Skin Care Blog

A woman’s body will experience a lot of changes during pregnancy. These are caused by the body’s hormones in preparation for childbirth. One of the problems faced by pregnant women is the development of chloasma or the mask of pregnancy.

Sometimes dubbed as melasma, this is a skin condition in which some areas of the skin become darker than the surrounding skin. Normally, this skin condition occurs on the face, especially the cheeks, forehead and above the upper lip. For pregnant women, the patches last until the end of pregnancy. However, in some cases, these may remain even after giving birth.

Causes Of Chloasma

The exact mechanism and cause of melisma are largely unknown. One of the hallmarks of chloasma is having an increased level of melanin. Sometimes, this can be caused by hormonal changes. However, one of the factors that may lead to melasma is the overexposure to the sunlight.

Pigmentation happens because of an overproduction of melanin pigment cells called melanocytes. There are many reasons why this happens. For instance, some people are genetically predisposed to the disease while others, use cosmetic products that may contain irritating ingredients, may be overexposed to the sun or use hormone drugs like contraceptives and hormonal replacement therapy.

How To Prevent Chloasma?

Direct exposure to the sun for long periods of time may lead to the formation of melasma. Thus, it is crucial to protect the skin from the sun’s harmful rays. Using sunscreens both indoors and outdoors, using protective clothing and avoiding direct sunlight are recommended.

How Is Chloasma Treated?

There is a wide spectrum of treatment options for chloasma. One method is through the use of topical treatments. Dermatologists may prescribe skin-lightening agents like hydroquinone, tretinoin, and fluocinolone acetonide.

Another treatment option is laser therapy. Specifically called Intense Pulsed Light Therapy, this method uses certain wavelengths of light to eradicated pigmented areas of the skin. Also, chemical peels are used to provide a mild chemical burn. In the long run, the burned areas peel off, leaving a fresh and new skin.

These treatment options are affordable and available in various dermatology clinics. It’s important to treat the condition early so it will not progress into severe patches that are hard to treat. Also, chloasma, melasma or the mask of pregnancy may lead to reduced self-esteem among women. Though it may go away on its own among pregnant women, others may have them longer than expected.

Thus, it is important to consult a dermatologist on how to treat chloasma. These doctors are skilled, experienced and well-versed when it comes to the prevention and treatment of chloasma or melasma and other skin conditions.

Skin aging is a natural process and simply inevitable. However, premature skin aging is another thing. With the harmful environment today, people are predisposed to a wide range of health problems including cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and hypertension. Well, the skin is also affected by environmental factors. When it’s exposed to pollutants, environmental irritants and the harmful ultraviolet rays of the sun, it suffers various skin conditions and premature skin aging.

Premature skin aging comes in the form of wrinkles, fine lines, crow’s feet, dark circle around the eyes and skin hyperpigmentation. All these are difficult to treat but are easily prevented. Preventing premature skin aging entails protecting the skin from the sun, applying hydrating agents and using anti-aging products.

These are all effective in preventing skin damage, eradicating free radicals and of course, keeping the skin young looking.

5 Ways To Battle Premature Skin Aging

1. Anti-Aging Products

There is a wide range of anti-aging products in the beauty market today. All of which promise to bring back the skin’s youthful glow. These products are packed with antioxidants, retinoid, hyaluronic acid, and other potent anti-aging ingredients.

The ingredients all work together to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and other signs of skin aging. For instance, an anti-aging serum is formulated to fight premature skin aging by locking in moisture and helping the skin regenerate from damage. Aside from that, an anti-aging serum contains potent ingredients that make the skin firmer, suppler and wrinkle-free.

2. Moisturizers

Moisturizers are key products that can actually slow down skin aging. When the skin is hydrated and moisturized, it is healthy and free from wrinkles and other signs of premature skin aging.

3. Sunscreens

Most dermatologists agree that ultraviolet exposure is the number-one-skin-ager. This is because 80 percent of skin aging happens because of sun exposure. When the skin is exposed to the harmful rays of the sun, it may lead to the appearance of wrinkles, drooping, sagging, fine lines and pigmentation.

