Tag: Body Care

  • Vitamin D for Skin, Hair & Body

    Vitamin D is very important for many functions in the body.

    • It Supports cardiovascular health and regulates blood pressure
    • Important in the absorption of certain nutrients such as calcium and phosphorus
    • Plays a part in regulating insulin and blood sugar levels
    • Supports the immune system

    Sources of Vitamin D

    Unlike other vitamins, vitamin D is not naturally found in food. Our body is able to synthesize vitamin D by processing sunlight when it hits the skin. On average, we need about 10 – 15 minutes of sunlight exposure every day.

    For those who do not receive adequate sun exposure, vitamin D deficiency is often a result. Vitamin D deficiency can cause many problems such as fatigue, weakened bones, joint pain, muscle cramping and other problems.

    In cases of vitamin D deficiency or in cases for those who do not have adequate sun exposure where they live, vitamin D can be obtained from foods fortified with vitamin D such as milk, orange juice and cheese and cereals. Other natural sources of vitamin D include seafood such as salmon and tuna.

    Try to enjoy the mild morning sun because this is the commonest source of vitamin D. You can also eat vitamin D rich foods such as fish oil, eggs, organic meats, etc. Your doctor may suggest high dose vitamin D supplementation if it’s too low.

    10 Beauty Benefits of Vitamin D

    1. Promotes Beautiful Skin
      The skin is the largest organ. The state of the skin is often a good indicator of the health of the body. Vitamin D is very vital for the proper functioning of the skin.
    2. Treats Acne
      If you are suffering from persistent acne, supplementing with vitamin D can do wonders for your skin. Many of those battling with severe acne actually find a significant reduction in acne when supplementing with vitamin D.
    3. Heals Psoriasis
      Stress is a known aggravator for psoriasis and vitamin D is an important regulator of stress. Vitamin D can help reduce inflammation, redness and swelling in psoriasis. Supplementing with vitamin D can help prevent psoriasis flare-ups.
    4. Reduces the Appearance of Stretch Marks
      Vitamin D is helps in the overall function of skin and helps prevent stretch marks by increasing the elasticity of the skin. It helps in the proper formation of skin to help reduce the occurrence of stretch marks, scars and dark spots.
    5. Prevents Premature Aging of Skin
      Premature aging is when the skin starts developing wrinkles, fine lines, skin tags and age spots at a young age. It often occurs as a result of free radical damage on the skin. Vitamin D acts as an antioxidant to combat oxidative stress and free radical damage on the skin.
    6. Treats Eczema
      Eczema is characterized by rough inflamed patches of skin that can form blisters that can cause itching and bleeding. Vitamin D can help treat conditions such as eczema. It can help greatly reduce the symptoms of eczema such as dryness, itchiness, inflammation, and pain.
    7. Relieves Rosacea
      Rosacea is a chronic, relapsing condition characterized by redness and pimples mostly on the facial region. Vitamin D reduces swelling and redness of skin. It can help treat and manage rosacea.
    8. Promotes Hair Growth
      Vitamin D receptors found in hair follicles play a vital role in the growth and resting cycles of the hair. Vitamin D signals to the keratinocytes found in the follicles to stimulate the growth of hair.
    9. Prevents Hair Loss
      One of the signs of vitamin D deficiency or insufficiency is actually hair loss. Healthy hair follicles have a good supply of vitamin that allows them to function properly. Vitamin D is often lacking in damaged hair follicles and this leads to hair loss.
    10. Helps in Maintaining a Healthy Weight
      Lack of vitamin D can lead to weight gain and difficulty in losing weight. Insufficient vitamin D in the blood, makes the body convert calories to fat at a rapid rate. Vitamin D is also needed for the absorption of nutrients such as calcium, which aid in weight loss.

    Caution When Taking Vitamin D!
    If you suspect you have vitamin D deficiency, consult a doctor before self-diagnosing. The doctor will confirm your vitamin D levels through a blood test. Overdose of vitamin D is very fatal, toxic and can lead to death!!

