Latest news with #AAD
The Sun
a day ago
- Health
- The Sun
The 5 ‘silent' cancer signs you might miss on your nails – plus the ‘diamond gap test' & other deadly hand clues
IF you love a bit of sun, you might know to check your skin for worrying moles, blemishes and marks. But did you know that the deadly skin cancer, melanoma, can develop in obscure places? On or around your nails. Here's how to spot the lesser-known signs. With the Met Office predicting temperatures could hit 30C in places this weekend, it's not just new or evolving moles you need to look out for, but warning signs in your fingernails and toenails too. Dr Magnus Lynch, consultant dermatologist, tells Sun Health: "Changes in your fingernails can be an early warning sign of cancer. "This is because nails reflect what's going on inside the body, including how it's using oxygen and nutrients, and fighting disease." Melanoma is the fifth most common cancer in the UK, and rates are steadily rising, according to Cancer Research UK. It's usually caused by UV light from the sun, which can damage the DNA in skin cells and trigger abnormal growth. And though it's rare for skin cancer - including melanoma - to develop under and around your fingernails and toenails, it does happen. It tends to be more common in people of colour, and if you're older, according to the American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD). You could also be at risk if you have a family history of melanoma or you've injured your nails in the past. There are five signs to watch out for on and around your nails that could indicate you have melanoma. Dr Leyla Hannbeck, chief executive of the Association of Independent Multiple Pharmacies, adds: "While not all these symptoms mean cancer, it's important to get them checked out, as early detection is crucial." 1. A dark streak This may look like a brown or black band on your nail, the AAD said. It's most likely to show up on the thumb or big toe of your dominant hand or foot. However, the discolouration could develop on any one of your nails. A woman recently took to TikTok to recount how a 'cool' nail streak she'd had for 10 years - which looked like a brown line painted across her nail - turned out to be a sign of subungual melanoma. People who have melanoma under their nail may wrongly believe they just have bruising, or not even notice a change at all. Aside from a line, it can also look like irregular pigmentation under the nail. Maria Sylvia revealed that her own dark streak grew from the nailbed, where a cancerous mole sat. 2. Your nail lifting from your fingers or toes You might think you've just stubbed your toe, but a nail peeling or lifting off from the skin might be the sign of something more sinister, according to the AAD. It explained: "When this happens, your nail starts to separate from the nail bed. "The white free edge at the top of your nail will start to look longer as the nail lifts." 3. Your nail splitting 4 Your nail splitting down the middle is yet another possible sign of melanoma. This is because the cancer can weaken the nail plate, causing it to crack or split, according to the Cleveland Clinic. 4. A bump or nodule under your nails Pay attention if you notice something bumpy under your nail. You might also see a band of colour on your nail. It could be wide and irregular or dark and narrow, the American Academy of Dermatology explains. 5. Thick nail A thickened bit under your nail could be a warning sign of a rare genetic condition that raises the risk of several cancers, a study published last year found. The disorder, called BAP1 tumour predisposition syndrome, affects a gene that normally helps stop cells from growing out of control and turning cancerous. It also plays a key role in fixing damaged DNA. People with the condition face a higher risk of tumours in the skin - like melanoma - eyes, kidneys, and the lining of the chest and abdomen. What to do if your nails look dodgy Nail melanoma is often diagnosed at a more advanced stage than melanoma on the skin, according to the AAD. It advised you to see a dermatologist if you notice changes to your nails. "The good news is that when found early, melanoma - even on the nails - is highly treatable," the AAD said. So it's useful to know what to look for and to regularly check your nails. Laura Harker, a screening nurse at The MOLE Clinic, advised to also keep an eye on other less obvious areas, such as your hairline, behind the ears, the soles of your feet and your arms. There are two main types of skin cancer. Non-melanoma skin cancers are diagnosed a combined 147,000 times a year in the UK, while melanoma, the most serious type of skin cancer, is diagnosed 17,500 times a year. According to Cancer Research UK, one in 35 men and one in 41 women in the UK will now be diagnosed with melanoma skin cancer in their lifetime. GP Dr Philippa Kaye told Sun Health: 'It's important to know your body and become familiar with your moles and skin and what they look like, so you will recognise if something changes,' 'See a doctor if you notice a mole