Dermatologist in Southlake, TX

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Clogged Pores and Acne

Clogged pores can result in what is commonly called blackheads. Our first instinct is often to get it out. However, this can lead to injury of the delicate pore and further problems, such as a pimple, or even acne. Pores produce the oil that makes our skin waterproof.  Unfortunately, the oil, called sebum sometimes clogs the pore, and along with dead skin cells, produces the blackhead. Your body recognizes the oil as something not supposed to be stuck there, and sends in white blood cells, creating red inflammation. The best way to prevent ongoing blackheads, pimples or acne is to see your dermatologist. A Compassion Dermatology, dermatologist in Southlake, TX knows how to treat the conditions that lead to unsightly pimples, and acne. You can have better skin, and we can you! Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

Chemical exfoliation is one treatment for removing blackheads. Most over the counter products simply are not strong enough to properly exfoliate the skin. A Compassion Dermatology dermatologist will assess your skin, and can develop a treatment plan for you, and prescribe a prescription strength product. This product not only generates skin cell turnover to rid your skin of blackheads, it will also help to prevent new ones from forming. After approximately a month of treatment, if any remain, your dermatologist in Southlake can safely extract them.

Do not pick at clogged pores, but you also do not want to ignore your skin. A Compassion Dermatology dermatologist in Southlake, TX can examine your skin, and provide you with the best treatment based on your skin’s individual characteristics for a successful outcome. Remember, clogged pores can lead to acne, and the resulting potential for scarring. Schedule a consultation with a dermatologist today for the smooth, beautiful skin nature intended.

Acne

When the clogged pores lead to acne, prompt attention is required to prevent permanent scarring and dark spots. Acne is not just a skin condition for teens. The number of cases involving adult acne is growing, and at present the causes are not understood. Fortunately, there are a number of effective acne treatments.

Clogged Pores and Acne

Clogged pores can result in what is commonly called blackheads. Our first instinct is often to get it out. However, this can lead to injury of the delicate pore and further problems, such as a pimple, or even acne. Pores produce the oil that makes our skin waterproof.  Unfortunately, the oil, called sebum sometimes clogs the pore, and along with dead skin cells, produces the blackhead. Your body recognizes the oil as something not supposed to be stuck there, and sends in white blood cells, creating red inflammation. The best way to prevent ongoing blackheads, pimples or acne is to see your dermatologist. A Compassion Dermatology, dermatologist in Southlake, TX knows how to treat the conditions that lead to unsightly pimples, and acne. You can have better skin, and we can you! Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

Chemical exfoliation is one treatment for removing blackheads. Most over the counter products simply are not strong enough to properly exfoliate the skin. A Compassion Dermatology dermatologist will assess your skin, and can develop a treatment plan for you, and prescribe a prescription strength product. This product not only generates skin cell turnover to rid your skin of blackheads, it will also help to prevent new ones from forming. After approximately a month of treatment, if any remain, your dermatologist in Southlake can safely extract them.

Do not pick at clogged pores, but you also do not want to ignore your skin. A Compassion Dermatology dermatologist in Southlake, TX can examine your skin, and provide you with the best treatment based on your skin’s individual characteristics for a successful outcome. Remember, clogged pores can lead to acne, and the resulting potential for scarring. Schedule a consultation with a dermatologist today for the smooth, beautiful skin nature intended.

Acne

When the clogged pores lead to acne, prompt attention is required to prevent permanent scarring and dark spots. Acne is not just a skin condition for teens. The number of cases involving adult acne is growing, and at present the causes are not understood. Fortunately, there are a number of effective acne treatments.

Types

Acne is graded in severity from one (mild) to 4 (severe). When your dermatologist in Southlake, TX examines your skin, your doctor will note which type or types is affecting your skin.

