Latest News - Page 2 of 2 - Dr. Mahvish Aftab Khan

04/Jan/2023

Acne is a medical condition that requires getting it checked before it worsens. It is always recommended to see a doctor if the acne starts popping out on the face. This is to be done immediately and essentially to control the condition and eliminate the underlining cause.

Acne is a skin condition that occurs to almost everyone at some point in life but it is more commonly seen during puberty; among teenagers and young adults.

It is a medical condition in which skin gets spots, pimples, oily skin, whiteheads, and blackheads with open pores, which are sometimes hot and painful to touch. In severe cases, inflamed patches are seen (cysts) which are painful.

What are the common terms used for acne?

It is commonly known as Acne vulgaris, cystic acne, Zits, or pimples.

Which are the areas prone to acne?

The areas having more sebaceous glands also termed oily glands are more prone to get acne This includes:

Face- this affects everyone with acne
Chest affects half of the population’s
upper back and shoulders. 10-15% of the population is affected.

When to see a dermatologist for acne?

Generally, the mild type of acne is usually treated through home remedies by people and it often does not require visiting the doctor. Most of the time it is managed by over-the-counter medicine. If the symptoms are not resolved by ten weeks so it is advised to see the doctor.

For moderate to severe acne, it is advised to see a dermatologist in Islamabad because OTC drugs are not effective for such acne and lead to scarring.

How can a dermatologist help?

A dermatologist in Islamabad helps in treating acne through various antibiotic therapies prescribed both for oral and topical use. they can also help reduce acne scars and advise the patient to help prevent scarring.

The treatment of acne depends upon its severity, Starting from a very basic regimen of low-dose antibiotics to the high dose retinoids, sometimes steroid injections are prescribed for severe cystic acne.

How do the drugs help in treating acne?

There are various acne medications that help through the following mechanisms :

Retard Bacterial growth.
Prevent excess production of the oil through sebaceous glands.
Constrict the open pores on the skin to prevent bacterial growth.

Is It worth seeing a dermatologist for acne?

Yes, it is always helpful to see a dermatologist for acne as the condition can be managed before getting worse.

What is the underlining cause of acne?

The underlining cause of acne is commonly linked to hormonal changes, most commonly seen at puberty. But, may affect any age.
Certain hormones produce excess sebum(oil) in the glands next to hair follicles which coagulate the pores of the skin and leads to the aggressive behavior of the normal skin bacteria P.acne as its harmless activity retards leading to the production of the puss cells and ultimately cyst.
Secondly, hormones also thicken the inner layer of the hair forming the pores whichlicle, blocki cause pimple-like growth on the skin.

What are some other causes of acne?

There may be several other causes for acne few of them are listed below:

Inheritance, if the condition is running in the family.
Hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle
Changes during pregnancy produce episodes of acne in women.

Is acne a medical condition?

Yes, Acne is a medical condition presenting signs and symptoms in a patient but this is treated cosmetically.

What are acne scars?

Scars are the marks developed after severe acne on the face chest and upper back region, about 80% of people get acne between the age of 11-30, and among them, 17% of people get acne scars.

How are acne scars formed?

These are formed after severe acne. as the formation of cyst or papules affects the inner layer of the dermis the pores are inflamed, swell, and gets damaged leading to the formation of scars. A few of them are shallow so they heal quickly the rest which is deep take time to heal or do not heal mostly.

What is the treatment for Acne scars?

Mild scarring can be treated by the gels and creams which are supposed to be applied topically.

Moderate to severe scarring requires professional cosmological procedures. With which the results are rapid and better.

What are the procedures for treating acne scars?

Some of the noninvasive procedures for treating acne scars are listed as follows:

Micro-needling
Co2 laser
Chemical peels
Fillers
PDO thread
Fillers
Fractional lasers e.t.c

Will the current acne breakout interfere with the acne scar treatment?

Yes, one’s skin needs to be infection free before acne scar treatment otherwise the treatment procedures will not be effective rather there may be chances that the infection may worsen.

Can scars be treated at home?

Yes, mild scars can be treated at home by OTC medications, but it is always important to get a piece of advice from a dermatologist before using any type of medication.

Name OTC medications that can be used at home for treating acne scars.

Some of the OTC medications used to treat acne scars are as follows:

Salicylic acid
Lactic acid
Alpha hydroxyl acid
Retinoids.

Mild scars can also be covered up by makeup products. There are many makeup products that are suitable for hiding acne scars.

Are invasive surgeries used to treat the scars?

Sometimes minor surgeries are done to lift the skin tissues at the normal skin level to heal up and remove the scar. This is performed when the patient is awake, only numbing of the targeted area is done to keep the procedure painless.

IS treatment of scars done on the area other than the face?

The treatment of the acne scar depends upon the location of the scar. If the scar is not noticeable doctors may not consider treating the area.

Is the treatment of the scars worth it?

Yes, the treatment is successful. through cosmetological procedures, the scars are improved and the skin looks as smooth as before. Severe scars may take a couple of months to heal.

Is scar treatment safe?

Yes, scar treatment is safe as these procedures are approved by the health authority of Pakistan.