is changing, which can be in colour, size, appearance but also in sensation - so if a mole is bleeding, crusty or becomes sore or itchy.' Your GP will likely use the ABCDE mnemonic to help tell if a mole is cancerous or not, and you can use it at home too. Get a loved one to help you check your WHOLE body - including the bits you can't see - and don't forget to return the favour! Asymmetrical – melanomas usually have two very different halves and are an irregular shape Border – melanomas usually have a notched or ragged border Colours – melanomas will usually be a mix of two or more colours Diameter – most melanomas are usually larger than 6mm in diameter Enlargement or elevation – a mole that changes size over time is more likely to be a melanoma What your hands can reveal about your health Your hands can tell you a lot about the state of your health. From what a weak handshake means for your ticker, to how the length of your fingers may indicate a cancer risk, they are able to reveal quite a bit. GP Dr Sarah Garsed says: 'We often start with the hands for examinations when patients come to us. "We can tell huge amounts from them, so any change to your hands that is prolonged, we recommend you get it checked by your GP.' Here we look at everything you should be on the lookout for: 1. Enlarged fingertips Sudden growth in your fingertips could be a reason to seek advice on your respiratory health. Dr Garsed says: 'This symptom is basically an increase in the tissue around the ends of the fingers. 'This is not something you should ignore as it can be a sign that you have low oxygen in your blood. 'Low oxygen in the blood is always a red flag as it can indicate early signs of lung disease and is something that can be checked with a simple blood test by your GP.' 2. Weak grip A weak handshake has long had associations with nervousness or being a bit of a wimp – but it could signal something much more significant. In fact, a feeble grip has been linked to a shorter life expectancy and a higher risk of cognative decline and dementia. A nationwide study published in the British Medical Journal found that those who develop a weak hold in midlife have a 20 per cent higher risk of death from heart and respiratory diseases and cancer. 3. Long index fingers The length of your fingers can give indications about your health – especially if you are male. A study by the International Journal of Medical Sciences found that if an index finger is much longer than the ring finger, it can be a sign of coronary artery disease. However, men whose index fingers are the same length or longer than their ring fingers are 33 per cent less likely to be diagnosed with prostate cancer, according to a 2010 study published in the British Journal of Cancer. 4. Red, white or blue fingers Fingers that turn white, red or blue can suggest poor circulation. Often a change in temperature from hot to cold, or exposure to long periods of chilly temperatures, causes the colour change, but extreme stress or trauma can also bring it on. Dr Garsed says: 'Regular bouts of extreme colour change in the fingers show your circulation is not functioning correctly and is usually a sign of Raynaud's disease. 'A lack of adequate blood supply is what causes the fingers to go white or blue, while a sudden return of circulation of blood to the area is what causes redness and swelling." 5. Little red rash Small red bumps or blisters on your hands or wrists can point towards a food allergy. Sensitivity to nickel – traces of which are found in foods including beans and legumes, chocolate, peanuts, soy, oatmeal and granola – is a common allergy. If you experience any persistent rashes on your hands, it could be a sign. Dr Garsed says: 'You can easily find out if you do have the allergy by simply cutting out foods with nickel in them and seeing if your rash disappears.' 6. Finger clubbing You might think signs of lung cancer - one of the most common and serious types of the disease - would only show up in your breathing. But a less common sign of the disease can affect your fingers - and a simple test you can perform at home could reveal if you are at risk of lung cancer. All you need to do is take the 'diamond gap' finger test, also known as the Schamroth window test. This involves placing your nails together to see if there's a diamond-shaped space between your cuticles. If there isn't a space, this is a sign of what's called finger clubbing, when the tips of your fingers become rounded and bulbous. According to the Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation, about 35 per cent of people who have non-small cell lung cancer have finger clubbing and 4 per cent of those with small cell lung cancer. Non-small cell is the most common form of the disease and makes up about 85 per cent of cases, NHS guidance said. Small cell is the less common variety which spreads faster. Finger clubbing happens in stages and can take years to develop, according to Cancer Research UK. It usually affect the fingers on both your hands, but you might see it on your toes too.
