Did you know the number of skin cancer patients globally is estimated to reach around 30.2 million in 2040 compared to 19.2 million in 2020? There are various types of skin cancers, and each varies in its symptoms and risk factors.  However, the most prominent signs of skin cancer may include: An unhealed sore A changing form of a mole Constant itching on a particular skin area An unusual spot What does Skin Cancer Look Like? Let’s discuss how skin cancer can be diagnosed by its appearance.  Melanomas Melanoma is the most severe type of skin cancer, estimated to affect around 197,700 people in the US in 2022. It can spread rapidly to nearby cells, which increases its risk factors.  Melanoma may be usually visible in the form of asymmetrical lesions with different shapes, colors, or sizes. They may have uneven, notched, crusting, or bleeding edges, usually with a diameter of 6mm or more. Squamous Cell Cancers Approximately 1.8 million people are diagnosed with Squamous Cell Cancers (SCC) every year. Squamous Cell carcinoma is mostly found on sun-exposed skin surfaces in the form of flaky scars, open sores, warts, or red patches.  The color of the SCC exposed area may be red, pink, or brown and may also feel like shiny, waxy scars with no definite borders. The signs of SCC may cause extreme itching, pain, or even bleeding on the scars or open sores. Moreover, these areas become difficult to heal and grow exponentially.  Actinic Keratosis Skin Cancer Foundation reveals that almost 58 million Americans got affected by the signs of Actinic Keratosis. They are precancerous, scaly dry patches of skin caused by sun damage which can ultimately turn into cancer if left untreated.  Actinic Keratosis may be pink, red, white, or dark tan, depending on the patient’s skin tone. Due to having a rough texture, they are easier to feel and diagnose. The signs of actinic keratosis may appear on the sun-exposed skin surfaces such as the head, face, arms, or neck.  Basal Cell Cancers Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) is the most frequently occurring form of cancer, with an estimated 3.6 million cases in the US each year. BCC is most commonly caused by DNA damage that happens due to the sun’s ultraviolet radiations or tanning beds. Resultantly, alterations in basal cells of the epidermis occur, causing uncontrolled cell growth. BCC appears as red shiny skin patches, scars, or open sores which may itch or bleed, depending on the severity of the disease. However, the signs may vary from person to person. Self Examination for Skin Cancer Signs Checking your skin regularly may help you identify any unusual signs that may lead to cancerous outgrowths. For this purpose, using the ABCDE rule is the best way: Asymmetry: A mole or outgrowth doesn’t show definite symmetry with equal halves. Border: An undefined border around the mole or suspected lesion. Color: A solid color of the spot different from the surrounding skin. Diameter: The size of the suspected mole or outgrowth larger than pea-size. Evolving: Constantly forming new moles or changing the appearance of already present forms. Bottom Line The signs and symptoms of skin cancer vary from person to person. It’s recommended to consult your doctor urgently if you feel any unusual signs for an early diagnosis and quick recovery. 

Do you know that about one million people in the US are diagnosed with skin cancer every year? Moreover, approximately 57,180 men and 62,600 women are estimated to develop skin cancer in the US in 2022.  The increased incidence rate of skin cancer has emerged as a rising threat worldwide, especially in the fair-skinned population. UV sun rays, ozone layer depletion, ionizing radiations, and pollutants are the most common causative agents of skin cancer. Let’s have a deeper look at it!  Why Does Skin Cancer Develop? Abnormal growth of skin cells resulting from DNA mutation (changes in normal DNA sequence) in skin cells causes skin cancer. In this disease, the skin can’t get rid of dead or old cells; rather, they build up with new cells causing malignant growth of abnormal cells.  What Causes Skin Cancer? Sun’s UV Radiations  The major cause of skin cancer is unprotected exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet radiation. A study reveals that about 95% of melanomas (the most lethal type of skin cancer) develop due to exposure to harmful UV rays of the sun.  Remember that UV rays are equally dangerous in summer and winter. Moreover, certain medicines may also lead to enhanced skin sensitivity toward sunlight. So, ensure using good quality sunscreen (with SPF 30 or above) on your face and other exposed body parts before going outside. Genetics Genetic mutation (abnormal DNA changes) plays a huge role in causing skin cancer. Normally, new healthy skin cells keep producing while tumor suppressor genes destroy older cells. However, any genetic defect may malfunction tumor suppressor genes, thus causing uncontrolled cell production and growth without dying older cells.   Weakened Immune System Usually, people with a weak immune system are more prone to developing skin cancer. Certain diseases such as HIV, autoimmune disorders, and chronic kidney and liver disease may suppress immunity. Moreover, some immunosuppressant drugs used for organ transplantation may also develop certain cancer signs, especially skin cancer.   Ozone Layer Depletion The ozone layer around the earth protects the skin from harmful UV rays of the sun, specifically UVA, UVB, and UVC. However, this layer is constantly depleting, thus leading to increased skin exposure to harmful UV rays, hence chances of increased risk of skin cancer.  Environmental Pollutants The level of environmental pollutants has dramatically increased worldwide, especially in under-developed countries. When these pollutants contact the skin, they might cause skin infections or even severe skin diseases such as skin cancer. Research indicates that UV radiations, volatile organic compounds, and heavy metals such as arsenic or lead are the most common pollutants causing skin cancer. Bottom Line You can prevent skin cancer by taking precautions such as applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen, avoiding tanning beds, and protecting your skin from UV rays. Moreover, consult your doctor if you detect any unexpected changes to your skin. Keep in mind that skin cancer can be curable if diagnosed early.

