Latest news with #CadoganClinic
The Irish Sun
11-07-2025
- Health
- The Irish Sun
I'm a pharmacist – here's 10 easy ways to stop sweating (and yes, you can wear grey again)
IT looks like this week is set to be a scorcher. But warmer weather doesn't just mean beach days and barbecues - it can also be a total sweat-fest. Heat like this usually means sticky foreheads, clammy hands, and underarm stains for many of us. Advertisement 4 Warmer weather can lead to a total sweat-fest Credit: Getty Some parts of And with temperatures like that, it's no wonder we all wish we could just switch our sweat glands off! But 'As the body's internal temperature starts rising, the hypothalamus – a small region in your brain – tells eccrine sweat glands all over your body to begin cooling you down by producing sweat,' says Abbas Kanani, a pharmacist from Advertisement READ MORE ON SWEATING But there are ways to live with perspiration, without becoming a hot mess… What causes excess sweating? We all have a similar number of sweat glands (2-4 million, in fact!), but some have more active ones than others, for a range of reasons. SIZE & WEIGHT 4 Two people who may have the same body weight could have very different sweat rates Credit: Getty 'People who are bigger tend to generate more heat and sweat more. Advertisement Muscle mass also produces more heat than fat, so two people who may have the same body weight could have very different sweat rates,' says Abbas. Most read in Health HORMONES Fluctuations can be to blame (for example, during pregnancy or perimenopause). 'One example is hot flushes, where a dip in oestrogen can cause glands to release higher amounts of other hormones that affect the brain's thermostat and cause body temperature to fluctuate and sweat,' says Abbas. In pregnancy, as well as hormone shifts, there's also an increase in blood supply to the skin to contend with. Advertisement POOR FITNESS 4 Improving fitness levels can cut down on how much you sweat Credit: Getty - Contributor Sweating during exercise is natural, but people with lower fitness levels may actually sweat more because they use more energy to complete a task than a fitter person. Try gradually increasing how much you exercise – the Nike Training Club app can help you build up your fitness ( ILLNESS You may sweat more when you're unwell, as your immune system fights disease or infection. Advertisement HYPERHIDROSIS 4 See your GP if you've suffered excessive sweating for more than six months Credit: Getty - Contributor Around 1 per cent of Brits suffer from excessive sweating, AKA 'This is the result of over-stimulation of sweat glands,' says Hazim Sadideen, consultant plastic surgeon at Cadogan Clinic. 'Patients with primary hyperhidrosis, which is more common, are thought to have a higher than normal basal level of sweat production. Advertisement 'It has no known cause. 'Secondary hyperhidrosis occurs due to underlying medical conditions, such as hormone disorders or use of certain medications.' See your GP if you've suffered excessive sweating for more than six months. They may prescribe tablets or, in severe cases, surgery to remove sweat glands could be an option. HOW TO KEEP YOUR COOL These expert-approved tips should see you through summer, no sweat! These expert-approved tips should see you through summer, no sweat! 1 Drink up It might seem counterintuitive to drink more to avoid sweating, but fluids help keep your body cool, so it doesn't have to sweat as much to release extra heat. 'Dehydration can also lead to more sweating, as your body is working harder to stay functioning properly,' says personal trainer Tom Penn of F45 Training. 2 Cut The Fat 'Foods high in fat can cause your insides to warm up as your body processes it, resulting in increased sweat,' says Abbas. This includes chips, crisps, cakes and processed meats. Prioritise 'good fat' olive oil, which is rich in antioxidants, easy to digest, boosts metabolism and helps regulate sweat levels. 3 Swerve spice As you'd imagine, hot, spicy dishes can make you perspire more. Cool down with yoghurt, and go big on fruits and vegetables with a high water content instead. Try watermelon, grapes and broccoli to boost hydration. Caffeine can also increase sweat, so give decaf a go. 4 Wear deo at night 'Antiperspirants work by blocking the sweat ducts so sweat can't reach the surface of our skin,' explains Tom. 'For best results, apply this to clean, dry underarms before bed. The ingredients need time to create the block over the sweat duct and most people sweat less when in bed. Be patient with this method – it may not work immediately, but after a few nights you should start to see results the next day.' You could also speak to a pharmacist about trying stronger deodorants, such as Driclor and Perspirex. 5 Get a good kip Some studies have found links between sleep deprivation and heat regulation in the body being disrupted. 'If poor sleep is affecting hormone levels, and vice versa, it may trigger symptoms such as hot flushes, sweating and night sweats,' says Abbas. Aim to get seven to nine hours of kip a night by implementing a calming bedtime routine. Have a bath, dim the lights, avoid screens and write down anything that may be troubling you, so it's out of your mind. Hazim says night sweats could be serious if they are related to certain medical conditions (such as tuberculosis, some cancers or bone infections), so if you suddenly experience new night sweats, speak to your GP. 6 Check stress levels Stress can cause your body temperature to rise, triggering sweat glands to kick in – hence why you might get sweaty palms and feet when scared or overexcited. 