QR678 in Bangalore

Are you suffering from hair loss and alopecia? Are you looking for effective ways of hair regrowth treatment? Then, go ahead with the QR678 treatment. The QR678 is a cutting-edge hair growth therapy that targets affected areas of baldness. The QR678 formulation is named after “Quick Response to a disease which earlier has no answer”. The treatment has been extensively researched and proven solution for hair loss as per the clinical studies.

QR678 Hair Loss Treatment

The QR678 for hair fall is approved by the FDA – as a minimally invasive treatment for hair regrowth. QR678 is an Indian FDA-approved formulation which has received India Patent and USA Patent. It has given remarkable results to over 10K patients. It improves the greater amount hair density and thickness. The QR678 therapy involves formulating the hair growth solution directly injected into the scalp to stimulate dormant hair follicles and hair regrowth. It is a bioengineered recombinant formulation consisting of a unique combination of growth factors and peptides, which works together to rejuvenate the hair follicles and promotes new hair growth. This advanced hair treatment has positively shown permanent and natural-looking hairs for individuals suffering from alopecia.

Addressing Solutions for Your Hair Loss Concerns

QR678 is a revolutionary hair regrowth treatment that addresses the root causes of your hair loss concerns as follows:

• Hair Loss & Balding
• Alopecia Areata
• Androgenetic Alopecia
• Post-chemotherapy Hair Loss
• Post-Pregnancy Hair Loss
• Female Pattern Baldness
• PCOS related Hair Loss
• Seborrhoeic Dermatitis of Scalp
• Post-Chemotherapy Hair Loss
• Post-COVID Hair Fall

QR678 Advantages

QR678 treatment for hair loss provides numerous benefits over traditional hair restoration surgery. The prominent advantage of QR678 is a pain-free, non-invasive treatment that requires no downtime or recovery period. Some of the of the QR678 Advantages are listed below:

• Non-invasive & non-surgical procedure
• Quick & Effective Procedure (single session takes 15 minutes)
• No side-effects
• Increases high hair visibility
• Strengthens your hair shaft
• Over 90% success rate
• It offers better results than PRP treatment
• Patent and approved in 10+ countries
• 12+ clinical trials proving efficacy

Why choose QR678 Hair Treatment?

• QR678 has shown advantageous outcomes in the treatment of various conditions of alopecia, encompassing androgenetic alopecia, alopecia areata, and hormonally-induced hair loss.
• Results are encouraging with thick and natural hairs after the treatment.
• The QR678 is formulated with a combination of nutrients, vitamins, and proteins, resulting in growth factors and minimizing adverse reactions.
• Results are progressive, and you can witness hair improvement gradually.

Treatment Procedure

• Duration of the procedure will be 15 mins and can last a maximum of 30 mins
• Resume your normal activities after the procedure
• Usually done with or without anaesthetic creams
• Treatment is applicable both for males and females
• Requires 6 to 10 sessions fortnightly or monthly
• Results in the first session of 3 weeks
• Immediate recovery
• Minor side effects – slight pain and tenderness

Consultation for QR678 Hair Treatment in Bangalore

Consulting with an experienced cosmetics and dermatologist will help you find the best solution. For QR678 Hair Fall Treatment in Whitefield, Bangalore, you connect at Advanced Dermatology Center for suitable hair restoration therapy. 

HIFU Laser in Bangalore

As the advancement of medical techniques for aesthetics continues to refine skincare, a High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) laser treatment has gained notable attention. It’s a non-invasive procedure and a transformative approach to skin rejuvenation.

What is HIFU laser treatment?

A HIFU laser treatment, also known as Ultherapy, focuses on ultrasound energy to target intense levels of the skin. The heat generated through ultrasound targets those layers of the skin causing laxity and wrinkles. Collagen is stimulated, which aids in providing structure and elasticity to the skin. It then regenerates the skin to be tighter, firmer, and the skin to be more youthful. This revolutionary HIFU skin tightening treatment is helpful for sagging skin, tightening loose skin, and reducing the signs of ageing. Overall, it enhances the aesthetic appearance of the skin.

HIFU Ultraformer III laser – A High Performing Device

The introduction of HIFU Ultraformer III laser is a non-invasive cosmetic device offering a customizable treatment. It utilizes a high-intensity focused ultrasound to tighten and contour the skin around the face, neck, and body. The Ultraformer III laser is FDA-approved and a clinically proven device to deliver consistent and long-lasting results. It is a safe and reliable option for individuals looking to rejuvenate their skin and achieve a youthful complexion.

Benefits of HIFU Laser Treatment

• Reduction of Wrinkles & Fine Lines

Rejuvenate skin texture for a fresh & youthful appearance.

• Tightening & Sagging Skin

A specialized treatment tightens and uplifts your skin.

• Precise & Customizable

Enables practitioners to target specific areas of skin accurately.

• Non-Invasive & Painless

HIFU laser treatment is a painless and non-surgical treatment with minimal downtime.

• Long-Lasting Results

Collagen production gradually enhances skin elasticity & firmness for up to 2 years.

Is HIFU laser treatment right for You?

Individuals experiencing mild to moderate skin laxity, fine lines, and wrinkles. However, it may not be recommended for those with severe sagging or seeking more dramatic results. Before undergoing treatment, you can consult with your experience cosmetic doctor for HIFU skin tightening in Whitefield, Bangalore.

HIFU procedure

Before the start of the procedure, your doctor will assess your medical history and any treatment is conducted, including dental treatment. Some of the medicines like Isotretinoin should be avoided.

During the Procedure, the targeted areas are cleaned thoroughly. If any makeup or skin care products are applied will be removed as well. Topical anaesthesia is used to carry out the procedure. The ultrasound gel is applied, and the HIFU laser devices are placed against the skin. With the help of the ultrasound viewer, the device is adjusted to the required settings. The energy is transmitted to target the specific area for a duration of 30 to 90 minutes. The device is then removed and the area is cleaned.

Post-Treatment Care

Once the session is complete, you can immediately resume your regular activities. Practitioners typically provide guidelines for skincare and sun protection to optimize your results.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the HIFU Ultraformer III laser treatment in Bangalore is an advanced solution to sagging skin. It’s non-invasive, transformative, and offers skin rejuvenation with long-lasting results. By using ultrasound energy, HIFU treatment targets problem areas such as laxity and wrinkles, stimulating collagen to provide structure and elasticity to the skin. With this innovative technology, you can achieve firmer, tighter, and more youthful-looking skin. If you are looking for a professional HIFU laser treatment in Whitefiled Bangalore, the Dr Sunaina’s clinic is definitely worth considering.

There is nothing more frightening than being ill while being away from home. Travel to exotic destinations can be exciting; but the thought of native illnesses in a foreign land can be daunting. Travel can also be challenging in special circumstances like pregnancy or disability. Read on and learn how to sail through your journey in perfect health and good spirits.

Illness can strike any time, so it is wise to take adequate precaution even during short trips. One needs to be more cautious and well prepared for long periods of foreign journey. In this issue, let me help you with some advise on safe travel and self-help tips in case you do fall ill.

1) Research your destination.

Even your doctor may not know of any recent health scares, alerts or disease outbreaks in each and every country so scour the local news channels online.

2) Carry a first aid kit.
A basic readymade first-aid kit may be available in some pharmacies. But if you can’t find one, then you can make your own kit. Here are some of the items a basic first aid kit should entail (you can add or delete some items based on the length of your trip or pre-existing illnesses and allergies)-
(a) A first aid manual. Buy one from your local chemist or family physician. Or download and print out a pdf from the net.
(b) Bandaids, medical gauze pad, roller bandage, crepe bandage and small scissor.
(c) Savlon and hand sanitizer
(d) Antiseptic ointment like Bactroban for cuts and injuries
(e) Painkiller like Tylenol
(f) Paracetamol
(g) Antihistamine like Benadryl
(h) Oral Rehydration Salts
(i) Hydrocortisone 1% ointment for bites and sunburns
(j) Anti-diarrhoea medicine like Imodium
(k) Laxative like Lactulose tablets
(l) Disposable latex gloves
(m) Thermometer
(n) Aspirin tablets
(o) Antacids
(p) Antibiotics- Ciprofloxacin and Ofloxacin combination pills are a good choice.

