Don't Sweat It! Tips on Sweat & Your Skin From Dr. Patel

Photo courtesy of flickr user Chris Hunkeler

 If you're regularly at the gym in sweaty workout clothes and sneakers, we applaud you. But while burning calories and sweating it out at your favorite hot yoga class is great for your core, it can have negative effects on your skin. When you sweat, your pores open up, releasing moisture and making your skin highly vulnerable to bacteria. You might not realize that your awesome gym routine is what is actually causing your skin to break out, so here are a few tips to help keep the breakouts at bay while you work up a sweat. Here are a few tips from Dr. Purvisha Patel on sweat and your skin.

1. Don't wear makeup while working out. Although it is tempting to look good while you’re cranking it out on the treadmill, sweat and makeup do not mix well. Most makeup contains ingredients that clog open pores and lead to acne. If you absolutely must have something on your face, go with a loose mineral powder that shields your skin from sweat and is less likely to cause a breakout. 
2. Wash your face before and after a workout. Rid your skin of any bacteria before and after you workout to cut down on clogged pores. Wash your face gently and avoid heavy scrubbing. Blot your face with a clean towel afterward. 
3. Wear lightweight material. Choose a lightweight and breathable fabric such as cotton to work out in so your skin has room to breathe. Clingy, synthetic fabrics lock in moisture and can create a breeding ground for bacteria. 
4. Keep sweat off of your face. Try to keep as much sweat off of your face as possible by wearing a headband or hair wrap. Also, avoid touching your face with your hands. You never know what kind of germs and bacteria are lurking on the gym equipment! 
5. Cleanse your face daily. Use a cleanser that contains benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. These medications treat acne and come as lotions, gels, soaps and liquids.
6. Wipe down the equipment. Always wipe down all equipment with a disinfectant wipe or spray before and after use. 
7. Exfoliate your skin. Gently exfoliate your skin a few times each week with a scrub. Scrubbing your skin too hard or too many times a week can lead to dryness, so keep it gentle. 
8. Change your workout clothes. As tempting as it may be, do not wear the same workout clothes twice in a row, especially if you sweat heavily. Make sure you wash them and your towels in between workouts.  
9. Be careful with your towel. Do not just lay your towel anywhere. Avoid putting it on the treadmill screen, gym mats or any other equipment that may contain other people’s sweat.   
10. Avoid equipment friction. Avoid clothes or equipment that will cause friction, such as a tight helmet. Areas that are extremely tight can retain the moisture and clog pores. If you do need to use a helmet or other restrictive equipment during a workout, make sure to cleanse your forehead well afterward. 

Sweat is natural and is healthy for you, but there are ways to keep it from ruining your skin. We want your skin to feel good and look good. Have any questions about sweat that we didn’t address here? Leave them in the comments, and we’ll try to answer them there. 

See Sun Spot, Run!

What are they?
 Solar lentigines, more commonly referred to as sunspots, age spots or liver spots, are lasting patches of discolored skin. These usually appear on the skin as brown or gray splotches and vary in size and shape. Sunspots tend to show up on parts of the body that are exposed to the sun most often, such as the face, hands, shoulders and chest. They are usually accompanied by other signs of sun damage, such as wrinkles and dry, thinning skin. Although sunspots usually develop on older people after years of sun exposure, young people can get them as well. With the rising trend of tanning beds, the early exposure to UV rays can sometimes cause skin to spot prematurely.

What causes them?

• Overexposure to UV rays from sunlight or tanning beds is the most common cause of sunspots. Fair-colored skin is more susceptible to sunspots than darker skin tones. UV rays cause the skin to increase melanin production, which is the pigment in hair, skin and eyes.
• Excessive melanin production can cause certain areas of the skin to become darker than the surrounding areas. Melanin is the tan color in the skin associated with sunbathing. The true purpose of melanin is to consume UV radiation and protect new cells in deeper layers of the skin, not to create an “attractive” appearance. Older skin is more prone to sunspots because it has a harder time clearing melanin from the system.
• Sun allergies may cause white spots to appear after sun exposure. These spots can be caused by sun, but may also develop due to exposure to other outdoor elements that agitate skin, such as fungus. Be mindful of these fungal infections that can cause these white spots, as they will likely spread to other parts of the body.
• Severe sunburns can also cause white spots to develop after the burn heals. The spots appear because the burn damaged the skin’s pigmentation.

 Should I be worried?

Except for the inherent cosmetic issue, sunspots are relatively harmless and are not a direct indication that you will get (or already have) skin cancer. However, having sunspots is an indication that the skin has been sufficiently damaged by the sun, which puts you at a greater risk for developing skin cancer. See your dermatologist yearly for a spot check to make sure your spots aren’t actually moles that can change into a cancerous lesion.

Treatments and remedies

• Applying aloe vera gel on affected areas twice daily can help heal sun-damaged skin. For best results, apply sooner rather than later.
• Medical creams containing corticosteroids may also help return the skin to its original state.
• Apply a slice of fresh lemon or lime directly onto the sunspots for 10-15 minutes daily. The acid helps in lightening the spots and removing dead skin cells. Results are usually seen after daily use for two or more weeks.
• Squeeze a used green tea bag onto a cotton ball and rub it over the spots. The tea contains antioxidants that can help skin repair itself.
• Break open a vitamin E capsule and apply the gel directly to the sunspots. The same vitamin E properties that can help fade scars will also help fade sunspots.
• Professional options are also available, such as laser resurfacing, chemical peels and cryotherapy.

Prevention

Protect your skin from the sun and UV damage by avoiding indoor tanning, staying out of direct sunlight as much as possible and wearing a hat or light-colored clothing outdoors.

If you have to be in the sun, use a broad-spectrum SPF 30 sunscreen.

Have any more questions? Leave them in the comments below or make an appointment  with Advanced Dermatology.

Coping With Rosacea

Do people comment on your constantly rosy cheeks? Have you noticed your face appearing sunburned for no apparent reason? Getting tired of people telling you to lighten up on the blush? If any of these things are common for you, it could be rosacea.

Rosacea is a common skin condition affecting approximately 16 million Americans. It typically manifests at or after age 30. This chronic disease is characterized by redness or pimples on the cheeks, nose, chin or forehead. Although rosacea is more common in women, men tend to exhibit more severe symptoms. The cause of this condition is unknown, and there is no cure. But don’t lose hope just yet! Having rosacea does NOT mean you have to suffer! By knowing the symptoms and proper treatment methods, this condition can be easily controlled.

Symptoms

Persistent redness is the most common symptom of rosacea. This flushing may come and go and often resembles a sunburn that does not go away.

Bumps and pimples, often resembling acne without blackheads, sometimes develop and may cause a burning or stinging sensation.

Visible blood vessels may also appear on the skin.

If left untreated, rosacea usually worsens over time. In severe cases, rhinophyma may develop. This refers to the enlarging of the nose due to a buildup of tissue, causing a swollen and bumpy appearance. Though it can be corrected with surgery, the condition may return. 

Triggers

As triggers may vary from patient to patient, constant monitoring is necessary to determine what causes flare-ups for each individual. Common triggers include:

• Alcohol
• Spicy foods
• Emotional stress
• Heat
• Sun and wind exposure

Treatment

The good news is that rosacea is easily controllable and medically manageable! Because the signs of this disease vary from person to person, you should see a dermatologist for treatment that is tailored to your specific skin type. Your doctor may prescribe oral or topical medications, but daily skin care also can help reverse the symptoms of rosacea. Some at-home treatment methods include:

• Use skin care products for sensitive skin that are non-abrasive. Rinse the cleanser with lukewarm water and blot (don’t rub) your face dry with a cotton towel.
• Ladies should consider green-tinted foundations. It may sound odd, but think about it: Because red and green are complementary colors, the green makeup will help counter facial redness. Even if you don’t use the green-tinted foundation, always make sure to avoid pink or orange hues that will make your rosacea more prominent!

Do you have any other questions regarding rosacea, symptoms or treatments?  Leave your questions or comments below, and I’ll try to help you out! If you need an appointment with Advanced Dermatology, click here.

Skin Through the Ages: 50s and Beyond

photo © 2012 Quinn Dombrowski, Flickr

*This is the final post in a series called “Skin Through the Ages.” The series will focus on how to take care of and manage skin at various points in life.

You may be wondering why I’m even writing this post, because worrying about your skin in your 50s seems pointless. Why bother if you can’t stop Mother Nature? While that may be true, there’s no reason to feel like you should just let go of your skin care routine. Actors like George Clooney and Jamie Lee Curtis look amazing after 50, and you can too. It’s true that they have access to Hollywood plastic surgeons, personal chefs and trainers, but you can get great results without those things. Here are some tips to keep you looking and feeling fabulous in your 50s and beyond.

Same song and dance
You’ll want to keep up the good habits that I hope you developed in your teens and 20s. Wash your skin on a regular basis with products tailored to your skin type and needs. Eat a healthy diet. Stay hydrated. Stay out of the sun. Wear sunscreen. Stay active. Following these basic health tips will help you look and feel younger.

Neck & décolletage
You’re probably noticing some sagging and drooping in the jaw, neck and décolletage areas. This happens over time as collagen in skin breaks down, along with other factors such as losing weight too rapidly. The skin simply doesn’t have the elasticity and the ability to bounce back like it used to. Check out our post on “The Science of Aging” for more information on why this happens. To combat it, make sure to use a rich facial cream (yes ladies, even on your “ladies”) to help these areas as much as possible. If need be, look into more intense methods like surgery and lasers to help get rid of those jowls.

Lighten up
If you haven’t been diligent about using sunscreen, then sunspots are probably a side effect you are unhappily dealing with. Luckily, there are products designed to help lighten those areas. Look for makeup that gives the appearance of even-toned skin or bleaching facial products that actually lighten the spot over time. Our blog post on the best anti-aging makeup can help you identify the best products for you. Regardless of the method you choose, make sure to keep using sunscreen to avoid new skin damage.

The big guns
Fillers, injections, lasers or surgery are always viable options. We’ve seen and heard of plastic surgery horror stories, so do your research before choosing a skin care professional to perform any of these services. Make sure they are fully accredited, are using quality products and that they review all of the information and answer any questions pertaining to the service with you before you pay or sign on anything. You can also start by reading our posts on Botox and fillers to familiarize yourself with these options.

Smile
Simply put, smile. Nothing looks better on a person than a bright, confident smile. It makes you feel good, makes you look good and they’re oftentimes infectious. That’s the best and cheapest piece of advice I can suggest for any age.

Do you have more specific questions about skin care issues in your 50s and beyond that I didn’t touch on? Leave your questions in the comments below and I’ll try to help you out! If you need an appointment with Advanced Dermatology, click here. 

Skin Through the Ages: The 30s

*This post is the third in a series called “Skin Through the Ages.” The series will focus on how to take care of and manage skin at various points in life.

Do you feel like an adult yet? Ready or not, your face is starting to show it. Now is when you’ll begin to see the results of the work (or lack thereof) you put into your skin in your teens and your 20s. Your skin will start to dull in your 30s due to it not shedding dead skin cells at the same rate it did when you were younger. This is also when you may start to develop lines on your forehead, around your eyes or at the corners of your mouth. You may also see some sunspots, but don’t give up! Although you’re starting to see signs of aging, you can still slow down the process with proper care. Let’s go over what you should do during your 30s to help slow Mother Nature down.

Exfoliation
Now is the time to get serious about exfoliation. In your 30s, the rate at which your skin turns over new skin cells and sheds old ones slows, so you’ll need to help the process. Remember, according to the exfoliation blog post, pick an exfoliating product that is right for your skin, whether you choose a manual or chemical method. Choose a product that is gentle enough to use on a regular basis to keep skin from looking dull.

Anti-aging products
It’s sad to say, but it’s time to start incorporating anti-aging products into your skin care routine. Don’t go overboard and buy every product out there. Your skin is just starting to age and some anti-aging products might be too aggressive, which can irritate your skin. Add a good anti-aging facial cream and eye cream to your routine to help boost collagen levels and plump up those fine lines.

Sunscreen
You knew it was coming. Keep using your sunscreen every day, multiple times a day, regardless of the weather outside. Sun damage is the most preventative aging factor out there. Fair-skinned people will possibly begin to see some discoloration (sun spots) in their 30s if they haven’t been diligent about wearing sunscreen on a regular basis. Unless you want to look like this guy’s bad side, keep using your sunscreen!

In with the good
With all this talk of the body’s processes slowing down, the skin becoming damaged more easily and the body not recovering the way it used to, it’s more important than ever to consider what you’re putting into your body. Make sure you’re drinking at least 64 ounces of water each day to help flush out your body and help carry nutrients where they need to go. Eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, moderate amounts of whole grains, lean meats and good fats, and minimal amounts of sugar, caffeine and alcohol. Take a multi-vitamin daily to make sure your body gets all the nutrients it needs. Remember, we are what we eat, so eat the best foods possible to give yourself the healthiest body possible.

Are there any other concerns you might have about caring for your skin during your 30s? Post your questions and concerns in the comments below, and I’ll try to help you out! You can also schedule an appointment to meet with Dr. Patel by clicking here. 

Filling In Signs of Aging

You’ve probably heard of Botox. You may have read about it in our blog post from a few months ago. And you may think it’s your only option when it comes to a relatively inexpensive way to hide signs of aging.

Well, if that’s what you thought, you would be wrong.

There are a variety of filler options out there, all of which work in various ways. This post will give you The Skinny on fillers.

What are fillers?

Fillers, or dermal fillers, consist of a variety of elements by which to rejuvenate the skin and add volume to the face, lips or other parts of the body. Some fillers are made of soft tissue components that occur naturally in the body. Fillers can also be made up of the patient’s own fat from another part of his or her body or from a chemical developed to imitate soft tissue.

Generally used on the face, fillers can plump lips, smooth out facial creases or wrinkles and enhance shallow contours.

How long do fillers last?

Fillers are temporary. They usually last about three months, but there is a “semi-permanent” option involving polymethylmethacrylate, or PMMA fillers. These fillers are typically used to treat deep wrinkles or major scars.

What are fillers made of?

Chemical fillers are made to imitate the body’s own soft tissue. A few of the most common include:

• Collagen – Well-known for its lip-plumping ability, collagen is a natural substance. It occurs naturally in cartilage, teeth and bones.
• Hyaluronic acid – This substance occurs in the body’s soft connective tissue, the fluid in the eyes, cartilage, joint fluids and skin tissue. Although it works well as filler, it’s also often used to treat arthritis pain in joints.
• Calcium hydroxylapatite – Found in human bones, this is the heaviest facial filler available. Deep wrinkles often require a heavier filler like this.
• Polylactic acid – This synthetic chemical, while it does not occur naturally in the human body, does imitate soft tissue. Rather than showing immediate results, this filler helps the body produce more of its own collagen to support more long-term results.

Are fillers safe?

Unlike other, more permanent surgical procedures, fillers don’t require a lot of recovery time. Also, because many of them are made from substances that occur naturally in the body, they are safe for most people.

Some risks include:

• Bleeding
• Bruising
• Itching
• Migration of filler material (particularly if you apply pressure – such as applying makeup – too soon after the procedure)
• Redness
• Rash
• Sensitivity
• Swelling
• Temporary paralysis of facial muscles

What are the benefits of fillers versus traditional surgery?

Although fillers are temporary and surgery lasts longer, there are several benefits to choosing a filler. They include:

• Changing the type, amount or location of filler after the first round – Because fillers only last a few months, it’s possible to make adjustments as needed during a second or third treatment.
• Little or no recovery time – Unlike surgery, fillers can be injected quickly and the patient can be out and about as normal the same day.
• Fillers are less expensive than surgery – Although many offices offer a topical anesthetic if the patient is uneasy about needles, fillers do not have many of the costs associated with surgery. Surgical costs include anesthetic, recovery care and many other expensive aspects of the procedure.

What types of filler do you offer?

At Advanced Dermatology & Skin Cancer Associates, we offer several products:

• Radiesse^®
• Restylane^®
• Juvederm^®
• Perlane^®
• Sculptra^®
• Belatero^®
• Artefill^®

All fillers serve different purposes, and we always recommend a personal consultation with a dermatologist before making a decision.

Wondering if fillers are right for you? If you have any general questions about fillers just leave them in the comments and I’ll answer them there. If you have specific questions about your cosmetic care, find a qualified dermatologist in your area. If you’re in the Memphis area, call Advanced Dermatology at 901-759-2322.

The Whole Story: Accutane

 Some rights reserved by perry_marco

So you have acne. Your acne is very bad and you’re thinking only Accutane will cure it.

You may want to think a little harder about this decision. Accutane is very effective for treating acne, but also very powerful and potentially dangerous. In this blog post, I’ll outline some of the effective uses for the drug, as well as when you should take it – and if you should take it.

1.    See a dermatologist.

Acne is a medical problem. If you have a virus, you would go see a doctor, and acne is not different. If you have tried some of the over-the-counter washes and creams, it may be time to check out medical-grade treatments. But only a licensed dermatologist can provide you with the proper skin care you need to overcome your acne.

2.    Work with your dermatologist to evaluate your acne.

Although approximately 80 percent of teens and pre-teens have acne, most cases are not severe enough to warrant major treatment. Usually, some regimen of topical creams, medications and/or washes will do the trick. Your dermatologist can recommend which regimen will work best for you, and can make changes as needed.

3.    Exhaust all possible avenues.

There are hundreds of medical treatment options available to treat acne, so I would never recommend making Accutane your first choice. If you can use something gentler, milder or safer – do. Accutane really should be a last resort for particularly tough or persistent cases of acne.

4.    Discuss the pros and cons of Accutane.

Accutane works by reducing oil production in the body’s glands. As clogged pores are the primary reason for breakouts, Accutane is effective in reducing or eliminating acne for most people.

Although it can be very effective, Accutane can also be dangerous if not taken correctly or if precautions are not taken. Risks include:

• Serious birth defects if taken while pregnant
• Depression or other psychological side effects
• Liver problems related to fatty buildup

While taking Accutane, patients should not give blood, drink multiple alcoholic drinks at one time, have laser procedures or wax regularly.

5.    Educate yourself on the iPLEDGE program.

As a result of so many serious risks associated with Accutane, the drug is now only available through the iPLEDGE program. The program is designed to prevent Accutane-related birth defects. The program requires:

• Two forms of effective birth control (acceptable forms are spelled out by the program)
• For women - A negative pregnancy test 30 days prior to starting medication and every month prior to filling the prescription
• Monthly questionnaires to remind patients of the rules and risks associated with Accutane

6.    Take precautions.

Although Accutane-related birth defects are one of the biggest risks associated with the drug, it is important to consider others.

• Accutane patients should not drink, as the drug itself can cause fatty buildup in the liver. It can also replicate the effects of long-term drinking, like cirrhosis of the liver. Drinking multiple alcoholic drinks at once while taking Accutane can exacerbate potential liver problems.
• Patients will be required to undergo regular blood tests prior to fulfilling their prescriptions each month. This ensures (for women) that there is no pregnancy and for all patients that the liver is functioning normally.
• Family members and friends should watch Accutane patients for signs of depression and other psychological side effects. While these side effects rarely last beyond the final pill, they should be monitored during the Accutane regimen.
• Patients should not wax, have laser treatments or exfoliate heavily during their Accutane regimen. Because the drug dries out the skin, it is more susceptible to ripping or tearing, and waxing may leave permanent scarring. 

7.    Prepare to prevent future breakouts.

Accutane works very well for many people who use it correctly. Although it is risky, it is one of the most effective acne drugs on the market. Due to its risks, most patients should not take Accutane for longer than six months at a time.

Although this is plenty of treatment time for many patients, it may not be the final cure for everyone. Acne is not just a teenage problem, and it is important to maintain a facial cleansing regimen and to keep your dermatologist updated on the state of your skin.

If you have questions about whether Accutane is right for you, make an appointment with a dermatologist. Have general questions I didn’t address in this post? Leave them in the comments and I’ll answer them there.              

The Hair Loss Conundrum

Hair loss is a common problem. Often associated with genetics or disease, it occurs for a variety of reasons. Most people lose between 50 and 100 hairs per day. You may have noticed it in the shower or when brushing your hair. Although this type of regular hair loss is not cause for concern, there are some conditions that may require a visit to the dermatologist.

This blog will give you The Skinny on several common types of hair loss, including when to see a doctor.

Hereditary Hair Loss

Male or Female Pattern Baldness (Androgenetic Alopecia)

This is the most common form of hair loss, often starting with a receding hairline. Many men also see bald patches on the back or top of their heads.

In women, hereditary pattern baldness often results in an overall thinning of the hair. Some women see receding hairlines or bald patches, although this is rare.

There are a variety of treatments available, which include methods of preventing and reversing hereditary hair loss. These include:

• Corticosteroids – can be used to treat patchy hair loss
• Finasteride and Minoxidil – the only FDA-approved drug treatments for hair loss
• Hair transplants – minor surgery under local anesthetic performed by a dermatologist

Hormone-Related Hair Loss

Giving Birth

Many women experience noticeable hair loss after giving birth. This type of hair loss is temporary and related to changes in the body’s estrogen levels. Within a few months, the hair will grow back.

Menopause

It is also common for women to experience hair loss during menopause. This is also related to changing hormone levels. Although it is temporary, women ages 40 and older should not expect to have their hair grow back as fully as it previously was.

Stress

Traumatic events often have physical effects, and hair loss is often one of them. As with other hormone-related hair loss, this is temporary.

Disease-Related Hair Loss

Cancer treatments

Some cancer treatments, including radiation and chemotherapy, can cause hair loss. This is temporary, and the hair will grow back after treatment is finished.

Underlying medical condition

There are several diseases that cause hair loss. These include thyroid disease, anemia and others for which hair loss is a symptom of a larger problem. This type of hair loss can often be stopped or reversed by treating the disease.

Trichotollomania

This is a psychiatric condition in which a person feels compelled to pull out hair from his or her scalp or other parts of the body. There is no dermatological treatment for this, and sufferers should seek psychiatric help.

Disorder-Related Hair Loss

Alopecia areata

Believed to be an autoimmune disease, people with alopecia areata are often otherwise healthy. The disorder causes the body to attack its own hair, causing smooth, round patches of hair loss. Many people with this condition experience complete re-growth, although it can last a significant period of time. Dermatological treatment can help the hair grow back more quickly.

Cicatricial (scarring) alopecia

Like alopecia areata, cicatricial alopecia develops in otherwise healthy people. It is a rare disorder in which the body actually destroys hair follicles. Scar tissue grows in its place and the hair cannot grow back. Although treatment is available, it is only to stop inflammation from destroying the hair follicles.

If you have hair loss that may require a visit to the dermatologist, call our office today and we will be happy to schedule an appointment.

Have more questions about hair loss not answered here? Leave a comment and we’ll be glad to answer it. 

The Mohs Surgery Solution

              

This article on Mohs surgery by Dr. Patel appeared in the January 2013 issue of DeSoto Magazine. It addresses skin cancer and the most effective surgery available to treat it. If you have questions about the procedure, call Advanced Dermatology & Skin Cancer Associates at 901-759-2322 or leave a comment on this post. 

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States, with more than 3.5 million cases diagnosed and treated each year. On average, one in five Americans will develop some form of skin cancer in their lifetimes – despite the fact that many types of skin cancer are preventable!

Although not the most common, melanoma is the most dangerous form of skin cancer, accounting for fewer than 5 percent of skin cancer cases but the vast majority of deaths. The incidence of melanoma increased by 800 percent for women and 400 percent for men from 1970 to 2009. This makes it the only cancer of the seven most common with an increasing incidence.

Luckily, like other skin cancers, melanoma is treatable and preventable. About 86 percent of melanomas can be attributed to exposure to ultraviolet radiation, and a person’s risk for the cancer doubles after he or she suffers five sunburns at any age. The best way to avoid skin cancer and, specifically melanoma, is to wear sunscreen with at least 30 SPF every day – even in the winter! It’s also important to consider long sleeves, hats or other protective clothing.

If you are at risk or if you have developed melanoma or another skin cancer already, it can be treated quite effectively. Unlike other cancers, skin cancer does not often require multiple rounds of chemotherapy or radiation. In fact, it can often be removed if caught early through a simple outpatient procedure known as Mohs surgery.

Developed by Dr. Frederic Mohs, Mohs micrographic surgery is the most advanced and effective treatment procedure for skin cancer available today. The procedure is performed by specially trained surgeons. Mohs surgeons complete at least one additional year of fellowship training with a Mohs College member in addition to a three-year dermatology residency and a one-year medicine residency. With the Mohs technique, surgeons are able to see beyond the visible disease to precisely identify and remove entire tumors layer by layer, leaving surrounding healthy tissue intact and unharmed. As the most exact and precise method of tumor removal, it minimizes the chance of re-growth and lessens the potential for scarring or disfigurement.

Because Mohs surgeons are specially trained in surgery, pathology and reconstruction, Mohs surgery has the highest success rate of all treatments for skin cancer − up to 99 percent. The Mohs technique is also the treatment of choice for cancers of the face and other sensitive areas, as it relies on the accuracy of a microscopic surgical procedure to trace the edges of the cancer and ensure complete removal of all tumors down to the roots.

“The increase in skin cancers is alarming,” said Dr. Purvisha Patel, physician and owner of Advanced Dermatology & Skin Cancer Associates. “But our advances in treating these cancers are promising. Mohs surgery is constantly evolving and improving, and we are able to treat a variety of skin cancers very effectively.”

The Simple Science of Aging

Aging is one of life’s great mysteries. In elementary school, everyone learns about Ponce de Leon’s quest for the fountain of youth. Unfortunately, he never found it, but dermatology has come a long way in the hundreds of years since. This post will explain the aging process and how to slow down its physical manifestations. Have questions? Leave them in the comments, and I’ll answer them there.

Collagen and Elastin

Skin is the largest organ in the human body. For that reason, it manifests changes that occur on the outside and inside over time. Collagen and elastin are integral parts of the skin, as they provide its supportive structure and elasticity. As we age, collagen starts to break down and it becomes more difficult for our skin to build it back up. Elastin also starts to break down, giving the skin the inability to bounce back once stretched.

Fat…is important!

Aging skin begins to lose fat under the surface, which makes the skin much thinner and gives it a wrinkled appearance. That means that if you get a cut or an ulcer, your skin will take longer to heal than it did before. The skin can rip or bruise more easily than it did after minimal trauma. Sun damage and the release of free radicals (from smoking for example) accelerate this process.

Subcutaneous Tissue

OK, you probably aren’t very familiar with this term. Bear with me. The loss of subcutaneous tissue can also change the appearance of skin by altering skin structures such as pores, follicles and oil glands, making them look bigger or more prominent. These skin structures also become less efficient, meaning that we sweat less with time. Some people notice that their skin is more fragile – meaning that it's more sensitive to light, heat and extreme temperatures.

Combined Natural Effects

With all the combined effects of tissue loss and skin structure break down, the signs of photo-aging, such as sun freckles, moles and liver spots, become more noticeable. The incidence of skin cancer also significantly rises with age. This is especially true after the age of 50 or if you've had years of prolonged sun exposure or a genetic condition that predisposes you to skin cancer. Skin can also show signs of internal illness that become more pronounced over time. Regular skin exams are recommended, at least every year, to evaluate the skin and all of the changes that occur with age.

So how do you avoid or slow the process?

Check out the rest of our blog posts or leave a comment here. Here are a few quick tips:

• Wear sunscreen of at least 30 SPF every day to avoid damaging sun exposure.
• Moisturize! Even if you have oily skin, moisturizing helps your skin keep its elasticity longer, which prevents wrinkles and other signs of aging.
• Eat right. Check out this blog post on the best foods for skin health for a few tips.
• Choose your makeup wisely and, if it’s too late to prevent, cover up your signs of aging. This blog post will help you determine which products are right for you. 

The Spotty Child: Rashes and When to Worry

A red spot on your child’s skin could be any number of things. These rashes that occur during childhood are very common and usually can be cured with tender loving care and time. However, medical care may be necessary. Here’s the skinny of five of the most common childhood rashes. If you find anything concerning, making an appointment with a dermatologist is the best thing to do. 

Chickenpox (Varicella)

If you’ve had chickenpox, you probably remember your friends or siblings having it too. That is because it is one of the most contagious diseases. In the United States alone, about 3.9 million people a year contract chickenpox. It is easily spread when an infected person touches, sneezes, coughs or shares food or drink.

