Bed bug bites: How to stop them

A severe bed bug infestation on mattresses and cushions that touch the skin can cause massive skin inflammation. This is not life-threatening but can lead to vigorous scratching, which can lead to scarring. Keeping a healthy skin care regimen is not only about using the right products or eating the right kind food, but it is also about understanding other factors that can affect skin appearance.

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Bed bugs are small wingless insects that feed on blood. Their name is derived from the fact that these bugs prefer nesting in warm tight places in human homes - particularly sofas, bed mattresses, and other soft furnishings. They usually feed on their hosts while they are asleep. Bedbugs usually feed one hour before sunrise as they like the dark. However, they can appear during the daytime if they are extremely hungry.

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The most common sign of an infestation is that one wakes up with a series of bites around the body, especially in exposed areas of the skin. Beds should be checked for bedbugs or bedbug activity. Creases in bed linen or seams should be thoroughly checked. Bedbug eggs will look like small pale seeds. In severe cases, one can find signs of dark brown or reddish fecal spots (bedbug droppings). There will be a coriander-like odor.

Thankfully, bedbug infestations can be prevented. Sheets should be changed regularly, depending on the environment. Dusty, smoky, or generally unclean places command a more thorough inspection and cleaning of linen and furniture. One can also consider encasing both the mattresses and box spring with a cover - much the same way for people with allergies. Take note that these covers also need to be regularly changed.

Keep your skin looking healthy and vibrant with the help of Dr. Kenneth M. Reed. For more information about his practice, like this Facebook page.

Erring On The Side Of Ignorance: Young People Still Use Tanning Beds Despite Skin Cancer Risk

The rising incidence of tanning-induced skin cancers among young women is not due to a lack of awareness—it is because of a lack of conviction or perhaps deliberate ignorance.

In a study by Indiana University conducted among white women in college, it has been found that 70 percent knew that indoor tanning could harm their skin. Almost 80 percent also believed indoor tanning was not safe. Surprisingly, however, 84 percent still feel that tanning makes them more attractive, and they are those likely to use tanning booths.

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The study is alarming especially when researchers at the University of Minnesota have found that women are two to six times more likely to develop melanoma if they had tanned indoors. Moreover, women who had initiated indoor tanning at a younger age showed a higher incidence of melanoma.

Even with the release of more studies that reinforce the possible link between indoor tanning and skin cancer, ironically, women that subject themselves to the unhealthy practice are starting younger. The trend has become worrisome that US authorities and the medical community have proposed to start implementing an age restriction to indoor tanning.

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After graduating from Brown University, Dr. Kenneth M. Reed has been extensively involved in biomedical research and dermatology. Dr. Reed is a fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology and is the founder of DermASAP. Visit this page for more information.

The Truth About Stretch Marks

The skin is an elastic organ and can stretch and contract as needed, but sometimes the tissue gets damaged when stretched too far and too rapidly. The structural damage is within the dermis, which the skin can no longer repair, making the scars permanent. Despite the unscientific claims of some commercial products, stretch marks never disappear entirely and could only improve in appearance.

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Some treatments backed by science include the application of tretinoin, known more by brand names such as Retin-A, Renova, and Avita. These retinoid creams are available only by prescription, work only on new scars, and should not be used by pregnant and nursing women. It works by rebuilding collagen, a protein that promotes elasticity, which can improve the appearance of stretch marks to blend with the skin.

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Similarly, light and laser therapy also stimulates collagen production and is recommended by the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery for fixing stretch marks.

Surgical procedures such as a tummy tuck or other skin tightening treatments can provide the added benefit of eradicating stretch marks when excess skin is removed.

Dr. Kenneth M. Reed is a seasoned medical professional and a member of the New England Dermatology Society and American Society of Dermatological Surgery. He is also the founder of DermASAP, a dermatological center focused on providing urgent skin care to patients. Subscribe to this blog for more updates on dermatology.

Pediatric Skin Disorders And How To Deal With Them

Children, like adults, are prone to skin disorders such as eczema, fungal infections, and acne. Below are a few examples of skin conditions that are common among children.

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i) Ringworm - Also referred to as a tinea infection, ringworm appears, true to its name, ring-shaped and red. It usually manifests in areas like the scalp, groin, and feet, among others, especially when the child is not properly nourished, lives in the tropics or warm weather or has a compromised immune system.

Children with ringworm may be prescribed with anti-fungal medicine (creams and oral medication), bath soap or shampoo.

ii) Warts - These are small, mostly painless bumps on the skin that come from the papillomavirus and can be spread to other parts of the body or other people.

