Is Skin Cancer More Common in Balding Men?

Yes, according to statistics, it’s highly likely. Studies show that bald men have a higher rate of actinic keratosis, a pre-malignant lesion that looks like a crusty scab. Sometimes, one of these thick crusts on the scalp can turn into squamous cell carcinoma, the second most common type of skin cancer. Thankfully, it’s not melanoma, the most aggressive form of skin cancer, but it’s still serious.

So, how can you detect actinic keratosis if you’re a balding man?

These lesions appear pinkish and feel a bit rough compared to healthy skin. They usually show up in men aged 50-60, but since your scalp is more exposed to the sun, they might appear earlier. If you spot one of these lesions on your scalp, see a dermatologist to check if it’s actinic keratosis. There’s a 6-10% chance of it turning into skin cancer, and while that may seem small, it’s better to catch it early.

What Can You Do About It?

If you’re worried about baldness and skin cancer, talk to your dermatologist. They can examine your scalp and skin for any lesions, some of which might be small and hard to spot.

If actinic keratosis is detected, you’ll have various treatment options, such as cryotherapy, laser therapy, or topical creams.

It’s also crucial to use sun protection on your head, especially your scalp. Use non-greasy sprayed sunscreen to avoid burns, and whenever possible, wear a sunhat, particularly during summer and peak sunlight hours.

Don’t forget to cover or apply sunscreen to your ears. Men are more at risk of skin cancer on the ears compared to women, so make sure to protect them too.

Conclusion

Bald men are at a higher risk for certain types of skin cancer, so it’s important to take precautions. Regular dermatologist visits, using sun protection, and being aware of any changes in your skin can help you stay ahead of any potential issues.

References: Li, W. Q., Cho, E., Han, J., Weinstock, M. A., & Qureshi, A. A. (2016). Male pattern baldness and risk of incident skin cancer in a cohort of men. International Journal of Cancer, 139(12), 2671-2678.

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What is Willow Bark Extract?

Also known as Basket Willow or Black Willow, willow bark extract comes from various types of willow trees. It has long been used for its ability to reduce fever and pain, working similarly to aspirin because it contains salicin, a compound with a similar structure and function to aspirin.

Benefits for Your Skin

Willow bark extract offers a range of benefits for your skin:

• Fights Acne: Most types of acne involve inflammation. Salicin in willow bark extract has impressive exfoliating and anti-inflammatory properties, making it highly effective in combating acne.
• Reduces Oil Production: Our skin’s oil glands produce sebum, which is important for maintaining moisture and shine. However, too much sebum can clog pores and lead to oily skin. Willow bark extract helps reduce excess oil, making it great for both your face and scalp.
• Controls Inflammation: As an anti-inflammatory agent, willow bark extract is very useful for managing allergies and inflammation. It contains salicin and tannins, which improve skin tone and glow while countering inflammation.
• Minimizes Enlarged Pores: Willow bark extract has astringent properties that can help shrink large pores. The tannins in the extract control oil production and tighten the skin, reducing the appearance of large pores on your face and around your nose.
• Reduces Fine Lines and Wrinkles: Flavonoids in willow bark extract act as potent antioxidants, fighting against free radicals that speed up the aging process. These unstable molecules react with healthy tissues, causing damage over time. The antioxidants in willow bark extract neutralize free radicals, slowing down skin aging.
• Soothes Irritation and Dryness: The anti-inflammatory properties of willow bark extract help calm and soothe the skin, reducing irritation and dryness. Regular use can leave your skin looking shiny and smooth.

Conclusion

Willow bark extract is incredibly beneficial for various skin conditions, including acne, rosacea, eczema, and more. Its ability to reduce redness, control excess sebum production, alleviate inflammation, and soothe irritation makes it a valuable ingredient in skincare products.

References:
Munaron, L. M., Bassino, E., & Gasparri, F. (2018). Pleiotropic effects of white willow bark and 1, 2
decanediol on human adult keratinocytes

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Is the Risk of Premature Aging High?

Is the risk significant enough to reconsider using benzoyl peroxide? Who should use it, and who should avoid it? Let’s delve into the details.

Pros and Cons of Benzoyl Peroxide

Like other synthetic substances, benzoyl peroxide comes with both benefits and drawbacks. Understanding these can help you make an informed decision.