'Taking slow, deep breaths, holding the breath in for a few seconds and then releasing it, can help slow your heart rate and calm you down,' says Abbas. Download brain-training app Personal Zen, designed to reduce stress and build resilience ( 7 Opt for cotton Wear loose-fitting, breathable clothes and avoid synthetic fabrics, which can make sweating worse. 'Nylon isn't breathable and will trap moisture and heat, making you more likely to sweat. Polyester-based clothing has water-resistant properties, meaning it does not absorb moisture – therefore sweat may remain trapped on your body and clothes,' says Hazim. Tom adds that lighter colours help to reflect the sun rather than absorb it, so wearing white and cream can also keep you cool and dry. 8 Quit smoking If you needed another reason to quit the cigarettes or vapes, here it is. 'Nicotine tells your body to release the chemical acetylcholine, which turns on the sweat glands. It also raises your body temperature, heart rate and blood pressure,' says Abbas. 9 Try vinegar Often, there's some truth behind old wives' tales. 'There are home remedies you could try, such as soaking a cotton ball in apple cider vinegar and applying it to your problem areas at night,' says Tom. 10 Block with botox 'Botox can be used to prevent the hyperstimulation of sweat glands, when there is no medical reason behind the sweating,' says Hazim. He says that by blocking or interrupting this chemical pathway, Botox minimises or even stops any sweating where it has been injected. 'This is not a cure, but it does help control excessive sweating and is effective for six to 12 months. Some patients with milder symptoms also like this treatment to help them enjoy the summer more. "Common areas people choose to have treated are the armpits, groin and face.'
Daily Mirror
22-06-2025
- Health
- Daily Mirror
'My hairdresser told me I had cancer - what happened next changed my life'
With many Brits forgetting daily sun protection and putting their skin at risk of long-term damage, it could be time to step up your SPF game. Abigail Barnes did after a routine hair appointment... It's important to look after your skin all year round, but in the summer it's even more vital to stay on top of your skincare. However, almost half of the UK population (45%) does not apply SPF on most days, putting them at risk of sunburn and skin damage. Dr Susan Mayou, co-founder and consultant dermatologist at Cadogan Clinic ( explains, 'What frequently happens is we get a burst of unexpected UV and people are caught unaware, or maybe it's not that hot but it's quite high UV. In the UK, this happens generally from about April and May onward. People don't realise that they need to be really good about their sun protection.' A recent survey by The British Skin Foundation revealed that 51% of Brits have experienced accidental sunburn. As well as not being prepared for high UV levels, not remembering to apply SPF to all exposed areas of skin is another contributing factor. 'People often forget they should put SPF on areas like the V of their chest,' says Dr Mayou. 'They remember their face but they'll be out doing something and forget there are other areas of the body they should have covered. 'Often I see people for a skin check who admit they've been sunburned in these situations. I check their skin for cancer, new moles and new pigmentation that's subsequently developed because, historically, they have often neglected to apply SPF.' Abigail Barnes, 45, a time management coach ( reveals how a skin cancer diagnosis changed her relationship with SPF... 'For a couple of years I'd noticed there was a persistent dry patch on my forehead, but I assumed it must be dry skin or psoriasis, so I thought nothing of it. However, during a trip to the hairdresser in 2019 I mentioned it in passing to my hairdresser, who replied, 'You should get that checked out. It could be cancer or something.' 'It was a throwaway comment and I felt it was a bit dramatic, but it made me keep a closer eye on it. Then, in 2021, I noticed it had gone from a dry patch to a scab that wouldn't heal. 'I phoned the doctor's surgery and booked an appointment. After sending my GP pictures of the area, I was referred to the dermatology unit and, in May, I underwent a biopsy. 'Two months later I received the news that it was skin cancer and needed to be removed. I couldn't believe it. I had honestly been expecting them to comeback and say it was nothing. 'Even though I had the diagnosis in front of me, it was still hard to take it in – right up until I had the operation in August to get rid of it. Now there's just a faint scar, but I religiously use factor 50 now, regardless of whether it's a sunny day or the middle of winter. 'As well as protecting me from UV rays, there's the anti-ageing benefits, too. Even if I'm not leaving my house, I put factor 50 on. I didn't in the past, but now it's just part of my daily routine.'
