Creams, ointments, and gels are all effective in treating skin conditions, but each one differs in their specific properties. Individually, they can treat a specific type of condition particularly effectively. In this article, we will explain some of the properties each one has and why it can be beneficial in certain situations.

Collagen is a protein that is very important for your body. It helps keep your skin, hair, nails, muscles, and joints strong and flexible. As you get older, your body makes less collagen, which can lead to wrinkles, thinner hair, and joint pain. Many people use collagen supplements and beauty products, hoping to look younger and feel better. This article explains what collagen is, how it works, the different types, and whether supplements really help. It also shares natural ways to boost your body’s collagen and clears up common myths.

Chicken skin, also known as keratosis pilaris, is a very common skin condition, where the skin gets bumpy and red, resembling chicken skin or goosebumps. It typically occurs on the upper outer arms and thighs, where hair follicles get blocked with pockets of keratin, a thick tough substance that helps to protect the skin. Bumps are usually red, brown or flesh-coloured, and the skin will feel rough, dry and sometimes itchy. This condition affects up to half of the population, running in families and appearing most prominently in adolescence, with improvement usually in adulthood. It is completely harmless, but people become concerned with its appearance.

What is postherpetic neuralgia? Postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) is long-lasting pain that happens after a shingles rash goes away. Shingles is caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox. After you recover from chickenpox, the virus stays in your body but is not active. Years later, the virus can wake up and cause shingles. When you have shingles, you get a painful rash. This rash typically resolves within a few weeks. But sometimes, the pain doesn't go away after the rash heals. This ongoing pain is called postherpetic neuralgia. PHN happens when the shingles virus damages your nerves. The damaged nerves send pain signals to your brain even when there is no rash anymore. This can cause burning, stabbing, or throbbing pain that lasts for months or even years. Who gets postherpetic neuralgia? Some people are more likely to get PHN after having shingles: people over 50 years old people who had severe shingles with a bad rash people who didn't get treatment for shingles right away people with health problems that weaken the immune system women (slightly more than men)

Discover how to determine your skin type and develop the ideal skincare routine for healthy, radiant skin. Get tips for oily, dry, combination, normal, and sensitive skin. Why Knowing Your Skin Type Matters Knowing your skin type is the first step to having healthy skin. Many people use products that aren't right for them, which can cause breakouts, irritation, or dryness. When you understand your skin type, you can choose the right products that keep your skin balanced and healthy. There are five main skin types: normal, oily, dry, combination, and sensitive. Each type needs different care. Using the wrong products can make skin problems worse. In this article, we'll help you figure out your skin type and share tips to keep your skin looking great. The Five Skin Types Here's how to identify which skin type you have: 1. Normal Skin Normal skin has a good balance of oil and moisture with few problems. The pores aren't too big, and the skin feels smooth. People with normal skin typically don't experience excessive oiliness or dryness, allowing them to follow a simple skincare routine. 2. Oily Skin Oily skin produces more oil than needed. This can cause your face to appear shiny, with larger pores, and you may experience more blackheads or pimples. Oily skin requires products that control oil without over-drying the skin. 3. Dry Skin Dry skin lacks sufficient moisture. It can feel tight or flaky, especially after washing. You might notice rough patches or redness. People with dry skin need products rich in moisture, such as creams and oils. 4. Combination Skin Combination skin has both oily and dry areas. Typically, the T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin) is oily, while the cheeks tend to be drier. You need to balance these areas with products that add moisture to dry spots without clogging pores in oily areas. 5. Sensitive Skin Sensitive skin gets irritated easily. It may turn red quickly due to skincare products, harsh weather, or certain foods. If you have sensitive skin, look for gentle products that are free from added scents. Simple Test: To help figure out your skin type, wash your face with a mild soap, wait an hour without putting anything on your skin, and see how it feels. Common Skin Myths Here are some wrong ideas about skin that many people believe: Myth: "I have dry skin because I get breakouts." Many people think only oily skin gets pimples, but dry skin can break out too. When skin is too dry, it may produce extra oil to compensate, which can clog pores. Use a gentle cleanser and don't skip moisturiser. Myth: "Oily skin doesn't need moisturiser." Skipping moisturiser can actually make oily skin worse. When your skin feels dry, it makes even more oil. Choose light, oil-free moisturisers that won't clog your pores. Myth: "Combination skin needs different products for each area." While it may seem that you should use different products for dry and oily areas, most people with combination skin can use the same products everywhere. Look for products made for combination skin that control oil in the T-zone while adding moisture to dry areas.

