How Suntelligent Are You?
August 30, 2010
According to a recent survey by the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), most people are concerned about skin cancer, however, their attitudes and behaviors are hardly in line with their concerns. According to the online survey Suntelligence: How Smart is Your City?, 80 percent of respondents professed to be concerned about skin cancer while 75 percent said they would do anything to prevent it. Yet, 72 percent indicated a belief that a tan makes people look more attractive, and two-thirds of the respondents said that a tan makes people look healthier. Sixty percent agreed that sun exposure is good for a person. Moreover, 28 percent of the survey’s respondents said that they never checked moles and skin blemishes for changes.
P.S. Fifty-nine percent of the respondents to the survey mentioned above have never been checked for skin cancer by a health care professional and 70 percent did not apply sunscreen on an average day despite AAF recommendations.
Red in the Face
August 25, 2010
Acne can persist into adulthood, triggered by a menstrual cycle, menopause, pregnancy, and stress. However, this skin problem is often confused with rosacea, which occurs when tiny blood vessels in the face become dilated and inflamed. Rosacea usually afflicts fair-skinned individuals over age 30, and it can be triggered by alcohol, exercise, temperature extremes, and hot or spicy foods. The dermatologist can make the proper diagnosis and prescribe suitable treatment. Adult-acne treatment usually begins with an over-the-counter product containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid used for up to twelve weeks. If necessary, a topical antibiotic (sometimes combined with a topical retinoid) may be prescribed. For rosacea, two prescription antimicrobial drugs (metronidazole or azelaic) are prescribed to control eruptions.
The Villages Office