Antioxidant science

Skin protection from the inside + outside correction

Properly formulated topical antioxidants have been shown to provide internal protection from skin-damaging free radicals. Additionally some have a corrective action such as collagen synthesis and reduced hyper pigmentation resulting in a comprehensive anti-aging effect.

But what are antioxidants, how do they work, and what other benefits do these active molecules have for the skin?

What is an antioxidant?

An antioxidant is a molecule that inhibits the oxidation of other molecules.
Oxidation is a type of damage that occurs when molecules lose electrons. Five types of antioxidants found naturally in the body that protect against cellular damage are: glutathione, ubiquinone, ascorbic acid (vitamin C), alpha tocopherol (vitamin E), and alpha lipoic acid. Antioxidants work by different mechanisms to stop or neutralise damage. Out of the five antioxidants found in the body only vitamins C and E have been proven to get into skin. Additionally, there are a few plant antioxidants known to work in skin.

What’s a free radical?

Free radicals are molecules with unpaired electrons, causing them to be unstable and highly chemically reactive.
These unstable molecules are generated by UV rays, infrared radiation, pollution, and lifestyle factors like alcohol and cigarette smoke. Inside the skin, free radicals damage cells, their DNA, and other vital cellular components. Over time, free radical damage leads to visible signs of accelerated skin aging, including fine lines, wrinkles, laxity, discoloration, and even skin cancer.

While sunscreen is the first line of defence and essential for protecting skin’s surface from the damaging effects of UVA and UVB rays, sunscreen filters only protect skin from up to 55% of free radicals*. Topical antioxidants work in skin to neutralize free radicals and protect against UV damage. Incorporating a topical antioxidant and sunscreen into a daily skincare regimen provides comprehensive protection from environmental damage.

*Haywood, R., et al, J Invest Dermatol 2006;121:862-868

Skinceuticals:

The antioxidant authority

In 1997, SkinCeuticals changed the face of skincare with the introduction of Serum 10 and Serum 15, the company’s first stabilized, pure L-ascorbic acid topical antioxidants
SkinCeuticals founding scientist Dr. Sheldon Pinnell conducted research about antioxidant formulation and discovered these factors, now known as the Duke Antioxidant patent. SkinCeuticals is the only brand to formulate antioxidants according to these standards.

The skinceuticals difference

A topical vitamin C antioxidant must penetrate skin to be effective. This is dependent on three factors: The form of vitamin C used the concentration, and the pH of the solution.
In the years since the patent, each subsequent antioxidant generation has been subjected to rigorous clinical studies—and the results are clear: SkinCeuticals topical antioxidants neutralise free radicals caused by solar radiation and other environmental factors for inside protection, while synthesising collagen production for outside correction.

Arctic Plants and Berries used in Eminence Arctic Berry Radiance peel system

Used in Northern naturopathy for centuries to effectively treat and prevent disorders, this collection of arctic plants and berries is harvested from latitudes near the Arctic Circle. The ability to survive the harsh conditions encourages the creation of protective compounds in the plants, making them an effective choice for skin protection.

Cloudberry

 Is related to the raspberry

Can withstand temperatures as cold as -40°F. Is known as the “royal berry” in northern countries

Skin Benefits:

• Functions as an emollient that can soften and soothe dry skin

• Rich in essential fatty acids that promote tissue regeneration to heal and nourish the skin

• High antioxidant content protects against free radical damage

• Source of Vitamin C to promote healthy skin and protect against free radicals, also a source of Vitamin E for healing the skin

Arctic Roseroot

 Grows in areas up to 7,480 ft in elevation

Rootstocks give off a fragrance like roses

Is shown to be effective for improving mood and alleviating depression

Is shown to help with fatigue

Skin Benefits:

• Evens skin tone

• Antioxidant-rich to protect against free radical damage

• Improves the appearance ofstressed and tired skin

• Improves overall condition of skin

Arctic Meadowsweet

 Is also known as “queen of the meadow”

Is a popular digestive remedy. Was used as a stewing herb in Elizabethan times

Skin Benefits:

• Rich in flavonoids to correctfree radical damage

• Anti-inflammatory properties

• Anti-bacterial and skindetoxifier

Juniper

 Means “forever young”

The tree belongs to the pinefamily

Can survive down to -40°F

Can survive with only a few inches of water per year

Skin Benefits:

• Strong antioxidant activity to protect against free radical damage

• Acts as an astringent to tone the skin; anti-bacterial and skin detoxifier

Lymphatic drainage & dry body brushing.