Business Mayor
16-05-2025
- Health
- Business Mayor
Are expensive SPF products worth the money? Experts reveal all
Sign up to our free Living Well email for advice on living a happier, healthier and longer life Live your life healthier and happier with our free weekly Living Well newsletter As the desire to protect our skin from the sun intensifies, many are drawn to the allure of high-end sunscreens. With their promises of silky textures and chic packaging – it can be tempting to blow the budget. But do these luxury SPFs offer superior protection, or are consumers simply swayed by sophisticated marketing? Dermatologists and sun care experts are now weighing in on whether investing in premium sunscreen is worth it. Here's what to look for when prioritising performance over prestige. More expensive SPFs tend to feel better on the skin (PA) Function vs. finish It's no question that affordable SPFs are just as effective at protecting your skin from the sun as high-end ones. 'Affordable SPFs from trusted brands can offer excellent protection and meet the same safety standards as high-end options,' says consultant dermatologist at the Cadogan Clinic, Dr Sophie Momen. 'Pricier products may offer more luxurious textures, faster absorption or finishes that feel better on the skin, but in many cases, you're just paying for branding and marketing, rather than superior protection.' However, the formula and level of protection is incredibly important. Premium products often boast more advanced UVA protection and skincare actives – and may avoid cheaper chemical filters linked to health concerns. 'There is also a possibility that the price can reflect the type of UV filters used in a formula to protect you,' explains Ultrasun's Abi Cleeve, founder of SkinSense. Read More Keir Starmer has started to sound like Boris Johnson on Brexit Ingredients that justify the investment Not all SPFs are created equal – and some of the most worthwhile differences lie beneath the surface. According to Momen, 'An effective SPF should be broad-spectrum, offering both UVB (for burning) and UVA (for ageing) protection and it should be SPF 50, especially if you're outdoors frequently, have pigmentation issues, or are using active skincare ingredients.' She also recommends formulas with antioxidants like vitamin E or niacinamide, water resistance and non-comedogenic features for acne-prone skin. 'High UVB protection – the SPF number – over 90% UVA filters, additional skincare actives for a 'one and done' in your skincare routine and a formula that sits well on the skin [can justify the cost]' says Cleeve. 'It needs to be effective, comfortable to wear and support your overall wellbeing.' (Amazon/PA) Eucerin Sun Actinic Control SPF100 Fluid Protezione Cheratosi Attinica, £19.99, Amazon (Ultrasun/PA) Ultrasun Extreme SPF50+, £24 (Look Fantastic/PA) Garnier BHA + Niacinamide Daily UV, £13, Look Fantastic How to decode the label A £12 high-street SPF 50 and a £60 luxury equivalent might look similar, but are they really offering the same thing? Technically, yes – and no. 'The SPF number measures UVB protection and must meet strict standards, regardless of the price,' says Momen. 'However, luxury brands may use newer or more photostable filters that provide better UVA protection, which is important for preventing pigmentation and premature ageing.' On a practical note, you should be looking for a 90% UVA filter or above – this is harder to find in affordable SPFs. 'Also consider how long the product protects you, and what the water resistance and photostability will be,' says Cleeve. 'A cheaper alternative may end up costing you more if you need to use more of it.' But don't let the beauty jargon confuse you. There are ways to keep the decoding simple. 'Check for the SPF rating to ensure protection against UVB rays,' says Momen. 'For UVA protection […] look for a UVA symbol in a circle or a five-star UVA rating.' Cleeve recommends going even further. 'For environmental considerations look for the BASF EcoSun pass. Look for clarity on the percentage of UVA filter and look for those that state they are allergy tested.' (Look Fantastic/PA) Ultra Violette Extreme Screen Hydrating Body & Hand Skinscreen SPF 50+, £12, Look Fantastic The mistakes you might be making Even the best SPF can't save you if it's not used correctly. Both experts cite the same major misstep: underestimating your skin's needs. 