"Skin cancer can take 20 years or more to develop. Many forms grow slowly, but some melanomas may grow quickly." - ....Jason Rivers, MD, FRCPC is a Professor of Dermatology at the University of British Columbia

This section discusses skin problems such as cancer and advice on when to see a doctor. It is not to be used as a substitute for medical advice but only to alert your attention to signs of skin problems. Always see a doctor if you are worried about anything that visibly or sensually alarms you with your skin!

dermatitis

People working with oils in industries like engineering will incur skin problems like this such as dry itchy skin and could lead to long term problems. Dermatitis can be diagnosed into different types. Common forms are atopic dermatitis like eczema which experts believe is due to an allergic reaction, for example certain types of food. There is also contact dermatitis where you are in contact with chemicals that irritate the skin. These can build up over time like when in contact with certain types of oil which desensitizes the skin. you can also lose natural oils in the skin when in contact with jewelry over a long period which dries and itches the skin.

For diagnosing atopic dermatitis, you may be able to find the cause by having a skin-prick test which tests a number of common causes of eczema by looking at the skins reaction. For contact you need to look at your daily routine and chemicals that you come into contact with often. Examples of common complaints are soaps, detergents, fabric conditioners, shampoos, disinfectants and bleaches.

skin cancer

Looking for the signs of skin cancer can generally follow 4 signs, but always check with your doctor or dermatologist if you are worried by changes in the skins appearance. Check that the moles are asymmetric in shape. Look for differences in color and anything differing in the border of the mole. If your moles are gaining size usually bigger than a pencil eraser then this is another sign that needs checking. Lastly if the mole bleeds or itches. Remember if anything seems unusual don't take the risk and not see a specialist. They WILL NOT think you have wasted there time if the results are negative.

Certain people are thought to be more susceptible to skin cancer, like people with fair hair and skin, but generally everyone should take care in the sun wearing a suitable cream, lotion or spray that protects from the suns harmful rays. This includes tanning booths! Boots supply a good range of protection from the sun. Click here to see there product range.

Cold sores

The cause of cold soars is by a virus called herpes simplex virus know as HSV. It can be passed on by kisses and skin contact and arises on the lips and around the mouth, inner and outer, to the lower part of the nose. It can also be passed in the genitalia area. It is estimated by experts that 50% of the population are carriers of the virus, some never showing any sign of the symptoms and can past the virus on unnoticed.

Triggers of the virus include stress, a change in temperatures, exposure to the sun and a viral infection, being where the name a "cold sore" came from. It is usually felt first as a tingly or itchy feeling. This can lead to a painful and swollen area if not treated and then scab over as the body tries to heal itself. To avoid the spread of the virus and its effects refrain from licking the area as this will encourage swelling and more scabbing. Using the right creams such as zovirax or cymax when the symptoms first appear will stop the virus from triggering its harmful effects. Click here to see a range of cold sore products. So far there is no cure but stopping the virus outbreaks when they begin will save you money on treatments.

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