing: Conclusions

Aging is a multifactorial process, derived from the passage of time and the external factors we receive or exhibit.

The main responsible for the aging of the skin is ultraviolet radiation from the sun, and to a lesser extent other factors on which, as in sun exposure, we can intervene, says the skin specialist in Delhi.

What is Eczema, what are the Symptoms, Causes, Types and Treatments?

Reddish spots, itching and wounds: know what is eczema, a skin problem with several causes and that has no cure, but that can be treated and prevented.

Eczema is an inflammation of the skin that causes red spots, blisters and itching, resulting in coarse-looking lesions. This problem has no cure, but it is possible to have good control of the disease. For this, however, it is necessary to better understand what eczema is and how it develops, suggests dermatologist in Rajouri Garden.

Also called dermatitis, eczema is more common in childhood, affecting 20% ​​of children at some point in life. However, symptoms tend to be more severe when they appear in adults - even though the prevalence of the problem is about 4% in this population.

The appearance of damaged skin can lead to social damage due to fear of contamination - an effect felt even more significantly by children. However, eczema is not a contagious disease, so it cannot be spread from one person to another, explains skin specialist in Rajouri Garden.

Symptoms of eczema

The symptoms of eczema vary according to the type of the disease and the stage it is in (acute or chronic), and may appear and disappear periodically or last for long periods of time. Know the main ones:

• Reddish spots;
• Swollen and inflamed skin;
• Very intense itching;
• Water bubbles;
• Dryness;
• Flaking of the skin and scalp (dandruff);
• Cracks due to dryness;
• Rough and thicker skin;
• Wounds or ulcers;
• Increased sensitivity to hygiene and cleaning products.

Depending on the type of eczema, symptoms can affect any part of the body, reappearing in different regions with each crisis. It is important to remember that the patient does not need to present all of them to characterize the problem.

Causes of eczema

The symptoms of eczema arise from damage to the corneal layer, which is on the surface of the epidermis (the outermost layer of the skin) and is our first protective barrier against the entry of disease-causing microorganisms, says dermatologist in Shastri Nagar.

Because it is the most exposed, the horny layer is constantly suffering from environmental aggressions, such as the sun, wind, cold and scratches. In healthy skin, this layer is always renewing itself, with the replacement of old and damaged cells with new and functional cells, so that protection is maintained.

However, in people with eczema, this cell renewal process is hindered by inflammation, which can happen for several reasons. The causes are not fully explained, but it is possible to highlight some of the most common:

• Genetic factors: such as the mutation of a gene that reduces the production of proteins important for the maintenance of the corneal layer;
• Dry skin: insufficient oil production due to genetics or others favors eczema;
• Predisposition to allergies: although eczema is not an allergic reaction, hypersensitivity of the immune system can contribute to the problem;
• Disorders of the immune system: flu, colds, nutritional deficiency, stress, inappropriate use of medicines, etc. may favor inflammatory responses to skin microorganisms;
• Contact irritation: when the skin is affected by certain substances that cause irritation or allergy.

Eczema: a set of diseases

When talking about eczema, we are not referring to a single disease, but to a set of problems of an inflammatory nature. According to skin specialist in Shastri Nagar, there are at least six pathologies considered eczema, which can vary according to their causes, symptoms and locations of the affected body:

1. Atopic eczema or atopic dermatitis

It is the most common type of eczema and is related to allergies such as rhinitis and asthma. It usually arises from the second month of life onwards and manifests itself mainly in the face and in the folds of the arms and legs, with intense itching being the most prominent symptom.

The condition can be aroused or aggravated by elements such as emotional tensions, climate changes, domestic allergens (mites, fungi, animal hair, etc.), wool clothing, among others.

2. Contact eczema or contact dermatitis>

It arises when the patient comes into contact with materials or products capable of causing skin irritations or allergies, which especially affect hands, feet, neck and face.

Some of the most frequent triggers are hair dye, nail polish, nail polish remover, aftershave lotion, fragrance hygiene items, nickel, some plants (poison ivy, mango peels etc.), rubber and latex (gloves, condoms, balloons, etc.) and insect repellents.

