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Menthol and skincare

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Menthol, a natural compound derived from peppermint or other mint oils, is renowned for its cooling and soothing properties. Widely used in skincare and medicinal products, menthol provides a refreshing sensation that offers relief from various skin ailments. This article explores the effects of menthol on the skin, its benefits, potential drawbacks, and how to incorporate it into your skincare routine effectively.

What is Menthol?

Menthol is an organic compound obtained either synthetically or from mint plants, particularly peppermint. Its chemical structure gives it the unique ability to activate the TRPM8 receptors in the skin, which are responsible for sensing cold. This activation results in a cooling sensation, even though menthol does not actually lower the skin’s temperature.

Benefits of Menthol for the Skin

Menthol

Cooling and Soothing

Menthol’s most notable effect is its ability to provide a cooling sensation, making it highly effective in soothing irritated or inflamed skin. This makes menthol a popular ingredient in products designed to relieve sunburn, insect bites, and minor skin irritations. The cooling effect helps to numb the skin slightly, reducing discomfort and itching.


Pain Relief

Menthol is commonly used in topical analgesics and pain relief creams due to its mild anesthetic properties. It helps to alleviate pain by creating a cooling effect that can distract from the sensation of pain, making it useful for conditions such as muscle aches, sprains, and arthritis.

 

Anti-Itch

The cooling and numbing properties of menthol can significantly reduce itching caused by various conditions, including eczema, psoriasis, and insect bites. By calming the skin, menthol helps to break the itch-scratch cycle, which can exacerbate skin issues.


Antimicrobial Properties

Menthol has mild antimicrobial properties that can help to keep the skin clean and prevent infections. This makes it a beneficial ingredient in products like cleansers and mouthwashes, where it helps to reduce the presence of bacteria and maintain hygiene.

Decongestant

Menthol is frequently used in chest rubs and inhalants to relieve congestion and respiratory discomfort. When applied to the chest or inhaled, it helps to open up the nasal passages and improve breathing, which can indirectly benefit the skin by reducing stress and improving overall well-being.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

While menthol offers numerous benefits, it is important to be aware of potential drawbacks and use it appropriately.

Skin Irritation

Menthol can cause irritation, especially in individuals with sensitive skin or when used in high concentrations. Symptoms of irritation include redness, burning, and stinging. It is crucial to perform a patch test before using products containing menthol, particularly if you have sensitive skin.

Allergic Reactions

Although rare, some individuals may experience allergic reactions to menthol. Symptoms can include itching, swelling, and hives. If you experience any of these symptoms, discontinue use immediately and consult a healthcare professional.

Overuse

Excessive use of menthols can lead to desensitization of the skin, reducing its effectiveness over time. It is important to use menthol-containing products as directed and avoid applying them too frequently.

Incorporating Menthol into Your Skincare Routine

Menthols can be found in various skincare and medicinal products. Here are some common applications and how to use them effectively:

Topical Analgesics

Menthols are key ingredient in many pain relief creams and gels. Apply these products to the affected area as directed, usually 3-4 times daily, to relieve muscle and joint pain.

Cooling Gels and Lotions

For sunburn or general skin irritation, menthol-infused gels and lotions can provide soothing relief. Apply these products gently to the affected area and allow them to absorb fully.

Lip Balms

Menthols are often included in lip balms for its cooling and soothing properties. Apply to the lips as needed to keep them moisturized and to reduce discomfort from chapping or cold sores.

Decongestant Rubs

Chest rubs containing menthols can be applied to the chest and throat to relieve congestion. These products can be used before bed to improve breathing and promote restful sleep.

Cleansers and Toners

Menthols can also be found in cleansers and toners, where it helps to refresh and cleanse the skin. Use these products as part of your daily skincare routine to maintain clear and healthy skin.

 

Menthols are versatile and effective ingredient in skincare and medicinal products, known for its cooling, soothing, and pain-relieving properties. When used appropriately, it can provide significant relief from various skin conditions and discomforts. However, it is essential to be mindful of potential irritation and allergic reactions, particularly for those with sensitive skin. By incorporating menthol-containing products thoughtfully into your routine, you can harness its benefits to maintain healthy, comfortable skin.

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Skin health

Signs of Sunburn

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SIGNS OF SUNBURN

SIGNS OF SUNBURN

Signs of Sunburn. Skin that is inflamed, uncomfortable, and hot to the touch is called a sunburn. After spending too much time in the sun, it usually shows up within a few hours. Simple self-care techniques like applying painkillers and cooling your skin can help you recover from a sunburn. However, it can take days for the sunburn to go away.