Glutathione is known for its antioxidant properties that offer various health benefits. However, you may wonder if it’s safe to take l-glutathione during pregnancy. This is often the concern of many pregnant women. Surprisingly, glutathione intake can protect the mother and fetus from many birth complications such as oxidative stress in pregnancy, labor, and conception.  Let’s break it down further.  Environmental Factors that Cause Birth Defects There are various environmental factors that cause oxidative stress and lower glutathione levels, which lead to congenital disabilities, miscarriages, and abortion in pregnancy. Some of the teratogens or congenital disabilities during pregnancy are as follows: Air pollution  Pesticides and Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) Radiation Heavy metals like mercury, cadmium, and arsenic. Vinyl chloride Acrylonitrile Cigarette smoke Excess Oxygen (hyperoxia) Antipsychotic Anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs) Thalidomide Alcohol or ethanol consumption Maternal Health Factors that Cause Birth Defects Here are some maternal health factors that increase the production of free radicals and result in birth defects.  Infection and Inflammation Diabetes Pre-eclampsia L-Glutathione During Pregnancy Because of modern diet and lifestyle, today’s mothers (to be) might lack many factors crucial for her and the fetus’s health, including antioxidants. When we talk about antioxidants like folic acid, we usually overlook the benefits of vitamin E and glutathione during pregnancy.   Interestingly, glutathione and antioxidants are essential for the growth and development of the fetus and for maintaining a healthy pregnancy. In addition, it also plays an important role before pregnancy, conception, and infertility.  Glutathione is a powerful antioxidant present naturally in the human body and helps restore other antioxidants like vitamin C and vitamin E. It protects the mother and her embryo from free radical damage and oxidative stress.  Often women experience complications during pregnancy due to low levels of glutathione in mother and fetus, oxidative stress, and free radical damage. Glutathione plays a vital role in the development of the fetus and placenta. It can control proliferation, cell differentiation, and cell death.  In addition to this, glutathione removes pollutants from the placenta before they get to the developing fetus. Naturally, the human placenta contains a significant amount of GST (glutathione S-transferase) that eliminates or activates the drugs during the organ development of the fetus. However, some of these drugs cause free radical damage and reduce GSH stores in the growing child.  Glutathione Benefits For Pregnancy  Glutathione and other antioxidants reduce oxidative stress in pregnancy with inflammation or conditions like preeclampsia and diabetes and put fetuses at risk of developing cystic fibrosis. Consumption of glutathione supplements with precursors and antioxidants can lower the risk of birth defects and protects mother and child from fatal consequences and damage of pregnancy complications.  Glutathione intake prevents and reduces oxidative stress during the labor and birth process. It is recommended to take prenatal vitamins that include antioxidants for pregnant women. Plus, plenty of fresh vegetables and fruits are one of the best sources of antioxidant protection.  Dosage  Here’s a quick sneak peek into how pregnant women should take doses of l-glutathione.  Do not overdose. Take an appropriate amount of glutathione, it’s always better to ask your doctor.  Ensure cofactor availability  Glutathione supplement form and bioavailability It’s recommended to take supplements that supply at least 200-600 IU of tocopherols (depending on the form) and contain trace elements and minerals such as B-vitamin cofactors and magnesium. Then adding 500 QD-BID of true liposomal glutathione would be safe, balanced, and work great. 

