Latest news with #dermatology
The Guardian
2 hours ago
- Health
- The Guardian
Colonial ideas of beauty: how skin lightening products are linked to cancer in black African women
Two months after first going to hospital, a 65-year-old woman was dead – and her doctors are blaming the cosmetic creams she used on her face and body for decades. The anonymous patient, from Togo, is one of a string of recent cases reported in medical journals of cancers in black African women linked to skin-lightening creams and lotions, prompting dermatologists to call for better regulation. The melanin found in darker skin typically offers some protection against the sun damage which can cause cancers. 'Patients with black skin have a natural SPF of about 15, just by having pigmented skin,' says Prof Ncoza Dlova, head of dermatology at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa,. 'If they remove that melanin [with skin lightening creams], they're actually removing the natural protection.' Estimates of skin lightening product use in African countries range from 25% to 80% of women. Lighter skin is often seen as more desirable, in a trend with complex drivers including values imported in the colonial era. Dlova and colleagues are writing up a paper citing more than 55 cancer cases, from countries including Mali and Senegal. 'If we are getting self-induced skin cancer, then that's a red flag and worrying,' says Dlova. 'We have to do something about it.' The market for skin lightening product is growing, with analysts predicting that the current market size of US$10.7bn (£8bn) will reach US$18.1bn by 2033. There are even reports of the products being used on babies and young children. For Dlova, they are 'a health hazard that needs to be addressed'. Almost every day, she says, her clinic in Durban will see someone with a skin problem linked to lightening products. 'Of course, not all of them are coming with skin cancer … They come in with fungal infections that are resistant to the common treatment that we normally use. They present with pimples, referred to as steroid-induced acne, as well as rosacea. Some present with permanent stretch marks; all these complications are extremely common.' The Togo patient had three large, painful, cancerous tumours on her neck, which she had tried to treat with antibiotics, antiseptics and traditional herbal poultices with no success before going to hospital. One of the tumours was removed, but the others were too close to blood vessels and she could not afford the recommended chemotherapy. She told her doctors she had used creams that included topical hydroquinone and highly potent corticosteroids for about 30 years. In another series of eight cancers, reported in Senegal, the women had used similar products for about 20 years on average. Two of those patients died. Hydroquinone as a skin lightener has been banned in South Africa since 1990, and other African countries including Rwanda, Ivory Coast, Tanzania, Kenya, and Ghana followed suit. Those bans were prompted by serious concerns about an irreversible form of skin damage called ochronosis. But regulation is often weak, and the products are reportedly still available from street vendors and cosmetic shops. The use of steroids in skin lighteners is a newer phenomenon. Topical steroids are used in dermatology to treat inflammatory skin conditions such as eczema, but a side-effect is that they make skin lighter, a fact exploited for their use in cosmetics. If the two problematic ingredients are used together they can have a 'synergistic effect', Dlova says. The International League of Dermatological Societies (ILDS) has published an alert warning about the dangers of misuse of potent topical steroids, and is calling for governments to better regulate the products. The problem goes beyond Africa, says the ILDS president Prof Henry Lim, with the problem first raised by its members in India. After South Africa's hydroquinone ban, there was a lull in how frequently dermatologists encountered complications of skin bleaching, Dlova says 'but again, in the last 10 years there was just a sudden eruption of the complications of skin bleaching again. Skin cancer per se had not been described before, it's only been described recently. So obviously, things have got worse – because from irreversible pigmentation [ochronosis] to skin cancer, those are really red flags implying that we need to do something about it.' While the desire for lighter skin is not new, Dlova suspects the rise of social media over the past decade has led to increased use, pointing to smartphone filters that make skin look smoother and lighter. Tackling the issue will require action from many sectors – not only regulatory agencies. 'Marketing, social media and media all have a role to play – fashion, celebrities and all of that. If they use black models who are lighter in skin colour, the message they are conveying is that you are prettier, you can be a model, you are more attractive if you are lighter. So we need to ensure that the advertisements include diverse skin colours when they are choosing their models,' says Dlova. She also wants to see skin health education in preschools to teach children to be proud of their natural skin, and to get across the message of using sunscreen. Some black patients will have skin challenges including pigmentation disorders, she says, which may require creams with lightening ingredients. But these should be used under medical supervision. Part of the ILDS advocacy will be asking pharmaceutical companies to make those prescription products more affordable, so that people do not need to turn to cheaper off-the-shelf products that may be dangerous.