Conclusion:

Acne is a medical condition that affects almost everyone starting from teenagers to young adults. It is always recommended to see a dermatologist whenever the acne is unmanageable, to prevent acne scars and other complex conditions linked with this medical condition.

Admin

24/Mar/2022

Non-Surgical Face Lift

It is a combination of non-invasive skin rejuvenation treatments. Its main purpose is to refresh damaged skin. This involves a handful of cosmetic procedures, it helps to smooth your fine lines and wrinkles. Furthermore, it removes any damage to surface skin and boosts the production of new collagen that provides a lifting effect. Non-Surgical Face Lift Treatment in Islamabad and Rawalpindi.

A non-surgical allows you to avoid any invasive procedure such as surgical facelift, anesthesia, and scarring of plastic surgery. It provides you with anti-aging benefits.

Pros & Cons

Non-Surgical Face Lift Treatment in Islamabad and Rawalpindi has the following Pros and Cons:

Pros

Non-surgical facelift has minimal downtime. However, this treatment leaves you swollen or bruised for a few days. In last it has the least downtime compared to other facelift surgery.
The anesthesia used for Non-Surgical Face Lift treatment in Islamabad and Rawalpindi would be a numbing cream
This treatment has less invasive than surgery. So, it has minimum potential health risks.

Cons

The degree of facelift you get from non-surgical treatment is not what you expect from a surgical facelift.
You need to attend more treatment sessions for optimal results.
Non-surgical treatment requires maintenance treatment as often as three to four times a year.

Expectation

After injectables, you may feel bruises for at least a few hours. Bruising is a common side effect and it depends on its severity and how long this will last.

A non-surgical skin tightening treatment has no real downtime. It is because this treatment target only the deeper layer of the skin. However, after the treatment, you may feel sore from the rubbing of the heated devices against your skin.

1. Botox

Botox in Islamabad. It is the most commonly used non-surgical treatment. A Botox is a neuromodulator that is injected into the muscle, as a result, this causes temporary relaxation. As relaxed muscles no longer being able to contract So, therefore, cannot create wrinkles.

Botox injections are capable of treating fine lines and wrinkles. These fine lines and wrinkles usually appear near the forehead, eyebrows, and around the eyes. Results from Botox require more than a single dose. Ongoing treatments stop wrinkles from returning. However, for deeper wrinkles, it may take several treatments to get the desired results.

2. Dermal Fillers

Loss of facial volume is the major cause of falling cheeks. It creates the illusion of sagging skin. However, we can restore the volume without surgery in a short period of time. As a result, you will feel like you had a facelift. These procedures are known as Dermal Fillers.

Dermal Fillers in Islamabad. Following are the variety of dermal injections that can be used:

Hyaluronic Acid-Based Fillers
Collagen-Based Fillers
Semi-permanent fillers
Permanent Fillers

3. Thread Lift

Thread Lift in Islamabad. This is a minimally invasive cosmetic treatment. This procedure involves temporary sutures to lift your skin and add definition to your facial contours. However, this treatment does not remove any loose facial skin, it only stitched up certain skin to keep it skin taut. Thread Lift creates an effect by pulling your skin back and lifting. As a result, it tightens your face.

A thread lift technician uses a PDO. PDO stands for Polydioxanone. In thread lift PDO is used for self-dissolving sutures, these sutures dissolve in your body in a couple of months. Therefore, its effect depends on the area the face is being treated. However, the provider has a choice of using smooth threads or barbed threads depending on the lift that is required.

Collagen helps support “growth factors” that greatly influence the condition of our skin. In addition to being used for wound healing, collagen helps to keep our skin strong, voluminous, and supple. As we get older, our bodies gradually produce less and less collagen, which leads to an 80% reduction in skin thickness by about age 70. As the skin grows weaker, it’s no longer supports the tissues beneath it adequately, meaning that gravity pulls it downwards and stretches it. By infusing the skin of the face with fresh collagen when the signs of skin laxity are still mild can help to both reduce looseness (by thickening and hydrating the skin) and prevent your skin from getting worse (by strengthening the skin).

Working

Thread lift has different types and each type is capable of accomplishing different goals. Thread lifts are made from absorbable suture material. This material slowly dissolves under the surface of the skin. As a result, this will form new collagen. Thread lifts often have cones or barbs to grip tissue during placement and provide to temporary lifting effect.

Admin

22/Mar/2022

Melasma:

Melasma is actually a skin condition. It is characterized by brown, blue-gray, or freckle-like spots. Its second name is Mask of Pregnancy. It is caused by the overproduction of the cells that may change your skin color. However, it is common, harmless and some treatments may be able to solve this problem. Melasma fades naturally after a few months.

Symptoms:

Melasma is a skin condition that means is a black spot. A person who is suffering from melasma might experience light brown, dark brown, or blue-gray patches on her skin. Likewise, they are similar to flat patches or freckle-like spots. It usually appears on the patient face, cheeks or upper lip, and forehead.

Melasma treatment in Islamabad. Melasma is often called the “Mask of Pregnancy”. It is known by this name because it frequently affects pregnant women. On the contrary, it darkens and lightens over time. Its peak time is in the summer and becomes better during winter.

