Synopsis
- Introduction
- What is Acne?
- Types of acne
- What are the symptoms of acne?
- Why do you REALLY have acne?
- All Natural Acne Remedies that work!
- Lifestyle changes you need to adopt!
- Medication Options
Let us first understand that acne is quite common skin condition that is predominant among the teens and adults. It is so common that it is witnessed by most of the teenagers during their teenage life. Infact it is fascinating to see or come across someone who has not been affected by “Acne.” If you are one of them, I am jealous now. It is no secret that even I suffered from an awfully bad case of acne during my teenage days. Of course, over the years things have improved drastically as I’ve learned more about skin care and methods for dealing with issues like this.
All that I could tell is to “Trust your Body’s Natural Healing Mechanism.” You must be patient and wait for your skin to heal. We do have a lot of treatment options for acne these days, including the laser treatments for which people do eventually opt for. But before you go for something like that, let us try some of the natural remedies to deal with this health condition and understand what the several types of acne are and what is the underlying cause of it.
What is Acne?
Your skin has tiny holes called pores that can become clogged with oil, bacteria, dead skin cells, and dirt. When this happens, you might get a pimple, which is also sometimes called a zit or blemish.
If you get pimples often, especially several at once, you may have acne. In other words, acne is the skin disorder which causes pimples.
Acne usually begins during puberty or adolescence, when the body produces more of a hormone called androgen. This hormone makes the body secrete more of an oily substance called sebum, which mixes with dead skin cells and hair in skin openings called hair follicles. This build-up of skin cells, oil, and hair all clumped together causes pressure, which can lead the pores to burst open and cause skin inflammation.
According to Research, 9.4% of the people get affected with acne, ranking as the eighth most prevalent disease in the world.
ACNE TIP: Avoid touching your face often!
Types of Acne
The Non-Inflammatory Acne types include:
- Whiteheads–Pimples that are small and white in colour.
- Blackheads–Open, small, black bumps with excess oil.
The Inflammatory Acne types include,
- Papules – small red pimple or swelling on the skin.
- Pustules –like papules but having pus.
- Nodules–painful lumps under the skin’s surface.
- Cysts – Deep pus-filled pimples and nodules which can cause scars.
Symptoms of Acne
The symptoms of acne include both the Inflammatory and Non-Inflammatory types that causes breakouts, which can be seen anywhere on your body.
The symptoms of acne are commonly found on the face but can also show up on the back, chest, shoulders, or neck.
To find out whether acne is present on your skin, the first sign to look for is a blackhead.
| ACNE TIP: Drink a lot of water and stay hydrated. |
Why do you REALLY have Acne?
- In acne, multiple factors work together.
- The most significant cause might lead to the genetics.
- Dramatic swings in adolescent sex hormone levels are also one of the primary causes.
- The accumulation of dead skin cells in the pores is a further contributing factor. Normally, the skin cells shed constantly which is not noticeable. Whereas in acne, the skin cells stick in the pore openings and clog them.
- Heavy makeups are also one of the leading causes to have acne since it can block the pores. Hence, makeup items that are mineral based and powdery in form are considered better for the skin.
- Acne can be triggered by using a greasy hair conditioner or a very thick moisturiser.
What could be the reason for the sudden rise of acne if you have not had it in the past?
- It is a sign that you are suddenly becoming prediabetic, which means your sugar levels are high and needs to be managed.
- It also means that you are under a tremendous amount of stress.
All Natural Acne Remedies that Work!
1. Wash Your Face Properly!
As a general rule, you should wash your face no more than twice a day since washing your face too many times may make your acne even worse. Use warm water and a mild cleanser to wash your face as using a harsh soap causes more irritation.
| ACNE TIP: Wash your face not more than twice a day. |
2. Use a Honey Mask
Honey has been used to treat skin problems for thousands of years, which has a lot of antioxidants that can help clear out clogged pores.
Use a clean finger or a cotton pad to rub a little honey into pimples. You can add the honey in any of your facemask, including with cinnamon and make a honey-cinnamon mask.
