Garner Dermatology - Top-Rated Dermatologists in Garland, TX

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7 Common Reasons for Hair Loss in Women

It is normal for women to lose about 100 hair strands every day.  If you are losing more hair than usual or notice bald spots, it is time to meet a dermatologist.
Contrary to popular belief, home remedies may not completely arrest hair fall. Hair fall may be due to various reasons. It takes a certified dermatologist to get to the root cause of hair fall and recommend an effective treatment plan.
Common Causes of Hair Loss in Women?
1)    Alopecia Areata
Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disease. In this condition, the immune system attacks the hair follicles and other healthy cells. People with alopecia areata experience hair loss in patches. Some women experience complete hair loss and hair loss throughout the body.
Corticosteroid injections and anti-inflammatory drugs are used to treat the disease. The medications work by suppressing the immune system.
2)    Nutritional Deficiencies
A diet that is low in protein, zinc, Vitamin B3, and iron can cause hair fall. To treat a nutritional deficiency, your doctor may recommend a blood test. After an accurate diagnosis of the issue, health supplements like Nutrafol Women would be recommended.
3)    Birth Control
Changing to a new brand of hormonal birth control pills can induce hair loss. Some women experience hair loss even months after they stop taking pills.
Contraceptive pills with a low androgen index may control hormone-induced hair loss. Other forms of contraception such as implants, and skin patches cause hair fall too.
4)    Genetics
Female pattern hair loss (FPHL) or Androgenetic alopecia is a common genetic condition that causes hair fall in women. Hair thins around the crown and on the sides. Hair follicles shrink, and the new hair is thinner and finer.
FPHL is more common in women over the age of 40 but can occur even during teenage. Dermatologists use more than one method of treatment to obtain optimal results.
 
5)    Postpartum Hair Loss
Most often, postpartum hair fall is normal. The dermatologist will perform the essential tests and suggest a breastfeeding-friendly treatment plan. Additional factors contributing to hair loss can be identified too through these tests.
One of the trusted recommendations from dermatologists is Nutrafol Postpartum. The product targets the major reasons behind thinning hair and fills the nutrition gap. Since it is made of natural ingredients, there are no major side effects to it.
6)    Lifestyle Habits
Common lifestyle practices can induce hair fall in women. Some of them are,
  • Wearing tight ponytails and braids can scar the hair follicles permanently (traction alopecia).
  •  Overuse of heat styling products (thermal damage) and overbleaching.
  •  Chemical procedures for straightening the hair strands can damage the follicles.
  • Over-washing of hair deprives the scalp of natural oils and makes it prone to damage.
  • Under-washing of hair leads to product build-up and hair fall.
 
7)    Stress
Hair fall is related to physical and emotional stress. High stress levels cause telogen effluvium. During this condition, the growth phase of the hair follicles slows down, and more hair follicles are moved into the resting phase.
The condition is temporary and reversible. Stress, when combined with sudden weight loss and poor diet, can aggravate telogen effluvium.
How to React to Excessive Hair Fall?
Do not panic! Hair fall can be controlled using different treatment options. It is best to talk to a dermatologist, go through a few tests to confirm the diagnosis, and proceed with the treatment.
If you want to learn more about hair loss and its various causes, talk to the hair loss specialists at West Dermatology. We curate customized treatment plans to help you deal with hair loss and improve your hair health.

How to Manage Oily Skin in the Summer

If you’ve noticed your skin has a little extra shine, then it’s likely that you have what’s classified as oily skin. While it’s true that everybody has oil in their skin (after all, it’s what helps keep it hydrated!), too much oil can cause breakouts and too much shine. If this sounds like you, then you’ll be happy to know that there are some dermatologist-approved tips for how you can help your oily skin, especially during the warmer weather of summer.
 
What Causes Oily Skin Anyway?
Under each pore of your skin is something called a sebaceous gland that produces sebum. Sebum helps keep your skin hydrated. However, if your sebaceous gland happens to produce a bit too much sebum, then that’s what leads to oily skin. You may be curious about why some people may produce more sebum than others. The causes for oily skin may be linked to:
 
·      Genetics
·      Your location
·      The season
·      Age
·      Enlarged pores
·      Using the wrong skincare products
 
Understanding why you may be producing more oil can help you correct the issue or find the appropriate treatment plan.
 
