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3Q06 DF Skin Care Blurb
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Diabetes Focus Third Quarter 2006
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Dr. Glogau: The most effective is sunscreen. Ninety-five percent of what people don’t like about their skin is the result of exposure to ultraviolet light. So use a high SPF sunscreen, and use it regularly.
Dr. West: Retinoids reverse photo-aging, thicken the skin’s top layer, even out pigmentation and get rid of fine lines. Some over-the-counter retinoids are active, but not as active as the prescription versions. None should be used by anyone who is planning to become pregnant or is already pregnant or nursing. As antioxidants go, Pro-Heal from Innovative Skincare contains an antioxidant from an olive-leaf extract called oleuropein. But remember, antioxidants prevent, but do not reverse, aging.
Dr. Donofrio: Moisturizers temporarily bridge the gap between washing and restoration of normal oil gland function. A better solution is to use a nondrying or moisturizing cleanser like Cetaphil.
Dr. G: Moisturizers slow the rate of evaporation from the skin and can decrease the sensation of roughness and irritation. But they do not fundamentally affect the way that your skin metabolizes.
Dr. W: Moisturizers with humectants, like propylene glycol, attract water. Other components, like the silicones, give a slippery feel to the skin while providing a barrier to environmental factors.
Dr. D: There are no well-controlled studies that show any benefit of topical or oral vitamins on the skin.
Dr. G: When applied topically, vitamins A and C may be absorbed and metabolized by the skin, but the effects are modest at best.
Dr. W: When applied topically, niacinamide (a B vitamin) does act as an exfoliant, decreases fine lines and lends the skin radiance. Topical application of vitamin E works as a skin smoother and softener, not as an antioxidant. When absorbed through food, though, it is a good antioxidant.
Dr. D: Most people who consider their skin sensitive experience stinging, burning, redness or dryness from products that the rest of us can tolerate. I certainly recommend avoiding any offending agents and using gentle cleansers and chemical-free sunscreens instead.
Dr. W: Sensitive skin reacts easily to various products and environmental factors that do not commonly cause irritation or sensitization. This type of skin should be hydrated with a moisturizer containing relatively inert ingredients (that is, petrolatum) and should be protected by a sunscreen containing a physical blocker (such as zinc or titanium).
Note: If you have redness on the cheeks, nose, chin or forehead; small visible blood vessels and/or bumps or pimples on the face; or watery or irritated eyes, you may have rosacea and should consult a dermatologist.
Richard Glogau, M.D.,
is a professor of dermatology at the University of California, San Francisco.
Tina West, M.D.,
is a dermatologist at Reisin West Institute in Chevy Chase, MD.
Lisa Donofrio, M.D.,
is an associate clinical professor of dermatology at Yale University School of Medicine in New Haven, CT.
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