3. Moisturize with Aloe Vera
The amazing benefits of Aloe vera is surely to be noted. Aloe vera has natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which means it may help reduce the appearance of acne and prevent it from breaking out. Aloe vera has sugar molecules, amino acids, and zinc, which make it a wonderful way to protect and moisturize skin. It works great especially for those who gets dry skin from all other acne treatments.
You can use fresh aloe vera if available, rub it on your face after washing your face with a mild face wash. Aloe vera gels can also be used twice a day as a moisturizer after your face wash.
| ACNE TIP: Know your skin type and choose the right products for your face. |
4. Keep your Hair Clean!
Excess oil in the hair can travel to the skin in your forehead and increase the chances of acne. So, regular washing of the hair is necessary to prevent the acne.
5. Limit Heavy Makeups
Do not put on foundation, powder, or blush when you have a breakout. If you wear makeup, it is better to wash it off before bed. Choose cosmetics that do not contain any oil and do not have any added dyes or chemicals. Choose makeup that says "noncomedogenic" on the label, which means it should not cause acne.
| ACNE TIP: Let your skin breath! Avoid heavy makeups. |
6. Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is a natural antibacterial, which means that it could kill P. acnes, the bacteria that causes acne. It can help reduce the redness and swelling of pimples due to its anti-inflammatory properties.
7. Turmeric Face Pack
Usually, Indian brides traditionally use a turmeric mask before their weddings to make their skin look beautiful. This is due to the spice's anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties, as well as its ability to significantly improve the severity of skin conditions like acne, alopecia, atopic dermatitis, oral lichen planus, pruritus, and psoriasis.
For the face pack, mix turmeric powder and sandalwood powder with one tablespoon of honey along with half a tsp of raw milk. Apply the paste on your face and let it rest for around 10 – 15 minutes.
| ACNE TIP: Avoid oil-based makeup and greasy hair products. |
Lifestyle Changes you Need to Adopt!
1. Keep your Hands off!
Every time you touch your face, you transfer oil and dirt into your skin. It is a challenging routine to break, but it is a vital one to follow. And remember to wash your hands often with soap, particularly before and after meals.
2. Refrain from Popping at Pimples
It may be tempting to pop or squeeze your pimple. But doing so will not get rid of the problem. It pushes the bacteria and pus deep back into the skin which causes more redness and swelling.
| ACNE TIP: Do not pick or pop the pimples. Ever! |
3. Stay Hydrated!
When the skin is dry, it can get irritated or damaged, which can make acne worse. Staying hydrated also makes sure that healthy new skin cells form as wounds heal.
4. Reduce Stress
Stress increases the hormone androgen, which stimulates hair follicles and oil glands in the pores which makes acne even more likely.
| ACNE TIP: Just Chill! And reduce stress. |
5. Cut Down on Junks!
Acne is strongly linked to eating a Western diet that is high in calories, fat, and processed carbs. Fast foods such as fries, burgers, sodas, milkshakes, and dairy products increase a person’s risk of developing acne.
6. Limit Sun Exposure
Frequent sun exposure dries out the skin, which makes it produce more oil and block pores over time. Sunburn can also make too many oils, which can make acne worse.
Wearing sunscreen can help protect your skin all day round. Of course, you already know that sunscreens are usually oily. So, choose an oil-free, noncomedogenic sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun and pimples.
| ACNE TIP: Try to avoid prolonged sun exposure and remember to apply sunscreen always! |
7. Change your Sheets Weekly!
If there is dirt or oil on your sheets, it will rub off on your skin while you sleep. It is especially important to change your pillowcases since friction between your face and the pillowcase causes dirt and bacteria to enter your pores, which can lead to spots and acne, especially if you already have acne-prone skin. It is especially important to change your pillowcases since friction between your face and the pillowcase causes dirt and bacteria to enter your pores, which can lead to spots and acne, especially if you already have acne-prone skin.
Medication Options
Acne can be treated medically in many ways including medicines and laser treatments and many of them are highly effective, though they can have side effects and may not be right for everyone.
There are Over the counter medicines which can help get rid of pimples and sometimes even prevent them. But if you are not sure about the right product, it is better to consult a dermatologist since over usage of the OTC medicines can lead to irritation and dryness.
