Latest news with #Dermatology
The Australian
3 days ago
- Health
- The Australian
Regenerative medicine like vampire and salmon sperm facials used by Kim Kardashian
Regenerative medicine is a relatively new field that encompasses multiple sub-specialties including dermatology. As a fast-growing area, it's worth understanding what it's all about. In aesthetic or cosmetic dermatology, regenerative medicine essentially looks at the four Rs: repair, rejuvenation, replacement and regeneration of tissues. Rather than trying to reduce the signs of ageing, it is looking at the root cause and trying to stimulate regeneration of skin cells. This can be done in a number of ways, including cell-based treatments such as stem-cell therapy, platelet-rich plasma and growth factors, tissue engineering and bioengineered skin. These can be used not only in aesthetic dermatology, but also in more medical applications, for things such as burns, diabetic ulcers, and also in some inflammatory skin diseases such as dermatitis and blistering skin diseases. Stem cells that are derived from fat cells, or adipocyte stem cells, have shown promising results in reducing scarring, wrinkling and hair loss. Vampire Facial Similarly, platelet-rich plasma has been shown to stimulate wound healing and reduce hair loss. Platelet-rich plasma was popularised with the term 'Vampire Facial', in which a person's own blood is taken, spun down, and the resulting plasma, which contains a significant number of growth factors, is either injected into the skin or applied to the surface of the skin. Non-cellular based regenerative therapies include the use of exosomes, which are small carrier molecules containing bioactive ingredients that are either applied or injected to stimulate hair growth, reduce pigmentation, or to stimulate wound healing. The source of the exosomes is important, as is the source of the bioactive carrier molecules. Bioactive molecules that come from stem cells, some studies show, are far more active than those that do not. Salmon Sperm Facial Another popular rejuvenation treatment is the 'salmon sperm facial', which uses DNA polynucleotides that come from farmed salmon sperm. These have been shown to also have powerful anti-inflammatory effects and to stimulate collagen and elastic tissue and to inhibit apoptosis or programmed cell death. Other bio-stimulatory injections can be used to slowly and gently stimulate a person's own collagen and elastic tissue. Some of these are based on polydiaxone, which is also used to make absorbable stitches, which are used extensively in dermatology and plastic surgery in the repair of skin excisions, performed, for example, in skin cancer removal. Another biostimulator is based on calcium, using calcium hydroxyapatite to stimulate new collagen and elastic tissue formation. Restore muscle tone Lasers can also be used in regenerative dermatology. Erbium and carbon dioxide lasers resurface the skin, removing the epidermis (the outer layer of the skin) and the upper part of the dermis (the second layer of the skin), which stimulates wound healing and regrowth of new skin cells as well as collagen and elastic tissue and new blood vessels. Other energy-based devices aim to restore the resting muscle tone that we lose with age and stimulate muscle cell growth and muscle hyperplasia, increasing the size of muscle cells to help with functional strength and to address the loss of muscle that occurs each decade, particularly after the age of 60. Many of these treatments are looking not only at how someone looks but also at improving their health span. Health span is the number of years a person is expected to live free from disease. So these are treatments that are aimed at making someone not only look better, but also to feel better and to have stronger core strength and to be healthier. Off-label medication Some oral medicines that have been used off-label, often for many years, have shown promise in reducing the signs of ageing. These include Metformin, a medication that has been in use for 60 years and is traditionally an anti-diabetic agent. The very large TAME (Targeting Ageing with Metformin) study in the US has 3000 volunteers and is testing the drug's effect on ageing, cognition, its cardioprotective effect and other age-related chronic conditions. Results are due soon after years of trials but look very promising. Another medication, rapamycin, which can be used topically but has also been taken orally, has shown evidence of anti-ageing effects. Oral hydrolysed collagen has been shown to increase skin hydration and elasticity, but the source of the collagen is important; fish collagen has been shown to be superior to other forms, but again, more studies are needed. Nicotinamide, which is vitamin B3, also has anti-inflammatory effects and may have some anti-ageing effects. Caution needed The use of such medications to fight ageing is an emerging field, but it is a field