'Using low-SPF products – like SPF 15 – is a key mistake,' warns Momen. 'Lab testing assumes a much thicker application than most people use, so lower SPFs offer significantly less protection. Always opt for SPF 30–50 – ideally 50!' Solely relying on the SPF rating as opposed to UVA and UVB protection is also a common oversight. 'Not checking the level of UVA protection alongside choosing their UVB protection [is a major mistake]' explains Cleeve. She also advises ditching the 'holiday scent,' as fragranced SPFs can cause unnecessary sensitivity during sun exposure. If you're dealing with sensitive skin, melasma, or acne, your SPF choice matters even more. Read More How Enterprise Companies Are Pitching Generative AI to Marketers 'For oily or acne-prone skin, non-comedogenic formulas are essential to avoid breakouts,' says Momen. 'People with melasma or pigmentation issues benefit from tinted sunscreens with strong UVA protection, as these help block visible light too.' Those with sensitive skin, rosacea, or eczema may benefit from higher-end, hypoallergenic options, says Cleeve, particularly those with mineral-only filters. (MooGoo/PA) MooGoo Tinted SPF 40 Face Cream, £12.50 The bottom line So, is splashing out really worth it? Well, if your budget allows for a luxurious, high-performing sunscreen that feels like a dream to wear – go for it. But if you're reaching for a £10 bottle from a trusted brand with broad-spectrum protection and SPF 50, you're still doing your skin a massive favour. The simple golden rule is to use it generously. Reapply. And whatever the price point, find a formula that fits your lifestyle.
Scottish Sun
01-05-2025
- Health
- Scottish Sun
I have sensitive, eczema-prone skin – here's how I finally got it under control…
All recommendations within this article are informed by expert editorial opinion. If you click on a link in this story we may earn affiliate revenue. Plus, all the products I swear by... HOT A-TOPIC I have sensitive, eczema-prone skin – here's how I finally got it under control… Eczema was something I thought belonged in my past, until it came creeping back last year with a hot, itchy vengeance. I've tried ditching make-up, giving up booze and whittling my skincare routine down to the very basics, all in the hope of making my skin feel normal again, with varying degrees of success. 6 Here's how to scratch the itch for good Credit: GETTY I'm not exceptional, either, with one in 10 adult Brits suffering from atopic eczema.* Here's all I've learned… SEEING RED My childhood was characterised by cracked hands and sore knees, but in my teens, my eczema disappeared. However, late last year, I started to notice red, itchy patches reappearing. In weeks, my skin transformed from oily and clear to dry and chapped, leaving me clueless as to why. There are several types of eczema, but atopic eczema like mine is the most common. It's in the same family as hay fever, food allergies and asthma. 'While most cases are caused by genetics, lifestyle choices can influence the degree of eczema,' says dermatologist and medical director of EUDELO Dr Stefanie Williams. Treatment can vary, so seek medical advice if you're unsure. TRIGGER POINTS At first, I was convinced my flare-up was down to me overloading my skin with cosmetics. But I realised something else was at play. 'Eczema flare-ups can be triggered by stress, allergens, changes in weather, harsh skincare products, sweating and infections,' says dermatologist Dr Derrick Phillips. I began to notice a pattern between drinking alcohol and waking up with inflamed skin, so I reduced my intake, and I've seen it worsen if I'm stressed, too. 'Stress is a well-known trigger for up to 70% of patients with eczema,' says dermatologist Dr Alia Ahmed. Keeping notes on my phone to record the weather, what I've eaten and which products I've used (including soap, washing detergent and perfume) has been useful in helping to pinpoint possible triggers. Sun Health Explainer: Skin rashes - eczema, psoriasis, sepsis SCRATCH CYCLE The urge to scratch itchy eczema-prone skin is unbearable. I've tried rubbing, fanning, prodding — all of which are generally discouraged – and even resorted to full-blown scratching. 'If you scratch your skin, you can release histamine,' says Cadogan Clinic dermatologist Dr Aveen Connolly. This can worsen the itch and result in broken skin and infections. 