To all the skin related problems, the person you have to consult is a dermatologist. If over the counter or natural treatments have not helped, it is preferable to consult a dermatologist about the possible prescription medication or topical creams.
| ACNE TIP: Trust your Body’s Natural Healing Mechanism. |
Do you agree that having glowing and flawless skin is a goal for everyone? What are the obstacles to obtaining it? Open pores? Yes! Open pores can be a very significant obstacle to getting glowing skin. Open pores often make the skin rough and uneven, prone to acne and blackheads, and result in excess oil production, problems in skin elasticity, and various other external factors such as dirt buildup and sun damage. Most people turn to expensive skincare products and treatments to manage the condition, but natural remedies and products will help the condition and provide long-lasting solutions. Now, in this blog, let's learn more about the best homemade remedies for open pores on your face, which can help you get glowing, soft, and radiant skin.
Let's get this started!
Causes of Open Pores on Face
Before we delve into homemade remedies for open pores in the skin, let's understand the causes behind it:
- Excess oil production
- Aging and loss of skin elasticity
- Sun damage
- Poor skincare routine
- Genetic predisposition
- Clogged pores due to dirt and makeup buildup
Addressing these causes with homemade remedies for open pores on the face can naturally and effectively reduce their appearance.
1. Ice Cubes for Pore Tightening
Ice cubes are one of the best homemade remedies for open pores on the face. Cold temperature shrinks pores and reduces excess oil production.
So, how to use:
- Wrap an ice cube in a clean cloth
- Gently rub it on your face for a few seconds
- Repeat it in routine for good results
This is a great remedy for an instant skin-refreshing effect, and it serves as a good base before applying makeup. Including homemade remedies for open pores on the face, like ice therapy, into your daily skin care routine would lead to effective results.
2. Aloe Vera Gel for Pore Reduction and Hydration
Aloe vera is a versatile ingredient that can be used as a good homemade remedy for open pores on the face. It soothes, hydrates, and tightens the skin.
How to use:
- Extract aloe vera freshly from a leaf
- Apply it evenly upon your face and leave it for 20 minutes
- Rinse it with lukewarm water
Aloe vera not only shrinks your face pores but also gives your skin a natural glow, making it a great addition to homemade remedies for open pores on the face.
3. Apple Cider Vinegar for Natural Toner
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) helps balance skin pH and tighten pores, making it one of the best homemade remedies for face pores.
How to use:
- Mix equal quantities of ACV and water
- Apply it using a cotton pad after cleaning your face
- Let it dry before you apply your moisturizer
Regularly using apple cider vinegar on your face will reduce oil secretion and prevent acne. Using such homemade remedies for open pores is a great way to keep your skin nourished.
4. Baking Soda Scrub: Deep Cleansing and Exfoliation
Baking soda is also a natural exfoliant and one of the best homemade remedies for open pores on the face.
How to use:
- Mix one teaspoon of baking soda with water to form a paste
- Massage it gently onto your skin in circular motions.
- Rinse thoroughly with cool water.
This remedy removes dirt, excess oil, and dead skin cells, making it one of the most effective homemade remedies for open pores on the face.
5. Honey and Lemon Mask: Pore-Minimizing and Brightening
Honey and lemon work wonders in homemade remedies for open pores on the face. Honey hydrates while lemon tightens the skin.
How to use:
- Mix one tablespoon of honey with a few drops of lemon juice.
- Apply it to your face and leave it for 15 minutes.
- Rinse off with lukewarm water.
This combination keeps your skin glowing and reduces pore size. Using homemade remedies for open pores on the face, like honey and lemon, ensures your skin remains healthy and youthful.
Conclusion
Open pores are a persistent issue, but proper care and homemade remedies for open pores on the face can help you achieve good, healthier skin. Homemade remedies for open pores are a natural, safe, and cost-effective way to keep your face glowing. Incorporating them into your daily routine will minimize pores on your face and enhance your overall skin complexion. Are you still wondering if these remedies work? If yes, give them a try to see for yourself.
18th Feb, 2025
Keeping your skin clean is the basic step to a good skincare routine, but many people are still confused about the difference between a cleanser and a facewash. Are they really the same? Do they serve different purposes? If you’ve wondered or had these two questions pop up in your mind, then this blog will help you get an idea about cleanser vs. facewash, its benefits, and how to choose the right one for your skin.