Types of Melasma:

Typically, Melasma has three types. A Wood lamp is used to emit light that has black color. Hence, it is used to determine the depth of the pigmentation. The three types of Melasma are as follow:

Epidermal:

Epidermal melasma has a well-defined border and dark brown in color. It is only prominent in black light. However, it sometimes responds well to treatment.

Dermal:

This type of melasma has a light brown and bluish color. It has a blurry border compared to Epidermal melasma. However, it does not respond well to treatment and it is not prominent in black light.

Mixed Melasma:

This type of Melasma is the most common among all three. It has the color of bluish and brown patches. However, it shows a good response to treatment and displays mixed patterns under backlights.

What Causes Melasma:

What are Melasma causes? Radiation (Ultraviolet, visible, or infrared light) and Hormones are the main causes of melasma. Furthermore, melasma becomes worst when a person receives ultraviolet and infrared light from the sun. Following are the possible causes of melasma:

Anti-seizure Medications:

Some patient uses drugs that prevent them from having seizures. Sometimes, these drugs may cause melasma. In addition, Clobazam is a typical example of anti-seizure.

Contraceptive Pills:

Typically, contraceptive pills contain estrogen and progesterone. Further, each individual is diagnosed with melasma who uses oral contraceptive pills.

Pregnancy:

It is inevitable to know why pregnant women get melasma. However, some experts might suggest that it happens due to an increase in the level of estrogen during the third semester of pregnancy.

Risks of Melasma:

Melasma is not very effective on those people having white skin. However, its effect increases on that person which has a darker complexion. Melasma is most common in women compared to men. Moreover, only 10% of men are affected by melasma however, 90% of women who are pregnant get melasma.

Melasma Treatment:

Usually, melasma goes away naturally. Melasma may be triggered due to pregnancy or medication. it fades away on its own after delivering your baby. Best Dermatologist in Islamabad.

However, Melasma may last for years or even a lifetime. While it cannot harm your body.

Your dermatologist may prescribe a medication that decreases the excess pigmentation in your skin. An experienced dermatologist may prescribe for one or more of the following:

Hydroquinone:

This type of treatment is for melasma. it is even effective on darker skin tones. It is not a product that you can buy without a prescription from a dermatologist.

Triple Combination Cream:

This cream consists of three medications. One is tretinoin, the second is a corticosteroid and the last one is hydroquinone. These are used to reduce inflammation and to even your skin.

Other Medication:

Some other medicines may be prescribed by your dermatologist that even your skin gently. These may include azelaic acid, kojic acid, or vitamin C.

Melasma Prevention:

What is melasma prevention? there is no way you can avoid melasma if you get it through genetics. What you can do is to prevent melasma from getting worst. Right now, there is no complete medication that can prevent melasma. However, if you take a skin-friendly diet you may be able to get vitamin D which may help later.

Admin

31/Jan/2022

Tighten skin Under eyes. Sagging skin is a problem a lot of people face as they age. Your skin can sag from your face, your arms, your belly and even neck. But the good news is all of this can be treated with advanced aesthetic surgical and nonsurgical procedures such as:

A surgical lift for skin tightening

Surgical lift for skin tightening can be performed by invasive and minimally invasive methods and procedures like facelift and eye lid surgery are very effective for skin tightening. They can be performed not only on the face but also on body parts such as arms for skin tightening of sagging skin. These procedures can also tighten the skin under eyes which include:

PDO Thread Lift

PDO thread lift are minimally invasive threads that are placed under the skin to tighten the skin under eyes, above eyes, jowls and forehead. These threads stimulate collagen production for anti-aging.

Facelift Surgery

Facelift surgery is a surgical procedure for facial contouring and to tighten the skin under eye. It involves giving anesthesia to patients first, using incision and then closing after tightening the area.

Non Surgical lift for skin tightening

There are many non-invasive skin tightening procedures that do not involve any invasion/skin puncturing. These skin tightening procedures are quick and results can be seen after a few sessions. These skin tightening procedures include:

HIFU

HIFU stands for high intensity focused ultrasound is a noninvasive treatment for sagging skin and to tighten skin under eyes. This procedure is among the popular anti-aging treatments that provide some of the benefits of a facelift without the need for surgery.

Mesotherapy

Mesotherapy is also a popular facial contouring method that tightens the skin under eye as well as under chin and even body parts. It involves injecting a number of injections which break down unwanted small localized areas of fat. This process of breaking down body fat is referred to as lipolysis.

Laser treatment

Laser is the most popular and loved method for skin tightening under eye as well as the entire face. Lasers are used to send heat deep into the skin, destroying the epidermis to reach the underlying dermis. Laser treatments have proven to be particularly effective on the skin of the belly and upper arms. Most people receive from three to five sessions of laser treatment for skin tightening.

Botox and Dermal Fillers

Botox is also a very effective procedure for facial contouring. When used together with filler artistically, botox tends to freeze the muscle under skin to prevent the wrinkle from worsening while the filler fills the wrinkle to tighten skin. Botox and fillers are very effective anti-aging procedures that are also use to enhance facial features such as lip plumping, removal of wrinkles and fine lines etc. These methods are also very effective for skin rejuvenation.