Vitamin E is an essential nutrient the human body needs for a healthy brain, blood, eyesight, and immune function. The deficiency of vitamin E in the body can lead to several health problems, such as muscle weakness and vision problems.  Today, we will look into various skin and health benefits of vitamin E. Keep reading!  5 Amazing Health Benefits of Vitamin E  1. May Reduce Dysmenorrhea Pain  People with dysmenorrhea often experience severe and frequent menstrual pain, such as cramps or pelvic pain. Research suggests the intake of vitamin E supplements can help reduce this pain in women having this condition.   A study published in 2018 shows that women having dysmenorrhea consuming vitamin E daily experienced less menstrual pain than those given a placebo. Recent research proved that taking vitamin E and vitamin C regularly for 8 weeks helped relieve pelvic pain and dysmenorrhea in females with endometriosis. 2. Lower Risk of Heart Diseases  People with high blood pressure and increased blood lipids, including LDL (bad) cholesterol and triglycerides, may have increased chances of getting heart disease. A study shows the risk of these heart diseases can be lessened by consuming vitamin E supplements. Results of a study show that compared to those given a placebo, vitamin E supplements notably reduced systolic but not diastolic blood pressure. Another study found that taking vitamin E with omega-3 can reduce levels of LDL and triglyceride in individuals having metabolic syndrome, a condition that increases the risk of heart diseases. 3. Immunity Booster  We all need to boost our immunity, especially after covid breakdown, a strong immune system becomes paramount. According to a study, consuming vitamin E daily can boost immunity and protect against infectious diseases.  4. Skin Health Benefits Having a skin disorder such as eczema is like a nightmare, but consuming vitamin E can help treat certain skin conditions. However, little research has been done regarding vitamin E benefits on eczema patients.  5. May Support Lung Function  If your lungs are not functioning properly, try adding vitamin E to your diet. A study showed that intake of vitamin E supplements could improve lung function as well as asthma symptoms in adults and children.  Vitamin E Food Sources Here are some dietary sources of vitamin E that include plant-based oils, nuts, fruits, and vegetables. Avocado Wheat germ oil Almonds Sunflower and soybean oil Beet greens, collard greens, spinach Pumpkin Peanuts, peanut butter Red bell pepper Mango Take Away  All the health benefits mentioned above prove that vitamin E is an essential nutrient for your body. You can consume it through foods or supplements containing vitamin E. Diamond Glow is one such multivitamin powdered supplement that contains vitamin E along with other vitamins, fruit extracts, and natural ingredients to boost your skin health and overall health.

Vitamin E is highly rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, making it exceptionally good for boosting your skin’s health and freshness. It protects the skin from oxidative damage and heals and nourishes your skin, thus boosting its robustness and youthfulness. You can consume vitamin E through diet, supplements, or apply it topically through various skincare products.  In this article, we’ve listed down some key roles of vitamin E for healthier skin. Let’s dive deeper!  7 Amazing Benefits of Vitamin E for Skin Delays Aging Signs The most important causes of photo-aging are excessive sun exposure and a high level of melanin in the skin. Vitamin E is an efficient antioxidant that helps combat sun-induced oxidative stress leading to fine structured skin. It also improves proper blood flow in the skin, hence helping avoid premature aging signs like wrinkles and fine lines.  Maintains Skin Hydration Vitamin E is the primary constituent of all good-quality moisturizers. It is because of its role in helping the skin lock skin’s natural moisture. Furthermore, vitamin E oil also helps the flaky and dry skin restore its moisture and prevent further damage.  Treats Acne Scars   Vitamin E helps treat acne scars by reducing the marks and keeping your skin free of dark spots. It is due to the involvement of vitamin E in keeping your skin hydrated which minimizes the chances of developing scars.  Reduces Hyperpigmentation  Vitamin E is effective in preventing and treating the symptoms of skin hyperpigmentation and melasma. Increasing vitamin E intake or using it topically can significantly reduce pigmented skin. However, pairing up vitamin E and C shows much better results for combating pigmented skin problems.  Improves Lip Texture If you have chapped and dry lips, vitamin E can be the most effective remedy for you. It has the tendency to promote new cell growth and favors regeneration in the damaged areas, which ultimately leads to higher cell turnover. It also helps escalate the healing of the damaged skin by bringing up new cells to the surface at a faster rate.  Soothes Skin and Heals Itching  Dry skin is highly vulnerable to frequent skin infections and diseases such as itching, redness, and different types of skin lesions. Since Vitamin E helps moisturize the skin, it is very beneficial in relieving these signs. Research shows that taking vitamin E-rich supplements can help alleviate the symptoms of eczema, atopic dermatitis, and psoriasis.  Helps Heal Sunburns Based on its role in relieving itching and irritation, vitamin E is believed to be capable of overcoming sunburns. However, there is limited evidence that depicts its effectiveness in preventing and reducing sunburns. Sunscreens are considered the best defense against harmful UV rays. Moreover, skincare products with vitamin E as the main natural ingredient can be highly effective in providing photoprotection. Bottom Line The topical application of vitamin E may help promote skin freshness; however, consuming it through diet or supplements can do wonders. Check out the Diamond Glow supplement that is packed with vitamin A, C, and E as well as minerals and fruit extracts for promoting your skin health.