(3) Other miscellaneous items to pack in a travel health kit may include sunscreen, insect repellent cream containing DEET, extra pair of glasses or contact lens, ear plugs, saline eye drops, mosquito net and/or iodine based water purification tablets (to be avoided if you are a pregnant traveler).

(4) Get travel health insurance and carry it with you at all times, along with some form of identification (like a copy of your passport) and contact card (with the name and address of your hotel, and name of your contact-in-case-of-emergency person). Your regular medical insurance may not cover medical expenses incurred abroad, so travel insurance is a must.

(5) Eat & Drink safely – When in doubt, always insist on having bottled water for drinking and cooking. Stay away from raw or rare meats and under-cooked sea food (oysters, shellfish etc). Do not eat raw fruits and vegetables unless they have been washed first. Only eat food that has been cooked and served piping hot. The rule is boil it, cook it, peel it or forget it! Always wash your hands before you eat, or use hand sanitizer if clean water is unavailable. Bring water to a rolling boil for a few minutes to ensure safety. If that’s not possible then use water filtration tablets, and do not swallow water from showers, pools, ponds or the ocean. Avoid ice cubes in your drink and stay away from street food. Do not ever walk bare foot, even on a beach.

(6) Get a physical examination – This is especially important in case of foreign travel. Meet your physician at least 4-6 weeks before your departure, as certain vaccinations need at least a few weeks time to provide effective protection. Other vaccinations to consider would include the flu shot, tetanus shot, Hepatitis-A and anti-rabies vaccination.

(7) Immunizations and Prophylactic medication – It is mandatory to get certain vaccinations like the yellow fever vaccination before you enter certain countries. If you are visiting a malaria prone tropical country, then contact your physician who will put you on prophylactic medication. Contact your embassy in the destination country for more information.

(8) Beware of motor vehicle accidents – It can be nerve-wrecking to drive in a foreign country if you are unfamiliar with the right hand or left hand side steering wheel. Traffic regulations are not followed meticulously in several Asian countries which can add to the chaos. Always wear a helmet even if its not considered mandatory in your destination country. Infants must always be placed in a car seat.

Now what are the most common ailments to strike during travel and how does one cope with them?

Jet lag – Starting several days prior to travel, slowly adjust your sleep schedule to match the time zone of the location you will be travelling to. Flying eastward and resetting your body clock forward is more difficult than flying westward and adding hours to your day. Avoid caffeine for at least a week before your date of departure. Stay well hydrated and eat lightly throughout your flight. Some people have benefited from the Argonne or Dr Ehret’s anti jet lag diet. The hormone Melatonin is still considered controversial and is best avoided.

Traveler’s Diarrhoea – This can be avoided if you follow the ‘eat and drink safely’ tips mentioned above. But if you do get hit, then drink plenty of oral rehydration fluids (1/4 to 1/2 cup after each diarrhoea for kids below 2, 1/2 to 1 cup after each diarrhoea for kids between 2-12 years and as much as you need if you’re over the age of 12). Contact a doctor in case of fever, mucus in stool, jaundice or persistent vomiting.

Sun Safety & Heat Exhaustion – Dress for the weather. Do not over-expose as covered skin rarely gets burnt. Stay hydrated, plan regular breaks in the shade, do not over eat, cut back on alcohol and caffeine, and use a high SPF broad-spectrum sunscreen. Watch out for sun burns, dizziness, decreased urine output, headaches, nausea and/or extreme thirst. Drink plenty of oral rehydration fluid if you experience any of these symptoms and consult a medical professional for further attention.

Motion sickness – Wear a seat belt to stay steady, take a tablet of Avomine one hour before travel, go to sleep, avoid reading, do not look out of the window of a moving vehicle, do not over-eat and avoid spicy food during travel. Carry your own sickness bag. In a car, take the front passenger’s seat. On an air plane, ask for a seat in the front where the turbulence is less. On a train, take a seat near the window; and on a ship, request a cabin in the middle of the ship. If you become ill, munch on some salted crackers or have a soda to settle your queasy stomach. Try an accupressure wrist band.

Altitude sickness – At high altitudes, decreased oxygen in the air can lead to symptoms like headache, fatigue, nausea and breathlessness. Start slowly by beginning with an altitude below 2500 meters. Rest a day after arriving to adjust to the altitude. Slow down if you feel out of breath. Do not climb more than 3000 feet a day (or 1000 feet if you’re at 12,000 feet or above). Try to spend the night at a lower altitude to get a good night’s rest. And consider medication like Diamox to ease the symptoms.

Protection from mosquitoes and other insect bites – Stay in well screened rooms. Carry your own mosquito net, preferably one that is pre-treated with insecticide. Use insect repellent but ensure that they are approved for use in children. Do not apply on cuts or spray directly to your face. Use mosquito repellent liquid electrics. Do a quick manual search for bed bugs before you use hotel furniture. These look like little black (or rusty red) seeds. Look under the mattress especially along the seams. Stay away from stray animals.

Special precautions during air travel – Stand up and stretch periodically, flex your ankles, then press your toes against the floor. This will avoid formation of blood clots in your legs during long flight. Deep vein thrombosis can be a life-threatening condition. If you suffer from varicose veins, considering wearing compression stockings. To avoid ear pain during ascent or descent- yawn, chew gum, suck on a hard candy, take a deep breath and then exhale slowly through pursed lips.

Travelers with special needs – If you suffer from a chronic illness and need to carry medication, medical devices and/or needles and syringes, then make sure to carry your doctor’s prescription (which includes the drug generic name as well) for 90 days of medication, along with a note from your doctor explaining about your illness and the need for such device or needles. Leave medication in their original containers. Wear a medical alert bracelet if you suffer from epilepsy or allergies. If you are travelling to another country for medical care or surgery (i.e, as a medical tourist), then it is your responsibility to research the standards of the foreign health care facility and the licensing of the health care provider in your destination country. Travel is best avoided in the first 12 weeks and last 6 weeks of pregnancy. Always carry your medical records with you in case of an emergency. If you are disabled and need mobility aids (eg, a wheelchair) or a service animal, then plan ahead and make advance arrangements with your air carrier (on bypassing the metal detector for instance) to avoid last minute harassment.

Here’s wishing you a happy holiday this year and I hope you never have to open that first aid kit!

I have often talked about how powerful hormones can be. And hormonal diseases are frighteningly common. Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome affects up to 1 in 5 women in Asia and the Middle-East. It is a hormonal disorder with far-reaching consequences like infertility and uterine cancer. Unfortunately most women remain unaware of their disorder.

Although there is no cure, public awareness can lead to early detection and successful management, often with simple lifestyle modifications.

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) was first recognized in the 1930s. In medical parlance, a “syndrome” refers to a group of symptoms and medical signs which occur together to characterize a particular illness. Most women with PCOS have multiple fluid filled cysts in the ovaries. While there may be several explanations for an ovarian cyst, it is the peculiar constellation of symptoms which occur together to establish the diagnosis.

The main symptom of PCOS is irregular and infrequent menstrual cycles (8 or fewer cycles in a year), starting from puberty or later in life. Other symptoms include weight gain, excess hair on the face and body, oily skin and pimples, thinning of hair on the top of the scalp, thickening and darkening of the skin over the body folds (neck, underarms, inner elbow and groin), decrease in breast size, enlargement of the clitoris and/or deepening of the voice. These symptoms can occur all at once, or one at a time; and most patients have only some of these symptoms.

