SKIN CHANGES WITH AGE
Birth to 20 Years
Birth
Congenital skin lesions, vascular birthmarks and moles
may all be present in newborn babies. Some birthmarks
are minor and without medical implications, others are
more severe and can cause significant functional and psychological
problems.
Fortunately, evolving laser techniques and surgery can
provide dramatic, positive results. Anaesthetic creams
help to make such skin care treatments substantially less
painful than in the past.
Childhood
Birth skin problems and early onset of acne can be treated
with excellent results. Avoiding exposure to prolonged
sun without proper protection in childhood significantly
reduces the tendency to develop skin cancer later in life.
Accidental cuts and wounds, properly dressed, will facilitate
scar-free healing. Any residual scaring can be treated
with topical medications and new laser techniques.
Adolescence
80% of the population experience acne at some stage
of their lives. Adolescent acne, when severe, can cause
major physical and emotional scarring. Early intervention
is essential to prevent acne scarring and helps reduce
the intensity and amount of treatment needed.
Adolescents are also plagued with the sudden appearance
of hair in unwanted places or excess quantities.
During these years, teens are very conscious of their
appearance. They are also experimenting with tobacco,
alcohol and drugs. Explaining the dangers of these substances
on the skin generally has more influence than simple reprimand.
This is also the time to encourage teenagers to be vigilant
in protecting their skin from the sun. Just one serious
sunburn can increase your risk by as much as 50%.
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