Thus, the use of sun protection specifically sunscreen is important. Choose the right type of sunblock and reapply every two hours to make sure the skin is protected throughout the day.

4. Healthy Lifestyle

There are a lot of ways to modify your lifestyle into a skin-friendly one. For some, taking vitamin D supplement helps make the skin healthy. Aside from that, eating foods rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are good for overall health and the skin too.

Eating foods rich in vitamins and minerals such as fruits and vegetables is important to make the skin glowing, radiant, and healthy from the inside. Lastly, hydrate your body and skin by drinking lots of water, especially during the summer season.

5. Stress-Free!

One of the culprits in premature skin aging is stress. Physical, emotional and mental stress all lead to premature aging inside and outside the body. To curb these stresses, you need to relax and unwind. Do not overwork yourself and make sure you have time to go to a spa, a facial center, or just travel around a lot.

Premature skin aging is the nemesis of most people, especially women. There are many ways to prevent and stem premature skin aging. All you need is the right beauty regimen and healthy lifestyle. Learn to take care of yourself and your skin too. This way, you will feel more beautiful, happier and younger.

The skin is the largest organ of the body, and is responsible for protecting us from external contaminants. It keeps out germs and other disease-causing organisms. It is also responsible for blocking out environmental factors such as the sun’s harmful rays. The skin does the latter through melanin, the pigment that give the skin its color. Skin pigmentation is a part of the body’s protective properties. Therefore, problems with the pigments can cause adverse health effects.

Pigmentation Issues

Melanin comes from melanocytes — cells that are located at the skin’s base. Darker people have more melanocytes than those with lighter skin tones. This makes them more resistant to sunlight. However, if the skin has abnormally unequal skin tone, then it might be the start of skin problems.

Hyperpigmentation: This can either be generalized or localized, depending on the extent. Generalized hyperpigmentation can arise in places where the skin is folded, Examples are scars, arm pits, etc. It can also appear in the genitals or in areas exposed to the sun. In localized hyperpigmentation, the skin appears to have lesions such as moles.

There are times when localized hyperpigmentation can be the symptom of more dangerous problems. This is the case in melanoma, a type of skin cancer. It can also appear in the aftermath of an injury, such as eczema.

Hypopigmentation: This is the opposite of hyperpigmentation, and happens when there is a lack of color in the skin. This is a symptom of conditions like albinism. Like hyperpigmentation, this disorder can also be generalized or localized.

Generalized hypopigmentation can be caused by disorders such as the lack of specific hormones. However, not all paleness is hypopigmentation. It may actually be caused by unrelated conditions such as anemia or blood loss.

On the other hand, hypopigmentation is caused by diseases such as leukoderma or achromia.

Aside from these, there are other causes of skin pigment problems — aging and genetics are among them. These two are among the hardest to cure, since the reason for the skin’s demise is written in the genetic code. However, science is making continuous advancements to treating even these.

Treatment

There are several kinds of treatment available, but they all depend on the type of disorder the person is suffering from. While it is important to bring the skin back to its normal color, it is also important to treat any underlying issues aside from the skin pigmentation concern.

Here are some of the more common treatment processes:

-Laser Therapy

-Dermabrasion

-Chemical Peels

-Chemical Treatments (ascorbic acid, hydroquinone, etc.)

These processes may vary in their efficiency. It is important to make sure your doctor is qualified to perform all needed procedures to ensure effectiveness. There are some countries that have become a haven for cures for skin-related concerns. One such country is Singapore, which has a good number of experts with technology to match. From acne scars to drooping skin, there are Singapore-based doctors who can help. It is just important to research carefully and always ask about your doctor’s credentials so you know you are in good hands.

First of all, colonoscopy or coloscopy is simply a procedure that allows your surgeon to examine the colon and rectum area, from the inside. It’s frequently done in the hospital or in an endoscopic operation room and more specifically, on an outpatient basis. Why is coloscopy done? Many times, a coloscopy scan may be done to evaluate symptoms such as abdominal pain, changes in bowel habit, rectal bleeding, and to screen any occurrence of colorectal cancer in patients. But before you even consider a colonoscopy screening test, it’s important to alarm your doctor on any special medical conditions you may have, such as pregnancy, lung condition, heart condition, and any allergies you may experience with any medication.