The variety of treatments for acne mean there is help to control it for all types. This is why you should not share medication with a friend. What is right for your friends acne, may not be the proper product for yours. Even with the proper treatment, it may take 4 to 8 weeks to see an improvement. Once the acne clears, you continue the treatment to prevent future breakouts. Far too often, persons who self treat expect immediate improvement, and when it does not occur they stop treatment. This is another reason you should consult with a dermatologist, who can tell you approximately how long before you should see results. Severe acne often requires professional treatment by a dermatologist in Southlake, TX. It’s better to start earlier, rather than to wait until  permanent scarring and other related problems occurs.

Types of Acne Treatments

If you have severe acne, cysts or nodules you will need to see a dermatologist in Southlake, TX for an effective treatment. The following are some of the treatments available:

Topical Treatments

Topical treatments are a common form of treatment for acne, and are applied to the skin. There are a number of topical acne treatments available from your dermatologist. The treatment you are prescribed will be based on your individual skin needs. For example, some topical products help to  kill the bacteria, while others will reduce the oil. Prescription strength retinoid, benzoyl peroxide, antibiotic, or even salicylic acid may be prescribed. Your dermatologist in Southlake, TX will determine the best treatment for your acne.

Oral Treatments

Severe acne may require an oral treatment. This type of treatment is often necessary to effectively treat acne with cysts and nodules. Your dermatologist may prescribe an oral treatment, which may include:

  • Antibiotics which reduces inflammation and kills bacteria
  • Birth control pills or other hormonal treatment
  • Isotretinoin works on all types of acne, but is used for cystic acne that has not responded to other treatment. It works by reducing the amount of oil produced.

In Office Procedures

Your dermatologist in Southlake, TX may provide in office treatment for your acne. These procedures may include:

  • Light therapies, including laser.
  • In office chemical peels are not available over the counter.
  • Your dermatologist in Southlake, TX may perform drainage and extraction in order to remove a large acne cyst. This procedure helps when the cyst does not respond to medication. The procedure reduces the pain associated with the cyst, and reduces the chances of scarring from the cyst.

Outcome

Without treatment, acne may lead to permanent scars, low self-esteem, depression, and anxiety. Professional treatment will ensure the best outcome, and can clear the acne, prevent additional scarring, and new breakouts. Contact Compassion Dermatology today to schedule a consultation with a dermatologist in Southlake, TX. We can help you to have beautiful skin.

Dermatologist in Southlake, TX

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Hyperpigmentation, Age Spots, & Melasma

Has your skin experienced damage this summer? You may have noticed as your tan deepens, so did your age spots and melasma. Contact Compassion Dermatology to schedule an appointment with a dermatologist in Southlake, TX if you would like to reduce their appearance.

Use Sunscreens

Use sunscreen every day to prevent further pigmentation. Apply a retinol product to work while you sleep. Retinol stimulates the skin cells to turn over, beginning the process of removing the pigmented cells. As new skin cells are replaced, they should be normally pigmented cells.

Your options for hyperpigmentation treatment vary, ranging from chemical peels to laser treatments. Your dermatologist in Southlake, TX will determine the most effective treatment based on the cause.

Melasma

Melasma, is often called the “Mask of Pregnancy”, when in fact birth control pills can also cause it. It is a hormone-caused hyperpigmentation that usually causes large patches of brown to gray-brown on the face. It is common on the cheeks, bridge of the nose, forehead, chin, and above the upper lip. However, it can also can appear on other areas of the body that get lots of sun.

Melasma is treated differently than sun damage, so it is important to see a dermatologist for an accurate diagnosis. Contact Compassion Dermatology today to schedule a consultation with a dermatologist in Southlake, TX.

For melasma, prevention with sunscreen and a wide brimmed hat when outdoors can stop further damage. It will typically fade after you give birth, or if birth control pills are stopped.  If the melasma does not fade, or a woman wants to continue taking birth control pills, melasma treatments are available. Your individual treatment plan will depend on a number of factors, such as the skin type, and depth of the melasma, for example. Your  dermatologist in Southlake, TX will design a treatment plan individualized for you.

