FDA Accepts Application for Innovative Rosacea Treatment Gel

Rosacea is a common skin disorder in the United States and is identified by excessive redness of the skin, along with transient papules and pustules. This chronic skin condition affects about 14 million Americans and cause significant psychological and self-esteem problems if it is left untreated. Current rosacea treatments include Intense Pulsed Light therapy (IPL) and topical ointments. However, the FDA is currently reviewing a new drug by Sol-Gel Technologies that may offer multiple benefits for rosacea patients.

Sol-Gel has developed the DER45-EV Gel, a topical solution designed to enhance the efficacy and stability of topical drugs by creating a protective barrier between the drug and the skin. According to Dr. Stanley Shapiro, Sol-Gel’s Head of Skin Care Science and Technology, “As Sol-Gel’s microcapsulation forms a protective barrier between the drug and the skin, we expect it to reduce irritation when applied to the relatively sensitive skin of rosacea patients.”

The FDA has acknowledged receipt of this drug as an Investigational New Drug Application (IND) for the topical treatment of rosacea. People who were eligible for this study had to be 18 years of older, have facial rosacea with 15 or more inflammatory lesions, have moderate or severe ratings (a 3 or 4) of rosacea on the IGA, and could not have any allergies or sensitivities to ingredients in the test product. The gel was applied topically once per day to the facial area only for a course of 12 weeks. Women who were pregnant, breast feeding or planning pregnancy, and those with other dermatological conditions of the face were excluded from the trial.

The Sol-Gel study was first received on July 14, 2009 and is currently under review by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. More information about the latest rosacea treatments and dermatologic solutions for patients with rosacea can be found here.

AAD Warns Famers to Pay Attention to New Moles

Farmers, construction workers and other people that work outside for extended periods of time are encouraged to pay attention to new moles that appear on their skin, and to undertake a rigorous sun protection regimen.

The American Academy of Dermatology recently issued a warning to farmers, encouraging them to pay special attention to suspicious moles. Dermatologists report that farmers that develop the infamous ‘farmer’s tan’ are at an increased risk of skin cancer because of excessive exposure to UV radiation.

The president of the American Academy of Dermatology, David M. Pariser MD states that, “More than 11,000 Americans die each year from skin cancer, but when detected early, skin cancer has a cure rate of 99 percent…Since research shows farmers are among the least likely workers to receive a skin examination by a physician, it’s important that farmers perform regular skin self-examinations, which could mean the difference between life and death.”

Farmers need to look for moles on their back, scalp, palms of the hands, and also on the soles of their feet. Moles can appear anywhere on the body,  and a thorough examination can be performed by a physician once every few months. Characteristics of moles that should be checked by a physician are: asymmetrical moles, irregularly shaped or scalloped moles, moles that vary in color, moles that are larger than the size of a pencil eraser, and moles that are changing in size, shape or color. If a single mole looks different from the rest, it should be checked by a dermatologist.

The American Academy of Dermatology offers a mole map online to help individuals keep track of their moles and changes over time. The mole map can be found here. Other ways to minimize skin cancer include seeking shade between 10 a.m. to 4 p.m, wearing protective clothing, and wearing  broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15.

Boston University Reports Dermatologic Surgery on the Rise

Researchers from Boston University School of Medicine and the Laser and Skin Cancer Center of Indiana have been studying the number of dermatologic procedures performed and tracking patient demand since 2000, and a recent report published in Dermatologic Surgery has found that the “Baby Boomer” generation is leading demand for certain procedures over the past decade.

The report published in Dermatologic Surgery shows that the number of cosmetic and non-cosmetic surgical procedures performed by dermatologic surgeons has been rising rapidly in recent years. An estimated 3.4 million cosmetic and non-cosmetic surgical procedures were performed in 2001, and a total of 7.6 million procedures were performed in 2007. This translates to a 120 percent growth rate over those seven years, and the greatest increase in procedures in that period was for soft tissue augmentation, Botox injections, and non-ablative resurfacing procedures.