  HOW IS COLOSCOPY PERFORMED?

The procedure many times is performed by a doctor highly experienced in the coloscopy field, and the screening test lasts anywhere between 30 to 60 minutes, at least. Medications are inserted into the vein to make you feel more relaxed and drowsy, and then your doctor asks you to lie flat on your left side on the examining table. Afterwards, the doctor inserts a soft, bendable scope into the anus and further advances into the rectum and colon area. Sometimes, your physician may ask you to change position occasionally to enable him to move his scope around the colon area more effectively.

The scope tube also blows air into the colon so that it can expand more, and so that the doctor can get a clear view of what is going on. Many patients usually experience mild cramping, bloating and some gassiness during the procedure, which can be further reduced by taking slow deep breaths during the screening test. After the doctor is done, the scope is slowly withdrawn while the lining of your bowel is closely examined. If the doctor fears something is abnormal, small layers of tissues can be removed for further analysis–known as a biopsy test. Also any kind of abnormal growths and polyps identified are usually removed, as well. Although many times, coloscopy scans allow effective diagnosis and treatment without the sequence for a serious procedure.

WHAT HAPPENS AFTER A COLOSCOPY?

After a coloscopy, you will be allowed to stay in a recovery room for about 30 minutes for more observation until all the sedation given upon the test has worn off. This can last about 1-2 hours. You may also experience some cramping and gassiness, although these feelings usually end rather quickly, and then you can eventually resume your normal diet as you wish. Because the sedatives given by the doctor can easily impair your reflexes, make sure you don’t drive or operate any machinery until the next day. So find someone to drive you home after the test.

Likewise, if you do not remember anything your surgeon told you about the examination or follow-up instructions, make sure you call your surgeon that very day or the next in order to be aware what you were supposed to do in the first place. Although just in case traces of polyps were found, you will need to see your surgeon some other time for another coloscopy scan, after which he or she may decide on the frequency of your next coloscopy test exams.

Above all else, many times a coloscopy test is done to check for symptoms such as abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, changes in bowel habit and more. During the procedure, patients may experience some gassiness and bloating, although this is reduced effectively by the sedatives given by the doctor and by taking slow deep breaths. After the coloscopy test is done and all the cramping and gassiness sensation have cleared, you can in turn go ahead and resume your diet. And if you have any questions or have any doubt about your coloscopy scan, it’s important you check with your surgeon all the time to save an appointment for may be another coloscopy test.

Lucky for you, if you’re thinking of having a colonoscopy in Singapore, you’ll find a wide range of highly professional surgeons adept in all aspects about coloscopy. Make sure you check with them anytime to be fully aware of your coloscopy health and status today!

There are many things to expect before, during, and after surgery. These expectations differ greatly from doctor to doctor, patient to patient, and surgery to surgery. Before undergoing one, it is best to know what happens every step of the way in order to guarantee yourself that everything is going to be alright while you are going under the knife. The same is particularly true if you have decided to get Lasik eye surgery in Singapore.

Before Eye Surgery

Before the eye surgery, your doctor will properly evaluate you to determine if you are a suitable candidate for the procedure. You will give him your complete medical history and the present condition of your eyes. If you are wearing contact lenses, it is important to remove those two weeks before undergoing the examination in order to prevent giving your doctor the wrong measurements of your cornea. Also, if you are like to wear makeup, you will be asked by your doctor to stop doing so to prevent loose particles getting into your eyes.