where people need to be cautious and we need better studies. We need human studies because promising results in mouse models and in primates don't necessarily translate into the same effect in humans. We also need to be careful about potential side-effects. Rapamycin, for example, is also an immunosuppressant. Metformin can cause a reduction in Vitamin B12 among other rare side effects. So although it's quite an exciting time in traditional medical and cosmetic dermatology and plastic surgery, it's also important not to jump on the bandwagon. As is often the case, regulation of an emerging field by the appropriate authorities may lag behind the industry itself. This can lead to lesser-trained and even unscrupulous providers taking advantage of the public's desire for youthfulness and for anti-ageing treatments. This applies to bio-stimulators, lasers and energy-based devices that stimulate collagen remodelling and other treatments that have an anti-ageing effect. It is wise to consider who is treating you as the only accredited specialists with the highest level of training in the aesthetic or cosmetic field are dermatologists and plastic surgeons. Dr Ritu Gupta, MBBS (Hons), PhD, FACD, is a medical and cosmetic dermatologist. Visit her website for more information. Instagram: @dr_ritu_dermatologist This column is published for information purposes only. It is not intended to be used as medical advice and should not be relied on as a substitute for independent professional advice about your personal health or a medical condition from your doctor or other qualified health professional. Read related topics: AgeingHealthResearch
Yahoo
21-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Dermatology Collaboration and Licensing Agreements Trends Report 2025 with Directory of 474 Deals Since 2016 - Company A-Z, Therapy Focus, Upfront, Milestone, Royalties
Dublin, July 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Dermatology Collaboration and Licensing Deals 2016-2025" report has been added to offering. Fully revised and updated, the report provides details of 474 dermatology deals from 2016 to 2025. Dermatology Collaboration and Licensing Deals provides a comprehensive understanding and unprecedented access to the dermatology deals entered into by the worlds leading biopharma companies. The report provides access to deal payment terms as announced between the parties. This data provides useful insight into the payment and other deal the flexibility of a prospective partner's negotiated deals terms provides critical insight into the negotiation process in terms of what you can expect to achieve during the negotiation of terms. Whilst many smaller companies will be seeking details of the payments clauses, the devil is in the detail in terms of how payments are triggered and rights transferred - contract documents provide this insight where press releases and databases do report contains a comprehensive listing of collaboration and licensing deals announced since 2016 as recorded in the Current Agreements deals and alliances database, including financial terms where available, plus links to online copies of actual licensing contract documents as submitted to the Securities Exchange Commission by companies and their initial chapters of this report provide an orientation of dermatology dealmaking and business activities. Chapter 1 provides an introduction to the report, whilst chapter 2 provides an analysis of the trends in dermatology 3 covers the financial deal terms for deals signed in the dermatology field with stage of development announced. Deals are listed and sectioned by headline value, upfront payment, milestone payment and royalty 4 provides a review of the top 25 most active biopharma companies in dermatology dealmaking. Where the deal has an agreement contract published at the SEC a link provides online access to the contract via the Current Agreements deals and alliances 5 provides a comprehensive and detailed review of dermatology deals signed and announced since 2016 where a contract document is available. Each deal title links via Weblink to an online version of the actual contract document, providing easy access to each contract document on 6 provides a comprehensive directory of dermatology deals listed by therapeutic report also includes numerous table and figures that illustrate the trends and activities in dermatology deal making since 2016. In addition, a comprehensive deal directory is provided organized by company A-Z and technology type. Each deal title links via Weblink to an online version of the deal record and where available, the contract document, providing easy access to each contract document on Collaboration and Licensing Deals provides the reader with the following key benefits: Understand deal trends since 2016 Browse dermatology collaboration and licensing deals Benchmark analysis - identify market value of transactions Financials terms - upfront, milestone, royalties Directory of deals by company A-Z, therapy focus and technology type Leading deals by value Most active dealmakers Identify assets and deal terms for each transaction Access contract documents - insights into deal structures Due diligence - assess suitability of your proposed deal terms for partner companies Save hundreds of hours of research time Analyzing contract agreements allows due diligence of: What are the precise rights granted or optioned? What is actually granted by the agreement to the partner company? What exclusivity is granted? What is the payment structure for the deal? How are sales and payments audited? What is the deal term? How are the key terms of the agreement defined? How are IPRs handled and owned? Who is responsible for commercialization? Who is responsible for development, supply, and manufacture? How is confidentiality and publication managed? How are disputes to be resolved? Under what conditions can the deal be terminated? What happens when there is a change of ownership? What sublicensing and subcontracting provisions have been agreed? Which boilerplate clauses does the company insist upon? Which boilerplate clauses appear to differ from partner to partner or deal type to deal type? Which jurisdiction does the company insist upon for agreement law? Key Topics Covered: Chapter 1 - IntroductionChapter 2 - Trends in dermatology dealmaking2.1. Introduction2.2. Dermatology partnering over the years2.3. Dermatology partnering by deal type2.4. Dermatology partnering by industry sector2.5. Dermatology partnering by stage of development2.6. Dermatology partnering by technology type2.7. Dermatology partnering by therapeutic indicationChapter 3 - Financial deal terms for dermatology partnering3.1. Introduction3.2. Disclosed financials terms for dermatology partnering3.3. Dermatology partnering headline values3.4. Dermatology deal upfront payments3.5. Dermatology deal milestone payments3.6. Dermatology royalty ratesChapter 4 - Leading dermatology deals and dealmakers4.1. Introduction4.2. Most active in dermatology partnering4.3. List of most active dealmakers in dermatology4.4. Top dermatology deals by valueChapter 5 - Dermatology contract document directory5.1. Introduction5.2. Dermatology partnering deals where contract document availableChapter 6 - Dermatology dealmaking by therapeutic target6.1. Introduction6.2. Deals by dermatology therapeutic targetDeal directoryDeal directory - Dermatology deals by company A-Z 2016 to 2025Deal directory - Dermatology deals by technology type 2016 to 2025 For more information about this report visit About is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends. CONTACT: CONTACT: Laura Wood,Senior Press Manager press@ For E.S.T Office Hours Call 1-917-300-0470 For U.S./ CAN Toll Free Call 1-800-526-8630 For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900
Yahoo
14-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Medicated Skin Care Products Industry Outlook 2025-2030: Increased OTC Product Demand, Innovations in Formulations, and the Expansion of Online Retail Presents Investment Opportunities
Key growth areas include cleansers, emerging markets, and advanced delivery systems Medicated Skin Care Products Market Dublin, July 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Medicated Skin Care Products - Global Strategic Business Report" has been added to global market for Medicated Skin Care Products was valued at US$7.6 Billion in 2024 and is projected to reach US$9.2 Billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 3.1% from 2024 to 2030. This comprehensive report provides an in-depth analysis of market trends, drivers, and forecasts, helping you make informed business decisions. The report includes the most recent global tariff developments and how they impact the Medicated Skin Care Products market. The growth in the medicated skin care products market is driven by several factors. Firstly, the increasing incidence of skin conditions, driven by factors such as pollution, lifestyle changes, and dietary habits, is propelling the demand for effective treatments. Secondly, advancements in dermatological research and pharmaceutical formulations are leading to the development of more targeted and efficient products. Thirdly, the growing consumer preference for self-medication and OTC treatments is increasing the accessibility and usage of medicated skin care products. Lastly, the expansion of online retail and direct-to-consumer channels is making it easier for consumers to access a wide range of specialized skin care solutions. These factors collectively contribute to the robust growth of the medicated skin care products market. Key Insights: Market Growth: Understand the significant growth trajectory of the Cleansers segment, which is expected to reach US$2.9 Billion by 2030 with a CAGR of a 2.9%. The Toners segment is also set to grow at 2.6% CAGR over the analysis