Pregnancy and Skin

A woman’s body changes dramatically when she is expecting, and her skin follows suit. We frequently see skin issues in pregnant women in our office. Stretch marks, or striae, are one of the most common and nearly inevitable results of pregnancy. Although they are nearly impossible to avoid, there are some treatments available post-pregnancy and post-breastfeeding. For stretch marks that are pink or red, dermatologists can use lasers to bring them back to flesh-colored. Topical retinoids may be helpful for treatment (but remember—retinoids should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding). In some cases, fractional laser treatments may show improvement. Although nothing has been medically proven to prevent these marks, mild to moderate exercise and moisturizing may be helpful. Brown blotchy spots on the face often occurs and is known as the “mask of pregnancy” or melasma. Production of pigment is increased in pregnancy, and many women find that they will develop these patches. Diligent sunscreen use is key in preventing these spots. Post-pregnancy and breastfeeding, your dermatologist has a host of tools she/he can use to try to lighten these spots, including prescription bleaching creams, chemical peels, and intense pulsed light treatments. As a result of increased pigment production, other areas on the body, such as freckles, moles, nipples, areolas, and labia, can become even darker. Any mole that is changing should be examined by a dermatologist as skin cancers like melanoma can develop at any time. Many women find that they develop or have worsening of their acne during pregnancy, due to increased oil production from hormones. It’s important to see your dermatologist for a good treatment regimen, as many prescription and over the counter medications for acne contain ingredients that are not considered safe for use in pregnancy. For example, benzoyl peroxide, which is a common ingredient in many acne cleansers, is a category C medication, which is usually not recommended in pregnancy. Varicose veins and spider veins often appear on the legs during or post pregnancy. A combination of increased blood flow and volume, leaky valves in the veins, and genetics often accounts for the formation of veins. Prevention includes avoidance of standing or sitting for long periods of time, walking, elevating your legs, wearing support stockings, and avoiding excessive weight gain. Pregnancy is a wonderful time, but sometimes can leave your skin less than perfect. See us at SBD today for a new, improved you.

Acne and Food: Fact or Fiction?

There’s been a lot of talk lately about the effects of food on acne. While some stress that no foods have been proven to cause acne, others disagree. The lack of certain foods and vitamins in the diet may be associated with the worsening of acne. Acne is a disorder of increased oil production (sebum) in the hair follicle unit, under hormonal influence. Inflammation plays a key role in creating the “whiteheads” and pimples. Milk contains many hormones that may influence sebum production, so a high milk diet may be unadvisable. The Vitamin B group may be lacking in many Americans’ diets. Vitamin B3 has been shown to decrease inflammation. Vitamin B5 deficiency may have and influence on the hormones that trigger the development of acne. Vitamin B5 is commonly found in foods such as eggs, liver, pork, beef, chicken, pork, milk, potatoes, brewer’s yeast, whole wheat, peas, beans and other fresh vegetables. Vitamin A is a powerful antioxidant and reduces oil production. Many of the most effective acne treatments, such as accutane and topical retinoids, are vitamin A derivatives. However, it is important not to consume more than the recommended daily allowance, as an excess of vitamin A can be detrimental to one’s heath, especially in pregnant women. Vitamin A is in beets, carrots, spinach, apricots, mangoes, raspberries and oranges. Vitamin C has been found to enhance the action of vitamin A and is also essential for your immune system and collagen production. Citrus fruits, tomatoes, strawberries, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, asparagus, cabbage, and peas are good sources of vitamin C. Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant, normalizes sebum levels, decreases inflammation, decreases androgens (high levels of which are associated with acne production), and also regulates Vitamin A levels within the body. Sources of Vitamin E include almonds, corn, eggs and leafy green vegetables. Lack of zinc, found in oysters, beans, red meat, and poultry, may play a role in the development of acne. Zinc helps regulate oil glands, is an antioxidant, and helps wound healing. Chromium reduces rates of skin infection, may help regulate blood sugar levels and improve acne. Chromium is typically found in molasses and brewer’s yeast. Selenium is an antioxidant and may be related to the prevention of cancer. In combination with vitamins A and E, selenium may help improve acne. Plant foods, tuna, and cod provide selenium in our diets. Not everyone who has acne (especially teens) will seek out and eat the variety of foods required to add all of these vitamins and minerals so a daily multivitamin and a generally healthy diet can help restore vitamin levels. Of course, Dr. Bilu Martin and Dr. Mandy have many additional tools available to improve acne that has not responded to diet or home remedies. In the end, controversy over the influence of diet and supplements still exists, but good dietary habits won’t hurt! Visit us at SBD.

Sculptra approval

Sculptra Aesthetic has just been approved by the FDA for the correction of shallow to deep nasolabial folds (smile lines)and other facial wrinkles. Sculptra works gradually to offer natural-looking results that can last up to two years. Both Dr. Bilu Martin and Dr. Mandy are experienced in Scupltra injections. Call South Beach Dermatology today for your cosmetic consultation: 305-672-1233.