 Your skin is a complex system that serves many functions and buffers your body from extreme temperatures and chemicals. It also protects you from bacteria, pollution and is in fact a crucial part of the world around you.

  Your skin also plays an important part in helping your body detoxify itself from waste and toxins that might not be able to release via other means.

  This is where dry skin brushing can be invaluable, not only in brushing off dead skin cells but also in activating waste removal via your lymph nodes.    

  Lymphatic Drainage 

  Your lymphatic system is responsible for eliminating cellular waste products. This system collects all the waste from your tissues for elimination, a process referred to as lymphatic drainage. Your lymph system does not have a pump so it requires exercise and movement to stimulate it to function well.

 When your lymphatic system is not working properly, waste and toxins can build up and make you sick. Lymphatic congestion is a major factor leading to inflammation and disease. By stimulating your lymphatic system with dry brushing you will help your body release toxins and this simple method is a powerful means detoxifying your body.

 The benefits of dry brushing

  Dry brushing will remove dead dry skin, improving its appearance, clearing your clogged pores, and allowing your skin to breathe. It will also improve circulation which helps to bring oxygen and nutrients to the skin.

  Reduces Cellulite

  Dry skin brushing is also one of the most effective ways to eliminate cellulite. It does so by softening hard fat deposits while distributing them more evenly. This helps to diminish the appearance of cellulite.

 

 How to body brush?

  The best time to do dry brushing is the morning before you take a shower. You may wish to avoid doing it at night-time since it can energize you.

  Get a high-quality dry brush with bristles made from natural materials. They should feel stiff but should not scratch.

 The pressure you apply should be firm but not painful. Don't scrub; don't brush your face or other sensitive areas that might become irritated as a result.

Start from the bottom up, at your feet, brushing always toward your heart, which is best for circulation and your lymphatic system. Continue to work your way up your legs to your arms, chest, back, and stomach.

 This as you can see is very simple and it will take a few minutes each day but it’s very powerful when done daily , soon you'll get all the health benefits of it.

Tips to help you achieve healthy glowing skin.

Smooth healthy glowing skin is a signature of youth. Understand your skin and figure out what best you can do for it. Following a healthy routine to care your skin is imperative for a healthy, youthful skin. Acne, wrinkles, pimples, tanned, dull or pale looking skin is too common these days. However, we do not require a rocket scientist to tell us that most of the damage is possible due to a unhealthy environment and our eating habits. The good news is that you can take care of your skin with simple tips and ingredients. Here are some tips listed below to obtain natural healthy, subtle and younger looking skin:

Healthy Diet:

You can keep your younger skin looking young for longer by consuming a balanced diet. A planned diet plays remarkable part for your overall well being. Eating plenty of coloured vegetables and fruits as these contribute in keeping younger, glowing and healthy skin.  A healthy & wholesome diet assures the right amount of minerals and vitamins that are vital in preventing the ageing factors.

Water Consumption:

It’s important to keep yourself hydrated for overall physical and mental well being. Skin is the major body part that can lose its beauty due to lack of water. The benefits are enhanced particularly when taking other healthy drinks as well such as herbal teas etc. Water flushes toxins out of the body that leaves you healthy and looking younger than your age.

Regular Exercise:

It’s vital to conduct regular workouts in your daily routine as it’s beneficial in promoting blood circulation. Proper blood circulation supplies oxygen and nutrients to every cell of your body, will make your skin glow. Workouts assist in maintaining good health that ultimately affects the look of your skin.