period. Regional Analysis: Gain insights into the U.S. market, valued at $2.4 Billion in 2024, and China, forecasted to grow at an impressive 4.7% CAGR to reach $1.2 Billion by 2030. Discover growth trends in other key regions, including Japan, Canada, Germany, and the Asia-Pacific. Why You Should Buy This Report: Detailed Market Analysis: Access a thorough analysis of the Global Medicated Skin Care Products Market, covering all major geographic regions and market segments. Competitive Insights: Get an overview of the competitive landscape, including the market presence of major players across different geographies. Future Trends and Drivers: Understand the key trends and drivers shaping the future of the Global Medicated Skin Care Products Market. Actionable Insights: Benefit from actionable insights that can help you identify new revenue opportunities and make strategic business decisions. Key Questions Answered: How is the Global Medicated Skin Care Products Market expected to evolve by 2030? What are the main drivers and restraints affecting the market? Which market segments will grow the most over the forecast period? How will market shares for different regions and segments change by 2030? Who are the leading players in the market, and what are their prospects? Report Features: Comprehensive Market Data: Independent analysis of annual sales and market forecasts in US$ Million from 2024 to 2030. In-Depth Regional Analysis: Detailed insights into key markets, including the U.S., China, Japan, Canada, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East, and Africa. Company Profiles: Coverage of players such as Allergan Aesthetics, 3M Company, Bayer AG, Beiersdorf AG, AdvoCare International LP and more. Complimentary Updates: Receive free report updates for one year to keep you informed of the latest market developments. Some of the 251 companies featured in this Medicated Skin Care Products market report include: Allergan Aesthetics 3M Company Bayer AG Beiersdorf AG AdvoCare International L.P. ALBION Co., Ltd. 4life Trademarks, L.L.C. Absolutely Natural Amarte USA LLC Abbe Laboratories, Inc. Bee-Alive, Inc. Bausch Health Companies Inc. Advanced Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery Beauty Solutions, Limited Brevena The report analyzes the Medicated Skin Care Products market in terms of units by the following Segments, and Geographic Regions/Countries: Segments: Type (Cleansers, Toners, Scrubs & Masks, Serums, Moisturizers); Distribution Channel (Offline, Online) Geographic Regions/Countries: World; USA; Canada; Japan; China; Europe; France; Germany; Italy; UK; Spain; Russia; Rest of Europe; Asia-Pacific; Australia; India; South Korea; Rest of Asia-Pacific; Latin America; Argentina; Brazil; Mexico; Rest of Latin America; Middle East; Iran; Israel; Saudi Arabia; UAE; Rest of Middle East; Africa. This edition integrates the latest global trade and economic shifts as of June 2025 into comprehensive market analysis. Key updates include: Tariff and Trade Impact: Insights into global tariff negotiations across 180+ countries, with analysis of supply chain turbulence, sourcing disruptions, and geographic realignment. Special focus on 2025 as a pivotal year for trade tensions, including updated perspectives on the Trump-era tariffs. Adjusted Forecasts and Analytics: Revised global and regional market forecasts through 2030, incorporating tariff effects, economic uncertainty, and structural changes in globalization. Includes segmentation by product, technology, type, material, distribution channel, application, and end-use, with historical analysis since 2015. Strategic Market Dynamics: Evaluation of revised market prospects, regional outlooks, and key economic indicators such as population and urbanization trends. Innovation & Technology Trends: Latest developments in product and process innovation, emerging technologies, and key industry drivers shaping the competitive landscape. Competitive Intelligence: Updated global market share estimates for 2025, competitive positioning of major players (Strong/Active/Niche/Trivial), and refined focus on leading global brands and core players. Expert Insight & Commentary: Strategic analysis from economists, trade experts, and domain specialists to contextualize market shifts and identify emerging opportunities. Complimentary Update: Buyers receive a free July 2025 update with finalized tariff impacts, new trade agreement effects, revised projections, and expanded country-level coverage. Key Attributes Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 715 Forecast Period 2024-2030 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2024 $7.6 Billion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2030 $9.2 Billion Compound Annual Growth Rate 3.1% Regions Covered Global MARKET OVERVIEW Tariff Impact on Global Supply Chain Patterns Competition Medicated Skin Care Products - Global Key Competitors Percentage Market Share in 