Experts say the increase in demand is not only the result of more consumers being able to pay for the often-pricey procedures, but because many dermatologists have started emphasizing the importance of skin cancer prevention, and are offering a wide range of anti-aging services for those who want to reverse or slow down the signs of aging.

Dermatologists can now treat a number of severe skin conditions, manage skin cancer lesions, and also help reduce the effects of photoaging. Dermatologists today are also expanding the types of services they can perform, with many offering minimally invasive procedures such as Botox, laser skin rejuvenation and other injectables. Compared to 2001, this is a significant shift in service options.

Advances in laser and light devices have also contributed to the increase of completed procedures, and more dermatologists are taking the time to complete the training programs for the latest devices. This has allowed more people in major cities and markets to try the newest procedures as soon as they hit the market.

NanoBio Corp. Unveils Innovative Acne Treatment

Today’s innovative acne treatments include blue light therapy and Isolaz laser acne treatments, but these aggressive treatments may not be necessary if a new topical product makes its way into the consumer market.

NanoBio Corporation, a privately held biopharmaceutical company based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, revealed new data about its innovative nanoemulsion-based product for the treatment of acne at the Academy of Dermatology Summer Meeting in Boston the week of July 29. The NB-003 product works by targeting the oil-producing glands connected to the hair follicle, and treating the infection site by killing the microbes on contact. It is the first of its kind to reach deep within into the skin tissues and kill bacteria within seconds, and will be undergoing ongoing review by clinical researchers.

Acne can be triggered by a number of factors including stress, poor skin health, an unbalanced diet, or be the result of hormonal imbalances. In some cases, addressing the root cause of the problem can help. However, many people are not able to trace the cause of the problem and must pursue an ‘outside in’ approach to achieve healthier skin. This may include the application of topical retinoids, taking oral contraceptives, or undergoing a series of laser or light treatments.

If this topical acne treatment is successful, many patients will no longer need to take birth control pills to manage their acne symptoms, or undergo expensive laser or blue light therapy acne treatments to keep breakouts under control.

NanoBio Corp. has been developing other types of anti-infective products to treat cold sores, tinea capitis, cystic fibrosis and nail fungus. If the acne treatment becomes available in the United States, it may be an attractive alternative for many acne sufferers who have not been able to achieve results with conventional acne treatments such as topical retinoids, blue light therapy or Isolaz laser acne treatments.

Alternative Treatments for Eczema Show Promise

Treatments for eczema range from the application of topical creams and ointments to light therapy, but this chronic skin disease still remains untreatable for many.

Eczema is an inflammatory skin disease that makes the skin appear red, itchy and uncomfortable, and the condition can be triggered by a number of causes. Some patients are now seeking out alternative treatments that help to reduce the symptoms and make eczema easier to manage.

According to a presentation by dermatologist Peter A. Lio M.D., FAAD, assistant professor of dermatology and pediatrics at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine in Chicago at the American Academy of Dermatology’s Summer Academy Meeting 2009, there are now several alternative therapy treatments that are showing promise for even the most severe eczema cases.

Dr. Lio reports that a combination of homeopathy, holistic medicine, acupuncture and dietary supplements may help to control the symptoms and may even improve overall health. However, he also states that many herbal treatments that are being marketed for the treatment of eczema are not regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, and may end up causing even more problems physically, and psychologically, for the patient.

Dr. Lio’s report concludes that some alternative therapies that help to reduce stress may offer benefits to some patients because they reduce the risk of triggering an eczema outbreak. Emotional stress can have a negative effect on those with skin disorders, so alternative health treatments such as acupuncture and hypnosis may help to reduce stress and thereby improve the condition of the skin.

Patients are warned to exercise caution when pursuing alternative treatments for managing their eczema, and to consult with their dermatologist before making any changes to their health and skincare routine. Dr. Lio says that it is still important to continue with the dermatologist-recommended medical regimen, because alternative treatments will not be able to replace clinically-tested medical treatments.