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Warts can disappear without intervention, but in specific cases, they must be treated with salicylic acid or laser surgery, depending on the gravity of the warts.

iii) Atopic dermatitis - A chronic skin condition that leaves the skin red and itchy. Some people with atopic dermatitis will have asthma attacks or hay fever whenever they have flare-ups.

Atopic dermatitis is a life-long condition, but outbreaks can be prevented or controlled by carefully choosing gentle soaps and shampoos, and applying medicated ointments or lotions. Dry skin is also prone to atopic dermatitis, so moisturizers are recommended for those with atopic dermatitis.

Keep in mind that children cannot always undergo the same dermatological treatment protocols as adults, so it's best to consult with a pediatric dermatologist who is better equipped to treat children's skin problems.

Dr. Kenneth M. Reed founded DermAsap to provide immediate care to patients of all ages suffering acute skin problems. Follow this Facebook page for more information about dermatology and skin conditions.

Achieve Post-Baby Body Goals With The Mommy Makeover

Childbirth can be joyous for mothers, but they sometimes rue the changes it brought to their bodies. It can cause deflated breasts and sagging skin. While a lot of moms struggle to bring their bodies back by doing endless, unreasonable diet plans and exercise, many of them just accept the fact that their bodies will never be the same. 

Thanks to science, the “Mommy Makeover” is on the rise. The treatment package includes tummy tuck, breast lift and augmentation, and more.

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Even if the treatment package is targeted to a motherly audience, it’s not just the mothers who do the mommy makeover. A lot of women in their 30’s and 40’s, regardless if they have given birth or not, are going for the treatment package. 

Mothers are recommended to wait six months to a year after giving birth before they can undergo the mommy makeover. Those who want to shed weight should also do their diet and exercise prior to the procedure so they can observe best results. 

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Dr. Kenneth M. Reed founded DermASAP after seeing the need for patients to seek dermatological help on the dot. The clinic provides skin care treatments and cosmetic surgery procedures for qualified patients. Learn more about the company’s services by visiting its official website.

Bright Eyes: Exploring the Advantages of Blepharoplasty

Blepharoplasty, or eyelid surgery, is a surgical procedure that aims to repair sagging skin around the eyes, which includes eliminating excess skin.

Undergoing this procedure enhances the appearance of the eyelids and can give the patient a more youthful look. Aside from having a rejuvenated appearance by eliminating bags under the eyes, lines, and wrinkles on the lower eyelids and treating saggy skin around the eyes, another benefit of blepharoplasty is improved vision. The loose or excess skin around the eyes can reduce a person's field of vision. Through the procedure, peripheral vision, as well as the upper and outer parts of vision, can be enhanced.

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Patients should make sure to consult a plastic surgeon and an ophthalmologist before undergoing the procedure. Eyelid surgery is usually less than two hours. After the procedure, patients may temporarily feel pain, experience redness around the eyes, and have puffy eyelids. Patients will be advised to refrain from rubbing the eyes, avoid swimming and other strenuous activities, and limit sun exposure.

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A graduate of Harvard Medical School Dermatology Residency program, Dr. Kenneth M. Reed is the founder of DermASAP. His 25 years of experience and expertise in the field led him to be the co-founder of companies such as Early Cell and Prescient Pharma. He is also a board-certified medical doctor and a Fellow of the American Society of Dermatological Surgery. For articles on dermatology, subscribe to this blog.

White Skin Patches: What Patients Need to Know about Vitiligo

Vitiligo is a skin disorder in which white patches of skin appear on certain parts of the body. It occurs because skin cells called melanocytes that make pigment are destroyed. Not only is vitiligo a skin concern, but it can affect the eye and mucous membranes as well.

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There is no one cause of vitiligo, but a lot of medical professionals assume that it is an autoimmune disease. Autoimmune diseases happen when the immune system attacks some parts that are not a threat to the whole body. It is also believed that the disorder can be genetically transmitted.

A lot of patients develop vitiligo in their twenties, but it can occur in different ages. It equally affects people of different races and sexes, but it is more noticeable in people with darker skin tone.

The main sign of vitiligo are the white skin patches. It can be on the face, lips, arms, or feet. People with vitiligo also grow grey hair earlier than others.

Patients who have vitiligo may feel self-conscious about their appearance. Fortunately, several treatments can help reduce the visibility of vitiligo.

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Dr. Kenneth M. Reed is a board-certified dermatologist with years of experience in the medical field. He is the founder of DermASAP, a clinic that provides quality skin care solutions for patients who have vitiligo and other related disorders. Learn more about Dr. Reed and DermASAP by visiting this website.