What to expect from skin tightening aesthetic procedures:

The results appear slowly and naturally giving a younger look
Downtime is usually minimal or none at all
They can be used for facial and body contouring
Duration of the treatments depends on the type of procedure. Some of them can be performed within half and hour and even are known as lunch time procedures.
These procedures are not painful as they patient is always comfortable during the procedure. Pain after procedure can be easily managed by following the prescription given by the practitioner.
You can apply immediately after these procedures
The cost and price of each skin tightening procedure varies depending on the number of sessions and type of treatment being performed and the desired result to be achieved.

So, we are now familiar with the most common skin tightening procedures. You can choose the right one as per your requirements, needs and cost. Also, it is recommended to always consult a board-certified dermatologist for all your skin needs. A qualified practitioner will always get you the right results and save you from trouble and unnecessary expenses.

Admin

31/Jan/2022

Is Laser skin whitening permanent? Almost every individual on this planet wishes for a light skin tone. There are multiple factors that have created white skin as the standard of beauty. There are many options for skin whitening, like creams, gels, bleaches, and home remedies. But all of these can harm the skin badly. Many people take oral medications that too have their own side effects. In many situations, the skin may appear lighter but that effect is temporary and will fade away in some while.

We believe that every skin color has its own beauty but if your color is causing you mental trouble and is shaking your confidence should definitely do something about it.

Laser skin whitening is the solution to many problems. The most common question is Is Laser skin whitening permanent? Before we answer this question, we should know what skin whitening is.

What is skin whitening?

Skin whitening is a skin-lightening procedure. The melanin ratio in your skin decreases in the process. Melanin is an element that is responsible for the tone of your skin. The skin appears lighter after the ratio is decreased. That is why people with lighter skin tones have less melanin in their skin as compared to people with darker skin tones.

Laser skin whitening

Laser skin whitening also known as laser peels is a procedure that removes the unwanted outer layer of the skin. The removal of this skin layer helps the cells to build which results in a fairer skin tone.

Is Laser Skin Whitening Permanent?

Laser skin treatment is can be permanent if the person takes proper care of it post the procedure. The procedure is permanent but there are a few steps that make it long-lasting. Getting this treatment doesn’t mean that the skin needs no further care. The skin requires extra care after that, to avoid other skin irregularities.

Treatments for Skin Whitening

There are multiple ways for skin lightening. Every individual is not eligible forr every treatment.

Laser Skin Whitening

This is an advanced and effective skin-lightening technique. A beam of laser is used in this procedure. It destroys the outer layer of the skin resulting in lighter skin. This procedure also treats skin pigmentation, tanning, and dark spots.

Chemical Peeling

Chemical peeling is one of the safest skin whitening procedures. The peeling solution removes the outer layer of the skin. This allows the skin to shine bright. The skin tone also improves.

Skin whitening products

Skin whitening products are a solution that is available off the rack. This is easily accessible to everybody. There are many products with active/inactive ingredients that help in skin lightening. All of them are not safe to use.

Glutathione Skin whitening injections

One more technique that is used for skin lightening is skin whitening injections. It is an antioxidant, a molecule that helps fight free radicals. The free radicals are unstable molecules that form in response to factors like your food intake and the environment. The existence of more free radicals can cause skin damage. This can result in inflammation and many health issues like high blood pressure, diabetes, and more. Antioxidants are very critical as they help in keeping things in a healthy balance. There are some antioxidants that our body makes and there are some that come from the diet we take. Glutathione is also available in oral form. There are many benefits of these injections:

Stronger immune system
Increased energy
Brighter and lighter skin

It regulates important body processes.

Results of Laser skin whitening

The result is shown immediately after the procedure. There is a visible difference in the skin tone. The result varies from person to person.

Benefits of Skin whitening treatment

Brighter skin
Lighter skin tone
Quick and effective treatment.
Will transform your look.

Are you an ideal candidate for skin whitening?

There are a few conditions that make you an ideal candidate to get this procedure:

You must be above 18.
The aim is to go a few tones lighter than your current skin tone.
You don’t have any skin allergy
This is not for pregnant and lactating mothers.

Post-Treatment Care

The post care includes:

Avoid sun exposure.
Avoid scratching and picking your skin.
Keep your skin moisturized.

Admin

31/Jan/2022

Teenage acne

Acne and pimple are the most common skin condition among children and kids reaching puberty. To understand what causes acne and what are the options for the best teenage acne treatment in Islamabad , it is important to understand what acne is.

What is acne?

Acne vulgaris is a skin problem that causes skin problems like bumps, black and white heads, pustules, cysts and pimples. This skin problem can appear on any part of the face, shoulders, chest and back.

What are the types of teenage acne?

There are different types of acne that include:

Papules, pustules or nodules: This type of acne is most serious and causes red or white lesions with inflammation that may lead to infection deep inside the skin. This can become painful and needs medical intervention and proper treatment by a board certified dermatologist for teenage acne treatment in Islamabad.

