Latest news with #AmericanAcademyofDermatology
Health Line
4 days ago
- Health
- Health Line
Why Is My Hair Falling Out?
Key takeaways Normal hair shedding is up to 100 hairs per day, but excessive shedding may indicate telogen effluvium, a common hair loss condition. Hair loss can be caused by multiple factors, including hormonal changes, thyroid disorders, stress, medications, nutrient deficiencies, and autoimmune conditions like lupus. Treatment options include medications like finasteride and minoxidil, topical creams, steroid injections, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy, hair transplants, scalp micropigmentation, and laser therapy. You can lose hair due to factors like nutritional deficiencies and stress. Hair loss can also occur as a side effect of medication or if you have underlying health conditions, such as lupus. Finding hair in your brush or on your pillow is normal. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, people naturally shed up to 100 hairs per day. However, if you experience excessive hair shedding, you may have telogen effluvium, a common hair loss condition. Keep reading to learn more about what's causing your hair to fall out and how to treat it. What are the most common types of hair loss? There are three common types of hair loss, some of which may affect hair at different stages of the growing cycle: Telogen effluvium: This type of hair loss is characterized by significant shedding. It affects hair in the resting phase, known as telogen. Around 15% of your hair is telogen, while 85% is androgen. Androgenic alopecia: This genetic type of hair loss affects hair in the growing stage, known as androgen. It's also known as male or female pattern baldness and affects nearly 1 in 2 people. Hormonal changes Several hormonal changes may lead to hair loss. For instance, changes in estrogen, progesterone, and prolactin following childbirth or during menopause may trigger hair loss. Similarly, changes in the male hormones testosterone and dihydrotestosterone could also trigger hair loss. Thyroid disorders Research suggests that thyroid disorders may play a key role in hair shedding and hair loss. Hyperthyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland is overactive, producing too many thyroid hormones. Hypothyroidism is when the thyroid gland doesn't produce enough thyroid hormones. According to the British Thyroid Foundation, your hair may take a few months to start growing back once you start treatment for your thyroid disorder. Learn more about the link between thyroid disorders and hair loss. Stress Physical and psychological stress have been closely associated with hair loss. Acute physical stressors may include: serious illness surgery fever blood loss childbirth The causes of physical stress are often temporary, and the hair loss subsides as the body heals. Chronic psychological stress and anxiety may increase the speed of your hair cycle, leading to more hair falling out. Several lifestyle changes could help you relieve stress, such as: exercising for at least 150 minutes weekly eating a well-balanced diet meditating speaking with a friend, family member, or therapist Medications Medications can come with many side effects, including hair loss. Chemotherapy is the most well-known cause, but other medications that may cause hair shedding include: retinoids beta-blockers anticonvulsants antidepressants anticoagulants some oral contraceptives Speak with a healthcare professional if you take any of these medications and experience hair loss. They could review your treatment plan and recommend an alternative medication or modify your current dosage. Learn more about medications that can cause hair loss. Other medical conditions Many other medical conditions can lead to hair shedding and hair loss, including: renal failure liver disease Crohn's disease diabetes psoriasis dermatitis ringworm of the scalp folliculitis Treatment Hair loss has been associated with lower self-esteem, body image issues, and a lower quality of life. However, it's important to note that you're not alone in experiencing hair loss. Several treatments could also help you slow the shedding or even promote hair growth. These may include: medications, such as finasteride and minoxidil topical creams steroid injections platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy hair transplant scalp micropigmentation laser therapy Some natural remedies like coconut oil, aloe vera, and fish oil may also help. Frequently asked questions Why is my hair falling out so much all of a sudden? Your hair may suddenly be falling out if you recently experienced stress caused by hormonal changes, fever, surgery, childbirth, and certain health conditions. You may also experience hair loss if you just started taking a new medication, such as beta-blockers and anticonvulsants. How do I know if I'm losing too much hair? How much hair you lose is subjective. If you notice a lot of hair around your home or new bald spots, thinning hair, or hair that pulls easily when you examine your scalp, speak with a doctor. They could provide a proper diagnosis and treatment plan for you. Why does my hair fall out in the shower? Hair loss during your shower is normal because you're adding stress to your scalp by pulling your hair. However, sudden, excessive hair loss may be caused by an underlying health condition, stress, or taking certain medications.