    Kosmoderma Skin, Hair & Lasers Clinics are dedicated to medical excellence in the field of Cosmetic Dermatology with international accreditation and facilities.
    We offer scientifically proven treatments using US FDA approved technology. All our products have undergone extensive research and trials in USA, Europe and India. We pride ourselves in offering safe, effective and affordable treatments with high standards of quality. Kosmoderma gives personalized consults with skin care and uses facial analyzer and 3D imaging of the skin to analyze and personalize the treatments and skin regimen.

  • Bikini Line Issues? Here’s how to groom the Bikini Area.

    What is the Bikini Line?

    The bikini line is the area of hair-bearing skin at the upper and outer edges of the pubic region, near the inner thighs. For many, this area is sensitive, which is why grooming requires care and attention. Knowing about the bikini line helps you select a grooming method that is safe, effective, and suited to this sensitive area.

    Why do people groom the bikini line?

    People choose to groom the bikini line for various reasons:

    • Hygiene – Removing excess hair can help maintain cleanliness.
    • Comfort – Grooming can reduce irritation caused by friction.
    • Confidence – A groomed bikini line often makes people feel more confident in swimwear and intimate settings.

    While the reasons vary, the goal is usually to feel comfortable and maintain personal hygiene.

    Let’s first look at the challenges that one may face with shaving, waxing and/or using a depilatory method for removing bikini area hair removal.

    Ingrown Hair

    When you find yourself in this situation in which the stuff you’re trying to REMOVE creates even more issues, try 1% hydrocortisone cream. Apply a small amount of cream right after you shave to the irritated area and continue to use it twice a day for a few days, if needed. Try to avoid shaving over areas of irritation or open areas on the skin.

    Avoid the problem entirely by practicing exfoliating in this area. You might not think it’s necessary because it’s not your face, but it may keep your hair growing in the right direction

    Razor Burn

    As if shaving didn’t seem dangerous enough, a rash or “burn” from the blade is another issue. Razor burn, irritation, and ingrown hairs can actually all be caused by using a low quality or dull razor and bad shaving habits like pressing too hard and going over the same area multiple times.

    Razor burns can be prevented by putting a few steps into place in your showering routine. First, you’re going to need to get a razor that creates a close shave. Then try standing under warm water, allowing the water to saturate this area, for about three minutes. This will make the hair softer and easier to cut.

    Finally, use a shave gel for this area. Its an important step in your shaving process, as it allows your razor to glide more easily over your skin and lessen the chance of razor burns.

    If you already have razor burn, reach for a topical antibiotic and a mild steroid lotion to help with inflammation.

    Pigmentation

    Uneven patches of pigmented skin on your bikini line have a few potential causes. This can include repeated rubbing of a certain area, like tight-fitting clothes or rubbing of thighs due to overweight, prolonged irritation and inflammation, and pushing too hard with a razor while shaving. Talk to a dermatologist, who may prescribe a skin pigmentation treatment, such as a lightening cream, if it doesn’t go away.

    Yeast/Fungal Infections

    It’s not as common as, say, razor burn, but it’s still something you should be mindful of in the season of sweat and humidity. In the summer, sometimes people get irritation and yeast/fungal infections in skin folds from moist skin, and rubbing only makes shaving or waxing in this area uncomfortable. Make sure to change out of wet clothes right after working out and use anti-fungal powder to avoid this problem.

    You may try this home remedy.

    Cucumber juice has skin-lightening properties. The vitamin A in cucumbers helps reduce skin darkness by controlling your skin’s production of melanin. Plus, the high water content helps keep the skin hydrated and glowing.

    Extract the juice from ½ of a cucumber and apply it all over your bikini area. Leave it on for 10 to 15 minutes, then rinse it off with cool water. Repeat twice daily for quick results.