Age Spots

Brown spots, such as age spots or freckles, are small, flat areas. Your Compassion dermatologist in Southlake, TX can provide treatment for lightening or removing them. The pigment is located at the base of the epidermis, which is the outermost layer of skin. Therefore, any treatments meant to lighten age spots must penetrate this layer of skin.

Age spots are also often called sun spots. Age spot treatments by your dermatologist in Southlake, TX may include:

  1. Medications such as prescription bleaching creams containing hydroquinone. These may be used alone or with retinoids (tretinoin) and/or a mild steroid to gradually fade the spots over time. It is recommended you use a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30 if you use medication treatments. Potential side effects include temporary itching, redness or burning.
  2. Laser and intense pulse light therapy destroy melanocytes, the melanin-producing cells without damage to the skin’s surface. Two to three sessions may be required. After treatment, the age spots will gradually fade over the next several weeks or months. Sun protection is also necessary after these treatments.
  3. Freezing (cryotherapy) uses a cotton swab to apply a freezing agent to the age spots to destroy the extra pigment. As the area heals, the skin appears lighter. Freezing is typically used on a solitary age spot or a small area with age spots. The treatment may cause temporary irritation and has a slight risk of scarring or discoloration.
  4. Dermabrasion and Microdermabrasion is the removal of superficial layers of skin with a rapidly revolving tool. As new layers of skin grow, the discoloration is reduced or removed. More than one treatment may be required. Side effects include temporary redness and scab formation.

Microdermabrasion is a less aggressive approach for mild skin blemishes and provides a smoother appearance. Several treatments by your dermatologist in Southlake, TX are typically required over a period of months.

  1. A chemical peel uses the application of a chemical solution to exfoliate the skin. As the skin peels, new skin forms. Multiple treatments may be required. Sun protection is required following this treatment. Temporary redness may occur, and there is a slight risk of permanent changes in skin color.

Home Treatments

There are a number of fade creams and lotions for lightening age spots available over the counter. These may or may not help reduce the appearance of age spots.  How dark they are and how often you apply the cream can affect the results. Use will be required over a number of weeks or months before any potential results can be seen. It is important to note that these products may cause skin irritation. Scarring may occur, especially without medical supervision. A Compassion Dermatology, dermatologist in Southlake, TX can provide the professional diagnosis, prescribing an individualized treatment plan based  on your skin type, type of age spot and medical supervision providing the best outcome. Over the counter products are not as effective as prescription strength products obtained from your dermatologist.

Skin Biopsy

Sometimes age spots may appear similar to other conditions. Your dermatologist in Southlake, TX may perform other tests, such as a skin biopsy, to distinguish an age spot from other conditions, such as a melanoma. In a skin biopsy, your doctor will take a small amount of the skin for microscopic examination. A biopsy is typically done in your doctor’s office, using a local anesthetic.

Contact Compassion Dermatology today to schedule a consultation with our dermatologist in Southlake, TX for all your skin concerns. We offer professional service is a compassionate, healing atmosphere ensuring your health and well being.

Impetigo | Dermatologist in Southlake, TX

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Impetigo is an extremely contagious skin disease caused by bacteria, typically “staph” (Staphylococcus) or “strep” (Streptococcus) bacteria. Children ages 2 to 5 years of age are the most likely to develop the disease, but older children and adults can also experience it. Furthermore, impetigo can spread to other parts of the body without caution. To help prevent the spread of this highly contagious disease, your Compassion Dermatology dermatologist in Southlake, TX recommends the following.

  1. If you or your child has been diagnosed with impetigo, avoid direct skin-to-skin contact with others to help prevent the spread of impetigo until you re no longer contagious.
  2. Impetigo is contagious until you have been treated with an antibiotic for 24 to 48 hours.
  3. Avoid touching and scratching the sores to avoid spreading the infection to other areas of your body.
  4. Keep the sores clean and covered. Clean the sores with soap and water as recommended by your dermatologist, and cover them with gauze bandages. Wash your hands when your treatment is complete. Use a clean washcloth and towel each time you provide wound care or use paper towels. In addition, use the same practice when you bathe.
  5. Do not share personal items with others. Examples include, towels, toys, razors, and other items.
  6. Launder all clothing, towels, washcloth and the sheets you have used or worn in hot water. Do not wash other household members’ clothing  with those of the infected.
  7. In order to prevent the spread of impetigo, disinfect all surfaces the infected person has touched, including door knobs, or any other surfaces.
  8. Trim your child’s nails as impetigo can be itchy. Ask your dermatologist in Southlake, TX about using an anti-itch medication for your child.

Preventing Impetigo

Impetigo is extremely contagious, so it may not be possible to avoid getting it again. Doing the following, however, can reduce your risk:

  1. Treat wounds, such as a cut, scrape, pet scratches, insect bite, or any other wound, promptly. Wash it with soap and water, and apply an antibiotic ointment and a bandage.
  2. Wash your hands with soap and water after using the toilet and when they are dirty. Always use a clean towel or paper towel to dry your hands.
  3. As with treating those already have impetigo, do not share items to prevent the spread.
  4. Don’t wear dirty clothes out of the laundry.

Diagnosis

A dermatologist in Southlake, TX  can typically diagnose impetigo by looking at the skin. Occasionally, a lab test may be required, obtaining a sample from a blister. This will identify the type of bacteria affecting your skin. When the symptoms indicate the infection may be widespread, a blood test may be ordered.

Treatment

Because impetigo is so contagious, your child may need to stay home from school/daycare for a few days. Your dermatologist in Southlake, TX  often prescribe a special antibiotic that is applied to the affected skin. In severe cases, oral or injectable antibiotics may be prescribed. Without medical treatment, it is possible for impetigo to infect deep in the skin, with deeper erosion. When this occurs, it is called ecthyma, which can lead to scarring. However, this isn’t the only potential complication of untreated impetigo. Additional potential complications related to impetigo include cellulitis, meningitis, or post streptococcal glomerulonephritis.

Early diagnosis and treatment by a Compassion Dermatology, dermatologist in Southlake, TX can prevent complications from occurring.

The Two Types

Impetigo is considered the non-blistering type, or the blistering type.

The non-blistering type presents as tiny pimples or red areas quickly turning into oozing honey-colored, crusted patches that spread. There may be complaints of itching, and swollen lymph nodes are possible. The affected person generally feels otherwise well.

The blistering form differs in that it spreads more frequently .

  • Painless blisters (about an inch or less) occur that may break easily.
  • These can spread to the face, trunk, arms, or legs.
  • The person feels generally well.

The severe form may present with large lesions, and the person is likely to feel ill, and experience fever, weakness and diarrhea. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, contact our dermatologist in Southlake, TX.

When to Seek Medical Care

If the infection is moderate to severe or there is fever or pain, see a dermatologist in Southlake, TX. Generally, with any infection that is not improving see your doctor. If you are already being treated for impetigo and there has been no improvement within 2–3 days of antibiotics, return to your doctor.

MRSA

Staphylococcus aureus is a strain of “staph” bacteria. Staph that is resistant to penicillin antibiotics is commonly called MRSA, and is a common cause of skin infections. While MRSA bacteria are resistant to penicillin and penicillin-related antibiotics, most staph infections can be easily treated by health care practitioners using local skin care and commonly available non-penicillin-family antibiotics.

A Staph infection typically begins as small red bumps or pus-filled bumps, which turn into deep, painful sores. If you see a red bump or pus-filled bump on the skin that is worsening see your doctor right away.  Your doctor may need to obtain a culture of the infected skin for MRSA before starting antibiotics.  To prevent spread of infection to others, infected wounds, hands, and other exposed body areas should be kept clean and wounds should be covered during therapy. If your doctor prescribes antibiotics, be sure to take the full course. If you suspect a staph infection, contact Compassion Dermatology for a dermatologist in Southlake, TX.