Yahoo
6 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
Best sports sunscreen for every outdoor activity, tested by a personal trainer
If slathering on sunscreen evokes memories of your mom's childhood reminders to protect your skin, you're not alone. Like many children, I dreaded the ritual of rubbing or spraying on sunscreen — those precious seconds seemed to last an eternity when all I wanted to do was throw myself into the pool. But now, especially as someone who is regularly active outdoors, I understand the importance and continue to preach it: Applying sunscreen isn't a chore; it's a vital layer of protection from the sun's damaging rays. Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, with the American Academy of Dermatology reporting that an estimated one in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime. The good news? Skin cancer is one of the most preventable cancers, and UV exposure is the most preventable cause of skin cancer. Unprotected exposure to UV rays, particularly UVA rays, is correlated with the development of skin cancer and premature skin aging, including wrinkles and age spots. Therefore, in the quest to prevent skin cancer, sun protection in the form of sunscreen and sun-protective clothing is the key. For runners, cyclists, golfers, water-sports enthusiasts or other athletes spending considerable time outside, the right sunscreen can make a huge difference. "For active individuals, sunscreen needs to go the extra mile," says Dr. Kristina Collins, board-certified dermatologist. "Sports sunscreens help maintain continuous protection in high-performance conditions, reducing the risk of burns, sun damage and ultimately, skin cancer." The term "sports sunscreen" has no FDA definition, but sporty folks should look for a handful of extra factors in their lotions, sprays or creams. "The most important factors to look for in a sunscreen are broad-spectrum protection, an SPF of 30 or higher and water resistance (either 40 or 80 minutes)," advises Dr. Ruth McTighe, board-certified dermatologist. "Equally important is choosing a sunscreen format — whether lotion, stick, spray or gel — that you'll be able to reapply consistently when outdoors or playing sports." It's not just the sunscreen itself that matters, but how and where you apply it. Namely, sunscreen should be applied to all areas of exposed skin (including your lips and scalp) — not just your face. Also, don't forget to apply on cloudy or cooler days, as UV rays can still penetrate. Finally, applying once isn't enough. "You should consistently reapply sunscreen every two hours when outdoors," emphasizes McTighe. "It's also important to reapply after swimming or sweating heavily — even if the product is water-resistant." McTighe also reminds us that sunscreen is just one part of a sun safety strategy: "Don't forget to avoid peak sun hours from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and wear sun-protective clothing." While this can sound scary, there are plenty of options for athletes looking to keep their skin safe. We've rounded up our favorite broad-spectrum picks that'll stand up to water, sweat and, of course, the sun. SPF: SPF, or sun protection factor, measures how well a sunscreen protects you from UV radiation, specifically UVB rays, which cause sunburn and contribute to skin cancer. "A sunscreen with an SPF rating of 30 or higher is recommended, as SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UV rays. While higher SPFs offer slightly more protection, no sunscreen can block 100% of UV rays, and the increase in protection levels off around SPF 30," explains McTighe. Broad spectrum protection: Broad spectrum protection ensures coverage against both UVA (aging) and UVB (burning) rays. Each dermatologist we consulted recommended broad-spectrum sunscreens only. Water and sweat resistance: "Sunscreen is neither sweatproof nor waterproof, which is why the FDA prohibits these terms on product labels. However, sunscreens can be labeled as 'water-resistant' — either 40 or 80 minutes — indicating how long the product remains effective while swimming or sweating," says McTighe. Noncomedogenic: Sunscreens labeled as noncomedogenic should not cause blocked pores, which is an extra perk if you'll be getting sweaty while wearing the product. Lightweight and nongreasy: Sunscreen can get a bad rap for being either greasy or heavy! If you opt for a sunscreen that is lightweight and nongreasy, you're more likely to wear it. Portability: If you're on the go and need to reapply sunscreen in the middle of a workout, consider looking for a TSA-friendly size or a stick sunscreen that you can easily slip into your bag. Ingredients: There are two primary kinds of sunscreen that feature different active ingredients. Mineral (sometimes referred to as physical) sunscreens create a physical barrier between your skin and the sun, reflecting rays away from your skin. Mineral sunscreens often include zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide as primary ingredients. On the other hand, chemical sunscreens absorb the sun's rays before they reach your skin. These sunscreens use avobenzone, oxybenzone, ecamsule and/or octocrylene as primary ingredients. Format: Sunscreens are offered in lotions, liquids, sprays, mists, sticks and balms. Dermatologists agree that the best format is the format you'll be most likely to apply (and reapply). As an avid outdoor enthusiast, longtime athlete and certified personal trainer, I've tested plenty of sports sunscreens while exercising outdoors. For this product ranking, I tested 14 dermatologist-recommended options while hiking, running, walking, playing pickleball and practicing yoga outside. I recruited a friend with a different skin tone and health history who runs, cycles and rock climbs to test the same 14 products. I also spoke with multiple board-certified dermatologists and nurse practitioners to get professional insights into sun protection, specifically for athletes. Sunscreens were evaluated based on protection, application, texture, feel and overall experience. Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Sport Stick SPF 50: This sunscreen stick is made for sweaty days in the sun with 80 minutes of water/sweat resistance. The sunscreen goes on a little thicker and can feel sticky if it's not fully blended in. Coola Clear Sunscreen Spray: This spray feels exceptionally light and offers great protection under the sun during sweaty pickleball matches. We tested the fragrance-free version, but there are scented options too. Zo Skin Health Daily Sheer Broad-Spectrum SPF 50: This daily sunscreen is incredibly lightweight, smooth and moisturizing. It's on the higher end of the price range. MDSolarSciences Quick Dry Body Spray SPF 40: This spray stays true to its name — it dries quickly. However, I didn't love the scent. Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Spray: This spray didn't give off a sticky glaze and smelled great. Unfortunately, during very intense exercise, the spray ran and appeared white. Suntegrity Mineral Sun Sport Stick: Suntegrity's stick is a nice, on-the-go option that's compliant with the Hawaii Reef Act 104. However, it feels a little slicker and gives a slight white cast. PCA Weightless Protection Broad Spectrum SPF 45: For a pricier option, I wanted this sunscreen to work a little more effectively. While the formulation is lightweight, I found that it ran during outdoor activities and caused my skin to break out. UVA and UVB rays are structurally different and impact your skin in different ways. UVA rays have a longer wavelength and are associated with skin damage and aging (like wrinkles and fine lines) and are also rays associated with tanning. UVB rays have a shorter wavelength and are associated with burning. One way to remember is that with UVA, the "A" stands for "aging," and with UVB, the "B" stands for "burning." UVA and UVB rays together contribute to underlying skin damage that can lead to cancerous mutations and skin cancers. Broad-spectrum sunscreen coverage protects against UVA and UVB rays. "Reapply every two hours, or immediately after excessive sweating, towel drying or swimming — even if the product is water-resistant. If you're outdoors for long stretches, set a timer to remind yourself," says Collins. Sunscreen isn't the only form of sun protection for athletes, though. As McTighe advises, athletes can wear sun-protective clothing and avoid the sun during peak hours, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Yes! However, dermatologists recommend looking for specific guidelines. "Choosing a broad-spectrum sunscreen that is water-resistant is your best bet for UVA protection while participating in outdoor activities and sports. The water-resistant component will help with any sweating that is likely to happen with outdoor activities," says Anna Chacon, board-certified dermatologist. The terms "reef-friendly" and "reef safe" are not regulated. "That being said, when it comes to sunscreen, reef-friendly tends to refer to mineral-based SPF sunscreen. If the active ingredients are zinc and/or titanium oxide, it's likely going to minimize harm to our coral reefs," explains Catie Boucher, board-certified dermatology nurse practitioner. Meanwhile, standard chemical sunscreens that utilize ingredients like oxybenzone and octinoxate may contribute to coral bleaching, though McTighe cautions that more research is still needed in this area. Often, the conditions in which sunscreens are tested for environmental safety don't translate to the real-world settings, so it's not clear to what extent chemical sunscreens could affect the reefs. One 2020 review study points out that most coral bleaching is caused by other agents and that there's no clear evidence that chemical sunscreens should be avoided for this reason. It's also important to note that some products marketed as "reef-friendly" may use nano zinc and nano titanium, which are less safe for marine plants and