An ultrasound scan of the pelvis may reveal multiple fluid filled sacs in the ovaries. Blood tests may altered hormonal levels in the blood. Blood insulin level often tends to be high, leaving the sufferer susceptible to diabetes. When left untreated, it can lead to infertility, abnormal bleeding from the uterus, and cancer of the uterine lining (“endometrial carcinoma”). There can also be long term complications of obesity and high insulin levels; like diabetes, heart disease, high cholesterol and sleep disturbances. In fact, PCOS is one of the most common cause for infertility in women.

So what causes PCOS? No one knows for sure. It seems to run in families. Women who reached puberty at a younger age (8-10) maybe at a higher risk of developing PCOS later in life. In many cases, weight gain and insulin resistance are said to be the trigger for hormonal upheavals. Insulin resistance is a condition where the body produces insulin but does not utilize it effectively, which in turn pushes the pancreas to produce even higher levels of insulin. In healthy women, the pituitary gland in the brain produces a hormone called follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) in the first half of the menstrual cycle, which stimulates hundreds of eggs in the ovaries to mature and grow within their tiny follicles. The growing follicles release Estrogen, the female hormone. Mid-cycle, estrogen levels in the blood start to peak, which signals the pituitary gland to produce a surge of hormone called luteinizing hormone (LH). Under the influence of LH, a single follicle becomes dominant, while the remaining follicles dissolve, and the dominant follicle then bursts to release one healthy egg. This process is known as ovulation. In women suffering from PCOS, LH levels are abnormally high at all times, and the mid-cycle hormonal surge fails to take off. Therefore none of multiple fluid filled sacs (seen as ovarian cysts on a scan) mature to release an egg, which explains the infertility.

After ovulation has occurred, the hormone LH directs the ovaries to produce another hormone called progesterone, which prepares the womb (the uterus) for an impending pregnancy. If conception does not occur, the womb sheds its lining along with the unused egg, roughly every 28 days, which we all know as menstruation. This fails to occur in PCOS, and a sufferer may not get her period for 45-90 days or much longer, until the uterine lining becomes so heavy that it breaks down under its own weight, leading to heavy and abnormal bleeding.

High levels of blood insulin and LH leads to increased production of male hormones (testosterone) from the ovaries and adrenal glands. High levels of testosterone also prevent ovulation and cause infertility. The male hormones are also responsible for the typical symptoms like acne, facial hair, weight gain and scalp hair thinning.

Most women remain undiagnosed as they may be unconcerned about their symptoms. However, PCOS which remains undetected and untreated for a prolonged period of time can lead to long-term medical complications. Your GP may refer you to a gynecologist or endocrinologist. The specialist doctor will take a detailed history about your menstrual cycle, check your weight and blood pressure, do a physical examination to detect signs of excess male hormones in your system, and finally order some blood tests and a simple non-invasive ultrasound scan of the abdomen and pelvic area. Patients who are having difficulty conceiving must be evaluated thoroughly, along with their partners. Only a subset of women suffer from infertility. Therefore one must always practice safe sex to avoid sexually transmitted infections and unwanted pregnancies.

Unfortunately there is no permanent cure for PCOS. In many young women, these hormonal upheavals tend to normalize on their own after marriage and child birth. Most women have only milder symptoms like irregular periods and weight gain. In that case, your endocrinologist may choose not to treat you at all. Exercise and weight loss alone can alleviate all symptoms of PCOS, regularize your cycles, and help you get pregnant! Long term weight control is also essential to avoid complications like diabetes and high blood pressure. A balanced diet, which is low on starch, free from saturated fats, refined sugars or processed food, can also go a long way in keeping your symptoms under control. In fact, lifestyle modification is the first line of treatment for PCOS. Many patients have reported benefit from yoga, quitting tobacco and switching to a vegetarian diet.

If your periods continue to remain irregular, your specialist may prescribe hormonal contraceptive pills. If you are plagued with acne and excessive facial hair, then anti-androgen medications are the drug of choice. It also helps women who suffer from hair thinning or balding. Diabetes medication like Metformin can help you lose weight faster, reduce blood insulin levels, and regulate menstrual cycles. For women who are trying to conceive, fertility medications are prescribed. Uncommonly,when fertility medications fail to work, your gynecologist may suggest a laparoscopic ovarian drilling procedure. Using a key-hole incision, your surgeon may insert a small needle to drill multiple holes in your ovaries using electric current. This is done to destroy small areas of ovarian tissue where testosterone is produced. This process can help induce ovulation, so that you may conceive.

With treatment, most women go on to conceive and have healthy babies. During pregnancy, women must be screened for diabetes of pregnancy before 20 weeks of gestation. If you do develop gestational diabetes, it is likely to recur in future pregnancies, and you are at high risk for diabetes later in life. In fact, all PCOS patients are advised to get their blood sugars tested on an annual basis.

Symptoms like acne, excess hair growth, skin tags and skin pigmentation can be effectively treated by a dermatologist. However, it is advisable to get onto hormonal medications for best results. Thoroughly discuss the pros and cons of hormonal medication with your doctor and your family, while keeping an open mind. Visit a physician at regular intervals for early detection and management of any untoward sequelae. Some of the symptoms of PCOS can cause severe depression, mood swings and loss of self-esteem. The hormonal fluctuations do not help. If a loved one is suffering from PCOS, shower them with compassion and understanding. Do not hesitate to approach a counselor or mental health professional if you feel the need.

“Ayurveda” in Sanskrit means knowledge of life. Ayurvedic Dermatology relies on the knowledge of individual body constitution to formulate the right skin care and lifestyle modifications, which can help one achieve complete harmony of the mind, body and skin. Read on to learn more.

Several botanical extracts which have been used since centuries across Asia and the Middle-East are now being re-examined by pharmaceutical companies and cosmetic giants. From the low budget cold creams purchased by penny-pinching housewives.. To the uber expensive and ultra-luxurious cosmetic creams and toiletries available only in select beauty stores.. You will be hard-pressed to find a formulation which does not contain at least ONE plant, animal, food, herb or natural mineral based ingredient. More and more women tend to shun chemical based cosmetics and are looking for herbal, natural and synthetic free formulations.

Women in Asia have always known about the beauty benefits of turmeric, cream, saffron, coconut oil and sandalwood paste. Meanwhile, women in Egypt and the Middle East have used henna, rose water, honey and fuller’s earth to beautify themselves. But now even science backed with multiple researches done across the world have confirmed what we already know. Governments, doctors, researchers and pharmaceutical companies are working together to integrate the ancient knowledge of alternative medicine with modern biomedicine in order to maximize benefit to the customer.

From the Ayurvedic perspective, there are three Doshas – psychophysiological subprinciples- that regulate skin health and perspective.Ayurveda asserts that we are all born into an unchanging constitution, which is our Dosha. These are the Vata, Pitta and Kapha. Vata governs circulation in the skin and modulates the sense of touch. Pitta controls skin temperature and the biochemical processes that occur in the skin. Kapha modulates moisture levels and lubrication. A person is characterised by the proportion of doshas present in his body. An imbalance of one, two or all three doshas causes disease.

People with Vata skin type are “The Dry Skin Type”. Their skin is dry, rough and thin, with visible veins. Their body craves sunlight and they tan easily. They have dry, rough and thin hair. Warm oily food with a mix of sweet sour and salty tastes balances vata. Vata individuals need to avoid dry food like bread and crackers, drink 6-8 glasses of warm water and sip sweet fruit juices throughout the day. Going to bed early and performing a full body oil massage before shower soothes vata.

People with Pitta skin type are “The Sensitive Allergy Prone Type”. Their skin is thick oily and smooth. They have excessive body heat, perspire profusely and flush easily. Their skin is warm and soft. They have multiple freckles and moles, get sunburnt easily, and develop acne, rashes and bruises very easily. They have strong, thick, oily and dark hair. These individuals must avoid excessive sunlight, steam and saunas, and facials. Hot and spicy food should be avoided. Astringent, bitter and sweet foods like melons and pears, citrusy fruits and vegetables, and cooked greens are especially good. Drinking plenty of water flushes out impurities from the allergy prone pitta skin. They must avoid scrubs and hair colouring. They must reduce external or internal contact with synthetic chemicals. Rose water, cucumber, watermelon, aloe vera, sunscreens and other cooling therapies, taken internally or applied to the skin, has a good impact on the health of Pitta individuals.