For the treatment of impetigo, or other skin conditions, contact Compassion Dermatology to schedule an appointment with a dermatologist in Southlake, TX. We offer professional services in a relaxing atmosphere. Our dedicated dermatology practice and holistic approach help to ensure both your health and well being.

Dermatologist in Southlake, TX

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Treating Hair Loss

It is normal to lose about 50 to 100 hairs every day, but if you have thinning hair, or you see bald patches, you may be experiencing hair loss. While hair loss has no effect on your physical health, it can be devastating to your self-image and emotional well being. In the United States, billions of dollars are spent each year on hair loss treatments. Your dermatologist is an expert in a broad range of conditions, and specializes in diagnosing and treating diseases that affect hair, skin and nails. Contact Compassion Dermatology today to schedule an appointment with a dermatologist in Southlake, TX for your hair loss concerns.

The Causes

Alopecia is the medical term for hair loss, but there are a number of potential causes. It occurs in varying degrees from minor thinning to complete baldness. Some of the more common causes of hair loss include:

  • Hair loss related to pulling on the hair due to hair pieces, ponytails or tight braids, for example.
  • Women can experience hair loss after giving birth, due to falling estrogen levels. As your body readjusts, excessive shedding will stop.
  • Extreme stress can cause hair loss for several months after the event.
  • Androgenetic Alopecia can occur in both males and females due to hormonal and hereditary factors.
  • Health related hair loss can be due to illness, such as lupus, diabetes, thyroid disease, anemia and other diseases. In addition, major surgery and a high fever can result in hair loss. Blood work may be required to determine if your hair loss is health related.
  • Hair loss is common with menopause. It is often temporary, but after the age of 40 a woman’s hair will not be as thick as it was when she was younger.
  • Diet and nutrition can cause hair loss. When dieting, hair loss may occur after losing as little as 15 pounds. The condition typically resolves itself without any treatment.
  • Excessive ingestion of vitamin A can cause hair loss. Once the excess is stopped, hair will regrow.
  • A lack of adequate protein can cause hair loss. Eating more protein will stop the loss of hair in this situation.
  • A lack of iron can cause hair loss.
  • Poor nutrition due to bulimia and anorexia can cause hair loss.
  • Medical treatments, including some medications can cause hair loss. Medications that may cause hair loss include blood thinners, anti-hypertensives for high blood pressure, birth control pills, medications for arthritis, gout and heart conditions to name a few. When scheduling a consultation with our  dermatologist in Southlake, TX, please bring all your medications, including over-the-counter meds and “natural” products.  Some chemotherapy treatments and radiation treatments for cancer often cause hair loss. For most patients, the hair will grow back.
  • Shampooing your hair too frequently, hair dyes and brushing the hair excessively with 100 strokes or more a day can cause hair loss. The use of a blow dryer can cause hair to become brittle, breaking easily and causing hair to appear thinner.

Sudden hair loss is typically caused by illness, diet, medications and childbirth. Gradual hair loss that is more noticeable with the passing of the years may indicate hereditary hair loss.

When hair loss occurs, it is important to have the cause diagnosed in the event it is illness related. A dermatologist in Southlake, TX will examine your hair and scalp, and provide a diagnosis. A number of the forms of alopecia are temporary, and can be treated. Other types can lead to permanent baldness, but the loss can be slowed when treatment is administered early. Early treatments can result in a better prognosis.

When you visit a dermatologist in Southlake, TX, your doctor will ask questions related to your medical history, family history of alopecia, recent illnesses, medications you may be taking, and the hair products to use, and care you provide your hair. In addition, the doctor will also ask if hair loss is limited to the scalp or is generalized. In addition to a skilled evaluation, the tests your doctor orders may include microscopic examination of the hair, scalp biopsy, and blood tests.