Warmer Weather Means More Oil
Summer is upon us, and while that usually means more time at the beach, it also means more oil on your skin. In the summer months, we all sweat more. This means that people who have oily skin tend to see even more shine, and people who don’t typically have oily skin may start to see signs of it. Therefore, it’s important to evaluate your skin so that you know what kind of skincare you should be doing to protect your skin.
 
Tips for Oily Skin During the Summer Months
As the temperature rises, it’s a good idea to make sure that your skin is ready for this season. Here are a few skincare tips to keep in mind if you have oily skin.
 
Deep cleanse: It’s important to go the extra mile when cleaning your face. Dermatologists suggest doing a deep cleanse, especially during the summer months, to help your skin properly hydrate and moisturize your skin. This helps reduce the appearance of oil and the likeliness of breakouts. We recommend SkinCeuticals Replenishing Cleanser Cream.
 
Wear sunscreen: You should always wear sunscreen, but it’s especially helpful for people with oily skin. Slathering on a healthy amount of sunscreen helps control oil and shine. Shop sunscreens here.
 
Skip the makeup: Help your pores out by going foundation-free this summer. Doing so could help keep your pores clear and less oil buildup on your face.
 
Remember to exfoliate: Exfoliating is an important part of your skincare routine, but especially so if your skin is oily. Exfoliating allows you to slough away dead skin and other buildups of product on your skin. We recommend SkinCeuticals Micro-Exfoliating Scrub.
 
Don’t forget to moisturize: It may feel counterproductive to moisturize oily skin, but it is absolutely necessary. You must keep your skin hydrated if you want to achieve balance. We recommend SkinMedica Ultra Sheer Moisturizer.
 
If you’re dealing with oily skin this summer, know that you’re not alone! There are plenty of people just like you who are definitely working through the struggle. The important thing to remember is to keep your skincare routine a priority, and remember to give your skin a break by protecting it from the sun and skipping makeup when you can.
 
This summer is sure to be the best one yet–let’s make sure your skin is ready for it! And as always, if you have questions, don’t hesitate to contact us or schedule an appointment.

The Key Factors that Cause Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a multifactorial, auto-immune disease. The exact reasons behind psoriasis are still unclear.
The condition has a strong genetic background. Research suggests that an interaction between genetics and the immune system is one of the primary reasons behind the condition. Some common triggers can worsen the symptoms of psoriasis. The impact of these triggers varies from one person to another. 

The Link Between Psoriasis and Genetics

Having a family member with psoriasis enhances your level of risk for the condition. However, people with no family history of psoriasis can still be diagnosed with the disorder. Research conducted on psoriatic skin shows the presence of gene mutations (called alleles). 
However, the presence of alleles alone cannot cause a person to develop the condition. Genetic studies have identified 25 gene variants that can increase the risk of psoriasis. The studies indicate a person’s risk level in developing psoriasis. 
  • If one parent has psoriasis, then there is a 10% chance for the child to have the condition. 
  • If both parents have psoriasis, the risk is over 50%. 
  • If you have a relative with psoriasis, then the chances of being diagnosed with the condition are over 30%. 
The specific method through which psoriasis passes from the parent to the child is not entirely understood. 
The Interplay between Genetics and the Immune System
When the immune system encounters a foreign body such as a virus or bacteria, the T cells respond. The body builds proteins that are involved in the identification of molecules called antigens. 
When a person has psoriasis, the gene mutations cause the T cells to identify their skin cells as foreign and attack them incorrectly. The body makes new cells more often than required. The additional skin cells pile up on the surface of the skin and thus cause psoriasis. 

