Your Dermatologist Knows

How to fade dark spots (hyperpigmentation)

Have you tried treating dark spots on your own without getting the results you want? Do you see new dark spots appear as others fade?

If you answered yes, you’re not alone. Darks spots and patches rank as one of the most common reasons that people who have darker skin tones see a dermatologist. The medical name for one cause of these dark spots is post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Some people just call it hyperpigmentation for short.

Is hyperpigmentation curable?

While you can get rid of the dark spots and patches, new ones can form.

Even though you cannot cure all forms of hyperpigmentation, you can prevent it from developing again. Here’s what dermatologists recommend:

• Apply your sunscreen every two hours, and after swimming or sweating.

• When outdoors, wear a wide-brimmed hat.

• Try to avoid being outdoors when the sun is strongest, which is between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.

• Use skin care products that are gentle on your skin. If a product burns or stings when you apply it, stop using it.

• Continue to address the cause of the dark spots. For example, if you have a skin condition, continue to treat the skin condition.

How a dermatologist can help with hyperpigmentation

If the treatment you’re using fails to deliver the results you want, you may want to see a dermatologist. Dark spots and patches can be a challenge to treat. To get rid of some dark spots or patches, you may need a prescription-strength treatment.

A dermatologist has the knowledge and expertise to safely combine treatments to help you get the best results.

To learn more about the AAD's recommendations and find out more information read: https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-secrets/routine/fade-dark-spots 

6 skin and hair conditions linked to stress

1. Gray hair. Researchers have found stress helps cause gray hair by making the melanin — the substance that gives hair and skin color — move out of your hair follicles.

2. Eczema/Atopic dermatitis. Stress does not cause eczema, but it may make your eczema feel even itchier. Because stress makes it harder for your skin to heal, feeling stressed can also lengthen eczema flares.

3. Psoriasis. Stress does not cause psoriasis. However, some people who have psoriasis say stress may trigger their psoriasis flare-ups. It’s also common to feel stressed because of the way psoriasis looks and feels.

4. Chronic urticaria. Urticaria, or hives, can be extremely uncomfortable. Hives can be triggered by many factors, including allergies to medications or foods, infections, or sunlight. Sometimes, the cause is unknown. Some people experience hives when they’re highly stressed. Having hives can also affect your mood and impact how well you sleep.

5. Hair loss and hair shedding. Stressful life events, like being very sick or giving birth, can sometimes cause your hair to fall out, or shed, because of a condition called telogen effluvium. Psychological stress, like losing a loved one or pressure at work, can also trigger telogen effluvium.

6. Acne. Your acne can be caused by several factors, like genetics or using oily products. Stress can worsen your acne. When you’re stressed, your body releases hormones that increase the amount of oil your skin makes. This increase in oil can clog the pores in your skin and cause an acne flare-up.

To learn more about the AAD's stress management and treatments, read more at: https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/stress-skin-conditions 

When should I see a dermatologist?

Partnering with a board-certified dermatologist is a good first step to take control of your skin or hair condition and manage your stress. 

Dry Shampoo: Dermatologists' Tips

It’s easy to see why people love dry shampoo. Apply a small amount to dry hair and you have a convenient way to soak up the oil, making your hair look clean. This can be helpful after a workout, when camping, or any time you’re running late in the morning. Dry shampoo can also make your hair look fuller.

However, the most frequent reason people use dry shampoo is to make hair dye, highlights, and salon styles like blowouts and up-dos last longer, says board-certified dermatologist Zoe Draelos, MD, FAAD.

Another plus is that “some dry shampoos contain pigment that helps cover gray,” says board-certified dermatologist Paradi Mirmirani, MD, FAAD. She adds, “If you have fine, long hair that gets frizzy after washing, you may want to use dry shampoo to reduce how often you wash your hair.”

The key to reaping the benefits of dry shampoo is to use it the right way. To get expert advice on how to use dry shampoo and avoid some common mistakes, we asked Drs. Draelos and Mirmirani for tips. To learn more about the AAD's recommendations for dry shampoo use, read more at: https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/hair-scalp-care/hair/dry-shampoo-best-results 

When to see a dermatologist

Most people use dry shampoo without problem.

If you develop itching, burning, or another sign of irritation on your scalp, stop using dry shampoo. After a few weeks, the irritation should clear up. If the irritation remains the same or worsens after a few weeks, a board-certified dermatologist can help.