Author: dermisskin

Hyperhidrosis is the medical term for excessive sweating; a condition that affects millions of people worldwide, causing them physical discomfort and unwarranted distress. If you, too, suffer from excessive sweating and feel overwhelmed, you have come to the right place. This blog post aims to provide you with comprehensive information about hyperhidrosis, its causes, effects on the autonomic system, and the recommended treatments. I hope that by gaining a thorough knowledge of the condition, you can make informed decisions about tackling it and lead a healthier and happier life.

So lets get the lowdown……

What is Hyperhidrosis and How Does the Autonomic System Affect It?

Hyperhidrosis is a medical condition characterised by abnormally excessive sweating not related to heat or physical activity. The root cause of hyperhidrosis is related to the autonomic nervous system, the part of the body which manages the sweat gland activity. It is responsible for stimulating the body’s “fight or flight” response, resulting in increased sweat production for some individuals. This excessive sweating can be a highly distressing experience, potentially leading to self-isolation and negatively impacting one’s professional and personal life.

Treatments

Treatments fall into a few categories. 1) Topical treatments such as antiperspirants and lotions, 2) Oral medications which mediate the activity of the autonomic nervous system, 3) Injectables such as botulinum toxin and 4) conservative management (do nothing but given as you are here reading this article, I will assume this is not an option you wish to continue pursuing).

Pharmacological Treatments for Hyperhidrosis

1. Antiperspirants: The simplest form of treatment, over-the-counter or prescription-strength antiperspirants, can sometimes help manage mild hyperhidrosis. Aluminum-based antiperspirants are recommended as they block the sweat ducts and reduce perspiration.

2. Oral medications: Certain medications, such as anticholinergics and beta-blockers, can help control excessive sweating. Anticholinergics, like glycopyrrolate, block the neurotransmitter responsible for triggering sweat gland activation. Beta-blockers, on the other hand, can help reduce anxiety-induced hyperhidrosis. It is crucial to consult your doctor before starting any oral medication as these can interfere with other medication and have side effects such as hypotension (low blood pressure, fainting, urinary retention and dry mouth).

Botulinum Toxin Injections

A highly effective treatment method for hyperhidrosis is botulinum toxin type A injections (Botox). This MHRA-approved treatment involves injecting small amounts of botulinum toxin into the affected areas, such as the armpits, hairline or the palms of your hands. The toxin blocks the nerves responsible for stimulating the sweat glands – effectively paralysing them. The treatment’s effects are temporary, usually lasting for around 4-8 months, after which time, repeat injections may be necessary.

Risks and Benefits of Each Treatment

1. Antiperspirants: The benefits of using antiperspirants include simple, non-invasive application, affordability, and accessibility. However, some individuals may develop skin irritation, and these products may not be capable of fully controlling excessive sweating in every patient; after all, we are all different right?

2. Oral medications: The advantage of oral medications is their relatively quick and non-invasive nature. However, they might cause side effects like dry mouth, constipation, dizziness, and blurred vision. Moreover, their effectiveness varies from person to person.

3. Botulinum Toxin Injections: These injections have a high success rate in treating hyperhidrosis and usually provide relief for several months. However, they can cause temporary discomfort, swelling, or bruising at the injection site. In rare cases, the toxin might spread to other areas, causing muscle weakness, double vision, or difficulty swallowing – although, in the hands of an experienced injector, this is rare.

So, to conclude; managing hyperhidrosis is possible with an array of treatment methods now available, and these are evolving all the time! Understanding that its root cause lies in the autonomic system will help you make informed decisions about the best treatment option for your individual needs. Speak to your doctor about your condition, explore the available treatments, and confidently take the first step towards relief from excessive sweating. You deserve to live a comfortable, fulfilling life without the burden of hyperhidrosis.

Keywords: hyperhidrosis, botulinum toxin, sweating, antiperspirants, betablocker, anticholinergic, autonomic nervous system

What is microneedling?

Microneedling is a popular and effective cosmetic treatment that involves the use of a device with tiny needles to create thousands of microscopic channels (controlled damage) in the skin surface. This process stimulates the skin’s natural healing process, triggering the collagenoneogenesis cascade; leading to an increase in collagen and elastin production, which helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines, smooth wrinkles, and improve the appearance of scars.

The process of microneedling dates back to the early 1990s when a tattoo artist in California began using a tattoo needle to create small punctures in the skin to try and reduce the appearance of scars. Dermatologists soon realised that this technique could be used to treat a range of skin concerns, including scarring, hyperpigmentation, and fine lines – especially with more needles used – and thus microneedling as we know it was born.