Associated Press
7 hours ago
- Health
- Associated Press
Integrated Dermatology Welcomes Board-Certified Adult Nurse Practitioner Katie O'Brien to The Dermatology Center of Worcester
BOCA RATON, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Jul 30, 2025-- Integrated Dermatology, the country's largest independent dermatology provider, proudly announces that Katie O'Brien, MSN, ANP-BC, has joined its partner practice, The Dermatology Center of Worcester. A board-certified adult nurse practitioner with more than 17 years of dermatology experience, O'Brien is now seeing patients in Worcester, Massachusetts, where she provides comprehensive care with a patient-first approach. At The Dermatology Center of Worcester, O'Brien collaborates with board-certified dermatologist Neil Houston, MD, to provide comprehensive care for a wide range of skin conditions including acne, eczema, psoriasis, and hair loss. She performs skin cancer screenings, biopsies, and excisions. O'Brien also has experience assisting with Mohs surgery and providing pre- and post-operative care for skin cancer patients. O'Brien earned her Master of Science in Nursing from Quinnipiac University and her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Southern Connecticut State University. She completed a Dermatology Nurse Practitioner Fellowship at Lahey Clinic, where she received advanced clinical training in both medical and cosmetic dermatology. Prior to joining the Worcester team, O'Brien served patients across Eastern Massachusetts and built a reputation for excellence in both clinical outcomes and patient experience. O'Brien has authored several dermatology publications, including a chapter in Dermatology for Advanced Practice Clinicians and an article in the Journal of the Dermatology Nurses' Association. She is also a past president of the New England Dermatology Nurse Practitioner Society and remains active in several professional organizations including the Dermatology Nurses' Association, the American Association of Nurse Practitioners, and Sigma Theta Tau International, the nursing honor society. 'We're thrilled to welcome Katie to our team,' said Dr. Houston. 'She has a real gift for connecting with patients and creating an environment where they feel supported and informed. Her experience and patient-first approach make her a wonderful addition to our practice.' The Dermatology Center of Worcester provides a full spectrum of medical and cosmetic dermatologic services to communities across central Massachusetts, with a focus on prevention and early detection. To learn more about O'Brien and the practice, visit About Integrated Dermatology Headquartered in Boca Raton, Fla., Integrated Dermatology is one of the largest providers of dermatology services, empowering doctors nationwide through practice acquisitions, physician partnerships and new practice formations. Founded in 2004, the company operates in more than 28 states and enables its dermatologists to maintain their medical autonomy. With a doctor-driven philosophy and focus on high-quality patient care, Integrated Dermatology provides unparalleled back-office support, including accounting, payroll, human resources and much more. The company also offers career opportunities for dermatologists seeking to join an established practice. For additional information, visit View source version on CONTACT: MEDIA CONTACT: Jason Queen Chief of Staff [email protected] KEYWORD: UNITED STATES NORTH AMERICA FLORIDA MASSACHUSETTS INDUSTRY KEYWORD: GENERAL HEALTH OTHER HEALTH HEALTH PRACTICE MANAGEMENT NURSING SOURCE: Integrated Dermatology Copyright Business Wire 2025. PUB: 07/30/2025 06:04 AM/DISC: 07/30/2025 06:03 AM
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
SkyMD inaugurates clinic in New Mexico to provide dermatology services
Dermatological services provider SkyMD has inaugurated a new clinic in New Mexico, US, enhancing specialised skin care accessibility for the local population. The Albuquerque-based facility introduces a hybrid model of care by providing in-person appointments, as well as virtual services for tele-dermatology. Local patients can now access direct consultations with board-certified medical doctors at the clinic, which complements SkyMD's telehealth platform. This care approach provides flexible options for individuals seeking expert dermatological care, ranging from routine skin checks to complex conditions and outpatient surgical procedures. SkyMD has a focus on skin cancer, with the new clinic employing dermatologists proficient in the diagnosis, early detection, and treatment of different skin cancer types. These include basal cell carcinoma, melanoma, and squamous cell carcinoma. SkyMD CEO Bart Calame said: "We are thrilled to bring SkyMD's patient-centric approach and specialised dermatology services to Albuquerque. "Our mission is to provide exceptional, accessible skin care. By opening this new clinic, we are not only expanding our footprint but also offering a unique hybrid model that combines the convenience of telehealth with the personalised care of in-person visits, particularly for critical areas like skin cancer detection and treatment. We look forward to becoming an integral part of the Albuquerque healthcare landscape." The Albuquerque clinic's range of services includes cosmetic, general, and surgical dermatology, along with specialised procedures, with a particular focus on skin cancer screenings and medical dermatology. All health insurance plans available in the state are accepted by SkyMD. "SkyMD inaugurates clinic in New Mexico to provide dermatology services" was originally created and published by Hospital Management, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site. Sign in to access your portfolio