What is a Cleanser?
A cleanser is a simple skincare product designed to remove all impurities, such as dirt and oil, from your skin without affecting the face’s moisture. Unlike face washes, cleansers are mostly gentle and hydrating, which makes them best for sensitive and dry skin types. Cleansers come in various forms, such as gel, cream, oil, foam, and micellar water, allowing users to choose the one that suits their skin type.
When it comes to cleanser vs. facewash, a cleanser is the best choice to clean makeup, sunscreen, and pollution residues. Since it does not lather like a facewash, it provides a proper cleanse without affecting the balance of the skin.
When to Use a Cleanser vs. Face Wash?
Choosing between a cleanser and facewash depends on your skin type, routine, and preferences. Here’s a simple guide:
- If you have dry or sensitive skin, use a gentle cleanser to maintain hydration and prevent irritation.
- If you wear makeup daily, use a cleanser to dissolve the makeup before using a face wash.
- If you have oily or acne-prone skin, a face wash with oil-controlling ingredients is better.
- For combination skin, you can use both—a cleanser at night and a face wash in the morning.
Incorporating both a cleanser and a face wash into your routine can ensure a well-balanced skincare regimen that caters to your skin’s specific needs.
Cleanser vs. Face Wash: Key Differences
Understanding the differences between a cleanser vs facewash can help you make the right choice for your skin. Here are some significant distinctions:
- Texture & Consistency – Cleansers have a creamy, milky, or oil-based consistency, while face washes are usually gel- or foam-based.
- Cleansing Mechanism – Cleansers gently dissolve dirt and makeup, whereas face washes foam to remove deep-seated impurities.
- Suitable Skin Type – Cleansers are ideal for dry, sensitive, or mature skin, while face washes are best for oily and acne-prone skin.
- Usage – Cleansers are often used at night to remove makeup and grime, whereas face washes are great for morning skincare routines.
By recognizing these differences, you can better decide whether a cleanser vs facewash is the right fit for your daily skincare needs.
Can you use both Cleanser and Face Wash Together?
Yes! Most people benefit from using face wash instead of cleanser in their skincare routine. This method is called double cleansing, and it helps deep cleanse your skin thoroughly.
- Begin with a cleanser to remove your makeup, sunscreen, and pollutants
- Follow up with a face wash to clean your pores and remove residual impurities.
How to Choose the Right Product for Your Skin?
While choosing between cleanser and facewash, it is essential to consider the following:
- For oily skin: Choose a foam face wash with charcoal or salicylic.
- For dry skin: Pick a hydrating cleanser with glycerine and hyaluronic acid ingredients.
- For sensitive skin: A gentle, fragrance-free cleanser will be a great choice.
- For acne-prone skin: Check with your dermatologist and get a prescribed or medicated face wash with benzoyl peroxide could help avoid breakouts.
Conclusion
Both facewash and cleanser play individual roles in maintaining skin health, but their purposes vary. Cleansers are hydrating, gentle, and effective for cleaning dirt from the face, while facewash deep cleans the face and is best for oily and acne-prone skin.
Knowing the difference between cleanser and facewash will help you maintain a good skincare routine. Please choose the right product for your skin to keep it glowing and fresh!
7th Feb, 2025
BB cream and CC cream are both equally Important to get a perfect and natural complexion on your face. These two have always been the best alternatives to any other traditional foundations. But do you ever wonder about how they differ? This blog will guide you through the key differences tat you should know between BB crem Vs CC cream.
Let’s get this started!
What is BB Cream?
Blemish Balm also known as BB cream or Beauty Balm is indeed a multi-purpose product that combines makeup and skincare. This BB cream offers a very light and perfect coverage and aids in keeping the skin hydrated. This cream is an apt choice for those who look for a proper SPF protection as the cream offers a good sun protection and it also works for people with a all-in-products expectations.
BB Cream Vs CC Cream: BB Cream Benefits
Gives a light coverage and natural skin
Keeps your skin hydrated and nourished
Contains SPF for sun protection
Apt for routine use
Best for dry and normal skin types
What is CC Cream?