Other Contributing Factors of Psoriasis

The National Psoriasis Foundation (NPF) has revealed that at least 10% of people inherit genes that can cause psoriasis. But only 3% of people develop the condition. When external triggers combine with genetics, the chance of developing psoriasis is high. Some of the external factors are, 
Stress
The connection between stress and psoriasis is like a loop. Psoriasis causes stress. Stress causes inflammation and increased activation of the immune cells. This results in a psoriasis flare-up. 
Skin Injury
Bruises, bumps, and other forms of injuries can irritate your skin and set off the immune system. As a result, the injured portion of the skin becomes the site of a psoriasis flare-up. 
Weather
The National Psoriasis Foundation suggests that cold and dry weather can trigger psoriasis. Some studies support the intake of Vitamin D supplements to regulate the immune system during winters. 
Drugs
Certain drugs like antimalarials, aspirin, beta-blockers can aggravate psoriasis.
Gut Health
When the bacterial ecosystem in your gut is dysregulated,”leakiness”in the gut can be observed. This triggers inflammation through the entire body and causes the development of psoriasis. 
Infections
Infections such as COVID 19 can trigger psoriasis through systemic inflammation. The most common infectious trigger of psoriasis is strep throat. 
Lifestyle Habits
Smoking is said to flare up psoriasis by over 60%. The nicotinic receptors in the T cells of the immune system regulate cell activity. The nicotine present in cigarettes can interfere with the functions of the receptors. 

Get Help with Treating Psoriasis 

Appropriate treatment measures can control the symptoms of psoriasis.
At West Dermatology, we are profoundly aware of the physical and psychological impact of psoriasis. We offer customized treatment plans to relieve patients from their discomfort and to get clearer skin. Contact us today if you notice any signs of the condition. 

How To Get Rid of Melasma Spots for Good

It’s so frustrating to stare into the mirror at a dark spot on our face and feel helpless to do anything about it. We try to cover it up, but no amount of make-up can force the dark spot on our face and self-esteem to disappear for good. What we need is a dermatologist-approved solution strong enough to fade the blemish so we’re not forced to live with it. We can help with that!
What Exactly is Melasma?
Melasma is a common skin condition. Areas of concentrated pigmentation leave dark spots on the face. Although women get it the most, it also affects men. It often begins during middle-age and has many causes. 
Blame The Sun 
Radiation from the sun damages skin and makes it overproduce pigmentation in select areas on the face, especially the cheeks and forehead. These spots are typically darkest during the summer. They fade as sun exposure decreases in the winter, although they never completely vanish without treatment. 
Hormones Play a Role, Too
Hormones are responsible for some types of melasma, especially in expectant mothers who can develop”pregnancy mask.”These blotchy patches of color are usually symmetrical and most commonly found on the cheeks. In addition to childbirth, melasma can also be caused by hormonal birth control and hormone replacement therapy.
Melasma Is Not Dangerous
We don’t need to worry about melasma developing into cancer. Fortunately, this skin condition needs medical attention for aesthetic reasons only. It requires medical-grade products that can fade the pigmented areas, so they blend in better with our natural skin and give us a more even complexion. 
There’s Hope For Dark Spots
Melasma fades under the guidance of West Dermatology’s board-certified doctors. They can prescribe the top-of-the line skincare products and high-tech lasers we need for blemish-free skin.
Skin Care Products That Lighten Melasma
A real improvement from melasma symptoms comes from using medical-grade products. Our shop carries West Dermatology Skin Tone Enhancement Therapy Pads, Skinceuticals Discoloration Defence, and SkinMedica Lytera 2.0 Pigment Correcting Serum. It’s important to get a dermatologist’s professional opinion on which of these products is most effective for our skin condition. 
It’s a Stubborn Skin Condition
Skincare products are the first recommended treatment for melasma. This skin condition is known to be stubborn and often takes several rounds of treatment before patients see the dramatic results they hope for. It’s important to stay motivated and committed to the treatment plan your dermatologist prescribes. 
Dermatology Procedures Also Fade Dark Spots
Our skin experts at West Dermatology offer procedures to lighten melasma spots. These include chemical peels, microdermabrasion, dermabrasion, light-based procedures and lasers. 
Melasma Is High-Maintenance
Once your skin spots lighten, you’ll need to keep up with the skincare or procedure regimen your dermatologist recommended. There is, unfortunately, no cure for melasma. This may sound disappointing, but the good news is that this skin condition can be improved and kept in check with regular maintenance. 
The best thing you can do for your melasma is to schedule an appointment with one of our friendly dermatologists. They’ll take a look at your skin and recommend the best melasma-fading products our shop has to offer, and fill you in on the latest in-office procedures for even-looking skin.