    Alternatively, mix 2 tablespoons of cucumber juice with ½ tablespoon each of lemon juice and turmeric powder. Apply it to your dark pubic area. Keep it on the skin for 10 minutes, then rinse it off with cool water. Repeat once daily.

    How to Remove Bikini Hair: Safe & Effective Methods

    There are different ways to manage bikini hair. The best way to remove bikini hair depends on personal preference and skin sensitivity. Some options include:

    • Shaving – Quick and easy, but may cause razor bumps or ingrown hairs.
    • Waxing – Provides longer-lasting results, though it can be painful for sensitive skin.
    • Hair Removal Creams – Gentle formulas designed for intimate areas can work, but always patch-test first.
    • Laser Hair Reduction – A long-term solution that targets hair at the root, leaving smoother skin with minimal regrowth.

    When deciding how to remove bikini hair, choose a method that suits your skin type and tolerance. For lasting results and reduced irritation, professional treatments are often recommended.

    Unwanted Hair in Bikini – Laser Hair Reduction is the answer.

    When performed properly, laser hair removal is an excellent solution for a smooth, hair free bikini area.Brazilian Bikini laser hair removal is popular with men and women. Laser hair removal can be very safe for removing unwanted hair in the bikini area without getting any ingrown hair or irritation. Laser hair removal in the bikini area targets hair from the root, ensuring long-lasting smoothness. It is vital to choose an experienced provider who has a laser to work with your skin type. Typically, patients need 5 treatments to experience an 85% improvement in the thickness, amount, and texture of the treated hair*. Treatments are performed monthly.

    Kosmoderma Skin, Hair & Lasers Clinics are dedicated to medical excellence in the field of Cosmetic Dermatology with international accreditation and facilities.
    We offer scientifically proven treatments using US FDA approved technology. All our products have undergone extensive research and trials in USA, Europe and India. We pride ourselves in offering safe, effective and affordable treatments with high standards of quality. Kosmoderma gives personalized consults with skin care and uses facial analyzer and 3D imaging of the skin to analyze and personalize the treatments and skin regimen.

    Contact Kosmoderma for Professional Assessment and Treatment

    At Kosmoderma, experts can guide you on the safest and most effective methods for bikini line grooming. From clinical treatments like laser hair reduction to personalised advice, professional care ensures smooth results with minimal risk. Speak to a dermatologist today to choose the best approach based on your skin type and hair growth pattern.

    FAQs

    1. What is the bikini line?

    The bikini line is the area of hair-bearing skin at the upper and outer edges of the pubic region, near the inner thighs.

  • Swim your way through your Skin & Hair concerns with these swimming tips

    Before Swimming

    Hair Oil: To prevent the greenish tinge in your hair due to copper oxidation by chlorine, invest in a bottle of coconut oil or olive oil. It will hydrate your hair cuticle with a protective layer of moisture that seals them and prevents the chlorine and boric acid from leaving a green tone to your blonde or colored hair.

    Soaking Your Hair: Always have a shower before you enter the pool, it instantly hydrates the topmost layer of your skin. Wet your hair too. This prevents them from soaking up the chemicals present in the water as dry hair is more susceptible to chemical damage.

    Special Lotions: If you have chlorine-sensitive skin that is prone to rashes after swimming, use a chlorine-neutralizing lotion before you take a dip in the pool.

    Massage your skin with a cream for dry and damaged skin. Repeat this after you take shower post swimming.

    While Swimming

    Re-Apply Sunblock: The salt content and chlorine in the beach or pool water is a major factor contributing to your sunburn. The above two factors also contribute to a pigmentation, chapped and flaky skin situation. No, you don’t have to stop swimming. Take a two-minute break from the pool and apply a heavy sunblock every half an hour to protect your skin from sun damage.

    Stay Hydrated: Carry a bottle of water and keep sipping on it. You can also drink non-alcoholic summer coolers to keep yourself cool and hydrated.

    Swimming Cap: Always wear a well-fitting swimming cap. It will prevent your hair and scalp from coming in contact with the chlorinated water.