2025 (E) Competitive Market Presence - Strong/Active/Niche/Trivial for Players Worldwide in 2025 (E) Medicated Skin Care Products: An Introduction Growing Prevalence of Skin Diseases and the Unmet Treatment Needs: A Fundamental Growth Driver Major Skin Diseases Driving the Need for Medicated Skincare Products Recent Market Activity MARKET TRENDS & DRIVERS Medicated Skin Care Domain to Have Real Moment with Innovation Focus Select Recently Launched Innovative Skin Care Brands Trending Ingredients for Skin Care Products Medical Skin Care Products Rank Better than Regular OTC Products Growing Demand for Products with Visible Results to Push Growth Rising Incidence of Skin Issues among Children Fuels Demand for Medicated Skincare Products Increasing Incidence of Skin Cancer Spurs Demand for Dermatological Products Global Cancer Incidence: Number of New Cancer Cases in Million for the Years 2018, 2020, 2025, 2030, 2035 and 2040 Multiple Skin Changes During Cancer Treatment Offers Opportunities Incidence of Different Types of Skin Cancer Growing Prevalence of Psoriasis Widens the Demand Rising Incidence of Eczema to Underpin Volume Growth Increasing Focus on Wellness and Self-Care amidst Mounting Healthcare Costs Drive Healthy Market Growth Health & Wellness Boosts Demand for Dermocosmetics Growth in the Global Cosmeceuticals Market Bodes Well for Market Growth Global Cosmeceutical Market Size (in US$ Billion) for 2019, 2022 and 2025 Cosmeceuticals with Biologically Active Ingredients to Improve Skin Functioning Begin to Find Favor Rise in Young Population and Skin Conditions Such as Acne Drive Demand for Medicated skin Care Products Aging Population and their Vulnerability to Age-Related Skin Changes: A Strong Growth Driver Major Anti-Aging Ingredients of Cosmeceuticals Global Aging Population Statistics for the 65+ Age Group in Million by Geographic Region for the Years 2019, 2025, 2035 and 2050 Research-Backed Ingredients Hold Preference Growing Prominence of Personalized Skin Care Prescriptions Benefit Market Penetration AI Skin Technology Opening New Opportunities for Ultra-Personalized Skincare Shopping Medicated Skin Care Advancements DriveGrowth Nano Gold Products Emerge for Combating Aging Consumer Interest in Natural Ingredients Drive Demand for Natural and Organic Products Demand for Natural Ingredients for Cosmetic Products Surges Surging Popularity of Multi-Functional Products Promote Market Expansion Women: The Dominant Consumer Cluster for Skin Care Products Physiological Differences Entail Need for Male Specific Products Gen Z Emerge as an Attractive Target Focus Grows on Finding Alternatives to Hydroquinone for Pigment Control Growing Prominence of Non-Invasive Skin Treatments Lends Traction to Market Demand Growing Online Availability of Medical-Grade Products and Concerns Increasing Environmental Pollution Drive Demand for Anti-Pollution Skin Care Products For more information about this report visit About is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends. Attachment Medicated Skin Care Products Market CONTACT: CONTACT: Laura Wood,Senior Press Manager press@ For E.S.T Office Hours Call 1-917-300-0470 For U.S./ CAN Toll Free Call 1-800-526-8630 For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900
New York Times
09-07-2025
- Health
- New York Times
New U.S. Army Shaving Rule Could Affect Many Black Soldiers
Soldiers with skin conditions will no longer be granted permanent medical waivers that allow them to avoid shaving under an updated U.S. Army policy that critics said could disproportionately affect Black troops. The change will phase out permanent waivers for soldiers who had been allowed to grow beards because they had been diagnosed with pseudofolliculitis barbae, also known as razor bumps or ingrown hairs. The condition affects up to 60 percent of Black men as well as other people with curly hair, according to the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology. The Army will still grant temporary medical waivers and permanent waivers for religious reasons that allow soldiers to grow beards. Soldiers with permanent medical waivers will work with their doctors and commanders to develop better grooming techniques and treatment plans that will allow them to shave without developing skin problems, the Army said. Soldiers who cannot comply with grooming standards that require them to be clean-shaven 'within a reasonable time' may be kicked out of the Army, the service said in a statement this week. The updated Army policy is similar to one the U.S. Marines announced in March. 'This update reinforces our culture that fosters discipline — and discipline equals readiness,' Michael R. Weimer, the sergeant major of the Army, said in the statement. 'Through a phased implementation, we are working with providers through commanders to effectively address grooming standards to ensure we maintain a professional force.' Want all of The Times? Subscribe.