Whiteheads: This type of acne has white dots that appear on top of the pores that are clogged due to any reason.

Blackheads: Blackheads are those pores in which sebum and other material oozes out through the follicles. The color of this type of teenage acne is black because of the infection.

Cysts: This type of acne has pus-filled pimples and cystic acne must be treated under a professional practitioner’s supervision and advice.

What causes teenage acne?

Our skin contains pores that have oil glands beneath. The oil that is produced by these glands is called sebum. The skin becomes inflamed when these pores are clogged. It can happen at any age but almost all teenagers get acne. This could also be because of hormonal changes in the body.

Teenage Acne Treatment

Teenage acne treatment is something that board-certified doctors should treat only. After your doctor identifies the type of teenage acne, the treatment for acne is accordingly. Your doctor will decide whether your teenage needs topical medicines to be applied on your acne or oral medication is also needed to treat the acne. Where acne has health issues, it can also have psychological impact like lowering self esteem, shattering confidence in young kids etc. It is important to take it seriously and getting an effective treatment before it leave acne scars and more invasive procedures are required to improve skin and texture.

Here are the dos and donts for teenagers suffering from any kind of acne:

Don’t pick your acne

Your hands are the most exposed parts of the body and tend to carry germs. When you touch your face, you may introduce bacteria and your acne is likely to get worse. So, rule number 1 is NOT to pick your acne

Keep your skin clean

Wash your face twice a day with a mild unscented soap or with any medicated soap prescribed by your doctor.

Know your skin type

It is also very important to know your skin type. Your skin could be oily, dry or combination skin. When you know your skin type, choose your skin care products for teenage acne treatment accordingly. The doctors also emphasize about knowing our skin type and choosing the product that suits our skin needs.

Sun Protection

Indoors or outdoors, UV rays are everywhere. It is advised to wear sun protection/sun screen twice a day for maximum coverage against UV rays that are emitted by sun and our screens and gadgets indoors.

Lifestyle modification

Teenage acne treatment also includes changes in lifestyle. Remaining active throughout the day, keeping a balanced diet and adopting an active lifestyle

Hydration

A minimum of 8 glasses a day of water gives a good hydration to our bodies. It also helps in eliminating toxins out of body that can cause teenage acne on face, neck, shoulders and back.

Acne is treatable and one should always reach out for professional assistance for teenage acne treatment for teenagers that are going through a difficult stage where their hormonal changes and lifestyle can trigger acne thereby affecting their confidence and self-esteem. As parents, it is important to understand the needs of our teenagers and addressing them rightly. In case of teenage or adult acne, see a board certified dermatologist immediately.

Admin

24/Jan/2022

What Does a HydraFacial Machine Do?

HydraFacial is a term that we hear a lot nowadays, a treatment almost everybody is raving about. But before you think of getting it done, you must know what does a HydraFacial actually does? And before that, we should know what is a HydraFacial and what does HydraFacial Machine Do?

Everyone on this planet wants young and youthful skin but that requires a regular effort and nobody has time for that, so to counter that the dermatologists have introduced HydraFacial which is a quick and effective procedure and the results last for about one month.

There are many clinics that offer HydraFacial in Islamabad. HydraFacial is a multi-step facial. HydraFacial MD is used in this procedure. In the process, the aestheticians use the machine to cleanse, exfoliate, extract, with a variety of rejuvenating serums. The HydraFacial adds a wow factor to the skin and makes it glow. Most people get it to add some extra glow before a big event.

The hydrafacial uses a suction tip to remove the dead layer. The serums add hydration to the skin. The treatment takes around 30 minutes.

What Does HydraFacial Machine Do?

The hydrafacial is a three-step process:

Cleanse
Extract
Hydrate

Cleanse

In the first step, the skin is cleansed by removing the outermost layer of dead skin. It is the first and most important step of the procedure.

Extract

Extraction is the second step. The suction tube cleans the clogged pores. The gunk is taken out with the help of the machine.

Hydrate

The last step is to infuse serums and protect the skin from any kind of damage. The serums help the skin to glow and keep it hydrated which is the main purpose of the treatment.

HydraFacial is best for getting rid of:

Fine lines and wrinkles

Skin Texture

Enlarged pores

Oily congested skin

Brown spots

HydraFacial is best to get:

Hydrating Skin

Elasticity and Firmness

Vibrant skin

Even tone

Smooth skin

Skin experts think that hydration is the most important factor of the skin. Dry and flaky skin indicates that your skin needs hydration. Hydration determines the health of your skin. Dry skin not only looks bad but can become worse if not treated properly. HydraFacial is one of the treatments that help with treating dry skin. The infusions of serums help the skin to rejuvenate and get the needed glow.

Benefits of HydraFacial

The most talked-about procedure in town has multiple benefits. It is a noninvasive procedure that combines cleansing, extracting, and infusions. The aftereffect of this treatment is glowing bright skin. The key features of HydraFacial are:

Easy on Skin

The procedure is really easy and light on the skin. Although exfoliation and extractions are a part of it, it is painless. The serums in the procedure make it gentle on the skin.