CC cream stands for “Colour correcting” cream which is designed to help skin discolouration issues like dullness, dark circle issues, redness or uneven skin tone. CC cream has a big lighter texture than the BB cream, but it gives a good colour correction, keeping your skin balanced. It is no doubt a great choice for people looking for neutralized skin.
BB Cream Vs CC Cream: Benefits of CC cream
Gives good colour correction
Lightweight formula and best for balanced coverage
Contains anti-aging ingredients
Best for oily skin and acne-prone skin
Aids in neutralizing dark spots and uneven colouration
BB Cream Vs CC Cream: Know the Difference
The choice between BB cream and CC cream is completely based on your needs and skin type:
If you want a good hydrating skin or an all-in-all product, then BB cream can be your go to remedy. It works great for normal and dry skin types.
If you trying to manage your imbalanced skin tone, then you can certainly go for CC cream, and it works well for oily skin types.
Incase, of sun protection and SPF requirements, both BB and CC cream has the potential to protect your skin from sun exposure.
If you are expecting more skincare benefits that pertains to anti-aging and moisturizing, then CC cream focuses on skin evening.
BB cream Vs CC Cream: Which is better BB or CC?
Both CC cream and BB cream provide great benefits equally, but the primary functions indeed vary. It is crucial to choose between both based on the skin condition and needs. So, understanding the key differences between these two creams will help you take more informed decisions. No matter which one you choose, both BB cream and CC cream are great for lightweight skin finish. If you still not satisfied with the above information, get in touch with a dermatologist for better ideas.
How to use BB or CC cream to your makeuproutine?
Now that you have an idea about the key differences, let’s get to know the best way to incorporate in your daily routine. Always begin by cleansing your facer and moisturizing it. Apply BB or CC cream on your face using a make-up sponge or brush and ensure that you have spread it equally on your skin and it is well-blended. After which you can add a concealer or a compact to balance the coverage as required.
Conclusion
BB and CC creams have been here for more than 50 years; yet they have become extremely popular only within this last decade. It has been widely used by a lot of women globally. Now, its your time to know more about them before you include them into your daily skincare routine. Clear skin, happy life!
30th Jan, 2025
Introduction
Ever stood in the skincare aisle, overwhelmed by the endless options of facial cleansers? You're not alone. Finding the right cleanser is like finding the perfect pair of jeans – it needs to fit you perfectly. And, of course, finding it right for your skin type is even more crucial. In this guide, you will get to know everything about choosing and using the right cleanser for your unique skin.
Understanding Your Skin Type
Before you can choose the perfect cleanser, you need to understand what your skin is telling you. Your skin type is your skin's natural state, and it's the key to selecting products that will work harmoniously with your complexion. It is crucial to identify your skin type as this will determine which product will work best for you:
- Oily Skin: Characterized by shine, enlarged pores, and a tendency to break out
- Dry Skin: Feels tight, may have flaky patches, and lacks moisture
- Combination Skin: Oily in T-zone (forehead, nose, chin) but dry elsewhere
- Sensitive Skin: Easily irritated, may become red or inflamed
- Normal Skin: Well-balanced, neither too oily nor too dry
Types of Cleansers: Finding Your Perfect Match
Gel Cleansers: The Refreshing Choice
Perfect for those hot, humid days or oily skin types, gel cleansers are like a refreshing drink for your face. They typically have a clear, gel-like consistency that feels lightweight yet effective. What makes them special is their ability to deep clean without leaving any heavy residue behind.
Cream Cleansers: The Comfort Option
Think of cream cleansers as a cozy blanket for your skin. They're rich, nourishing, and perfect for dry or sensitive skin types. These cleansers do more than just clean – they help maintain your skin's natural moisture barrier while gently removing impurities.
Oil Cleansers: The Makeup Melter
Don't let the word "oil" scare you away. Oil cleansers are fantastic for all skin types, especially oily skin! They are incredibly effective at breaking down makeup, sunscreen, and excess sebum.