Glutathione is a powerful antioxidant, popularly known for treating skin conditions like psoriasis, autism (neurological damage in children), and more. It’s also essential for the proper functioning of the immune system, tissue building, and protecting cells from the damage caused by free radicals.  Our body naturally produces l-glutathione; however, its reduced levels can make your body cells more vulnerable to oxidative stress. That’s when you’ll have to consume it through diet or supplements.  We have come up with the 5 top health benefits of l-glutathione and listed some foods rich in l-glutathione so that you never get short of it. Let’s get started. 5 Amazing Benefits of L-Glutathione for Your Health May Improve Psoriasis Symptoms   Research on whey protein indicates that oral intake of it can improve psoriasis, an autoimmune skin condition, either with or without additional treatment. Consumption of whey protein is proven to increase l-glutathione levels. However, further research is still needed to back this claim. Can Help Fight Autoimmune Diseases Autoimmune diseases causing chronic inflammation may lead to higher oxidative stress, such as celiac disease, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis. A study suggests that glutathione can help reduce oxidative stress by either stimulating or reducing the immunological response. What happens is autoimmune diseases attack the cell mitochondria, whereas glutathione guards the mitochondria by destroying free radicals.  May Reduce Parkinson’s Disease Symptoms Parkinson’s is a disease that affects the central nervous system and is currently incurable. Research reveals that maintaining a good level of glutathione has positive effects on symptoms of Parkinson’s disease but only when taken intravenously.  The effectiveness of oral glutathione supplements in Parkinson’s patients still needs further research to support its use. However, injected glutathione can reduce rigidity and tremors. May Reduce Liver Cell Damage Sometimes liver cell damage occurs due to alcoholic and non-alcoholic fatty liver diseases. A study conducted in 2017 shows that antioxidant properties and detoxifying quality of glutathione can aid both non-alcoholic and alcoholic fatty liver diseases. However, more research is required to confirm glutathione’s effectiveness in liver diseases. Can Treat Autism Spectrum Disorders Children having autism are reported to have low glutathione levels compared to those without autism. Results of a study conducted in 2011 suggest that intravenous or oral intake of glutathione can reduce some symptoms of autism. However, the study does not specifically involve children to see whether the symptoms improved or not, so larger research is required to determine the glutathione effect. L-Glutathione Food Sources  You can maintain healthy levels of l-glutathione in your body by consuming foods high in sulfur. These foods are as follows: Eggs  Legumes  Broccoli Cauliflower Allium veggies like onion and garlic Chicken and fish Flaxseed  If you have insomnia or sleep apnea, that may also negatively affect l-glutathione levels in your body. Therefore, make sure to get enough sleep to boost its levels. Take Away L-glutathione is a powerful antioxidant produced in the body’s cells. However, its levels often decrease due to excessive exposure to the sun, toxins, stress, and other reasons. Boosting l-glutathione levels through dietary or supplementary means can give many health benefits, such as reducing psoriasis, Parkinson’s disease symptoms, and liver cell damage.