    Swimming Goggles: Wear swimming goggles to protect your eyes from drying. You can apply cooling eye drops later.

    After Swimming

    Immediately take a shower unfailingly after you come out of the pool. It will help keep your skin & hair clean and chlorine-free.

    Washing Your Body: Use an exfoliating face wash and bath gel. You could also try a scrub every alternate day. Mix salt and brown sugar in olive oil, scrub vigorously. Alternatively, you can also use baking soda for the same.

    Washing Your Hair: Always wash your hair with an EDTA-containing clarifying shampoo to ensure that no chemical residue is left behind in your hair after you come out of the pool. Add apple cider vinegar to the last rinse of your hair. It is a natural remedy to remove product residue in your hair that makes hair look flat. There are brands selling swim care shampoos for kids. You can try one of those too. They are formulated to gently wash out the chlorine from your hair, prevent brittleness and get rid of sticky hair after swimming. If you don’t swim in a pool, you must know that there are several chemicals and industrial wastes dumped into the sea that affect the quality of water at the beach too.

    Conditioning: Do not forget to apply a conditioner. A hair mousse or leave-in conditioner is also a good option if you are pressed for time.

    Moisturize: Finish your bath with a heavy-duty moisturizer and body lotion or oil. Don’t wear tight and synthetic clothing after a swim. Add a few capsules of Vitamin A and E to your night cream.

    Home Remedies

    Home Remedy for Sundamaged Skin:
    Regularly apply cucumber juice to sunburnt skin and leave it overnight. It helps reduce sun damage already done to the skin.

    Home remedy for Dry Hair:
    Frizzy hair is a common problem among swimmers. Use styling products that are silicone-based with a volumizing shampoo. A hot oil treatment every night is also a good option for hair care for swimmers.

    Weekly, apply mayonnaise evenly throughout your hair, covering the ends as well. It provides intense hydration to your hair and will get rid of the problem of ‘swimmer’s hair’.

    Home Remedy for Exfoliation/Moisturisation of Skin:
    Mix honey and yogurt together and leave it on your face for 20 minutes for a cooling and exfoliating face mask. It also moisturizes the skin. You may add oatmeal to this paste.

    Swimming is not only a fun activity but it’s also a great way to keep fit. So, follow these tips and jump into the pool without worrying about your skin & hair damage.

    Kosmoderma Skin, Hair & Lasers Clinics are dedicated to medical excellence in the field of Cosmetic Dermatology with international accreditation and facilities.
    We offer scientifically proven treatments using US FDA approved technology. All our products have undergone extensive research and trials in USA, Europe and India. We pride ourselves in offering safe, effective and affordable treatments with high standards of quality. Kosmoderma gives personalized consults with skin care and uses facial analyzer and 3D imaging of the skin to analyze and personalize the treatments and skin regimen.

  • Get the ‘Moist’ of it.

    Selecting the right moisturizer can be difficult for some. Moisturisers at times can be very greasy & heavy or at times they do not moisturize enough . Finding the perfect moisturiser is a trial & error procedure. The key ingredients that seal in moisture are mineral oil, lanolin, petrolatum and Dimethicone. Glycerin, propylene glycol, proteins, urea, and vitamins help attract water into the outer layer of the skin. Some skin moisturizers also contain an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), which exfoliates dead skin.

    The skin on your face is thinner and more sensitive, so it’s a good idea to use a different moisturizer on your face than you do on your body. Find a moisturizer that is smooth & easy to apply . Always apply facial moisturizer immediately after cleansing your face to still-damp skin. Let it set for several minutes before applying make-up, as this will trap the moisture. Do not rub in the moisturizer, but gently pat it on the skin.

    How to Choose?

    The amount of moisturizers out there can be overwhelming for many. It’s very important to know your skin’s requirement at a given time. Be flexible. Realize that many factors affect your skin, including weather, hormones, medications, and age. So if your moisturizer doesn’t seem to be working, consider trying a different one. In fact, you may use a heavier one for the cold weather months, and a lighter gel one for warmer weather. Do not be fooled by the pricing or packaging, always pay attention to the ingredients .

