The Skin Guide

The professional skin guide shares behind the scenes insights, top-tips and guidance on common dermatological conditions, and the most effective treatments

#Acne #Congested Skin #Oily-Skin #Dull-Skin #Sluggish-Skin #Sensitive-Skin #Loss-of-Elasticity #Skin-Boost #Anti-Ageing

Professional Guidance

Facial Treatments

Soteria Aesthetics provides dermatological level treatments including Environ & Dead-Sea with potent ingredients including vitamins, retinol, collagen and hyaluronic acid performed by our aesthetic facialist to deliver prescriptive facials and treatment procedures. for a range of skin conditions leave your complexion healthy & glowing.

Professional Guidance

Skin-Lab

#Skin-Lab provides a range of professional skin treatments blended with expertise & creativity including – Microneedling, Dermaplaning, SPMU & Mesotherapy. Our facials are performed with a deep cleanse, exfoliation, massage and steam…bringing your healthiest skin to life.

Motivated by a passion to apply the Science of Beauty to our treatments – with prescriptive facials packed full of active ingredients, including – vitamins A, C & E, dead sea minerals, retinol, hyaluronic-acid, and collagen. Our facials are performed with deep cleanse, exfoliation steam to leave your complexion glowing.

Prescriptive

Skin Problems

Breakouts

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Dry Skin

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Oily Skin

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Fine Lines

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Hyperpigmentation

Peeling helps treat hyperpigmentation and melasma caused by the following – hormones, medication, sun damage or skin trauma. It works by disintegrating abnormal pigments in the skin, particularly superficial hyperpigmentation and skin with uneven skin tones on most skin types. We recommend a course of 3-6 treatments depending on the level of photodamage.

Alternative options include:

Skin-lightening agents (e.g., hydroquinone: inhibits conversion of dopa to melanin)
Cysteamine or Azelaic acid or Ascorbic acid (vitamin C)
Chemical peels containing glycolic acid or trichloroacetic acid

Acne Scars

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Sensitive Skin

Marine based treatments with seaweed contains lots of vitamins and minerals, and behave like emollients that reduce irritation and sooth sensitive skin conditions

Dull Complexion

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Thickened +/- Flaky Skin

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Sun-Damaged

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FACIALS VS. PEELS

FACIALS

Soteria believes that aesthetic excellence is attributable to a merger of knowledge, skill & creativity – Our luxurious facials with potent ingredients, deep-cleansing, exfoliation & steam reawaken tired/dull skin, for a brighter more youthful complexion; are performed by our Environ facial specialist. If you suffer with dry/sensitive skin use a non-invasive moisturising facial free from harsh chemicals /exfoliants; use Vit-E, jojoba oil & hyaluronic acid (HA) to restore your skin’s moisture barrier.

PEELS

Soteria provide a range of peels including – lactic acid, glycolic acid, salicylic acid, mandelic acid, trichloroacetic acid, kojic acid, malic acid and pyruvic acid. Ideal for tackling skin problems thanks to there exfoliating properties that help – unclog pores, remove excess oil, reduce pigmentation, minimise fine-lines and accelerate the removal of dead-cells thus promote a more youthful rejuvenated complexion. Post treatments your skin will be healthier, smoother, firmer & more hydrated.

Professional Guidance

Selecting a Skin Treatment

TOP 10 FACIALS

Ceramides

Ceramides: are natural oils that constitute approx. 50% of the skin’s natural barrier making them effective emollients, when level decline the skins protective barrier weakens and moisture escapes, leading to dehydration and increased sensitivity. Topical ceramides help prevent this to maintain healthy and plump skin

Retinol

Retinol is a derivative of vitamin A that’s often used in skin treatments, due to ability to stimulate collagen production…thus smoothing and firming, triggering cell turnover and the skins renewal process, thus retinol is effective at smoothing fine lines and fading hyperpigmentation, thus enhances both the texture and tone of your complexion

Collagen Boost

Provides a classic Bambi like appearance, looks great clients with wide set eyes, or with a high brow arch

CST

Microneedling is a term used interchangeably with Collagen Induction Therapy (CIT) – a minimally invasive treatment that involves the use of a medical grade roller with fine needles on it that is worked over an area of skin to help stimulate the production of collagen,

How does it work?
Microneedling works by stimulating our body’s natural collagen production system.

