Christopher Vaello

Trishia Briones

English 1302-202

21 March 2023

Skincare

Introduction

Caring for skin is crucial to maintaining good health and a vibrant appearance. The

largest organ in the body, the skin, is sensitive to several environmental influences that may

harm health. Melanoma is one of the most severe risks associated with the skin, as it is a type of

skin cancer that can be fatal if not detected and treated early. Staph infections can also cause

significant harm to the skin and overall health, especially for individuals with weakened immune

systems. Eczema is another common skin condition affecting millions worldwide and can cause

considerable discomfort and embarrassment. Another common skin condition affecting millions

worldwide is dandruff, characterized by a flaky, itchy scalp. Individuals must establish a skincare

routine that suits their needs and lifestyle to maintain healthy skin and prevent these and other

skin conditions. A skincare routine can include several steps, such as cleansing, moisturizing,

and applying sunscreen, to keep the skin clean, hydrated, and protected from the sun's harmful

rays. With regular care and attention, individuals can achieve healthy, glowing skin that feels

good and looks fantastic.

Melanoma (Skin Cancer)

Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that can be fatal if not found and treated quickly.

According to the article "Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer Pathogenesis Overview" by Dario Didona,

Giovanni Paolino, Ugo Bottoni, and Carmen Cantisani, "Melanoma represents the fifth most
common cancer in men and the seventh most common in women worldwide" (Didona, Paolino,

Bottoni, Cantisani 4). Melanoma can develop from moles or appear as new pigmented lesions on

the skin. The article explains that the primary risk factors for developing melanoma include

"exposure to ultraviolet radiation, fair skin, presence of numerous moles, and a family or

personal history of melanoma" (Didona, Paolino, Bottoni, Cantisani 5). Melanoma can also

occur in individuals with darker skin tones, although it is less common. The authors emphasize

the importance of early detection and treatment, stating, "The prognosis of melanoma is related

to the stage of the disease at diagnosis, with a high survival rate for patients with early-stage

melanoma" (Didona, Paolino, Bottoni, Cantisani 6).

Furthermore, the incidence of melanoma has been rising over the past few decades,

according to the paper "Biomarkers in melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancer prevention and

risk classification" by Megan H. Trager et al. (Trager 1). The essay underlines the importance of

early identification and prevention in lowering melanoma incidence rates. Using sunscreen with

a high SPF is one approach to ward off melanoma. According to the article, sunscreen with an

SPF of 30 can reduce the risk of developing melanoma by 80%. (Trager 2). Also, routine skin

examinations by a dermatologist can help with the early diagnosis and management of

melanoma. The article also suggests that biomarkers such as gene mutations and protein

expression can assist in identifying individuals at higher risk for developing melanoma. The

report stresses the importance of prevention and early detection in reducing melanoma's

incidence and mortality rates.

Staphylococcus Aureus Infection

Staphylococcus aureus is a bacteria that lives on healthy people's skin and nasal passages.

However, in some cases, it can cause infections ranging from minor skin infections to more
severe and life-threatening conditions such as pneumonia and sepsis. According to the article

"Pathogenesis of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Infection" by Gordon and Lowy,

"Staphylococcus aureus is a significant human pathogen that causes a wide range of infections,

from relatively mild skin and soft tissue infections to life-threatening conditions such as

pneumonia, endocarditis, and sepsis" (Gordon, Lowy 1). Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus

aureus (MRSA) is a particular strain of the bacteria resistant to many commonly used antibiotics

and is, therefore, more challenging to treat. The article explains that "MRSA infections are

associated with increased morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs compared with infections

caused by methicillin-sensitive S. aureus" (Gordon, Lowy 1).

The use of antibiotics to treat Staphylococcus aureus infections in cows is discussed in

the paper "The Role of Cow, Pathogen, and Treatment Regimen in the Therapeutic Success of

Bovine Staphylococcus Aureus Mastitis" by Barkema, Schukken, and Zadoks. According to the

article, penicillin and "other beta-lactam antibiotics like cephalosporins have historically been

the preferred medications for treating S. aureus mastitis"(Barkema, Schukken, Zadoks 246).

Nevertheless, the efficacy of these antibiotics could be compromised due to the emergence of

resistance. The need to use suitable antibiotic treatment regimens is emphasized in the paper.