animals. "'Reef-friendly' isn't regulated by the FDA, so always read the ingredient list," says Dr. Robyn Gmyrek, board-certified dermatologist. "Using sunscreen is most important, regardless of type, to protect your skin from the sun," says Chacon. "Spray versus lotion sunscreen is a personal preference." However, proper application is key. "While a spray sunscreen can be convenient for reapplication and easier to apply on large or hard-to-reach areas, they are often under-applied and are sprayed unevenly, leading to inconsistent coverage. In addition, there is an inhalation risk if used on the face or in enclosed areas," says Gmyrek. She also has a few extra tips if you're using a spray sunscreen: Spray close to the skin until it glistens before rubbing it in Avoid spraying directly on the face. Spray it into your hands before applying it to your face Make sure the air is still, so the wind doesn't blow the sunscreen particles away from your body Reapply every two hours (or more frequently if you're sweating heavily or swimming), just like creams Each individual's skin is different, but generally speaking, dermatologists recommend mineral sunscreens with fewer ingredients. "Choose fragrance-free, alcohol-free, and noncomedogenic products," says Gmyrek. "If you are very allergic or sensitive, patch test any new sunscreen on a small area of skin before applying on your entire body." Kristina Collins, MD, FAAD, board-certified dermatologist Ruth McTighe, MD, board-certified dermatologist Anna Chacon, MD, board-certified dermatologist Robyn Gmyrek, MD, board-certified dermatologist Catie Boucher, board-certified dermatology nurse practitioner Our health content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional on questions about your health.
Health Line
03-06-2025
- Health
- Health Line
Things to Do When it is Too Hot Outside
Some of our team's favorite things to do when it is too hot outside include swimming, taking cold showers, and cycling. When the hotter days of summer come around, you may be tempted to stay inside and lie around all day. However, it is still possible to engage in activities—both outside and indoors. We asked our team what their favorite activities were during hot days. Keep reading for their answers, as well as delicious cold recipes to try. Remember to wear sunscreen According to the American Academy of Dermatology, it is important to wear sunscreen every day—and this is especially true when it comes to hot and sunny ones. Many of the following activities take place outdoors. If you are going outside, be sure to apply broad-spectrum sunscreen that is at least 30 SPF, and reapply as needed. This can help reduce your risk of developing skin cancer. Take a cold shower Editor Morgan Mandriota likes to take a cool shower before lying on the couch with the air conditioning blasting. Managing Editor Kenny Thapoung likes to lie out by a pier with friends before his shower. 'The post-pier shower and nap are wildly refreshing,' he says. According to a 2024 study, cold showers can stimulate vasoconstriction, which is the narrowing of blood vessels. This can increase alertness and potentially improve your body's response to stress. Further, cold showers are a type of cold therapy, which is associated with several health benefits, such as: increasing alertness improving mood reducing inflammation supporting the immune system promoting sleep improving recovery from exercise Stay in the shade—or the AC Editor Parisa Syed says that if she has to be outside, she wants to be in the shade with an iced coffee. 'I prefer sitting inside in a sweat-free environment with AC,' she says. Editor Heather Hobbs likes to alternate between swimming and lying in the shade next to the water. Editor Naomi Farr says she makes popsicles and enjoys them outside before going indoors to read in the AC. Project Manager Adam Balderrama says that inside, he likes cold movie theaters. Editor Tim Snaith says that cycling is its own air conditioning. 'A ride along the seafront here, especially into a breeze, is a great way to enjoy the sights and sounds, and cool down a little,' he says. Biking regularly may benefit your mental health and improve life satisfaction. In older adults, biking may improve cognitive and executive functioning. Get in the water Balderrama says his outdoor activities need to be near some body of water, such as a pool, lake, or beach. Swimming in open water, such as lakes, may boost your mood and improve symptoms of depression and anxiety. It may also increase your cardiorespiratory fitness and improve metabolic syndrome risk factors, including: total cholesterol LDL (bad) cholesterol triglycerides blood glucose body mass index (BMI) body fat percentage Manager Heidi Smith says that her activities also revolve around water. 'Watering flowers or cleaning off the house with a hose doesn't feel like a chore,' she says. 'Relaxing time is either spent at a lake or sitting in an inflatable pool—I don't even care what people think!'