SIGNS OF SUNBURN

Premature skin aging and skin cancer can result from repeated sunburns. By protecting your skin on a daily basis, you can reduce your chance of being sunburned. Spending any length of time outside requires you to be mindful of your sun exposure.

Types

Damage to the outer layer of your skin is known as a first-degree sunburn. In a few days to a week, this normally goes away on its own.
Damage to the middle layer of your skin (dermis) is known as a second-degree sunburn. Blisters will form on your burnt skin. It can take weeks for your skin to heal, and you might require medical care.
A third-degree sunburn is extremely uncommon and needs to be treated right once. It seriously harms every layer of your skin, even the layer of fat under it. Nerve endings can also be destroyed by it. The majority of third-degree burns are not caused by sun exposure, but rather by chemical burns or fires.

Signs

redness on skin that is lighter. Sunburns can occur on people with darker skin, although they may be more difficult to spot unless they blister or peel.
Skin feels tight or heated.
Tenderness or pain. Swelling. skin that is peeling.
Additionally, you might encounter:
Fatigue. Fever. Headache. Nausea.

Stages

Usually, sunburn pain begins a few hours after the burn.
The pain will peak around 24 hours after your burn, and your skin will get more red and inflamed. Blisters will appear if you have a second-degree sunburn.
Your skin will gradually revert to its natural color over the course of the following week or so, however it may flake. It can take a few weeks if your sunburn is very bad.

Causes

UV rays are what cause sunburn. UVA and UVB are the two forms of ultraviolet radiation. Your skin can get burned by either kind of radiation.
Sunburn can happen to everyone. However, the following factors enhance your risk of getting sunburned:
How long do you spend in the sun?
Some pharmaceuticals, such as cardiac medications (like diuretics), retinoids, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and antibiotics.

intensity of UV radiation. The time of day, cloud cover, height, and proximity to the equator all have an impact on this.
Depending on your location, ozone depletion can occur.
Skin color and type.
tanning beds without using sunscreen.

Prevention

protecting your sunburned skin, especially when you’re outside, while it heals. You could feel better if you use cool, moist towels.
applying topical cooling and moisturizing gels and creams, such as aloe vera gel or hydrocortisone cream.
Ointments like petroleum jelly or antibiotic ointment will keep the skin hydrated and aid in scarless healing once you’ve cooled the skin and prevented further harm.
water consumption to prevent dehydration.
having a refreshing shower or bath. To relieve irritated skin, try taking a bath with baking soda or oatmeal.

 

 

Summary

You may feel guilty about getting burnt if you’re not slathering on cold lotion. But even the finest of us experience it. As you recover, take good care of your sunburn and stay hydrated. Do not be afraid to contact your healthcare physician if you are concerned about getting a serious sunburn.

 

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Skin health

Perioral Dermatitis

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PERIORAL DERMATITIS

PERIORAL DERMATITIS

Perioral dermatitis. A condition known as perioral dermatitis may be the cause of a red rash surrounding your mouth. Your skin may be flaky and scaly, with inflammatory pimples that can burn and itch. Occasionally, the rash extends to the eyes and nose. Although chewing gum has been implicated in some cases, topical steroids are typically assumed to be the cause.

PERIORAL DERMATITIS

A red rash that encircles your mouth is known as perioral (periorificial) dermatitis. Along with large, inflammatory papules, your skin may be flaky, dry, and scaly. It is among the various forms of dermatitis. Acne and perioral dermatitis can have similar appearances and are frequently confused. This can cause burning or itching, according to some persons. Rarely does it travel to the genitalia, but it might occasionally reach the eyes and nose.

Types

There are two types: granulomatous perioral dermatitis and normal perioral dermatitis. Granulomatous is an irregular form rather than a type of it. You will observe yellowish lumps rather than red ones if you have granulomatous dermatitis. Granulomatous dermatitis is more common in children than in adults.

Signs

Although the precise etiology is unknown, doctors have identified 13 potential causes:
Steroids:
creams containing steroids.
prescription steroid sprays inhaled.
Lifestyle decisions:
thick face creams and moisturizers.
toothpaste that has been fluoridated.
chewing gum.
dental fillings.

modifications to hormones.
the epidermal barrier’s malfunction.
immunity-related issues.
altered microbiota on the skin.
Follicular fusiform bacteria.
Candida albicans.
Demodex mites.