More modern SkinPen

Traditional dermaroller

Over the years, microneedling devices have evolved, with newer models featuring adjustable needle lengths, increased needle numbers, coated needles and specialised attachments for treating specific areas of the face and body. More recently the skin pen device was developed, which means a much more comfortable treatment for clients than the original tattoo needle devices and roller devices.

Recently, radio frequency microneedling has emerged as an even more advanced form of the treatment. This technique combines traditional microneedling with radio frequency energy, which heats the skin’s deeper layers, stimulating collagen and elastin production. Radio frequency microneedling is particularly effective for treating skin laxity, muscle tone, and fine lines around the eyes, mouth, and forehead.

Famous names who admit to using microneedling include Jennifer Aniston, Brad Pitt, Gwyneth Paltrow, Kim Kardashian, Demi Moore, Angelina Jolie and closer to home: Shirley Ballas. The head judge on “Strictly Come Dancing,” recently revealed that she has been undergoing radio frequency microneedling to keep her skin looking youthful. Ballas noted that the treatment has helped to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, leaving her skin looking smoother and more radiant. Kim Kardashian has used microneedling in conjunction with PRP and also with radio frequency to help with pigmentation and tightening of her skin.

So, in conclusion, microneedling and radio frequency microneedling are powerful tools for improving the appearance of the skin. By stimulating collagen and elastin production, these treatments can help to reduce the signs of aging, scarring, stretch marks, hyperpigmentation, and may other other skin concerns. Whether you are a celebrity like Shirley Ballas or an everyday person looking to improve your skin’s appearance, microneedling and radio frequency microneedling may be the right treatments for you.

Keywords: Microneedling, radio frequency, vampire facial, PRP, skin rejuvenation, stretch marks, scars, fine lines, wrinkles.

Introduction

Testosterone is an important hormone that plays a role in many aspects of a woman’s health. It is produced primarily in the ovaries and adrenal glands, and is responsible for regulating a woman’s energy levels, libido, and reproductive function. While testosterone levels naturally decline with age, some women may experience a decrease in testosterone levels due to certain medical conditions or lifestyle factors. In these cases, testosterone supplementation may be recommended to help restore healthy levels of the hormone. In this blog post, we will discuss the role of testosterone in women, how it works, where it is made, what happens when levels are low, and whether it is safe to use.

What is Testosterone?

Testosterone is a hormone produced primarily, in females, in the ovaries and adrenal glands. It is responsible for regulating a woman’s energy levels, libido, and reproductive function. Testosterone is also important for maintaining muscle mass, bone density, and the production of red blood cells. In addition, it helps regulate mood and cognitive function.

How Does Testosterone Work?

Testosterone works by binding to androgen receptors in the body. These receptors are found in the brain, bones, muscles, and other tissues. When testosterone binds to these receptors, it triggers a cascade of biochemical reactions that result in the production of proteins and other molecules that are necessary for normal bodily functions.

Where is Testosterone Made?

Testosterone is primarily produced in the ovaries and adrenal glands in women. The ovaries produce the majority of testosterone in women, while the adrenal glands produce a smaller, supplementary, amount. In men, the testes produce the majority of testosterone.

What Happens When Testosterone Levels are Low?

When testosterone levels are low, this is generally related to reduced ovarian function, and some women may experience a variety of symptoms, including fatigue, low libido, depression, and difficulty concentrating. In addition, she may also experience decreased muscle mass and bone density, as well as decreased production of red blood cells. Low levels of testosterone are felt differently by different individuals. Some women may have a normal free testosterone and feel no difference at all but others may notice a very small decrease; the reasons for this are multifactorial.

Is it Safe to Use Testosterone?

Testosterone supplementation is generally safe and effective when used under the supervision of a healthcare provider. It is important to monitor blood levels of free testosterone to ensure they are kept within a normal range for a woman when used as part of HRT. it is also important to note that testosterone supplementation can cause side effects, such as acne, hair loss ad weight gain. Therefore, it is important to discuss the potential risks and benefits of testosterone supplementation with a healthcare provider before starting treatment. Of note, the effects of testosterone supplementation are not expected to be felt for around 3-6 months after starting so it is important that a follow up within this time-frame is arranged. Also, presently, testosterone replacement is only recognised for treatment of Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD) – low libido – although there are may other beneficial effects that have been noted in studies that have shown a relationship to improvement in cognition, mood, energy levels and musculoskeletal health .

Conclusion

Testosterone is an important hormone that plays a role in many aspects of a woman’s health. While testosterone levels naturally decline with age, some women may experience a decrease in testosterone levels due to certain medical conditions, medication, surgical procedures or lifestyle factors. In these cases, testosterone supplementation may be recommended to help restore healthy levels of the hormone. It is important to discuss the potential risks and benefits of testosterone supplementation with a healthcare provider before starting treatment.