During the treatment, tiny micro-needles (sharp fine needles) on the medical grade roller are moved systematically over the chosen treatment area. The fine needles create evenly spaced micro-punctures in the skin. The tiny-punctures created micro-damage within the skin, which triggers the body’s natural collagen production. Over next few months after the treatment the amoun to focollagen in the skin will increase giving the skin a revitalised, plumper and smoother looking appearance – CST sessions take approx. 45 – 60 minutes.

There are various needle sizes that are used to treat different skin concerns; shorter needles penetrate the surface of the skin whereas longer needles penetrate much deeper.

5-1.0 mm treat aging by stimulating collagen
5–2 mm needles are beneficial for acne treatment

Prior to treatment, topical anaesthetic will be applied thereby reducing any pain and discomfort.

Some treatments are combined with radiofrequency, light therapy, vitamin serums or platelet rich plasma (PRP) to enhance the result for certain conditions such as hair loss, acne treatments or anti-aging treatments.

What is it like?
Some people describe Collagen Induction Therapy as is virtually a painless technique with a slight ‘tingling sensation’. That said, some find it painful and usually the practitioner will apply a topical anaesthetic 20 minutes before the treatment to eliminate any potential pain.

Recovery time –
The recovery time of the treatment depends on the length of needles used.
The average downtime of the treatment is between 12 – 72 hours.
There may be a bit of redness and swelling.

Side effects –
The most common side effect of Collagen Induction Therapy is redness to the skin; however, the following may also occur – bleeding, scabbing, bruising, dry-skin or millia.

After care: Use only lukewarm to clean the face for up to 48 hours. Try to avoid rubbing at the skin harshly.
Do not pick at scabs or touch the treated area to avoid the risk of infection. Make sure your hands are clean before touching your face.
Conventional make up should not be worn for 12 hours but those that are approved for post-cosmetic treatments, such as Oxygenetix may be used.
Apply SPF immediately after the treatment.

Contraindications: You have used isotretinoin (prescription strength retinol) in the last 3 months
You are pregnant
You are breast feeding
Have poor wound healing or are on anticoagulant therapies
You have cold sores (herpes simplex)
Have open wounds
If you have had chemotherapy or radiotherapy in the 12 months
You are prone to keloid scarring
You have active acne
You have moderate to severe eczema or psoriasis.

Price – Are typically between £200- £350 per course.

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL)

IPL uses broad-spectrum light to target a range of skin conditions – Unlike lasers which use a single wavelength of light, IPL releases multiple wavelengths with quick pulses, thus it is effective at treating a range of skin problems simultaneously, making it a popular choice globally. IPL targets the skins deeper layers without harming the skins surface. The light energy is absorbed by specific pigments in the skin (e.g., melanin and haemoglobin) where energy is converted to heat facilitating the destruction or stimulation of cellular components.

Indications: Include the following –

Acne – IPL can help to manage acne by reducing inflammation and destroying the bacteria that drives acne.
Sun damage – IPL minimises photo-damage including sun spots and uneven skin tone
Rosacea – it can reduce redness and minimise dilated blood vessels leaving your skin looking clearer and healthier
Fine lines & Wrinkles: IPL stimulates collagen production, which can improve skin texture, reduce fine lines and revitalise your appearance

The Process : During an IPL treatment process begins with the application of a cooling gel, your facialist then uses an IPL device to emit pulses of light onto specific areas, the procedure involves minimum discomfort however, you may may experience a warm sensation. An initial safety test is performed prior to the treatment to determine the most comfortable and effect settings for your skin.

Growth Factors

Growth factors, awakens your natural regenerative processes, and strengthens your skin. After exfoliation, epidermal micro-needling is performed to activate the skin’s healing response and maximise the penetration of a potent growth factor serum, we then apply a repairing treatment mask.

