Monday 30 January 2023

Vitamin D and Risk factor of Skin Cancer


Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that occurs when pigment-producing cells become malignant. It is a particularly dangerous form of skin cancer because it can spread to other parts of the body if not detected and treated early.

University Reviews:

A study conducted by the University of Eastern Finland and Kuopio University Hospital found that fewer cases of melanoma were observed among regular users of vitamin D supplements. Experienced dermatologists also estimated that those taking vitamin D supplements regularly had a significantly lower skin cancer risk. The study, published in Melanoma Research, involved nearly 500 individuals at elevated risk for skin cancer and showed that those who took vitamin D supplements regularly had a reduced incidence of melanoma compared to non-users.

The function of Vitamin D:

Vitamin D is vital for the proper functioning of the human body and may be implicated in various diseases. There has been extensive research on the relationship between vitamin D and skin cancers, with a focus on calcidiol, a metabolite of vitamin D, and its correlation with skin cancers. Previous studies have centered on examining serum levels of calcidiol and its link to skin cancers.

Findings:

Findings from these studies have been inconclusive and even contradictory at times, as serum calcidiol levels have been associated with both a slightly higher and a slightly lower risk of different skin cancers. This may partly be explained by the fact that serum calcidiol analyses do not provide information on the metabolism of vitamin D in the human skin, which can express enzymes that generate biologically active vitamin D metabolites or inactivate them.

Skin Cancer: 

The new study, conducted under the North Savo Skin Cancer Programmed, took a different approach: 498 adult patients estimated to have an increased risk of skin cancer, such as basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, or melanoma, were recruited at the dermatological outpatient clinic of Kuopio University Hospital. Experienced dermatologists at the University of Eastern Finland carefully analyzed the patients’ background information and medical history and examined their skin.

Dermatologists:

The dermatologists also classified the patients into different skin cancer risk classes: low risk, moderate risk, and high risk. Based on their use of oral vitamin D supplements, the patients were divided into three groups: non-users, occasional users, and regular users. Serum calcidiol levels were analyzed in half of the patients and found to correspond to their self-reported use of vitamin D.

A key finding of the study is that there were considerably fewer cases of melanoma among regular users of vitamin D than among non-users and that the skin cancer risk classification of regular users was considerably better than non-users. Logistic regression analysis showed that the risk for melanoma among regular users was considerably reduced, more than halved, compared to non-users.

The findings suggest that even occasional users of vitamin D may have a lower risk for melanoma than non-users. However, there was no statistically significant association between the use of vitamin D and the severity of photoaging, facial photoaging, actinic keratoses, nevus count, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma. Serum calcidiol levels were not significantly associated with these skin changes, either. Since the research design was cross-sectional, the researchers were unable to demonstrate a causal relationship.

Melanoma:

Other relatively recent studies, too, have provided evidence of the benefits of vitamin D in melanoma, such as the association of vitamin D with less aggressive melanoma.

“These earlier studies back our new findings from the North Savo region here in Finland. However, the question about the optimal dose of oral vitamin D for its beneficial effects remains to be answered. Until we know more, national intake recommendations should be followed,” Professor of Dermatology and Allergology Ilkka Harvima of the University of Eastern Finland notes.

Conclusion:

From above, it concluded that Vitamin D supplementation does not lower the risk of skin cancer. While adequate vitamin D levels are important for overall health, taking large amounts of vitamin D supplements is not a proven method for preventing skin cancer. In fact, excessive sun exposure, a major source of vitamin D, increases the risk of skin cancer. It's best to get vitamin D from a balanced diet and limited sun exposure rather than relying on supplements. Vitamin D supplementation does not reduce the risk of skin cancer. While vitamin D is important for overall health and can help prevent other types of cancer, there is no evidence that it reduces the risk of skin cancer. In fact, excessive sun exposure, a major source of vitamin D, increases the risk of skin cancer.

Tuesday 3 January 2023

Chinese Skin Care Routine

 

Chinese skincare routines often involve a multi-step process that includes cleansing, toning, essence, serum, and moisturizing. Many Chinese skincare products also incorporate traditional Chinese medicinal herbs into their formulations. Some popular Chinese skincare ingredients include ginseng, green tea, and jade. It is believed that these ingredients can help improve skin health and reduce the signs of aging. Some Chinese skincare routines also include facial massage and facial acupuncture as part of their regimen.