Zero down-time

There is practically no downtime in this treatment. The treatment takes 30 minutes. There is no redness on the skin after the procedure. No after-care is required. The results are visible immediately after the procedure. Makeup can be applied to get the HydraFacial.

Suitable for all skin types

HydraFacial is suitable for skin colors and types. It is also suitable for all ages and genders. This inclusivity of the hydra facial makes it more lovable.

Customizable

The procedure is customizable. The esthetician can customize the HydraFacial according to the need of the person. The suction tool, the power of the suction tool, and the infused serums. Everything is designed according to the need and issues of the skin. The vacuum of the suction is adjusted according to the sensitivity of the area.

Pairable

HydraFacial is a noninvasive procedure so it can be paired with other treatments. The combination treatments give better and long-lasting results.

Are Hydra Facial and Micro Dermabrasion the same?

This is a very common confusion between these two procedures. The two treatments might look similar but they have different key features. In microdermabrasion, dermatologists use manual extractions while in HydraFacial, the clogged pores are cleaned by a vacuum-like tip. Hydrafacial is less painful than microdermabrasion. It is for all skin tones, ages, and genders. The results may vary from person to person, which is a possibility in every skin treatment. Both treatments are different.

Admin

20/Sep/2017

You may have heard that the actor Hugh Jackman was recently diagnosed with skin cancer. Apparently it was his wife who prompted him to get the spot checked out. Fortunately, it was caught early and easily treated. But if he’s like many men, skin cancer isn’t top of mind. After all, the popular press tends to focus on women’s skin care and sun protection.

In fact, men over 50 are at double the risk to die from skin cancer when compared to women. They’re also at substantially increased risk for squamous cell skin cancer and basal cell skin cancer.

Although anyone’s skin can be damaged by the sun, men tend to spend more time outdoors, use less sun protection, and visit the doctor less often. All of that leads to an increased risk of cancer and larger cancers that can be disfiguring and even deadly. As with all skin cancer, prevention and early detection are the keys for men living in sunny climates like Austin.

Many skin care products and sunscreens are marketed to women which sometimes means they have a scent or creamy feel that men don’t like. It can also be difficult to get creamy sunscreens through to the skin if you have a lot of hair on your arms and chest. A broad-brimmed hat (such as a cowboy hat or Tilley hat) is a quick way to protect your face and neck. Although a ball cap will help somewhat, it doesn’t protect your ears, neck, and the sides of your face.

At Evans Dermatology Partners, we carry several sunscreens particularly because they appeal to men. The one I like best is the Solbar 30 Gel Sunscreen. It’s alcohol-based (like a hand sanitizer) which means that it doesn’t leave a residue on the skin. Many men also like the Elta UV Aero, a non-greasy spray. Also, it’s common for sunscreen to be ineffective because too little is applied. A good rule of thumb is to use a golf-ball sized amount (1 oz.) to cover the face and body.

It’s important to remember to use sun protection not only when working or playing outdoors but for driving as well. About 60% of skin cancer in men is on the left side of the body due to exposure through car glass. If you’re balding on top, remember to apply sunscreen there (gel is great for the scalp since it doesn’t leave the hair feeling greasy). And wear your hat – the balding scalp is a common skin cancer site for men.

Keeping sunscreen easily accessible helps make it part of your routine. Have several bottles which you can put in your golf bag, with your lawnmower or outdoor tools, or with sporting equipment. This simple reminder helps make it easy to reapply every two hours when outside.

Men are less likely to visit the dermatologist or perform self-skin exams than women, which helps account for the higher death rate from melanoma in men. Early detection is the key to surviving melanoma, so set an alarm on your phone or calendar to remind you to examine your skin before your shower on the first day of every month.

For our skin checks at Evans Dermatology, we have paper shorts to help us examine your skin completely – avoiding those sometimes embarrassing hospital-style gowns.

Sometimes it helps to think about your skin and your health like you would think about your car. You would never drive your car for years without getting the oil changed, checking your tire tread, and following maintenance guidelines and if you noticed something wrong you would get it checked out. Although you might get away with ignoring maintenance for a while, you would eventually have a breakdown.

Of course, you can always get a new car, but your health is irreplaceable. So protect yourself with a brimmed hat and sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher), see your dermatologist for regular skin checks, and keep a regular eye on your skin. Taking good care of your skin now will save you time, money, and maybe your life.

Admin

20/Sep/2017

Ultraviolet (UV) light makes up a small portion of the sun’s rays and is the major cause of skin damage. Exposure to UV rays causes damage to DNA in skin cells, increases the risk of skin cancer, and accelerates signs of aging (fine lines, deep wrinkles, dark spots, etc). There are three types of UV light: UVA, UVB and UVC. Let’s look at their differences and how they affect the appearance and health of your skin.

UVA: UVA light is not absorbed by the ozone layer and is able to penetrate the dermis in humans, which is the deepest layer of skin. UVA rays cause many effects on the skin including immediate skin redness and darkness, formation of fine lines, wrinkles and age spots. UVA plays a minor role in the development of skin cancer because it causes formation of free radicals in the skin. It is able to penetrate glass (windows), which is why wearing sunscreen on a daily basis is recommended, even if you don’t go outdoors. A great example of the advanced skin aging that can be seen with daily exposure to UVA can be seen in the photo below that was published in the New England Journal of Medicine. The man in this photo was a truck driver for 25 years and you can easily see that the left side of his face has thicker skin and deeper wrinkles.