This type of eczema is common in groups such as healthcare professionals, who often wash their hands with bactericidal soap and gel alcohol, and cleaning professionals, who constantly deal with abrasive products.

3. Nummular eczema or nummular dermatitis

Of unknown cause, this type of eczema is characterized by coin-shaped patches, which have crusts and bubbles and can be distributed throughout the body.

Nummular eczema is more common in middle-aged and elderly people, especially those who have dry skin.

4. Stasis eczema or stasis dermatitis

It is the inflammation of the skin located in the lower legs as a result of poor circulation, which compromises the supply of oxygen and nutrients to the tissue. It usually occurs in people who have varicose veins and suffer from lower limb swelling.

5. Dyshidrotic eczema or dyshidrosis

It is characterized by the appearance of red and liquid-filled bubbles on the palms of the hands, on the sides of the fingers or on the soles of the feet.

This type of eczema is more frequent in adolescents and young adults and is usually caused by mycosis, emotional tension and contact dermatitis, among other factors.

6. Exfoliative eczema or exfoliative dermatitis

It is a severe inflammation that brings risks to the patient's life because it causes redness, cracks and flaking of the entire surface of the skin, causing it to come off in large scales. It can also cause hair and nails to come off the body.

Although the cause is mostly unknown, this type of eczema can be caused by some medications (such as antibiotics and barbiturates) or it can appear as a complication of other skin diseases, lymphomas and leukemias.

Treatment of eczema

The treatment of eczema is done according to the type of the disease, offering good control for symptoms. Medicines should be indicated by a dermatologist in Delhi and may include moisturizing or urea-based ointments, antiseptics for wounds, topical corticosteroids, oral antihistamines, among others.

In the case of atopic or contact eczema, treatment and prevention also include measures to avoid exposure to allergens, materials and products known to cause symptoms.

Knowing what eczema is and how it manifests is essential to be able to recognize its symptoms and seek medical attention. Although there is no cure, it is possible to have a good quality of life by following specific guidelines for each case.

Hair Loss: Diagnosis & Therapy

Full head hair is generally considered a beauty ideal. The self-confidence of many affected people suffers, even more, when there is increased hair loss. The possible causes for this range from genetic predisposition to pregnancy to various diseases. There are different forms of hair loss that have different causes. The respective treatment also depends on the trigger, says dermatologist in Delhi.

Life cycle of hair

Normally, humans have around 80,000 to 100,000 hairs on the head - blondes somewhat more, redheads less. There are around a million sac-shaped hair follicles on the head, which are only a few millimeters in size. About every tenth of these hair roots is currently active and forms new hair. The life cycle of the hair is divided into three sections:

• Growth phase: 80 to 90 percent of the hair is in this phase. It takes about two to six years on average and determines the maximum hair length. Hair grows about an inch a month. People with a rather short hair growth phase can therefore not get very long hair, even if they have it cut rarely and little.
• Transitional phase: This section is short.
• Rest phase: After this period of about two to four months, the hair falls out on its own. We usually lose about 50 to 60 hairs a day, with a hair wash it can be up to 100 hairs.

If more hair falls out, this life cycle is disturbed and the cause should be clarified by a dermatologist in Vishnu Garden. Depending on the trigger, various options for hair fall treatment in Rajouri Garden is available.

How is the diagnosis of hair loss made?

In consultation with the person affected, the dermatologist in Rajouri Garden clarifies whether there is a family history of hair loss or a one-sided diet. In addition to a connection with possible causes (is eg infections, metabolic disorders or hair-damaging influences) wanted. This is followed by a physical examination, especially of the scalp, and, if necessary, a microscopic examination of the hair root and skin samples. Blood tests may also be necessary.

Forms, causes, and therapy of hair loss

There are different forms of hair loss that have different causes. The respective treatment also depends on the trigger. The options range from various local therapies to systemic therapies and so-called mesotherapy. Low-dose substances are injected directly into the scalp, explains skin specialist in Rajouri Garden.