Pros of Benzoyl Peroxide

• Powerful Anti-Inflammatory: Benzoyl peroxide acts as a potent anti-inflammatory, clearing bacteria from your pores and controlling inflammation.
• Effective Against Acne: It quickly clears blemishes and kills acne-causing bacteria, drying out pimples and improving skin appearance rapidly.

Cons of Benzoyl Peroxide

• Dries Out the Skin: While it dries out pimples, it can also dehydrate healthy skin, causing irritation and making your skin look older. This effect can be mitigated with a moisturizer, but this may not be an option early in your acne treatment.
• Increases Sun Sensitivity: Benzoyl peroxide can reduce your skin’s natural protection, making it more sensitive to sunlight and increasing the risk of photoaging. You can counter this by avoiding sun exposure and applying the treatment when not exposed to sunlight.
• May Cause Pigmentation Issues: Some users report hyperpigmentation due to increased sun sensitivity and skin dryness.

The Ongoing Debate

Aside from the listed pros and cons, there are numerous opinions and unproven claims online. Some say benzoyl peroxide increases free radical production and damage, leading to long-term wrinkling, although long-term studies are lacking.

Wrinkling and skin aging are often exacerbated by UV damage, and benzoyl peroxide can speed up this process by reducing your skin’s UV defenses. This damage to collagen fibers leads to lost skin elasticity. On the other hand, untreated acne can result in scarring and prominent facial lines.

If you’re unsure about using benzoyl peroxide, consult your dermatologist. Discuss your concerns and follow their advice on applying acne treatment to prevent premature skin aging. Balancing the treatment of acne with the potential for skin aging is key to maintaining healthy skin.

References:
Callender, V. D., Preston, N., Osborn, C., Johnson, L., & Gottschalk, R. W. (2010). A meta-analysis to investigate the relation between Fitzpatrick skin types and tolerability of adapalene-benzoyl peroxide topical gel in subjects with mild or moderate acne. The Journal of clinical and aesthetic
dermatology, 3(8), 15

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So, why does sunlight trigger rosacea?

Those bright and lively beams from the sun are known triggers for rosacea. Rosacea is more common in extreme sun weather and usually appears in areas of uncovered skin. It’s also more prominent in fair-skinned people who are more susceptible to UV rays.

The reason is pretty straightforward. UV radiation causes heat and boosts circulation in the skin, making blood vessels more noticeable. This can lead to significant redness and acne-like outbreaks on the face.

High-energy UV beams are mostly to blame for sunburns, DNA damage, and reduced skin elasticity. They also cause photoaging, wrinkles, age spots, and photosensitivity, among other issues. Continued sun exposure leads to major skin changes, mostly harmful ones.

In rosacea, at least two of these changes can cause a flare-up:

• UVB rays increase skin heat and expand blood vessels, leading to red lines in the skin (telangiectasia) and facial flushing.
• Sunlight exposure induces certain substances in the skin, some beneficial, but others like the LL-37 peptide trigger rosacea.

Am I Likely to Be Affected by Sunlight Exposure?

About 80% of rosacea patients are affected by sunlight exposure, but it really depends on your type of rosacea and skin susceptibility. A study in Korea with over 170 rosacea patients found that sunlight caused more blood vessels, redness, and flushing, especially in the erythematotelangiectatic subtype. However, it didn’t impact those with subtypes 2, 3, and 4.

As temperatures rise, rosacea worsens. Heat, UV rays, or a combination of both can exacerbate your rosacea. Therefore, sun protection is essential. If you have rosacea, apply sunscreen, wear a hat, and avoid direct sunlight as much as possible. This advice isn’t just for those with rosacea; it’s good for anyone looking to slow down skin aging.

References:

Bae, Y. I., Yun, S. J., Lee, J. B., Kim, S. J., Won, Y. H., & Lee, S. C. (2009). Clinical evaluation of 168 Korean patients with rosacea: the sun exposure correlates with the erythematotelangiectatic subtype. Annals of dermatology, 21(3), 243-249.

Jaworek, A. K., Wojas-Pelc, A., & Pastuszczak, M. (2008). Aggravating factors of rosacea. Przeglad lekarski, 65(4), 180.