Generally, psoriasis patients, along with skin problems, often experience mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and feeling of guilt,  shame, or helplessness. They may also feel sinking self-esteem in addition to anger. Let’s see how psoriasis leads to mental health problems. Mental Health and Psoriasis Worldwide extensive research has shown that psoriasis and mental health are somehow interconnected. Results of a case study show that 16.5% of American patients with psoriasis experienced depression regardless of the severity of the disease.  Another study reveals that individuals having psoriasis are more likely to experience anxiety, depression, and sleeping disorders than those without psoriasis.  How Psoriasis Affects Mental Health  As we discussed above psoriasis often affects mental health, but how exactly it happens and the mechanism is still unknown. However, a few reasons and biological mechanisms might be implicated.  For instance, if you are suffering from psoriasis and anxiety at the same time, it might be due to the following symptoms: Chronic itching   Skin appearance due to itching and associated stigma  Fear of lacking social support  Suppose a person worries all the time about how people perceive them. In that case, this might trigger the stress system, especially the amygdala, which releases stress hormones, including cortisol, that initiates a vicious cycle. The stress targets psoriasis flare-ups that worsen the situation further and increase stress. In some cases, skin treatment dissatisfaction also leads to depression. Moreover, some people undergo depression when they can not enjoy the physical activities they used to before psoriasis because of pain or due to the fear that they will spread psoriasis to other people.  However, there might be some biological reasons behind the depression in psoriasis patients. For instance, psoriasis and stress both are linked with high levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines,  such as Interleukin (IL)-1B, tumor necrosis factor (TNF), and IL-6. These proteins are responsible for stimulating the immune system response.  Another possible biological mechanism is that depression causes reduced melatonin levels, resulting in anti-inflammatory effects. So people with skin disorders such as psoriasis may have low melatonin levels. Psoriasis Treatment and Mental Health Getting treated for psoriasis often improves a person’s mental health condition. If the treatment is effective in clearing the larger portions of psoriasis, this makes the individual feel healthy and confident about themselves.  Also, less pain will allow the person to participate in social gatherings and physical activities that further boost self-esteem. In case treating skin conditions won’t work for a person, then doctors usually refer a patient to a psychiatrist for evaluation.  Ways to Manage Your Mental Health during Psoriasis In order to feel better, here are a few questions a person needs to ask themselves to figure out how psoriasis affects their mental health. Do they feel good or anxious about their appearance How do they feel during breakouts Do they worry about what others will think of their appearance Does the person still feel anxiety even though their psoriasis is well managed Does that make them upset if they can not participate in their favorite activities due to pain Does psoriasis make you avoid social gatherings Once you start understanding how psoriasis affects your mental health, consult a therapist to figure it out further. Doing this will help you reduce the symptoms and recover faster.  Bottom Line  To sum up, mental health concerns are common in psoriasis patients. But discussing their feelings with a therapist will surely help them get the right treatment and go towards betterment.

Whiteheads or closed comedones are non-inflammatory acne lesions caused by clogged skin pores. People often feel relaxed after popping whiteheads, but squeezing them may cause skin infection, redness, scarring, or blemishes. Skincare experts never recommend squeezing whiteheads on your own. Let’s learn in detail the pros and cons of popping whiteheads.  What Causes Whiteheads? Whiteheads are annoying and may worsen, sometimes leading to severe skin lesions. They are caused by the accumulation of dead skin cells, bacteria, dust, or excess sebum in the clogged skin pores. Other most common causes of whiteheads are: Hormonal changes Family history Menstruation Pregnancy Puberty Certain contraceptive drugs Should You Squeeze Whiteheads? Whiteheads are usually a mild form of acne that can be treated quickly; however, the way of treatment determines your skin health. Popping or picking a whitehead immediately after it appears may irritate or damage your skin and leave a permanent scar on that particular area.  Moreover, squeezing whiteheads may also cause negative impacts on your skin, such as infection, bruising, rash, or redness. Here is why you should avoid popping whiteheads.  Picking the whitehead opens a skin pore that may increase the risk of bacterial infection. Harsh squeezing may cause skin scratches and tiny abrasions where germs can easily penetrate the skin.  Touching the skin without sanitizing your hands may cause bacterial infections.  How to Prevent and Manage Whiteheads? Preventing whiteheads is difficult in case of medical reasons; however, it’s not impossible. Here are some tips that might help you to prevent whiteheads: Take good care of your skin hygiene Apply non-comedogenic skin products as they reduce the risk of acne breakouts Avoid unnecessarily touching skin Make sure to cleanse and moisturize your skin daily  Gently exfoliate your skin about 1-2 times a week OTC Treatment for Whiteheads The most common treatment for whiteheads is OTC medication. Some incredible OTC medications include: Retinoids are great for improving skin’s natural turnover and getting rid of whiteheads and clogged pores. You might also notice an improvement in the tone and glow of your skin. The acne associated adverse effects can be reduced by using retinoids every other day or at the same time as a moisturizer. Benzoyl Peroxide targets the surface bacteria and inflammatory toxins, thus reducing acne risk.  Salicylic acid can be used in cleansers, as an exfoliator,  or in other skincare products. It effectively removes the topmost damaged skin layer or acne in the form of whiteheads or blackheads. Moreover, it also improves skin texture and natural glow. Azelaic acid in various OTC medications is perfect for killing bacteria on the skin, thus helping reduce the chances of inflammation and acne. Bottom Line  Don’t go squeeze whiteheads on your own. Instead, seek medical advice from your dermatologist as they will guide you about the safe methods to extract the whiteheads according to your skin type. Moreover, professional treatment may reduce the risk of infections or skin lesions.