It's the Itch,
Not the Rash…
Not the Rash…
…that is ultimately most bothersome with eczema. The majority of cases start off with a dry skin condition. In
When I was a young girl growing up in Montana, my skin would get so dry in the winter it would some-
times even bleed. I suffered with cracked and peeling skin and
times even bleed. I suffered with cracked and peeling skin and
The pH of the Skin
Our skin is the largest organ of the body charged with the task of protecting what it holds "inside" from the outside environment, helps regulate body temperature, eliminates byproducts of metabolism by sweating and lubricates itself with sebum from oil producing pores. A combination of oil and sweat from the skin produces a slightly acidic pH of about 5.5. This "acid mantle" is the body's first line of defense against invading bacteria because it provides a hostile environment for outside bacteria to propagate and helps keep the growth of normal body bacteria (p. acnes) under control.
The pH of normal, healthy skin is between 4.5 to 6. This varies with age and with the individual. A baby is born with a neutral pH of 7 but it soon turns acidic to protect them. At puberty, we produce hormones, develop more hair growth on the skin and sebaceous pores become more active. By the late teen and early 20's, our 'acid mantle' is well developed, providing protection against external invaders. Our skin looks great, repairs itself quickly when injured, taking care of itself and us. As we age, hormones dissipate, skin becomes more neutral and more susceptible to bacterial growth and thus more infections.
The acidity of the skin is further compromised by internal diseases (such as diabetes) and some skin diseases (eczema), allowing the pH to rise past 6. We further compromise the effectiveness of our 'acid mantle' by things we do and the products we put on our skin. Water is pH neutral at 7. Soap is alkaline at pH 9. Constant bathing, use of soaps and exposure to chemicals at work can severely alter the acidity of the skin, making it less effective as a protective armor and setting us up for bacterial infection. In this day of the "super bug" it is critical for us to be aware of how our behavior and activities compromise our body's natural defenses.
What can we do to allow our skin to do its job? While water is the very best moisturizer, it leaves us feeling dry after immersion because it removes lubricants from skin and is often used with alkaline soaps, severely altering the skin's acidity. When we are young, our bodies correct this imbalance quickly, but as we age, it takes much longer for the skin to replace its lubricating oils and adjust its pH. To counter this effect, reduce the amount, duration and heat of bathing, use mild, super-fatted soaps (Dove, Tone, Caress, ProKera Botanical Body Bars). Avoid deodorant soaps. Moisturize after every washing to replenish lubricating oils on the skin. When purchasing skin care products, look for labels indicating that they are pH balanced "for the skin" (that's lower than "pH balanced" at 7). If you're not sure about the pH of the products you are using, call the company.
Reduce exposure to swimming pools and spas which use harsh chemicals for safety. Shower thoroughly and moisturize after each immersion. Be aware of work related exposure that affects your skin such as contact with wood, cement, abrasives, chemicals, paper, fabric, dirt & dust, insulation, water, extreme temperatures, low humidity, wind, etc. Do what you can to reduce exposure such as wearing gloves or other garments, adjusting technique or using tools to eliminate direct contact. See the Extreme Dry Skin Care Regime
The pH of normal, healthy skin is between 4.5 to 6. This varies with age and with the individual. A baby is born with a neutral pH of 7 but it soon turns acidic to protect them. At puberty, we produce hormones, develop more hair growth on the skin and sebaceous pores become more active. By the late teen and early 20's, our 'acid mantle' is well developed, providing protection against external invaders. Our skin looks great, repairs itself quickly when injured, taking care of itself and us. As we age, hormones dissipate, skin becomes more neutral and more susceptible to bacterial growth and thus more infections.
The acidity of the skin is further compromised by internal diseases (such as diabetes) and some skin diseases (eczema), allowing the pH to rise past 6. We further compromise the effectiveness of our 'acid mantle' by things we do and the products we put on our skin. Water is pH neutral at 7. Soap is alkaline at pH 9. Constant bathing, use of soaps and exposure to chemicals at work can severely alter the acidity of the skin, making it less effective as a protective armor and setting us up for bacterial infection. In this day of the "super bug" it is critical for us to be aware of how our behavior and activities compromise our body's natural defenses.
What can we do to allow our skin to do its job? While water is the very best moisturizer, it leaves us feeling dry after immersion because it removes lubricants from skin and is often used with alkaline soaps, severely altering the skin's acidity. When we are young, our bodies correct this imbalance quickly, but as we age, it takes much longer for the skin to replace its lubricating oils and adjust its pH. To counter this effect, reduce the amount, duration and heat of bathing, use mild, super-fatted soaps (Dove, Tone, Caress, ProKera Botanical Body Bars). Avoid deodorant soaps. Moisturize after every washing to replenish lubricating oils on the skin. When purchasing skin care products, look for labels indicating that they are pH balanced "for the skin" (that's lower than "pH balanced" at 7). If you're not sure about the pH of the products you are using, call the company.
