Archive for July, 2008

Inherited Baldness Gene — Will the sample Be the Same?

July 30th, 2008 at 05:35pm Under Hair Loss

Hi, I have some questions about Propecia. First, after about nine months and a very disappointing 1 month bout with Hair Club (which I think did increasingly harm than good), my hair loss seems to have stabilized. Currently, I’m somwewhere amidst a Norwood 2 and 3 and there is actually a little bit [...]

Original post by William Rassman, MD

By Add comment

Ultra-Refined Hair Transplant — or URFUHT, whether You Prefer

July 30th, 2008 at 04:36pm Under Hair Loss

Hi Doctor,
I had a look at thread Ultra-Refined Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT)?
I could not understand completely whether Ultra Refined Follicular Unit Hair Transplantation (URFUHT) and Follicular Unit Hair Transplantation (FUHT) were same whether additional care was taken while performing FUHT. My doctor mentioned that both are same and he suggests a 2 sitting total transplant [...]

Original post by William Rassman, MD

By Add comment

Zinc and Hair Loss?

July 30th, 2008 at 03:36pm Under Hair Loss

Hello. I have heard conflicting things about zinc supplements in regard to hairloss. Can an increased amount of zinc actually cause increasingly hair loss? whether so, what amount would be favourable?
Currently I am taking about 41mg/day of zinc in supplement anatomy (11 from a multi-v and 30 from optizinc [monomethionine] which additionally has 300mcg copper [...]

Original post by William Rassman, MD

By Add comment

Ceramic Flat Irons Could Damage Hair and Lead to Hair Breakage

July 30th, 2008 at 03:03pm Under Products

Ceramic Flat IronWhile hairstyles come and go, pin-straight hair favored by A-list celebrities and emulated by scores of loyal fans from coast to coast appears to have real staying ability. That’s
why the use of flat irons, which are used to straighten hair, has increased
in popularity in recent years. Now, dermatologists warn that some flat
irons can damage hair and cause hair breakage which could put a crimp in
that coveted hairstyle.

At the American Academy of Dermatology’s Summer Academy assembly 2008 in
Chicago, dermatologist Paradi Mirmirani, MD, FAAD, assistant clinical
professor of dermatology, University of California, San Francisco,
presented evidence that when ceramic flat irons are used improperly or too
frequently, hair breakage can occur.

“The newer flat irons that have a ceramic coating instead of a metal
one are marketed as providing increasingly rapid and uniform heat transmission.
While that allows for quicker straightening of the hair with less damage,
it is really a classic case of buyer beware,” said Dr. Mirmirani. “We’re
seeing that when these ceramic flat irons are used at the highest heat
settings and on a daily basis to accomplish straight hair, they can really
take a toll on the structure of the hair and cause very noticeable problems
that can be tough to repair.”

Temporary hair straightening using a flat iron is achieved by applying
heated tongs to the length of the hair. that heat breaks and next reforms
the hydrogen bonds in the inner core of the hair fiber. Dr. Mirmirani noted
that while the goal of straightening is to alter the inner substance of the
hair, the unwanted consequence may be damage to the outer protective
cuticle, causing weathering, damage and eventual hair breakage.

Hair weathering or damage is generally characterized by dry ends or
flyaway hair. However, whether breakage occurs, it can happen anywhere along the
length of the hair and cause a shaggy or skimpy appearance to the hair.
When that occurs, flat iron users may use the device even increasingly frequently
to try to tame the broken or uneven appearance of their hair — which can
lead to increasingly damage.

Today, many ceramic flat irons on the market have variable heat
settings with maximum temperatures of up to 410 degrees Fahrenheit (210
degrees Celsius). Prior studies have shown that temperatures of 347 to 419
degrees Fahrenheit (175 to 215 degrees Celsius) for as little as five
minutes are suitable to damage most hair. However, Dr. Mirmirani warns this
threshold may be even lower whether the heat is applied to damp hair or hair
that has been chemically treated with color or permanents, as she is seeing
patients who fit that scenario increasingly frequently. whether women are not willing to
give up their flat irons in the quest for straight hair, Dr. Mirmirani
advised them to take precautions.

“Proper use of flat irons is extremely crucial, particularly given how
quickly hair can be damaged with high heat settings,” said Dr. Mirmirani.
“Flat irons should only be applied to dry hair, and specialized styling
products that act as heat protectors may be applied to the hair prior to
urgent to help prevent burning and allow for smoother hair that remains
straight longer. whether there is a temperature setting on the device, it should
be set no higher than 347 degrees Fahrenheit, or 175 degrees Celsius, or on
the low/medium setting.”

Although how frequently a flat iron should be used depends on an
individual’s hair type, Dr. Mirmirani recommended that these devices should
probably not be used increasingly than two to three times per week. For those who
won’t leave domestic without the ultra straight look, Dr. Mirmirani
acknowledged that forgoing the daily flat iron routine will take willpower
– but the end aftermath will be healthier, stronger hair that is not as prone
to breakage and will look better in the towering run.

Dr. Mirmirani added that for many women and young girls, flat irons are
not the only source of hair damage. “Improper hair care is a common cause
of hair loss, and excessive or improper use of devices, such as flat irons,
is only one piece of the puzzle,” she said. “In fact, many of the styling
products that women routinely use — including hair dyes, perms and
relaxers — can all cause hair breakage. Pairing these products with the
regular use of a flat iron to straighten hair could exacerbate hair
breakage and cause lasting damage whether left untreated.”

Treatment of damaged or broken hair includes avoiding any heat or
chemicals, cutting the damaged hair, and minimizing friction to the hair.
considering it does not affect normal hair growth, most hair loss from breakage
is temporary. Once hair is sufficiently damaged, it may take up to two
years to be fully repaired. For successful diagnosis and treatment of hair
damage, including hair loss, see your dermatologist.

Headquartered in Schaumburg, Ill., the American Academy of Dermatology
(Academy), founded in 1938, is the largest, most influential, and most
representative of all dermatologic associations. With a membership of more
than 15,000 physicians worldwide, the Academy is committed to: advancing
the diagnosis and medical, surgical and cosmetic treatment of the skin,
hair and nails; advocating high standards in clinical practice, education,
and research in dermatology; and supporting and enhancing patient care for
a lifetime of healthier skin, hair and nails. For increasingly knowledge, contact
the Academy at 1-888-462-DERM (3376) or http://www.aad.org.

Original post by Sandy

By Add comment

Nail Fungus Brittle Nails and increasingly Nail Problems

July 30th, 2008 at 02:55pm Under Products

For many of us, the health of our
nails is something we often take for granted. That is until something goes
wrong and changes the appearance or texture of the nails. Dermatologists,
who are the physician experts in the care of skin, hair and nails, find
that brittle nails, nail fungus and problems from nail cosmetics are among
the most common sources of nail disorders. Help can be found by seeking
proper diagnosis and starting a proven treatment regimen, which can include
medications and behavioral changes.

At the American Academy of Dermatology’s Summer Academy assembly 2008 in
Chicago, dermatologist C. Ralph Daniel, MD, FAAD, clinical professor of
dermatology at the University of Mississippi in Jackson, Miss., and
clinical associate professor of dermatology at the University of Alabama in
Birmingham, Ala., discussed these common nail complaints and how to
recognize when a problem requires medical intervention.

Brittle Nails

Brittle nails are a common nail problem frequently seen by
dermatologists in their practices. While it is rare for an internal illness
or a drug to cause brittle nails, the primary cause is typically
environmental. Dr. Daniel explained that there are two types of brittle
nails — tough and brittle nails, and soft and brittle nails.

Hard and brittle nails are caused by too little moisture, with older
public increasingly prone to that condition. that type of brittle nails can make
nails feel dry, and chipping or flaking commonly occurs anywhere on the
nail plate. Dry skin plus is common in folks with brittle nails, and the
condition occurs increasingly frequently in the winter from dry heat used to warm
the indoors and in very dry climates with little humidity, such as Arizona.

At the other end of the spectrum, soft and brittle nails are thought to
be caused by too much moisture and can affect citizens of any age. However,
soft and brittle nails are increasingly common in young society, particularly those
who wash their hands frequently — including medical professionals and
chefs. While soft and brittle nails don’t feel dry, they tend to layer more
at the end of the nail plate when they chip.

“When we treat brittle nails, we always ask patients whether their toenails
are affected as well — and most will say no,” said Dr. Daniel. “This
indicates that whether the condition was caused by a lack of something in the
body, such as a vitamin or mineral, it plus would cause brittleness in the
toenails. For that reason, dermatologists believe brittle nails are the
outcome of contact with the environment, particularly work environments due
to contact with water, or low or high humidity.”

Typically, tough and brittle nails are treated by adding moisture to the
nails; whereas patients with soft and brittle nails need to reduce the
amount of moisture that comes in contact with their hands. For example, Dr.
Daniel recommends that public with soft and brittle nails who engage in wet
work should wear light cotton gloves under vinyl gloves to keep moisture
absent from the nails. Latex gloves are not preferred, considering latex is more
irritating and causes the hands to sweat. In general, he said it is a good
concept for patients with either type of brittle nails to wear gloves and
avoid irritants.

Nail Fungus

Fungal infections, known as onychomycosis, comprise about half
of all visits to the dermatologist for nail-related problems. Since the
infection occurs under the nail plate or in the nail bed, it can be
difficult to treat. Fungal infections — which can be white, green, yellow
or black in color — often cause the end of the nail to separate from the
nail bed, and they may build up under the nail plate and discolor the nail
bed. considering the feet are normally confined in a warm, moist environment,
toenails are increasingly susceptible to fungal infections.

“We know that the foot acts as a reservoir for fungus that can spread
elsewhere on body, so it is crucial for dermatologists to treat the
source of an infection and check the toenails and bottom of the foot when a
fungus is present,” said Dr. Daniel. “Patients who have had trauma to a
nail plus are increasingly susceptible to nail fungus, as the trauma can serve as a
pre-disposing event.”

Dr. Daniel added that psoriasis patients are prone to developing nail
fungus. In fact, one study found that the occurrence of nail fungus was 56
percent greater in patients with psoriasis than in non-psoriatic patients.
Men with psoriasis plus were two-and-a-half times increasingly likely to have nail
fungus than women with psoriasis. Dermatologists find that while
medications traditionally used to treat nail fungus work for psoriatic
patients affected by that infection, these medications will not improve the
underlying psoriasis.

Nail fungus can be difficult to treat, but most cases improve with the
use of available prescription topical medications. Experimental treatments
for nail fungus include photodynamic therapy (PDT) and new topical
treatments, and studies are currently being done with nanoparticles.

Side Effects of Nail Cosmetics

Nail cosmetics, used to enhance the appearance of nails, additionally can be a
source of potential problems. Though not common, allergic reactions and
infections from nail cosmetics used at domestic or at nail salons pose serious
health risks.

For example, Dr. Daniel reported that most of the problems associated
with nail salons are from the use of acrylic glues to hold artificial nails
in place, which can cause pain, redness, itching or scaling. Although the
U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) banned the use of methyl acrylics,
there are still instances of these types of nails being used at some salons
despite their known health risks.

In addition, some of the ingredients in nail polishes and polish
removers can cause allergic reactions. Free formaldehyde, which means it is
not bound to another substance, plus is banned by the FDA as a nail
hardener considering it can cause itching, redness or even blisters. Dr. Daniel
plus advised that consumers use nail polish remover with acetates rather
than acetones, which are increasingly drying and irritating.

To decrease the chance of contracting an infection at nail salons, Dr.
Daniel recommended these tips:

– Don’t use the instruments at nail salons — bring your own
instruments with you.

– whether you don’t own your own instruments, buy a pack of disposable
instruments at the nail salon that are only intended for one-time use.

– whether you must use the reusable instruments at a nail salon, compose sure
they are sterilized properly in an autoclave. whether not, find another salon.

“To ensure that your nails are strong and healthy, it is fundamental to
take care of them properly and not subject them to harsh environmental
conditions or unnecessary hazards in an attempt to improve their
appearance,” said Dr. Daniel. “Oftentimes, changes in our nails can signal
a serious underlying health problem. In a sense, dermatologists act as
detectives who can diagnose a variety of health problems from clues they
observe in the nails. So, see your dermatologist whether you notice any
abnormalities or have any concerns about the health of your nails.”