Skin Hygiene:

You should look at  your skin type before applying any soap, face wash, body wash and/or moisturiser to your skin. See that you use a product suited to your skin type. For some hand washes / shower gels / wipes etc cause skin sensitivities.

Exposure to Sunlight:

Avoid excess sunlight as much as possible, because it can be disastrous for skin colour, glow and freshness. Make it a habit to use sun block every day. Eat foods that reduces skin inflammation including vitamin C, E and omega 3 acids particularly.

Adequate Sleep:

Proper sleeping routine ranging from 6 to 8 hours is also advisable in order to maintain overall health as well as skin. It offers enough time to your body and skin to relax. Though time ranges can be different as per individual needs but taking enough rest is imperative. Remember lack of sleep accumulates over time resulting in puffiness and dull looking skin.

Dry Skin

Dry skin is very often an issue as the weather gets colder and the heating in your home and work will be blasting causing dehydration of the skin and hair.

But it does not have to be, in fact there is a lot you can do to prevent dry skin conditions.

Look for some of these ingredients in your products as they can make a difference in the way your skin looks and feels.

SkinCeuticals

Founded in 1997 by American scientist, Dr Sheldon Pinnell, SkinCeuticals is a pioneer in the advent of cosmeceuticals to the aesthetic industry around the world. Dedicated to maintaining skin health and fighting the major causes of skin ageing, SkinCeuticals makes one simple promise: to provide advanced professional skincare, backed by science.

The leading brand for antioxidants protecting skin against free radical damage, Dr Pinnell’s research team discovered the formulation of the original, stabilised topical vitamin C serum, with the exact specification for proven penetration into the skin. The strict constraints that ensure saturation into the skin revolve around the L’Ascorbic acid formulation being at the right pH level, stable and the optimum percentage for adequate penetration. These rules are now the defined parameters for the strict Duke University patent, for which all SkinCeuticals antioxidants conform.

OPI

OPI Products Inc., the world leader in professional nail care, revolutionised the nail care industry by combining leading-edge innovation and quality products with trendsetting colours and iconic names – a philosophy that has driven the company since its inception in 1981.

http://youtu.be/GNtteyKE0H8

Why is Massage so good for you?

As we continue to lead our busy lives, massage has become a necessity instead of for only relaxation. Massage has been proven to have the following benefits including stress relief, pain relief, managing anxiety and depression, stiffness, blood pressure control, infant growth, boosting immunity and assisting in healing sports-related injuries.

Massage encourages healing by promoting the flow of blood and lymph, relieving tension, stimulating nerves and stretching and loosening muscles and connective tissue to keep them elastic. It helps move lymph, blood and oxygen to the various organs and tissues in ways that normally are not happening for people.

The other reason massage has such remarkable results is the touch factor. Touch calms people, reduces blood pressure, boosts immune system function and makes people feel cared for. All of these factors are very important to those seeking health and healing.

Research around the world has proven that with health concerns such as migraines, chronic pain and depression, weekly to monthly massages have been shown to have effective, long-term benefits that assist with shorter recovery times and longer periods of well being compared to exclusive medication use.

Try to receive a massage treatment at least once a month for continued well-being.

The Irish Spa Awards 2014-Please log on and vote for us for The Irish Spa Awards 2014.

The Irish Spa Awards 2014 are here and we are delighted to be nominated under the following categories:Please log on to vote for us. Thank you!

    www.irishspaawards.com/vote

 Award for Best Day Spa or Beauty Salon 6 rooms and more -Serenity Day Spa.

Serenity Day Spa

55 Glasthule rd

Sandycove

Co Dublin

The Best Facial Therapist award

Therapist -Kate Tokarska -Employee of Nuala Woulfe - Serenity Day Spa

The Best Body Therapist award

Therapist Claire Devlin - Employee of Nuala Woulfe - Serenity Day Spa

The Best Employee category

Therapist  - Kristina Jonikaite Employee of Nuala Woulfe - Serenity Day Spa

We need your help – if you would like to see us win, please follow the link below and vote for us. #Win €250 worth of treatments.