Reduce exposure to swimming pools and spas which use harsh chemicals for safety. Shower thoroughly and moisturize after each immersion. Be aware of work related exposure that affects your skin such as contact with wood, cement, abrasives, chemicals, paper, fabric, dirt & dust, insulation, water, extreme temperatures, low humidity, wind, etc. Do what you can to reduce exposure such as wearing gloves or other garments, adjusting technique or using tools to eliminate direct contact. See the Extreme Dry Skin Care Regime
How ProKera Affects pH
At pH 3.5, ProKera helps maintain the skin's acid mantle by counteracting the effects of water and alkaline soaps. Each time you apply ProKera, you reduce the pH of your skin closer to its natural, ideal level.
Most common bacteria (E coli, salmonella, staph aureus) flourish at pH 7 and, depending on other mitigating factors such as temperature and moisture, propagation can range from pH 4.5 to 9. Lab tests have shown that bacteria colony numbers injected in ProKera decrease over time. Application of ProKera (with a pH of 3.5) lowers the pH of the skin to create a hostile environment for bacteria to propagate. ProKera can be an effective deterrent to bacterial growth on the skin surface and be especially helpful for people who are susceptible to the drying effects of alcohol-based anti-bacterial aids/soaps
Most common bacteria (E coli, salmonella, staph aureus) flourish at pH 7 and, depending on other mitigating factors such as temperature and moisture, propagation can range from pH 4.5 to 9. Lab tests have shown that bacteria colony numbers injected in ProKera decrease over time. Application of ProKera (with a pH of 3.5) lowers the pH of the skin to create a hostile environment for bacteria to propagate. ProKera can be an effective deterrent to bacterial growth on the skin surface and be especially helpful for people who are susceptible to the drying effects of alcohol-based anti-bacterial aids/soaps
Your skin is the most important part of your body. It wraps the package, so to speak, and protects you against all kinds of invasions, from temperature extremes to bacteria and pollution. Most everyone knows how important it is to maintain healthy skin, yet almost every single one of us abuses our skin without even thinking about it!
Even the most subtle changes in our diet - something as simple as taking an aspirin - can have an impact on our skin. Staying too long in the hot sun, going outside in the winter without covering up, even enjoying a long, hot shower or bath, can have consequences you might never notice… until you finally begin to see the tell-tale signs of dryness, aging, and just plain abuse. Dry skin gets hard, flaky, scaly, and it might even peel or crack. It's like your skin is crying out for help.
When that happens, most of us grab a big bottle of hand and body lotion and slather up. There are thousands of products on the market proclaiming help for dry skin, but the one thing most of them have in common is … they just don't work. You might find temporary relief, but soon the symptoms are back. When those symptoms go beyond even extreme dry skin, real problems can develop.
pH of The Skin
Rita: please give me some information for this part.
Ichthyosis, Eczema and Other Diseases of the Skin
Rita: have Mike write me a simple description of these two and any other skin diseases that would be considered "common" enough to fit here. Then I'll polish it a bit and put it into context here.
About Prescription Medicines:
Many dermatologists prescribe medications found to be effective in treating diseases of the skin, and many use proprietary formulas they have developed themselves. Like any medication, these are designed to treat symptoms and control one or more aspects of the disease and its impact on the body. Allergies, medications and other existing conditions may interact with the effectiveness of these prescriptions, but the most common complaint is that they often smell bad, stain clothing, or require elaborate application techniques. And no prescription can treat the social and psychological impact of unsightly, diseased skin. From extreme acne to the often agonizing pain of eczema, these conditions cause misery and suffering.
Today's modern treatment techniques include lasers, microdermabrasion, and a vast array of treatment options. One thing all of us can do, however, is to give our skin daily care with a product that exfoliates the outer layer of skin, and hydrates deep into the surface.
Skin Cancer: The Biggest Betrayal
Even the most subtle changes in our diet - something as simple as taking an aspirin - can have an impact on our skin. Staying too long in the hot sun, going outside in the winter without covering up, even enjoying a long, hot shower or bath, can have consequences you might never notice… until you finally begin to see the tell-tale signs of dryness, aging, and just plain abuse. Dry skin gets hard, flaky, scaly, and it might even peel or crack. It's like your skin is crying out for help.
When that happens, most of us grab a big bottle of hand and body lotion and slather up. There are thousands of products on the market proclaiming help for dry skin, but the one thing most of them have in common is … they just don't work. You might find temporary relief, but soon the symptoms are back. When those symptoms go beyond even extreme dry skin, real problems can develop.
pH of The Skin
Rita: please give me some information for this part.
Ichthyosis, Eczema and Other Diseases of the Skin
Rita: have Mike write me a simple description of these two and any other skin diseases that would be considered "common" enough to fit here. Then I'll polish it a bit and put it into context here.
About Prescription Medicines:
Many dermatologists prescribe medications found to be effective in treating diseases of the skin, and many use proprietary formulas they have developed themselves. Like any medication, these are designed to treat symptoms and control one or more aspects of the disease and its impact on the body. Allergies, medications and other existing conditions may interact with the effectiveness of these prescriptions, but the most common complaint is that they often smell bad, stain clothing, or require elaborate application techniques. And no prescription can treat the social and psychological impact of unsightly, diseased skin. From extreme acne to the often agonizing pain of eczema, these conditions cause misery and suffering.
