FAQ’s

HOW OFTEN SHOULD I RECEIVE A FULL BODY SKIN SCREENING?

The American Academy of Dermatology recommends a full body examination once a year for all ages and skin types. However, if you have had a prior history of skin cancer, you may need to come twice yearly. A full body skin examination is essential in the detection of early skin cancer. Special instruments such as a dermatoscope can aid such early detection. It is important to have all of your moles checked so that a baseline can be established and photographs taken to monitor changes if necessary. Education on signs and symptoms of skin cancer are also reviewed in full detail at this visit.

WHAT ARE THE BEST MOISTURIZERS, SOAPS OR COSMECEUTICALS?

Petrolatum, an ingredient in many lotions, creams and ointments, is an excellent moisturizer. Other ingredients such as urea, alpha hydroxy acids, lactic acid, and ammonium lactate help the skin hold water.

HOW DO I PROTECT MYSELF FROM THE SUN?

1. Generously apply sunscreen to all exposed skin, including lips and ears.
2. Wear protective clothing such as long sleeves, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses if possible.
3. Seek shade. The sun's rays are strongest beween the hours of 10 a.m and 4 p.m.
4. Use extra caution near water, snow and sand because they reflect the damaging rays of the sun, increasing risk of sunburn.
5. Protect children from sun exposure.
6. Get vitamin D through food or vitamin supplements.
7. Avoid tanning beds.

HOW CAN I TELL IF A SKIN GROWTH IS DANGEROUS?

Only a dermatologist can distinguish a benign skin growth from cancer. If you have a suspicious growth, your dermatologist is likely to remove part or all of it for biopsy. In some cases, he or she will advise additional treatment to ensure that all the cancer cells have been removed.

ARE TANNING BEDS SAFE?

The US Department of Health & Human Services and the World Health Organization International Agency for Research on Cancer have confirmed that ultraviolet radiation from tanning beds can cause cancer. Recent research shows a 75% increase in the risk of melanoma in people who have been exposed to UV radiation from indoor tanning before age 35.

WHICH WRINKLE TREATMENTS GET RID OF FOREHEAD LINES / CROWS FEET LINES / FROWN LINES?

Botox is usually considered the treatment of choice for reducing forehead lines. It is safe and highly effective, and the treatment takes only around 10 minutes with no downtime required. Botox works by relaxing the muscles that cause forehead wrinkles, allowing the skin to smooth out. If you have deeply etched forehead lines, you may need laser resurfacing or filler as well to smooth your lines out effectively. Visit a board-certified dermatologist for a consultation to see what treatment is best for you.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO SEE RESULTS FROM BOTOX AND JUVEDERM?

Botox takes 3-7 days to begin to see results, with full results appearing after two weeks. Juvederm results are immediate, although there may be swelling that obscures them for up to a week, especially if done in the lips. Always be sure to see a board-certified dermatologist to ensure that you get the best results.

WHAT TREATMENTS ARE AVAILABLE FOR HAIR LOSS?

With correct diagnosis, many people with hair loss can be helped. Hair loss is typically treated with topical medications such as minoxidil (rogaine) and/or oral medications such as finasteride (propecia). Alopecia Areata is treated with injected or topical steroids. With correct diagnosis and treatment, many patients will experience improvement in their hair loss. In some types of hair loss, hair transplantation may be helpful.