Voting closes on the 31^st October 2014. As winning all four categories’ depends on us getting enough public votes we would really appreciate if you would #like #vote and #share and to thank you, we are offering you the chance of winning #Win€250.00 worth of #wonderful treatments. Once you vote you are sent a code to your inbox - please email this code in  the subject box with your name and contact detals to reception@nualawoulfe.ie and you will be entered in to #win this fabulous prize.

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Skin care ingredients to avoid if you have eczema and psoriasis or sensitive skin.

 

Sodium Lauryl Sulphate (SLS)

 

Sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS) and the similar sodium laureth sulphate (SLES) are detergents that act as cleansers, emulsifiers and foamers and are present in lots of household and industrial items. They are present in the vast majority of personal care products including moisturisers, body lotions and shampoos. There are several variations of these ‘sulphate’ (or sulphate) chemicals and they differ slightly in composition, but fundamentally they are the same. They appear in personal care products primarily because they’re cheap and highly effective cleansers and foaming agents.

 

They are known to be skin irritants. They are detergents and so their properties are very similar to soap – stripping the skin of moisture and protective oils. SLS is the most common of these detergent chemicals and it is the one that causes most skin irritation – it prevents the skin from being able to efficiently defend itself from the environment. It has been proven that SLS is a very abrasive irritant that was still detectable in research subjects for three weeks post use. SLES causes less irritation than SLS but is more expensive and thus SLS is frequently used. Eliminating sulphates could be all you need to do to put an end to red, itchy, and dry skin.

Both SLS and SLES have been proven to aggravate skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis and so sufferers of these conditions are advised to eliminate sulphates entirely. Signs of sensitivity to sulphates include redness, scaling and itching of the skin, and an itchy scalp and hair loss when it is used in shampoos. Anyone who experiences these symptoms should switch to sulphate free products to see if their symptoms improve.

Eminence is a good quality organic skincare line free from any nasty ingredients.

 

 

Beauty habits you need to quit

 While some of the things we do each morning in front of the mirror are tried and true beauty regimens that have been around for centuries, the majority of the rest – pulling  split ends, squeezing spots , using the same tube of mascara for months – are really bad . Of course, people have been doing all of those things for centuries too, but we've rounded up all the reasons it would be a good idea to stop. Because maybe, there's a chance at kicking these bad beauty habits for the sake of being more beautiful in the long run.

     Tweezing/ picking at ingrown hairs.

Why we do it: A blemish that hurts and basically looks like a hairy spot that  is impossible to ignore.Why it needs to stop: The truth is, you can't grab that hair. No matter how promising it seems. Never tweeze in-grown hairs on your own as this can cause an infection or scarring.To remedy this situation, exfoliate and apply pimple medicine that contains salicylic acid.  

     Holding onto makeup for years.  

Why we do it: If you spent €45 on a lipstick, or an eyeliner, chances are you don't want to admit that you aren't wearing it every day. So you leave it in your makeup bag for months and eventually, years.

Why it needs to stop: Conjunctivitis is just not worth it nor is blepharitis. All those bottles, tubes, etc of makeup essentially become mini-petri dishes for bacteria from your face, makeup brushes, and fingers. Ingredients will also eventually separate and/or evaporate, leaving you with crumbly germ flakes – never-mind the clutter it is inevitably creating in your bathroom.

     Not regularly washing makeup brushes.

Why we do it: We can barely drum up the energy to cleanse our face each day.Why it needs to stop: Bacteria and even mold will get lodged between the fibres and fester. A quick rinse with warm water and soap on a monthly basis will keep you from picking up contact dermatitis or rubbing your face with mold.

  

      Squeezing pores and/or popping spots.  

