Skin

The skin is the largest organ of the human body. Its size (about 20 square feet on an average sized adult) and external location make it susceptible to a wide variety of diseases, disorders, discolorations and growths, as well as to damage from the environment and the aging process. The skin is one of the most vulnerable organs of the body. Though seldom life threatening, skin disorders can be uncomfortable and may cause chronic disabilities. In addition, because the skin is so visible, skin disorders can lead to psychological stress.

While sitting up, apply a cool tap water compress to the skin under the eyes for a few minutes. Chilled cucumber slices, a refrigerated gel mask or chilled, damp tea bags also work well. Sunscreen agents prevent sunburn. Limiting exposure to the sun and using sun block and sunscreen when in the sun may help prevent early wrinkling and skin cancer. There are two kinds of sunscreen agents: chemical and physical. Chemical sunscreen agents protect the skin from the sun by absorbing the ultraviolet (UV) and visible sunrays, while physical sunscreen agents reflect, scatter, absorb or block these rays. passages malibu cost Passages Malibu Scam On a daily basis, toxins and environmental factors do damage to the skin on your face. It must withstand pollution, exposure to ultraviolet rays, wind and debris, as well as the harmful chemicals in most all skin care products and cosmetics. The skin on your face is the most delicate skin on your body. Dermatologists developed special products specifically for facial skin. It can be difficult to decipher which products perform which tasks, and which products would work the best with a particular skin type. the passages malibu Passages Malibu Scam A skin tag is a common, benign condition that consists of a bit of skin which projects from the surrounding skin and may appear attached to the skin. Skin tags can vary quite a bit in appearance. They may be smooth or irregular, flesh colored or more deeply pigmented, and either simply be raised above the surrounding skin or have a stalk so that the skin tag hangs from the skin. Americans spend billions of dollars each year on skin care products that promise to erase wrinkles, lighten age spots and eliminate itching, flaking or redness. Yet, the simplest and cheapest way to keep skin healthy and young looking is to stay out of the sun. Sunlight is a major cause of the skin changes we think of as aging--changes such as wrinkles, dryness and age spots. The skin does change as it ages. For example, with age, people sweat less, leading to increased skin dryness. As the skin ages, it becomes thinner and loses fat, so it looks less plump and smooth. Underlying structures--veins and bones in particular--become more prominent. Skin can take longer to heal when injured. passages malibu.com Passages Malibu Scam Here is a glossy of terms for skin conditions. Atrophic means thin. Wrinkled and blistered skin is fluid-filled. Bumps and crust or scabs indicate the formation of dried blood, pus or other skin fluid over a break in the skin. A cyst is a deep lesion that contains pus. Excoriation is a hollowed-out or linear area covered by a crust. Hives or wheals entail a pink swelling of the skin. Lichenification describes skin that has thickened. A macule is a smaller version of a patch or a flat discolored spot. A nodule or papule is a solid, raised bump. Raised bumps describe bumps that stick out above the skin surface whereas a patch is flat, and discolored. A pustule refers to a pimple, which is an inflamed lesion that looks like a pink bump. Scales are dead skin cells that appear as flakes or dry skin. A scar is fibrous tissue that has formed after a skin injury. passages malibu book review Passages Malibu Scam The skin is the largest organ of the human body. Its size (about 20 square feet on an average sized adult) and external location make it susceptible to a wide variety of diseases, disorders, discolorations and growths, as well as to damage from the environment and the aging process. The skin is one of the most vulnerable organs of the body. Though seldom life threatening, skin disorders can be uncomfortable and may cause chronic disabilities. In addition, because the skin is so visible, skin disorders can lead to psychological stress. passages malibu ca Passages Malibu Scam Sensitive skin is a thin or a fine-textured skin that reacts quickly to both heat and cold and therefore sunburns and windburns easily. It is commonly dry, delicate and prone to allergic reactions. Temperature changes, some detergents, cosmetics and alcohol (used on the skin) can all cause irritation, leaving the skin red and blotchy, with visible surface veins. The skin is the largest organ of the human body. Its size (about 20 square feet on an average sized adult) and external location make it susceptible to a wide variety of diseases, disorders, discolorations and growths, as well as to damage from the environment and the aging process. Passages Malibu Scam Retinoids are a group of