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But hey, what if there was a way to get even more out of your existing products, minus a jar of Vaseline? Here comes “Skin Flooding”, the latest skincare trend taking TikTok by storm (and for good reason!). Winter breezes, indoor climate control and fluctuating hormones particularly near or in menopause can have you turning to richer creams and denser serums, longing to revive our thirsty skin. But fear not, a hydrating skincare regimen is here to save the day, ensuring our skin stays moisturized and radiant.

What is Skin Flooding, Exactly?

Skin flooding is all about layering your skin with a variety of products designed to “flood” the skin with a number of different textures and viscosities of skin products, all packed with different actives and molecules that react and penetrate diffently on the skin barrier. Sound familiar? There’s a reason why skin flooding borrows some ideas from slugging, another popular trend.

But here’s the beauty of skin flooding: it’s easy, safe, and addresses a real concern many of us face: dehydrated, dull skin. Unlike some trends that disappear faster than you can say “What were we thinking?”, skin flooding has staying power. Experts agree it’s a simple and effective way to lock in moisture and get that glowy, healthy look we all crave.

The ultimate goal is to deeply quench your skin. To achieve that plump and radiant complexion you deserve that makes you look like you just walked out of a spa (even if you haven’t left your house in days). The “affluent” look as we like to call it.

Steps to Start

Forget crazy contraptions or bizarre ingredients; skin flooding is all about strategic layering. It’s like creating a personal hydration oasis for your skin. Here’s the gist of every step:

Grab a Gentle Cleanser

Start with a gentle cleanser that removes gunk without stripping your natural oils. We recommend using ZENMED Gentle Cleansing Cream as it is fragrance-free and does not irritate sensitive skin. Its mild formula works wonders by removing dirt from the face, eyes, and lip areas. Think of it as creating a clean canvas for your hydrating masterpiece.

Damp is Your Friend

Don’t go all towel-ninja on your face, pat it with a warm damp towel instead. Damp skin acts like a sponge, soaking up all those good-for-you ingredients in your products.

Spritz A Dose of Nutrition

Now spritz your skin with a layer of Nutrient Boost Spray, a hyper hydrating spray designed to indulge skin with a dosage of power packed botanicals.

Hyaluronic Acid: Power Molecule

This superstar ingredient is a humectant like glycerin, meaning it attracts and holds onto water molecules like a champ. B5 Hyaluronic Plumping Serum is recommended for achieving long-term plumping and hyper-hydrating effects. Use it twice daily as it has added panthenol , vitamin B5, a hyper-potent vitamin that helps support the skin barrier and keep it calm. Now apply a few drops of hyaluronic acid serum to your bare damp skin. Leave it moist!

Lock it In

Finally, seal in all that moisture with a good moisturizer or cream. Try using our Omegaceramide+ Recovery Moisturizer. It has glyceryl stearate, which locks the water molecules inside the skin and forms a barrier by trapping them. Think of it as putting a lid on your hydration jar. And don’t forget the sunscreen (Solar Defense Lotion SPF 50) to keep skin looking young and healthy for the long term.

Skin Flooding: Not For Everyone?

Skin flooding is generally safe for most skin types, but there are a few things to keep in mind.

Sensitive Skin? Patch Test First

Since this routine increases product penetration, be cautious if you have sensitive skin. Do a patch test on a small area of your face before diving headfirst.

Oily or Acne-Prone Skin? Tread Carefully

Layering multiple products might not be your best friend if you have oily or acne-prone skin. Chat with a dermatologist to see if skin flooding is the right fit for you.

Flood Your Skin with Benefits

Now to recap…

• Hydration Hero –  Hyaluronic acid acts like a tiny sponge, keeping your skin plump and dewy.
• Soothe the Savage Beast – A healthy moisturizing spray based in water helps keeps the skin damp in between steps
• Barrier Boss – The final layer of moisturizer helps strengthen your skin’s barrier, keeping all that good hydration in.
• Product Powerhouse – Layering products in the right order allows each one to work its magic more effectively. Start with the thinner consistency, then apply a thick product at the end.

Skin Flooding is an Overnight Sensation (literally!)