Medscape
a day ago
- Health
- Medscape
AAD Updates AD Guidelines With Four New Treatment Picks
The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recently issued a focused update to its guidelines on the management of atopic dermatitis (AD) in adults, strongly recommending four recently approved therapies: tapinarof cream, roflumilast cream, lebrikizumab, and nemolizumab (in combination with topical therapy). These additions reflect high-certainty evidence supporting both efficacy and safety, according to the workgroup's systematic review published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology . Robert Sidbury, MD Asked to comment on the updates, one of the authors, Robert Sidbury, MD, cochair of the guideline committee and chief of dermatology at Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, called the rapid need for a guideline update 'a reflection of the extraordinary progress in AD care that is ongoing and is indeed revolutionizing care.' Having 'two new nonsteroidal topical therapies is quite significant,' he added in an interview with Medscape Dermatology . 'Patients have long been dissatisfied with topical options, which have been shackled by safety concerns, some real, some not, and intolerance, such as application site stinging.' The update comes just over a year after the release of AAD's 2023-2024 adult AD guidelines on treatment with topical and systemic therapies, underscoring the rapid pace of therapeutic development for AD. The update was initiated following the FDA approval of multiple new therapies and newly published high-certainty evidence supporting their use, prompting the AAD to incorporate this data into its existing guidance, according to the authors. Strong Recommendations for Four New Agents The guideline workgroup applied the GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation) framework to assess new data and formulate treatment recommendations. According to the authors, all four therapies received 'strong' recommendations based on high-certainty evidence: Tapinarof cream 1% : A nonsteroidal aryl hydrocarbon receptor agonist approved in 2024 for moderate to severe AD. In four trials (n = 1169), once-daily use over 8-12 weeks resulted in statistically and clinically significant improvements in investigator's global assessment (IGA), eczema area and severity index (EASI)-75, and itch scores. : A nonsteroidal aryl hydrocarbon receptor agonist approved in 2024 for moderate to severe AD. In four trials (n = 1169), once-daily use over 8-12 weeks resulted in statistically and clinically significant improvements in investigator's global assessment (IGA), eczema area and severity index (EASI)-75, and itch scores. Roflumilast cream 0.15% : A phosphodiesterase-4 inhibitor approved in 2024 for mild to moderate AD. Clinical trials (n = 1427) demonstrated significant improvements in IGA and EASI-75 after 4 weeks. : A phosphodiesterase-4 inhibitor approved in 2024 for mild to moderate AD. Clinical trials (n = 1427) demonstrated significant improvements in IGA and EASI-75 after 4 weeks. Lebrikizumab : An interleukin (IL)-13-targeting monoclonal antibody approved in 2024 for moderate to severe AD. In over 1700 patients, treatment with or without topical corticosteroids led to marked improvements in clinical and patient-reported outcomes. : An interleukin (IL)-13-targeting monoclonal antibody approved in 2024 for moderate to severe AD. In over 1700 patients, treatment with or without topical corticosteroids led to marked improvements in clinical and patient-reported outcomes. Nemolizumab (with topical therapy): An IL-31 receptor inhibitor approved in 2024 for patients aged 12 years or older inadequately controlled with topical therapies. In three trials (n = 1256), nemolizumab plus topical corticosteroids (with or without topical calcineurin inhibitor) led to significant reductions in itch and improvements in EASI-75 and Dermatology Life Quality Index. Updated Treatment Algorithm The guideline includes an updated treatment algorithm to help clinicians integrate these agents into clinical practice. It emphasizes: All four newly recommended therapies are indicated with strong recommendation symbols in the updated algorithm figure. Real-World Considerations Sidbury emphasized that having multiple high-certainty options creates new opportunities but also new challenges in decision-making. 'Such choice is a lovely problem to have,' he said, but he urged clinicians to look beyond efficacy. For example, 'a patient with baseline ocular difficulties would want to be aware that IL-4/13 or IL-13 biologics can cause or exacerbate conjunctivitis,' he explained. 'Nemolizumab or a JAK inhibitor, neither of which carries ocular risk, might be a good choice. Similarly, patients with cardiovascular risk may want to avoid JAK inhibitors due to their boxed warning.' Treatment selection, he said, should be rooted in shared decision-making: 'It's important to weigh evidence alongside a patient's comorbidities, preferences, and tolerability history.' Remaining Gaps and Considerations Despite the promising data, the authors acknowledged important limitations. Most trials were short-term (≤ 24 weeks), and the long-term safety, durability of response, and comparative effectiveness of these agents remain unknown. Cost is another factor. The authors noted, 'costs for the considered therapies may be prohibitive without adequate insurance coverage.' As such, they stressed the importance of a shared decision-making process that weighs efficacy, safety, and affordability. Clinical Impact and Future Directions The update is expected to have an immediate impact in clinical settings. 'Atopic dermatitis care has long been an 'off-label' affair,' Sidbury said. 'Prior to 2017, the only FDA-approved systemic therapy for AD was systemic steroids. Since then, we've seen numerous novel topical and systemic therapies approved with many more on the way. Better evidence plus more choices equals improved outcomes.' Still, more research is needed. Sidbury pointed to the importance of identifying which therapies may work best for specific patient subtypes — by age, race, gender, or AD phenotype. 'We don't know yet, but the answer is likely yes. This gets at personalized medicine — and that's where we're headed,' he said, noting that future treatment may be guided by inflammatory signatures or genotyping. While this focused update offers valuable clarity on incorporating new treatment options for adult AD, further research is needed, according to the authors. The workgroup called for real-world data, head-to-head trials, and longer-term outcome studies. The authors also noted pediatric guideline updates are expected in a future publication. This study was funded in total by internal funds from the American Academy of Dermatology. Sidbury disclosed he serves as an advisory board member for Pfizer, receiving honoraria; as a principal investigator for Regeneron, receiving grants and research funding; as an investigator for Brickell Biotech, and Galderma USA, receiving grants and research funding; and as a consultant for Galderma Global and Microes, receiving fees or no compensation. Other authors reported having financial disclosures with many pharmaceutical companies. : Biologics, JAK inhibitors, and immunosuppressants remain key choices for refractory disease.
Yahoo
20-06-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
How much sunscreen do you actually need? Your summer SPF guide.
If summer had a signature scent, it would be sunscreen, but that doesn't necessarily mean everyone is applying it poolside, at the beach or before hopping out to pick up popsicles at the store. Here's why you should: While you're soaking up the warmer weather outside — or even just driving in your car or sitting near an office window — you're also being exposed to the sun's harmful ultraviolet rays. These rays can damage the DNA in your skin cells, which can lead to skin cancer. Skin cancer has been on the rise in the U.S. for years, with 1 in 5 people developing the disease by age 70, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. The good news? There's a simple and effective way to help reduce that risk, while also protecting against premature skin aging. Yep, it's sunscreen. So which SPF level should you use? How long does sunscreen last? And does SPF-infused makeup count as sun protection? We asked dermatologists these common questions and more. Here's everything you need to know about sunscreen and how to best protect your skin this summer and beyond. The SPF, or sun protection factor, measures how well sunscreen protects against sunburn, according to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). So how do the different levels of SPF measure up? According to the MD Anderson Cancer Center, an SPF 15 sunscreen blocks 93% of the sun's harmful UVB rays, and SPF 30 blocks 97%. Once you get higher than that, you're only getting a small boost in protection. For example, SPF 50 stops 98% of UVB rays, while SPF 100 blocks 99% of them. No sunscreen provides 100% protection from damaging UV rays. The AAD recommends using a broad-spectrum sunscreen — meaning it protects against both UVA rays (which prematurely age skin) and UVB rays (which cause sunburn) — with SPF 30 or higher. 