Skincare and UV Analysis: Imaging Technology Meets Skin Care

Skincare-News.com exposes a shocking new form of photography. Known as a skin scanner, skin scope or complexion analysis tool, this special camera digitally captures two images of the skin to reveal the damage that lurks underneath the surface.

Sacramento, CA (PRWEB) May 19, 2008 -- Skincare has reached the scientific age, with techniques and treatments that are more advanced then ever. Skincare-News.com's latest article, "Imaging Technology and Skin," explains the benefits a new treatment that will benefit every skin type: imaging technology.
http://www.skincare-news.com/articles.php?ArtID=566

UV rays: no friend to the skin
A huge threat to skin is UV rays from the sun, both UVA and UVB. Because UVA rays are longer, they're absorbed into deeper layers of skin and are associated with age-related damage, such as lines and wrinkles, and skin cancer. As noted in The New York Times, UVA rays can penetrate glass, so it's possible to suffer skin damage indoors or in the car!

In contrast, shorter UVB rays, which don't penetrate the skin as deeply, are responsible for sunburn, but can also contribute to cancer. Don't be fooled--even short periods of sun exposure can lead to environmental damage. UV rays harm cells' DNA and cause mutations leading to cancer. And with melanoma rates skyrocketing: a whopping 690 percent between 1950 and 2001, says MSNBC, there is no time to waste in protecting the skin from excessive sun expose.
A skin scanner actually captures two images of the skin. One image uses visible light and shows skin as it appears to the naked eye. The other uses UV light to show sub-surface UV damage, believed to be an indication of where skin will wrinkle and sag or develop cancer in the future. Skin color, bacteria levels and pore size are displayed, plus, the camera shows the amount of moisture and elasticity in skin.

Fortunately, in addition to having one of these photos taken, there are many precautions against UV damage, aging and skin cancer:
· Use broad-spectrum, SPF 15 or higher sunscreen to defend the skin against UVA/UVB rays. And don't be stingy: the average adult will need to use at least two tablespoons of sunscreen for face to ensure full protection. Antioxidants like vitamins C and E enhance the effects of sunscreen for even greater UV protection.
· Stay indoors from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, typically when the sun's rays are the strongest.
· Wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses are added protection for eyes and face.
· Avoid tanning beds and booths and instead, opt for a self-tanner to get a golden, beachy glow.
· For the car, window tinting filters out a high percentage of UVA rays. Check with the local Motor Vehicle Department to determine how dark car windows may legally be tinted in a particular state, and for the back seat, consider window shades with suction-cups.
Undoing damage

After seeing, chances are good that most people don't like that UV damage. Good news -- there are many options for improving or correcting this damage. But don't expect miracles, it can take weeks or months before noticing a difference, based on the damage to the skin.
1. To revitalize skin tone, try hydroquinone, a chemical which suppress the melanin production in the skin (which causes dark spots and marks). Hydroquinone can treat surface and deeper spots, as well.
2. Microdermabrasion exfoliates away outer skin layers -- including damaged and spotted skin -- with aluminum oxide crystals.
3. Head to the dermatologist for a prescription option. Retinol creams will target fine lines, wrinkles and uneven tone while medical-grade anti-oxidant treatments will deliver prescription-strength protection to the skin.

Skincare-News.com covers all skincare and beauty topics from head to toe. Check out these latest articles:

Almonds and Almond Oil
http://www.skincare-news.com/articles.php?ArtID=551
Almonds are tree nuts, along with cashews and walnuts. When used in beauty products, almonds are blended, ground or chopped into a very fine consistency. What about almond oil? Pure essential oils come from plant leaves, bark or fruit -- in this case, from the almond. Specifically, these oils have very small molecules, so they're easily absorbed into skin's pores. Typically, ground or chopped almonds are found in scrubs used for exfoliating. In addition, many companies feature almond oil in products that moisturize and hydrate, like body oils, lotions and creams.

Lactic Acid
http://www.skincare-news.com/articles.php?ArtID=547
Lactic acid is part of the alpha hydroxy acid (or AHA) family, which includes ingredients derived from sugar cane, fruit and milk. Similar to the widely popular AHA glycolic acid, lactic acid reduces fine lines, wrinkles, age spots and hyperpigmentation while improving the skin's texture and promoting collagen production. But unlike glycolic acid, lactic acid typically doesn't cause allergic reactions or irritation

Shea Butter
http://www.skincare-news.com/articles.php?ArtID=542
Natural skincare products are becoming increasingly popular, and one natural ingredient that's quickly earning a reputation for its soothing, hydrating qualities is shea butter, even though it's been around for centuries. Many skincare products are touted as "natural," yet few offer the many benefits of shea butter with its ability to treat skin concerns such as dry, itchy skin, stretch marks and wrinkles and conditions like eczema and psoriasis. Also, because it's filled with antioxidants, shea butter not only moisturizes the skin but also keeps it healthy and radiant. Rediscover shea butter here.

Mushroom Extract
http://www.skincare-news.com/articles.php?ArtID=538
While Americans may be surprised to learn that mushrooms are rich in healing properties, dozens of other cultures around the world have enjoyed their benefits for centuries. More recently, medical research in the U.S. has caught on to the shiitake mushroom's numerous health benefits, with some surprising results. Research suggests the shiitake mushroom boosts immunity, lowers cholesterol and treats cancer. And it has many benefits for the skin.

About SkinCare-News.com -- "Your Source for Intelligent Skin Care"
Skincare-News.com is the online source for consumers seeking intelligent beauty and skin care news, advice, tips and articles. Founded in 2005, SkinCare-News.com features articles, news items and frequently asked questions on skincare and beauty related issues. SkinCare-News.com is located in Sacramento, California, but receives visitors from all around the world. For more information, visit http://www.skincare-news.com.

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