CBC
4 days ago
- Health
- CBC
Leaving the pond with a new rash? It might be swimmer's itch
If you take a dip in a Newfoundland and Labrador pond this summer, you might take home a bumpy red souvenir. St. John's dermatologist Wayne Gulliver says swimmer's itch is common in the province's swimming destinations, but isn't a cause for great concern. The itch is the skin's reaction to tiny larvae or worms that live in snails in and around bodies of water. They typically infect ducks and other birds, but often wiggle their way into the skin on the arms and legs of innocent human swimmers. "The inflammatory reaction can be quite extensive and very uncomfortable," Gulliver said, but "the larvae die and eventually the patient gets better." People with a history of eczema and allergies tend to have a more prolonged and severe reaction, according to the dermatologist. Swimmer's itch is self-limited, said Gulliver, which means it will typically go away without treatment. It's also restricted to areas exposed to those microscopic creatures. Fixing the itch Gulliver says swimmer's itch isn't tracked, and the best way to avoid it is by avoiding ponds that have infected other people. "It's all by local knowledge and word of mouth," he said. The rash comes in the form of red lesions and of course, an itch. It typically lasts for two to three days. Gulliver recommends seeing a medical professional if it lasts longer or presents more seriously. When swimmer's itch was reported in the freshwater pond at Topsail Beach last summer, the town of Conception Bay South advised people to avoid swimming on bright mornings with onshore wind, keep moving while in the water and avoid staying in shallow water. The best way to deal with the discomfort is by using some antihistamines, moisturizers, and sometimes hydrocortisone, said Gulliver. "The lesson is: don't go swimming in that pond again," he said.
The Independent
5 days ago
- Health
- The Independent
10 best body washes for men, tried and tested
In the vast aisles of men's grooming products, body wash often falls under the radar, but picking the right one is important. The best body washes for men do far more than keep you smelling fresh. Yet, with shelves flooded by promises of unmatched fragrance and hydration, it can be hard to pick the products that will be best for you and your skin. In my quest to find the best men's body wash, I consulted skincare experts for their advice on what to look for. First, it is worth 'considering if you have dry skin or oily skin', says Dr Liam Piggott from the Grand Aesthetics skin clinic. 'Dry skin generally needs hydration and moisturising, and may also be more prone to being sensitive if there are small cracks in the skin. You may benefit from products containing hyaluronic acid or natural butter from coconut, shea or olive oil. Oily skin may benefit from salicylic acid or tea tree oil to control oil and improve skin texture and appearance.' Consultant dermatologist, Dr Sina Ghadiri, agrees, noting that it's 'good to look for ingredients to support your skin barrier and maintain hydration'. He adds: 'Glycerin, colloidal oatmeal and ceramides are excellent choices. Anti-inflammatory ingredients like niacinamide can also be beneficial, especially for sensitive, inflamed skin or skin with textural irregularities.' When it comes to dryness or sensitivity, in particular, using a bar of soap on your body might not be the best choice. 'Many bar soaps are too alkaline and can disrupt the skin's natural pH, potentially leading to irritation or a compromised skin barrier,' explains Dr Ghardi. 'Body washes are typically more pH-balanced and can be formulated with additional ingredients catering to different skin types.' With this in mind, I've found the best men's body washes. Grab a loofah, and let's dive straight in. How we tested When researching and testing body washes, I considered the advice from Dr Ghardi and Dr Piggott, keeping a close eye on the ingredient lists and which products are suited to different skin concerns. Over two months, each body wash was tested in the morning to see if it could provide the invigoration I needed, as well as after a workout to test the cleansing claims of each formula. To identify the best men's body washes, I employed a rigorous testing regimen designed to assess the following criteria: Effectiveness: I assessed whether each body wash left us feeling squeaky clean. Skin-friendliness: I also judged the level of skin hydration, noting whether the body washes left skin feeling moisturised or stripped. Scent: I looked for products with scents that impress without overwhelming. Packaging design: Practicality is important, but I also wanted bottles that balance aesthetic and environmental appeal. Skin concerns: So as to cater for everyone, I also enlisted the help of some fellow testers who have acne-prone and sensitive skin to find the best body washes for different skin concerns. Why you can trust IndyBest reviews The Independent 's dedicated product review section, IndyBest, is committed to providing unbiased reviews and expert advice. Luke Todd is passionate (and knowledgeable) about grooming products. He considers his shower a sanctuary, both to invigorate at the start of the day and unwind at the end of a busy day, so he has high standards when it comes to his body wash. He has consulted experts and called on other testers to ensure that he has catered for different skin concerns, including sensitive and acne-prone. The best men's body washes for 2025 are:
