There is a condition that affects the immune system and results in hair loss on the scalp and body called alopecia areata. Alopecia areata affects millions of Americans and these numbers continue to rise. Our team of board certified dermatologists here at Knoxville Dermatology Group believes awareness and education about skin diseases such as alopecia areata are essential are not only to its proper management, but also to overall healthy skin.

About alopecia areata
According to the National Alopecia Areata Foundation, alopecia areata affects approximately two percent of the population, including more than 4.7 million people in the United States alone. Alopecia areata usually starts with one or more small, round, smooth patches on the scalp and can progress to total scalp hair loss (alopecia totalis) or complete body hair loss (alopecia universalis).This common skin disease is highly unpredictable and cyclical; hair can grow back in or fall out again at any time, as the disease course is different for each person.

How does alopecia areata occur?
Current evidence suggests that alopecia areata is caused by an abnormality in the immune system. This particular abnormality leads to autoimmunity. As a result, the immune system attacks certain tissues of the body such as the hair follicles, disrupting normal hair formation. Biopsies of affected skin show immune cells inside of the hair follicles where they are not normally present; however, what causes this is unknown.Sometimes alopecia areata can be found among family members, thus linking this condition to heredity.

Who is affected by alopecia areata?
Alopecia areata occurs most often in children, teens, and young adults. However, it can also affect older individuals and sometimes toddlers. This condition affects males and females equally.

Diagnosis and Treatment
The characteristic “exclamation point” hair signals presence of alopecia areata. Found in areas of hair loss and visible with a hand lens, these short, broken off hairs are narrower closer to the scalp (appearing like an exclamation point). A biopsy of the scalp is sometimes necessary for a diagnosis.

As with many chronic disorders for which there is no single treatment, a variety of remedies are promoted, but results vary by person. Furthermore, there is no known effective method of prevention, although the elimination of emotional stress is helpful. Research has not found any drugs or hair-care products associated with the onset of alopecia areata.

Flare-Ups in Existing Conditions
It has been observed by dermatologists that prolonged, intermittent direct pressure of the hair bearing areas causes patchy loss of alopecia, which mostly recovers when the continuous pressure source is removed. This can occur when wearing a tight-fitted helmet or resting the head/neck against something for long periods of time. The direct pressure is damaging the hair germinal cells and producing auto antibodies against them, which further aggravates the problem.

Evidently, mobile phones’ radio waves produce an inflammatory reaction in the skin and thus cause damage to the hair germs in the matrix. This triggers the auto immune mechanism that results in patchy hair loss.

What You Can Do

• Do not apply contact irritants as this may cause further worsening, and, sometimes cause permanent scarring if the reaction is severe.
• Find the cause (posture, stress, etc.) and remove it if possible.
• Wear lotion and a high SPF sunscreen everyday to prevent exposure to unhealthy rays. Also wear hats and accessories for additional protection.
• Keep educating yourself about this condition so you can manage it properly.

To best address the skin needs for those afflicted with alopecia areata, routine visits with a dermatologist is recommended. Not only will they assess the skin’s condition, but also are able to provide patients with advice for proper skin care. The board certified dermatologists of Knoxville Dermatology Group understand how challenging living with alopecia areata can be. However, their knowledge and attention to patient needs is conducive to proper management.

Schedule an appointment today with one of our board certified physicians to gain more knowledge about your skin so it can reach its fullest, healthiest potential!

Is what you put on your plate as important as what you put on your skin? YES! Physicians, health experts and dermatologists alike agree that skin health is reflective of our diet. Therefore, diets rich in vitamins and antioxidants are more likely to reveal a clear, smooth and vibrant complexion.  This blog will explore exactly which foods are best (and worst) for skin so you can reassess your diet and make changes if necessary. At Knoxville Dermatology Group, the health of your skin is our number one priority. We hope informative articles such as this enhances your skin health knowledge, so you can take a more pro-active approach to your skin care.

Skin that is dry, dull, sallow and even slow to repair itself is an indication of a weak diet. When your diet lacks variety of fruits, vegetables, proteins and carbohydrates then it will show in your appearance, namely the skin.  Health experts emphasize the importance of eating a balanced diet not only to support skin’s appearance, but to ward off illness and disease. So what foods are best for skin and why?

Low-Fat Dairy Products- Yogurt
The health of our skin cells is dependent on dietary vitamin A, often found in dairy products.  Furthermore, low-fat yogurt is highly recommended as it is also high in acidophilus, the “live” bacteria that is good for intestinal health.  These live bacteria and enzymes promote normal digestion which is strongly tied to healthy-looking skin.                                                                                                                                                                                          

Fruit- Blackberry, Blueberry, Strawberry, Plum
These “fab four” fruits have the highest “total antioxidant capacity” of any food according to studies.  These fruits contain antioxidants and phytochemicals that protect skin cells from damage to their DNA. For instance, free radicals formed from sun exposure can contribute to cell disintegration and premature aging. However, antioxidants and phytochemicals serve as a guard and block these effects, thus helping skin retain its youth.