People with Kapha skin type are “The Oily Skin Type”. Their skin is thick, smooth and moist, fair and clear complexioned and with few wrinkles. They are prone to acne, open pores, blackheads and whiteheads, and premature graying. They need more cleansing than other skin types. They must avoid oily creams. They must also avoid sugary, starchy and fatty food along with cheeses. Light, easy to digest, astringent, bitter and well-spiced food (Indian curries, for example) help in balancing your kapha. Food must be prepared in olive oil and a little ginger and lime can be taken before meals to stimulate the digestive system. Frequent warm baths, regular exercise, high fiber diet and scrubbing the skin with an exfoliating clay, can help purify Kapha body types.

So how do some of our favourite domestic skin care ingredients work?

Turmeric has antiseptic properties and is an excellent exfoliant. Raw organic turmeric is almost 100% safe. It has been used to lighten a tan and heal acne. It has also been used to peel off facial hair, treat burns and skin infections. Because of its yellow stain, it is best suited for brown-skinned individuals. When used as a spice, it has anti-oxidant and anti-cancer properties. It can fight asthma, allergies and arthritis, lower blood sugar levels and detoxify the liver. No wonder this humble spice has been referred to as “the Indian Saffron”.

Oats are a kind of cereal and well regarded as a nutritional powerhouse. Its beauty benefits have been known since 2000 BC when Egyptians and Arabs used it to scrub away dead skin and beautify their bodies. Oatmeal baths are hugely beneficial for anyone suffering from Eczema, itching or insect bite allergies. It contains polysaccharides, which turns gelatinous in water and forms a film over the skin, thus acting as a natural moisturizer.

Henna is an integral part of Indian and Middle-Eastern culture. It is a flowering herb which imparts a natural orange-red stain when the leaves are dried and powdered, or crushed, to form a paste. Henna helps to strengthen and condition hair, prevent premature graying and protect against split ends when applied as a mask on scalp hair. Henna also has antibacterial and antifungal properties. Royal families in Persia used henna powder as a body scrub as well. Henna oil soothes headaches, cools the scalp, delays graying of hair and cures insomnia as well. Natural henna is 100% safe. But black henna can cause skin irritation and allergies. This is not because of the henna per se, but the dye added to impart the black color. Hence, there is no such thing as “natural black henna”. Henna leaves, flowers and the bark of henna plant have been used for its medicinal properties as well.

Do natural metals and minerals have beauty benefits too? The ions in gold can help stimulate the skin. This helps in reducing fine lines and tightening the skin. Gold has skin lightening benefits as well. A gold based facial improves blood circulation, lightens and tightens skin and gives an instant glow. Gold taken orally can treat allergies and inflammatory disorders as well. Ancient Romans, Egyptians and Chinese have known about the beauty benefits & healing properties of gold for centuries now. It is said the Cleopatra used a gold mask on her face every night!

Rose water is a rich source of antioxidants, and has several anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial and hydrating properties. It is highly versatile and suitable for all skin types and all age groups. It can be used as a toner for oily and pimple-prone skin. It can be used to soothe sun burns and sensitive skin. It can be mixed with glycerine or olive oil and applied to dry and chapped skin. You can use it to remove make up or add it to your face pack. It has an unforgettably pleasing aroma which can calm the nerves, relieve anxiety and refresh the senses. So a few drops added to your bath water can help you forget the day’s burdens.

Honey, aloe vera, sandalwood powder, saffron, caffeine, coconut oil, avocado, soy, tea tree, arnica, clay, mushrooms, olive oil, chamomile, lavender, rosemary, neem and licorice.. The list is endless.. From skin lightening to moisturizing, healing, soothing, anti-itch and antiseptic properties.. These botanicals are a precious treasure of beauty and anti-ageing secrets. Animal extracts like emu oil, snake oil, placenta extracts, caviar and bird feces have also been used in various anti-ageing creams and facials with great success.

On a parting note, let me leave you with a tip that you can actually use! Have you been trying to concoct an inexpensive home-made face pack of your own, but don’t know how to go about it? Here is how – You can use gram flour, oatmental or sandalwood powder as a base. To this you can add ground almonds (blanched and peeled), dried orange peel powder and just a pinch of turmeric. The ground almonds will act as a scrub, the orange peel has a chemical peel like effect and the turmeric will help dry out acne. You need to add a liquid base to turn this powder into a face pack. Add rose water if you have oily skin. Or milk cream for normal to dry skin. You also need to add some kind of oil for the right consistency, so try olive oil or sweet almond oil. This is an excellent face pack for anyone over 25. For teen skin, you can make a fruit based face pack. Use the pulp from tomatoes, strawberries and pineapples, add a pinch of saffron to it. Leave it on your face till it dries, then rinse. This is the perfect summer face pack for tanned and oily skin as well.

We pay through our teeth, and we’re willing to put up with some pain for a lot of gain in the beauty department. But are some of these beauty fads worth the risk? I list the top 10 beauty fads that are not good for your body. Read on and reconsider.

1. Tattoos and Body Art – Think before you Ink!
It is entirely too easy to get a permanent tattoo done these days. But since it is permanent, why not take a few days to ponder on some pertinent facts before you walk into that tattoo salon? Tattoos are permanent designs made on the skin by injecting dyes deeper into the skin using needles. Since the skin is breached, there is a real risk of infections, allergic reactions and blood borne diseases like tetanus and hepatitis C. Tattoos tend to fade over the years, so they do not look as attractive anymore. Intricate designs may get altered as the skin stretches and sags with age. Circumstances may change and you may no longer like the tattoo. This is especially true for those who tattoo the names of a lover or the face of a beloved movie star. Rarely a tattoo may burn or swell during an MRI done later in life for medical complications. Never get a tattoo done under the influence of drugs or alcohol. And don’t allow friends or lovers to pressurize you into doing it. Your body is a temple; don’t do anything you might regret.

2. Body piercings – Not for the squeamish!
A lot of people express their individuality using piercings on one or more parts of their body. Piercings can vary from the elegant to the bizarre. Earlobe piercings are generally the safest, while tongue and genital piercings carry the highest risk of infection and bleeding. If you got your piercing done at an unregistered practice, then there is a serious risk of blood borne infections (like Hepatitis) from use of un-sterile needles. Scars and painful keloids are another risk. Facial piercings are particularly impulsive and unwise because such piercings can scar your face for life. Tongue piercings can cause speech impediments, and can chip away your tooth enamel. Ear cartilage piercing (in front of the ear) may form a painful abscess which can only be treated by surgical removal of the cartilage. This can permanently deform your ear. Not to mention practical problems like your ring getting stuck in clothing. Or your genital piercing rupturing condoms during sex! Consider your choice with care, and only rely on certified practitioners.

3. Hair straightening creams contain Formaldehyde
Women with straight hair loves curls, and women with wavy hair want poker straight locks. This is old news. But did you know most hair straightening products contain a chemical called Formaldehyde? Even the ones labelled “formaldehyde-free”! Formaldehyde is a sour smelling chemical that can irritate the eyes and nose causing eye watering, breathlessness, itching and rashes when inhaled. What’s even more frightening is that formaldehyde is a carcinogen (cancer-inducing chemical). While salon workers are the worst affected, several U.S based health and safety administrations have issued health warnings on this dangerous chemical. If you want to straighten your hair, use a hair iron instead.

4. Tanning booths are fashionable death beds
No one’s every completely satisfied with the color of their skin. Women of color wish to bleach their skin. And pale skinned women seek the perfect tan. Tanning beds continue to mushroom across the world despite the numerous cautions issued by various health regulatory bodies. The rising incidence of melanoma, the most dreaded of all skin cancers, has been directly linked to the increasing trend of using tanning beds and sunlamps. The industry is driven by teens and youngsters, and consequently, melanoma is now being diagnosed in those as young as 20 or 30. The radiation levels often exceed safety limits. Yet ironically, a tan is considered a sign of good health! Spray-on tans are a health hazard as well. They contain a chemical called dihydroxyacetone (DHA), along with synthetic dyes and fragrances which can be hazardous when inhaled.

5. Fairness creams – Where is the ‘poison’ skull?
Yet another dangerous and completely avoidable beauty bad-habit. Fairness creams containing steroids, hydroquinone or mercury are banned in various countries. But they’re freely available (or smuggled) in several Asian and Middle-Eastern countries, where they do not require a doctor’s prescription and are routinely abused with horrifying side effects. Mercury can cause memory loss, numbness of hands and feet, kidney failure, insomnia and psychiatric disorders. Small amounts of mercury gets absorbed into the blood stream and can even cross the placenta. Imagine the damage it can wreck on the delicate organs of an unborn baby! Even after you stop using the cream, the mercury can stay in your body for a couple of months. Worse, the mercury in the cream reaches breast milk as well, creating side effects to innocent infants. Hydroquinone can cause permanent bleaching, skin irritation and sun sensitivity. Steroid creams are the most frequently abused across the world. These can cause permanent thinning of skin, excessive facial hair, pimples, stretch marks and extreme sun sensitivity. Now these are really unattractive means to achieve attractive looking skin!

6. Cornrows and hair weaves can lead to permanent hair loss
I’ll admit it. Braids and weaves look lovely indeed, and I have been personally tempted on several occasions. However these are fairly expensive styles, which are left unwashed for several days. Which can turn into a serious hygiene horror. But besides this, such hair trends can cause severe damage to your hair roots as well. They lead to a kind of balding called ‘traction alopecia’. The strain on the connective tissue of the scalp can even leave you with headaches and scalp swelling. The good news however is that traction alopecia is reversible. Assuming that you’ve “reversed” the hair situation of course!

7. Permanent make up. a permanent mistake?
Permanent lipstick and lip liner. An artificial mole. Permanent eyeliner and eyebrow tattoos. It might have seemed like a bright idea at the time. But most women go on to regret those high arched eyebrows which don’t suit your face anymore when you’re in your 50’s and the shape of your face has changed. That maroon lip liner might look moronic in THIS decade. A chin mole is no longer in fashion. And pencil thin eyebrows are now dated because thicker eyebrows are suddenly the “in thing”. Colored tattoos like these are impossible to laser away, and most jobs I have seen are badly done. Cosmetic tattoos often have white dye mixed in it to achieve the perfect color. White dye turns instantly black when they’re hit by tattoo removal lasers. Now that’s a fact that most dermatologists are not aware of either. The only thing worse than permanent orange lipstick is permanent black lipstick! Keep this in mind when you’re weighing the pros and cons of getting permanent make up done to your face.

8. Casual use of fashionable colored contact lenses – Don’t you “see” the risks?
Colored contact lenses come in all colors and sometimes in prints and designs as well. The trend is to invest in multiple, cheap and tacky pairs brought off flea markets and malls, so you can have colors and designs to match every outfit. The cheap knock-offs are made of low grade plastic which shut off oxygen and moisture absorption by the corneas. This can lead to corneal tears, injury, infections and even blindness. Contact lenses must be used with care and responsibility. Take the time to get yourself trained in the proper use, care and cleaning of your lenses. Discard them when their time is up. And never, EVER, sleep with your lenses on!

9. Artificial Nails – What’s left of your natural cuticles?
False nails are beautiful and safe when they’re applied by trained professionals and cared for by responsible users. Trouble begins when cheap and poorly fitted acrylic nails are used. These can fester fungal infections, and your natural nails may appear stunted, brittle and dry. The glue used to fix these nails may cause allergic reactions. Many salons use nail glue which contain MMA (Methyl Methacrylate) which is classified as a “poisonous and deleterious substance” by the US FDA. The MMA is generally responsible for the redness and scaling which develops on the skin around the nails. In fact, did you know that a lot of eyelid allergies can be attributed to false nails?
Always get you false nails removed at the salon. Do not attempt to remove them at home; you might end up tearing and splitting your natural nail.

10. Beauty salons can be hotbeds for infection.
Imagine this- Hands and feet soaked in hot tubs shared by dozens of clients in a day. A pedicure brush which was scrapping off invisible fungi and viruses from an infected foot just an hour ago. A waxing stick double and triple dipping in the same hot wax jar used on every client that walked in for a bikini wax that day. A saliva soaked thread pulling out your eyebrows. Every dermatologist knows patients who have ended up with a nail fungus or foot warts after a mani-pedi job. And a lot of women end up with burns or tiny pus filled rashes after a recent waxing. There isn’t much you can do. But you can carry your own mani-pedi instruments to the salon. Insist on the use of disposable gowns and wax strips. Apply antiseptic cream to waxed and threaded skin. And ask your therapist to wear disposable gloves wherever practical. Hospital trips can be painful and expensive, so it’s always better to be safe than sorry!

There is no shame in aspiring to be beautiful. But be knowledgeable and responsible with your choices. Weigh all the pros and cons before you chose any beauty fad that will permanently alter your appearance. Or which could potentially scar you for life. Health and hygiene concerns must ALWAYS come before vanity. If you have enjoyed reading this article, then go to www.facebook.com/yourfamilydermatologist and click ‘Like’ for more interesting snippets on skin, hair and nail care for all members of the family.

Congratulations to all the pregnant ladies out there! A pregnant woman is a beautiful sight. Your body is changing, and so is your skin. But do not allow these changes to unnerve you. Read on to learn more about skin care in pregnancy, what’s safe to use, and tips to manage unpleasant skin ailments during this time.

Your body is going through a sea-tide of physical, physiological and hormonal changes. Your skin is glowing, your hair is looking thick and lustrous, and you are receiving a lot of love and attention from all of your loved ones. However, you are also concerned about the new freckles across your face, stretch marks appearing over your belly, pimples on your face and dry and itchy skin. You are getting confused with all the warnings you are receiving from friends or the media about what’s safe and unsafe to do during pregnancy. Allow a dermatologist to help you understand what’s going on with your skin right now. This article will also give you some scientific clarity on the skin care dos and don’ts during pregnancy.

The dark areas of your skin, like the skin on your upper lip, your nipples, inner thighs and your genital skin, will turn darker. This is more noticeable in dark skinned women. Pre-existing moles and freckles also become darker and more prominent. Even old scars and birthmarks may look darker. Many women notice a dark line running down from their navel to their pubis. This line is called the Linea Nigra. Most women already have a very faint white line in that area (they may not even be aware of it), and that line turns brown and prominent during pregnancy. The most distressing problem is the appearance of brown blotchy patches on your cheeks or nose during your second and third trimester. This condition is called ‘Chloasma’ or the ‘mask of pregnancy’ as it creates the appearance of a half mask across the upper half of your face. All these pigmentary changes are caused by the hormonal upheavals in your body during your pregnant state. Chloasma can create a lot of social embarrassment and many crying spells, but the good news is that it will disappear on its own. Use a sunscreen and avoid going out in the sun without protection, as this will darken your freckles and chloasma. Physical and chemical sunscreens are absolutely safe to use during pregnancy. If your chloasma is bothering you, and if concealers are not a satisfactory option for you, then consult a dermatologist before you pick up a bleaching cream from the beauty store. Creams containing Vitamin C, Azelaic acid and Glycolic Acid are safe to use during pregnancy. Avoid skin lightening creams containing Mercury or Hydroquinone as their detrimental effects on the unborn fetus is documented fact. Post-delivery, avoid going back on hormonal contraception (like birth control pills) as they can worsen your pigmentation. If the skin all over your body turns a shade darker without any reasonable explanation, then it might be wise to have your thyroid gland tested.

If you already suffer from acne, your skin might turn oily and you might notice more severe pimple breakouts during the second and third trimester of your pregnancy. Unfortunately, most anti-acne creams and tablets are forbidden for pregnant and nursing women. Retinoid containing anti-acne creams can even cause serious birth defects in the fetus. For the particularly severe cases, where there is a risk of facial scarring from the acne, it is relatively safe to use Clindamycin, Erythromycin and Azelaic acid gels after the 4th month of your pregnancy. Use a tea-tree oil face wash (avoid Salicylic acid based cleansers), keep your face clean and dry, keep your nails off your face, avoid facials and steam bath, and do not experiment with home remedies like toothpaste. Frequent washing or daily use of face scrubs is counter-productive. Get blackheads and whiteheads manually removed by a dermatologist. You can also use face-packs made from Fuller’s earth or sandalwood powder, to get rid of excess oil and loosen blackheads. Blackhead removal strips are also safe to use.

Hormonal changes along with rapid stretching of your skin can leave you with ugly stretch marks. These may be inevitable if you are carrying twins or have gained too much weight during your pregnancy. Keep your skin well hydrated by drinking plenty of water and using thick emollient creams like cocoa butter. Apply mineral oil (Baby oil) or Vitamin A or Vitamin E containing oils or creams (eg, Bio-Oil) to minimize the appearance of stretch marks. A balanced diet along with moderate exercise during pregnancy can help you gain weight in a controlled manner. Post-delivery, go for walks and do some abdominal toning exercises to help your belly muscles regain their former shape.

Itching in late pregnancy affects 18% of all pregnant women, and is generally caused by skin dryness and over-sensitivity which is common in this state. During pregnancy, your skin is also more prone to eczema, prickly heat and yeast infections, which also create itching and discomfort. It is only a myth that itching can lead to stretch marks. Enjoy a good scratch, but if itching is accompanied by red raised rashes on your belly, then this may be a sign of cholestasis (a condition where the bile outflow from the gall bladder is obstructed by the growing uterus). There can be symptoms like nausea, poor appetite, tiredness and jaundice. If your urine is dark and the whites of your eyes appear yellow, then report to your doctor immediately. He/she will run some blood tests, prescribe an aloe, calamine or camphor based moisturizer, along with mild steroid creams and oral medications. The jaundice and itching will disappear 48 hours after delivery, and rashes also subside within 6 weeks. Itching associated with the appearance of hives and fluid filled blisters is a medical emergency and must be treated urgently. Pregnancy related itching can recur in subsequent pregnancies but it is usually worse in first time moms.

Permanent hair dyes and hair removal (“depilatory”) creams are best avoided in the first three months of pregnancy. It is perfectly safe to use make up and nail polish during pregnancy. However you may have to choose your make-up wisely if you have pimple-prone skin. If you are suffering from chloasma, avoid soy containing creams or perfumed cosmetics which contain phytoestrogens and oil of bergamot as these may worsen your pigmentation.

You may have noticed that body hair is growing faster during pregnancy. While it is perfectly safe to shave, do not shave in the shower, especially during the last 3 months as you may lose balance and hurt yourself. Avoid laser hair removal as the safety of laser radiation during pregnancy has never been investigated.

If you have been using hair growth serums before your pregnancy, you may want to consider going off the medication during pregnancy and breast-feeding. Most hair growth serums contain minoxidil (Rogaine), Amnexidil, caffeine or phytoestrogens, which are all medications that are unsafe in pregnancy. Although Allopathy regards hair oils as purely placebo, many women have benefited from the placebo effect of hair oils containing castor oil, biotine, Brahmi and gooseberry extract.
Maintain good genital hygiene using lactic-acid containing feminine washes to keep yeast infections at bay. However, do not douche.

Your nails will grow faster during pregnancy but they may also be more brittle and weak, so make sure you are getting enough protein and calcium in your diet. Use a nail hardening base coat before applying nail paint.

Maintain good dental hygiene during pregnancy by brushing, flossing and cleaning your tongue twice a day. You will be more prone to bleeding gums and dental caries during pregnancy, and it is now proven that teeth and gum infections may lead to preterm deliveries. Make sure to get enough Vitamin C in your diet.

It is safe to get manicures and pedicures done during pregnancy, but avoid getting a foot massage done as the pressure on certain nerve points around the ankle can trigger uterine contractions.
Warm baths and tub soaks can be very relaxing and can ease the aches and pains of pregnancy and improve blood circulation around your feet. But avoid hot baths if you are suffering from itchy skin. And do not fall asleep with your hot water bag as these can lead to serious skin burns.
Insect repellent creams and anti-lice shampoos are best avoided in pregnancy as they contain pesticides. Use mosquito nets and lice combs; or look for herbal alternatives.

On a parting note, when in doubt, get a second opinion from your dermatologist and gynecologist. It is always better to err on the side of caution when you carry the responsibility of an unborn innocent child’s life nurturing within you.

Women have special areas of concern when it comes to matters of health and well-being. As female life expectancy and quality of life continues to improve over the generations, awareness and education has been key.
It is important for women to have access to knowledge and information about their bodies and all aspects of their physical and mental well-being.

Starting with childhood, young girls experience their pubertal growth spurt a few years earlier than boys. Puberty puts great demands on the thyroid gland and bone marrow, which is why goitre and iron deficiency anemia generally begins during these formative years. Blood loss from menstruation makes girls more vulnerable to anemia. Therefore, crash dieting and eating disorders have detrimental effects on the body and mind during these years. In fact, young adolescent girls must consume plenty of dark leafy vegetables, legumes, seafood and red meat. Regular de-worming at least once a year is also helpful in combating anemia. Proper training in genital hygiene is important, from childhood, to prevent infections from developing and spreading. Over-washing and douching is discouraged as it upsets the natural flora and pH balance of the vagina, leading to a vicious cycle of irritation, itching and further obsessive washing of the area with harsh soaps and detergents.

Youth and marriage come with its own set of health concerns. Young and sexually active women are vulnerable to HPV infections from the Human Papilloma Virus. This virus causes genital warts, but many women harbor this virus in their cervices, with no apparent symptoms at all. Almost all cervical cancers are caused by HPV virus, and this is one of the leading causes of cancer among women in developing countries. It is more common in young women who get married and have multiple children at a young age. A pap test is an important screening test performed by gynecologists to detect cancerous and pre-cancerous growths in the cervix. It is recommended that women aged 21-55 must get the test done every 3-5 years (starting from a few years after the first sexual experience). It is a painless test which is performed as an out-patient procedure and can potentially save lives and avoid mutilating surgeries. HPV vaccines like Gardasil can provide up to 90% protection from the virus, provided that the vaccine is taken at a young age (that is, before the first sexual contact).

Motherhood once again puts a huge demand on a woman’s body and once again makes a woman vulnerable to anemia and thyroid disorders. Infertility on the other hand, is becoming increasingly common but most people do not know that a couple is only considered infertile if they have been unable to conceive after 12 months of regular contraceptive-free intercourse. If you are trying to get pregnant, either naturally or with medical assistance, it is important to quit smoking and drinking, take a tablet of folic acid everyday, exercise regularly, keep your weight in check, lower stress levels and make sure to receive your rubella (measles) vaccination.

Certain illnesses are more common among women than men, perhaps due to hormonal influences. These include thyroid disorders, gall bladder stones, migraines, autoimmune diseases like Lupus, urinary tract infections and irritable bowel syndrome. Osteopororis, a condition characterized by bone weakness and fragility, is also more common in women over the age of 50. It is important for women to have regular calcium supplements after the age of 40 in order to avoid fractures from minor trauma. Calcium is also essential for growing children and women who are pregnant or breast-feeding. Dental hygiene is often neglected by women. Doctors have proven that heart disease is closely linked to tooth decay, and gum disease has been linked to premature labour in pregnant women. So remember to brush your teeth twice a day (night time brushing is more important), floss your teeth after every meal and visit your dentist regularly.