Sunscreen is crucial for maintaining healthy skin. It protects your skin from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. These rays can cause sunburn, accelerate skin ageing, and even lead to skin cancer. Studies show that using sunscreen regularly can lower your risk of getting skin cancer by up to 50%. Sunscreen acts like a shield, blocking both UVA and UVB rays, which can damage your skin in different ways. You should use sunscreen every day, no matter the weather. Even on cloudy days, up to 80% of UV rays can still reach your skin. For optimal protection, select a sunscreen labelled as “broad-spectrum” and with an SPF of 30 or higher. This helps keep your skin healthy and looking young. Why Sunscreen Matters UV rays from the sun come in two main types: UVA and UVB. UVA rays cause your skin to age and wrinkle. UVB rays cause sunburn and can increase the risk of skin cancer. Both can damage your skin’s DNA, which increases your risk of skin cancer. Using sunscreen regularly can reduce your risk of certain skin cancers by up to 40%. Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers. About 1 in 5 Americans will get it in their lifetime. Sunscreen helps prevent melanoma, the most severe and deadly type of skin cancer. Sun exposure also makes your skin age faster. Up to 90% of visible changes, like wrinkles and dark spots, are caused by the sun. Sunscreen helps keep your skin looking younger by protecting it from these effects.

Hair plays a significant role in how many women see themselves, so losing it can be upsetting and impact self-esteem. While often thought of as a men's issue, hair loss in women is more common than many realise. It can happen for a variety of reasons: including age, genetics, health conditions, or hair care practices and can begin gradually or suddenly. This guide covers the leading causes when to see a doctor, how doctors diagnose hair loss, and treatment and prevention options to help you manage hair loss with confidence and care. Why Hair Loss Happens in Women Ageing and Genetics As women get older, they may notice thinning hair, especially at the top or crown of the head. This is often due to female pattern hair loss (also called androgenetic alopecia), a genetic condition that affects millions of women. Unlike male baldness, women usually don't lose all their hair but may see gradual thinning over time. Hair loss typically starts in the 50s or 60s, but it can begin earlier. By age 70, about 40% of women will experience noticeable thinning. If your mother or grandmother had thinning hair, you may also be more likely to experience it. Hairstyling Practices Certain hairstyles and hair treatments can damage hair follicles and lead to hair loss over time. This includes: Tight hairstyles like braids, ponytails, buns, or weaves, which can cause traction alopecia: hair loss caused by pulling. Heat styling tools (blow dryers, flat irons, curling irons) can weaken the hair shaft and cause breakage. Chemical treatments, such as perms, relaxers, and frequent dyeing, can damage hair and scalp health. Letting your hair "rest" by avoiding tight or damaging styles and using gentle, protective products can help prevent long-term damage. Medical Conditions Several health problems can lead to hair loss in women. These include: Autoimmune diseases, like lupus or alopecia areata, cause the immune system to attack hair follicles. Thyroid disorders (underactive or overactive thyroid) can cause hair to become thin, dry, or fall out. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a hormone imbalance that can lead to hair thinning on the scalp and excess hair growth elsewhere. Iron deficiency, often caused by heavy periods or low dietary iron, can limit hair growth, even without full-blown anaemia. If you're experiencing other symptoms like fatigue, weight changes, irregular periods, or sudden hair loss, it's essential to talk to a doctor.

Hair growth treatments are hugely popular in the UK, but it’s not always clear which ones genuinely work. With so many choices - medicated products, natural remedies, supplements, and over-the-counter options: it can be challenging to separate fact from marketing hype. Whether you want to slow down hair thinning or encourage new growth, it’s essential to know which treatments are backed by scientific evidence, which may help in certain situations, and which are unlikely to make a difference. This guide reviews the most common options available in the UK and highlights when it’s best to seek medical advice.

Natural oils have been used for centuries to nourish and protect hair. Today, they remain a key part of many hair care routines, especially as people look for natural alternatives to chemical-based products. Coconut and argan oils are the most popular, but other oils like jojoba, castor, olive, and rosemary are gaining attention. But how effective are these oils? Can combinations, like rosemary mixed with castor or almond oil, boost benefits? Let’s explore the evidence-based science behind these oils, their benefits, limitations, and practical uses.

