In today’s economy, we are all looking for affordable but effective ways to keep skin looking its best.  From the dollar store to the department store, there are many products available.  The reality is that most of them are great.  There are, however, home alternatives which often times don’t require a shopping trip.  Not only do these alternatives work, but they are also fun and simple to create.

TREAT ACNE
Acne can be one of those persistent problems, popping up at the worst time.  We’ve all had these flare-ups, which include pimples before a big party or that pimple that appears just before an important date.  The best at home treatment for acne is a warm compress, consisting of a washcloth and some warm water. 
Then follow these steps: 
1. Apply the warm washcloth to the pimple or acne-prone area
2. Hold the compress on for 3-5 minutes, continually warming it up as necessary, to maintain a warm feeling on your skin  
3. Be sure not to use water that is too hot — not only will it burn the skin, but it won’t do any good in treating the acne   
4. Repeat the compress every 2-4 hours until the acne disappears.  Depending on where you are in the acne breakout, your acne should clear up within 24-36 hours  

For an inexpensive product that can be used in conjunction with this remedy I suggest Unblemished Treatment Concealer by Beauty Benefits. 

UNCLOG BLACKHEADS
Not many faces are blackhead free… To help rid your skin of these, use oatmeal and rose water to create a soft paste.  Cover blackheads with the paste and rub it into your skin.  Wait 15-20 minutes and then rinse away.  You can also use this oatmeal mask all over your face for a radiant glow.  

If you are in a rush, and don’t have time to create the paste, simply head to your nearest drugstore and purchase Neutrogena Healthy Skin and Neutrogena Healthy Skin Anti-Wrinkle Anti-Blemish Scrub. 

CLEANSE AND EXFOLIATE
For an affordable but effective skin cleanser and exfoliator, I recommend creating a solution of sugar and water.  Before putting the solution on, open pores by first leaving a warm cloth over your face for a few minutes.  Rub the water and sugar solution gently into your skin and then rinse.  This does a great job and will leave your skin clear, clean and refreshed.

For a more aggressive exfoliator, mix in sea salt instead of sugar.  This can be used to exfoliate your entire body and works great on those annoying rough spots like feet, knees and elbows.

Not interested in making it yourself? Pick up St. Ives Apricot Scrub.  It’s a solid alternative.

ALLEVIATE DRY SKIN
Take a quick trip to your pantry and pull out a bottle of olive oil … Olive oil was good enough for the ancient Greeks and it’s good enough for you, too.  The ancient Greeks used olive oil to bathe and to moisturize dry skin.  Almost every vegetable oil is compatible with the skin.  Apply just after bathing to moisturize and protect dry skin.  Use it daily to help reduce dry patches and the appearance of stretch marks. 

While I recommend olive oil for any skin, if you insist on store bought, try good old Coconut Body Butter.

HYDRATE
Drink water every day.  We know it’s good for us in every way.  It makes your skin look great, too.

NOURISH YOUR SKIN
Facial masks can be fun and help rejuvenate your skin.  Try making one at home.  A honey mask is a great way to brighten and lighten your skin.  Mix one tablespoon of honey, one egg yolk and one teaspoon of olive oil together.  Beat the egg yolk first and then add the oil and blend well.  Add the honey with a spoon rinsed in hot water and blend well.  Apply this honey mask to your face, avoiding your eye area.  Leave on your face for 20-30 minutes and rinse.  The difference is visible.

A great alternative to the honey mask is The Original Mint Julep Masque available at almost any drugstore.

TONE AND TIGHTEN
NE Witch hazel, available at any drug store has been the main ingredient in most toners and is not irritating to the skin. It still works great on its own.  Gently wash your face.  Pat your skin dry and then apply witch hazel with a cotton ball.  If you have dry flaky skin, try diluting the witch hazel with two parts water.  Since witch hazel is an astringent, always moisturize after you tone.  Try mixing two tablespoons of witch hazel with one teaspoon of lemon juice and three tablespoons of rose water for a refreshing toner.

Be sure to keep witch hazel at home.  Not only does it do a great job of toning and tightening your skin, but it’s an excellent topical remedy for the treatment of traumatic bruises and bumps and promotes speedy healing.

MOISTURIZE
Moisturizing is essential for your skin not only because it locks in hydration, but moisturizer creates a protective barrier between your skin and the elements.  Making an effective moisturizer at home is not difficult. Take five to six drops of sweet almond oil and add a few drops of water. Mix the two ingredients in your palms, rubbing both hands together then gently smooth the blend into your skin. 

Moisturizing is the bottom line in skincare — almost any moisturizer will do the trick.  Eucerin Extra Protective Moisture Lotion with SPF is a great body moisturizer and it is available at most drugstores nationwide.

SOOTHE
From time to time you may find your skin red and irritated.  Taking care of red, irritated skin at home is as easy as a glass of milk. It doesn’t matter if you prefer cow’s or soy milk ― they both get the job done.  Soak a wash cloth in milk and then apply the cloth to the effected area.  Leave on the skin for at least five minutes.  Repeat as often as necessary depending on the irritation.  Milk sooths and calms the skin and helps to promote healing while softening and nourishing the skin.