    What to Choose?

    Understanding what skin type you fall into makes it easier for you to pick the right daily moisturizer. Generally companies label their moisturisers corresponding to the skin type. Look for one that would best suit you skin type.

    • Sensitive skin: Look for fragrance-free and oil-free moisturizers
    • Acne prone Skin: Be careful in choosing a moisturizer when you have acne prone skin. Select moisturizers labeled “non-comedogenic”, which means they won’t clog pores & read up reviews on the product to be sure . However if you suffer from break outs, be sure to change your product immediately.
    • Normal to oily skin : Choose a non-greasy, water-based moisturizer
    • Dry to very dry skin: Try the heavier oil-based products made with mineral oil, glycerin or hyaluronic acid.
    • All Skin Types: Consider using a moisturizer with retinol before bed. Retinol is vitamin A for your skin. It speeds up the cell rejuvenation process. Use it carefully as it may cause a skin irritation, redness or dry skin.
    • It is important to make sure that your daily moisturizer contains Sunscreen that helps protect your skin from harmful UV rays.

    Kosmoderma Skin, Hair & Lasers Clinics are dedicated to medical excellence in the field of Cosmetic Dermatology with international accreditation and facilities.
    We offer scientifically proven treatments using US FDA approved technology. All our products have undergone extensive research and trials in USA, Europe and India. We pride ourselves in offering safe, effective and affordable treatments with high standards of quality. Kosmoderma gives personalized consults with skin care and uses facial analyzer and 3D imaging of the skin to analyze and personalize the treatments and skin regimen.

  • Say “No” to Dark Underarms….

    What’s the problem?
    When it comes to your armpits, it is the melanin that causes the area to become darker either through external assault or internal aggression. What exactly are these aggressions? Before trying any of the underarm skin whitening remedies, treatments or creams, ensure you know the cause of dark under arms. Otherwise, you might be treating a wrong cause where you are likely to fail.

    Here are some common causes that leave you with undesirable under arms.

    Use of alcohol-based Deodorants and Antiperspirants
    Antiperspirants are the most used products against excessive sweating. They work by seeping into pores and plugging sweat ducts. Aluminum compounds and other active antiperspirant ingredients are often dissolved in alcohol because it dries quickly and feels cool when applied. But it may also dry out the skin and cause antiperspirant irritation. Although rare, there could be a likelihood that some ingredients in deodorants and antiperspirants could cause dark skin under armpits. Try switching brands or using a deodorant instead of an antiperspirant.

    Excessive rubbing / Friction
    If the flab on your underarms is constantly rubbing against something, it may result in hyper- keratosis, which is the thickening of the skin which actually provides protection against irritation. With hyper-keratosis comes hyperpigmentation, also known as “discoloration”. Unfortunately, there’s nothing you can do to prevent this due to the anatomy of your underarms. But you can minimize the friction. Avoid wearing rough clothing that can aggravate your underarm skin. Also, try to wear looser clothes that minimize this contact.

    Hormonal changes
    Periodically, your body goes through hormonal changes, like when you get pregnant. This causes your body to increase the production of melanin, leading to blotchiness, uneven skin tone, and skin darkening on the upper lip, neck and yes, your underarms as well. Sometimes the discoloration goes away. But for some, it may stay on even after your pregnancy. See a dermatologist if the problem persists.

    Bacteria
    If you do not clean your under arms properly, they will obviously appear black and dark. Dead skin will build up and microorganisms will thrive in the dark and sweaty conditions of your underarms. This may lead to a chronic infection in the deeper layers of your underarm skin, which then leads to the formation of rough, discolored skin that is red in the first place but slowly changes to become brown. So it’s important to wash your armpits regularly with an anti-bacterial soap. Preferably use a wash with tea tree. Tea tree oil has natural antiseptic properties and is very effective in killing bacteria.