'It causes thickened, leathery skin and discolouration or scarring in the longterm,' adds Dr Phillips. Cooling methods can help, but avoid applying ice directly to skin, as it can cause burns, while using a fan can feel drying. 'Instead, keep your moisturiser in the fridge, as it will cool the skin, but isn't as aggressive,' says Dr Connolly. Scratch attacks used to wake me in the night, but taking an antihistamine, like fexofenadine, before bed has helped. And if you can't resist the urge, tap! 'Tapping reduces the possibility of broken skin, minimising risk of infection,' says Dr Connolly. SHELF IT 'Opt for fragrance-free formulas, as allergies to fragrances are common for eczema-prone skin,' says Dr Williams. 'However, avoid products containing limonene and/or linalool, as these commonly used fragrance replacements can be as allergenic,' she adds. 6 This gentle body wash is fragrance-free Credit: LA ROCHE-POSAY La Roche-Posay Lipikar Soothing Cream Wash, £21 I use La Roche-Posay Lipikar Soothing Cream Wash, £21, which feels gentle and non-irritating on the skin. 'As for skincare, it's important to repair the skin barrier by using moisturisers rich in emollients, such as ceramides,' says Dr Phillips. 6 This ointment forms a protective layer over your skin Credit: cerave CeraVe Advanced Repair Ointment, £10.50 CeraVe Advanced Repair Ointment, £10.50, forms a nourishing, protective barrier over your skin, but its thick texture takes a bit of getting used to. 6 I've been using this cream daily Credit: CETRABEN Cetraben Cream, £6.05 I also love Cetraben Cream, £6.05, which feels lightweight but deeply hydrating. 'Pick a facial cleanser with a hydrating emollient formula, instead of a foaming facial cleanser, which can be drying,' says Dr Williams. My favourite is calming Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser, £12.75. 6 I'm a fan of this gentle, calming cleanser Credit: CETAPHIL Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser, £12.75 Make-up no longer sits well or feels comfortable on my skin, so I've reduced how much I wear, and I've learned to love my low-maintenance routine. Depending on the condition of your flare-up, there are some make-up product options for those experiencing eczema. 6 There are still ways to incorporate make-up into your routine Credit: Oxygenetix 'Some hypo-allergenic make-up brands, such as Oxygenetix, are well-tolerated by atopic eczema sufferers,' says Dr Williams. Unfortunately, none of the above will nip eczema in the bud entirely, and it's always worth seeking advice from your GP if your symptoms persist. This might involve prescribing anti-inflammatory steroid creams, which can help regain control of symptoms. 'Just be wary of common mistakes, such as starting prescription creams too late after experiencing symptoms, stopping steroid creams abruptly rather than gradually, and using low-strength creams for prolonged periods,' says Dr Williams. The bottom line? Your doctor knows best. *Allergy UK
The Sun
01-05-2025
- Health
- The Sun
I have sensitive, eczema-prone skin – here's how I finally got it under control…
Eczema was something I thought belonged in my past, until it came creeping back last year with a hot, itchy vengeance. I've tried ditching make-up, giving up booze and whittling my skincare routine down to the very basics, all in the hope of making my skin feel normal again, with varying degrees of success. 6 I'm not exceptional, either, with one in 10 adult Brits suffering from atopic eczema.* Here's all I've learned… SEEING RED My childhood was characterised by cracked hands and sore knees, but in my teens, my eczema disappeared. However, late last year, I started to notice red, itchy patches reappearing. In weeks, my skin transformed from oily and clear to dry and chapped, leaving me clueless as to why. There are several types of eczema, but atopic eczema like mine is the most common. It's in the same family as hay fever, food allergies and asthma. 'While most cases are caused by genetics, lifestyle choices can influence the degree of eczema,' says dermatologist and medical director of EUDELO Dr Stefanie Williams. Treatment can vary, so seek medical advice if you're unsure. TRIGGER POINTS At first, I was convinced my flare-up was down to me overloading my skin with cosmetics. But I realised something else was at play. 