Skin Care & Hair

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells, causing the skin to rapidly produce new cells. This excessive cell turnover leads to the formation of thick, scaly patches on top of the skin.

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a common skin condition characterized by inflamed, itchy, and often red or dry skin. Eczema is believed to result from a combination of genetic and environmental factors, and it typically presents in childhood. Although eczema can affect individuals of all ages, it can improve as children grow older

While both conditions can be associated with itchy and inflamed skin, there are key distinctions between the two:

• Appearance: Psoriasis is known for its silvery-white scales, whereas eczema is usually marked by red or brownish patches with a rough texture.
• Age of Onset: Psoriasis typically appears in adulthood, while eczema often begins in childhood.
• Root Cause: Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition, whereas eczema is linked to a combination of genetics and environmental triggers.

Skin folds are natural creases and areas of overlap on the body where skin rubs against itself. Common locations for skin folds include the armpits, groin, beneath breasts, and between the thighs. The constant friction and trapped moisture in these areas can lead to chafing and fungal infections.

Fungal infections, particularly yeast infections, are a common concern in skin folds. These infections are characterized by redness, itching, and discomfort. To combat this issue, antifungal powders, creams and other antifungal skin care products may help.

When it comes to choosing the best powder for skin folds, look for products specifically designed to combat fungal infections. They help keep skin dry and discourage the growth of fungi.

Some people could experience irritation, redness, and itching when using conventional anti-perspirants, which can contain synthetic fragrances, alcohol, or other ingredients that may be problematic for those with sensitive skin. Aluminum-free deodorants often contain natural ingredients like baking soda, arrowroot powder, and essential oils that can be milder on the skin. These ingredients help defuse odor and absorb moisture without causing irritation, potentially making them a great option for those with sensitive skin.

Aluminum-free deodorants can be packaged in eco-friendly, recyclable, or biodegradable materials. By choosing these products, you can help contribute to reducing plastic waste and the environmental impact of personal skin care products. Furthermore, some brands prioritize sustainable sourcing and ethical production practices, which align with the growing awareness of environmental responsibility.

Aluminum-free deodorants can contain natural ingredients to help combat odor effectively. Essential oils, such as lavendar and tea tree, can provide a pleasant scent while potentially offering antibacterial properties to help keep you feeling fresh throughout the day. With aluminum-free options, you may be able to confidently tackle odor without synthetic fragrances or harsh ingredients.

*This article is intended for informational purposes only and should not be substituted for medical advice. For medical questions and advice, it is always best to consult with your trained physician.

Source: 

Wińska, K., Mączka, W., Łyczko, J., Grabarczyk, M., Czubaszek, A., & Szumny, A. (2019, June 5). Essential oils as antimicrobial agents-myth or real alternative?. Molecules (Basel, Switzerland). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6612361/ 

When cosmetic manufacturers procure individual ingredients for their products, they have a choice between pharmaceutical-grade and cosmetic-grade options. The difference between the two lies in the assurance of efficacy and purity provided by each category. Cosmetic-grade ingredients do not come with guarantees regarding the quality or purity of the ingredients. In contrast, pharmaceutical-grade ingredients are sourced from companies that allow regulatory inspections of their facilities for ingredient testing. These ingredients come with a Certificate of Analysis, which validates their purity and quality. For an ingredient to be classified as pharmaceutical grade, it must be at least 99.5% pure. The Certificate of Analysis also ensures the absence of impurities such as heavy metals or toxins that are undesirable in skincare products. Reputable skincare manufacturers prioritize the use of pharmaceutical-grade ingredients whenever possible.

iS Clinical, for instance, conducts a variety of clinical studies on all its products to demonstrate their efficacy in improving skin health. These studies focus on the final product purchased by consumers. Unfortunately, some companies advertising ingredient studies often fail to disclose that these studies were conducted on superior-quality ingredients, not the lower-quality ingredients found in their cheaper products. To truly evaluate the effectiveness of a skincare product, it is crucial to examine clinical studies conducted on the final formula, considering factors such as ingredient quality, composition, and synergy.

Ingredient quality is a critical consideration in the development of cost-effective skincare products. The quality of ingredients directly impacts the efficacy and safety of the products, making it essential to prioritize sourcing high-quality components. By selecting premium ingredients, skincare manufacturers can ensure that their products deliver the desired results while maintaining affordability. High-quality ingredients are often more potent and effective, requiring smaller quantities for optimal outcomes. Additionally, superior ingredients can be less likely to cause adverse reactions or irritations, enhancing the overall safety profile of the skincare products. By focusing on ingredient quality, skincare developers can strike a balance between cost-effectiveness and the delivery of exceptional results, fostering customer satisfaction and loyalty.

Consumers should be discerning when evaluating skincare products. While the term "cosmeceutical" implies a higher quality blend between cosmetics and pharmaceuticals, it is not a regulated term recognized by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Manufacturers have the freedom to use this term without necessarily adhering to the highest ingredient standards. Therefore, consumers must educate themselves and scrutinize claims made by companies regarding ingredient quality and product efficacy.

In skincare products, ingredient quality and formulation are both of paramount importance. Superior results can be achieved when companies prioritize high-quality, pharmaceutical-grade ingredients, supported by scientific formulation processes. Consumers should be cautious of misleading advertising and seek products backed by clinical studies conducted on the final formulas. By understanding the significance of ingredient quality and formulation, individuals can make informed decisions and select skincare products that deliver the desired results for healthy and radiant skin.

Providing over-the-counter skin and hair care products to help treat and manage certain skin conditions is an important part of the Mayo Clinic Store assortment. Several of the products available at Mayo Clinic Store are intended for sensitive skin or for those who need, or want, to use products that are formulated without common chemical irritants, like parabens and masking fragrance, that can be found in other skin and hair care products. Many products are meant for everyday use in skin and hair care routines, including cleansers and moisturizers used for aesthetic purposes. According to board certified dermatologist at Mayo Clinic, Dr. Saranya Wyles, “Healthy skin aging can be maintained by restoring collagen that degrades with time. Daily use of a topical Vitamin C serum or topical retinoid products can help boost the appearance of healthy skin and maintain natural collagen production as we age.”

With warmer weather upon us, sun protection becomes more important as we spend more time outdoors. Dr. Hafsa Cantwell, a board certified dermatologist at Mayo Clinic says, “I recommend sunscreens with SPF 30 or higher for sun protection. For patients with sensitive skin, I recommend mineral based sunscreens, such as zinc oxide sunscreens.” Mayo Clinic Store offers sunscreens with mineral sunscreen active ingredients, like zinc oxide, and combination sunscreen active ingredients, which include both chemical and mineral sunscreen active ingredients.

Those with skin conditions that are side effects of treatment therapies or skin conditions such as lip and cold sores and seborrheic dermatitis or dandruff can find products formulated with active ingredients to help these conditions. Board certified dermatologist at Mayo Clinic, Dr. Julio Sartori Valinotti says, “Patients with dandruff (seborrheic dermatitis) benefit from rotating anti-dandruff shampoos. I usually recommend products containing pyrithione zinc, selenium sulfide or ketoconazole alternating on a daily basis.”

Mayo Clinic Store works closely with our clinical partners in dermatology at Mayo Clinic to carry a wide variety of skin and hair care products, and most locations have an assortment of these products available to purchase in-store or online. 

Patients with dandruff (seborrheic dermatitis) benefit from rotating anti-dandruff shampoos.

*This article is intended for informational purposes only and should not substituted for medical advice. For medical questions and advice, it is always best to consult with your trained physician.