Mesotherapy

TBC

Serum Treatments

Ceramides: sooth and calm the skin where they are naturally present but commonly lacking in eczema
Hyaluronic Acid: a hydrating staple is another acid is an optimum treatment choice since it helps pull in extra moisture to the skin.
Colloidal Oatmeal: is comprised of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory plant chemicals that calm itchy skin.
Niacinamide (i.e., vitamin B3) helps minimise fine lines, pores and tone; helps strengthen the skins barrier typically compromised in eczema
Humectants: is a good for barrier repair
Natural Botanical Oils: Plant-based oils, like jojoba, rosehip, coconut, and geranium, will deeply penetrate the skin to help relieve dryness.

HydraFacial

Hydrodermabrasion uses modern skincare technology that has grown more popular than traditional crystal based microdermabrasion by utilising water jets to exfoliate the outer layer of the skin to reveal a smoother more even texture. This is perfect for people who want to exfoliate but have extremely sensitive skin. Our resurfacing procedure thoroughly cares for your skin, providing cleansing, exfoliation, extractions and hydration including antioxidants, peptides and hyaluronic acid.

Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is good for restoring the skin’s moisture barrier to provide an extra layer of protection reducing irritation and dryness; HA is a favourite with dermatologists due to its ability to retain moisture unfortunately this naturally produced acid declines with age thus needs replenishing

TOP 10 PEELS

Lactic Acid

Lactic acid (from sour milk) is another type of water soluble AHA (alpha-hydroxy acid). We typically use 10% + HA 2% strength i.e., medium strength AHA, the molecules are not as small as glycolic acids molecules. Thus, it is a gentler alternative to glycolic acid. Renowned for its effectiveness at removing the surface layer of skin to reveal a smoother, and brighter complexion, and brighter surface.

Lactic Vs Glycolic: LA is more gentle and effective for treating sun damaged skin.
Indication: compatible with
Aftercare: avoid prolonged sun exposure or sunbeds for 48 hours afterwards.

Lactic Acid is known for its ability to penetrate the skin slower than other AHAs with smaller molecules such as Glycolic Acid. As a result, this provides a more gentle exfoliation that resurfaces the uppermost layers of the skin. This also makes it more gentle and effective of sensitive skin type.

Glycolic Acid

Glycolic acid has tiny molecules that can penetrate deeper, so this is the strongest type of water-soluble alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) that is produced from sugar cane. give skin a deep exfoliation and wonderful glow. Soteria Aesthetics provide glycolic-acid peels in three strengths (e.g., 10%, 20% or 40%) however, we start with the lowest level to assess your skins tolerance before considering increasing the strength to ensure we protect your skin, preventing irritation or discomfort. The process entails a 45 min treatment, including a deep cleanse and deep exfoliation. Our peels are performed after a consultation & analyses of your skin type by our facial specialist.

Exfoliation level: is up to 3 levels for optimum re-surfacing
Indication: compatible with most skin types, apart from extremely sensitive skin.
Aftercare: avoid prolonged sun exposure or sunbeds for 48 hours afterwards

Lacpamgel

Is a gentle, but effective peeling gel with excellent exfoliation properties, it does not leave your skin peeling or red, as it works on the surface layers of the skin only. Lacpamgel was designed to improve very dry, thickened, uneven skin, and is effective on some forms of pigmentation. The treatment includes a deep cleanse in advance. The exfoliation results in much smoother, more refined skin with less visibility of fine lines. Following a Lacpamgel peel it is safe to go in the sun soon afterwards wearing protection, making it a perfect pre-holiday facial prep.

Obagi

This dermatological level peel is performed with a low concentration of chemical trichloroacetic acid (TCA) mixed with a base. A distinguishing feature with his type of peel, is how the levels of layers peeled can be regulated by your skin-specialist. Typically, its used to treat surface layers of skin, encouraging new cell-turnover, making it a good choice of anti-ageing & skin resurfacing treatment. The procedure is performed by our practitioners who have specialist training & experience in Obagi peels.

Cosmelan

Cosmelan peel helps target and treat hyperpigmentation and melasma, common conditions caused by one of the following – hormones, medication, sun damage or skin trauma. It works by disintegrating abnormal pigments in the skin, particularly superficial hyperpigmentation and skin with uneven skin tones on most skin types. We recommend a course of 3-6 treatments depending on the level of photodamage.