What Is Hyperpigmentation? Hyperpigmentation is a common skin condition where patches of skin become darker than the surrounding areas due to an overproduction of melanin, the pigment responsible for the colour of your skin, hair, and eyes. It can affect individuals of all skin tones and types and is usually harmless, though it often leads to self-consciousness or cosmetic concerns. Where Does Hyperpigmentation Show Up? These darker patches can appear anywhere on the body, but they are most commonly found on areas frequently exposed to the sun, such as the face, hands, neck, and back. On the face, they often appear on the forehead, cheeks, and upper lip, sometimes forming a pattern referred to as the “mask of pregnancy.” Understanding hyperpigmentation is an important first step toward managing it. With a range of treatments available: from home remedies to medical therapies: many people are able to reduce the appearance of dark spots and achieve a more even skin tone. Causes of Hyperpigmentation A variety of internal and external factors can trigger hyperpigmentation. Some of the most common causes include: Sun Exposure: UV rays stimulate melanin production, which can lead to sun spots or uneven skin tone over time: especially without proper sun protection. Hormonal Changes: Conditions like pregnancy, use of birth control pills, or hormonal imbalances can lead to melasma, a type of hyperpigmentation that appears as symmetrical patches on the face. Skin Injuries or Inflammation: Cuts, burns, acne, eczema, or other skin trauma can result in post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), where dark spots form after the skin heals. Medications and Medical Conditions: Certain medications, such as chemotherapy drugs or antimalarials, may cause pigmentation changes. In rarer cases, underlying health conditions like Addison’s disease can also lead to skin darkening due to hormone imbalances. Types of hyperpigmentation include: Melasma: often hormone-related, usually affects the face. Sun Spots (Solar Lentigines): caused by UV exposure over time. Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH): occurs after injury or inflammation of the skin.