Skin flooding is a simple yet powerful technique to give your dry, dull skin a major glow. By strategically layering hydrating products on damp skin, you can create a reservoir of moisture that leaves your complexion looking healthy and radiant. Remember, if you have any concerns, consult a dermatologist. And when it comes to choosing products, keep your skin type in mind. Now go forth, grab your favorite hydrating heroes, and get ready to flood your skin with moisture for a healthy, happy glow!

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Hey Skincare Strugglers, Skin Cycling Might Be Your New Obsession (In a Good Way!)

Let’s face it, navigating the skincare world can feel like wandering through a jungle blindfolded looking for a celebrity to take you by the hand and bail you out. A million products promise the moon and stars, conflicting advice swirls around like mosquitoes, and you’re left wondering what on earth to put on your face to just simply make it look “better”. But fear not fellow skincare wanderers because there’s a new kid on the block that might just be your saving grace: skin cycling. Yes, that dewy, luxurious “Korean glass skin” look that prioritizes deep hydration, invisible pores, with absolutely no imperfections – all things skin cycling promotes perfectly step by step.

What’s the Deal with Skin Cycling?

Skin cycling is a simplified skincare routine designed to target skin damage like dark spots and acne scars, premature aging, sun damage and more. It involves strategically using powerful ingredients on specific nights, followed by rest nights for your skin. It is just like a four-night workout plan for your face. You alternate between using exfoliants and retinol (to tackle wrinkles and uneven skin tone), followed by recovery nights focusing on deep hydration with hyaluronic acid and nourishing moisturizers. This approach helps maximize the benefits of these ingredients while keeping your skin happy, balanced, and glowy (meaning luscious and hydrated). We call it the “affluent skin look”.

• Chemical Exfoliants: AHAs (glycolic acid, lactic acid) and BHAs (salicylic acid) are popular options. Start with lower percentages if you have sensitive skin.

• Hyaluronic Acid Serums: Look for lightweight serums packed with hyaluronic acid to deeply hydrate your skin.

• Moisturizers: Choose nourishing moisturizers with ingredients like ceramides and squalane to lock in moisture and strengthen your skin barrier.

• Retinol: Not to be confused with retinoid. This powerhouse ingredient comes in various strengths. As your skin adjusts, start with a lower dose and gradually increase.

Imagine a skincare routine that delivers results without the overwhelming ten-step extravaganza. That’s the beauty of skin cycling. This method is all about giving your skin some TLC—strategically!

Why Cycle Your Skincare You Ask?

Skin cycling is like a personalized training program for your face. You alternate between using powerful ingredients like exfoliants and retinol (wrinkle fighters), followed by recovery nights to let your skin recharge. This way, you get the benefits of these superhero products without pushing your skin to its limits and causing unpleasant reactions.

The Four-Night Skin Cycling Groove

Here’s a sneak peek into the four-night skin cycling routine:

Night 1: Buff It Out!

• Night one is all about gentle exfoliation. This can be done chemically using a light glycolic acid product (try Glycolic Resurfacer) or a manual scrub. Think of it like a super soft scrub that buffs away dead skin cells, leaving your skin smoother and ready to soak up all the good stuff from other products. It’s prepping the canvas for your skincare masterpiece! Try just a gentle buff to remove any dry flaky skin. We recommend the Organic Cream Exfoliator or Microdermabrasion Scrub.

Night 2: Retinol Rescue!

• Tonight, we unleash the power of retinol! This superhero tackles fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone like a boss. Try 1% Retinol Booster Serum. Apply a tiny amount after cleansing, followed by a layer of moisturizer to seal it all in. Try Omegaceramide+ Recover Moisturizer. New to retinol? Start slow, like once a week, and gradually increase as your skin gets used to it.

Night 3 & 4: Recharge and Rebuild

• These nights are for pure pampering. We focus on hydration and repair with a gentle cleanser, a hyaluronic acid serum (think of it as a moisture magnet!), and a nourishing moisturizer. Try B5 Hyaluronic Plumping Serum and Omegaceramide+ Recovery Moisturizer. Extra luxurious effect for drier skin types is to pat in a layer of oil, like our Omegaceramide+ Elixir in Oil.