medications that normalize the follicle cell lifecycle. There are topical retinoids such as tretinoin (brand name Retin-A), adapalene (brand name Differin) and tazarotene (brand name Tazorac). Like isotretinoin, these medications are similar to vitamin A, but they are topical treatments and generally have much milder side effects. However, they can cause significant irritation of the skin. The retinoids appear to influence the creation and death lifecycle of cells in the follicle lining. This helps prevent the hyper-keratinization of these cells that can create a blockage. Retinol, a form of vitamin A, has similar but milder effects and doctors prescribe because it also contains moisturizers. Doctors have prescribed topical retinoids for over 30 years, but are not available over the counter, so they are not as widely used as other topical treatments. Topical retinoids often cause an initial flare up of acne and facial flushing. Passages Malibu Scam Sunlight can improve skin care in the short-term. However, recent studies have shown that exposure to sunlight worsens acne in the long-term [citation needed]. More recently, visible light treatments (phototherapy) have successfully treated mild acne--in particular intense violet light (405-420nm) generated by purpose-built fluorescent lighting, dichroic bulbs, LEDs or lasers. Used twice weekly, this procedure resulted in a reduction of the number of acne lesions by about 64 percent. Studies show that this treatment is even more effective when applied daily. Scientifically speaking, the method of violet light treatment is effective because porphyrin (Coproporphyrin III), produced within P. acnes, generates free radicals when irradiated by 420nm and shorter wavelengths of light. Over the course of a few days, these free radicals ultimately kill the bacteria they spawned from. Since porphyrins are not otherwise present in skin, and the UV light applied is safe in its spectrum, this treatment is safe and licensed by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The ultra violet treatment works even better with red visible light (660nm) resulting in a 76 percent reduction of lesions after three months of daily treatment for 80 percent of patients. The overall skin clearing was similar or better than benzoyl peroxide. Unlike most of the other treatments, there are few if any negative side effects to this treatment and a development of bacterial resistance seems very unlikely. After treatment, a patient can achieve clear skin with topical or oral antibiotic treatments. The equipment or treatment, however, is relatively new and expensive, although the total cost of ownership may outweigh other costs (such as the total cost of benzoyl peroxide, moisturizer, and washes) over a couple of years. Passages Malibu Scam Natural skin care is the care of the skin (the largest organ of the body) using naturally derived ingredients (such as herbs, roots, and flowers) combined with naturally occurring carrier agents (everything from natural soap to oils to pure water). Many people with sensitive skin turn to natural skin care solutions. Many people use natural skin care recipes to care for their skin at home. Many spas and skin care salons now focus on using more naturally derived skin care products. There is, however, no actual definition of "natural." All ingredients are chemicals by definition. "Derived" ingredients are "unnatural," according to both their original substance and the method of derivation. The term "natural" has considerable market value when promoting cosmetic products to consumers, but dermatologists say it has very little medical meaning. Passages Malibu Scam Laser surgery has been in use for some time and reduces the scars left behind by acne, but doctors have done little research on lasers treatments for the prevention of acne. Doctors use the laser to address the following: to burn away the follicle sac from which hair grows; to burn away the sebaceous gland that produces oil; to induce oxygen in the bacteria, thereby killing them. Since lasers and intense pulsed light sources cause thermal damage to the skin, there are concerns that laser or intense pulsed light treatments for acne will induce hyperpigmented macules (spots) or cause long-term dryness of the skin. In the United States, the FDA has approved several companies, such as Candela Corp., to use a cosmetic lasers for the treatment of acne. However, efficacy studies have used very small sample sizes (fewer than 100 subjects) for periods of six months or less, and have shown contradictory results. Because laser treatment are relatively new, protocols remain subject to experimentation and revision, and treatment can be quite expensive. In addition, the company that produces some Smoothbeam laser devices recalled their products due to coolant failure, which had resulted in painful burn injuries to patients. In females, hormonal treatments can improve acne. The common combined oestrogen and progestogen methods of hormonal contraception have some effect, but