During Lasik Eye Surgery

You will be asked to sit on a reclining chair that contains the laser system. After doing so, you will be given a numbing eye drop, then your eyes will be cleaned and will be kept open using an instrument called eye speculum. After that, the doctor will cut a flap in your retina using microkeratome blades. These blades are only supposed to be used once and it will be thrown away after.  The laser will then be positioned in front of your eyes and you will be asked to stare at a red dot to prevent your eyes from moving. When your eye is in perfect position, the doctor will now start the laser that will vaporize the tissue in your cornea. The laser coming out if the machine is controlled using the measurements taken during your initial evaluation. After this, the flap will then be returned into its original position. The whole procedure normally takes only 30 to 40 minutes.

After Eye Surgery

You will experience some mild pain and discomfort after your eye surgery. For this, your doctor will give you pain reliever to help you manage the pain. You will then be asked to cover your eyes to prevent dirt and other free radicals in the air from getting into your eyes and causing infection. Also, the cover will help you prevent yourself from scratching your eyes unintentionally.

Now that you know what happens before, during, and after the eye surgery, you can now properly prepare for your eye surgery and enjoy your clearer and better vision.

Our internal health is reflected through our skin. If your skin is ridden with acne, blackheads, whiteheads or other skin issues, chances are you’re dealing with hormonal imbalances, poor nutrition and oxidative damage.

Whether you’re doing a home treatment or going for a facial treatment at a spa, these natural home remedies have great potential in treating acne and getting rid of the scars (regardless of your acne case being mild or severe), so make sure you include some of them in your facial treatment or diet:

1. Omega-3 fatty acids

To improve your acne, Omega-3 fatty acids contain anti-inflammatory properties, so you can include it in your diet by consuming walnuts, flaxseeds, albacore tuna or salmon. Alternatively, you can also take multi-nutrient capsule that contains fish oil.

2. Acidic foods

Flush pores easily with acidic foods like vinegar or citrus fruit juice. To quickly battle acne, dab a little of acidic juice or vinegar onto a cotton ball and carefully and gently swipe it on the affected areas.

3. Apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar helps in exfoliating, reducing red marks, and treating acne as it contains lactic acids and malic. Make your own DIY toner by mixing equal parts of water and apple cider vinegar. Apply the mixture to skin using a cotton ball (make sure you shake it well before every use).

4. Lemons

Lemons serve as a skin lightener, exfoliant and disinfectant to prevent new formation of pimples and reducing scar appearances. Dip cotton ball or cotton swab in lemon juice and dab acne (make sure your face is clean), before rinsing it off with cool water.

5. Aloe vera

Aloe vera contains burn-relieving properties, which really helps in reducing scarring, fighting infection, and promoting healing of acne. Use a spoon to scrape the aloe plant gel before applying it to acne. If you can’t find aloe plant, you can get aloe gel from pharmacies or health food stores (make sure it’s pure, natural aloe minus added ingredients).

6. Chamomile

To decrease inflammation from acne, turn to chamomile. For 15 minutes, soak two tea bags of chamomile in 1 cup boiled water. Once the tea is cool, dip a cotton ball and dab on face after you’ve cleansed.

7. Mint

To remove pore-clogging oil, mint is a must-have. Clear acne before it begins by mixing two tablespoons of oatmeal and plain yogurt with fresh mint (finely chopped). Slather on face and leave it for 10 minutes before rinsing it off with water.

8. Honey

Honey contains antibiotic properties which help to improve acne. For instant treatment, you can apply one teaspoon of the sweet ingredient to affected areas. Alternately, you can also make a mask by mixing 1 cup of plain oatmeal with ½ cup of honey, slather it on face and leave it on for half an hour.

9. Green tea

Green tea helps in fighting acne as it contains antioxidant and antimicrobial compounds. You can lay a soaked bag of green tea over the affected area or wash your face with a cup of green tea (cooled, not warm).

It’s unfortunate that many people would turn to topical medications and prescription drugs, instead of natural home remedies, to treat their acne problem and other issues.  Before you use manmade, chemical-laden types of medication for acne treatment, try using the natural home remedies first.

Thinking of signing up for a weight loss program? There are so many things for you to consider, aside from your budget and time. For those who are planning to sign up for a weight loss program for the first time, your program should at least have these 2 Ss: safe and successful.