Keywords: Testosterone, Women, Libido, Energy Levels, Muscle Mass, Bone Density, Androgen Receptors, Testosterone Supplementation, Side Effects.

Now that I am planning to start offering private consultations and management of menopause, including HRT prescriptions, I thought it might be useful to give a brief overview of HRT: what it is, how it is used, why it is used and what is it’s safety profile to help women judge whether this might be the thing they need to help with bothersome (and in some cases, devastating) symptoms or peri-menopause and menopause.

Is HRT safe to use?

The decision to use hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is an important one. It can help relieve symptoms of menopause, but it can also cause serious side effects. So, is HRT safe to use?

The answer to this question depends on a variety of factors, including your age, overall health, certain medical conditions and the type of HRT you are considering. To make an informed decision, it is important to understand the potential risks, benefits and types of HRT.

In this blog post, I hope to explore the safety of HRT, the types of HRT available, and the potential risks and benefits of using your chosen HRT. We will also discuss the importance of talking to your doctor about HRT.

1. What is HRT?

HRT is a medication that is used to treat the many symptoms of menopause. It works by replacing the hormones that the body stops producing at the onset of peri-menopause; oestrogen, progesterone, and testosterone. This medication helps with maintaining a woman’s overall health (cardiovascular, reproductive tract, urinary tract and mental health) as well as symptomatic relief of menopausal and peri-menopausal symptoms.

2. Types of HRT available

There are several types of HRT available, including oral pills, vaginal pills (pessaries), patches, gels, sprays, injections, intra-uterine devices (IUS, Marina etc) and implants. Each form of HRT has its own set of risks and benefits, so it is important to talk to your doctor about which is right for you. For women with a uterus (womb), it is important to note that HRT must include progesterone as well as the oestrogen component to protect against endometrial cancers. Testosterone remains controversial within the medical community in the treatment of HRT although there are many evidence-based studies coming up from reliable sources and published within the BMS (British Menopause Society) confirming the importance of the role of testosterone and its use within in HRT for managing things such as energy levels, vaginal health and managing recurrent UTIs (urinary tract infections); so not just sex drive!

3. Potential Risks and Benefits of HRT

HRT can help reduce the major symptoms of menopause; including hot flushes (or flashes if you are feeling American), night sweats, and vaginal dryness. And also the lesser discussed symptoms such as brain fog, reduced energy levels, libido and dry skin. It can also help reduce the risk of osteoporosis and cardiovascular (heart) disease. However, there are also potential risks associated with HRT, including a small increased risk of stroke, blood clots, and breast cancer – we will come to this bit later on in this blog and I will eventually write a more concise blog discussing this topic at a later date.

4. Talking to Your Doctor

It is important to talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of HRT relating to you, specifically, before starting treatment. Things like a medical history of clotting problems, obesity, smoking status or a family history of certain breast cancers can increase your risk of adverse events. Your doctor can help you make an informed decision about whether or not HRT is the best choice for you and also talk you through alternative measures you can take.

Questions to consider asking your GP when discussing HRT:

• with my medical history, would HRT be a sensible option for me?
• what are the risks and benefits to me if I took HRT to treat my symptoms?
• how would HRT help me with my symptoms, what are the benefits to me?
• what alternatives to HRT are there?
• what would be the best dose to start on? Is this the lowest dose?
• what forms of HRT might be best for me and how do I start?

**The risks of HRT with regards to breast cancer have been heavily played up over the years and whilst, yes, HRT can increase the overall risk of breast cancer if used for 5 years or more, the overall benefit is considered to far outweigh the risk of taking it. In women using unopposed oestrogen (oestrogen only), there is fact a decrease in the risk of breast cancer! As I said before, I will do a blog discussing risks of breast cancers, HRT and other lifestyle risks that affect a women’s risk of developing breast cancer in her lifetime**

5. Conclusion

HRT can be a safe and effective treatment for menopausal symptoms. However, it is important to understand the potential risks and benefits as they relate to you, before starting HRT. Talk to your doctor and discuss the potential risks and benefits in your own case, to make an informed decision about whether or not HRT is right for you. HRT is nothing to be afraid of anymore and there is a lot of evidence that lifelong HRT is the way forwards. I know what my choice will be when my time comes, do you?

Keywords: Hormone Replacement Therapy, HRT, Menopause, Risks, Benefits, menopause, peri-menopause, British Menopause Society, risks, evidence from BMS

When it comes to cosmetic treatments, there is a lot of confusion surrounding Botox and fillers. Many people think that the two treatments are the same, but that is not the case. Botox and fillers are both popular cosmetic treatments, but they are used for different purposes and have different effects.