Remember, UVA = Aging

UVB: UVB is another form of UV light and not all UVB reaches the earth because some rays are absorbed by the ozone layer. Because UVB rays are shorter and have a higher frequency, they are more damaging to skin as they penetrate the epidermis (top layer of skin). UVB radiation causes sunburns and delayed tanning. It plays a major role in the development of all types of skin cancers causing DNA damage to skin cells and the immune system. UVB is also important in the synthesis of Vitamin D3.

Remember, UVB = Bad Burns

UVC: UVC rays are too short to get through the Earth’s atmosphere. Although UVC is the most dangerous form of UV radiation, it is completely absorbed by the ozone layer and does not normally cause skin cancer.

Of course, the amount of UV light that reaches a person at any given time and place is dependent on many factors including the time of day, time of the year, elevation, and cloud cover. The UV Index (ranges from 1-11+) is something one can refer to see how intense the UV light is in the area. A higher number means greater exposure of UV rays and a higher risk of sunburn and skin damage. For the daily UV index in Austin, click here.

What’s the difference between a tanning booth and phototherapy treatment?

I often have patients ask me this question because dermatologists make a big deal about avoiding outdoor sun exposure and tanning booths at all costs. “Why shouldn’t I use a tanning booth if you have a tanning booth in your office?” Tanning booths and phototherapy booths are very different. Here are the facts:

Tanning booths:

Most tanning booths give off primarily UVA rays
20 minutes spent in an indoor tanning booth equals about 2-3 hours in the noontime sun
People who first use a tanning bed before age 35 increase their risk for melanoma by 75%
People who use tanning beds are 2.5 times more likely to develop squamous cell carcinoma and 1.5 times more likely to develop basal cell carcinoma
The Federal Trade Commission has ruled against claiming health benefits for indoor tanning

Phototherapy booths:

Phototherapy is light therapy that is prescribed and administered by a dermatologist in their office. Treatment involves exposing the skin to an artificial UV light source for a set length of time on a regular schedule.
Nowadays, the most common type of phototherapy used is called narrowband UVB; ”narrowband” refers to a specific wavelength of UV radiation that is safe for the skin.
Narrowband UVB has anti-inflammatory effects on the skin and is used to treat many skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, vitiligo and even some types of skin lymphomas.
There is no evidence to suggest that broadband or narrowband UVB treatments increase the risk of skin cancer.

Read More: Sun Protection for Men

What about Vitamin D?

While it is true that exposure to sunlight (specifically UVB) helps to produce Vitamin D3 in your body, the amount of sunlight that you actually need for adequate levels of Vitamin D is minimal. About 5-10 minutes of exposure to the arms and legs OR hands, arms and face 2-3 times per week is sufficient for healthy Vitamin D levels. This is especially true if you eat foods that are high in Vitamin D (i.e. fish, mushrooms, tofu/soy, dairy, eggs) and/or take oral Vitamin D supplements. Because it is not uncommon for some people to have low Vitamin D levels, especially in areas of the country that tend to be overcast during most of the year, most physicians now recommend daily oral supplementation. This is especially important for women who are at increased risk of developing osteomalacia/osteoporosis. Currently the recommended dose of Vitamin D for the general population is 600 IU for those 1-70 years of age and pregnant or breastfeeding women, and 800 IU for those over 71 years of age.

What can I do to protect myself?

The lesson to learn here is that sunlight is not the enemy but rather the conduit of an unavoidable exposure (UV radiation) that we must learn to control. I myself love being active outdoors on a nice sunny afternoon. On days such as these when we venture out to enjoy nature we can protect our skin by trying to linger in shaded areas, wearing sunscreen on exposed areas of the skin (minimum SPF of 30, reapplying every 1-2 hours) and wearing photoprotective clothing (wide brimmed hats, sunglasses, breathable long sleeved shirts, etc).

For everyday protection I recommend using a moisturizer with sunscreen on the face, neck and chest. Minimizing exposure to UV radiation through these measures is one of the best things we can do for our skin in order to decelerate the signs of aging and prevent skin cancer.

Admin

20/Sep/2017

Our society increasingly relies on family and friends as caregivers for those who can no longer care for themselves. If you’re doing the hard work of a part- or full-time caregiver, these tips may help you care for your loved one’s skin as part of their overall health.

Skin plays a very practical role as a barrier to germs and diseases and also helps keep our temperature and blood chemistry where it should be. When someone is not able to move and bathe normally, the risk of skin problems increases, including non-healing wounds that can become infected and even dangerous. And even conditions that are generally non-life threatening, such as uncontrolled itching or lower extremity swelling, can make life very difficult.

In addition, the condition of the skin, hair and nails is important to quality of life. Identity and self-image can be significantly affected, and that can contribute to social isolation. Of course, it is important to take into account the individual’s perspective – something that may cause one person to feel disfigured may be seen by someone else as a normal part of aging.

