Sun & Aging
Skin Cancer
Genetics (skin type and family history) and history of sun exposure and “early burns” give one a tendency for more concerning skin lesions like Actinic Keratoses, Basal Cell Carcinomas, Squamous Cell Carcinomas, and Melanomas.
No matter the skin type of the individual, whether fair-skinned or of darker complexion, an annual skin exam by a dermatologist is the recommended thing to do. Again, sunscreen is essential for every individual.
Fine Lines & Spots
Using a sunscreen with an SPF 30 or higher can help to prevent these consequences of sun exposure. The key is to REAPPLY the sunscreen every two hours when outdoors.
We now have our own state-of-the-art Candela VBEAM Perfecta Laser on site to reduce redness, brown spots and freckles. Along with our chemical peels and our W2 sublative skin rejuvenation device, you’ll see a genuine improvement in your skin, with no downtime.. You’ll be amazed at how easily this laser works, with no downtime!
Face & Scalp
Acne Vulgaris
Usually occurs beginning in puberty, but some people get acne lesions well into their 30s and 40s. Genetics, hormonal influence, and activity all contribute to the development of this disease that can have heavy social consequences. Multiple medical treatments are available, some of which can offer near permanent cures. Some cosmetic treatments, including chemical peels, also can improve acne in certain individuals.
Discoloration
This occurs for many reasons, whether by sunburn, excessive dryness, trauma, or acne lesions damaging the skin. Usually improved by sunscreen and moisturizers. Vitiligo is a disease whose hallmark is a complete loss of skin pigment in areas, usually symmetrically distributed.
Dandruff (Seborrheic Dermatitis)
“Dandruff” (or “cradle cap” in infants) can happen on the scalp, the eyebrows, the chest, and the sides of the nose. While chronic, it can be well managed with shampoos and creams.
Rosacea
“Adult acne” usually occurs in those in their 20s and older. While it generally occurs in those of northern European descent, anyone can get rosacea. It begins with red cheeks that “flush”, whether from blushing, drinking wine, or from eating spicy foods. Acne-like lesions then occur and oftentimes tiny blood vessels are visible on the individual’s cheeks. Rosacea is treated with antibiotics and topical medicines. A VBEAM laser can reduce the blood vessels, or telangiectasias that occur on the face.
Body
Dry Skin
Occurs for many reasons, but generally improves with cooler, shorter showers/baths and moisturizers. Creams tend to work better than lotions. Dry, rough hands improve by washing hands with milder soap in colder water, and wearing gloves when cleaning dishes or working around the house/yard.
Psoriasis
An inflammatory disease that is genetically linked and leads to well-defined pink, scaly plaques on the body, with a predilection for the elbows, knees, and scalp. Often times the nails are affected and some suffer with psoriatic arthritis. Many topical and light-therapy treatments are available, and newer, so-called “biologic” agents that are usually injected into the skin are making this difficult-to-treat disease much easier to handle.
Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)
The majority of cases occur in infants or children, but sometimes this difficult and itchy disease can persist into adulthood. Tends to occur in those with allergies or asthma and is genetically linked. Intense itching that leads to heavy scratching is the hallmark of this disease, which can be very difficult for parents of those young infants to handle. Many topical treatments are available, along with the measures we use to treat dry skin. For older children and adults who suffer from this, there are oral medicines and light-treatments that provide benefit.
Fungus
Inflammation caused by fungus in the top layer of skin that can lead to specific changes in hair, nails, and/or a rash in the skin. Oftentimes this is transmitted from person to person, or from animals or plants to people. Treatment is either topical or with oral medication.
Warts (Verruca Vulgaris)
Our VBEAM perfecta laser is available at all times to treat warts and other skin conditions.
Moles (Nevi)
Skin-colored, pink, or brown spots can occur anywhere on the body. Know your “ABCDs” of moles! “A” is for asymmetry (most often they should be round) “B” is for border (usually well-defined and of regular shape), “C” is for color (usually less concerning when evenly toned), and “D” is for diameter (generally less than 6mm or the size of a pencil eraser). I sometimes add “E” for enlarging or changing (usually stop growing in adulthood). A monthly skin check is smart; get to know your moles. However, everyone should have at least an annual skin exam by a dermatologist. Melanomas can arise from normal skin or from pre-existing moles.
Hair
Hair Loss (Alopecia)
Can be genetically linked (male or female pattern alopecia), and can also result from disease states or medical treatments. Alopecia Areata is a disease noted for well-defined, perfectly shaped patches of hair loss that can occur anywhere on the body where hair exists, but tends to occur most commonly on the scalp and face. Many treatments exist for hair loss, and it’s important to discuss these with your dermatologist, the board-certified expert in skin, hair, and nails.
Excessive Hair Growth
Can be genetic and completely normal, but cosmetically undesirable to some individuals. Also can occur from disease states and can be detected from certain blood work, including hormone levels. Depilatories and electrolysis can be beneficial. We have our own, state-of-the-art Candela Gentlelase Laser to permanently reduce dark hair. There is no downtime and the results are amazing!