Your Guide to Melasma

Melasma is a skin condition that causes brown patches to appear on people’s faces. While it’s not a serious medical issue, it can certainly be a cosmetic issue that many people would like to treat. Here we will discuss what causes melasma and the possible treatment options.
Causes of Melasma
Unfortunately, there is no single cause for melasma, but rather it is a combination of things that occur at one time. Typically, melasma appears after excessive sun exposure, changes in hormones, and a person’s genetics. It’s not unusual for melasma to appear after a woman starts taking birth control or at some point throughout her pregnancy because there are significant hormone shifts that occur. For these reasons, melasma is also known as a”pregnancy mask.”Sometimes it simply occurs after ongoing sun exposure or if there is a family history of the skin condition. 
 
Treatment Options
It’s important to understand that melasma doesn’t fade completely, but it can be lightened in some cases that it is virtually non-existent. There are some ways that you can reduce the appearance of it and keep the condition more contained. Here are some treatment options to keep in mind:
Limit Sun Exposure
 
Help stop the spread of melasma by protecting your skin from the sun. You should always wear high SPF sunblock, proper clothing, and a hat when outdoors. Not only can sun exposure lead to melasma, but it can also aggravate an existing condition of it. 
Retinol-Based Creams
Retinol works to increase your skin’s cell turnover. As the pigmented skin exfoliates after the use of retinol, the faster the dark areas begin to fade. Be mindful of using this type of product, as it can be harsh for some people’s skin types. Talk to your dermatologist about the type of creams you should use. 
 
Pigment Blockers
 
Pigment blockers are used to lighten the skin and can be used in conjunction with your sunscreen. Talk to your dermatologist about the pigment blockers that work best for you. 
 
Laser Treatments
 
There are a variety of lasers that can be used to break up the pigmentation of melasma. The severity of your melasma will determine if this is the right treatment option for you
Other Considerations about Melasma
 
It’s important to know that melasma won’t completely go away on its own, but treatments can help. While this condition is sometimes referred to as a”pregnancy mask,”it doesn’t only impact women. Men can also be affected by melasma, especially if they have a family history or have excessive sun exposure. People at higher risk are women and individuals with darker skin pigmentation. 
 
Discuss Your Options
 
At West Dermatology, we are committed to providing our patients with the information they need to make treatment decisions. While melasma may be something you’ll have to manage throughout your entire life, there are effective ways to lighten your skin and protect it from future damage. To learn more about melasma and the treatment options we provide, contact our office today. We are here to provide the guidance you need to achieve healthier skin. 

A West Dermatologist Dishes Her Pregnancy Skincare Tips

Pregnancy can wreak havoc on your skin with hormonal acne, dryness, and hyperpigmentation. Plus, pregnancy skincare has its own set of rules like no retinol and retinoids. We talked to our very own board-certified Dermatologist Dr. Jessica Riley to sort out what is and isn’t allowed during pregnancy. She also let us in on how she expertly cared for her own skin before, during, and after pregnancy. 
 
What did you change about your routine once you found out you were pregnant, and why?
Dr. Riley said removing retinol was the number one change she made to her skincare routine. Retinols are known to harm a growing baby. She erred on the side of caution with all other skincare products. “We have to be so careful in pregnancy because most skincare products are not studied in pregnant women, so it’s hard to know what is safe to use,” Dr. Riley said.
 
What did your skincare routine look like before pregnancy?
AM routine: 
·      Skinceuticals gentle cleanser – is great for sensitive skin
·      Skinceuticals C E Ferulic – is a powerful antioxidant to combat aging and protect the skin from sun damage
·      Skinmedica Lytera 2.0 – helps with pigmentation and evening out skin tone
·      Isdin Ageless tinted sunscreen – is lightweight, easy to apply, and blends evenly with most skin tones
 
PM routine:
·      Retinol three times weekly, alternated with Skinceuticals Glycolic 10 – it gives skin a nice glow
·      Isdin’s Melatonik – is a serum that acts like a retinoid but doesn’t cause dryness or irritation
·      Skinmedica Lytera 2.0
 
What was your complete skincare routine while you were pregnant?
AM routine: 
·      C E Ferulic
 
PM routine: 
 
What about pregnancy acne?
Pregnant women may experience hormonal acne because androgen levels are higher than usual. Glycolic acid and benzoyl peroxide washes are safe to use in pregnancy. 
 “Once I found out I was pregnant, I switched to using the Skinceuticals glycolic acid wash,” she said. This wash helps with keeping pigmentation under control and fights acne, too. Dr. Riley said topical prescription options are available, so consult with your dermatologist if over-the-counter glycolic acid or benzoyl peroxide wash is not working.
 