Today's modern treatment techniques include lasers, microdermabrasion, and a vast array of treatment options. One thing all of us can do, however, is to give our skin daily care with a product that exfoliates the outer layer of skin, and hydrates deep into the surface.
Skin Cancer: The Biggest Betrayal
The beauty of a hot summer day and the joy of lying on a lovely beach, enjoying the leisure and warmth of the Sun is a cruel pleasure. While we might enjoy the lift to our spirits, the biggest betrayal is that the sun's rays can not only be harmful, they can be deadly.
Dry Skin Care Tips
To achieve soft skin fast, follow these directions nightly before retiring.D
Shower or spray skin to be treated to hydrate it thoroughly. Pat dry. Immediately apply ProKera Dry Skin Protection for Hand & Body to area being treated. Apply liberal amount (at least 1 tsp. for both hands) of Vaseline or other barrier ointment. Put cotton gloves on hands (or socks on feet, sleeves on arms, leggings on legs) - cover the area being treated. Attempt to leave covering on overnight.
Repeat for the next several evenings. Do not wash gloves, socks, leggings or sleeves, thereby allowing penetrated ointment to create occlusive covering for the dry body part. If your skin is chronically dry, consider changing some of your habits to alleviate the problem. Look on it as a game to improve the condition of your skin. Dry skin is only going to get worse as you age, so begin learning to adapt now because change is hard.
Reduce the amount of bathing each week, or the amount of time spent in water, reduce the heat of the water. Consider sponge baths instead of total submersion. Use moisturizing, super-fatted soaps such as Dove, Tone, Caress or ProKera Botanical Bars. Avoid deodorant soaps. Moisturize right after every washing while skin is still damp to replenish oils on the surface of the skin and hold in hydration.
Instead of submerging hands in dishwater, consider washing dishes with a brush, soap and running water. Rinsing right after eating makes clean-up easier. Soaking dried-on dirty dishes for several minutes before cleaning makes them easier to clean. Dilute liquid soaps by 2/3 to reduce sudsing and drying effect.
For floors, use a mop with a self squeezing handle instead of a rag in your hands. Avoid direct contact with harsh solvents, dirt - wear gloves.
Wear gloves outside in cold weather.
Avoid swimming pools and spas - chlorine/bromine are very drying. If you exercise in the water, keep time to minimum, bathe right after swimming to remove all chemicals and apply lotion after each session.
Include vegetable oils (esp. olive) and fish oils (Omega 3) in your diet. People from Mediterranean countries consume ½ cup raw olive oil/day in foods & salads.
Quit smoking.
Stay out of the sun. Use sunblock if you plan to be exposed.
Some dry skin conditions are genetic and can be exacerbated by stress. With the skin being the largest organ of the body, it is likely to mirror changes in your body. Exercise, meditation and life changes to reduce stress may help resolve skin issues.
Shower or spray skin to be treated to hydrate it thoroughly. Pat dry. Immediately apply ProKera Dry Skin Protection for Hand & Body to area being treated. Apply liberal amount (at least 1 tsp. for both hands) of Vaseline or other barrier ointment. Put cotton gloves on hands (or socks on feet, sleeves on arms, leggings on legs) - cover the area being treated. Attempt to leave covering on overnight.
Repeat for the next several evenings. Do not wash gloves, socks, leggings or sleeves, thereby allowing penetrated ointment to create occlusive covering for the dry body part. If your skin is chronically dry, consider changing some of your habits to alleviate the problem. Look on it as a game to improve the condition of your skin. Dry skin is only going to get worse as you age, so begin learning to adapt now because change is hard.
Reduce the amount of bathing each week, or the amount of time spent in water, reduce the heat of the water. Consider sponge baths instead of total submersion. Use moisturizing, super-fatted soaps such as Dove, Tone, Caress or ProKera Botanical Bars. Avoid deodorant soaps. Moisturize right after every washing while skin is still damp to replenish oils on the surface of the skin and hold in hydration.
Instead of submerging hands in dishwater, consider washing dishes with a brush, soap and running water. Rinsing right after eating makes clean-up easier. Soaking dried-on dirty dishes for several minutes before cleaning makes them easier to clean. Dilute liquid soaps by 2/3 to reduce sudsing and drying effect.
For floors, use a mop with a self squeezing handle instead of a rag in your hands. Avoid direct contact with harsh solvents, dirt - wear gloves.
Wear gloves outside in cold weather.
Avoid swimming pools and spas - chlorine/bromine are very drying. If you exercise in the water, keep time to minimum, bathe right after swimming to remove all chemicals and apply lotion after each session.
Include vegetable oils (esp. olive) and fish oils (Omega 3) in your diet. People from Mediterranean countries consume ½ cup raw olive oil/day in foods & salads.
Quit smoking.
Stay out of the sun. Use sunblock if you plan to be exposed.
Some dry skin conditions are genetic and can be exacerbated by stress. With the skin being the largest organ of the body, it is likely to mirror changes in your body. Exercise, meditation and life changes to reduce stress may help resolve skin issues.
copyright 2010 c DermaSytems Inc.
all rights reserved
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