The Treatment of Hair Loss

The treatment your dermatologist in Southlake, TX prescribes will be related to the underlying cause of your hair loss. Examples of potential treatments your doctor may order, include light therapy, corticosteroid injections, topical creams or even hair transplants, scalp flaps, scalp reduction, scalp expansion and more. Remember, an early diagnosis may cause a more successful outcome. Due to this, if your hair loss lasts longer than 2 or 3 months, schedule an appoint with our dermatologist in Southlake, TX.

The potential causes of hair loss are numerous. Once the cause of your hair loss is identified, your dermatologist in Southlake, TX can tell you what to expect. Some hair loss does not require treatment and will re-grow without any treatment. Treatment for hair loss can make you feel better, and improve your appearance. If hair loss concerns you, contact Compassion Dermatology to schedule a consultation with a dermatologist in Southlake, TX.

Dermatologist in Southlake, TX

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Botox Injections and Cosmetic Fillers

What is Botox?

Botox is the trade name of the toxin produced by Clostridium botulinum bacteria. It is used in small, controlled and diluted amounts as a safe, yet effective neurotoxin treatment in reducing wrinkles. Compassion Dermatology provides Botox treatments for qualifying candidates who want to improve their appearance. Botox can also be used as a preventative, preventing wrinkles from forming in areas prone to their forming. If you are considering Botox treatment, contact us today to schedule a consultation with a dermatologist in Southlake, TX.

How Botox Works

Botox targets specific nerve endings, preventing muscle contraction resulting in  softening the appearance of wrinkles, and allowing them to continue to fade over time. Its effects last approximately three to six months. However, some studies seem to indicate that Botox injections done over a long period of time, can result in a reduced frequency required.  Botox is an FDA approved treatment for wrinkles.

After Treatment

Temporary redness, swelling and/or pain at the injection site may occur, typically lasting no longer than a few hours. While not common, bruising may also occur in or around the treated area. Results should be visible from within a few days to a few weeks of treatment.

Will My Insurance Cover injections?

The use of a Botox treatment for wrinkles is a cosmetic procedure and therefore not covered by medical insurance plans.

How Botox May Help You

While Botox has a number of medical uses, it is best known for its use in reducing the appearance of wrinkles. The severity of lines on the forehead, creases around the eyes, mouth and between the brows, can be temporarily reduced with Botox treatment. Botox can also provide a slight lifting of the brow and reduce lines around the neck, providing you with a more youthful appearance. Best of all, it is a non-surgical alternative requiring mere minutes for treatment. With Botox treatment, you will not need to take days or weeks off from work as is typical with a surgical procedure. You can receive the treatment and return to work afterwards.

Considerations

Ensure you tell your doctor all medications you are taking, both prescription and over-the-counter. For example, bruising is more likely to occur at the injection site if you are taking aspirin or ibuprofen. These medications thin the blood and increase bleeding, and therefore bruising. Supplements should also be reported to your dermatologist in Southlake, TX during the initial consultation. Supplements include those considered natural,   and they can also thin the blood.

Are You a Candidate for Botox injections?

Not everyone is a great candidate for the Botox procedure. Women who are breastfeeding or pregnant, or may become pregnant, and those with neurological conditions should not receive Botox injections. Your dermatologist in Southlake, TX is the best source for determining the treatment options best for you.

In addition, Botox is not always the right treatment for every patient and wrinkle. For example, wrinkles caused by sun damage are not as responsive to Botox. There are a variety of treatments for different types of wrinkles, so schedule a full consultation before deciding whether Botox it is right for you. Compassion Dermatology has the expertise to ensure you are presented with the  best options for you. Call today for a consultation with a dermatologist in Southlake, TX.

For additional information about receiving Botox Injections, contact Compassion Dermatology today to schedule a consultation with a dermatologist in Southlake, TX.