What about sunscreen?
Sunscreen is a must because too much sun exposure can contribute to pregnancy mask, also called melasma. You can manage these brown and tan patches of hyperpigmentation by wearing zinc oxide sunscreen. Dr. Riley said she was especially careful not to use chemical sunscreen while she was pregnant.
 “There was a study that came out a few years ago showing that chemical sunscreens can be absorbed systemically, even though the absorption is minimal,” she said. Dr. Riley stuck with Isdin Ageless sunscreen because it’s pure zinc oxide, without any chemicals.
 
Anything else you would like to include? 
“I went full-force after pregnancy to get my skin back into shape by using a prescription lightening cream called hydroquinone and retinol, in addition to the products I mentioned above,” she said. Dr. Riley said adding on the SkinMedica instant bright eye cream was helpful to mask the effects of sleepless nights after her baby was born. 
 
Partner with a dermatologist if you’re pregnant
Pregnancy can wreak havoc on your skin, but partnering with a dermatologist to help you through pregnancy and afterward can be helpful. If you have acne or rosacea during pregnancy, please make sure to talk to one of our board-certified dermatologists about treatments that you can use safely in pregnancy. Reach out for an appointment or if you have any questions for us.

How to Keep Your Skin Sun Safe this Summer ☀️

This beautiful, warm weather has everybody outside enjoying their favorite activity. There’s so much fun to be had, but we want to remind you that your skin can easily get damaged this time of year. Whether you’re going for a dip in a pool, hiking, or just outside soaking up the sun, it’s important to make sure that your skin health remains a top priority. The great thing about it is that all of these tips are easy enough to implement in any summer activity. 
 
Sun Safe Skincare Tips
 
Seek shade: When possible, sit in the shade as much as you can. Some activities such as swimming or hiking will require you to take regular breaks to get out of the direct sunlight. Be extra careful to avoid direct sunlight during the peak hours of 10 AM-4 PM. 
 
Cover your skin: It’s important to wear proper clothing when you’re outside. This means investing in lightweight clothing (avoiding dark colors if possible), clothing with UV protection, hats, and sunglasses.
 
Consider advice from Dr. Mitchel Goldman, MD and West Dermatology Medical Director. He says, “Whenever I know I will be enjoying the outdoors, on a bicycle or hiking, I always wear SPF clothing with full arm covers, wear Isdin Erythrophotona sunscreen on exposed areas and take a Sunisdin supplement.”
 
Wear sunscreen: Everybody should wear sunscreen, even on overcast days. Don’t forget to reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating. It’s a good idea to make sunscreen application part of your daily routine. 
 
Dr. Jessica Riley, DO, adds, “I apply EltaMD UV Clear sunscreen in the morning. It goes on very elegantly and also has niacinamide in it, which helps to calm acne-prone skin. I also make sure to reapply every two hours if I’m going to be in the sun. The easiest way to do this is with the Isdin Mineral Brush. It goes on effortlessly and easily over my makeup.
 
Avoid tanning beds: It may be tempting to get a golden tan from a tanning bed, but know that this is not safe for your skin. Not only can it cause skin damage, but it could also lead to skin cancer. Protect your skin by avoiding tanning beds or overexposure from direct sunlight. 
 
Wash your face: More sunlight usually means more sweating. Make sure you keep your face clean so that there isn’t a buildup of oil or dirt. 
 
Continue skin checks: Don’t forget to continue regular skin checks. Take care to make a note of any skin changes and report those changes to your doctor right away. 
 
Take care of your skin throughout the summer months. Don’t forget to apply sunscreen, wear proper clothing, and keep out of the direct sunlight whenever possible. For your skincare needs, schedule an appointment with us! We look forward to educating you about skincare to keep you healthy all year long! 

Get Your Skin Road Trip Ready with Our Tips 🚙

Summertime road trips are in full swing, and there’s nothing quite as liberating as the feeling of hitting the open road. But the cool wind blowing on your skin and the warm sun on your face needs to be balanced with extra protection and hydration. So follow these tips to get your skin ready for a road trip and keep it glowing for those selfies along the way.  
 