Health Line
09-07-2025
- Health
- Health Line
How to Get Better Skin with Less Effort, According to Experts
A simplified skin care routine can have a great effect on the health of your skin. We know more about how to care for our skin than ever before, but with a dizzying array of science-based options out there all vying for a spot on our bathroom counter, things can get overwhelming fast. If you've ever bailed on a shopping cart full of serums, moisturizers, exfoliants, and creams in a state of skin care routine overload, this guide is for you. Keep it simple — and smart. Instead of trying to maintain a 10-step routine every day, break down your regimen into daily, weekly, and monthly tasks. What to do every day 1. Cleanse your skin every night Your skin may be fine with skipping a morning wash, or sticking to just water or a very quick wipe with cleansing (aka micellar) water. But when it comes to your nighttime routine, cleaning off the slurry of makeup, sunscreen, dirt, oil, and bacteria teeming in your pores is a must. Cleansing tip: David Lortscher, MD, board certified dermatologist, is in favor of micellar water: 'It cleanses, removes makeup, and moisturizes in one step by using tiny molecules — micelles — that pull the dirt and oil out of your skin.' Follow that step up with a gentle cleanser. If you'd rather double cleanse (without micellar water), use an oil-based cleanser to break down makeup and sunscreen, followed by a foaming cleanser. If your skin doesn't tolerate foaming cleansers, then use a gentle non-foaming product. This is a thorough but super gentle way to cleanse everything off of your skin without stripping it. 2. Wear sunscreen Yes, we've all heard the warnings and are still tempted to zip out for errands sans sunscreen, or to dodge that familiar greasy, heavy feeling — but sun damage goes far beyond just a tan: UV radiation is behind photoaging, inflammation, and skin cancer. Lortscher estimates that UV damage is responsible for 'up to 80% of skin aging' and recommends a minimum of SPF 30 UVA and UVB protection daily. SPF tip: Use a stand-alone sunscreen. Even if your daily moisturizer or makeup has a stated SPF, keep in mind that the SPF rating is based on a volume of sunscreen that's far more than people think — 2 milligrams per square centimeter of skin, to be exact. That's 1/4 teaspoon on average. You should apply 2 tablespoons of sunscreen to your face and body, which is about the size of a shot glass. For your face specifically, use a nickel-sized amount. You can't add up SPF Keep in mind that even if you're wearing multiple products with SPF, you can't 'add up' the SPFs to equal 30. You need to make sure that one of the products is SPF 30 on its own. 3. Think about your skin concerns Don't feel like you have to slather on everything every day. Instead, focus on what your skin needs. Does it need a moisturizer to fight dryness? Or is it dehydrated? Are you using a prescription that needs to be applied daily? Your skin's needs may change wildly due to climate, season, weather, and age. If you wake up on a humid day and can't bear the thought of applying your usual rich moisturizer, swap it for a lighter pick. Don't feel like you have to do the same thing every day — your regimen should be enjoyable and relaxing. Routine tip: The best routine is a doable one. Once you've taken care of the basics, it's OK to stop there or add steps and products if you feel like it. You can pamper your winter-dry skin with an overnight sleeping pack or soothe summer skin with a refreshing sheet mask. What to do every week 1. Exfoliate with restraint Even with regular cleansing, layers of dead skin can build up on the surface, leaving your face feeling rough or dull. Exfoliating once a week can help your skin look and feel smoother, brighter, and will reduce the likelihood of clogged pores. Beware of manual exfoliants (aka scrubs) Scrubs featuring rough or sharp particles can cause microtears in the skin. Scrubs can also worsen acne, Lortscher