NBC News
03-06-2025
- General
- NBC News
You're probably not applying spray sunscreen correctly — how to avoid the most common mistakes
Dermatologists often say that the best sunscreen is the one you'll actually wear — and for many, that's spray sunscreen. Adults and kids alike often find spraying SPF onto their skin simpler and more convenient than rubbing in a thick, white, creamy lotion. The good news? Spray sunscreen is just as effective as its lotion, cream and gel counterparts, says Dr. Michele Green, a board-certified dermatologist who practices in New York City. But in order to protect yourself from UV rays, you must apply it correctly, which is easier said than done. I spoke to medical experts about the dos and don'ts of using spray sunscreen, as well as how to shop for it. I also curated a list of the best options to buy, including those recommended by experts and the NBC Select staff. How I picked the best spray sunscreens While shopping for spray sunscreen, dermatologists suggest thinking about the following factors, all of which I took into consideration while curating my recommendations. SPF rating: All the experts I spoke to recommend wearing sunscreen that has a SPF rating of at least 30. That's in line with the recommendation from the American Academy of Dermatology and Skin Cancer Foundation. Broad-spectrum protection: When you see 'broad-spectrum' printed on a bottle, it means the sunscreen protects skin from UVA and UVB rays, says Dr. Jaimie DeRosa, a double board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon and the founder of DeRosa Center Plastic Surgery & Med Spa. UVA rays can lead to signs of aging, like a loss of elasticity and fine lines, while UVB rays can damage the skin's DNA, creating the inflammatory response that leads to sunburns or more severely, skin cancer. Type: You'll need to decide between purchasing a chemical or mineral sunscreen, or a hybrid option that contains chemical and mineral active ingredients. I explain the difference between the three types in the FAQ section below, and why you may choose one over the others. That said, chemical, mineral and hybrid sunscreens all adequately protect your skin, so it's entirely a personal preference, says Green. Water-resistance: If you plan to be in water or may sweat while wearing spray sunscreen, choose a water-resistant option. The sunscreen's label tells you how long its formula is water-resistant for. Reef-safe: There's no standard or regulation behind the terms 'reef-safe' and 'reef-friendly,' but they're used to describe sunscreens that don't have ingredients found to potentially harm coral reefs and other marine life, including chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate. Most reef-safe sunscreens are mineral-based and have micro-sized or non-nanoparticles — nanoparticles can be ingested by coral and negatively impact its health, according to the National Park Service. I labeled which sunscreens I recommend are reef-safe. The best spray sunscreens for adults and kids To recommend the best spray sunscreens, I rounded up options editors and experts swear by. All of the options below offer broad-spectrum protection and have a SPF rating of at least 30. Neutrogena's spray sunscreens are popular among our experts, and Green specifically likes the brand's unscented Ultra Sheer option. 'It seamlessly blends into skin without leaving a white cast and does not feel greasy,' she says. The formula, which is made with vitamin E, is oil-free and non-comedogenic, which means it won't clog pores and is suitable for those with acne-prone skin. Many NBC Select staff members say this Sun Bum spray sunscreen is their go-to option, and it's also recommended by DeRosa. The sunscreen's unscented, zinc-based formula leaves a matte finish on the skin. It's made from a gluten-free, vegan and cruelty-free formula, meaning it's not tested on animals. Best sport I always have a bottle of Banana Boat's sport spray sunscreen at home and lather it on before I go on a run. Its lightweight formula dries quickly and it doesn't leave my skin feeling greasy or sticky. The spray's 'sunscreen' scent is also not overbearing, which I appreciate. Best matte finish When you spray Coola's unscented sunscreen on your skin, it goes on white and dries sheer, leaving behind a matte finish, according to the brand. In addition to zinc oxide, the sunscreen has antioxidants in its formula to help fight free-radical formation that can occur from sun exposure, says DeRosa. It comes in a non-aerosol can. La Roche-Posay makes some