'Above that can be helpful but the really profound cancer protection starts at SPF 30,' Dr. Daniel Butler, a dermatologist in Tucson, Ariz., tells Yahoo Life. The main differences are their ingredients and how they protect against the sun's rays. 'Chemical sunscreens,' such as avobenzone, oxybenzone and octinoxate, 'absorb UV rays, while mineral sunscreens — zinc oxide or titanium dioxide — act as a physical barrier preventing UV rays from hitting the skin,' Dr. Jason Miller, a dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group in Freehold, N.J., tells Yahoo Life. 'Both offer good protection.' However, chemical sunscreens can cause allergic reactions in some people. 'There is an increased chance of irritation and stinging due to the combination of multiple ingredients in order to provide both UVA and UVB protections,' Dr. Cula Svidzinski, a cosmetic dermatologist at Sadick Dermatology in New York City, tells Yahoo Life. Mineral (also known as physical) sunscreens, on the other hand, are naturally broad spectrum, blocking both UVA and UVB rays as well as blue light, says Svidzinski. While these sunscreens can leave a white cast — the minerals themselves are white and sit on top of the skin — the formulations have come a long way. Experts say that sunscreen should be an everyday habit. 'I recommend people use sunscreen daily in the morning and then reapply if they're deliberately out in the sun,' says Butler. But it's worth noting that even on overcast days, you're still exposed to some harmful UV rays. That's why Dr. Vicky Zhen Ren, assistant professor of dermatology at Baylor College of Medicine, tells Yahoo Life that sunscreen should be worn 'even on cold or cloudy days' and 'especially near reflective surfaces such as water, snow or sand.' Even if you're indoors, it's still a good idea to wear sunscreen since UV rays, specifically UVA, can penetrate windows, Dr. Marisa Garshick, a dermatologist in New York City and Englewood, N.J., tells Yahoo Life. 'It is also important to note that blue light may be emitted from computer screens and phones and can contribute to skin changes, and using sunscreen may help to protect the skin,' she says. Butler agrees, adding: 'While indoor and computer light are unlikely to cause cancerous changes, photoaging can still occur when indoors or when in front of a computer screen. Because of this, I recommend wearing sunscreen on the face if indoors or in front of a computer for extended periods of time.' 'In order to achieve the SPF on the label, you need about one shot glass of sunscreen — most people tend to use less,' says Miller. Ren adds that sunscreen should also be applied 15 minutes before going outside. And remember to slather it on commonly forgotten areas, such as the back of your ears, the back of your hands and the top of your feet, along with wearing lip balm with SPF 30 or higher. As one expert put it: 'Lip gloss that doesn't contain SPF is like applying baby oil to your lips.' In general, sunscreen lasts about two hours. If you're staying cool and dry indoors and aren't near any windows, you can stretch that to four to six hours, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. But sunscreen should be reapplied about every two hours if you're outdoors, more often if you're swimming or sweating. Water-resistant sunscreens can protect your skin, even when wet, for 40-80 minutes tops and then they need to be reapplied. (There's no such thing as waterproof or sweat-proof sunscreen so manufacturers are not allowed to make those claims, according to the Food and Drug Administration.) 'Even if you go for a high SPF sunscreen, you're not reaping the full benefits of that high SPF sunscreen unless you're thoroughly covering the sun-exposed areas and reapplying,' says Ren. Sunscreen doesn't last forever, so it's worth checking your cabinets and beach bags for expired products. FDA regulations require all nonprescription drugs, including sunscreen, to have an expiration date, though there's an exception to that rule if a manufacturer's stability testing shows the product will remain stable for at least three years. 'Many sunscreens include an expiration date,' says Svidzinski. 'If the sunscreen doesn't have an expiration date, write the date you bought it on the bottle and discard it three years later.' Not sure how old your sunscreen is? Discard it, per the FDA. Avoid leaving sunscreen in hot cars or in direct sunlight, which Garshick says can impact how effective it is. 