Skin Care

Ladies lets be honest, we put our skin through torture almost everyday whether we realize it or not. We wash our skin with chemicals, put foreign substances on our skin, we touch and scratch our bodies, and expose it to severe weather such as wind, heat, and cold. We put it through a lot and it continues to protect us. But we should be aware of what it goes through and do our best to take care of it. Here are some tips for helping with skin care. 

Signs and Symptoms of Damaged Skin

• Dry, sensitive skin
• Intense itching
• Red, inflamed skin
• Recurring rash
• Scaly areas
• Leathery, rough patches
• Dark colored patches 
• Odd shaped moles 
• Newly formed or growing mols
• Cracking or bleeding sores

Causes of Skin Damage

• Long hot showers
• Dry weather
• Perspiration from exercise
• Stress
• Molds
• Sun exposure
• Food allergens
• Hormone fluctuation
• Bacteria's or viruses

How to Treat Damaged Skin

Depending on the symptoms and diagnosis of the skin condition, the treatment can vary but here are some basic procedures that can be done. 

• Moisturize every day
• Wear cotton or soft fabrics while avoiding any clothing that is rough or tight 
• Use a mild soap
• Pat dry your skin, do not rub with a towel
• Keep your fingernails short and clean
• If you are not sure always consult with your doctor. 

Performing Regular Skin Exams

Skin cancer can be found at young ages and can be very deadly. But when found early it can be treated quickly and effectively. Here are some ways in which you can catch skin cancer early. 

• Know your risks: Are you at high risk? Where do you live? Is your sun exposure common? Do you burn easily and often? What is your family history? 
• Examine your skin regularly: Look at your body often in the mirror looking for knew spots or irregular moles. Examine both front and back in a long mirror with bright light. Be sure to look behind ears, check your scalp, inspect you genitals and breasts. Don't forget small areas like between fingers and toes along with the bottoms of your feet and armpits. 
• Know what to look for: Think of your ABC's: A-asymmetry: is it asymmetrical?  B-border: is the border uneven? C- color: is it multiple different shades or odd colors like blue or grey? D-diameter: is it larger than the size of a pencil? E-evolving: has the diameter changed recently? If you say yes to any of these you may want to consult with a doctor and have it checked. 
• Actinic keratosis: These skin lesions look like pink or red spots that are usually rough and scaly. 

Resources:

University of California: Berkely. (2014) "How to Perform a Skin Exam." Berkeley Wellness. Retrieved from http://www.berkeleywellness.com/self-care/preventive-care/lists/how-to-perform-a-skin-exam/slideid_1690

Student Health Center. (2014) "Dry Skin and Eczema"  Patient Education. 

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