We hope these skincare tips for caregivers help you support your loved one in the best way you can.

Bathing

Keeping the skin clean is the first step in decreasing the risk of wounds, ulcers, and rashes. However, regular bathing can be difficult, and sometimes frightening, for someone who is in a wheelchair or who has limited mobility. Setting up a safe bathing area, with non-skid surfaces and grab rails, can help significantly. Since hot water contributes to dry skin, a moderate temperature is best.

A gentle soap, such a Dove for Sensitive Skin or Cetaphil Gentle Cleanser, is the best option. Make sure to help rinse well with fresh water. Pat completely dry with towels and avoid rubbing to prevent irritation. It is particularly important to ensure that any folds in the skin (for example, under the breasts) are cleaned and carefully dried. These are common areas for skin infections.

A hair dryer on “cool” setting can also help gently dry the skin to avoid chafing.

Moisturizing

Many elderly people have very dry skin that is more prone to splits or tears. Using a fragrance-free moisturizer like Aveeno Active Naturals Daily Moisturizing Lotion or Cetaphil Cream can help soften the skin and reduce itching. There are tools, such as ReachMate+, that can make it easier for older adults to apply moisturizer themselves. Take care to avoid making the feet slippery when applying moisturizers, and immediately clean any that falls on the floor.

Reducing Prolonged Sitting

Many disabled patients spend hours in a chair or wheelchair since walking is difficult. Sitting for too long in one position can reduce blood flow to the skin of the buttocks. This can lead to a painful red area (“hot spot”) which can eventually lead to an ulcer. Ulcers like this can be very difficult to heal and also lead to infection in the body.

Using a donut-style cushion and repositioning regularly will help. Use a kitchen timer to remind the patient to shift positions frequently – ideally every 15-20 minutes, and every two hours at a minimum. If the person can walk safely, get up and walk regularly. Cushions or mattresses should be soft (like an egg crate). For completely immobile patients, special beds to prevent ulcers are available through your doctor or social worker. See you doctor immediately for any concerns about possible ulcers forming, especially on the bottom or legs.

Incontinence

Some people with serious medical problems have trouble controlling their bowels or bladder. In these cases it is important to keep the person clean and dry and use an adult diaper that is soft and absorbent.

Soft toilet paper with Cetaphil Gentle Cleanser can be used to clean the area (it does not have to be washed off) followed by a protective ointment like Triple Paste or A&D Ointment. For sleeping, disposable pads are available to protect sheets and the bed. Consult your doctor to help look for the cause if someone has new or worsening incontinence.

Swelling and Constrictions

Swelling in the lower legs is a common concern among older adults. Properly fitting compression stockings can help considerably. The Comfort Store here in Austin specializes in fitting these garments, though a doctor’s prescription may be needed for high compression levels.

Avoid anything that constricts the arm or leg, unless using support hose under the care of a doctor. A tight-fitting watch band, socks, or garments can restrict blood flow. Over time, this constriction can cause uncomfortable swelling, damage the skin, and increase the risk for deep vein thrombosis which can be life threatening.

Bruising

Older adults and their caregivers are often concerned by large areas of bruising, particularly on the hands and forearms. Most commonly, this is caused by “senile purpura” which is a benign condition caused by increasing fragility of the skin and blood vessels as the body ages. Though senile purpura is not dangerous, it can be cosmetically troubling. This kind of bruising is very difficult to prevent, since it results from everyday activities. Over-the-counter creams containing arnica (for example, DerMend) may help somewhat. Of course, sudden unexplained bruising should be discussed with a doctor as it could be a sign of trauma or another underlying condition.

Signs of Skin Cancer

You probably know that older adults are at a significantly increased risk of skin cancer, especially when the patient has a history of previous skin cancers. At the same time, self-monitoring the skin can become more difficult. It is common for older patients to have a large number of lesions on their skin, so noticing a specific spot that is new or changing can be very difficult for a layperson. As a result, it is important to seek the care of a board certified dermatologist when there is a concern about the skin.

When caught early, skin cancer is very treatable even in older patients. When in doubt, have the spot checked out. Even the less dangerous forms of skin cancer can cause significant disfigurement and impairment if left untreated.

Signs of Infection

Even with gentle care, many elderly or disabled people get small cuts, bruises, or ulcers from daily life. Any wound that has redness around it or where the skin is hot, tender, or weeping fluid should be seen immediately by a doctor. If it is at night or on the weekend, go to the nearest emergency room or call 911. Skin infections can worsen rapidly and cause further disability or even death if not treated quickly.

Getting Help

Many social services are available, through insurance and the government, to support disabled patients and their caregivers. Ask your doctor for a referral for services or for a social worker who can help. In Austin, you can also dial 211 to connect to the United Way and over 10,000 healthcare and other services. Being a caregiver for a chronically ill person can be difficult for anyone. Do not be afraid to ask for help for yourself or the person you care for.

Caregiving is very important but also can be very difficult and draining. Don’t try to go it alone but make sure you have support from your family, your doctor, and local social services to help you do the best job you can.

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