Maintain Your Skincare Routine
Keep your skincare routine consistent on your road trip. Stick to your familiar products. Now is not the time to buy something different just because it comes in a cute travel size. Instead, ensure you don’t get an unexpected reaction and keep your skin break-out-free by packing what you’re already using. 
 
Get Creative With Containers
If space is limited and you don’t want to haul full-size products, buy tiny travel-sized bottles and transfer your product into them. You can even get creative and make your travel-size containers from everyday household objects. For example, ziplock bags are a great way to store makeup remover wipes. Likewise, a clean contact lens holder can double as a moisturizer container. 
 
Remember The Essentials
Don’t Pack Retinol 
Retinols can make your skin extra sensitive to sun damage. Riding in a sunny car for hours means more sun exposure than usual, so keep it off your packing list. Also, remember to pause retinol use before your road trip to avoid redness and irritation.
 
Prepare for Emergencies
Despite the best-laid plans, sometimes things go awry on road trips. Bees sting. Bugs bite. Feet blister. So remember to pack emergency products that can bring you some relief in case the worst happens. Products to relieve insect bites and antibacterial ointments are rarely needed. But, when they are, it’s a relief to have them on hand. The same goes for sunburns. We all expect to protect our skin, but sometimes we miss a spot or forget to reapply sunscreen, and well, burns happen. Pack sunburn care just in case you need it.
 
Water, Water Everywhere
Drinking a lot of water is one of the best things you can do to hydrate your skin from the inside out. Water keeps your skin, body, and mind functioning at their best. So stick with water to keep your mind alert on the road and your skin hydrated. Also, you’ll want to rethink caffeine which can dehydrate you and can make you feel tired.
 
Reapply Sunscreen
You’re still exposed to UV rays inside a car, so you need to protect the skin on your face and body. And don’t forget those bare toes propped up on the dashboard they need sunscreen, too. Be sure to apply sunscreen before your road trip starts. You can set the alarm on your phone to remember to reapply it throughout the drive.
 
Go Beyond Sunscreen
Wear a hat and sunglasses to prevent eye strain and squinting and the fine lines it can cause around the eye area while you drive. Improve the sun protection on your arms by slipping on a loose long-sleeve shirt in a thin, breathable fabric like cotton or linen. 
 
After The Trip
Continue your skincare routine when your road trip is over and you’re back home. Go ahead and enjoy some of those products you didn’t have space for in your luggage. Dive into exfoliating or soothe your skin with a hydrating mask. And as always, if you have any questions about any of these tips or want more personalized advice, Reach out for an appointment!

The Difference Between Male & Female Acne

When most people think about acne, they often first associate it with puberty but this is not always the case. Many adults are still affected by acne well beyond the teenage years (about 50 million Americans), and the experience is different for both men and women from various factors. 
MALE ACNE
For men with acne, hormone levels are usually the main trigger. Men produce more of the hormone testosterone than women, which results in thick and oily skin. The production of sebum, or oil, is also higher in males because their sebaceous glands are more active (from the testosterone), which can lead to clogged pores, causing breakouts. Lastly, while those beards may look cool, facial hair can trap oil and act as a breeding ground for the bacteria that exacerbates pimples and acne.
In addition to the face and neck, men are more susceptible to acne on the chest, back, upper arms, and shoulders. Sweating may increase the severity, especially during the warmer months and after exercising, especially from wearing nylon fabrics.
Finally, the addition of supplements to enhance muscle growth may also promote and enhance underlying acne.
FEMALE ACNE
According to The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 22% of adult women are affected by acne, compared to less than 5% of adult men. Like men, female acne is the result of too much oil being produced by the skin, which results in clogged pores = breakouts. This may be attributed to estrogen and progesterone hormone fluctuations, especially just before the menstrual cycle..
Unlike men, women’s hormone levels become disrupted when birth control pills are taken, during the menstrual cycle, and menopause. The fluctuations can cause increased oil production in the pore.”14 – 50 year old women can get a deeper type of acne around the face and neck, that mostly spares the nose, chest and back”said Dr. Brook Brouha, West Derm board-certified dermatologist.”The unique hormonal influences make it a different disease entirely and you need to have the right game plan in order to treat it,”said Brouha. 
So what do you do when you want to slow down and prevent these breakouts from happening?
How to Treat:
Face acne: keep that face oil at bay by making sure to wash your face twice a day with an acne face wash, preferably one with salicylic or glycolic acid. Your skin needs to stay hydrated, not dry, in order to stay in balance and prevent breakouts so follow with a moisturizer that works best with your skin type.
For men, be careful when you shave around acne blemishes and make sure not to shave off the tops of pimples because this can irritate the skin and make it worse.
Back (bacne) / Body acne: nobody wants an army of angry pimples on their back or body. Make sure you are showering daily with an antibacterial soap and exfoliating to slough off all dead skin cells and unclog pores. You can also use over-the-counter spot treatments that have salicylic acid in them for those extra pesky zits. 
Female Acne:“Classic acne regimes are more effective for adolescent style chest, back and face acne and tend to be largely ineffective for this unique acne,”said Brouha.”At times, we recommend an oral treatment with isotretinoin, especially if your acne is severe.”
The most advanced treatment for acne is photodynamic therapy. This procedure is presently being investigated in a clinical study and is utilized in some of our clinics.
Acne affects us all at some point during our lifetimes. The level of severity is different amongst every person but just know we are always here to help! If you are not seeing results with any of the above treatment options or have any questions about your acne, schedule an in-clinic or TeleDerm appointment with one of our West Dermatology dermatologists today!

