Latest news with #dermatology
Medscape
3 days ago
- General
- Medscape
Pediatricians: Stop Atopic Dermatitis With ‘Proactive' Rx
Pediatricians should consider treating children with atopic dermatitis (AD) 'proactively,' according to a new clinical report from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). The AAP defines proactive care as an 'evidence-based' approach based on 'intermittent use of anti-inflammatory agents (eg, topical corticosteroids or tacrolimus twice weekly) on previously affected skin to prevent flares' of AD. The group also recommends newer agents like the Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors, which may have fewer side effects than long-term steroid use and are more effective than older drugs. The report comes as patients experience long waits for referrals to pediatric dermatologists, said Jennifer Schoch, MD, a professor of dermatology at the University of Florida in Gainesville, Florida, who helped write the document. The recommendations may help primary care clinicians more confidently identify and treat mild to moderate cases of AD, she said. 'Pediatricians play a critical role in initiating topical treatments, educating families, and supporting quality of life,' Schoch said. 'With a proactive approach to topical therapies and an understanding that atopic dermatitis is a chronic condition requiring an ongoing management plan, most cases can be effectively handled in primary care.' JAK inhibitors may be particularly beneficial for treating sensitive areas of the body, supporting patients who have not responded to traditional therapies, and aiding in long-term treatment. Topical JAK 'treatments offer targeted anti-inflammatory effects, which adds to our toolbox, particularly to mitigate concerns about risks of long-term steroid use,' Schoch said. The AAP also now recommends applying topical corticosteroids or topical calcineurin inhibitors proactively to prevent flares. In recent research, patients who were preventively treated with topical steroids experienced a reduction in disease severity and an improved quality of life. The proactive use of nonsteroid topical agents produced similar results. Soft Skills to Build Moisturization and avoidance of triggers like harsh detergents and low humidity continue to be mainstays of maintenance care. Patients should be moisturized using a fragrance-free, thick cream after bathing and handwashing. The AAP advises daily, short baths in lukewarm water and the use of wet wraps and bleach baths. The report emphasized the psychosocial burden of AD in children. AD is associated with mental health issues like stress, depression, and insomnia in children. The recurring, ongoing nature of the disease can place a heavy emotional and economic burden on the entire family, Schoch said. 'Atopic dermatitis can significantly disrupt sleep due to relentless itching, leading to daytime fatigue, irritability, and behavioral challenges in children,' Schoch said. 'The disease may affect school performance, peer relationships, and self-esteem, while caregivers report high levels of stress, anxiety, and even depression.' The new report recommends cognitive-behavioral therapy for patients with mental health concerns and progressive muscle relaxation, sleep hygiene management, and melatonin to reduce insomnia. The use of written action plans may help families follow through with treatment strategies and are 'excellent tool for primary care providers to help explain to patients the stepwise approach of the disease,' said Daniela Russi, MD, a pediatric dermatologist at Phoenix Children's in Phoenix, who was not involved with the report. These plans help 'pediatricians evaluate all aspects of the treatment…in addition to providing proactive ways to prevent flare-ups.' 'This guideline is helpful in showing pediatricians that they are capable of treating mild to moderate atopic dermatitis patients,' Russi said. 'Most of the patients we see in the clinic come without any knowledge of basic skin care, frequency of baths, and use of the correct moisturizers, especially bleach baths and wet wraps.' Schoch reported financial relationships with Janssen Biotech and Exactech. Russi reported having no disclosures. No external funding for the clinical report was used.