Essential Fatty Acids- Salmon, Walnuts, Canola Oil, Flax Seed
Cell membranes are important because they hold water in; the stronger that barrier is the better cells can hold moisture, thus allowing skin to appear supple and plump.  Essential fatty acids are necessary to maintain a healthy cell membrane.  A balance of essential fatty acids omega 3 and omega 6 aids skin health. Since many people lack omega 3s, incorporating more fish, walnut and flax seed oil is recommended.

Eating good-quality oils is another way to keep skin well lubricated. Oils labeled cold pressed, expeller processed, or extra virgin are the best choices. Keep in mind, any fat is high in calories so limit consumption to two tablespoons per day.      

Selenium-Rich Foods
The mineral selenium present in whole-wheat bread, cereals; turkey, tuna and Brazil nuts play a key role in health of skin cells.  Studies shown in the American Academy of Dermatology indicate skin damaged by sun may suffer fewer consequences when selenium levels are high. In addition, skin cells with high levels of selenium are less likely to suffer from oxidative damage- often linked to the risk of cancer.

Avoid foods that contain white-flour, sugar and white rice. All these items can affect insulin levels, thus causing inflammation and break outs.

Water

Proper hydration is vital to our skin cells. Not only does water hydrate cells, but it helps cells move nutrients in and toxins out. This is pertinent to overall health and helps skin look clean and clear.

Although it is recommended we drink around eight glasses of water each day, the type of water is equally important to amount. Do not shy away from hard water, as it is high in minerals. Soft water may taste better, but it loses the health benefits because it has been de-mineralized.

Schedule an appointment today with one of our board certified physicians to gain more knowledge about your skin so it can reach its fullest, healthiest potential!

Benzoyl Peroxide is one of the most commonly prescribed anti-acne ingredients. However, regular use of benzoyl peroxide may be the source of possible skin problems. Knoxville Dermatology Group encourages you to learn more about active ingredients, such as benzoyl peroxide, found in many skin care products.

What is Benzoyl Peroxide?
Benzoyl Peroxide is medication used to treat mild to moderate acne. When applied to the skin, benzoyl peroxide works by reducing the amount of acne-causing bacteria and by causing the skin to dry and peel.  There are many benzoyl peroxide products available; many can be purchased without a prescription. However, a dermatologist should recommend the appropriate products upon assessment of skin.

The Pros
Clears Acne Fast
Benzoyl peroxide clears blemishes fast by killing acne-causing bacteria.  Products that contain lower concentrations are as effective as those with higher concentrations.  Thus, skin does not have to endure dryness to achieve desired results.

Acts as an Anti-Inflammatory Agent
According to a study published in Cosmetic Dermatology, benzoyl peroxide reduces oxygen in the skin and bacteria in the pore. Moreover, the ingredient works to reduce inflammation within the blemish.

The Cons
Causes Dehydration and Premature Aging
Benzoyl peroxide causes irritation, namely dryness, which in turn ages skin. Vigilant use of moisturizers can help this drawback.

Can Lead to Hyperpigmentation
Post inflammatory hyperpigmentation is characteristic of acne and benzoyl peroxide adds to its severity. Hyperpigmentation is especially severe for people of medium to dark skin tones.

Induces Sun Damage
Because benzoyl peroxide cleans the pore, it thins the skin increasing susceptibility to sun damage.

Common Side Effects
Dryness and peeling; skin that feels tight. Redness may occur.

How to Use It
Dermatologists agree the key with benzoyl peroxide is moderation. It was invented as a product for short-term use, thus users should take heed and scale back use.  If side effects are still an issue, there are many other agents, like salicylic acid and retinol that work just as well.

SkinSchool is your go-to source for all things related to skin and dermatology.

Did you know skin is your body’s largest organ? Adults carry some 8 pounds and 22 square feet of it! Healthy skin is very important to your overall well-being. Skin does so much more than simply make us look presentable-it serves as a waterproof shield and insulation against extreme temperatures, damaging sunlight and harmful chemicals. It also exudes antibacterial substances that prevent infection and manufactures vitamin D for converting calcium into healthy bones. Skin is also a huge sensor packed with nerves that keep the brain in touch with the outside world. At the same time, skin allows us free movement, proving itself an amazingly versatile organ.

Healthy skin is very important to your overall well-being, and we’re here to help you take care of it.