BODY promotion
Baby face
Dr DeAmbrosis
For a smooth skinned pregnancy journey, we talked to one of Brisbane’s leading dermatologists. The usual comprehensive pregnancy upkeep may not involve a skincare routine, but dermatologist at Valley Plastic Surgery, Dr Kate DeAmbrosis, has seen many patients come forward with pre and post-partum skin problems. Common concerns include melasma – or ‘mask of pregnancy’ – and linea nigra, which are pigmentary changes in the skin from hormonal impacts. Stretch marks are also common on the abdomen and thighs, as well as skin tags, which are small growths of excess skin that develop on the upper trunk. Patients prone to eczema, psoriasis or acne often worry the hormonal changes can cause flare ups or that these conditions can pass onto the baby. However, Dr DeAmbrosis
reassures immune changes associated with pregnancy can improve inflammatory dermatoses, and maternal skin diseases don’t impact the baby, nor reflect the likelihood of the child being born with the condition. From prescribed medication to phototherapy, there are plenty of safe treatments for skin problems during pregnancy. Valley Plastic Surgery offers the newly developed phototherapy system, the Waldmann UV 7002, as a physical treatment alternative to medication for conditions like psoriasis, which can inflame in pregnancy and breastfeeding. Dr DeAmbrosis also stresses the importance of developing a strong photoprotective skincare routine
early. “With the many options available today, there’s guaranteed to be a sunscreen that suits everyone,” she says. “Working your choice agent into your morning routine is protective not only against skin cancer, but in assisting to combat the many changes your skin will face through the pregnancy and post-partum period.” VALLEY PLASTIC SURGERY 51 BALLOW ST, FORTITUDE VALLEY P 3488 8118 VALLEYPLASTICSURGERY.COM.AU
promotion
WE’RE BRINGING YOU THESE TIPS FOR SAFE AND HEALTHY TRAVEL IN FUTURE.
Vacation veins
If you’re not moving, your blood isn’t either. Whether it’s on the road or in the air, those who suffer with varicose veins should think about how they travel. If you have venous disease or a family history of varicose veins, then you could be at risk of complications, such as Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) or a blood clot. The greatest danger is a clot breaking loose and travelling to the lungs, causing a pulmonary embolism. A scary thought, but not one that should stop you enjoying your trip because these easy steps can make a difference: • Put on that tracksuit! Do not wear tight clothes that inhibit movement. Loose clothing allows unrestricted blood flow. 34
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• Keep moving. Bend and straighten your legs, massage your calf muscles and wriggle your toes. If you’re taking a road trip, stop every couple of hours for a short walk. During air or train travel, walk up and down the aisles for five minutes every hour. • Wear stockings. Compression improves circulation by gently applying pressure, stimulating blood flow. Travel socks can be bought from chemists, however, if you’re at risk, you should consider getting compression stockings from a phlebologist. • Drink plenty of water. Avoid alcoholic beverages that can contribute to dehydration, which is often made worse by STYLEMAGAZINES.COM.AU
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the low humidity onboard planes. • Skip the pill. Taking a sleeping aid might help sleep, but it will keep you from moving around. Discuss other choices with your GP, such as homeopathic treatments or meditation. THE LEG VEIN DOCTOR 485 MILTON RD, AUCHENFLOWER P 3720 9912 THELEGVEINDOCTOR.COM