of our favorite moisturizers, cleaners and sunscreens, including this unscented, oil-free and alcohol-free spray. It has thermal spring water in its formula, which is a soothing antioxidant, and it's safe for sensitive and acne-prone skin, according to the brand. Best lightweight As its name suggests, this spray sunscreen really does feel 'light as air.' It absorbs into my skin seconds after I rub it in and never creates a white cast since it's clear. Plus, because the SPF doesn't leave behind a greasy residue on my skin, I don't mind constantly reapplying it. I use Banana Boat's spray daily during the warmer months when I spend hours walking around Manhattan, so I buy the biggest bottle I can find, which usually lasts me over a month. Some unscented and fragrance-free sunscreens still have that distinct 'sunscreen' smell, which I despise. I'm always looking for options that actually smell good without being perfumy, a balance that Bask's SPF achieves. Its tropical aroma reminds me of a piña colada, leaning more coconut and vanilla than pineapple. I always bring Bask's sunscreen on vacation, and whenever I apply it, people around me ask about it since it smells so good. The SPF also dries clear, in my experience, and it's lightweight and fast-absorbing. It comes in a non-aerosol bottle. Blue Lizard's fragrance-free mineral spray sunscreen is specifically made for kids. It's gentle and non-irritating on delicate skin, according to the brand, and it dries clear. In addition to standard kids spray sunscreen, Blue Lizard also makes a sensitive skin and sport formula. Coppertone's fragrance-free Pure & Simple Spray Sunscreen has a gentle, hypoallergenic formula, so it's best for those with allergies and sensitive skin, says Green. The sunscreen is made with zinc oxide and hydrating plant-derived ingredients like tea leaf extract, sea kelp extract and lotus extract. Best for babies NBC senior photo editor Becca Delman started using this sunscreen with her son when he was about 1.5 years old and it's still one of her favorite spray options. She likes its lightweight feel and says it blends into her son's skin well, so it doesn't leave behind an oily or gritty residue. The sunscreen's vegan formula is also hypoallergenic and moisturizing, plus it doesn't have any synthetic fragrances. How to properly apply spray sunscreen 'The efficacy of sunscreens, no matter the formulation, lies in proper application,' says Green. And one of the biggest disadvantages of spray sunscreen is that it's easy to apply incorrectly. To make sure you're using spray sunscreen the right way, follow the guide below. A step-by-step guide to applying spray sunscreen Hold the spray bottle's nozzle about three to four inches away from your skin. Spray multiple passes across each part of your body. Two to three times per arm and three to four times per leg is a good rule of thumb, says Dr. Corey L. Hartman, a board-certified dermatologist and the founder of Skin Wellness Dermatology in Birmingham, Alabama. Between each spray, rub the sunscreen into skin until it's entirely blended in. 'If you skip this step, the spray will only protect where it actually hits the skin,' deeming it ineffective for full-body protection, says Hartman. Spray sunscreen works best as a body sunscreen, but if you want to use it as a face sunscreen, spray it into your hands first and rub it into your skin. Never spray sunscreen directly onto your face as you'll risk inhaling it and getting it into your eyes. Mistakes to avoid while applying spray sunscreen 'The biggest mistake that people make with spray sunscreen is that they don't apply enough and spray too quickly, so they're missing areas of skin during application,' says DeRosa. The solution? Apply a generous amount. A good rule of thumb is if you can't see it on your skin after spraying, there's probably not enough. You can (and should) apply multiple coats of spray sunscreen. 