25 Health & Beauty Q&As Here is a breakdown of questions asked by yourselves about health and beauty, answered by our dermatology specialist. 1. What is the best skincare routine for dry skin? Various factors, such as environment, genetics, or certain skin conditions, can cause dry skin. A good routine for dry skin focuses on hydration and skin protection. We suggest a simple yet complete approach, including a cleanser, moisturiser and sunscreen for the daytime and a night routine that includes a cleanser, moisturiser and face oil. Some additional tips include using a Humidifier in your room to maintain moisture in the air and using a large bottle of water to ensure optimal hydration throughout the day. Would you like recommendations for specific products? Morning: CeraVe cleanser, Eucerin Dry Touch Sun Screen Evening: Cleanser, Aveeno moisturiser 2. How do you achieve the glass skin look? To achieve the “glass skin” look, we recommend following a healthy lifestyle and consistently keeping up a skincare routine that gives you an intensely hydrated complexion. This routine typically involves double cleansing, exfoliation, toning, essence, moisturiser and sunscreen. Some optional treatments would include applying sheet masks up to 3 times a week for an extra boost of hydration. Recommendations of products include ORS Hydration Tablets. 3. Is sunscreen essential, and why? Yes, sunscreen is crucial for maintaining healthy skin. It helps protect against harmful UV rays that can cause sunburn, premature ageing, and even skin cancer. It's essential to apply sunscreen every day, even on cloudy days. Some great sunscreen products include: Eucerin Sun Spray Transparent Dry Touch, Piz Buin Mountain Sun Cream, Eucerin Sun Sensitive Protect Extra Light Sun Cream & CeraVe Hydrating Sunscreen. 4. How can you treat acne and anxiety-induced flare-ups with skincare? To treat acne and anxiety-induced flare-ups with skincare, I recommend using gentle cleansers and moisturisers that are non-comedogenic and fragrance-free. Also, incorporate calming ingredients like aloe vera or green tea into your skincare routine for relief benefits. Some products you can try include CeraVe cleanser, Aveeno moisturiser 5. Can consuming a lot of caffeine cause lousy skin? Caffeine can be both beneficial and harmful for the skin. Some positive effects include anti-oxidant properties and improved circulation. Some adverse effects include dehydration and increasing the stress hormone in the body. 6. How do you apply retinol? Retinol is applied as the second step in your night skincare routine. After gently cleansing the skin, apply a small amount of retinol evenly on the skin, then seal with a hydrating moisturiser. It is essential to start slowly with retinol. We recommend starting with 0.25% for new users. Acnecide is a stronger pharmacy retinol and is proven clinically effective, but is very strong and is not suitable for sensitive skin. 7. Can I use retinol in my 20s? While It may be too early to start - It depends on your skin type and is specific to your concerns and goals. Please consult a dermatologist to tailor your retinol use. 8. What will help tighten your skin? It can be approached from both products and professional treatments. Some of the recommended products include peptides, hyaluronic acid and vitamin C ingredients. Some of the professional methods we recommend include laser therapy, radiofrequency, and ultrasound therapy. Some at-home remedies, including masks and facial massages, can contribute to better circulation and more collagen production. 9. Can vitamin C irritate my skin? Should I use it in the morning or night? It depends on your skin type and the concentration of vitamin C used. You should not use Vitamin C combined with other actives, such as retinoids, exfoliating acids, or benzoyl peroxide, as that can lead to skin sensitivity and irritation. Vitamin C and a good sunscreen Acnecide, Eucerin Sun Spray Transparent Dry Touch & Berocca Orange Energy Vitamin 10. Are alcohols bad to use on the skin? It depends on the type of alcohol ingredient in the skincare product. Please consult your dermatologist for personalised advice and always patch-test the product before use. 11. What are the best vitamins for glowing skin? To achieve radiant skin, focusing on several vitamins can play a critical role in your skin’s health and radiance. Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Vitamin A, Vitamin D, and Vitamin K Vitamin C Benefits - Boosts immunity, helps collagen production, and enhances iron absorption. Sources - Citrus fruits, strawberries, bell peppers, broccoli. Food vs supplements - Better absorbed from food, but supplements help if dietary intake is insufficient. Vitamin E Benefits - Antioxidant, supports skin and immune health. Sources - Nuts, seeds, spinach, vegetable oils. Food vs supplements - Prefer food for better absorption; high-dose supplements can interfere with clotting. Vitamin A Benefits - Supports vision, immunity, and skin health. Sources - Liver, dairy (retinol); carrots, sweet potatoes (beta-carotene). Food vs supplements - Prefer beta-carotene foods to avoid toxicity; supplements only if deficient. Vitamin D Benefits - Supports bone health and immune function. Sources - Sunlight, fatty fish, fortified foods, egg yolks. Food vs supplements - Hard to get from food; supplements often needed, especially in low sunlight areas. Vitamin K Benefits - Essential for blood clotting and bone health. Sources - Leafy greens, broccoli, fermented foods. Food vs Supplements - Easily obtained from food; supplements rarely needed unless deficient. 12. How to get rid of hormonal acne? There are multiple ways you could approach getting rid of hormonal acne. We recommend you first focus on lifestyle changes, including managing your diet, sleep and stress levels.  Second, implement a skincare routine and be consistent with it. Third, you could consult a dermatologist if the case persists. Finally, you could try topical treatments, including retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, etc. 13. How can you prevent skin from ageing? To prevent skin ageing, you could implement multiple strategies in your lifestyle choices and skincare routine to maintain skin health and avoid skin issues that may arise with age. Using SPF consistently. Follow a healthy diet and limit sugar intake. Implement healthy habits avoid alcohol avoid smoking and get 8+ hours of sleep per night. Manage stress levels. Regular dermatologist visits for specific advice tailored to your concerns. 