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Use a Face Cleanser
The art of cleansing your face isn't complicated, but paying attention to each step can make a world of difference in your skincare results. Here's your essential guide to getting the most out of your cleanser:
Preparing Your Skin
Take a moment to tie back your hair and ensure your hands are clean. Consider your skin's current state – is it feeling particularly oily today? Or perhaps a bit sensitive? This awareness helps you adjust your cleansing pressure and duration accordingly.
Wetting Your Face
Begin with lukewarm water – think of it as your skin's comfort zone. Not too hot (which can strip your skin) and not too cold (which won't effectively dissolve oils). Gently splash your face, ensuring it's thoroughly dampened.
Applying the Cleanser
Dispense about a dime-sized amount of cleanser into your palm. Warm it slightly between your hands before applying it to your face. This simple step helps the cleanser spread more evenly and work more effectively.
Massaging Technique
Now for the most important part: use gentle, circular upward motions to massage the cleanser into your skin. Pay extra attention to often-neglected areas like the jawline, around the nose, and hairline. A proper massage should take about 30-60 seconds – think of it as a mini facial massage.
Rinsing and Finishing
Complete your cleansing ritual by thoroughly rinsing with lukewarm water. Ensure no cleanser residue remains, as this can lead to irritation. Finally, pat (don't rub!) your face dry with a clean, soft towel. Your skin should feel clean and refreshed, not tight or stripped.
The Art of Cleansing: More Than Just Washing Your Face
Proper cleansing is a ritual that deserves attention and care. Here's how to make the most of your cleansing routine:
- Start with Clean Hands: Always begin with clean hands – after all, you don't want to transfer additional bacteria to your face.
- Temperature Matters: Use lukewarm water. Too hot can irritate and strip your skin, while too cold won't effectively dissolve oil-based impurities.
- The Technique: Apply your cleanser using gentle, circular motions, spending about 60 seconds massaging it into your skin. Pay special attention to:
- The hairline (often missed and prone to breakouts)
- Around the nose
- The jawline and neck
- Any areas where makeup tends to accumulate
When to Cleanse
- Morning: Light cleanse to remove overnight buildup
- Evening: Thorough cleanse to remove makeup, sunscreen, and daily debris
- Post-workout: Quick cleanse to remove sweat and bacteria
Troubleshooting: When Your Cleanser Isn't Working
Sometimes, even with careful selection, a cleanser might not work out. Here are signs it's time to switch:
Your skin feels tight or uncomfortable after washing. This usually indicates the cleanser is too harsh and is disrupting your skin barrier. Don't ignore this sign – a good cleanser should leave your skin feeling clean but comfortable.
If you're experiencing new breakouts, increased oiliness, or unusual dryness, your cleanser might be the culprit. Give your skin about two weeks to adjust to a new product, but if problems persist, it's time to try something else. You can even get an opinion from a dermatologist online to get the perfect cleanser that works for your skin.
Special Skin Conditions: Taking Extra Care
Dealing with acne? Look for cleansers containing salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, but be careful not to over-cleanse, as this can worsen breakouts.
For aging skin, prioritize gentle, hydrating formulas with antioxidants. Avoid harsh sulphates that can strip away natural oils, which become more precious as we age.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using water that's too hot or cold
- Over-cleansing (more than twice daily)
- Choosing harsh products that strip the skin
- Not rinsing thoroughly
- Rubbing skin too aggressively
- Using dirty hands or washcloths
Signs You Need to Change Your Cleanser
- Skin feels tight or uncomfortable after washing
- New breakouts or irritation
- Excessive oiliness or dryness
- Burning or stinging sensation
- Redness or inflammation
Cleanser Vs Face Wash: Know the Difference!
| Cleanser |
Face
Wash |
| Texture: Creamy, milky, or balm-like |
Texture: Gel or foam-based |
| Best for: Dry, sensitive & mature skin |
Best for: Oily & combination skin |
| Main job: Removes dirt while moisturizing |
Main job: Deep cleaning & refreshing |
| Key benefit: Maintains skin barrier |
Key benefit: Controls excess oil |
| When to use: Morning routine & light cleansing |
When to use: Evening routine & post-workout |
| Feel on skin: Soft & nourishing |
Feel on skin: Fresh & squeaky clean |
| Makeup removal: Gentle yet effective |
Makeup removal: Powerful |
| Perfect for: Cold climate dwellers |
Perfect for: Hot climate dwellers |
The Bottom Line
Skincare is personal, and what works for someone else might not work for you. Pay attention to how your skin responds, and don't be afraid to adjust your routine accordingly. The perfect cleanser will leave your skin feeling clean but not stripped, refreshed but not tight, and, most importantly, healthy and balanced. Start with these guidelines, but feel free to modify them based on your skin's unique needs.