For the store bought alternative, try an aloe vera gel.  It’s cooling to the skin and aloe naturally helps promote healing. 

MINIMIZE PORES
Our pores are an open target. They collect oil and often get clogged, causing the pores to appear larger than we want.  The easiest treatment option is actually free.  Run hot water into a stopped sink or a large bowl. Drape a towel over your head and lean over the steam.  Using the towel helps to trap in the rising steam.  Gently cleansing the skin or gently exfoliating the skin helps minimize the appearance of clogged pores.  Pat skin dry and use a toner to tighten and refine.

A great option that you can purchase in the store is Neutrogena Pore Minimizing Mask.  It will minimize the appearance of your pores and refresh your skin.

Dr. Neil Sadick is one of the most renowned dermatologists and researchers whose multiple discoveries have strongly influenced and transformed the future of dermatology. He is a Professor of Dermatology at Weill Cornell Medical College and President of the Cosmetic Surgery Foundation. Dr. Sadick is author, or co-author, of more than 500 articles in peer-reviewed scientific journals and has contributed more than 75 chapters of medical books. Read more at www.sadickdermatology.com.

With all the hype about fighting aging through Botox and cosmetic fillers, we sometimes forget that the heart of dermatology is based in addressing common skin concerns.  This blog entry will be high-level overview of these concerns and some common ways to treat them.

The top ten skin issues we see at Sadick Dermatology are:
 1. Acne
 2. Allergic Rashes
 3. Eczema/Psoriasis/Dry Skin
 4. Suspicious Moles/Skin Cancer
 5. Hair loss
 6. Warts
 7. Nail Fungus
 8. Rosacea
 9. Herpes
 10. Pigmentation

Acne
Acne is a skin disease that affects more than 85% of teenagers.  In many cases, acne diminishes with age, but some people continue to have breakouts in their 30s, 40s and 50s. Acne can be treated by a number of over-the-counter remedies that contain drying agents such as salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide.  For more severe cases of acne, patients may opt for low-dose oral antibiotics, topical antibiotics, topical retinoids, phototherapy or laser treatments.

Allergic Rashes
These are changes of the skin, which change the skin’s color, appearance and/or texture.  Rashes may be localized or affect larger areas of the skin.  In many cases, patients complain of itchiness ― although not all rashes itch.  Obviously, not all rashes are the same and it is best to go to a dermatologist to identify the cause so that the best treatment regimen can be secured.  Learning the cause of the rash is the best way to prevent future breakouts.

Eczema/Psoriasis and Dry Skin
These are all somewhat related in that they are inflammatory, persistent skin issues that are tied to skin dryness and recurring skin rashes. They can be unsightly and annoying.  Treatments vary and a visit to the dermatologist is usually necessary.  Common treatments involve topical corticosteroids in the form of ointments, creams or lotions.  In severe cases, dermatologists may recommend photo/light treatments (PUVA or UVB) or systemic prescriptions such as biologics, cyclosporine, methotrexate or retinoids.

Suspicious Moles/Skin Cancer
Moles are another frequent skin issue.  With the increasing rates of skin cancer, patients should seek medical guidance when a suspicious mole appears.  For starters, moles are perfectly natural and can be influenced by genes or sunlight.  While moles are naturally occurring, it’s the appearance of the mole and its characteristics that distinguish benign moles from cancerous moles.  The four key criteria for moles relate to asymmetry, border, color and diameter. Sometimes evolving is added as a fifth criterion.  If a mole starts changing in size, color, shape or if the border becomes ragged or you notice bleeding, then it’s important to consult a dermatologist.  

Hair Loss
Many female and male patients come to visit my office to discuss hair loss which can be caused by a variety of issues.  The most common form is alopecia, a medical term for loss of hair from the head or body.  Alopecia can be a genetic phenomenon, hormone variation, or even a reaction to a hair treatment such as relaxers or hot hair irons.  In some cases it can be related to an iron deficiency.  For the best result, go to a dermatologist with a specialty in hair loss. This physician can determine the exact cause and provide a treatment that may include topical creams and ointments as well as special prescription shampoos and conditioners.

Warts
Warts are generally small in size and rough to the touch.  They appear most commonly on the hands and feet.  They are very common and are caused by a virus named HPV.  They are contagious when there is contact with the skin of an infected person.  You should also be aware that it is possible to get warts from using towels or other items used by an infected person.  In many cases, warts go away after a few months, but sometimes can last for years.  Treatments for warts vary from over-the-counter topical products, to prescriptions and cryosurgery.  While warts may be unsightly, they are not harmful and can be easily treated.