How can you tell which ones are safe and guarantee a positive outcome, and which ones aren’t? Consider these 8 things to find the best weight loss program for you:

1. Will the program be a 1-on-1 session or a group session?

Depending on a person, sometimes a 1-on-1 session works best for those who prefer to have personal attention from their program supervisor, while a group session fits well for those who are trying to save more.

2. Does the program require you to keep food records, follow a specific diet plan, or buy special supplement or meals?

If you have medical issues, you may not able to follow a specific diet plan or buy special supplement or meals so best to check with the staff first.

3. Does the program require you to follow a specific exercise plan or guidelines?

Sometimes your physical condition does not permit you from taking part in a certain exercise or physical activity. For the first timers, it’s better to stick with the ones that offer a mild but consistent exercise plan. A rigorous plan doesn’t always guarantee success.

4. Is the program applicable to your cultural and lifestyle needs?

Perhaps your program requires you to do something that is against your culture or religious belief.

5. Does the program’s staff legally certified?

Make sure the staff in charge or your program supervisor is certified to run the program to avoid any issues like injuries from happening.

6. Does the program contain any risks?

Avoid programs that will put your health and life at stake, such as requiring you to take questionable drugs or supplements. Always run a background check on the drugs and supplements recommended, especially if you have medical issues.

7. Does the program offer flexibility in its delivery?

Some programs can be done online, so if you’re busy but would like to incorporate your program in your lifestyle, online programs are the best options.

8. Does the program offer a follow-up session?

Perhaps you manage to end your sessions with success, but along the way, you lost motivation and start gaining weight again. Some programs may offer a follow-up session to keep you to stay on track.

It may take a while for you to find the right program that is safe and successful, but with enough research, you’ll soon be starting your program.

Acne can definitely affect our self-confidence in so many ways. Many people avoid social activities because they are ashamed of what other people might say about them. Some might even blame their genes for having bad case of acne. But the big question is – is acne really genetic?  The answer is, yes. Genes have a significant role in influencing the sebaceous glands that affects the way acne appears in the skin. Unfortunately, acne leaves traces called acne scars that could remain in the surface of the skin if not treated properly.

How Do You Treat Acne Scars?

Acne scar removal is the best way to regain your lost self-confidence. However, in our haste to eliminate it, we tend to misunderstand everything there is to know about acne. First of all, acne does not always affect every generation. In some cases, you may be the only one who has acne in your family. But if you take a closer look in your family, you may notice that some members on either side of your parents may have the same problem as you.

One big mistake that some people do is they spot-treat their pimples. This doesn’t solve the problem because even though acne appears on the surface of the skin, the real problem resides inside. Spot-treating acne can only worsen rather than cure it.

What Are The Different Methods For Treating Acne Scars?

There are different ways to eliminate the cause of your social problems. Most of these are done in dermatology clinics in Singapore.

• Chemical Peel. This method exfoliates or removes the old layer of skin and exposes a new one underneath. This can be done using acne removal products at the convenience of your own home. However, there are also dermatology clinics in Singapore that offer this treatment.
• Dermabrasion/Microdermabrasion. This method is a mechanical exfoliation of dead skin cells in order to reveal a new layer of skin.
• Laser Treatment. This method is quite popular these days even on video streaming websites. Laser lights will slightly burn the affected area one by one to remove whiteheads and cysts.
• Punch Methods. Don’t worry; you won’t be punched in the face. Punch method is a technique that extracts blackheads and cysts in your facial skin using a special tool.

Before undergoing acne scar removal treatment, always make sure that you consult a dermatologist first to determine what kind of procedure would be best for your condition. This is to ensure that your skin would properly recover essential elements such as collagen after your treatment.

When you reach your 30s, much of your anti-aging skincare routine will be carried on from your 20s. For example, cleansing your face at night, keeping out of the sun and keeping your skin hydrated are all steps you need to continue to take. However, it is also time to ramp up your efforts a bit by adding new treatments, such as emulsions and eye cream to your routine.