CNET
4 days ago
- General
- CNET
Is a Higher SPF Actually Better in Sunscreen? We Asked a Dermatologist
If there's one thing you should remember to put on in the morning, it's your sunscreen (and make sure to reapply it every 2 hours). Now that summer is almost here, it's especially important that you wear sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun's harmful UV rays. But when it comes to SPF, it can get confusing with all the different choices and numbers out there. Is a higher number better? And should you choose a different type of sunscreen depending on your skin type or tone? We asked a dermatologist. What is SPF? Is higher better? SPF, or sun protection factor, describes the amount of solar energy needed to produce a sunburn on protected skin relative to unprotected skin, according to the US Food and Drug Administration. Logic would follow, then, that wearing a higher SPF would offer you better protection when you're out and about, basking in the sun's rays. Is higher SPF sunscreen more protective in a measurable way that actually matters? The tested difference between SPF 30 and SPF 50 is small, according to Dr. Steven Daveluy, board-certified dermatologist and program director at Wayne State University Department of Dermatology. There was a difference of 96.7% blocking vs. 98% blocking, in one example he provided. Research on people wearing sunscreen out in "real life" has suggested higher SPFs are more protective, Daveluy said in an email. Combine this with the fact you're probably not wearing enough sunscreen -- studies have shown people apply only 25% to 50% of the amount that they should, Daveluy said -- and a higher SPF may come out reasonably more protective. "You should use about 1 ounce of sunscreen to cover your head, neck, arms and legs when wearing shorts and a T-shirt," Daveluy recommended, adding that people without hair should use a little more. "That means your 3-ounce tube of sunscreen is only three applications," Daveluy said. "Most people are not using that amount." How much SPF do you need in a sunscreen? The American Academy of Dermatology Association recommends your sunscreen be SPF 30 or higher. It also recommends you look for sunscreen that has broad-spectrum protection (it protects against UVA and UVB rays) and make sure it's water-resistant. "If you follow the recommendations for the proper amount of sunscreen, then SPF 30 is great," Daveluy said. If you think you're skimping on the layers, though, a higher SPF could offer more benefit. He added that he generally recommends looking for at least SPF 50 or 60. Does skin tone matter when choosing an SPF? People with darker skin tones have more melanin, which does offer some protection from the sun's damaging rays. For this reason, skin cancer rates in people of color are lower than rates in white people, but the risk isn't zero. Research also suggests that people of color may be more likely to experience a missed or late diagnosis of skin cancer, making outcomes more dangerous. (It's also important to note that melanoma can have other causes besides exposure to sunlight or UV rays, and can show up in areas not typically exposed to sun.) "SPF 30 is the minimum for everyone," Daveluy said. He added that tinted sunscreens may be a better fit for darker skin tones, leaving less of a white cast. "If you have very fair skin, the higher [SPF] numbers may be a good idea, especially if you aren't using the proper amount, because you will see the consequences of underuse more easily," Daveluy said. Sunscreen 'red flags' As long as you're wearing a minimum of SPF 30, applying it properly and also looking for products that are broad spectrum and water resistant, you've got the basics down. Daveluy added that for people with sensitive skin, finding a mineral sunscreen with "active ingredients of zinc and/or titanium" may be a good choice. Daveluy pointed out other measures of protecting yourself from the sun, including wearing a wide-brimmed hat, sun-protective clothing and hanging out in the shade when possible. But don't forget that sunscreen has a proven safety record going back for decades, he said. "The biggest red flags for sunscreen are any people or reports that try to tell you sunscreen isn't safe," Daveluy said.
Vogue
5 days ago
- General
- Vogue
The Very Best Products for Targeting Crepey Skin at Home, According to Dermatologists
In top dermatology clinics and on store shelves, crepey skin treatments are increasingly in demand. 'I have a lot more patients coming in for crepey skin after or while being on a GLP-1,' notes Nicole Ruth, DO, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City. Of course, it's not only Ozempic that's creating fragile, crepe paper-like skin on body parts everywhere. There's the rise of 'tech neck' to consider, and other causes that far predate laptops and smartphones. Vogue's Favorite Crepey Skin Treatments: 'Crepey skin is the result of both natural aging and external factors. Over time, our skin loses collagen and elastin, becomes thinner, and is less able to repair itself,' says Whitney Tolpinrud, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist and medical director at Agency by Curology. She adds that sun exposure plays a major role in the development of crepey skin, as do hormonal shifts, oxidative stress, and environmental damage. So, how does one keep it tight? 'Effective treatments for crepey skin are available both at home and in the office,' says Tolpinrud. Above all, she stresses that using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or above is essential every day, while additional topical treatments can certainly help. Flooded with ingredients ranging from retinol to alpha-hydroxy acids, humectants, and peptides, the best crepey skin treatments address collagen loss, skin thinning, and dehydration. In This Article:
National Post
5 days ago
- Business
- National Post
Galderma Buys Back Shares Worth CHF 233 Million in the Context of Accelerated Bookbuild Offering
Article content ZUG, Switzerland — Galderma (SIX: GALD), the pure-play dermatology category leader, today announced that it has agreed to repurchase 2.38 million shares at a price of CHF 97.75 per share for a total consideration of CHF 232.5 million in the context of the accelerated bookbuild offering ('ABO') of Galderma shares by Sunshine SwissCo GmbH ('EQT'), Abu Dhabi Investment Authority and Auba Investment Pte. Ltd. launched yesterday evening. The repurchase was made at the same price per share determined by the bookbuilding offering. Article content The repurchase, which is expected to settle on June 2, is being financed by Galderma's existing liquidity on hand and will not affect the company's ability to deliver on its strategic and financing priorities. Article content The shares will be held in treasury for future use in connection with Galderma's employee participation plans, business development opportunities and/or treasury management. Article content Following the closing of the ABO, the free float in Galderma's shares is expected to increase from 41.8% to 49.8%. Article content About Galderma Galderma (SIX: GALD) is the pure-play dermatology category leader, present in approximately 90 countries. We deliver an innovative, science-based portfolio of premium flagship brands and services that span the full spectrum of the fast-growing dermatology market through Injectable Aesthetics, Dermatological Skincare and Therapeutic Dermatology. Since our foundation in 1981, we have dedicated our focus and passion to the human body's largest organ – the skin – meeting individual consumer and patient needs with superior outcomes in partnership with healthcare professionals. Because we understand that the skin we are in shapes our lives, we are advancing dermatology for every skin story. For more information: Article content Certain statements in this announcement are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and may be identified by words such as 'plans', 'targets', 'aims', ' believes', 'expects', 'anticipates', 'intends', 'estimates', 'will', 'may', 'continues', 'should' and similar expressions. These forward-looking statements reflect, at the time, Galderma's beliefs, intentions and current targets/ aims concerning, among other things, Galderma's results of operations, financial condition, industry, liquidity, prospects, growth and strategies and are subject to change. The estimated financial information is based on management's current expectations and is subject to change. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve a number of risks, uncertainties and assumptions that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. These risks, uncertainties and assumptions could adversely affect the outcome and financial consequences of the plans and events described herein. Actual results may differ from those set forth in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors (including, but not limited to, future global economic conditions, changed market conditions, intense competition in the markets in which Galderma operates, costs of compliance with applicable laws, regulations and standards, diverse political, legal, economic and other conditions affecting Galderma's markets, and other factors beyond the control of Galderma). Neither Galderma nor any of their respective shareholders (as applicable), directors, officers, employees, advisors, or any other person is under any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. You should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements, which speak of the date of this announcement. Statements contained in this announcement regarding past trends or events should not be taken as a representation that such trends or events will continue in the future. Some of the information presented herein is based on statements by third parties, and no representation or warranty, express or implied, is made as to, and no reliance should be placed on, the fairness, reasonableness, accuracy, completeness or correctness of this information or any other information or opinions contained herein, for any purpose whatsoever. Except as required by applicable law, Galderma has no intention or obligation to update, keep updated or revise this announcement or any parts thereof. Article content Article content Article content Article content Article content Contacts Article content For further information: Article content Christian Marcoux, Chief Communications Officer +41 76 315 26 50 Article content Richard Harbinson Corporate Communications Director +41 76 210 60 62 Article content Emil Ivanov Head of Strategy, Investor Relations, and ESG +41 21 642 78 12 Article content Article content Article content
CNET
6 days ago
- Health
- CNET
Summer Is Almost Here. Here's How to Check for Skin Cancer Signs