'Leaving sunscreen in a hot car can make the preservatives break down, which can lead to colonization with bacteria or yeast,' explains Butler. You should also keep an eye out for changes in sunscreen color, smell or consistency. 'Signs that should make you throw it away is if it smells badly or if it's extra watery when it comes out,' he says. The most important factor in choosing the "right" sunscreen is selecting the recommended SPF of 30, says Svidzinski. 'After that, the 'right sunscreen' is the one that you are going to use,' she says. Butler tells his patients to try three or four different options before deciding on an everyday sunscreen that they're happy with. For those with sensitive skin, Garshick says it's best to opt for a mineral sunscreen 'as they tend to be less irritating and less likely to cause an allergic reaction.' Those with acne-prone skin 'should look for sunscreens that are non-comedogenic or oil-free to help minimize any potential for breakouts,' she says. For those with darker skin, Garshick says that chemical sunscreens may be preferred 'as they tend to absorb in easily without leaving a white cast.' However Svidzinski says that with the improved formulation of mineral sunscreens 'there are a lot more options for skin of color.' Garshick adds that tinted sunscreens are also an option to best match a specific skin tone. 'Sunscreen sprays and sticks can offer the same amount of protection as lotions if a proper amount is applied,' says Garshick. 'The issue for most sprays and sticks is people do not typically apply enough or do not apply an even coat so there are skip areas that may be at risk of burn. Sunscreen sprays are not bad for you but it is important to use them properly. Ultimately, some sunscreen is better than no sunscreen, but either way it is important to ensure enough sunscreen is applied.' However, some dermatologists recommend caution around using spray sunscreen. 'Sprays are popular due to their ease of use, however little is known about the effects of inhaling particles of sunscreen into the lungs, making it difficult to recommend their use,' Miller says. Butler adds that 'regarding spray sunscreens, if aerosolized, they may contain benzenes which, at high levels, can cause negative health impacts.' But if you're determined to use them, Svidzinski says it's 'essential to rub spray sunscreen in to ensure even coverage.' And given that there's some concern about inhalation, she recommends applying them in a well-ventilated area and avoiding spraying directly on the face. Dermatologists are mixed as to whether makeup and facial moisturizers with SPF offer enough sun protection. (Also worth noting: They only help protect your face — any other exposed skin needs sunscreen too.) 'These are great for everyday sun protection,' says Butler. 'Ideally, they would be SPF 30 or greater to ensure the cancer protection impact as well as the benefits of aging prevention.' However, Garshick says that even though a daily moisturizer or foundation with SPF may indicate that it provides sun protection, 'it is not typically considered enough because most often people do not apply a sufficient amount of moisturizer or foundation to get the amount of protection as indicated on the label.' Svidzinski agrees. 'SPF makeup is not a substitute for a stand-alone sunscreen,' she says. 'Daily moisturizer with a minimum SPF of 30 may be OK if your day consists of very little time outdoors.' But, she says, along with not putting on enough to provide full protection, you likely won't reapply SPF-infused makeup or moisturizer throughout the day. 'This is why I recommend using a dedicated physical sunscreen SPF 30 in addition to your moisturizer or makeup with SPF.' Although sunscreen typically gets the most attention, it isn't the only way to avoid harmful UV rays. There are other steps you can and should take, say experts — namely, seeking shade when the sun's rays are strongest. Typically, that's between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. 'But of course this may vary depending on your location,' says Ren, 'so more importantly, seek shade whenever your shadow is shorter than you.' Also, wear sun-protective clothing. This includes tightly woven, long-sleeved shirts and pants with Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF), wide-brimmed hats and large-framed sunglasses with UV protection, says Ren.