Retinoic Acid

Retinoids form the cornerstone of acne management – Soteria Aesthetics vitamin-A peels are superficial intraepidermal level chemical peel composed of active retinoic acid which is effective at treating the following skin conditions:

The time from treatment to full recovery is typically 1- 4 days for results that last 8-12-weeks. Vitamin-A peels consist of high strength retinoic acid, a potent molecule that stimulates collagen production to slow the signs of face aging treatments, afterwards there is commonly mild peeling up to 4-days. As a reference, the concentration of retinol is approximately 100 times that of over-the-counter creams.

Vitamin-C

Vitamin C An essential co-factor in collagen synthesis, it is the main cellular antioxidant protecting the skin against oxidative stress and support cellular regeneration. A potent antioxidant that neutralizes free radicals, aids skin’s natural regeneration, helps to repair damaged skin cells. It also improves – acne, uneven skin tone, rough texture, fine lines, acne scars, lack-lustre skin. Alongside superior brightening effect, that can fade pigmentation marks without altering the skins normal pigment; resulting in smooth, brighter complexions. This free-radical-fighting power helps prevent premature aging at bay, neutralizing free radicals, and protecting the skin during UV exposure; boosts the production of collagen and elastin (protein fibres that keep skin plump & firm); helping to prevent premature skin aging. It is protective during UV light exposure, as it inhibits excess melanin production which can cause hyperpigmentation. It also has healing properties and brightens the skin, leaving a radiant glow. Vitamin C comes in different forms, ascorbic acid (or L-ascorbic acid), is the most stable and effective form of vitamin C, and equally the most effective at penetrating the skin barrier. Those with sensitive skin may experience redness or irritation from vitamin C, those with sensitive skin should start with lower concentration.

Salicylic Acid

Salicylic acid – BHA (beta hydroxy acids) can be completely game-changing for oily and blemish-prone skin, it penetrates the skins deeper layers to dissolve sebum and debris while calming inflammation with its anti-bacterial properties.

Its ability to combat excess oil and decongest blockages reducing breakouts makes it an excellent exfoliant to your rejuvenate complexion, with anti-aging benefits including accelerated cell turnover, sloughing off dead skin cells and minimising fine lines, for a more radiant and youthful complexion.

Environ

Environ’s Acne Pees- is suitable for those who suffer from active acne or acne rosacea, a course of 3-6 peeling sessions may be necessary for optimum results; the homecare range, recommended in advance for skin not yet adapted to the strength of Environs potent active ingredients.

Exfoliating Peels

The Environ exfoliating peel range is developed specifically for gentle regular peeling to smooth and brighten the skin. The strength of the peel can be varied, which enables us to create bespoke treatments for clients. This facial uses a low-level acid which deliver measurable results without irritating the skin. They are effective with skin problems such as congested, sun damaged, or problematic skin.

Specialised Serums: Environ serums target specifically problematical skin:

Dull Skin
Sensitive Skin
De-hydrated Skin
Ageing-Skin
Lack Lustre Skin

TCA

A Trichloroacetic acid chemical peel (e.g., 35% TCA) breaks down damaged skin cells and induces formation of healthy new cells, improving texture, reducing pore size, fading pigmentation and scarring, and softening lines – TCA is a medium depth peel that does cause noticeable redness and exfoliation.

We use TCA peel in different concentrations to be either a superficial (20 –30%) or medium depth peel (30 –50%). The exact percentage we use depends on the patient’s age, the amount of skin rejuvenation required and their skin colour or Fitzpatrick skin number. We most commonly use TCA 35% concentration

Professional Guidance

Skin Conditions

Rosacea

ROSACEA:
Rosacea is a common skin condition affecting the face, predominantly it affects fair-skinned females, it can persist for a long time with mild to severe flare ups. Rosacea mostly affects the cheeks, forehead, chin, and nose or rarely, and rarely the neck and chest. Signs include- persistent redness d/t dilated blood vessels, small bumps, and pus-filled spots similar to acne. There may also be uncomfortable redness may irritate the surface of the eyes.

1) Avoid triggers factors, follow a strict cleansing routine including cleaning pillowcases and towels daily, and wear effective sun protection, and general skincare measures. You can discuss skin camouflage services with your doctor.

