Cha-Cha Through the Menopausal Changes with Soft Skin

MAPLE GROVE, Minn., Dec. 7, 2011  /PRNewswire/ -- Womanhood definitely has its advantages—studies even show we live longer than men—but menopause isn't on the list of perks. Sometime between the ages of 40-58, our bodies will inevitably experience a drop in estrogen production and begin a metamorphosis. Along with the hot flashes and night sweats, the lack of estrogen contributes to a loss of the skin's natural oils and moisture, making dry, itchy skin another common symptom of menopause. It's hard enough to manage hot flashes, let alone the havoc this phase of your life can wreak on your skin.  The good news is that with a twice daily application of AmLactin® Moisturizing Body Lotion, you can strive to cha-cha your way through menopause and not miss a beat looking your best.  AmLactin® is formulated with emollient and humectant ingredients plus potent alpha-hydroxy therapy (lactic acid) to gently exfoliate and intensely hydrate rough, dry skin, leaving it soft and smooth.

"Estrogen stimulates the formation of collagen, a natural skin smoother, and natural oils.  When menopause hits, estrogen production slows, and the skin becomes drier," said Dr. Alan Fleischer, professor in the department of dermatology at Wake Forest University School of Medicine. "It's important to pick up the slack and supplement with an intense moisturizer that contains 12% lactic acid, a naturally occurring humectant which attracts water molecules to the skin to keep it hydrated."

In addition to being affected by aging, dry skin can occur at any time in life due to seasonal weather changes, harsh soaps, or detergents.  It can also be associated with a skin condition called Keratosis Pilaris (KP).  According to the American Academy of Dermatology, approximately 40 percent of the population may have KP. Sufferers may experience a higher incidence of outbreaks of dry skin associated with KP in cold weather due to harsh, dry conditions.

About Keratosis Pilaris (KP)

People with KP may experience flesh-colored or red bumps around hair follicles on the upper arms, thighs, buttocks, and cheeks, along with extremely rough, dry skin. There is no cure for KP, and its cause remains unknown; however, it tends to run in families.  It is important to be aware that other medical conditions can mimic KP, so people with these symptoms should visit a doctor or dermatologist to confirm a diagnosis.   

About the AmLactin® Family of Moisturizers

The AmLactin® family of moisturizers is ideal for managing a variety of dry skin conditions including dry skin associated with KP. Every AmLactin® product is formulated with emollient and humectant ingredients plus a potent alpha-hydroxy acid therapy to exfoliate and hydrate skin, leaving it soft and smooth. The line includes AmLactin® Moisturizing Body Lotion, AmLactin® Moisturizing Body Cream, AmLactin XL® Moisturizing Lotion for severe dry skin and AmLactin® Foot Cream Therapy.

AmLactin XL® contains the unique patented ULTRAPLEX® formula, which is an extra-strength blend of three moisturizing compounds that are derived from lactic acid, an alpha-hydroxy acid moisturizer. AmLactin XL® is a clinically proven, superior moisturizer to 40% urea cream and 12% ammonium lactate lotion for severe dry skin.

As with all products containing AHA, be sun smart: also use sunscreen, wear protective clothing and limit sun exposure while using these products and for a week afterwards.

All AmLactin® products are available without a prescription at Costco, Walmart, Walgreens, CVS, www.drugstore.com and other fine retailers nationwide. For more information, visit www.amlactin.com where you can search the store locator to find a store where AmLactin® can be purchased and download valuable coupons.   For tips on managing dry skin associated with Keratosis Pilaris and to watch a video on "How Lactic Acid Works," visit www.littleredbumps.com.

Some skin conditions may be worsened by moisturizers, so people should always follow their doctors' skin care recommendations.

Upsher-Smith

Upsher-Smith Laboratories, Inc. is a rapidly-growing pharmaceutical company that manufactures, distributes, and markets both consumer and prescription products. Upsher-Smith prides itself on providing safe, effective and economical therapies to the ever-changing healthcare environment. For more information, visit www.upsher-smith.com.

Dr. Fleischer consults on behalf of Upsher-Smith Laboratories, Inc.

Sources:

WebMD. "Why Do Women Live Longer Than Men?" http://women.webmd.com/news/20060511/why-women-live-longer. Accessed October 11, 2011.

WebMD. "Menopause and Dry Skin: The Hormone Connection." http://www.webmd.com/healthy-beauty/features/menopause-dry-skin-hormone-connection. Accessed October 11, 2011.

American Academy of Dermatology. "Dry Skin & Keratosis Pilaris." Educational Pamphlet, 2009.  

Nili, A. "Keratosis Pilaris." http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1070651-overview. Accessed October 21, 2011.

Data on File.  Upsher-Smith Laboratories, Inc.

SOURCE Upsher-Smith Laboratories, Inc.