FDA Approves Emollient Foam for Atopic Dermatitis

Until now, people suffering from atopic dermatitis could do very little about the cracked, inflamed and dry skin associated with the disease. Dermatologists around the country have only been able to offer rich moisturizers and topical treatments to help keep the skin soft and moisturized. However, a recent product called HYLATOPIC has been designed specifically for patients with atopic dermatitis, and works at a deeper level by absorbing directly into the skin within seconds.

HYLATOPIC received FDA approval in 2009, and is an emollient foam designed to manage the burning, itching and pain associated with various types of dermatitis. The product has been developed by Onset  Therapeutics, a specialty pharmaceutical company that specializes in dermatology treatments, and is a non-steroidal prescription treatment that is now available in the United States.

The foam works by penetrating beneath the top layer of skin within seconds of application, and then creates a semi-permeable barrier that protects the skin against excessive water loss and irritants in the environment. For people suffering from atopic dermatitis, this means that the product acts as a shield against environmental toxins and also helps support the skin’s natural recovery process. With regular use, the patient can expect to achieve softer, healthier-looking skin.

Michael Heffernan, the President of Onset Therapeutics, explains: “It is well known that skin barrier dysfunction is a fundamental problem in atopic dermatitis patients. HYLATOPIC’s 3-step approach to hydrate, protect and restore the natural skin barrier, combined with the aesthetic and safety elements which drive compliance, assists in helping our physicians achieve the best therapeutic outcomes.”

HYLATOPIC can be used on any area of the body, and can be applied directly onto the skin using the fingertips. It does not leave any oil or residue behind, and can be applied under makeup and other skincare products.

(Source: MedicalNewsToday.com)

Scientists Develop Skin Cancer Blocking Drug

According to a study recently published in the Journal of Medicinal Chemistry, skin cancer may soon be treated with a potent drug.

Researchers at the Institute of Cancer Research (ICR) in the United Kingdom have revealed the effects of a new class of drugs that can treat malignant melanomas. The study was funded by Cancer Research UK, and the Wellcome Trust, and may be the next step in finding an effective way to stop and kill cancer cells.

Malignant melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer, and so far, cannot be treated with any type of drug. Skin cancer patients typically have to undergo extensive surgery and treatments to reduce and eliminate the cancer cells, but no one has found an effective cure.

The drug was developed after researchers traced human melanoma to the BRAF protein, a protein that stimulates the growth of melanoma cells. The drug they developed actively blocks the activity of this protein, and may be able to selectively kill the melanoma cells completely. The drug is made with chemicals called pyridoimidazalones, and a set of treatments may be effective at stopping the spread of cancer cells, and killing off cancer completely. Researchers say the recent tests have shown remarkable results on their patients and the drugs have very few – if any – side effects.

You can reduce your risk of developing malignant melanoma and various levels of skin cancer by wearing sunscreen even when the sun is not out, and avoiding excessive sun exposure. Any changes to the appearance of moles, scars and other skin pigmentation need to be screened by a professional dermatologist; early detection of skin cancer is one of the best preventative cures, and may help reduce the chances of developing a deadly cancer.

Still, there is hope for those who are going through the stages of full-blown skin cancer with drugs that will target the mutated genes.

Psoriasis Treatments Respond Best to Dual Topical Treatments

People suffering from chronic psoriasis of the skin, a condition that causes thick, red, scaly patches to develop on the skin, have several options for improving the look and feel of their skin including topical treatments and laser therapy.

A recent dermatology study now reveals that two of the most commonly-used psoriasis treatments can actually be used together to produce better results.

Topical treatments are often administered to treat large patches of skin that have not responded well to dietary or lifestyle changes. These treatments are readily absorbed into the skin’s surface, and can help to soothe inflammation and help the skin heal. According to Anne Mason, a research fellow at the Centre for Health Economics at the University of York in England, chronic plaque psoriasis can be treated with topical treatments that are applied directly to the skin in a specific sequence.