Symptoms 

The first symptoms often are fever, headache, sore throat and sometimes drowsiness or loss of appetite. After a couple of days, an itchy rash and red spots or blisters will appear all over the body, although some children get the chickenpox rash without having the early symptoms. The skin irritations go through four stages over a one- to two-day period: blistering, bursting, drying and crusting. This lasts about 10 days after the first symptoms start.

Treatment

Contact and/or visit your doctor when symptoms start. For regular cases, home treatment is all your child needs. This includes a lot of rest, taking medicine to reduce fever and itching and avoiding contact with others. A popular home remedy is to soak in an oatmeal bath to help fight the itching.

Risk

As with all infections, special care or medicine may be necessary for children and adults with long-term diseases or immune system problems.

Prevention

A vaccine is available for children ages 12 months and older and adults who have not had the chickenpox.

Hand-Foot-Mouth Disease

This is an infectious disease caused by the coxsackie virus. It occurs most often in children younger than 10 years old. It is a contagious disease that can be spread through saliva, fluid from blisters or the stool of an infected person.

Symptoms

As the name implies, it is characterized by blisters on the palms of the hands, soles of the feet and in the mouth. Additional symptoms include fever, sore throat and headache. The infection usually last about seven to 10 days.

Treatment 

There is no medical treatment for hand-foot-mouth disease. Pain relievers and saltwater mouth rinses can be used to ease pain.

Risk

Complications are VERY RARE, but can happen. Viral meningitis, inflammation of the brain, and fingernail and toenail loss have been connected to the disease.

Prevention

No vaccine is available. Just remind your child to take everyday precautions such as washing their hands and avoiding contact with a child that might be infected.

Roseola Infantum (Sixth Disease)

This is a common, but harmless, disease for children ages six months to 2 years old. As you may have guessed by the name, its main feature is a rosy-pink rash on the skin. It is caused by two common viruses that are spread by fluid from the nose or throat.

Symptoms

The first symptom is a high fever that can last anywhere from two to eight days. After the fever subsides, a non-itchy rash may appear. The rash most often presents on a child’s torso, neck or arms. Sore throat, stomachache, loss of appetite, vomiting and diarrhea may occur in rare cases.

Treatment

The rash will go away without any medical treatment. Pain relievers and sponge baths can be used to ease the pain.

Prevention

No vaccine is available. Just remind your child to take everyday precautions such as washing their hands and avoiding contact with a child that might be infected.

Contact Dermatitis

The most common form of dermatitis is an allergic reaction to contact with poison ivy, poison oak or sumac. These plants have sap oil called urushiol, which triggers the allergic reaction. Estimates show that about 75 percent of people in the United States have some degree of sensitivity to urushiol.

Symptoms

Mild skin redness or a rash of small red bumps will form on any skin that has been in contact with the sap oil. In severe cases swelling, redness and large blisters can occur. The rash usually lasts for five to 21 days.

Treatment

Washing with cold water immediately after contact can help reduce the rash. After about an hour, it won’t be as effective. DO NOT jump into a hot shower. This can cause the rash to spread. Most treatments are directed to help control the itching, such as Benadryl or cortisone creams. Calamine lotion, oatmeal baths and cool compresses also are common.

Prevention

Warn your children to avoid the poisonous plants! Easier said then done, right? Common phrases to help remember are “leaves of three, let it be” for poison ivy and “berries white, a poisonous sight” for poison oak and sumac.

Ringworm

Myth – ringworm is caused by contact with worms. It is a skin infection caused by fungus that lives off of dead skin, hair and nail tissue. It is very contagious and can be spread by contact with an infected person or animal or towels, clothing or sports gear. Ringworm grows best in warm, moist areas such as locker rooms and swimming pools.

Symptoms

A very itchy rash that usually is in a round shape, like a ring. If infected on the hand, the skin will get thick, dry and scaly.

Treatment

The most common treatment is using over-the-counter or prescription creams, depending on the severity of the infection. If untreated, the skin can become infected with bacteria and will need antibiotics.

Prevention

Avoiding an infected person, animal or item is the No. 1 prevention method. Other tips include having your child wear sandals in locker rooms and around public pools, showering after playing sports and changing their underwear and socks at least once a day.

If you notice an abnormal rash or marking on your child’s skin, or have any questions about skin irritations, call us at 901-759-2322. We will be glad to answer any questions or set up an appointment to assess your child’s situation.