The other leading cancer among women is the dreaded breast cancer. It usually begins as a painless lump in the breast or armpit. Risk factors include increasing age, genetic factors like having a close relative who has had breast cancer, women who have had fewer children or had their first child at a late age, women who have not breast-fed their children, women who attained puberty at a young age (less than 12) and reached menopause at an older age (over 51). The use of artificial estrogen containing hormones (like the birth control pill) also increases the risk of breast cancer, just as obesity does. Ask your gynecologist to teach you to perform the breast self-examination test. Consult your doctor if you detect a lump in the breast which does not go away. Other symptoms include one-sided bloody nipple discharge or newly developed nipple inversion. Mammograms can also be done as a routine screening test to detect early cancers.

Like every girl will attain puberty and become pregnant one day, every woman will inevitably reach menopause some day. Menopause is a time in a woman’s life when her reproductive cycles end. It is identified as a permanent absence (at least 1 year) of monthly periods. Increasing age brings with it a multitude of medical ailments like heart disease, osteoporosis, arthritis, urinary incontinence and memory loss. Physical and mental exercises practised on a daily basis from a young age can delay the onset of most age-related ailments. Practice your Kegel’s exercises for better bladder control as you age. You can do this by contracting your pelvic floor muscles (the same muscles which can help you stop urination in midstream) for 10 seconds, then relaxing the muscles for 10 seconds, and repeating the same 4-5 times in a row. As you gain practice, you’ll be able to do so without clenching your tummy or buttocks, and without holding your breath, which is the correct way to do it.

Estrogen hormone has cholesterol lowering properties and has protective influence on the heart. Which is why heart disease effects women at a much later age compared to men. However, anxiety and depression are much more likely to hit women, especially at a younger age. Home-makers in the 21-35 age bracket have the highest suicide rates in most developing countries. This may be linked to biological and social differences between men and women. Women can also have significant mood swings in relation to hormonal fluctuations. These include premenstrual syndrome (PMS), post partum depression or mood swings caused by menopause or birth control pills. Stress can also manifest as physical ailments like insomnia, vague abdominal pains, backache, headaches and chronic fatigue syndrome. Fibromyalgia is a condition where a person has long standing muscle and joint pains along with headaches and insomnia. It generally affects young adult women more than men, and it is linked to chronic stress. A vigilant and caring family can help a woman tide over such an emotional crisis, either through counselling or with medical attention.

Get a master health check up done every year after the age of 40. Besides screening for diabetes, heart disease, cervical cancer, skin cancer, breast cancer and vision screening, this must also include bone density testing as well. Education and financial independence will give women the confidence to take their own decisions in crucial matters affecting their health, be it fertility, contraception or medical care.

There are times when one instinctively feels there’s something off about our health. That gut instinct might not be wrong. Read on to learn more about weird bodily symptoms that might give a clue to more sinister health concerns.

1. Post menopausal or mid-cycle bleeding
Bleeding in between periods can be a sign of cancer of the cervix or endometrium. Or cervical infections. Bleeding after menopause is never normal and must be evaluated by a gynecologist.

2. Breast lumps, inverted nipple and nipple discharge
A recently detected breast lump is one of the biggest health scares for a woman. It could be a harmless cyst or it could be a cancerous tumor. Bad signs include bloody discharge from the nipple, nipple inversion, scaling or oozing over the nipple, and breast dimpling. Your chances of developing breast cancer is higher if breast cancer runs in your family, if you do not have any children, or did not breast feed your child, are overweight, or took birth control pills for over 10 years. Consult your surgeon for a mammogram and needle aspiration of breast tissue for testing. Ask your gynecologist for information on how to perform a breast self examination.

3. Chronic Cough
Sputum or not, do not ignore any cough that lasts more than 2 weeks. Bad signs include chest pain, weight loss, breathlessness or blood in sputum.

4. Chronic Headache
If you suffer from a headache that you would describe as “the worst headache of my life”, or that began suddenly like a “thunderclap”, then that warranties an urgent visit to the neurologist. Migraines can be very nasty and brain aneurysms are akin to having a live bomb ticking inside your brain. A simple CT scan can change your life.

5. Frequent low grade fever
Frequent low grade fevers could be a sign of tuberculosis, blood or lymph node cancers or even an autoimmune disorder like lupus. Be prepared to go through blood tests, X-Rays and imaging tests to find the root cause.

6. Difficulty swallowing
If you have trouble swallowing, have a poor appetite, vomiting and weight loss, then consult your gastroenterologist. He will do tests which involve passing a tube with a mini camera into your throat to check for any tumors. And making you drink a medicated liquid which will make your throat and food pipe appear more prominent on an X-ray.

7. Easy bruising
Excessive or easy bruising requires blood tests to rule out blood or bone marrow diseases. It could indicate a vitamin C deficiency or even blood cancers.

8. Unexplained weight loss
If you have lost more than 10% of your body weight without any change in your diet or exercise habits, then that is unusual and deserves to be investigated. It could indicate a thyroid problem, underlying infections, digestive issues or just extreme psychological stress.

9. Chronic fatigue
Tiredness in women could be caused by stress, hectic lifestyle and lack of sleep or rest. But if you are feeling constantly tired despite adequate food, hydration and rest, then you must get yourself evaluated for thyroid disease, diabetes, Vitamin D deficiency and connective tissue disease. Fibromyalgia affects young women who are depressed. It causes vague symptoms like chronic fatigue, sleep disturbances, and chronic pain (multiple muscle and joint pains). It is a partly psychological and partly physical ailment. It is a difficult to diagnose and difficult to treat condition which can cause deep physical and emotional anguish.

10. Abdominal bloating, blood in stool or blood in pee
Women tend to develop abdominal bloating in the few days prior to their period. But if abdominal bloating and discomfort do not go away, then consult a gastroenterologist. Blood in urine or stool are bad signs are well. They most likely indicate a bladder infection, kidney stones or hemorrhoids (piles), but must be evaluated by a physician.

11. Change in the appearance of a mole
There are well defined risk factors for skin cancer. If you have pale skin, blonde or red hair, blue or green eyes, a lot of freckles, more than 20 moles or several large moles; then you are at higher risk of developing skin cancer. If you have noticed any new moles, or if existing moles become larger, bleed, itch or ulcerate – then have them examined and biopsied by your dermatologist without delay. Multiple clinical studies have conclusively proven that regular use of sunscreens can help minimize the risk of skin cancer.

12. Chest pain
If you suffer from chest pains or a sense of heaviness and weight on your chest, which is triggered by exercise, stress or a heavy meal, then consult your cardiologist at the earliest. Cardiac pain can sometimes manifest as jaw pain, or shoulder pain, or radiating pain along the left arm without any actual chest pain!

13. Mood changes
Women are more vulnerable to depression and mood swings. Depression after child birth is fairly common, but severe depression can lead to suicidal or murderous tendencies and requires urgent psychiatric care. If you suffer from persistent sadness, increased use of alcohol, feelings of wanting to hurt yourself or others, then you are in serious need of help.

14. Calf pain
Sudden onset calf pain which appears after a long flight, or in a woman who’s on birth control pills, may be a sign of deep vein thrombosis. This happens when a blood clot forms in the venous network of the calf muscles. This clot can dislodge and travel to the heart or lungs to cause heart attack and breathlessness. Crampy pain in the calves while walking or exercising indicates blood vessel hardening and poor circulation. This is a warning sign for impending heart attacks, and must be evaluated by a cardiologist and vascular surgeon.