Headquartered in Schaumburg, Ill., the American Academy of Dermatology
(Academy), founded in 1938, is the largest, most influential, and most
representative of all dermatologic associations. With a membership of more
than 15,000 physicians worldwide, the Academy is committed to: advancing
the diagnosis and medical, surgical and cosmetic treatment of the skin,
hair and nails; advocating high standards in clinical practice, education,
and research in dermatology; and supporting and enhancing patient care for
a lifetime of healthier skin, hair and nails. For increasingly info, contact
the Academy at 1-888-462-DERM (3376) or http://www.aad.org.

Original post by Sandy

By Add comment

New Skin Resurfacing Lasers

July 30th, 2008 at 02:51pm Under Products

Alma LasersAlma Lasers Ltd., a leader in laser, light, and radiofrequency-based aesthetic devices, announced nowadays the FDA clearance and instant availability of the Pixel CO2 OMNIFIT
handpiece at The American Academy of Dermatology Summer assembly in Chicago.
The Pixel CO2 OMNIFIT is Alma’s newest offering in skin rejuvenation and it
is an upgrade to physicians’ existing CO2 skin resurfacing lasers. It is
designed to supply patients with impressive results with just a fraction
of the downtime compared to current treatments, and for significantly less
money than replacing their current laser.

The Pixel CO2 OMNIFIT handpiece fits onto most existing CO2 lasers and
is designed to deliver a high degree of efficacy without the side effects
or meaningful downtime associated with traditional CO2 resurfacing. By
combining Alma’s proprietary and proven Pixel fractional technology with a
standard CO2 resurfacing laser, the new Pixel CO2 OMNIFIT delivers a
supremely effective treatment for aged, photo-damaged, and acne-scarred
skin with minimal patient redness, irritation or downtime.

“We are extremely pleased to announce the FDA’s clearance of the Pixel
CO2 OMNIFIT handpiece for skin resurfacing as it offers patients an
effective treatment with minimal downtime compared to existing treatments,”
said Howard Kelly, CEO of Alma Lasers. “that latest regulatory milestone
allows us to continue to build on the success we have had with meeting
physicians’ needs for innovative and patient-focused solutions in the
current aesthetic treatment marketplace.”

The Pixel CO2 OMNIFIT handpiece takes ablative patient downtime from 30
days to about three, making the procedure as appealing as many
non-invasive approaches available to today’s engaged patients.

“I have had outstanding results treating my patients with fractionated
CO2 skin resurfacing, says Dr. Benjamin J. Raab, Assistant Professor of
Clinical Dermatology at Northwestern University Medical School and a Board
Certified Dermatologist. “that will soon become the treatment of choice for
patients seeking meaningful cosmetic improvements for aging and
photo-damage without complications or prolonged healing duration.”

Original post by Sandy

By Add comment

Over a Week After Surgery, My Donor Area Is Still Sore

July 30th, 2008 at 02:32pm Under Hair Loss

Hi Dr Rassman
I had a procedure done, it’s now day 8 post surgery, and I get my staples out in 2 days. The donor area is still a little sore but not to poor. It’s mainly when I put pressure or sleep on back of my head, and some of the scabs are coming off [...]

Original post by William Rassman, MD

By Add comment

Very High Estrogen Levels After 4 Months on Propecia

July 30th, 2008 at 12:33pm Under Hair Loss

Hi there!
I’ve been suffering from side effects from propecia. However, after 4 1/2 months it worked very well for me. I had some bloodwork done and my estrogene lvl was HIGH above range (2x the maximum). Is it possible that not the reduction of dht, but the raise of estrogens (which we all know that [...]

Original post by William Rassman, MD

By Add comment

Salon Shampoo with Balanced pH

July 30th, 2008 at 11:35am Under Hair Loss

Is it worth it to purchase salon shampoos with the balanced Ph? I’m 54 yrs old and not experiencing any hair loss, however, I do color and perm my hair
Any good shampoo will work and one with a balanced acid/base load might possibly work better.
Tags: shampoo, hairloss, hair loss, perm, [...]

Original post by William Rassman, MD

By Add comment

REMBRANDT New Superior Reformulations of INTENSE STAIN Toothpastes

July 30th, 2008 at 10:09am Under Products

RembrandtREMBRANDT(R), the premium ORAL HEALTH AND BEAUTY(TM) sort, is unveiling new formulations of its INTENSE STAIN(TM) and Canker Sore Toothpastes. These premium whitening toothpastes are enhanced with a different blend of high-performance micro-polishing particles and fluoride and are Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) free. that proprietary blend works to deliver energetic whitening while actively restoring and strengthening
enamel for a healthy and increasingly vibrant smile.