the antiandrogen, Cyproterone, in combination with an oestrogen (Diane-35) is particularly effective at reducing androgenic hormone levels. Diane-35 is not available in the USA, but a newer oral contraceptive containing the progestin drospirenone is now available with fewer side effects than Diane-35 or Dianette. Diane-35 is effective where blood tests show abnormally high levels of androgens. Along with this, treatment with low dose spironolactone can have anti-androgenetic properties, especially in patients with polycystic ovarian syndrome. Passages Malibu Scam For clear, pure, balanced and hydrated skin, everyone needs the gentle cleansing of a complete line of facial skin care products. Some skin care products will exfoliate and balance the pH of the skin and complexion by controlling excess sebum and exfoliating dead skin cells. Always replenish, revitalize, soothe, calm, hydrate: a natural skin care product line is designed to relieve environmental stress with natural properties that are ideal for all skin types, from dry and delicate to normal to oily. Many serious skin care products not only revitalize but some work as an excellent eye make up remover or as a simple spritz of refreshing revitalizing hydration. passages malibu ca Passages Malibu Scam Many older people suffer from dry skin, particularly on their lower legs, elbows and forearms. The skin feels rough and scaly and often causes a distressing, intense itchiness. Low humidity--caused by overheating during the winter and air conditioning during the summer--contributes to dryness and itching. The loss of sweat and oil glands with age may worsen dry skin. Anything that further dries out the skin--such as overuse of soaps, antiperspirants, perfumes or hot baths--will make the problem worse. Dehydration, sun exposure, smoking and stress also may cause dry skin. Dry skin itches because it is irritated easily. If your skin is very dry and itchy, see a doctor. Dry skin and itching can affect your sleep, cause irritability or be a symptom of a disease. For example, diabetes and kidney disease can cause itching. Some medicines make the itchiness worse. The most common treatment for dry skin is moisturizing to reduce water loss and to soothe the skin. Moisturizers come in several forms: ointments, creams and lotions. Ointments are mixtures of water in oil, usually either lanolin or petrolatum. Creams are preparations of oil in water, which is the main ingredient. Creams are more often than ointments to be as effective. Lotions contain powder crystals dissolved in water, again the main ingredient. Because of their high water content, they feel cool on the skin and do not leave the skin feeling greasy. Although they are easy to apply and may be more pleasing than ointments and creams, lotions lack the same protective qualities. Lotions should applied more frequently to relieve the signs and symptoms of dryness. People should always use moisturizers to prevent recurrence of dry skin. passages malibu book review Passages Malibu Scam Even if your favorite star was born with a flawless complexion, she has a few tricks that help keep it that way. By far, the most important thing you can do for your skin is to be diligent about sun protection, which is the best defense against skin cancer. Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer and it is the most preventable. passages malibu.com Passages Malibu Scam Sunlight can improve skin care in the short-term. However, recent studies have shown that exposure to sunlight worsens acne in the long-term [citation needed]. More recently, visible light treatments (phototherapy) have successfully treated mild acne--in particular intense violet light (405-420nm) generated by purpose-built fluorescent lighting, dichroic bulbs, LEDs or lasers. Used twice weekly, this procedure resulted in a reduction of the number of acne lesions by about 64 percent. Studies show that this treatment is even more effective when applied daily. Scientifically speaking, the method of violet light treatment is effective because porphyrin (Coproporphyrin III), produced within P. acnes, generates free radicals when irradiated by 420nm and shorter wavelengths of light. Over the course of a few days, these free radicals ultimately kill the bacteria they spawned from. Since porphyrins are not otherwise present in skin, and the UV light applied is safe in its spectrum, this treatment is safe and licensed by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The ultra violet treatment works even better with red visible light (660nm) resulting in a 76 percent reduction of lesions after three months of daily treatment for 80 percent of patients. The overall skin clearing was similar or better than benzoyl peroxide. Unlike most of the other treatments, there are few if any negative side effects to this treatment and a development of bacterial resistance seems very unlikely. After treatment, a patient can achieve clear skin with topical or oral antibiotic treatments. The equipment or treatment, however, is