14. What are the best products for dark circles under the eyes? There are many products you can use for dark under-eye circles. Ingredients such as hyaluronic acid and caffeine in under-eye creams can offer instant benefits and enhance the darkness immediately upon use. If darkness persists with consistent use of products, we recommend checking your lifestyle routine and consulting a dermatologist. 15. Is there a DIY treatment for blemishes? To create any DIY treatment that targets blemishes on the skin, you would have to make a concoction that reduces inflammation, kills bacteria and promotes healing. Please note that it is essential to patch-test them on a small skin area before the entire application. 16. Is my skin dry or just dehydrated? The difference between dry and dehydrated skin can be determined by learning the characteristics of both types and considering a few tests, such as the pinch test. If unsure, visit a dermatologist to help diagnose your skin and recommend the best treatment tailored to your concern. 17. Should my skincare lineup change from AM to PM? It depends on what you are trying to target and your goal. Here are key questions you can ask yourself to determine if your skincare lineup should change from AM to PM: What are my skincare goals? Are you focusing on hydration, anti-ageing, acne, or protection from environmental damage? How does my skin behave throughout the day? Does it get oily, dry, or sensitive during different parts of the day? Do I need sun protection at night? Sunscreens are vital during the day but unnecessary in the evening. Am I using products that target different concerns for day vs night? Antioxidants (like Vitamin C) protect during the day, while retinoids or exfoliants work better at night for repair. How sensitive is my skin to certain ingredients? Some active ingredients (like retinoids or AHAs) can make your skin more sun-sensitive, so they're better used at night. What kind of environment am I in during the day? Do you need more protection from pollutants and UV in the morning compared to the evening when your skin can recover? How much time can I dedicate to skincare in the morning vs the evening? Does your schedule allow for a more intensive routine at night, or do you need something simpler for the AM? Answering these questions will help tailor your routine to your specific daily and night needs. 18. What do you recommend for sensitive skin? A few recommendations for sensitive skin include the following: Using only gentle products, avoiding alcohol-based products and always doing a patch test on a small area of the skin of any new products before application to ensure they don’t irritate you. 19. Do you recommend taking skin supplements? It depends on your specific deficiencies and overall health needs. Both supplements and natural intake of vitamins and minerals are effective ways to provide your skin with the necessary needs. Some top-rated skin supplements: Vitabiotics Immunace Original 20. How to fix an uneven skin tone? To successfully address uneven skin tone, you need to approach the following: a Using SPF consistently b. Gently exfoliate your skin 3-4 times per week  \*include benefits and recommended products c. Follow a healthy lifestyle \*include info on diet, hydration, activity, etc. d. Consider hydroquinone \*include info and recommended products e. Consult a dermatologist for specific advice and a tailored approach to uneven skin tone. 21. How do I find out my skin type? Understanding your skin type will help you take care of it and choose the right products and routines that will allow you to maintain it and get the best results. A way to find out what your skin type is is through our method here. 22. Should I wear sunscreen indoors? Whether you need sunscreen indoors depends on the environment you’re spending your day in. If you are subjected to light through windows or screens for long periods, then yes, wearing sunscreen with at least SPF 25 indoors will be beneficial and prevent the harm and effects of UV radiation on your skin and overall health. 23. How should I layer my skincare products? For your skincare routine to be effective and achieve the maximum benefits and results, we advise you to layer it as follows, allowing absorption time before applying the next. Step 1 - Cleanser. Step 2 - Toner. Step 3 - Serum. Step 4 - Moisturiser. Step 5 - Sunscreen. Please be aware that combining or layering active ingredients (such as retinoids and vitamin C or AHA/BHA acids or Ninacinamide) can irritate when used together. 24. How to control oil production on the face? Some effective methods you could implement include:- Opting for gentle cleansers that don’t interfere with - Regular exfoliation- Opting for oil-free or water/gel-based products.- Incorporate mattifying products if needed such as pore erasing primers include links and blotting paper or powders can help absorb oil. - Focus on Hydration - O.R.S. hydration tablets - Consuming a healthy diet of natural foods can help overall skin condition and health. 25. How effective are facial laser treatments? It varies from one individual to another, but in general, facial laser treatments are considered highly effective for multiple concerns, including acne, fine lines, hyperpigmentation. Here at healthwords.ai we if anything persists, consult your dermatologist for a suitable treatment that is subjective to their fears for optimal results.

Sunburn is when excessive exposure to the sun damages the skin causing it to become damaged. The majority of cases can be self-treated. Sunburn is an example of a first-degree (superficial) burn - the skin is red, painful and very sensitive to touch, and the damaged skin may be slightly moist from leakage of the fluid in the deeper layers of the skin. Sunburn, caused by the UVB rays in sunlight, is common and sore at the time. But it also increases your risk of developing skin cancer later in life, so it's important to avoid this by using sun safe practices. These include adequate - sun cream SPF 30 and above, with both UVA and UVB protection, cover up with hats and clothes and avoid the sun altogether on summer days between 11 am and 3 pm.