Archive for year: 2017
Presenting the 2017 Allergen of the Year…
The award for 2017 “Allergen of the Year” goes to alkyl glucosides, which are mild surfactants derived from natural sources such as coconut, palm or rapeseed oil, with glucose supplied by corn, wheat starch, or potatoes. Alkyl gluocosides can be found in many skin care products, including shampoos and conditions, shower gels, sunscreen and moisturizers.
In a study of alkyl glucoside allergy, researchers at McGill identified that the average patient with this allergy is a female age 48 years, and the rash occurs commonly on the head and the hands. In an article in Dermatology News magazine (4/2017), Dr. Belsito of Columbia University was quoted as saying, “The allergen of the year is really chosen to educate dermatologists……it doesn’t mean they are these horrible substances that are damaging the world necessarily.”
The only way to diagnose skin allergic rashes (also known as Allergic Contact Dermatitis) is through Patch Testing. Patch Testing is an office procedure where a series of stickers containing various chemicals, are placed on your back for 48 hours straight. After that time, the doctor removes the stickers and looks at the skin for signs of allergy: redness, bumps, swelling.
For more info about Patch Testing, please call the office at (212) 249-8118.
Stratacell for Radiated Skin
At the recent American Society For Laser Medicine & Surgery meeting a hot topic was trying to decrease sensitivity in the skin from radiation treatments. In addition to Photobiomodulation ( LED specific treatment), a new topical called Strataderm can be used.
Strataderm is semi-occlusive film forming wound dressing that allows the skin to breathe and remain hydrated. Strataderm forms a durable, flexible and waterproof sheet. It does not penetrate into the epidermis or dermis. Strataderm restores the barrier function of the stratum corneum and reduces Trans-Epidermal Water Loss. The protected environment helps to normalize the level of collagen production while patients are healing from their radiation treatments.
It’s good to apply after and in between treatments. As always- check with your radiation oncologist.
Welcoming the Spring
Even though Spring is here, temperatures are still fluctuating and it’s cold outside. Check out this article about weather changes. Since you will be spending more time outdoors, just a friendly reminder to use sun protection.
Dr. Madfes on “Behind the Scenes” with James Earl Jones
Dr. Madfes was featured on “Behind the Scenes” with James Earl Jones! Check out the video below:
Getting through the winter with rosacea
The cold weather outside is not your friend, if you are one of the 16 million Americans with rosacea. Cold and gusty winds trigger rosacea flares, leading to red chapped cheeks, sensitive facial skin, and even bumps. On the other hand, those seeking shelter indoors also face equally troubling circumstances, as oveheated rooms and dry air can also prompt flares. Here are some tips for getting through the winter months with rosacea:
- Avoid wind by wearing a scarf or ski mask to cover your face.
- Avoid extremes of temperature by dressing in layers.
- Moisturize. When facial skin gets dry, rosacea sets it. Never underestimate the importance of proper moisturizing. Looks for products with glycerin, ceramides, and hyaluronic acid.
- Don’t forget that the sun is a major rosacea trigger! Wear a broad spectrum sunscreen year round. We like Skinmedica Total Defense and Repair and EltaMD Facial UV 46.
All Natural Hair Loss Treatment
We are pleased to offer PRP Injections for Hair Loss. PRP is a perfect, all natural procedure for anyone looking for thicker, healthier hair.
PRP stands for platelet-rich plasma. Platelets are the cells that help you stop bleeding when you scrape or cut yourself, but they are also rich in many growth factors, including: platelet-derived growth factor, transforming growth factor, and vascular endothelial growth factor.
Since platelets release many important factors, they have been used to treat joint problems, and now hair loss as well. PRP has been shown to benefit patients with a variety of hair loss sub-types, including androgenic alopecia (also known as “male” or “female” pattern hair loss).
The best part about PRP is that it is all-natural, as it comes from your own blood.
PRP promotes hair growth via 2 pathways:
- encouraging new blood vessels (angiogenesis)
- encouraging hair follicles to enter and extend the duration of the anagen phase (the growth phase)
Studies show that PRP injections may even be as effective, if not more effective, than Rogaine (minoxidil 5%) at stimulating hair regrowth, in certain types of hair loss (El Taieb et al, 2016).
After we draw blood into a tube, it is spun in a centrifuge machine, and the platelets can be removed.
after drawing your blood, the sample if spun in a centrifuge machine, causing the platelets to collect at the top (yellow) and rest of blood to sink to the bottom (red)
In our office we follow a protocol that consists of 4 monthly visits, and then maintenance.
Because it is all natural, there are no concerns about side effects with PRP. Just make sure to stop any vitamins, fish oil, or pain relievers 1 week before, as they can cause bruising.
To schedule your PRP treatment, call (212) 249-8118.