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Skin Care tips from

Resident Expert Dr. Skotnicki

Do you have specific skin concerns? Our resident expert, Dr. Sandy Skotnicki provides answers to your questions.

Dr. Skotnicki joined the Curel® team in December 2006 as the Canadian dermatologist for the skin care division of Kao Brands Canada Inc. Dr. Skotnicki received her undergraduate degree in microbiology and immunology from the University of Toronto. She completed medical school at the same institution, graduating Alpha Omega Alpha. She went on to complete her dermatology training at the University of Ottawa, and was awarded her fellowship in Dermatology by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada in June 1997.

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Q: Keratosis Pilaris (rough, bumpy skin)

A: Keratosis pilaris is a condition in which one develops rough bumps on the upper outer arms, although it may also appear on the fronts of thighs and buttocks. It is often referred to as 'chicken skin'. It is often hereditary and more common in people with a personal or family history of eczema or allergies. Although it can be present year round, it tends to flare more in cold, dry winter months. Lubricating moisturizers, such as Curel® Extreme Care Intensive moisturizer, can be very helpful, especially if applied right after bathing, when the skin is still moist. Occasionally, a prescription lotion containing lactic acid or urea can be used, which help loosen some of the cells that are clogging the hair follicles (leading to the bumpy appearance).

Q: Eczema Skincare Basics

A: The first line of defense against breakouts of eczema is good skin care. Eczema is more likely to flare when the skin's barrier has become disrupted and it becomes dry and cracked. Take short baths or showers that are not too hot, use a mild cleanser, and immediately after, pat dry (don't rub, which will remove moisture). While the skin is still damp to the touch, apply a rich emollient moisturizer, such as Curel® Continuous Comfort® moisturizer, to seal in the moisture. Restoring the barrier will help prevent eczema flares. Moisturize at least twice a day, morning and night, to keep the skin lubricated. Getting a humidifier for your bedroom, especially overnight, can also help. When there is a lot of inflammation or redness, a topical cortisone cream can be mixed with the moisturizer. An antihistamine can also be taken to help prevent itching and therefore scratching, which can make the eczema worse and can lead to infection or scarring.

Q: Psoriasis Vs. Eczema

A: Both psoriasis and eczema are inherited inflammatory conditions that can present with rashes. Both tend to flare with changes of temperature and climate, and with stress. Eczema usually first appears in childhood, and consists of inflamed, red patches that are very itchy. The rash usually appears on the insides of the arms, behind the knees and on the neck ('flexor' surfaces). Those with eczema often also have a personal or family history of allergies, asthma or hay fever. Psoriasis can appear at any age, but usually in adulthood, and presents with thick red, scaly patches on the knees, outside the elbows ('extensor' surfaces), and buttocks, and is usually not itchy. Using moisturizers can decrease flares of both conditions, which tend to worsen when the skin is dry. Both conditions can also involve the scalp. They are both chronic, with periodic flares.

Q: Aging Skin Concerns

A: Skin can become more sensitive with age. The lipid barrier can become disrupted as one gets older, leading to dryness and cracking and therefore easier penetration of potentially irritating ingredients. Chronic exposure to the sun can thin the skin, making it more sensitive and even more likely to bruise after trauma. In women, hormonal changes, such as decreased estrogen after menopause, can also thin the skin and increase dryness, itching and irritation.

Q: Estrogen and Skin

A: Estrogen helps keep the skin smooth, plump, soft and lubricated. After menopause, with lower estrogen levels, the skin becomes more dry and sensitive. The drier it becomes, the itchier it is, and then scratching leads to further irritation and dryness, leading to an 'itch - scratch cycle'. It is therefore important to moisturize regularly, especially after bathing, with a rich emollient moisturizer such as Curel® Life’s Stage’s™ Menopause & Beyond™ skin fortifying moisture lotion as you become closer to menopause.

  
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