Nail Fungus
Many patients have concerns over nail fungus.  Onychomycosis is the medical term for a fungal infection of the nail.  This common condition impacts as much as 8% of the entire adult population.  It can appear on both finger and toe nails and is characterized by thickening and a yellow or cloudy appearance to the nail.  There is usually no pain associated with a nail fungus.  The treatment for nail fungus can be difficult because the infection is usually embedded within the nail and therefore difficult to heal with topical treatments.  The most effective treatments seem to be systemic antifungal medications.  These medications may have an impact on the liver and it is important to be followed by a physician.  Also note that it can take up to a year to clear up the nail fungus.

Rosacea
This is a widespread skin condition that usually affects Caucasians.  Rosacea patients have flushing and redness on their face and may also have small red bumps or pustules.  Rosacea can appear on both sexes but seems to affect people between the 30s and 60s.  Unfortunately, there is no consensus as to the cause of rosacea, treatments vary and a dermatologist should be consulted.  Some treatment tips are to avoid irritating topical lotions and cleansers and to use sunscreens with a minimum SPF 15.  Prescription treatments can include both topical and oral medications.  A dermatologist may recommend a photorejuvenation treatment.  Rosacea can be difficult to treat and many patients are encouraged to follow regimens and be patient.  It can take up to 1-2 years to get the disorder under control.

Herpes
Herpes simplex is a viral disease caused by the herpes simplex viruses.  Oral herpes, also called cold sores, usually infect the face and the mouth.  Infection of the genitals is also very common.    Herpes viruses have a cycle and there are periods where the virus is active and periods where the virus is inactive.  The active cycle can last between 2 and 20 days, during which sores appear and then disappear.  Recurrence times vary and there is no consensus on the triggers.  While there is no cure for the virus, there are treatments that can reduce outbreak frequency and duration.  Herpes is contracted through direct contact with an active lesion or the body fluid of an infected person.  Condoms are the best way to limit transmission because the virus cannot pass through latex.  The most common medications used to treat herpes include antiviral medications such as Zovirax, Valtrex and Famvir. 

Pigmentation Disorders
The final top ten skin concern that patients have relates to skin pigmentation.  Skin pigmentation disorders affect the color of skin.  The most common form of skin pigmentation that we see in our office is hyperpigmentation or the darkening of an area of the skin.  Hyperpigmentation may be caused by sun damage, inflammation or acne.  Individuals with Asian, East Indian and African skin tones seem to be more prone to hyperpigmentation.  Treatment for these darker areas includes medications that bleach or lighten the skin.  Common ingredients include hydroquinone, kojic acid, azelaic acid, ascorbic acid and retinoids. 

As in all cases, patients are encouraged to seek treatment and advice from a physician if there is a skin concern or issue.  In many cases, these conditions are covered by insurance and can be treated with either over-the-counter treatments or with prescription medications. 

Dr. Neil Sadick is one of the most renowned dermatologists and researchers whose multiple discoveries have strongly influenced and transformed the future of dermatology. He is a Professor of Dermatology at Weill Cornell Medical College and President of the Cosmetic Surgery Foundation. Dr. Sadick is author, or co-author, of more than 500 articles in peer-reviewed scientific journals and has contributed more than 75 chapters of medical books. Read more at www.sadickdermatology.com.

It is finally possible to achieve professional-like results when using at-home skin care and hair removal products. The best results are experienced when consumers employ novel technologies similar to what dermatologists and plastic surgeons utilize in the office.

Professional quality technologies are now available for all consumers. The major areas where these are used revolve around hair removal, treatment of acne and rejuvenation of aging skin.

There are three main hair removal devices include:

• No!No! – employs a patented thermal heating element called Thermicon. This technology slows down the actively growing cells of the hair follicle
• The Silk’n™- a broad-spectrum light source similar to an IPL (intense pulsed light)
• Tria – diode laser technology

All three employ lower energies than those available in the doctor’s office. Many are FDA-approved and when used for longer periods of time (up to eight -12 weeks) have produced in clinically proven studies, up to 50-60 percent long-term hair removal. Results are almost comparable to what dermatologists are able to achieve in office settings, using higher power, more expensive technologies. The safety and efficacy of these at-home technologies has been proven in many scientific studies through published literature.

For at home acne treatment, there are the Zeno™ and ThermaClear®, which employ heat elements. Under development is the No!No! skin device, which uses a broad-spectrum light heat pulsing technology similar and comparable to what is used in the dermatologist’s office. These three at-home acne treatments help reduce acne forming bacteria, decrease inflammation on the skin and temporarily shrink sebaceous glands.

Ongoing FDA and published studies show similar efficacy with at-home acne treatments as to what can be achieved in the office setting, utilizing topical acne antibiotics, benzoyl peroxide, retinoic acid derivative as well in some cases as oral antibiotics.

Anti-aging rejuvenation technologies are also in the exploration stage. Studies are on going using red light LED sources.

There are three exciting ways for consumers to safely treat themselves at home with technologies that deliver near comparable professional results for hair removal, acne treatment and photorejuvenation. The key difference is that at home technology requires longer treatment time intervals.