If these treatments are not or not sufficiently effective and the suffering is high a wig, a toupee or hair plaits can help. Hair transplant in Delhi should be used with caution and should only be performed by specialized professionals, as it can lead to complications such as rejection and chronic infections.

Conditioned hair loss

Causes: This genetic and hormonal form (androgenetic alopecia) is responsible for hair loss in around 95 percent of cases - both in women and, even more frequently, in men. Increased sensitivity of the hair root to male hormones (androgens) reduces the size of the hair follicles. Hair production is restricted and hair also falls out faster. In men, there is increased beard growth. An increase in the sebum glands on the head also contributes to the loss of scalp hair, says skin specialist in Vishnu Garden.

Symptoms: Hair loss often begins at puberty. In the middle years of life about every second man is affected. Frequently, "receding hairline corners" appear, which develop into partial or full baldness over time. 

In women, the entire scalp thins out. At the same time, unpleasantly increased hair develops on other parts of the body, for example on the legs, lower legs, toes or on the face.

Therapy: There are no preventive measures for this form, the effect of which has been scientifically proven. Medications are available for treatment that can stop hair loss. In areas that are already bald, hair no longer grows back, because the hair roots have already shrunk and this can no longer be reversed. Different preparations are sometimes used for women and men. Most of the time, permanent use is required, suggests dermatologist in Tagore Garden.

• Treatment in men: The active ingredient finasteride affects testosterone metabolism. It must be taken regularly and over a long period of time. Potency problems are a possible side effect.
• Treatment in women: Combined hormone preparations ( estrogen and progestogen ) - eg the birth control pill in younger women - act as an antagonist to testosterone. Solutions containing estrogen can be applied locally to the scalp. These only work during the period in which they are used. Women - especially during pregnancy - should not use finasteride.
• Treatment in women and men: The active ingredient minoxidil must be dosed lower in women than in men. It is applied locally to the scalp. The mode of action has not yet been fully clarified. Minoxidil may expand the blood capillaries due to its hypotensive effects and thereby promote blood circulation. In addition, it seems to shorten the resting phase of the hair cycle.

Circular hair loss

Causes: The triggers of the so-called alopecia areata are not exactly known, autoimmunological factors are discussed. The body's own defense cells attack the hair roots. The frequent occurrence within a family also suggests a genetic predisposition. Adolescents are affected relatively often (around one in 1,000). The psychological suffering is particularly high at this age. Stress seems to be an important trigger factor for this presumably autoimmune-related illness, says skin specialist in Tagore Garden.

Symptoms: The main characteristic is sudden circular hairless spots on the head. Since pigmented hair is mainly affected, those affected often turn gray in a relatively short time. The entire body hair can rarely fail (Alopecia Universalis). The hair can grow back spontaneously after a few months, but can then be lost again.

Therapy: Since the causes are mostly unknown, the treatment is difficult and is often little or only temporarily effective. In some cases, spontaneous healing occurs. Inflammation at the roots of the hair is attempted to be relieved by various local measures, as explained by dermatologist in Subhash Nagar:

• circulation-promoting tinctures, minoxidil,
• anti-inflammatory drugs,
• local application of diphencypron (DPCP) or squaric acid,
• Irradiation with UV light,
• oral zinc administration.

Scarring hair loss

Causes: Inflammation of the scalp leads to irreversible hair loss with scarring. The following factors are possible triggers:

• Physical damage: eg X-rays, burns, burns;
• Deep infections: mostly with bacteria or fungi, less often with viruses;
• Autoimmune diseases: eg lupus erythematosus or morphea;
• Unclear cause (idiopathic): chronic, purulent, deep folliculitis (folliculitis decalvans).

Symptoms: Perifollicular inflammation and excessive cornification of the skin (hyperkeratosis) can be found in the area of ​​the hair on the head. Mostly, scars can be seen on the scalp between the inflamed areas.