Chinese skincare routines can vary greatly depending on the specific region and culture in China, as well as an individual's personal preferences. However, some common practices in Chinese skin care include:


Double cleansing: This involves using an oil-based cleanser to remove makeup and excess oil, followed by a water-based cleanser to remove any remaining impurities.

Exfoliating: Some people in China use physical exfoliants, such as scrubs or brushes, to remove dead skin cells and improve the skin's texture. Others may use chemical exfoliants, such as alpha hydroxy acids or beta hydroxy acids, to achieve the same result.

Applying toner: Toner is used to balancing the skin's pH and prepare it for the next steps in the skincare routine. In China, toners are often formulated with ingredients such as green tea, licorice, and rice water.


Applying essence: Essences are lightweight, watery products that are used to hydrate and nourish the skin. In China, essences are often made with ingredients like ginseng and ceramides.

Applying serums and treatments: These products are used to target specific skin concerns, such as acne, dark spots, or fine lines and wrinkles.

Applying eye cream: Eye cream is used to moisturize and nourish the delicate skin around the eyes. In China, eye creams are often formulated with ingredients like green tea and ginseng.

Applying moisturizer: Moisturizer is used to hydrate and protect the skin. In China, moisturizers are often made with ingredients like shea butter and camellia oil.

Applying sunscreen: Sunscreen is important for protecting the skin from the harmful effects of UV rays. In China, sunscreens are often formulated with physical blockers, such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide.

It's important to note that everyone's skin is different, so it's important to find a skincare routine that works for your specific skin type and concerns.

 

 

 

Skin Care & Causes that damage the Skin

 

You can do many simple things to take care of your skin and keep it looking healthy. Here are a few skincare hacks:

A life hack (or life hacking) is any trick, shortcut, skill, or novelty method that increases productivity and efficiency, in all walks of life. The term was primarily used by computer experts who suffer from information overload or those with a playful curiosity in the ways they can accelerate their workflow in ways other than programming.

  • Cleanse your skin twice a day (morning and night) to remove dirt, oil, and makeup.
  • Use a toner after cleansing to help balance your skin's p
    H.
  • Apply a serum with antioxidants to help protect your skin from free radicals.
  • Use an eye cream to moisturize the delicate skin around your eyes.
  • Moisturize your skin to keep it hydrated and supple.
  • Exfoliate your skin a few times a week to remove dead skin cells and reveal radiant, healthy skin.
  • Protect your skin from the sun by using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30.
  • Get plenty of sleep and drink plenty of water to help keep your skin looking its best.
  • Eat a healthy, balanced diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats.
  • Avoid smoking and limit your alcohol consumption, as these can both be damaging to your skin.

There are several causes of skin damage:

Virtually everything affects the skin. Luckily, there are things around us that benefit the skin as well. Consider the harmful factors that age your skin and what you can do about them to maintain healthy and beautiful skin.

Causes:

  • Sun exposure: Prolonged and excessive exposure to the sun's UV rays can damage the skin, leading to sunburn, hyperpigmentation, and even skin cancer.
  • Environmental pollution: Pollutants in the air and water can damage the skin, leading to inflammation, dryness, and premature aging.
  • Chemical products: Some skincare and makeup products contain harsh chemicals that can irritate and damage the skin.
  • Smoking: Smoking damages the skin by reducing blood flow, leading to dryness, wrinkles, and a pale, unhealthy complexion.
  • Alcohol consumption: Alcohol can dehydrate the skin, leading to dryness and premature aging.
  • Poor nutrition: A diet low in nutrients can lead to poor skin health and premature aging.
  • Hormonal changes: Hormonal fluctuations, such as those that occur during pregnancy or menopause, can cause changes in the skin.
  • Stress: Stress can lead to inflammation, which can damage the skin.
  • Lack of sleep: Not getting enough sleep can lead to dull, tired-looking skin.
  • Poor skincare routine: Neglecting to cleanse, moisturize, and protect the skin can lead to damage.