relatively new and expensive, although the total cost of ownership may outweigh other costs (such as the total cost of benzoyl peroxide, moisturizer, and washes) over a couple of years. the passages malibu Passages Malibu Scam The most advanced skin products penetrate deeper where skin problems start. They can alleviate spider veins, loose skin, skin firming on the eyes, neck, face and body, stretch marks on thighs and the breasts and more! Under-eye puffiness is usually only a temporary cosmetic concern and rarely a sign of a serious underlying medical condition. Some tips for reducing mild under-eye puffiness are: Raise the height of the head while in bed at night. This helps prevent fluids from accumulating around the eyes during sleep. While sitting up, apply a cool tap water compress to the skin under the eyes for a few minutes. Chilled cucumber slices, a refrigerated gel mask or chilled, damp tea bags also work well. Sunscreen agents prevent sunburn. Limiting exposure to the sun and using sun block and sunscreen when in the sun may help prevent early wrinkling and skin cancer. There are two kinds of sunscreen agents: chemical and physical. Chemical sunscreen agents protect the skin from the sun by absorbing the ultraviolet (UV) and visible sunrays, while physical sunscreen agents reflect, scatter, absorb or block these rays. passages malibu cost Passages Malibu Scam Changes in the pilosebaceous units (skin structures consisting of a hair follicle and the associated subcutaneous gland) result in acne vulgaris. Severe acne is inflammatory, but acne can also manifest in non-inflammatory forms. Acne lesions are pimples, spots or zits. Acne is most common during adolescence, affecting more than affecting more than 85 percent of teenagers, and frequently continues into adulthood. For most people, acne diminishes over time and tends to disappear, or at the very least decrease after the early twenties. There is, however, no way to predict how long acne can take to disappear entirely, and some individuals continue to suffer well into their thirties, forties and beyond. Most commonly, the face and upper neck regions are affected, but there may be acne on the chest, back and shoulders as well. Acne may appear on the upper arms, but lesions found there are often keratosis pilaris, not acne. Typical acne lesions are comedones, inflammatory papules, pustules and nodules. Some of the large nodules are cysts and nodulocystic describes severe cases of inflammatory acne. passages malibu reviews Passages Malibu Scam There are many products available for the treatment of acne that do not have any proven scientific effects on acne. Generally speaking, within the first two weeks, acne treatments improve skin very little, instead taking a period of approximately three months to improve and start flattening out. Many treatments that promise big improvements within two weeks are likely to be largely disappointing. However, short bursts of cortisone gives very quick results, and other treatments rapidly improve some active spots, but usually not all active spots. Modes of improvement are not necessarily fully understood usually treatments are believed to work in at least four different ways (with many of the best treatments having multiple simultaneous effects): Normalizing shedding into the pore to prevent blockage; killing P. acnes; anti-inflammatory effects; hormonal manipulation. A combination of treatments can greatly reduce the amount and severity of acne in many cases and are the most effective. Combination treatments also tend to have greater potential side effects and need a greater degree of monitoring, so doctors usually treat acne in steps. Many people consult with doctors when deciding which treatments to use, especially when considering using any treatments in combination. passages malibu wiki Passages Malibu Scam Acne is a skin disease caused by changes in the skin structures consisting of a hair follicle and its associated subcutaneous gland. Severe acne inflames, but acne can also manifest in non-inflammatory forms. Common acne lesions are pimples, spots or zits. Acne is most common during adolescence, affecting more than 85 percent of teenagers, and frequently continues into adulthood. For most people, acne diminishes over time and tends to disappear, or at the very least decrease after the early twenties. There is, however, no way to predict how long acne can take to disappear entirely, and some individuals continue to suffer well into their thirties, forties and beyond. Most commonly, the face and upper neck regions are affected, but there may be acne on the chest, back and shoulders as well. Acne may appear on the upper arms, but lesions found there are often keratosis pilaris, not acne. Typical acne lesions are comedones, inflammatory papules, pustules and nodules. Some of the large nodules are cysts and nodulocystic describes severe cases of inflammatory acne. Aside from scarring, the main effects of acne are psychological, resulting in reduced self-esteem