Symptoms

The main sign of perioral dermatitis is a red rash that appears around the mouth. It might be dry and flaky or scaly. Papules, which are inflammatory lumps, are frequently seen. Furthermore, you can have pustules (white fluid-filled pimples) or vesicles (clear fluid-filled bumps). Although perioral dermatitis is typically found around the lips, it can also spread to the eyelids, nose, and eyes. Additionally, it may show up on your neck, ears, scalp, genitalia, trunk, and limbs.
There may be burning or irritation associated with the rash. Some persons develop conjunctivitis, or pink eye. An ophthalmologist, or eye specialist, may be recommended by your healthcare provider if you have pink eye.

Treatment

The first step in treating it is to cease using any products that may be contributing to it. Put an end to the following:
steroids used topically and breathed. This covers both prescription and over-the-counter steroids. Ask whether you can switch to a different drug if your doctor has given a steroid.
moisturizers and face creams.
cosmetics, or makeup.
Sunscreen.
Fluorinated toothpaste (health food stores sell toothpaste without fluoride).
chewing gum.

Prevention

Steer clear of face creams and topical steroids. As soon as you observe signs of a rash around your mouth, especially if it is itchy and burning, you should consult your doctor.
Only wash with a moderate (fragrance-free) soap or soap replacement once the rash has cleared up. Avoid utilizing the same products you used prior to the rash.

 

 

Summary

Dermatitis comes in a variety of forms. Some, like perioral dermatitis, have a specific etiology, while others don’t. Having a rash and not being able to pinpoint its cause might be annoying. There are several ideas, but topical steroids are considered the most likely culprit.

 

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Skin health

Rosacea

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ROSACEA

ROSACEA

Rosacea. The chronic inflammatory skin disorder known as rosacea typically first appears in people between the ages of 30 and 60. It primarily affects the middle face. The common condition known as rosacea is characterized by a persistent redness of the face. Symptoms are usually managed with lifestyle changes, general skin care, medication, and procedural procedures. It usually has a relapsing and remitting course.

ROSACEA

Meanwhile, one kind of rosacea that arises as a side effect of prolonged antibiotic usage, especially for acne, is gram-negative rosacea. A flare-up of pustular or cystic lesions is its defining feature, and resistance to common acne treatments is frequently present as well. Gram-negative bacteria are the cause of the infection, which manifests as numerous microscopic yellow pustules that are clinically comparable to stage II or III rosacea.

Causes

Genetic vulnerability

association with class II major histocompatibility complex-related single nucleotide polymorphisms.
Changes in the gut and skin microbiome

However, skin inflammation may be caused by Helicobacter pylori infection, bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine, and a rise in the density of Staphylococcus epidermidis and Demodex folliculorum on the skin. Excessive inflammation, vasodilation, lymphatic dilatation, and angiogenesis can result from immune response dysregulation.

Mechanisms of the neurocutaneous

Also, ultraviolet (UV) radiation, temperature changes, physical activity, spicy meals, alcohol, mental stress, air pollution, and tobacco use are all triggers. CGRP, or calcitonin gene-related peptide, may be involved in erythema and flushing.
compromised skin barrier
Affected skin exhibits characteristics that point to a compromised skin barrier, which permits inflammation and bacterial colonization.

Treatment

Lifestyle guidance

To help identify triggers, encourage patients to keep a symptom diary:
Spicy food, hot or cold temperatures (hot baths), physical activity, exposure to the sun, cosmetics, drugs (including those that promote vasodilation), alcohol, fruits and vegetables, dairy products, and items made from marinated meat are common triggers.
Steer clear of the identified triggers.

General tips for skincare

However, regularly moisturize, Make use of mild OTC cleaners. Because of the possibility of irritation, use gentle, synthetic detergent-based cleansers instead of conventional soaps. Use physical sunscreens (such as zinc oxide or titanium oxide) with an SPF of at least 30. These offer protection against visible light and broad-spectrum UV radiation and may be more tolerable than chemical sunscreens.

Steer clear of exfoliant, Steer clear of topical treatments with alcohol.
Steer clear of topical steroids as they can make the issue worse.

Also, green-tinted cosmetics can help reduce the look of redness.

Psychosocial factors

Although, determine the emotional impact of the patient’s illness and, if required, think about referring them for psychological assistance.

Particular actions

However, the current treatments for rosacea can be quite successful, they sometimes only address one aspect of the condition. This indicates that patients with severe rosacea and those who present with numerous characteristics need a mix of medications.

 

 

Summary

Also, rosacea is a chronic disorder that necessitates long-term therapy of recurrent and remitting symptoms, despite not being a life-threatening condition. It has been demonstrated that full resolution of clinical characteristics has a stronger beneficial influence on quality of life than partial resolution and lengthens the period before symptom return.

 

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