A woman’s health is often neglected by her loved one’s, often until it is too late. Even worse, women often tend to neglect their own physical and emotional health. We all fall sick from time to time. But an educated and self-aware woman can vastly improve the quality of her life by early detection and prompt treatment of medical ailments. When the woman of the house falls ill, the household falls ill. Care well for yourself and do not neglect those odd aches and weird bodily symptoms which don’t seem to go away.

For the bright and creative women out there, life really does begin at 40. You’re peaking in your career, the children are grown up, your finances are secure, and you finally have a voice in the world. Do not let your hormones hold you back. As late anthropologist Margaret Mead once said, “There is no more creative force in the world than the menopausal woman with zest”.

In the decade from our mid-40s to mid-50s, women experience a sea-tide of changes taking over their skin and body. Most of these changes are unpleasant and unattractive. You will notice your skin getting dry, your face starting to sag around the jowls and the corners of the lips, your breasts may be sore, and you notice age spots on your skin along with facial hair. Hair gets dry and thin, especially over the top of the head. One tends to gain weight easily, your digestion is poorer, and you feel bloated and gassy. Your libido starts to wane, bad breath and gum problems leave you feeling undesirable, and vaginal dryness can make you uncomfortable during intercourse. Your eyes give away your age, as one tends to develop lines and puffy bags under the eyes. Fine lines and wrinkles appear, and your skin loses its youthful suppleness. Hot flashes can leave you insomniac, reduced bone density can leave you vulnerable to fractures from minor injuries, and loss of bladder control can shatter your confidence. Hormone fluctuations can also leave you irritable and absent-minded, which can affect your personal relations and the quality of your work. Your hormones can also leave your skin more prone to itches and allergies.

What is menopause and peri-menopause, and why does it happen? Peri-menopause is the period in your 40s, when your ovaries start to shut down reproductive function. This mean, your ovaries no longer produce viable eggs, estrogen production is low, and this signals the end of the fertile period in a woman’s life. Your periods now come at longer intervals with irregular flow. This is a natural consequence of ageing, and no woman is immune. Clinically speaking, a woman has reached menopause, if she has not had her period for 12 consecutive months (provided she is not pregnant or nursing, and has an intact uterus). There is no fixed age for this. It can occur at any age from 45 to 55. Some women may reach “early” menopause due to genetic factors, stress, cigarette smoking, illness, surgeries or medications. A woman may have her uterus surgically removed for any number of reasons, which means her periods will cease and she cannot bear a child anymore. But as long as the ovaries are not removed, your body is still producing the estrogen hormone, and one does not experience the symptoms of menopause. However, if a woman’s ovaries are surgically removed as well, then she can be prematurely accelerated into “surgical menopause”, and her skin and body will show all the signs of premature ageing. All women have trace amounts of the male hormone Testosterone in their blood. In younger women, the level of the female hormone Estrogen is far higher in the blood, which suppresses the typical manifestations of the male hormone. But when menopause arrives, estrogen levels start to fall, and in proportion, testosterone levels begin to rise. This is why older women have a more hoarse voice, thinner hair on the scalp, and thicker hair on the face.

What are the other skin changes that occur as we age? It is common to develop little bumps and growths on the skin. Some women develop skin tags on their neck and pits. Some notice bright red, mole-like bumps on their trunk, which are created when tiny blood vessels pop into the skin. Many others note brown flat moles which look like they’re stuck onto the skin. These usually appear on the face and scalp. Dark complexioned women may develop small black warty moles on the face, especially if they run in the family. You may notice blotchy brown patches of pigmentation on your face, along with open pores and tiny broken blood vessels, which leave your skin looking uneven. Women in their 40s and 50s may start having painful acne break outs again, usually around the chin and the jawline. Some women may notice small white spots on their shins, like little pieces of porcelain chips. While these spots may look alarming and are mistaken for Leukoderma, they are usually harmless, and do not grow larger in size. You may note thick bluish swellings on your calves and the back of your thighs. These are varicose veins and they may leave the skin of your legs swollen and itchy. If you are overweight, the skin of your groins may turn red and raw from your thighs rubbing together constantly. If the raw area gets infected, it starts to smell foul. At 60 plus, your skin is very thin and fragile, so one tends to bruise easily.

Who would have thought Estrogen was such a powerful hormone? Falling blood estrogen levels also takes a toll on your body. Estrogen keeps cholesterol levels low, and does not allow blood cells to stick together. This is why heart attacks and heart diseases are less common in young women, compared to men the same age. But after menopause, your cholesterol levels begin to rise, and menopausal women are just as prone to heart disease, as men their age. Estrogen keeps our immune system in check, and our bones strong. It regulates your circulation, your body temperature, your sleep cycles, and maintains muscle tone in the pelvic area.

So how does one cope with all these changes? We cannot cajole our ovaries into producing more estrogen. So how can we replace it from external sources? Some doctors might suggest Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT). HRT replaces the hormones that your body can no longer produce. These hormones can be taken as pills or injections, or applied onto the skin as creams or patches. The estrogen in this case, is usually derived from the urine of pregnant mares. There are side effects though. HRT users are more prone to strokes and cancer of the breast and uterus. If you have blood relatives who have had breast or uterine cancer, you must inform your doctor before you go on HRT. All recent studies indicate that HRT must be only used to manage severe menopausal symptoms, in the lowest effective dose and only for short periods of time. HRT must never be used to treat just skin and ageing related issues. For vaginal issues, an estrogen cream is preferred over pills. For women suffering from bone thinning, calcium and Vitamin D supplements must be the first treatment of choice. Use non-hormonal medications to treat hot flashes. And combining estrogen with other hormones like progeterone or testosterone, can balance out the side effects.

Are there any natural sources of Estrogen? Herbal and Naturopathy preparations are available over the counter, sometimes as ‘supplements’. But there are no long term studies which prove the safety or effectiveness of these therapies. Logic dictates that if these supplements work like Estrogen, they must have the side-effects of Estrogen as well. So can I take small doses of Estrogen every day in my daily diet? Yes, there are several plant-based sources of natural Estrogen. Hummus, flaxseeds, soy milk, tofu, sesame and sunflower seeds, alfalfa sprouts, yams and dried apricots and prunes contain natural Estrogens called Phytoestrogens. Of course, this does not mean you should eat a pound of hummus every day! In fact, keeping your weight in check can help lessen the severity of many symptoms of menopause. Regular exercise can strengthen your bones and keep your heart and digestion healthy. Use a sunscreen to avoid age spots and minimize wrinkles. You might need heavier and creamier moisturizers containing urea, squalene, petrolatum and/or sodium hyaluronate. Well-moisturized skin looks youthful and is less prone to wrinkling. You must increase the amount of fat in your diet. Yes, you heard me right. But choose the right kind of fats, and stay away from animal fats (including butter). Omega-3 fatty acids from fatty fish (cods, salmons, sardines), olive oil, safflower oil, flaxseed and canola oil, will keep your skin healthy, cholesterol low, and memory sharp. Yoga and meditation can keep stress levels low, keep mood swings in check, and help you sleep better. Use anti-ageing creams with ingredients like Retinol, AHA, Ubiquinone/Coenzyme Q, Antioxidants etc. Ugly moles and growths can be zapped off with laser treatments; so can age spots and unwanted facial hair. Visit your dentist every quarter for a thorough clean-up. Get regular check-ups from your gynecologist, and ask her to teach you how to do a breast self-examination test. It is wise to get mammograms and PAP smears done every 3 years; more often if breast and cervical cancer runs in your family. Use ammonia free hair color, and if you have allergic or sensitive skin, use vegetable based hair dyes. Facial massages and radiofrequency based dermatological treatments can keep your skin tight and toned. A good body massage by a trained chiropractor can help relieve aches and pains.

Acupressure still has a lot of fans. Herbal drinks containing green tea, hibiscus, kava, ginseng or chamomile, have a soothing effect, keep weight in check, and give good sleep. Do your Kegel exercises and use water-based lubricants for a healthy sex-life. And most importantly, preserve your outlook and your sense of humor as you cope with the challenges of menopause!