CNET
09-06-2025
- Health
- CNET
Can You Fix Sun Damage to Your Skin? We Asked the Experts
Summer is nearly here, with rising temperatures, outdoor adventures and greater danger to your skin. UV rays are the most potent during summer months, and if you aren't applying sunscreen, your skin could be taking serious damage. Sun damage can cause a variety of issues including wrinkles, discoloration and even skin cancer. If you're concerned about existing damage to your skin, a visit to the dermatologist for a skin check can put your mind at ease, but is there a good way to protect yourself from sun damage before it happens? Some of us choose to allow sun damage either by not wearing protection on a daily basis (despite the recommendation to wear SPF every day regardless of the weather) or by tanning. The American Academy of Dermatology firmly asserts there's no such thing as a "safe tan" because all forms of tanning result in skin damage. But there is some good news: There are effective methods to reverse the effects of sun damage. We consulted experts to uncover valuable insights about sun damage and how to address it. What exactly is sun damage? "Sun damage" is a catchall phrase that refers to any harm done to your skin by the sun. It manifests in several ways, said Dr. Susan Bard, a board-certified dermatologist at Manhattan Dermatology Specialists. "Sun damage can present as dark spots, aberrant blood vessels or ruddiness or with skin laxity and wrinkles," she said. "It can also present with precancerous skin lesions that feel like little scabs on the skin." Dr. Hadley King, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City, said sun damage often looks different across skin tones. "In lighter skin types, thinning of the skin, fine lines and discolorations will be apparent," she said. "In darker skin types, discolorations may be the most prominent feature of sun damage." The technical term for these changes is "photoaging." While most people know photoaging as the face of sun damage, other types of damage can occur, depending on which type of UV ray enters the skin. "UVA rays are generally linked to the aging of skin cells and tend to be the cause of wrinkles, sunspots and other signs of sun damage," King said. "UVB rays, on the other hand, are the principal cause of sunburns, directly damage DNA in skin cells and are linked to most skin cancers." It is also important to note that everyone is at risk of sun damage and, as a result, skin cancer. All ages, genders, ethnicities and skin colors are at risk of sun damage if exposed. Can you reverse sun damage? Getty Images Bard and King said it's possible to partially reverse — or a better word is "treat" — some types of sun damage. If you have wrinkles, fine lines, discoloration or other characteristics of photoaged skin, a dermatologist can help you address these types of sun damage. "It is possible to reverse (sun damage) to some extent utilizing lasers, chemical peels and certain topical medications to destroy dark spots and vessels, encourage collagen deposition and remove the damaged layers of skin," Bard said. She clarifies that combining multiple treatments is usually required to address the different components of sun damage. Certain at-home treatments may also help. King said humectants and emollients can hydrate and smooth the skin to keep it looking plump, which is particularly important for dry skin. Anti-aging topicals, such as retinoids, antioxidants, peptides and alpha-hydroxy acids can also help, she noted. Topical retinoids are the most proven anti-aging topical option, King said. These compounds are "very powerful and able to produce significant changes in the skin. They increase the turnover of skin cells, increase collagen production and decrease discoloration," as well as reduce pore clogging, she said. Your dermatologist can help you personalize a treatment catered to your specific needs. Not all damage is reversible While you can treat the aesthetic effects of sun damage, you unfortunately can't reduce or reverse DNA damage caused by the sun, Bard said. "Once DNA mutation has occurred due to UV irradiation, there is no way to undo that. The cell needs to be destroyed by an outside modality or by the body," she explains. UV radiation is a known human carcinogen, King said. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, your risk for melanoma doubles if you have more than five sunburns. Just one sunburn that blisters in childhood or during your teen years can more than double your risk of developing this deadly skin cancer later on. How to prevent sun damage Angela Lang/CNET Prevention is key for avoiding sun damage from both UVA and UVB rays. Daily protection is critical, King said, because "much of the sun damage that accumulates in our skin is the result of daily incidental sun exposure." King cited an Australian study that tracked the skin of people who used sunscreen daily, regardless of the weather or their daily activities. The researchers compared this to the skin of people who only used sunscreen on particularly sunny days or when they felt they would be spending significant time outside. The results? The skin of the people who used sunscreen every day aged significantly better. That is why you need sunscreen that is at least SPF 30. Make sure this is applied on exposed skin and reapplied according to package instructions. Even on a cloudy day, you should still wear sunscreen because clouds do not protect from skin damage and UV rays can still penetrate through. To further protect yourself, you can also wear wide-brim hats, sunglasses and clothing that covers and protects your skin. Never just wait until you see signs of sun damage to take care of your skin. Protecting yourself from UV rays is the best way to keep your skin young and healthy. Read more: 10 Sunscreen Myths to Stop Believing This Summer Tips to protect your skin from the sun King and Bard offer the following sun protection skin care tips:
Indian Express
01-06-2025
- General
- Indian Express
Military Digest: Army Air Defence, which has roots in World War II, gets well-deserved recognition after Operation Sindoor
One of the youngest arms of the Indian Army, the Corps of Army Air Defence (AAD) has been in the news during Operation Sindoor. At the forefront of interdicting Pakistani missiles and drones along with the Indian Air Force's air defence systems, the hitherto lesser-celebrated AAD has finally received its fair share of the limelight, and rightfully so. It was during the Second World War that air defence units were first deployed in India, primarily in Bengal and Assam, to counter the Japanese air threats to major cities and ports, such as Calcutta and Chittagong, from their advanced air bases in Burma. Official government handouts trace the origins of AAD back to 1939. 'In its true sense, the raising of the Corps of Army Air Defence began on 15 Sep 1940 when Number 1 Anti Aircraft Training Centre commenced its raising in Colaba (Mumbai) and was completed by Jan 1941 in Karachi,' a Press Information Bureau statement from January 20, 2023, reads. Initially a part of the Regiment of Artillery, it was carved out as a separate Corps in the mid-90s. According to a website giving out historical military information, the first Indian Anti-Aircraft Brigade was formed in February 1942 to assume command of the anti-aircraft units stationed in the Calcutta area. Its commander was Brigadier G P Thomas. 'On 1 February 1942, the 8th Battalion, 7th Rajput Regiment converted from an infantry role into an anti-aircraft role as was redesignated as the 7th Indian H.A.A. Regiment. The regiment joined this brigade on its formation, but was posted away to come under command of the 9th Anti-Aircraft Brigade in Assam in June 1943. The regiment also later served with the 13th Anti-Aircraft Brigade in the Arakan,' the website states. Another battalion of the Rajputana Rifles, the 9th Battalion of the 6th Rajputana Rifles, converted to the anti-aircraft regiment on May 1, 1942, and joined the second Indian Anti-Aircraft Brigade after completing its training. The second Indian Anti-Aircraft Brigade was formed in May 1942 to assume command of anti-aircraft units stationed in the Calcutta and Bengal areas. Brigadier Henry Herbert Montague Oliver was its commander. This Brigade was deployed to cover Calcutta and the Bengal airfields. 'By December 1944, all the units had been posted from the Brigade, although it remained on the order of battle for India Command until at least March 1945,' says the British military history website. The AAD has come a long way since the first battle inoculations of World War II. It was further blooded in the 1965 and 1971 wars with Pakistan, in which its regiments played a major role in the defence of airfields and vital installations. However, in recent years, adequate attention has been paid to the AAD as an arm. While there has been an upgradation of equipment, the induction of new weapon systems, and a re-visiting of old doctrines of air defence employment, the Corps as a whole has been treated as an adjunct rather than a key enabling element. The appointment of Lt Gen Nav Kumar Khanduri as the first AAD Army Commander a few years ago was a welcome development and was seen as an important step towards encouraging AAD officers to step out of the Corps and join the General Cadre. In the context of Operation Sindoor, Army Air Defence has distinguished itself with honour. In the new age of warfare, where drone attacks and anti-drone measures form a key part, the AAD will play a significant role.