    A medical condition called acanthosis nigricans.
    Dark underarms may also be as a result of a medical condition that is known as acanthosis nigricans, which is often associated with insulin resistance, obesity, hormonal disorders, certain medications, and cancer. Areas affected feel velvety and are a dark gray or brown color. Consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.There are many treatments available at skin clinics like laser and peels that could lighten the pigmentation.

    Shaving / Waxing
    Know how your guy’s stubble looks dark and rough by the evening? Well, the same is happening to your underarm skin if shaving is your preferred method for hair removal. Underarm hair that has been shaved tends to be darker and coarser. Underarm waxing has its own drawbacks. It doesn’t truly get rid of underarm hair, but only reduces it. This means the hair will grow back and as it grows back, you will have to undergo another round of waxing, which can be uncomfortable at times and never ending! Instead of shaving or waxing, consider laser hair removal. These procedures remove hair below the skin’s surface and reduce the visibility of the hair.

    Try Laser Hair Removal
    As the saying goes, prevention is always better than cure, the best way to prevent dark under arms would be Laser Hair Removal as it’s a hair reduction*. Not only can laser hair removal of the armpits erase hair growth, but it also wipes away follicles and stubble that make your underarm dark-coloured and unsightly. So you need not worry about that unwanted stubble and can spread your arms lovingly, anytime!

    Home remedies
    You may try exfoliating your underarm with lemon & sugar scrub or soda bicarbonate with water. You may also try applying potato or cucumber juice for your dark underarms. But if these remedies do not show results, please consult a dermatologist.

    Kosmoderma Skin, Hair & Lasers Clinics are dedicated to medical excellence in the field of Cosmetic Dermatology with international accreditation and facilities.
    We offer scientifically proven treatments using US FDA approved technology. All our products have undergone extensive research and trials in USA, Europe and India. We pride ourselves in offering safe, effective and affordable treatments with high standards of quality. Kosmoderma gives personalized consults with skin care and uses facial analyzer and 3D imaging of the skin to analyze and personalize the treatments and skin regimen.

  • When a Mole Is Worrisome

    What are moles really?

    They are growths on the skin. Can be cancerous or non cancerous. In Indians, most of the time it is non cancerous as our skin is well protected from sun damage.

    Moles can be brown or black in color, can appear at any age, can occur on any site.

    They can change in color, number,shape,size,texture,can also become hairy over a period of time or they can remain the same.

    When to worry?

    1. If there is a sudden increase in size, borders get ragged or irregular
    2. If they become painful or itchy
    3. If they crack, bleed or become darker in color
    4. If they suddenly increase in number and become thicker.
    5. Sudden appearance after the age of 30
    6. Family history of cancerous moles.

    What is melanoma?

    It’s a cancerous mole and is very rare in India.

    What are melanocytic Nevi?

    These are non cancerous moles, usually appear at birth or can be seen at a later age. They usually have a rough surface and mostly hair. They are black in color and increase in size as the baby grows. They are considered as over growth of melanocytes, so basically are hamartomas.

    Nevus of ota.

    These are blue black moles seen on one side of the face. Usually present since birth or can appear in teenage. These are best treated with q switched lasers.Usually you will need around 10-15 sessions to lighten the mole.

    How are moles diagnosed?

    They are very typical in appearance. Most moles cause no problems. But occasionally a mole may be unattractive, annoying, or changing. If you see any signs of change or want a mole removed for cosmetic reasons, consult a dermatologist.

    Treatment options for moles

    There are various methods for removing moles. Some of the common methods used are Radio frequency or Laser Excision. Some dermatologists prefer to shave the mole and then excise. The method depends on the type of mole.