Although there is no cure for psoriasis, these treatments can help reduce the symptoms significantly. The ‘ideal’ combination for those who suffer from chronic psoriasis involves applying corticosteroid at night, and vitamin D each morning. The vitamin D products help to reduce skin irritation and can easily absorb into the skin in the morning. The corticosteroids help to strengthen thinning skin, and can help with the healing process.

Mason points out that many patients need to continue taking their prescription medication in order to achieve the best results, but they can see significant changes in their skin just by using this day-and-night regimen.

Results of this research were published in the latest issue of The Cochrane Library, one of several publications of The Cochrane Collaboration, an organization that evaluates medical research and reviews studies like these in depth. These findings offer some alternative treatment options for individuals who are suffering from severe psoriasis of the skin.

(Source: Medical News Today)

Online Support Groups Help Patients Better Manage Psoriasis

A recent study published in the Archives of Dermatology, a Journal of the American Medical Association journal, concludes that many patients suffering from skin and joint problems that result from psoriasis can improve their emotional health and well-being by participating in online support groups.

260 adults participated in a study conducted by the team at the Center for Connected Health and Massachusetts General Hospital; participants were required to use an online support site to keep up with the latest news about their health problems, and interact with community members about their health issues.

Dermatologists previously noted that many people suffering from psoriasis were embarrassed abot the problem and rarely turned to others for help.  The support groups helped many people connect with others with a similar condition, while remaining anonymous.  This helped relieve the pressure of sharing, what to them, was an incredibly embarrassing problem, and the community could serve as a positive place to manage the condition.

The official report and results of the study indicate that;

“People with chronic disease are believed to relate best to Web-based information produced by other patients. Internet support groups share common objectives with their face-to-face counterparts but have strengths and weaknesses unique to the online setting. Although online support may lack the immediacy and intensity of a group meeting, it allows members to access information at a time and place of their choice. In addition, it offers individuals the advantage of anonymity and perceived lack of judgment.”

In addition to anonymous support groups, patients can turn to local resources and workshops sponsored by the National Psoriasis Foundation that may help with copoing methods and giving patients a chance to  meet with a counselor or other patients in a face-to-face setting.

Still, for those who are not seeking help because they are embarrassed or ashamed of their condition can still turn to the Internet for a wealth of resources and valuable contacts.

Dermo-Analyzer Helps Assess Skin Conditions

Many dermatologists and aestheticians use skin analysis tools to determine the condition of the skin and offer treatment options for their patients.

However, many of these tools only provide information about the top layer, or dermis of the skin.  Dermatologists may soon be able to assess the condition of deeper layers of the skin using a device known as the Dermo-Analyzer.

Key indicators of aging skin include extensive dehydration, pigmentation, sun spots, acne scars that do not heal, and a patchy or uneven skin tone. The Dermo-Analyzer is designed to  compile these conditions and determine the individual’s skin type within minutes.  The device is capable of providing detailed feedback about the condition of the skin based on the skin’s oil distribution, color, type and light sensitivity.  The tests are used to determine the ‘real age’ of the skin, and identify any signs of premature aging.

The machine was introduced to skin practitioners and the public at the World Trade Center in Causeway Bay in December 2008, and is currently available as part of the Derma Skincare Centre treatment plan. Dermatologists often use computer-assisted skin analysis machines and computer imaging software to ‘grade’ the condition of the skin and make recommendations for appropriate treatments.

The Dermo-Analyzer is part of a state-of-the-art skincare centre that uses data from over 7,000 people. The Standard reports that: “The six main tests are for skin age, color, sensitivity type, sensitivity to light, moisturization and oil distribution. Using the data, pharmacists and skin-care advisers can offer tailor-made treatments to each individual customer.

Vichy and La-Roche Posay, the skincare company that created the device currently offer in-depth skin analysis tools on their website.  Patients answer a series of questions about their skin type to determine what their skin type is, and what products may be most suitable for them.  Questions cover the topics of acne, dehydration, aging and sun sensitivities; the Dermo-Analyzer device may help speed up this process and help skincare specialists offer a more comprehensive skin analysis and consultation.

(Photo credit: Plasmetic.com)