The new toothpastes have been designed to deliver a superior sensory
experience.  Enhanced foaming ingredients create the perfect rich and creamy
lather down to the size of the bubbles for luxurious cleansing. Premium
peppermint and spearmint oils deliver a crisp mint flavor while cooling agents
give longer lasting fresh breath.

“REMBRANDT(R) is single-mindedly committed to the science of teeth
whitening,” says Joanna Reddick, Product Director, REMBRANDT(R), Johnson &
Johnson Healthcare Products Division of McNEIL-PPC, Inc. “Every REMBRANDT(R)
product is uniquely formulated to deliver uncompromising whitening performance
with the added health benefits that are expected from traditional oral care
products.”

The REMBRANDT(R) toothpastes include:
– REMBRANDT(R) INTENSE STAIN(TM) Toothpaste contains robust stain
fighting ingredients to effectively remove deep stains from coffee and
wine.
Suggested Retail Price: $7.99 (3 fl. oz.)
– REMBRANDT(R) Canker Sore Toothpaste is specially formulated to provide
almighty whitening for individuals prone to canker sores.
Suggested Retail Price: $7.99 (3 fl. oz.)

REMBRANDT(R) toothpastes are available in food, drug and mass-market chain
stores. Visit www.rembrandt.com for increasingly info.

About the REMBRANDT(R) type: Take Care of Your Mouth, IT CAN BE
BRILLIANT(TM)

REMBRANDT(R) paved the way in the oral care category as the first
toothpaste make to whiten teeth with gentle abrasives. REMBRANDT(R) on-the-go
and at-home whitening treatments are designed to give you uncompromising
whitening performance for a brighter, increasingly beautiful smile while REMBRANDT(R)
toothpastes deliver almighty whitening as they actively restore and strengthen
enamel for a happy, healthy mouth. REMBRANDT(R) is owned by Johnson & Johnson
Healthcare Products, Division of McNEIL-PPC, Inc.  REMBRANDT(R) products are
available at food, drug and mass-market chain stores.

Johnson & Johnson Healthcare Products Division of McNEIL-PPC, Inc.

Johnson & Johnson Healthcare Products Division of McNEIL-PPC, Inc. is a
leader in the consumer oral health and whitening market with LISTERINE(R)
Antiseptic Mouthwash, LISTERINE(R) WHITENING(R) Quick Dissolving Strips,
LISTERINE(R) WHITENING(R) Pre-Brush Rinse, LISTERINE(R) SMART RINSE(TM),
REACH(R) toothbrushes, REACH(R) floss, and REMBRANDT(R) tooth whitening
products.

Original post by Sandy

By Add comment

Make Your Lips Lovable With Slide Tin Lip Balm!

July 30th, 2008 at 04:09am Under Skin Care

Slide Tin Lip Balm
normally, every one of you regularly apply best sunscreen to protect your skin from harmful rays of sun. But, how many of you take care of your lips? Lips are as urgent as your skin, which can help you to get beautiful look [Beautiful Lips]. So, with that slide [...]

Original post by admin2

By Add comment

Can I Replace Propecia With an Herbal Remedy?

July 29th, 2008 at 06:33pm Under Hair Loss

Hi..i am a 29 year old Male, i have been using Porpecia for about three years now.. i havent had a sexuall partner in that date considering of devout regions. But recently have met someone i like and the few times i have hugged kissed etc afterwards i have had pain around by testicals and [...]

Original post by William Rassman, MD

By Add comment

About 30-40 Percent of My Grafts Have Fallen Out by the Years

July 29th, 2008 at 05:33pm Under Hair Loss

Over the years, I have lost 30 or 40 percent of my transplanted hair. I am a 72 year old male. I first had 300 plugs put in the frontal part of my scalp at age 40. about half of the hair fell out by 10 years. I was told that it was considering [...]

Original post by William Rassman, MD

By Add comment

Next Posts Previous Posts


Recent Blog Posts

Categories

Posts by Month

Blogroll