Why we do it: No matter how many times someone tells you to hold off on popping a spot, when confronted with a white head or worse, a painful, swollen, under-the-skin blemish, your first instinct is, I will not rest until I have squeezed this.

Why it needs to stop: The relief you feel from the initial squeeze is immediately replaced with the realisation that you've made a giant red spot that will last for days and no foundation will cover. Plus, chances are you're creating craters in your face, which will lead to possible lifetime scarring.

      Excessive use of black head strips.

Why we do it: It's so satisfying to see those sebum filled pores!

Why it needs to stop: Overuse will only really further dry out your skin, which makes skin produce extra sebum. It's a vicious cycle. Really try to keep these at a minimum.

   Not washing face before sleep.

Why we do it: Nightlife/work/exhaustion gets in the way.Cleaning is very important .

Why it needs to stop? Pretty much every dermatologist and facial Therapist pleads that we need to remove the day's dirt and grime each night to prevent pores from getting further clogged up with dirt and oil.

        Plucking eyebrows between wax appointments.

Why we do it: Who wants those little baby eyebrow hairs ruing our sense of perfection while they're growing back in. Why it needs to stop: Hair grows at different rates, which means those self-plucked hairs might not be long enough for the next appointment. This only means they'll crop up sooner than you'd like post-wax, perpetuating the vicious cycle.

      Cutting cuticles.

Why we do it? Because there is no consensus on whether we should or shouldn't. It's confusing.

   Why it needs to stop: The cuticles are there to protect the nail, the more you leave them alone, the less you will need to cut them. To maintain them properly apply cuticle oil. 

The foods you eat definitely affect your skin in a dramatic way. Have you ever eaten something and suddenly your skin looks amazing and it made you feel great. How about when you eat something and the next day you have a pimple? This is why I recommend that you eliminate process foods from your diet and eat organic as much as possible.The best thing I can tell is to see a nutritionist as they can help you have a healthy diet that really works for your body type and level of activity.

   Picking at split ends.

Why it needs to stop: Unless you're using proper hair shears, once you get caught up in the effort to search and destroy, you're actually just damaging the hair further (and going cross-eyed during the process).

 Plucking grey hairs.

     Why we do it: When you have a total of ten grey hairs it's hard to resist the urge to simply extract them. Out of sight, out of mind. Why it needs to stop: They're just going to grow right back, but short and stubby and more difficult to hide. Pigment helps to keep the hair soft and supple. 

      

Using oil-free skincare on oily skin.

   If  you strip an oily skin too much – it actually causes the skin to produce more oil.Picking at gel polish instead of having them professionally removed.

 Why it needs to stop: Ripping or peeling off any coating is a temptation you must resist! Doing so can weaken or damage the natural nail, as precious layers of the nail plate get pulled away with each chip of polish you take.  

     Shampooing hair daily.

Why it needs to stop: Like the skin on your body, the scalp compensates for oils that are repeatedly washed out each day. It'll take patience, but try to wean yourself of daily shampoos and you'll see your hair will find its own natural balance of oil production. You should soon be able to go at least  two  days between washes.

     Overusing the Clarisonic skin brush.

Why we do it: If a little bit is good, then a lot will get us one step closer to achieving the pore less?

      Why it needs to stop: Clarisonics or any exfoliating agent should really only be used two to three times a week; otherwise, it will actually over-scrub your skin and cause dry patches. Remember no- body needs to exfoliate daily.

      Peeling dead skin post-sunburn.

    No one wants flaky skin. Why it needs to stop: While it  may appear satisfying to peel a piece that's bigger than the last, you're grabbing healthy skin each time too. The baby-skin below is more susceptible to sunburns and infections. Instead preserve skin by lotioning up, then exfoliate in the shower with a gentle scrub 

Skin Care Tips to achieve a natural healthy glow.

 

 

·        Cleanse in the Morning and Evening-It is important to wash your skin in the morning, as you have oil on your face from sleeping, and in the evening, you have to wash off sunscreen, makeup, dirt, and pollens. Use a gentle cleanser that suits your skin type (dry, oily or combination). Remember there is no advantage in trying to strip your skin of oils by using an over abrasive cleanser as it in fact have the opposite effect.