    • Excision biopsy: So far this is the best option as the mole is removed almost completely and also can be sent for histopathology to rule out any untoward changes.
    • Shave biopsy: Can be used to treat superficial moles where the surface is shaved
    • Electrocautery: Electorcautery is a procedure which uses heat to destroy the protein in moles so that it is eliminated from the body as a natural process with minimal scar.
    • Laser excision: Excision is done with a punch, where the whole mole is excised with an instrument. It’s a selective procedure for bigger moles.

    Can you prevent moles?

    Protecting yourself from the sun is the best way to prevent moles. Always use a sunscreen / sunblock. Apply it at least 20 mins before heading outdoors. Wear full sleeves, hats if sun exposure is unavoidable.

    Make sure you have antioxidants in your diet – B- carotene, Flavonoids, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Lycopene. Try to stay out of the sun between 11AM & 3 PM. The UV index is the highest at this time of the day. Ifyour shadow is shorter than you, stay indoors.

    Self examination

    Regular examination of your moles for any changes should be done on top priority. Report to your doctor in case you notice any warning signs. Mole mapping at regular intervals to be done by a dermatologist if any family history of melanoma.

    Kosmoderma Skin, Hair & Lasers Clinics are dedicated to medical excellence in the field of Cosmetic Dermatology with international accreditation and facilities.
    We offer scientifically proven treatments using US FDA approved technology. All our products have undergone extensive research and trials in USA, Europe and India. We pride ourselves in offering safe, effective and affordable treatments with high standards of quality. Kosmoderma gives personalized consults with skin care and uses facial analyzer and 3D imaging of the skin to analyze and personalize the treatments and skin regimen.

  • Are you confused about your skin type?

    The initial quality, or type, of your skin is genetically determined, however, individual skin type may change over a period of time due to factors like climate, diet, medications, hormonal changes, stress, overall lifestyle and of course aging.

    There are five basic skin types – Normal, Dry, Oily, Combination and Sensitive

    Let us understand what is combination skin, how it works and skin care for the same.

    Combination skin is just what the name implies- dry in some parts of the body and oily in other areas. The facial skin tends toward dryness on the cheeks and around the eyes while being oily in the t-zone, that is – nose, forehead and chin. Combination skin can have shiny skin and pores that look larger than normal in the T – zone area. It may also have blackheads and acne over the T-zone and dry, flaky and dull skin on the cheek area.

    Combination skin also means that you may have fine lines and wrinkles and shininess and breakouts at the same time. You may also experience rosacea on your cheeks and large pores on your nose. Of course this combination of characteristics and problems can make combination skin, particularly difficult to deal with. It’s very difficult to understand and treat combination skin by yourself in such cases. It’s best to visit a dermatologist for home care regimen and to treat any concerns that you cannot address at home.

    How to determine your skin type?

    First and foremost, it’s important to determine your skin type. To determine your skin type, press a blotting paper or a clean facial tissue onto the face first thing in the morning.

    In combination skin the tissue will have traces of oil coming from your nose and forehead, but will be clean in the areas that touch the cheeks. Whereas, in normal and dry skin the tissue will be clean and in case of an oily skin, spots of oil will be present in areas of the cheeks, nose and forehead.

    How to care for combination skin?

    Combination Skin may sound a bit tricky, but if one can give it a targeted care it’s very simple to handle it.

    1. Cleanser: Use a gentle cleanser instead of harsh soaps to wash your face. The cleanser should be fragrant and irritant free.
    2. Toner: A mild repairing toner should be used. Avoid using toner on the dry areas.
    3. Sun care: No matter what skin type you are, sunscreen is important to protect the skin from UV radiation induced damage in all seasons and to delay photo ageing.
    4. Moisturize: Apply moisturizers in lotion or cream form to dry areas, avoiding the oily areas. Use a light moisturizer for oily areas.
    5. Exfoliate: To open up the pores and get rid of blackheads from oily area and to remove the dead skin cells from the dry area exfoliation is very important. It also allows moisturizers to penetrate. Use a gentle scrubber to exfoliate your skin at least once a week. Avoid rubbing dry area too much.
    6. Specific treatments: Use anti-acne products over the acne prone areas depending on the severity of acne. If the flakiness or sensitivity is too much on the cheeks, use Aloe Vera or olive oil. You may also use, oil based moisturizer only on cheeks.