Summer is Here! Time to Transition your Skincare Routine 😎

Summer is finally here and with it the smell of freshly cut grass, backyard barbecues, and sunscreen lotion. We’ve transitioned into a new season with its own skincare rules. They revolve around the sun and, protecting us from its UV rays. Summer puts extra stress on our skin, and using sunscreen with a high SPF is essential. 
 
Here are our favorite tips for getting you summer skincare ready.
 
Slip, Slap, Slop, and Wrap!
According to the American Cancer Society, we’re most protected from the sun’s harmful rays when we layer several types of protection. So, slip on a shirt, slap on a hat, slop on sunscreen and wrap on sunglasses. These all work together to supplement the protection we get from sunscreen, which is often not enough on its own.  
 
Remember The Two-Hour Rule
We all need to be extra careful about reapplying sunscreen every two hours. Clearly, if you’re spending most of the day indoors, this isn’t necessary. But for those days where you’ll be outside all day, reapply sunscreen every two hours and even more frequently if you’re doing a lot of sweating or swimming.
 
Lips need protection, too, so look for balms with SPF. This may seem extreme, but surprisingly, most cancers on the face occur on the lips. This sensitive skin is susceptible to sun damage, just like the rest of our faces.
 
Hydrate
The summer heat can zap the water our body needs for plump, youthful-looking skin. Remember to drink at least eight glasses of liquid each day (soda and other sugary drinks don’t count). You might need more than eight cups of water, especially if you’re spending time outdoors. You can also hydrate with sweet fruits like oranges and melons that are dripping with skin-quenching water. The same goes for many vegetables, including cucumbers. They have an amazing water content of 90%.
 
Switch to a Serum
The heavy moisturizers of winter gave way to the oil-free moisturizers of spring. And now that summer’s here, a silky serum might be all the hydration your skin needs. This gem from SkinCeuticals, the C E Ferulic Vitamin C serum, undos new damage from lazy days in the sun. A serum helps not just moisturize but also nourish your sun-exposed skin.
 
Retinoid Can Take a Summer Break
Summer’s the time to relax your retinoid use because it can make your skin extra sensitive to the sun. This also applies to alpha and beta hydroxy acids. If you still want to use these products, limit your sun exposure, use less than usual, or switch to every other day or less. You can ramp up your usage again during the shady days of fall and winter. 
 
Prepare for Events
Now’s the time to renew our friendships and our Botox and lip filler injections, too. We all want to glow during the summer weddings, galas, soirees, and other big events of the season. Botox injections are a quick, effective way to relax away crow’s feet and worry lines and reveal a more youthful, refreshed look for summer. Fillers can accentuate our precious pouts, which many of us are excited to show off this summer. Ready to book your Botox or filler appointment? Click here.
 
Whether you’re out and about enjoying the summer weather, or inside taking a much needed break and relaxation, don’t let your skincare fall by the wayside. If you have any questions, schedule your appointment now. We are here to help!