Cosmetic Fillers

Cosmetic fillers are injections of material underneath the skin to make it appear fuller. By filling out the area injected, the appearance of wrinkles is reduced for a younger looking you.

While fillers have been around for decades, advances in the technology have assured newer materials are lasting longer, and some are even considered semi-permanent.  Youthful skin is supple and smooth due to collagen, hyaluronic acid and elastin. The three create an elastic framework that maintains smooth skin. Over time, the elasticity of skin is lost, resulting in wrinkles and sagging skin. Cosmetic fillers assist in filling the thinning framework lying beneath the skin. The skin becomes firmer, smoother and more youthful in appearance. Compassion Dermatology can assist you in achieving younger looking skin. Call today to schedule a consultation with a dermatologist in Southlake, TX.

Collagen is the best known of cosmetic fillers. In addition, it is available in both natural and synthetic products, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.

Bovine Collagen Fillers

Bovine collagen was approved in the 1980’s as a wrinkle treatment, and is still widely used. It provides an effective and  more budget friendly alternative to other fillers. Testing for an allergy to the product is administered prior to treatment. Bovine collagen filler typically requires injections two to four times each year to maintain the results.

Human Collagen Fillers

Human collagen has been available since 2002. Skin testing is not typically required, as it causes fewer allergic reactions than bovine collagen. Injections are typically required every three to six months. To receive additional information, contact our dermatologist in Southlake, TX.

Hyaluronic Acid Fillers

Hyaluronic acid is produced naturally in the skin, and as your skin ages less is produced. It is available in both a natural product and synthetic products. Results can last nine months or longer. Allergic reactions rarely occur.

Fat Injection Fillers

Fat injections use donor sites from the thighs, belly, or buttocks and inject it under the skin of the face, reducing wrinkles. By using your own tissue, allergic reactions do not occur. Results vary and the results can last a long time. Give us a call to schedule a consultation with a dermatologist in Southlake, TX.

Poly-L lactic Acid Fillers

When injected under the skin, poly-L lactic (PLLA) fillers stimulates your skin cells to produce new collagen. It has been used as a suture material for years, and is nontoxic.

PLLA is used to treat wrinkles, and is considered semi-permanent.
Compassion Dermatology offers a number of treatments for a more youthful you. Give us a call today to schedule a consultation with a dermatologist in Southlake, TX.

Melanoma | Dermatologist in Southlake, TX

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Melanoma is the most dangerous form of skin cancer, due to its likelihood of spreading to other parts of the body. While pediatric melanoma is rare, the rate of diagnoses is rising by approximately 2% each year, especially among those in the 15-19 year old category. A 2015 study published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology, lists unique genomic features for each of the three subtypes of pediatric melanoma. The study reveals evidence that UV exposure may be more closely  linked to the disease than previously thought. Contact Compassion Dermatology today, to schedule a appointment with an dermatologist in Southlake, TX.

There are three main categories of pediatric melanoma, including:

  • Congenital Melanocytic Nevus (CNM): A CNM is a large, pigmented mole or birthmark that is present at the time of birth. Approximately 5-10% of CNM will develop into melanoma.
  • Conventional Melanoma (CM): In the pediatric patient, CM is rarely diagnosed prior to puberty. Clinically, CM in younger patients shows evidence of UV-induced DNA damage and similar UV-induced mutations.
  • Spitzoid Melanoma (SM):Spitzoid Melanomas don’t typically adhere to the common guide to diagnose melanoma. They are often round in shape, uniform in color and nodular by nature. In addition, they typically lack genetic mutations.

Contact Compassion Dermatology today, to schedule an appointment with a dermatologist in Southlake, TX.

Risk Factors and Causes

While melanoma is the least common form of cancer overall in the U.S., it’s the most common form of skin cancer in children ages 15 to 19 years. The causes of conventional pediatric melanoma (CM) are similar to those of melanoma in adults. However, no identifiable cause has been linked to spitzoid melanoma (SM) or congenital melanocytic nevi (CNM), although UV ray exposure is suspected.