This includes "the use of a combination of antibiotics with different mechanisms of action and

the use of prolonged treatment duration" (Barkema, Schukken, Zadoks 246).

Eczema

Eczema is a common skin condition affecting millions worldwide and can cause

significant discomfort and embarrassment. According to the article "Management of chronic

hand eczema" by Pieter-Jan Coenraads, "Eczema is a chronic inflammatory skin disease

characterized by dryness, itching, redness, and scaling" (Coenraads 153). The article adds that
although the precise causes of eczema are unknown, a mix of hereditary and environmental

factors is considered responsible. The authors state, "Factors that may trigger or exacerbate

eczema include stress, allergens, irritants, and infection" (Coenraads 154).

Effective management of eczema requires a combination of lifestyle modifications and

medical treatment. The authors suggest that individuals with eczema should avoid triggers and

irritants, use gentle skincare products, and keep their skin hydrated. Medical treatment options

for eczema include topical corticosteroids, immunomodulators, and phototherapy. To create a

customized treatment plan, the authors stress the significance of interaction with a healthcare

provider, stating, "The treatment of eczema should be tailored to the severity of the disease, the

patient's age, medical history, and preferences" (Coenraads 157).

Acne Vulgaris

A common skin condition called acne vulgaris causes pimples, blackheads, and

whiteheads to appear on the face, neck, chest, and back. According to the article "Efficacy of a

twice-daily, 3-step, over-the-counter skin care regimen for the treatment of acne vulgaris" by

Rodan, Fields, and Falla, acne vulgaris affects approximately 85% of teenagers and young

adults. According to the report, hair follicle clogging caused by oil and dead skin cells promotes

the growth of bacteria and inflammation.

Several treatments are available for acne vulgaris, including over-the-counter (OTC)

products, prescription medications, and medical procedures. OTC products are often the first line

of defense for mild to moderate acne. The article states that "OTC acne products contain various

active ingredients, including salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, and sulfur, which can be effective

in reducing acne lesions" (Rodan 2). However, prescription medications like isotretinoin and
antibiotics may be necessary for severe cases of acne. Acne vulgaris can also be treated with

medical procedures such as chemical peels and laser therapy.

Overall, treating acne vulgaris depends on the severity of the condition and individual patient

factors. Patients should consult a dermatologist to determine the most effective treatment plan for

their specific case of acne vulgaris.

Skincare Products

A skincare product's effect on the microbiological structure and biophysical

characteristics of facial skin is examined in the article "Impact of the skincare product on facial

skin microbial structure and biophysical parameters: A pilot research" by Hwang et al. 16

healthy female participants administered the product twice daily for eight weeks as part of the

study. The findings demonstrated that the skincare product improved skin hydration and sebum

excretion and altered the skin's microbial community.

The article states that "the use of the skincare product was associated with a significant increase

in skin hydration, as indicated by the decrease in transepidermal water loss (TEWL) values"

(Hwang 3). The study also discovered that the skincare item caused a reduction in sebum

production, which can aid in treating acne and other skin disorders. According to the article, the

skincare product affected the skin's microbial ecology, altering the variety and number of

bacteria.

The effectiveness of a skincare product containing a hyaluronic acid-based serum and a

peptide-rich cream in enhancing the appearance of photodamaged skin is examined in the article

"Efficacy and tolerability of a hyaluronic acid-based serum and a peptide-rich cream for the face

and neck in subjects with photodamaged skin" by Gold, Biron, Wilson, and Nelson. According

to the study, the peptide-rich cream and hyaluronic acid-based serum significantly improved skin
hydration, firmness, and overall appearance. According to the report, "the hyaluronic acid-based

serum helped to hydrate and plump the skin, while the peptide-rich cream improved the texture

and tone of the skin" (Gold 3).

Dandruff

Dandruff is a common skin condition characterized by a flaky, itchy scalp. The exact

cause of dandruff is still unclear, but research suggests that it may be associated with the

overgrowth of Malassezia fungi on the scalp. Baroni states, "Malassezia ovalis is the most

frequent species associated with dandruff and its overgrowth has been correlated with scalp

inflammation"(Baroni 332). Therefore, one of the strategies to treat dandruff is to control the

growth of Malassezia fungi. Antifungal agents such as ketoconazole, ciclopirox, and zinc

pyrithione control Malassezia overgrowth and reduce dandruff symptoms. Additionally, natural

remedies such as tea tree oil and aloe vera have been shown to have antifungal properties and

may help in the management of dandruff (Baroni 335).