2) Prescriptive topical and/or oral treatments including – Topical Brimonidine can help with persisting redness or Ivermectin or oral antibiotics (e.g., Doxycycline) helps manage papules/pustules.

3) Referral to a dermatologist should be considered if your experiencing persistent redness, papules/ pustules or telangiectasia that’s not responded to self-management

Acne Vulgaris

ACNE:
Acne is a common chronic skin condition affecting both the hair follicles and sebaceous glands, where it can lead to blockages and inflammation, it is prevalent in both males, and females during adolescence and young adulthood associated, it is classified as mild, moderate, or severe, and has an adverse psychosocial impact on sufferers.
Signs include –

Causes: Acne is due to a combination of factors. Whilst the exact mechanisms is unknown, a multitude of factors have been implicated including – Familial genetics, hormones, bacterial pathogens, inflammatory processes, blocked hair follicles.

Variants:
– Open comedones
– Comedonal acne
– Acne vulgaris
– Nodulocystic acne

Open /closed uninflamed comedones (i.e., blackheads / whiteheads; Inflamed papules + pustules; In severe cases there may be nodules and pseudocysts; Post-inflammatory erythematous or pigmented macules and scars

Testing: a diagnosis is typically made by a medical professional based on signs + symptoms, but may include skin swabs and/or hormonal tests.

Treatments Include:

– Mild (lesion count <30):
Topical anti-acne agents, such as benzoyl peroxide, azelaic acid, and tretinoin or adapalene gel.
Low-dose combined oral contraceptive
Antiseptic or keratolytic washes containing salicylic acid
Light/laser therapy

– Moderate (lesion count 30–125):
As for mild acne plus a tetracycline e.g., doxycycline 50–200 mg daily for 6/12 (Erythromycin or trimethoprim if doxycycline intolerant)
Anti-androgen therapy with long-term cyproterone acetate + ethinylestradiol or spironolactone may be considered in women not responding to COCP particularly with PCOS
Isotretinoin can be used if persistent or treatment-resistant

– Severe: (lesion count >125)
Referral to a dermatologist
If fever, arthralgia, bone pain, ulcerated or extensive skin lesions, perform FBC with urgent referral
Oral antibiotics are often used in higher doses than normal
Oral isotretinoin is usually recommended if suitable as it can lead to long-term remission

Prognosis:
Acne typically tends to improve after 25 years of age however further flares can be provoked by:

Acne Treatments Include:

IPL can help to manage acne by reducing inflammation and destroying the bacteria that drives acne.

Eczema

Atopic dermatitis also known as eczema, is a long-term inflammatory dermatitis characterised by fluctuating phases remission and relapsing, symptoms include – skin that is red, itchy and crusted with blisters that may or may not weep clear fluid; that may become chronic over time leading to thickened, scaly with cracked skin vulnerable to flare-ups.

Research has shown a hereditary allergic component commonly associated with allergic rhinitis and asthma. It is important to identify and avoid triggers or irritants (e.g., detergents, soaps, and certain types of material. It requires management by a medical professional who can prescribe overnight emollients (paraffin or olive oil) to soften/ loosen scaley skin.

Salon Treatments:

Soteria advise a non-invasive moisturising + hydrating facial, free from harsh chemicals and exfoliants that irritate/dry out eczema

Vitamins & Oils – using a combination of vitamin E & jojoba oil with steam to facilitate deeper penetration +/- hydro-facial or hyaluronic acid treatments to restore your moisture barrier
Hyaluronic acid (HA) – is good for restoring the skin’s moisture barrier, again giving you that extra layer of protection and reducing irritation caused by dryness.
Dead-Sea- marine based facials help reduce the symptoms of flushing, whilst seaweed contains lots of minerals and vitamins, and is an emollient, so good for soothing skin conditions such as eczema
Red light therapy – RLT is incredibly healing due to its ability to increase ATP production (i.e., cell repair) and boost fibroblast (i.e., collagen production) activity.
Hydro dermabrasion – is the latest renovation in skincare technology, being a great crystal free alternative to microdermabrasion. Utilizing water jets, this process breaks up the outer layer of the skin to reveal a smoother, more even texture. This is perfect for people who want to exfoliate but have extremely sensitive skin.

