SkinFitnessFacts.com News

I came across some information about oxybenzone, an active ingredient in different varieties of sun block. While oxybenzone is deemed safe by the Skin Cancer Foundation, a few studies have shown that there may be a correlation with hormone disruption.

The body misinterprets the chemical to be a hormone. Its even possible that the body could think the chemical is estrogen, which is not good for melasma. Estrogen is one of the reasons why we have melasma in the first place.

So what does this mean for us melasma sufferers who are emphatic about wearing sun block and serious about keeping our estrogen levels down? Unfortunately, its not real clear.

But to me, it’s not worth taking any risks so I won’t be using sun block containing oxybenzone any time soon. Here are a few sun blocks that do not contain oxybenzone, including my favorite tried and true, DDF Organic Sun Protection.

Here’s one you hopefully haven’t heard before: Ichthyosis.

Ichthyosis is a rare genetic condition that affects the skin. Those that have it will notice areas of extremely dry, scaly skin. The skin can become very thick too.

Ichthyosis is not caused by a germ, virus, or bacteria so therefore it is not contagious, but those that suffer from it often feel embarrassment and concern just like those with eczema, psoriasis, and other noticeable skin conditions. Ichthyosis is normally diagnosed based on prevalence among family members and the amount of patchy, dry skin all over the body.

There is no cure only treatments for ichthyosis. While there are emollients and skin care treatments available over the counter and of the do-it-yourself fashion, it’s highly recommended you see a dermatologist to help come up with a treatment plan.

For more information visit the Foundation for Ichthyosis and Related Skin Types. And for more skin facts, check back with Skin Fitness Facts every Thursday.

You may remember my recent post about drinking herbal teas to clear up acne where I mentioned that turmeric is one of many acne-clarifying herbs and spices. Well, it turns out turmeric is great for treating melasma too.

Turmeric has antioxidant properties, and it has been found to slow down melanin production. So, in addition to drinking tea spiced with turmeric, try applying a turmeric paste directly to your skin to treat pigmentation problems, such as melasma.

Traditionally, turmeric is used a spice in different Indian dishes. It is yellow in color and is soft and powdery to the touch. When choosing to apply it to your skin, add a sprinkling of lemon juice and water to create a paste. Cleanse the skin, pat dry, and then apply the mixture to the areas of your face you want treated. Let it sit for 10 minutes, rinse, and moisturize.

Like with any new skin care regimen, test a small area of your skin first and see how your skin reacts. If within a day or two you have no adverse reaction to the treatment (i.e., no redness, no bumps, no itchiness), then apply it to your face. Start out using the mixture once every three days for a week, then once every two days for a week, and then once every day for one week.

Be sure to take pictures of your skin as you go through this process. Before committing yourself to the regimen long term, you need to be sure it is actually working.

There are professional products that will give you more bang (and more buck too, of course). One of my favorites is  Juara Skincare Turmeric Antioxidant Facial Mask. While I’ve only used it on a few occasions, I do like the way it makes my skin feel, and I have noticed some of my smaller spots fading. With persistence and my own do-it-yourself turmeric treatment, I’m confident I’ll see more results, but I’ll keep you posted.