I thought it would be helpful to talk through these two different treatments to help explain the differences and make your choices more clear. For ease, we will be using the term ‘Botox’ to describe the neurotoxin botulinum toxin type A which is the actual name of the toxin we inject into you (Botox is the brand name of one of the first toxins bought to the market used for cosmetic purposes – see section one). There are 7 types (A-G) of botulinum toxin which are used for various purposes from hyperhidrosis to cervical dystonia and spasticity.

In the first section, we will discuss what Botox and fillers are and how they are used. In the second section, we will look at the differences between the two treatments. In the third section, we will discuss the benefits and risks associated with each treatment. In the fourth section, we will explore the cost of Botox and fillers. Finally, in the fifth section, we will discuss who is the best candidate for each treatment.

What are Botox and Fillers?

Botox is a type of neurotoxin that is injected into the skin to reduce wrinkles and fine lines. It works by blocking the signals between the nerves and the muscles, preventing the muscles from contracting and causing wrinkles. Currently there are 3 brands of botulinum toxin licenced for use in the UK; these are 1) Botox (aka Vistabel), 2) Bocouture (aka Xeomin), and 3) Azzalure (aka Dysport). If anything other than this if offered to you then run because it is likely to be a cheap, unlicensed alternative (and there are many of these imported from Asia)! Fillers, on the other hand, are injected into the skin to add volume and fill in wrinkles and fine lines. The most common type of filler is hyaluronic acid, which is a synthetic version of a naturally occurring substance found in healthy skin cells that helps to keep skin hydrated and plump.

What are the Differences Between Botox and Fillers

The biggest difference between Botox and fillers is the purpose of each treatment. Botox is used to reduce wrinkles and fine lines, while fillers are used to add volume and fill in wrinkles and fine lines. Botox is a prescription only medication whilst fillers are not. Again, if you have not consulted with a medically trained, prescribing practitioner then you are not being injected with a validated, authorised toxin. Another difference is the type of product used. Botox is a type of neurotoxin, while fillers are usually made of hyaluronic acid or other substances such as calcium hydroxyapetite.

What are the Benefits and Risks of Botox and Fillers

The main benefit of Botox and fillers is that they can help to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. Both treatments are generally safe, but there are some risks associated with them. Botox can cause bruising, swelling, and redness at the injection site as well as uneven results, while fillers can cause lumpiness, bruising, redness and in rare cases, vascular occlusion (cell death due to the blood vessels being injected into and blocked by filler). These risks can be managed effectively by a well trained provider and you should always check there is a protocol in place to address any adverse effects and that the provider is well versed in how to manage these situations. Bruising, swelling and redness is usually short-lived and can be managed with anti-inflammatories, ice and arnica.

What are the Costs of Botox and Fillers

The cost of Botox and fillers can vary depending on the type of treatment and the area being treated. Generally, Botox is more expensive than fillers relative to the amounts used, but the cost of both treatments can range from a few hundred pounds to several thousand pounds depending on the area being injected (and the risk the practitioner undertakes thereof), the quality of the product used and any offers that may be on at the time. If you are offered filler for anything less than £200 then it will not be a validated, high-quality product because a good filler cannot be purchased by the injector for less than this, let alone factoring in any profit. Again if you see an offer this ‘good’ -run; because it is anything but good!

Who is the Best Candidate for Botox and Fillers?

The best candidate for Botox and fillers is someone who is looking to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. Both treatments are generally safe for most people, but it is important to consult with a doctor before undergoing any cosmetic treatment. The use of ‘preventative Botox’ is growing in popularity and this is perfect for those in their early 30s (and in some cases, late 20s) who are looking to prevent the development of lines and wrinkles within the next few years. This is proving to be a very effective treatment to keep us looking as though we have lived an organic, angelic youth (no, I did NOT spend my formative years drinking, smoking and staying up til morning to fall asleep in the sun!! 🤔 ). Fillers are being increasingly used to help augment and highlight certain features such as lips, cheeks or even improving dark circles and under-eye bags. Interestingly, the most common age group in my clinics to have lip injections are people (that’s right, men and women because we all love a pretty set of lips) is froom age 40-60 years of age.

In conclusion, Botox and fillers are both popular cosmetic treatments, but they are used for different purposes and have different effects. Botox is used to reduce wrinkles and fine lines, while fillers are used to add volume and fill in wrinkles and fine lines. Both treatments can be beneficial, but it is important to consult with a doctor before undergoing any cosmetic treatment. Currently, in Dermis Skin Aesthetic’s clinics, Bocouture is the toxin I offer and fillers will either be Aliaxin or Belotero.

Keywords: Botox, Fillers, Cosmetic Treatments, Wrinkles, Fine Lines, Hyaluronic Acid, Risks, Benefits, Cost, Best Candidate