Though the sun can provide the body with benefits, such as vitamin D, it's always important to apply sunscreen to protect your skin. The Skin Cancer Foundation reports that 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer by the time they reach age 70. It's the most common cancer, both in the US and worldwide. Fortunately, skin cancer cases (like basal and squamous cell cancer) don't spread to other parts of the body and can usually be removed through a minimally invasive surgical procedure. Melanoma, however, can spread to other parts of the body, and it's necessary to catch it early to keep the disease from spreading. This is what you should know about checking your body for skin cancer signs. How often should you check for skin cancer? The US Preventive Task Force, which makes preventive health care or cancer screening recommendations, says there's not "sufficient" evidence to recommend, or not recommend, visual screenings for adolescents and adults without any symptoms of skin cancer from a primary care doctor. But as the American Academy of Dermatology points out, this isn't a statement on the value of skin examinations by a dermatologist -- people with a history of skin cancer or people who notice spots on their skin should see a dermatologist for a professional exam. Everyone is encouraged to do regular checks of their own skin by following these steps. In terms of timing, the end of summer may present a great time for a skin examination -- waiting until your summer tan has started to fade may make it easier to spot potentially problematic blemishes, according to one report from the Austin American Statesman. You should also go in for a skin examination if you have a mole or freckle that you're questioning. A warning sign would be a blemish that's changed its appearance recently. Remember these "ABCDE" signs that a blemish, mole or freckle needs medical attention because it may be melanoma, per the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: A symmetrical (one part of the blemish looks different than the other). symmetrical (one part of the blemish looks different than the other). B order (it has a jagged or irregular-looking outline). order (it has a jagged or irregular-looking outline). C olor (the color is uneven). olor (the color is uneven). D iameter (it's larger than a pea). iameter (it's larger than a pea). Evolving (it's changed size, shape or color over time). In addition to melanoma, which the American Academy of Dermatology says is considered the most serious type of skin cancer because of its ability to spread, other, rarer types of skin cancer can spread, too. These include sebaceous carcinoma and Merkel cell carcinoma. Is there a skin cancer vaccine? According to information released last summer, there's a skin cancer vaccine in the works that's so far been shown to reduce the risk of melanoma returning compared with traditional treatment alone. An mRNA vaccine from Moderna and Merck proved 44% effective at reducing the risk of death and melanoma remission when used with a traditional immunotherapy prescribed for melanoma (pembrolizumab), compared with just immunotherapy alone. Positive results of the phase 2b trial were published in spring 2023, and a late-stage clinical trial on the vaccine was set to begin last year. Though this means we're likely a few years away from any potential approval from the US Food and Drug Administration, the findings on the mRNA skin cancer vaccine may lead the way for treatment not only of skin cancer but of other types as well, according to Dr. Jeffrey Weber, senior investigator on the trial and professor of medicine at the NYU Grossman School of Medicine. "Although there have been many different clinical trials of cancer vaccines, there really has never been a cancer vaccine that has clearly shown reproducible clinical benefits," Weber told CNET in 2023. Skin cancer in people with darker complexions may be less common, but more risky People of Black, Hispanic or Asian descent are much less likely to get skin cancer, including melanoma, than people who are white. This is because darker complexions have more melanin, which helps protect skin from damaging UV rays -- the most common cause of skin cancer. But that does not mean that having darker skin equals no risk. In fact, people with darker skin tones have higher proportions of melanoma in different places on the body where we haven't necessarily been taught to look out for signs of skin cancer, such as the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, under the nails and even the rectal and vaginal areas. These types of cancer have "different molecular mechanisms," Weber said, so they aren't linked to sunlight or UV exposure. These less common types of melanoma may also be more likely to slip past a doctor and lead to later or missed diagnoses in people with darker skin than those with lighter skin. A study published this summer, as reported by The Washington Post, found that Black men had a higher risk of dying from melanoma (a 26% increase) than white men. This builds on a 2019 report from the CDC, which found that melanoma survival rates in Black Americans "lagged" behind white Americans despite fewer cases overall. In the same report, the CDC called for more awareness by providers and patients of acral lentiginous melanoma (cancer of the feet and palms). How to reduce your risk of skin cancer To minimize your risk of melanoma and other types of skin cancer, you should protect yourself from UV rays -- according to the Illinois Department of Health, more than 90% of skin cancers are caused by sun exposure. To do this, look to sunscreen, or consider wearing a hat and other breathable clothing outdoors. And you probably already know this one by now, but it bears repeating: Don't use indoor tanning beds. Monitor your skin at home. If you've spent a lot of time in the sun, have a suspicious blemish or otherwise think it's a good idea to get checked, you should make an appointment with a dermatologist.