Medical Treatments can include the following:

Infected Eczema – Imidazole creams with hydrocortisone 1%; Salicylic acid (1%) and sulphur (1%) ointments; anti-yeast shampoos (e.g., selenium sulphide or ketoconazole). However, if the dermatitis becomes chronic you should discuss replacing topical steroids for combination treatment with Zinc & Tar.

Contact Dermatitis

Contact Dermatitis – also known as atopic dermatitis Atopic dermatitis also known as eczema, is a long-term inflammatory dermatitis characterised by fluctuating phases remission and relapsing, symptoms include – skin that is red, itchy and crusted with blisters that may or may not weep clear fluid; that may become chronic over time leading to thickened, scaly with cracked skin vulnerable to acute flare-ups. Research has shown a hereditary allergic component commonly associated with allergic rhinitis and asthma. It is important to identify and avoid triggers or irritants (e.g., detergents, soaps, and certain types of material.

It is best managed by a medical professional who can prescribe overnight emollients (paraffin or olive oil) to soften and loosen scaley skin, topical treatments can include the following:

Imidazole creams with hydrocortisone 1%; Salicylic acid (1%) and sulphur (1%) ointments; anti-yeast shampoos (e.g., selenium sulphide or ketoconazole) – However, if the dermatitis becomes chronic you should discuss replacing topical steroids for combination treatment with Zinc & Tar.

Photodermatitis

Photodermatitis:

Photosensitivity can lead to a condition called Photodermatoses, characterised by a rash in a sun-exposed distribution following exposure to sunlight, if the rash becomes eczematous (reddened) and inflamed, it is referred to as Photodermatitis. Certain medications and chemicals can act as photosensitisers triggering a photosensitive reaction.

Ageing

Treatments Include:

IPL can help combat fine lines and wrinkles by stimulating collagen production which improves skin texture, minimises fine lines and revitalises your complexion

Telangiectasias

Telangiectasia’s are enlarged vessels also referred to as spider veins, or thread veins that have become visible on the face, whites of the eyes and legs. They can stem from either genetic inheritance, or environmental factors including – Extreme Weather, PVD, Alcohol, Rosacea, Aging, Pregnancy, Sun exposure, Varicose veins, Steroid Overuse Or Trauma.

The condition can occur at any age and certain health conditions can increases the risks fortunately, telangiectasia can be effectively removed with professional laser treatment is typically used particularly for broken capillaries caused by excess sun exposure or a chronic skin condition (rosacea, mechanical trauma inc. surgery, steroid use).

Facial Telangiectasia: are tiny thin (e.g., red, purple, or blue) thread veins visible on the skins surface due to enlarged veins that appear broken and have an adverse impact individuals confidence when untreated.

Treatments:
Laser treatment is an effective method for removing thread veins, the procedure uses a laser light directed at the vein using heat to break it down, before it is removed by the body. The number of sessions required for visible results depends on the size and number of thread veins. Theis should be discussed during a consultation with your laser specialist as part of your individual treatment plan. You can always opt to trail a session before committing to a package/course.

Seborrheic Dermatitis

Seborrheic dermatitis causes moist thickened skin, with yellow scaly patches around the scalp, eyebrows, and the nasolabial corners and folds. It is advised to keep the skin moist with soap alternatives (e.g., emulsifying ointments) if your skin is thick/ dry; if your symptoms are severe discuss steroid creams with your doctor. Whilst the exact cause is unknown it’s been associated with high levels of sebum production, and differs from atopic dermatitis with the absence of any familial history of allergies .

Causes Include:

Excessive Sebum : overactive sebaceous glands produce excess oil (sebum) that sticks to dead skin cells clogging pores as seen in the development acne a common factor in acne development.

Desquamation: Dead Skin Cells: We shed skin cells daily which can accumulate on the skin’s surface, mixing with sebum and potentially blocking pores. This process becomes more problematic when the dead skin cells are not adequately removed.

Cosmetics Products: Some makeup, skincare, and haircare products contain ingredients that can be comedogenic (i.e., clog pores), explore products that are non-comedogenic, especially if you have sensitive or acne-prone skin. Use products that are non-comedogenic and breathable, improving the health of your skin as you wear them. Most foundations contain pore clogging ingredients like oils and parabens.

