What it is: Basically, this is an allergy-induced rash. Poison ivy falls under this category, but allergies from cosmetics fall under this as well. Common triggers: neomycin in Neosporin and preservatives in makeup and fragrance.
How to treat it: "Treatment is with steroids -- topical if the reaction is mild, injectable and/or oral if it is severe (eyes swollen, etc.)," Waldorf says. To prevent future reactions, figure out what you are allergic to and avoid it. If you're having trouble, a dermatologist or allergist can help you get to the bottom of your reaction with contact patch testing.
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Dandruff
What causes it: Dandruff is caused by a reaction to the fungus malassezia globosa (which is actually on everyone's scalp, but only about 50 percent of the population reacts to it). The reaction can cause redness, itching, flakes and oiliness.
How to treat it: Using a shampoo and conditioner with pyrithione zinc will fight the fungus and help with your symptoms. Trygstad says that when using a conditioner with these ingredients, it's important to get the product into the scalp for maximum benefit. Also, only use dandruff shampoo in conjunction with a conditioner that also contains pyrithione zinc or skip conditioner completely. Regular conditioner can strip away the active ingredient in dandruff shampoo. (One to try: Head & Shoulders Classic Clean 2 in 1 Shampoo and Conditioner, $11.90.)
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Neck Wrinkles
What causes them: Sagging skin is caused by a loss of collagen and elastic tissue," Kauvar says. "These proteins give the skin strength and structure, and their amount decreases with age. Sun exposure also contributes."
How to prevent them: Kauvar says regular use of sunscreen and moisturizers with collagen-boosting ingredients can help prevent wrinkles, but not necessarily fix ones that are already there. (One to try: Clarins Advanced Extra-Firming Neck Cream, $59.99.)
How to treat them: "Laser and light procedures like Titan, Thermage and fractional CO2 lasers can help reduce early neck wrinkles, but surgery is the only option when the skin becomes excessively loose," Kauvar says. "Botox or Dysport injections can help smooth crepey neck skin."
Sure, we all get the occasional breakout or dry patch of skin, but if you're suffering from a more serious hair or skin issue then you need serious help. That's why we asked Dr. Heidi Waldorf, director of Laser and Cosmetic Dermatology at the Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York City, Arielle N. B. Kauvar, M.D., director of New York Laser & Skin Care, Jerry Teuschler, Principal Scientist for Proctor and Gamble Beauty and Grooming Science, and Head & Shoulders hairstylist Ryan Trygstad to weigh in. They gave advice for the big issues facing TotalBeauty.com readers (per their outreach for help on our message boards and in letters to the editors), so read on for relief from your hair and skin woes.
