Sore nipples are the most common breastfeeding complication and the most common reason women give up breastfeeding. Cracked nipples are characterized by red, irritated, and scabbed skin on or around the nipple. An estimated 38% of people who experience problems with breastfeeding have sore or cracked nipples. What Causes Cracked Nipples? Cracked nipples are most often due to nipple trauma. It can affect both men and women as a result of chafing against clothing or tissue damage from cuts or blows. It may be more likely if the nipples protrude more. During breastfeeding, causes of cracked nipples include: problems with...
What exactly is a stretch mark? A stretch mark is a type of scar that develops when our skin stretches or shrinks quickly. The abrupt change causes the collagen and elastin, which support our skin, to rupture. As the skin heals, stretch marks may appear. Stretch marks appear on the abdomen, breasts, hips, buttocks or other places on the body. They're common in pregnant women, especially during the last trimester. Stretch marks aren't painful or harmful, but some people don't like the way they make their skin look. When stretch marks first appear, they tend to be red, purple, pink,...
What is athlete’s foot? Athlete’s foot — also called tinea pedis — is a contagious fungal infection that affects the skin on the feet. It can also spread to the toenails and the hands. The fungal infection is called athlete’s foot because it’s commonly seen in athletes. What causes athlete’s foot? Athlete’s foot occurs when the tinea fungus grows on the feet. You can catch the fungus through direct contact with an infected person, or by touching surfaces contaminated with the fungus. The fungus thrives in warm, moist environments. It’s commonly found in showers, on locker room floors, and around...
Many of us are committed to a daily facial skin care routine which focuses on clearing our complexions and reducing the appearance of fine lines. However, as the neck is often neglected, it’s more susceptible to developing lines and wrinkles over time. Causes Neck wrinkles can be caused by a combination of factors, including the natural aging process, sun exposure, posture, and as a result of smoking and drinking. Aging As we age, the production of collagen, a protein responsible for maintaining the skin’s elasticity and strength, decreases within our bodies. As a result, our skin becomes less firm and more prone to...