Cleansing: Inadequate or infrequent cleansing can lead to a build-up of dirt, oil, and makeup on the skin’s surface, increasing the risk of pore clogging.

Perspiration: mix with makeup, sunscreen, and pollutants, potentially clogging pores, particularly in areas like the forehead and chin.

Hormones: fluctuations in hormones particularly during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause, can increase sebum production and lead to pore clogging.

Dietary Factors: A diet high in processed foods, sugary items, and dairy products may exacerbate acne in some individuals.

Pollutants: Exposure to pollution and environmental toxins can contribute to clogged pores by adhering to the skin’s surface.

Physical Friction: Frequent rubbing, touching, or leaning on the face can introduce dirt, bacteria, and oil onto the skin, increasing the risk of clogged pores.

Occlusive Products: Some thick moisturizers and skincare products can be occlusive blocking can trap sweat, sebum, and debris beneath them, potentially leading to pore blockages.

Genetics: Some people have a genetic predisposition causes either excess sebum and/or larger pores increasing the risk of clogged pores.

Inadequate Hydration: dehydration can stimulate the production of oil as a compensatory mechanism against moisture loss. It’s essential to establish a consistent skincare routine that includes cleansing, exfoliation, and moisturization to help prevent and manage clogged pores. If you’re struggling with persistent pore issues or severe acne, consider consulting a dermatologist for personalized advice and treatment option

Keratosis Pilaris:

Keratosis Pilaris-Is a chronic skin condition resulting in small scaly bumps on the skin around hair follicles due to excess keratin – a proteins that make up your skin, hair, and nails. Bumps can appear in different areas including cheeks, upper arms, thighs, buttocks and the sides of the body; the condition is exacerbated by cold weather and improves in warmer climates. Typically they spontaneously disappear over time.

Keratin Pilaris Treatments:

AHAs specifically lactic acid is the optimum treatment for Keratosis pilaris, while Retinoids act as an effective adjunct since they speed up cell turnover preventing keratin plugs from forming however, since they make skin more prone to sunburns wearing an SPF 30+ daily is essential.

1. Salicydic Acid
2. Lactic acid
3. Retinoids

Lotion products:
1. Cerave SA cream
2. Eucerin Urea Repair Plus 30%
3. Amlactin 12% Moisturising Lotion

Scrubs products:
1. Exfoliating Scrub Dermadoctor KP Duty
2. Cerave Psoraiasis Cream

Keratosis Pilaris Treatments:

1. Salicylic Acid (but no moisturizing agent + moisturiser)
2. Lactic acid
3. Retinoids (must moisturise before and after)
Lotion products:
1. Cerave SA cream
2. Eucerin Urea Repair Plus 30%
3. Amlactin 12% Moisturising Lotion
Scrubs products:
1. Exfoliating Scrub Dermadoctor KP Duty
2. Cerave Psoraiasis Cream

Actinic Keratosis

Actinic Keratosis (i.e., Solar Keratosis) is a scaly/crusty lump/lesion on the skin surface, with either a light, dark or pink base and dry/rough crust w/wo itchiness or tenderness.

Treatments Include:

Topical destruction: The most common method of destructing damaged cells is via freezing with liquid nitrogen to sooth and treat the skin
Topical treatments: the most commonly prescribed cream is fluorouracil, also known as 5-FU blocks the growth of abnormal cells
Imiquimod: is a topical immunotherapy that helps the system to fight off the pre-cancerous lesions aggresivly causing redness and irritation, which heals to reveal smooth skin.
Diclofenac: is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory gel that can be used for a prolonged period but is not as popular as other creams
Ingenol mebutate gel: a new treatment requires only a few applications so works very quickly comparative to the other creams but is more expensive.
Photodynamic light therapy: involves applying liquid medicine (e.g., photosensitizer) thats activated by a light to kill abnormal skin cells; comparative to topical treatments its less irritating with equal efficacy and faster healing time.