explains, as the 'friction from aggressive scrubbing will backfire. This causes irritation, and irritation leads to more acne.' Instead of a scrub, consider a chemical exfoliant, such as an AHA or BHA. These dislodge excess dead skin, allowing it to be gently wiped away. Pro tip: Daily or weekly, not both. Some AHA/BHA chemical exfoliants are designed for daily use. If you're already using a daily exfoliant, you may want to avoid a more intense once-weekly exfoliation, as your skin will already be more sensitive. If not, your skin might benefit from a weekly exfoliant to slough off dead skin. 2. Declog your pores Check out the state of your pores: Is your nose teeming with blackheads and sebaceous filaments? Even though you shouldn't try to extract them yourself, congested pores are annoying at best and inviting acne at worst. A purifying face mask, such as a clay- or charcoal-based mask, or a gentle oil massage may help to loosen clogs and minimize the appearance of your pores. Just don't pick at your skin! What to do once a month 1. Check your expiry dates From face masks to serums, you may not use up products before they expire. Once a month, check the expiration dates of your products for anything that needs to be tossed. Even though the sweltering humidity may have you skipping your richer moisturizers, leftovers don't mean they're still good to use — especially if it's a product you scoop out with your fingers. This method could possibly introduce bacteria or contaminants, allowing them to thrive in the jar. Consider discarding these products after 6 months. 2. Skin self-check 1. Chemical peels Daily chemical exfoliation is one thing, but full-on chemical peels aren't something you should be trying at home. Glycolic acid, one of the most commonly used alpha-hydroxy acid exfoliants, can cause increased photosensitivity that can last up to a week even at a low daily concentration. Considering the high concentrations and increased risk of damage with chemical peels, it's best to have these procedures in the office of a professional who can guide you through post-peel care and precautions. 2. Squeezing and popping clogged pores We've all been there — you wake up the morning before a big event, and you've got an unwelcome blemish waving at you from every reflective surface. As tempting as it may be to squeeze that zit to oblivion — don't! See your dermatologist for something that will usually shrink this within 36 hours, like a cortisone shot. 3. Extractions Those eye-catching blackheads and bumpy whiteheads may look ripe for emptying. But restrain yourself from going on a search-and-destroy mission! Extractions are something that is best done by a professional. 4. Skin diagnosis and treatment As inviting as it is to look for solutions to serious skin troubles in over-the-counter products and popular remedies, self-diagnosis and DIY treatment can be frustrating at best. At worst, you may actually damage your skin. 'In the case of mild acne, over-the-counter medications along with aesthetician treatments may be sufficient,' says Lortscher, but for 'more inflamed, extensive, or unresponsive acne, prescription medications are usually indicated, and can only be obtained from a dermatologist or other licensed medical provider.' Also, don't forget to ask your dermatologist for a baseline skin cancer check once a year, or whenever you see a spot you're concerned about. Do you need a dermatologist or an aesthetician? 'If you want a facial treatment, need product recommendations, have some mild breakout or dry patches on your skin, you might call your aesthetician,' suggests Lortscher, but for 'stubborn acne, [and] other skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, or skin growths, you'll want to make an appointment with your dermatologist.' Pro tip See a derm for serious aesthetic concerns that might require surgery, especially if you're at higher risk for adverse side effects due to having a darker skin type or a propensity for scarring (such as keloids).