 

·        Exfoliate -Remember nobody needs to exfoliate every day, so avoid daily scrubs. You only need to exfoliate two to three times a week, with a fine scrub. If you have very fine skin, you may like to apply the scrub while you still have your cream cleanser on your skin. Avoid the scrubs with large beads that have irregular shapes that can irritate your skin.

SkinCeuticals Retexturing Activator is a grain free exfoliator suitable for all skin types including sensitive skin. This revolutionary resurfacing and replenishing serum surpasses the results of a daily 20% glycolic acid treatment while simultaneously reinforcing the skin’s barrier for healthier, more radiant skin. Normalises epidermal renewal to create a noticeably smoother, softer surface texture. Stimulates enzymes that help break the bonds that bind dead cells to the surface of the skin, to dramatically diminish surface lines and wrinkles Speeds skin-cell turnover to improve skin’s radiance, keeping new, healthy skin on the surface. Balances skin moisture levels. Reinforces the skin's barrier

 

·        Use Vitamin A -Retinoid, which are made from vitamin A, are the one of your best ingredients against anti-ageing. Retinoid come in two forms: Retinol: You can buy products containing retinol without a prescription. Both encourage your skin to make more collagen, which gives your skin structure and elasticity. They also exfoliate your skin, removing dead, surface skin cells to soften lines. You need to allow your skin an adjustment time to get used to the product, so less is more – use as if it were made of gold. A tiny amount goes a long way. Use once or twice a week to begin and build it up. These are irritating to the skin and can cause excessive dryness and rash if you are too heavy handed. Wear a broad spectrum sunscreen daily, as these make your skin more photo- sensitive to the sun.

               Use at night and be patient as it can take months to see an improvement.

 

·        Use serums such as Skinceutical Vitamin C, which is a medical grade antioxidant combination that delivers advanced environmental protection against photo-aging by neutralising free radicals that cause accelerated signs of ageing along with refining the skin and stimulating collagen



·        Moisturise your skin- Moisturise when you get out of the shower in the morning, and after you wash your face at night, use a moisturiser to lock the moisture in your skin. This helps your skin look soft and smooth, which can help minimise the appearance of wrinkles.

·        Sunscreen is one of the most important ingredients against skin ageing- It needs to be at least 30 SPF, and look for a broad spectrum as it important to be properly protected against UVA as well as UVB, as UVA rays because collagen damage, skin lines and skin cancer, you need to wear it every day, even in winter.



·        Say No to Sun beds.-Just one session on a sunbed raises your chances of melanoma, the most dangerous type of skin cancer it also accelerates the ageing process. Instead, use fake tans or bronzer; look for organic brands to give you a risk free glow all year round if you wish.

 

·        Choose a healthy diet for a healthy glow to your skin. You have heard it said you are what you eat, so choose wisely as your diet has a really powerful impact on your skin, and health. Choose foods like olive oil, fish like salmon, walnuts, and almonds. These are high in omega-3 healthy fats, which can help minimise damage and keep your skin healthy as you age. Your skin is constantly renewing itself so the healthier your diet is, the more nutrients your skin has for this process, and the better your skin looks and feels over time. Also, stay hydrated. Drink water when you're thirsty. You also get some water from vegetables and fruit, so include those at every meal.

 



·        Say no to smoking! You will have much better-looking skin if you kick the habit. People who smoke get wrinkles sooner than those who don't smoke plus smoking causes decolouration. The physical act of smoking also works against you. Any repetitive facial movements like pulling on a cigarette, which makes your mouth pucker, cause wrinkles.

 

If you think you don't have freckles, think again.