Therapy: If possible, a causal - ie mostly effective against bacteria or fungi - treatment is carried out. Depending on the severity, glucocorticoids, retinoids or immunosuppressants can also be used, says skin specialist in Subhash Nagar.

Diffuse hair loss

Causes: Above all, diseases, lack of nutrients or external damaging influences on the hair itself are the triggers, among others :

• After birth or after puberty;
• Infections: eg shingles, erysipelas ;
• Metabolic disorders: eg diabetes, increased blood lipids, diseases of the liver or thyroid, disorders of the sex hormones;
• Deficiency symptoms, eg through one-sided diets ( especially undersupply with iron, zinc, folic acid, vitamin B12 );
• Hair-toxic substances: environmental pollutants, medication
• Hair-damaging influences: e.g. frequent wearing of headgear, intensive combing, and brushing, rubbing, tight hair bands, tinting, dyeing, bleaching, perming, frequent washing with alkaline shampoos, hot blow-drying, intensive sun exposure.

In addition, diffuse hair loss can also occur with chronic stress, after birth or puberty, seasonally or as a normal age-related process explains dermatologist in Shastri Nagar.

Symptoms: The head hair thins more and more overall. If the cause is remedied, the hair can grow back as long as the hair roots are still intact.

Therapy: treatment or elimination of the cause.

Whom can I ask?

In the event of sudden or prolonged hair loss, you can contact the following:

• General practitioner,
• Specialist in dermatology and venereology.

It is advantageous if the skin specialist in Shastri Nagar has special training and sufficient experience in the treatment of hair loss. Discuss the possible therapy options, their potential chances of success and the associated costs in advance.

In Winter, Get Rid of Skin Blemishes

After the summer months and Christmas holidays, the perfect time has come to perform treatments against different types of hyperpigmentation or dark spots on our skin, suggests skin specialist in Rajouri Garden.

Types of spots

The melasma is diffuse and larger hyperpigmentation, which can have a color ranging from gray to dark brown ash and can be located in the front, cheeks, nasal, supralabial back, chin, upper limbs or neck. It can occur during or after pregnancy.

The solar lentigines are more localized small spots with a variable color from light brown to dark.

There are other spots that can also occur in areas such as cleavage, back, and lower limbs, and depend on sun damage, medication, exposure to chemicals and the skin type of patients. Thus, patients with lighter skin will have a greater tendency to present this type of lesions, warns dermatologist in Rajouri Garden.

Available techniques

To improve these pigment alterations, there are multiple techniques a dermatologist in Subhash Nagar can use, which allow individualizing the treatment for each patient.

The basis of any treatment is always a correct photoprotection. A protector of factor 30 or higher should always be used and appropriate renovations (every 2 hours) carried out in the exposed areas. In addition, techniques such as chemical peels offer an improvement in a short time not only of the pigment but also of the homogeneity of the color, texture, and luminosity of the skin and even the slight signs of photo-aging (hyperkeratosis, fine wrinkles, alterations of the color, dull skin, yellowish hue).

There are many peels aimed at specifically improving the skin pigment. Among them, surface-media are the most used due to their high effectiveness and tolerance, without requiring weeks off from routine life. These peels work at the level of the epidermis and superficial dermis, for which the result is redness and fine desquamation, tolerable on a daily basis. However, deep peels, when reaching deep dermis and generate more intense exfoliation, can cause bleeding and scabs, so it is usually necessary to "rest" the routine for 1-2 weeks after use, suggests dermatologist in Tagore Garden.

In addition to peeling techniques, many other physical therapies such as radiofrequency, laser, pulsed light or cryotherapy. They can help improve skin tone and texture.

One of the keys to success with depigmenting therapies is constancy and continuity, not only with photoprotection but also with maintenance treatments. Therefore, once the desired result has been achieved, we must not forget to continue the treatment prescribed by the dermatologist in Shastri Nagar to maintain it. Also, during the summer months, we must perform even more intense sun protection and consult the dermatologist in Delhi about the depigmenting treatments valid for use during the months of greatest UV radiation.