FASHION y — it’s more than just skin deep AN OLD Japanese proverb says “Beauty is only one layer.” What this implies is that the real beauty of a person lies in his or her personality, . But throughout the ages, people have yearned for beauty and have spent time and money to change their hair color, have plastic surgery to nip and tuck excessive fat, and even purchase creams, lotions and potions that “promise” total beauty. Society challenges us every day because it puts such a heavy emphasis on youthful- years and although their effect was initially positive, it tended to decrease with extended use. As well, a number of side effects were noticed, “Although topical steroids are common for the treat- ment of some acute skin conditions, they may not specifically be well suited to treat a chronic skin condi- tion like psoriasis,” said Dr. Colin Ramsay, head of the dermatology division at Toronto Hospital. “Steroids have many side effects that become apparent over time, so that’s why we try to use lower- strength steroids. For example, decades. Since it's a non-steroidal ointment, it has a high safety pro- fife that doesn’t have the side effects that are associated with other treatments. Dovonex has been gaining posi- tive responses from people with psoriasis since its introduction on the Canadian market almost two years ago. Clinical studies have shown that it is well liked by patients and blends easily into the skin, leaving no stain or odor. Research to find safe and new medications to treat skin conditions such as psoriasis is ness by perpetuating A 0) 0iN 2. the beauty myth — the crucial importance of possessing a flaw- less appearance. Anybody who deviates from this societally imposed myth is considered different. But many people face additional chal- lenges. They develop or inherit skin conditions that alter their appear- ance and set them apart by making them stand out. Not only do they develop a figurative “thick skin” to protect themselves against humili- ating questions and curious stares, but their actual skin changes us well. One condition that more and more Canadians are becoming increasingly aware of is psoriasis. It’s a non-contagious chronic condition in which the layers of skin don’t shed as quickly as does regular skin. These layers pile up and become thick, red and some- times itchy. Over the years, many treatments have been concocted to make skin with psoriasis regain its normal appearance. Some of the old remedies even included toxic substances such as arsenic and mercury. In the 1920s, crude coal tar oint- ments were discovered as a method that helped skin with psoriasis. They were smeared all over the skin to reduce the size and severity of the psoriasis plaques. It wasn’t until the 1950s that the “gold standard” treatment was developed, in the form of cortico- steroids, more commonly called steroids. They have improved over the ALCOIIOL AND BOATING DON'T MIX DO YOU? ais The Canadian Red Cross Society CLEARANCE SALE § of ladies sportswear Thurs - Sun Aug 25-28 i0 am - 2 pm 1450 Rupert St.N.Van §& {lane entrance) off Main & Mrn. Hwy § CASH ONLY ALL SALES FINAL & Bott gt 66 some people may notice, when a steroid is used for a long period, its effectiveness drops off. This means that a patient may have to use a stronger steroid, and more of it, to achieve the same resuit.” One side effect noticed with steroids is the rebound effect. The steroids clear the skin lesions so a person will suddenly stop using them, which may then cause the psoriasis to reappear, pos- sibly worse than it was before. People who use steroids may also experience something called atrophy or thinning of the skin. “The psoriasis on my hands was almost all gone, but I didn’t have any skin left. It was too thin,” said one person who used steroids and didn’t want to be identified. People may also experience stretch marks, loss of skin pigment, excessive hair growth and broken blood vessels beneath the skin, which cause redness and are also known as spider veins, if high- strength steroids are used for long periods. In the °90s, another advance occurred in the treatment of psoria-. sis — a natural vitamin D deriva- tive called Dovonex (calcipotriol). Donovex has been described as one of the most significant advances in the treatment of mild to moderate psoriasis in close to three Janis Knowles Dori and Tony Willett are pleased to welcome Janis Knowles as manager of Trevenen Apparel in Park Royal. With over 20 years business, setail and wardrobe experience. Janis is available fo assist you with all your clothing needs. Come in and visit our cappuccino bar and say hello. Over the years, many treatments have been concocted to make skin with psoriasis regain its normal appearance Hopefully one day doctors will find a cure, Until then we must try to remember not to get so caught up with societal norms that we forget to look at the person beneath the skin. Remember what your mother always told you, “It's not what a person looks like; it's what's on the inside that counts!” If you are currently using a med- ication and are concerned about possible shurt- and long-term side effects, or if you have psoriasis or think you do, speak to you: doctor. CANADIAN ATHLETES arrive In Victoria this week sporting a winning attitude and great-looking uniforms. On today's best sunglasses for fashion, comfort and maximum UV protection - SERENGETI! Value PLUS Advantage FREE No-Matie:-What GUARANTEE AGAINST BREAKAGE FREE ADJUSTMENTS & ALIGNMENT FREE AFTER CARE HOT 1994 MODELS