'Eczema flare-ups can be triggered by stress, allergens, changes in weather, harsh skincare products, sweating and infections,' says dermatologist Dr Derrick Phillips. I began to notice a pattern between drinking alcohol and waking up with inflamed skin, so I reduced my intake, and I've seen it worsen if I'm stressed, too. 'Stress is a well-known trigger for up to 70% of patients with eczema,' says dermatologist Dr Alia Ahmed. Keeping notes on my phone to record the weather, what I've eaten and which products I've used (including soap, washing detergent and perfume) has been useful in helping to pinpoint possible triggers. SCRATCH CYCLE The urge to scratch itchy eczema-prone skin is unbearable. I've tried rubbing, fanning, prodding — all of which are generally discouraged – and even resorted to full-blown scratching. 'If you scratch your skin, you can release histamine,' says Cadogan Clinic dermatologist Dr Aveen Connolly. This can worsen the itch and result in broken skin and infections. 'It causes thickened, leathery skin and discolouration or scarring in the longterm,' adds Dr Phillips. Cooling methods can help, but avoid applying ice directly to skin, as it can cause burns, while using a fan can feel drying. 'Instead, keep your moisturiser in the fridge, as it will cool the skin, but isn't as aggressive,' says Dr Connolly. Scratch attacks used to wake me in the night, but taking an antihistamine, like fexofenadine, before bed has helped. And if you can't resist the urge, tap! 'Tapping reduces the possibility of broken skin, minimising risk of infection,' says Dr Connolly. SHELF IT 'Opt for fragrance-free formulas, as allergies to fragrances are common for eczema-prone skin,' says Dr Williams. 'However, avoid products containing limonene and/or linalool, as these commonly used fragrance replacements can be as allergenic,' she adds. I use La Roche-Posay Lipikar Soothing Cream Wash, £21, which feels gentle and non-irritating on the skin. 'As for skincare, it's important to repair the skin barrier by using moisturisers rich in emollients, such as ceramides,' says Dr Phillips. CeraVe Advanced Repair Ointment, £10.50, forms a nourishing, protective barrier over your skin, but its thick texture takes a bit of getting used to. Cetraben Cream, £6.05 I also love Cetraben Cream, £6.05, which feels lightweight but deeply hydrating. 'Pick a facial cleanser with a hydrating emollient formula, instead of a foaming facial cleanser, which can be drying,' says Dr Williams. My favourite is calming Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser, £12.75. Make-up no longer sits well or feels comfortable on my skin, so I've reduced how much I wear, and I've learned to love my low-maintenance routine. Depending on the condition of your flare-up, there are some make-up product options for those experiencing eczema. 'Some hypo-allergenic make-up brands, such as Oxygenetix, are well-tolerated by atopic eczema sufferers,' says Dr Williams. Unfortunately, none of the above will nip eczema in the bud entirely, and it's always worth seeking advice from your GP if your symptoms persist. This might involve prescribing anti-inflammatory steroid creams, which can help regain control of symptoms. 'Just be wary of common mistakes, such as starting prescription creams too late after experiencing symptoms, stopping steroid creams abruptly rather than gradually, and using low-strength creams for prolonged periods,' says Dr Williams. The bottom line? Your doctor knows best. *Allergy UK How To Save Money On Beauty Buys IF your purse is feeling tighter than ever before and you're looking to save cash on your make-up routine, have you ever thought of trying out beauty dupes? Here are five of the best recommended beauty buys that are almost identical to the posh versions, but at a fraction of the price. FACE BASE If you can't afford Charlotte Tilbury 's £52 Magic Cream, why not try a dupe that costs just £5.49 from Superdrug? TONE IT UP If Drunk Elephant's £62 Protini Cream is out of your price range, you'll need to check out the new dupe in Home Bargains. TINTING IT With Fenty's game-changer skin tint costing £29, a popular supermarket's affordable alternative might just be the thing for you. GET COVERED At £29 for a Tarte concealer, the new Primark dupe is much more affordable at just £3.50. SPRAY YAY For those wanting to smell fresh without the price tag, Aldi's new Prada and Chloe perfume dupes cost a fraction of the price.