'I suggest applying the spray, spreading it on the skin, and coming back 10 minutes later to reapply,' says Dr. Eileen Deignan, board-certified dermatologist and the chief of dermatology at Emerson Hospital. It's also important to avoid inhaling spray sunscreen or getting it in the eyes, nose or mouth, which can cause irritation. To make sure spray sunscreen actually reaches your body, hold the nozzle close enough to your skin, apply it slowly and don't use it in windy conditions, says Green. Also don't forget about your ears, scalp, feet and hands. How often should you reapply spray sunscreen? You need to constantly reapply all types of sunscreen regardless of whether you're exposed to water. Reapply every two hours if you're spending time outdoors or sitting next to a window indoors, says Hartman. And if you're swimming or sweating, reapply sunscreen every 80 minutes and after drying off, even if you're using a water-resistant formula, says DeRosa. Meet our experts At NBC Select, we work with experts who have specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and/or experience. We also take steps to ensure that all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and with no undisclosed financial conflicts of interest. Dr. Michele Green is a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist based in New York City. Dr. Corey L. Hartman is a board-certified dermatologist and the founder of Skin Wellness Dermatology in Birmingham, Alabama. Dr. Jaimie DeRosa is a double board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon. She's the founder and lead facial plastic surgeon at DeRosa Center Plastic Surgery & Med Spa in Boston and Palm Beach. Dr. Eileen Deignan is a board-certified dermatologist and the chief of dermatology at Emerson Hospital. She practices medical dermatology at the Dermatology Associates of Concord. Why trust NBC Select? I'm a reporter at NBC Select who writes about skin care, including topics like tinted sunscreen, ingrown hair, razor burn and sunscreen for acne-prone skin. For this article, I interviewed four experts about how to shop for spray sunscreen and rounded up options recommended by dermatologists and the NBC Select staff.
NDTV
29-05-2025
- Health
- NDTV
9 Causes For Puffiness In The Face
Facial puffiness can be unsettling, whether it greets you in the mirror first thing in the morning or lingers throughout the day. While occasional puffiness is usually harmless, persistent swelling may signal an underlying issue. The face can appear bloated due to various factors including dietary habits, allergies, fluid retention, or even medical conditions. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, changes in the skin or facial volume can often reflect internal health imbalances. Identifying the cause of facial puffiness is key to finding the right solution and restoring your natural glow. Here are 9 common causes you should know about. Causes for facial puffiness Facial puffiness is not just a cosmetic concern, it can be your body's way of asking for attention. Let's look at the top nine culprits behind that bloated or swollen look. 1. Excessive salt intake Consuming too much sodium causes your body to retain water, especially around the eyes and cheeks. This leads to a puffy appearance, especially in the morning. 2. Allergies Allergic reactions can cause inflammation in the face, especially around the eyes and lips. Common triggers include pollen, pet dander, and certain foods or skincare products. 3. Poor sleep quality Lack of restful sleep or irregular sleep cycles can lead to facial swelling and dark circles. Fluid tends to pool under the eyes when lying down too long or not sleeping well. 4. Alcohol consumption Alcohol dehydrates the body and causes inflammation. This can lead to water retention and noticeable swelling in the face, especially the next day after drinking. 5. Hormonal fluctuations Changes in hormones during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause can result in water retention, which contributes to puffiness in the face. 6. Sinus issues Sinus congestion or infections can lead to swelling in the cheeks, under-eye area, and forehead due to fluid buildup and inflammation. 7. Dehydration Ironically, not drinking enough water can cause your body to hold onto fluids. This results in a swollen look, especially around the eyes and mouth. 8. Medical conditions Conditions like hypothyroidism, Cushing's syndrome, or kidney disease can lead to persistent puffiness due to fluid imbalance or hormonal dysfunction. 9. Facial infections or inflammation Localised infections such as cellulitis or dental abscesses can cause one side of the face to swell, often accompanied by pain or redness. Facial puffiness isn't always just a beauty concern, it may be a subtle cue from your body. While occasional swelling is common, persistent puffiness warrants attention. Monitoring your diet, hydration, and health habits can make a big difference. If symptoms persist, consult a healthcare provider to rule out any underlying condition and receive appropriate treatment. Your face reflects your health, listen closely. Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.