Skin Cycling Essentials

Here are some product recommendations to get you started with skin cycling (remember to consult a dermatologist for personalized advice):

• Chemical Exfoliant: Look for options containing AHAs (glycolic, lactic acid) or BHAs (salicylic acid). Choose the strength based on your skin type and tolerance.

• Retinol: Start with a low concentration and gradually increase as your skin adjusts.

• Gentle Cleanser: For use every day. This will remove makeup and impurities without stripping your skin’s natural oils. Try Gentle Cleansing Cream.

Why Should You Give Skin Cycling a High-Five?

Here’s why skin cycling might just become your holy grail skincare routine:

• Less Irritation, More Glow: By strategically using active ingredients with recovery nights, you say goodbye to the redness and irritation that can come from overdoing it. Hello happy glowy skin!

• Double Whammy of Power: Exfoliation preps your skin for better absorption of powerhouse ingredients like retinol, making them work even harder for that flawless look.

• Balanced Results: You get the benefits of exfoliation, retinol, and deep hydration, all in a balanced routine that caters to your skin’s unique needs. No more overdoing it or freaking out about what products to use when!

• Simplify Your Life: Ditch the ten-step product overload and save your sanity and cash. Skin cycling offers a streamlined approach that’s easy to remember and maintain. No more spending hours in front of the mirror wondering what goes on next.

Is Skin Cycling Your Perfect Match?

While skin cycling can be a game-changer for many, it’s important to listen to your skin. The following are some points to remember:

• Skin Type Matters: Oily and combination skin types tend to love skin cycling. Sensitive skin might need a gentler approach, maybe starting with one active ingredient at a time.

• Talk to Your Skin Guru: Dermatologists are the skincare experts! A dermatologist can assess your specific concerns and recommend the best approach, including whether skin cycling is a perfect fit for you.

The Final Verdict on Skin Cycling

Skin cycling offers a fantastic way to achieve a healthy, balanced complexion. Remember, consistency is key! Stick with the routine for a few weeks to see noticeable results. Most importantly, listen to your skin and prioritize sun protection – sunscreen is your BFF, no matter your chosen routine. So, ditch the overwhelming product overload and embrace the power of strategic simplicity with skin cycling! Your skin will thank you for it.

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Will Certain Foods Improve Skin Moisture Levels?

It turns out my logic was spot on…at least this time! It is believed that the water you consume from food releases more slowly into the body. As a result, your water intake from food stays in your body significantly longer than the water you drink and your skin will look better from enhanced hydration.

A 2009 study from the University of Aberdeen showed that foods such as watermelon and cucumber are twice as effective after working out over water. Foods with high concentrations of water also provide you with essential vitamins and nutrients that are lost in a workout. This is not to say you should replace drinking water with eating water entirely, however it is highly likely to be extremely advantageous to eat foods high in water content in addition to your daily water consumption for better-looking skin .

Foods High in Water Concentration

Below are a list of the solid foods with the highest concentration of water. You will see the percentages of water by the weight of the food item in parentheses following the name of the food item:

• Baby Carrots (90.4%) – Snacktacular!

• Bell Peppers (93.9%) – Crudite anyone?

• Broccoli (90.7%) – Soups, sides, veggie plate, and more.

• Cantaloupe (90.2%) – Breakfast and fruit salad are two options.

• Cauliflower (92.1%) – Have you tried cauliflower rice yet?

• Cherry and Grape Tomatoes (94.5%) – Salads and entrees.

• Celery (95.4%) – One for the mise en place and one for your mouth.

• Cucumbers (96.7%) – Highest water content of all!

• Grapefruit (90.5%) – Breakfast or juice.

• Iceberg Lettuce (95.6%) – It may not be flashy in nutrients, however it is not too shabby for hydration purposes.

• Radishes (95.3%) – Try it like the French, sliced on a piece of bread and salted butter. Or, toss them into salads.  

• Spinach (91.4%) – Throw into nearly any entree or swap for any other greens.

• Strawberries (91%) – Add to your morning yogurt.

• Watermelon (91.5%) – Eat it all day long when it is in season. You will not need help shoveling it in.

• Zucchini (95%) – Raw or in entrees, both are delish.

And, additional benefits to eating your water intake is that you reduce the number of plastic water bottles you purchase that are not good for the environment and the water inside food can often be less harmful than water from certain sources.

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