Dander and dandruff are often used interchangeably, but they are different. Sayers

explains, "Dander refers to the dead skin cells and hair that are shed by animals, while dandruff

is a specific condition of the scalp in humans"(Sayers 1). While dander is an average shedding

process, dandruff is a skin condition that requires treatment. In addition to antifungal agents,

there are other treatments available for dandruff. Medicated shampoos containing salicylic acid,

coal tar, or selenium sulfide can help to exfoliate the scalp and reduce flaking. Topical

corticosteroids may also be prescribed to reduce inflammation and itching. However, it is

essential to note that overuse of these treatments may lead to scalp irritation and dryness.

Therefore, it is essential to follow the healthcare provider's instructions and use these treatments

as directed to avoid any adverse effects (Baroni 336; Sayers 2).

Conclusion

In conclusion, keeping excellent health and a pleasing appearance requires proper skin

care. The body's largest organ, the skin, is sensitive to various environmental factors that may

harm health. Some of the most prevalent skin issues people experience are eczema, dandruff,

skin cancer, and staph infections. Developing a skincare routine tailored to each individual's

needs is crucial. A comprehensive skincare routine involves washing, moisturizing, and sun

protection to keep the skin clean, hydrated, and protected. Frequent skin care and attention can

help prevent and treat various skin issues, resulting in healthy, glowing skin that looks beautiful

and feels great. It is essential to be aware of the potential environmental exposure risks and take

the appropriate steps to avoid causing skin damage. Ultimately, prioritizing skincare is an

investment in one's health and well-being, resulting in a better, happier, and more confident

existence.
 Work Cited

Baroni, Adone, et al. "New Strategies in Dandruff Treatment: Growth Control of

Malassezia Ovalis." Dermatology (Basel), vol. 201, no. 4, 2000, pp. 332–36,

https://doi.org/10.1159/000051548.

Barkema, H. W., et al. "Invited Review: The Role of Cow, Pathogen, and Treatment

Regimen in the Therapeutic Success of Bovine Staphylococcus Aureus Mastitis." Journal

of Dairy Science, vol. 89, no. 6, 2006, pp. 1877–95, https://doi.org/10.3168/jds.S0022-

0302(06)72256-1.

Diepgen, Thomas, et al. "Management of Chronic Hand Eczema." Contact Dermatitis,

vol. 57, no. 4, 14 Sept. 2007, pp. 203–210., https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1600-

0536.2007.01179.x.

Didona, Dario, et al. "Non Melanoma Skin Cancer Pathogenesis Overview."

Biomedicines, vol. 6, no. 1, 2018, p. 6., https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines6010006.

Gordon, Rachel J., and Franklin D. Lowy. "Pathogenesis of Methicillin‐

ResistantStaphylococcus AureusInfection." Clinical Infectious Diseases, vol. 46, no. S5,

2008, https://doi.org/10.1086/533591.

Hwang, Bo Kyoung, et al. "Effect of the Skincare Product on Facial Skin Microbial

Structure and Biophysical Parameters: A Pilot Study." MicrobiologyOpen (Weinheim),

vol. 10, no. 5, 2021, p. e1236–n/a, https://doi.org/10.1002/mbo3.1236.

Rodan, Katie, et al. "Efficacy of a Twice-Daily, 3-Step, over-the-Counter Skincare

Regimen for the Treatment of Acne Vulgaris." Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational

Dermatology, vol. 10, 2017, pp. 3–9, https://doi.org/10.2147/CCID.S125438.

Sayers, William. "Dander And Dandruff: Etymologies." ANQ (Lexington, Ky.), vol.

ahead-of-print, no. ahead-of-print, 2022, pp. 1–2,

https://doi.org/10.1080/0895769X.2022.2156845.

Trager, Megan H., et al. "Biomarkers in Melanoma and Non‐melanoma Skin Cancer

Prevention and Risk Stratification." Experimental Dermatology, vol. 31, no. 1, Jan. 2022,

pp. 4–12. EBSCOhost, https://doi.org/10.1111/exd.14114.