23rd Dec, 2024
Unusual skin cell growth in your skin's tissues is known as skin cancer. Generally, when skin grows, the old cells die, and new cells replace them. In a few cases, when this process doesn’t go as it should, often after being exposed to UV from the sun, the cells grow faster. Such cells can be both cancerous and non-cancerous. If those cells are cancerous, they will spread to the nearby tissues, causing skin cancer.
Skin cancer can be treated if diagnosed and treated as soon as possible. So, always talk to your doctor if you think that you have any skin cancer symptoms.
Skin Cancer Symptoms
As many skin cancers develop in visible or seen areas, they can be detected early. Regularly examining your skin is crucial to know if there are any unusual growths. Also, it is essential to notice if there are any changes in your existing moles.
A few areas where you should look for skin cancer symptoms include the arms, face, trunk, legs, and neck. It would help if you also looked for skin cancer symptoms in toes, nails, palms of hands, feet soles, genitals, and sometimes eyes.
The following are a few common symptoms that most individuals face when having skin cancer:
- A very unusual skin growth or a sore that does not go away, such as a nodule, rash, or patches on your skin that feel abnormal.
- A pearly or waxy translucent white bump on the neck or head, or a brownish flesh-shaded lesion or scar on the chest area, is a very common skin cancer symptom.
- Flesh-colored moles or red ones that look like they proliferate can be a sign of Merkel cell carcinomas.
- Rough or firm lumps on the skin surface, sometimes scaly or reddish patches without a nodule formation, can be a sign of squamous cell carcinomas.
There are a lot more skin cancer symptoms that can be seen on your skin, and it varies based on the type of skin cancer. Irrespective of any symptoms you see, you must visit your doctor immediately without hesitation.
Skin Cancer Types
The most common skin cancer types include the following:
- Basal cell carcinoma
- Squamous cell carcinoma
- Melanoma
Other skin cancer types:
- Recurrent basal cell carcinoma
- Merkel cell carcinoma
- Kaposi sarcoma
- Sebaceous gland carcinoma
- Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans
Skin Cancer Causes
Skin cancer occurs when your body does not self-repair the damage to the DNA inside the skin cells. This allows the cells to divide, develop, or grow uncontrollably. The damage to skin cells can be due to various factors, including skin type and genetics. Skin cancers in majority are caused by too much exposure to UV (Ultraviolet) light or rays, including tanning beds and sunlight, which increase the risk and exposure.
Apart from the UV ray’s exposure, there are several other common causes of skin cancer. They are:
- Family history of skin cancer
- Moles
- Smoking
- Conditions inherited like xeroderma pigmentosum
- HPV (Human papillomavirus)
- Exposure to radiation therapy
- Psoriasis treatment
- Gorlin syndrome or basal cell nervous syndrome
- Herpesvirus associated with Kaposi sarcoma
Skin Cancer Treatment
So, who should consult for skincare treatments?
Dermatologists can identify and treat skin cancer; if anything significant needs to be reviewed by an oncologist, they will refer you to one. If your cancer has a family history, you can speak with a geneticist.
A few essential skincare treatments include:
- Chemotherapy
- Surgery to remove the cancer cells and some skin surrounding the cancer
- Radiation therapy (Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy, External Beam Radiation Therapy and TomoTherapy)
- Targeted therapy
- Immunotherapy
- Topical treatments like topical chemotherapy, photodynamic therapy, and immune response modifiers.
Skin Cancer Prevention
- Wear Sun-protective clothing
- Use sunglasses while you are under heavy sun
- Seek shade
- Wear a hat or cap for further protection
- Always wear sunscreen that is SPF50 or SPF50+
It is very important to be extra cautious during the middle of the day. Always try to stay away from UV light.
17th Dec, 2024
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