Chances are, by the time you reach 30 you are already seeing a few signs of aging, such as dryness and fine lines. The good news is, with the help of anti-aging serum and other products, you can easily erase and minimize these signs. Some steps to add to your routine when you reach 30 can be found here.

Consider a Retinoid Prescription 

One of the first things you should do if you want to enhance your anti-aging routine is to use a retinoid. You can find over-the-counter options or seek a prescription. Both options offer powerful anti-aging benefits. This is a type of anti-aging serum that is extremely strong and effective. Be sure to test the option you choose on a small portion of your skin first, to make sure you don’t have an adverse reaction. Also, be sure to always wear sunscreen, since retinoids can increase photosensitivity.

Find Products with Antioxidants 

You should look for products, including an eye cream that offers preventative qualities. Products that contain plant stem cells and peptides are extremely rich in anti-oxidants, which are very beneficial for the skin. Since UV rays and air pollution are sources of free radicals, which are molecules that can damage your living cells and result in signs of aging, you need to protect your skin with a layer of antioxidants prior to leaving the house.

Use Chemical Exfoliates 

If you have yet to begin using any type of chemical exfoliate in your routine, now is the time to begin. These work well to unclog your pores and to remove dead skin that has become accumulated. They also work without the harsh irritation and abrasion that goes along with physical exfoliation. These are offered in two different forms: AHAs, which are alpha hydroxyl acids and BHAs, which are beta hydroxyl acids. You will likely have to experiment to find what works best for you and your skin, but these can be highly effective in minimizing the signs of aging.

When it comes to taking care of your skin as you age, you have to figure out what works for you. There are countless products on the market, and not all of them are right for all skin types. Take some time to figure out your biggest issues, which will help you determine the types of products you need to incorporate into your daily anti-aging, skincare routine. When you put a bit of effort into this routine you will quickly discover that your skin not only looks younger and healthier but that it also feels younger and healthier.

As the adage goes, the eyes are the gateways to the soul. They also let people see the wonders of the world. Unfortunately, they are also prone to health conditions that may leave you with blurred vision, or worse, blind.

One of the most common eye conditions people suffer from is cataract. According to the National Eye Institute, the risk of having cataract increases with each decade of life. This starts at around 40 years old and half of Americans are projected to have cataract by the age of 75.

In Singapore, an estimated 78.6 percent of elderly patients suffer from cataracts. As people grow older, the incidence of cataract also increases. For instance, cataract affects about 63.6 percent of people aged 60 to 64 years old. However, by 75 years old, it increases to 94.6 percent, as reported by the National University Hospital, Singapore.

What Is A Cataract?

A cataract is characterized by the clouding of the normally clear lens of the eyes. For those suffering from this eye condition, they can see through the cloudy lenses and they define it like looking through a fogged-up window.

What Are The Lenses?

The lens is a clear part of the eye that works by focusing light or even an image on the retina. As the lens is elastic, it has the ability to change its shape like getting bigger to focus nearby objects and thinner for distant objects.

The lens should be transparent so that light can easily pass through it. In cataract, the lens become cloudy, impeding the flow of light.

What Are The Causes Of Cataract?

There are many causes of cataract formation. One of the major causes of cataract is aging. As people grow older, they become more predisposed in developing this eye condition. Diabetes may also lead to cataract development. Other causes include eye injury, genetics, radiation, smoking, drinking, glaucoma, eye inflammation and infection.

How Is It Treated?

When a person develops cataract, he or she should visit an eye centre for thorough examination. In the early stages of the disease, there are many precautionary measures to do in order to curb its progression. These include wearing better eyeglasses, using magnifying lenses, protecting the eyes with sunglasses and providing better lighting.

However, in the late stages, the cataract needs to be removed through eye surgery. This is recommended if the blurred vision hinders common activities like walking, reading or watching TV.

A surgery is done by an eye care professional in the hospital. For those individuals who have cataracts on both eyes, the surgery is done on one eye before the other.

Vision is an important part of life as it is needed in most activities. Cataracts can be prevented but if they’re inevitable, consulting an eye doctor every now and then is important. They will help you protect your eyes and avoid activities that may make the condition worse.