Medical Treatments:

Topical destruction liquid nitrogen
Topical Fluorouracil (5-FU) blocks abnormal cells, its applied daily for 2-6 weeks to decrease the rate of future skin cancers in high-risk
Imiquimod: This is a type of topical immunotherapy that helps the patient’s immune system to fight off the pre-cancerous lesions.
Diclofenac: This NSAID-gel is less irritating but more less popular, since its prescribed for prolonged periods
Ingenol mebutate gel: Ingenol mebutate gel requires only a few applications over 2-3 days as it works quickly
Photodynamic light therapy: can destroy multiple abnormal cells simultaneously, its well tolerated with quick healing time

Psorisis

PSOSIASIS:

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune inflammatory condition with a multifactorial aetiology entailing genetic, environmental and immunological factors – it presents with red and scaly plaques on the skin and scalp. Characterized by inflamed, raised, red skin with thickened silvery/white scales +/- burning, itching or soreness; it can also cause painful stiff / swollen joints, that can appear anywhere but commonly on Knees, Back Elbows Scalp and Face.

Treatments:
Topical corticosteroids (i.e., steroids) reduce skin inflammation, they come in a range of strengths including mild, moderate, strong and extra strong (e.g., for thicker palms/soles). One common side-effect with long-term use is skin thinning.

Combination products – many topical combination treatments combine active ingredients such as a topical steroid with Vitamin D or salicylic acid.
Vitamin D analogues (e.g. calcipotriol, tacalcitol, and calcitriol), they are popular as they do not have strong odours or stain skin, but there contra-indicated during pregnancy/breastfeeding and unsuitable for sensitive skin.
Topical calcineurin inhibitors reduce inflammation and are suitable for the face also however, some people experience a burning sensation that eventually subsides.
Salicylic acid can help reduce excessive scaling on thick areas; it is advised to use a moisturiser alongside
Vitamin A topical treatment (e.g. tazarotene) can improve psoriasis but must be avoided if pregnant/breast-feeding.
Tar creams, ointment and shampoos help reduce inflammation but some find it messy, and dislike its distinct smell scent.
Anti-psoriatic drugs (e.g., Dithranol) helps tackle stubborn areas (i.e., knees/elbows), the strength can be gradually increased if needed.

PSOSIASIS –

Plaque psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune relapsing and remitting inflammatory disorder with a genetic and environmental basis – There is a pattern of genetic inheritance whereby 30% of sufferers have a family history;Environmental triggers include – Sunlight,Infection, immuno-compromised, Trauma, Psychologicical stress, Hormonal changes, alongisde certain medication/ vaccine reactions. The immunological pathogenesis entails a T-cell mediated cascade involving an increase in cytokines and keratinocyte proliferation alongside dermal antigenic adhesion molecules in the local blood vessels, leading to an evolving cyclic inflammatory response.

Topical corticosteroids and Vitamin D supplement
– A refferal to an ophthalmologist is reccomended if you experience eye symptoms not improving with eye hygeine and artificial tears/lubricants
due to orbital complications including keratitis or anterior uveitis.

Psoriatic sub-types include –
Sebopsoriasis when psoriasis patches appear on the face or chest.
Flexural – Raw, red areas in the groin, armpits or under the breasts.
Guttate – multiple small spots that erupt on the trunk following a sore throat/illness
Erythrodermic – extensive covering more than 90% of the body surface.
Palmoplantar pustular – Pus-filled inflamed spots and the palms and soles.
Pustular – is the most severe form presenting as red pus filled lesions with tenderness
—
Tetracycline: Doxycycline or Erythromycin /Trimethoprim) + Anti-androgen therapy: Cyproterone Acetate/ Ethinylestradiol Or Isotretinoin

Symptoms of fever, arthralgia, bone pain, ulcerated/extensive skin lesions require a dermatology referral plus oral antibiotics +/-
Methotrexate

Exfoliating with harsh scrubs can worsen inflammation and dryness, exacerbating your keratosis pilaris, therefor we recommend exfoliating with marine-mud with gentle particles onto wet skin, alternatively use an exfoliating gel peel such as AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids).

Emollients are effective soap alternatives for dry skin, they help to moisten dry skin, reduce flaking and cracked areas to facilitate the penetration topical treatments. For optimum result they should be applied approx. 30 minutes prior to other treatments (see below). Mild symptoms of dry skin may resolve using emollients alone applied as often as needed.