and, according to at least one study, depression or suicide. Acne usually appears during adolescence, when people already tend to be most socially insecure. Early and aggressive treatment of acne can lessen its overall impact on the skin and the self-esteem of a person. passages malibu help Passages Malibu Scam Breast augmentation results in a small scar around the areola. Some scarring on the underarm or around the breasts may occur. Scar revision surgery reduces these scars. If the scarring is not very visible, most patients do not do anything about the scar. If a scar is moderately visible, thick, raised or discolored, patients elect to have a revision surgery. A patient must take care of the surgical area after surgery because it is very important and helps minimize the size of the scar. passages malibu holistic Passages Malibu Scam The visible and palpable wrinkling of implants and breast skin occurs in patients who lack breast tissue coverage over an implant. The more breast tissue that covers an implants, the less visible the natural ripples in the implants are. Patients should expect some wrinkling with silicone gel-filled or saline breast implants. In patients who have silicone gel-filled implants with textured surfaces, wrinkling is more visible. Folds in the implants may be prominent enough to be palpable inside the breast and may be confused with palpable tumors. Doctors will investigate such discrepancies by using an ultrasound or mammogram. Folds in an implant are rarely the sites of weakening or rupture of the implant shell. passages malibu blog Passages Malibu Scam Breast augmentation results in a small scar around the areola. Some scarring on the underarm or around the breasts may occur. Scar revision surgery reduces these scars. If the scarring is not very visible, most patients do not do anything about the scar. If a scar is moderately visible, thick, raised or discolored, patients elect to have a revision surgery. A patient must take care of the surgical area after surgery because it is very important and helps minimize the size of the scar. passages malibu health Passages Malibu Scam Normally some bruising and swelling occurs after breast augmentation. Certain variables increase the severity of bruising or excess swelling that a patient experiences. Herbal supplements, blood thinning medications, aspirin or anti-inflammatory medications affect the skin in or near the surgical site causing it to appear either lighter or darker than surrounding skin. Although uncommon, swelling and skin discoloration may persist for long periods and, in rare situations, may be permanent. passages malibu book Passages Malibu Scam The nerve supplies from the spinal cord travel around the back of the body and to the nipple and areola complex. While creating a pocket for the implant, the doctor may injure the nerve supply to the breast or nipple areola complex. Most damage is typically temporary, but permanent or partial loss of nipple and skin sensation may occur. Patients may experience diminished sensitivity of the nipples and the skin of the breast. Changes in nipple sensation may affect sexual erectile response or the ability to breast feed a baby. passages malibu scam Passages Malibu Scam The visible and palpable wrinkling of implants and breast skin occurs in patients who lack breast tissue coverage over an implant. The more breast tissue that covers an implants, the less visible the natural ripples in the implants are. Patients should expect some wrinkling with silicone gel-filled or saline breast implants. In patients who have silicone gel-filled implants with textured surfaces, wrinkling is more visible. Folds in the implants may be prominent enough to be palpable inside the breast and may be confused with palpable tumors. Doctors will investigate such discrepancies by using an ultrasound or mammogram. Folds in an implant are rarely the sites of weakening or rupture of the implant shell. passages malibu center Passages Malibu Scam Skin resurfacing improves facial wrinkles, uneven pigmentation and certain scars caused by acne. Chemical peels, dermabrasion and laser skin resurfacing are popular methods of skin resurfacing. Aging, sun exposure, genetic predispositions and lifestyle factors including alcohol consumption and smoking, all may contribute to facial wrinkling. Prior acne on the face may make the surface of the skin uneven. Changes of the skin, such as blotchiness or brown spots, may also occur with age or because of birth control pills, pregnancy or genetic factors. Patients may have their skin resurfaced at almost any age. Chemical peels, dermabrasion and laser skin resurfacing remove layers of skin. As the skin heals, new, healthier-looking skin emerges. Chemical peels involve the application of a caustic solution; dermabrasion utilizes a high-speed rotary wheel; laser resurfacing utilizes a laser beam. Chemical peels vary according to their specific ingredients and their strength. Generally, the most superficial peels are those that contain alpha