Risk factors for CM include:

  • Children with a fair complexion, light hair and freckles. However, the incidence of melanoma is increasing in children with darker pigmented skin, especially those under the age of 13 years.
  • Lengthy periods of sun exposure without proper use of an appropriate sunscreen.
  • Large black spots called melanocytic nevi present at birth.
  • Certain types of moles may develop into melanoma
  • Children who have previously been treated for melanoma are at an increased risk of recurrence.

The Symptoms

Recognizing potential melanoma includes observing the size, shape and color.  When you suspect melanoma, Contact Compassion Dermatology to schedule an appointment with a dermatologist in Southlake, TX. The following is a standard guide:

Adults

The “A, B, C, D, E” guide is used for adult melanoma.

  • Asymmetry includes differences in appearance from one side to the other
  • Border will be ragged, blurred, irregular in shape
  • Color is uneven and includes shades of black, blue-black, brown or tan
  • Diameter indicates changes in the size of the mole
  • Evolving refers to the changes in the mole over a few weeks or months

Children

However, this guide may not be suitable for pediatric melanoma, and can include the following:

  • A mole that changes and grows
  • A large mole or an odd shaped mole
  • A “bump” that appears pale or red
  • A mole or bump that itches or bleeds

If you recognize any of these signs contact Compassion Dermatology today to schedule an appointment with a dermatologist in Southlake, TX. When diagnosed at an early stage, typically only the top layer of skin is affected. Out of more than 76,000 cases of melanoma diagnosed each year, approximately 48,000 are diagnosed in the early stage and are highly treatable.

Children who have been diagnosed with melanoma skin cancer will need to make lifelong skin inspections. Follow-ups with an oncologist and using skin damage prevention methods is essential. It’s never too soon to protect your child’s skin from the harmful UV rays of the sun. Contact Compassion Dermatology today, to schedule an appointment with a dermatologist in Southlake, TX.

Prevention Tips

An infant’s skin is especially vulnerable to sun damage due to a lack of melanin. For this reason, keep infants 6 months old and younger out of the sun. You can’t use sunscreen on their delicate skin.

Melanoma is far more common between the ages of 10 and 20 years than it is between birth and 10 years. Ensuring  your child is protected from the suns cancer causing UV rays will help prevent skin cancer throughout life. Contact us today, to schedule an appointment with a dermatologist in Southlake, TX.

How to Protect Your Child Over 6 Months of Age

Broad-spectrum sunscreen  is the next generation in skin protection. It is designed to provide protection against both UVA and UVB rays. If you have questions regarding the appropriate sunscreen for your child, contact your Contact Compassion Dermatology today, to schedule an appointment with a dermatologist in Southlake, TX.

  1. Select a sunscreen with a SPF of 30 to 50, and reapply every 2 to 4 hours. However, if your child is sweating or swimming apply it more frequently.
  2. Wearing lightweight clothing such as long-sleeved tops and pants is an effective way to prevent sun damage.
  3. Hats & sunglasses provide protection against the sun.
  4. The sun is strongest between 10 am and 4 pm, so limit your child’s time outdoors during those hours.

SPF Explained

The SPF factor indicates how effective a sunscreen is in preventing sunburn caused by UVB rays. For the majority of people an SPF of 15 is sufficient. However, those who are very fair skinned, have lupus or skin cancer, should consider the use of an SPF of 30 or higher. If you have questions, contact your dermatologist in Southlake, TX.

Taking protective steps with your child’s skin will help to instill the habit as they grow older. It’s never to late to start in goal of preventing melanoma. Contact Compassion Dermatology today, to schedule an appointment with a dermatologist in Southlake, TX. We offer professional services in a relaxing environment. Our advanced dermatology practice and holistic approach helps to ensure your health and well being.