    So combination skin is not something that you cannot deal with. If you follow these tips and improve your lifestyle habits, you can easily tackle it. Do exercise regularly, it gets the blood pumping, which delivers key nutrients to your skin. Also, Stress free life and good sleep all add up to good skin as stress can make your skin more reactive. And last but not the least, drink lots of water and eat fresh fruits and vegetables to keep your skin hydrated from inside.

    Kosmoderma Skin, Hair & Lasers Clinics are dedicated to medical excellence in the field of Cosmetic Dermatology with international accreditation and facilities.
    We offer scientifically proven treatments using US FDA approved technology. All our products have undergone extensive research and trials in USA, Europe and India. We pride ourselves in offering safe, effective and affordable treatments with high standards of quality. Kosmoderma gives personalized consults with skin care and uses facial analyzer and 3D imaging of the skin to analyze and personalize the treatments and skin regimen.

  • Skin, Our First Line of Defense Or Skin as an Immune Barrier

    There are many components of the skin that help it in acting as a protective physical and chemical barrier against germs and antigens. The two major components of the skin that play a major role in its defense mechanism could be categorized as below:

    • The Cell or the structural system – The structural formation and components of the skin are made of different types of cells which differ in function and in structure. Their jobs range from forming a covering and fortifying layer like our body’s picket fence – namely the epidermis of the skin, to sentinels which constantly keep watch for invading pathogens and shut them out, to friendly skin cells which help house healthy. Bacteria and organisms known as Commensals play a crucial role in maintaining our health and helping the body fight against more harmful invaders.
    • The Microbial or the living system – These friendly in house guests resting on our skin help keep potential invaders from entering our system and taking control and leading to harmful effects on our skin and our overall health. A fun fact to be noted is that, on different places on our body we have different types of organisms ranging from over 1000 bacterial and fungal species – called commensals – that live on our skin. They differ on various areas of our body depending on oiliness, dampness, and exposure to sunlight. Skin commensals which thrive on your foot differ completely from the commensals on your forearm, which again are different from the ones living on our face.

    These two components of the skin form the immune system of the skin, thus protecting against any injury, infection or parasites. They either neutralize the invasion or set up an alarm in the form of “signals” or “warnings” like a rash to help identify and control any impending attack or existing health condition, thus helping us and our diagnosing physician treat us better.

    How to take care of this important organ?

    Do’s
    • Use mild cleansers so that you don’t strip your skin of its natural moisturizing factor or essential oil content.
    • Moisturize daily to ensure perfect skin health.
    • Use a sunscreen regularly to help block the UV rays helping the skin protect the ongoing essential cell cycles and their turnover.
    • Apply antioxidant based creams
    • Apply prescription based retinoids to promote cell turnover.
    • Eat food rich in antioxidants and minerals.
    • Drink enough water to keep you and your skin hydrated.
    • Exfoliate regularly to get rid of dead skin debris and prevent housing harmful bacteria.
    Dont’s
    • Avoid wearing damp garments as this may promote fungal infections.
    • Avoid abusing and over using anti- bacterials or anti- microbials on skin.
    • Avoid using extremely hot water while bathing.
    • Avoid using harsh soaps
    • Sharing toiletries and clothing.

    Kosmoderma Skin, Hair & Lasers Clinics are dedicated to medical excellence in the field of Cosmetic Dermatology with international accreditation and facilities.
    We offer scientifically proven treatments using US FDA approved technology. All our products have undergone extensive research and trials in USA, Europe and India. We pride ourselves in offering safe, effective and affordable treatments with high standards of quality. Kosmoderma gives personalized consults with skin care and uses facial analyzer and 3D imaging of the skin to analyze and personalize the treatments and skin regimen.