hydroxy acids (AHA) such as glycolic acid. AHA peels can reduce the effects of aging and sun damage, including fine wrinkling and brown spots. Patients do not require anesthesia or sedation and will feel only a tingling or mild stinging sensation when the doctor applies the solution. A trichloroacetic acid (TCA) peel treats wrinkles, pigment changes and skin blemishes. TCA provides a medium or deep peel, depending on the acid concentration and manner of application. A phenol peel treats particularly rough and sun-damaged facial skin. It can correct problems including blotchiness or age-related brown spots and addresses precancerous skin conditions. Dermabrasion uses a small, rapidly spinning wheel with a roughened surface similar to fine-grade sandpaper to abrade the skin, removing its upper layers. This procedure is for the treatment of facial scars such as acne. Skin resurfacing using a carbon dioxide (CO2) laser removes skin layers by vaporization. passages malibu rehab Passages Malibu Scam A doctor performs reconstruction with a local flap after the removal of a large lesion or one that is frozen in sections. A flap may also be necessary when excision may result in a disfiguring appearance. A local flap repositions healthy, adjacent tissue over the wound. A suture line follows the natural creases and curves of the skin if possible, thereby minimizing the appearance of a scar. In a skin graft, a surgeon removes healthy skin from one area of the body and relocates it to the wound site. passages in malibu Passages Malibu Scam Treating skin cancer, much like any form of cancer, may require surgery to remove cancerous growths. The plastic surgeon can surgically remove cancerous and other skin lesions using specialized techniques designed to preserve the health and appearance of the surrounding skin. Although no surgery is without scars, plastic surgeons make every effort to treat skin cancer without dramatically changing the appearance of the patient. Depending on the size, type, and location of the lesion, there are many ways to remove skin cancer and reconstruct the area if necessary. Anesthesiologists administer medications to preserve the comfort of the patient during the surgical procedures. The choices include local intravenous sedation and general anesthesia. A surgeon may remove a small or contained lesion with excision--a simple surgical process. Skin cancer can be like an iceberg. What is visible on the skin surface sometimes is only a small portion of the growth. Beneath the skin, cancerous cells can cover a much larger region and there are no defined borders. In these cases, a surgeon uses a specialized technique called Mohs surgery. passages of malibu Passages Malibu Scam Laser skin tightening is a minimally invasive procedure that causes the skin to contract by heating the collagen under the surface of the skin using laser source. Laser tightening is suitable for both men and women for all skin tones and skin types. It yields excellent results without being invasive or requiring a prolonged recovery period. Signs of aging such as sagging loose skin around the face and neck may be treatable by laser skin tightening. Most people who undergo laser skin tightening see permanent results as the procedure renews the collagen under the surface of the skin. Titan and Polaris systems are the most popular skin tightening treatments. These systems utilize laser technology and gently heat the collagen under the skin surface while keeping the outer layers of the skin cool. This procedure is effective on all areas of the face and the body. With this procedure, the results of the facial skin tightening are immediately visible. Additional skin tightening is visible in the first few months. malibu passages Passages Malibu Scam Laser skin resurfacing can reduce facial wrinkles, scars and blemishes. Newer laser technologies allow plastic surgeons a new level of control in laser surfacing, permitting extreme precision, especially in delicate areas. It is all about using beams of light. Laser skin resurfacing also involves a laser peel, laser vaporization or lasabrasion. The surgeon uses the laser to send short, concentrated pulsating beams of light directed at irregular skin, which removes unwanted, damaged skin in a very precise manner, one layer at a time. This targeted approach means there are fewer problems with hypopigmentation, or a lightening of skin, in procedures like laser acne scar removal. In laser resurfacing, the laser removes the outer layer of skin, called the epidermis. It simultaneously heats the underlying skin, called the dermis. This action works to stimulate growth of new collagen fibers. As the treated area heals, the new skin that forms is smoother and firmer. Laser resurfacing can improve minor facial flaws such as fine lines or wrinkles around or under the eyes, forehead or mouth. It treats aged and sun-damaged skin. Laser resurfacing improves the complexion of the patient especially if he or she has yellowish or grayish skin tones. passages malibu