UV light shows New Yorkers their true skin

August 14, 2014: Photographer Thomas Leveritt set up an ultraviolet camera on a city street on a sunny day to show people how sunscreen helps protect your skin.

http://youtu.be/o9BqrSAHbTc

In the disturbing video shot in Brooklyn's Prospect Park, subjects see in real-time how much impact ultraviolet light has on them.

The footage shot by Thomas Leveritt shows how looks of joy turn to looks of shock and horror as the UV light shows previously invisible changes to their skin.

"I found that people reacted so strongly and interestingly to seeing themselves in UV, I decided I should capture that," Leveritt told Co.Create.

Almost everybody featured in the video is absolutely covered in hidden freckles, with the older participants more affected than the youths.

But the most remarkable part of the video is the impact that sunscreen has when applied.

Woods Lamp explained - used in skin analysis uses ultraviolet .

A Wood’s lamp is a mercury vapour ultraviolet lamp with a filter of barium silicate glass with 9% nickel oxide. The filter allows UV light in the wavelength of 320 to 400 nanometres only while blocking out all other wavelengths. Wood’s lamp mainly emits ultraviolet light in the wavelength of 360 nanometres.

Wood’s Lamp in the Diagnosis of Fungal Infection of the Scalp

Tinea capitis, the fungal infection of the scalp, is caused by different species of fungi. Examination of the scalp in a dark room with Wood’s lamp produces a greenish fluorescence when the infection is caused by certain species like the Microsporum and Trichophyton schoenleini. Wood’s lamp examination is particularly useful in rapidly diagnosing outbreak of tinea capitis in large number of cases as in community schools and boarding. Earlier diagnosis and management prevents further spread of the disease.

The disadvantage is that, at times, the fungal infection is caused by nonfluorescing species like Trihophyton violaceum. Hence a negative Wood’s lamp examination does not rule out presence of fungal infection.

Wood’s Lamp in Pigmentary Disorders of the Skin

In light-skinned individuals, it may be difficult to distinguish between normal skin and slightly hypo pigmented (light white colour) areas in diseases like pityriasis versicolor, pityriasis alba and ash leaf macules present in the genetic disease tuberous sclerosis. These are accentuated when examined under the Wood’s lamp. The extent of vitiligo patches also can be clearly delineated in the fair skinned with the help of the Wood’s lamp.

In pigmentary disorders like melasma and freckles, the level of melanin deposition can be differentiated using Wood’s lamp. Dark colour due to pigments in the outer epidermal layer of the skin is accentuated while the colour of the deeper dermal pigments is decreased during Wood’s lamp examination.

Wood’s Lamp Examination in the Diagnosis of Bacterial Infections of the Skin

Wood’s lamp fluoresce a coral pink colour in eythrasma, a superficial bacterial infection causing brownish red patches on the skin. A yellowish green fluorescence is typical of Pseudomonas pyocyanea infection.

Wood’s Lamp in the Diagnosis of Porphyrias

Porphyrias are a group of inherited and acquired disorders resulting from certain enzyme defects in the body. These could range from life threatening disease to disease limited to skin. In porphyrias, the urine is high-colored and the skin is highly photosensitive with other changes in hair, nails and other internal organs. A pinkish or orange red fluorescence of the urine accentuated by the addition of dilute hydrochloric acid helps in making a presumptive diagnosis of porphyiria cutanea tarda using Wood’s lamp. The same fluorescence is present in the stools and blister fluids of these patients.

Wood’s Lamp to Detect Scabies Burrows

Fluorescine or tetracycline rubbed into the skin allows the identification of scabies burrows under Wood’s light.

Similarly, drug deposits like tetracycline in the teeth and mepacrine in the nails can be diagnosed from the yellow fluorescence under Wood’s lamp examination.

Wood’s lamp, thus, is a simple and cost effective tool in the diagnosis of a variety of skin diseases.

Source:

Bedi BMS. Principles of Clinical Diagnosis in IADVL Textbook of Dermatology, 3rd Ed, 2008

Start the School Year with Clear skin! Heal Teen and Adult Acne

Start the School Year with Clear skin!

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