Sunscreen Myths | Insight from Your Southlake, TX Dermatologist

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Over 9,500 people are diagnosed with skin cancer every year in the U.S. One of the best protection against skin cancer is by covering up in the sun and regularly applying sunscreen. Unfortunately, there are dozens of sunscreens to choose from and everyone has a different idea about what’s good for your skin. Skip looking for answers in magazines and contact your dermatologist.

You Don’t Need Sunscreen on Cloudy Days

False. Whether the sun is visible or hiding behind clouds, the ultraviolet A and B rays (UVA and UVB) still penetrate the clouds and your skin. Yes, the clouds reduce some, but only about 25% and if you go outside without protection, 75% is still infiltrating your skin. The best answer, according to Southlake, TX, dermatologists is to never skip or skimp on the sunscreen when heading outside.

Additionally, make sure to add protective clothing, including sunglasses to protect your eyes and a hat to protect your scalp. Sun can penetrate your skin, which is why you’ve probably felt a little sore after a day in the sun without that hat. If you’re concerned about sun damage to your scalp, make an appointment with your local dermatologist.

Having a Tan Protects Your Skin Enough

False again. In fact, this one is scary because that tan is your body’s response to UVA and UVB exposure. The sun has already damaged your skin and by heading outside again without sunscreen, it’s going to increase the damage and your risk of developing skin cancer. Additionally, some people believe that heading to a tanning booth for a baseline tan can add another layer of protection. Instead of helping your skin, taking these steps can cause additional harm. If you have questions about tanning booths and their safety, speak with a dermatologist about the damage these devices can do to your skin.

Naturally Dark Skin Protects Your Skin from the Sun

The pigment of your skin doesn’t protect you from cancer. Whether you have a light or dark complexion, the only way to prevent skin damage and cancer is to cover it up, both with a quality sunscreen and with clothing.

You Don’t Need to Put Sunscreen Everywhere 

Many people believe that you can’t get skin cancer in areas that aren’t exposed to the sun. However, this is another false statement. If you notice an area of your body with an unusual rash, even if it’s somewhere you’d never think about spreading a layer of sunscreen, such as your armpits or the soles of your feet, contact your Southlake, TXdermatologist for the next available appointment. The most successful path to stopping cancer is a prompt diagnosis and beginning treatment as soon as possible.

Swimming or Water Protects You from the Sun

Actually, the opposite is true. UVB rays penetrate water, which means even if you’re up to your neck in a pool, lake, or the ocean, you’re still being exposed. Plus, water reflects sunlight, increasing your exposure to UV rays. Always apply sunscreen before and after getting out of the water, even if the brand is water-resistant. For questions about water-resistant sunscreens and how effective they are, speak with your Southlake, TXdermatologist.

You Can’t Tan with Sunscreen

Even if you apply sunscreen regularly throughout the day, the sun will still penetrate your skin and leave a tan. But, consider applying a fake, spray tan instead. It looks great, isn’t painful, is safe, and best of all, a spray tan won’t increase your chances of skin cancer (as long as you continue to wear a sunscreen with a high SPF.)

If you’re concerned about the safety of spray tanning products, make an appointment to speak with a Southlake, TXdermatologist. He or she can recommend products that are safe and help you find the right sunscreen and other skincare products to protect and care for your skin. For the best results, look for a sunscreen that includes all of these ingredients for full-spectrum protection.

All Sunscreens Are the Same

Just like the prices vary, the ingredients, effectiveness, and safety of the products are different. Always check the active ingredients before purchasing or applying sunscreen. For example, titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, and ecamsule filter out UVA and UVB rays while avobenzone blocks the sun. Additionally, these come in different SPFs, varying from 15 to over 50. For best results, always use the highest SPF.

You Don’t Need to Reapply Sunscreen

This is a big mistake people make that causes sunburns and can lead to skin cancer. Always reapply sunscreen every two to four hours and more often if you’re in the water or competing in sports or other activities that increase sweat and reduce the effectiveness of the sunscreen. No matter how high the SPF is, there are no sunscreens that last all day long. Also, always check the expiration date on your products. If it’s past the date, toss it and buy a new bottle. For questions about the safety of sun care and sunscreens, contact your dermatologist for a consultation.

If You Always Wear Sunscreen, You’ll Never Get Skin Cancer

Covering up and wearing sunscreen is the best way to prevent skin cancer. However, nothing is 100% full proof. However, you can reduce the chances of developing skin cancer by wearing sunglasses, loose protective clothing, and hats when you’re in the sun and staying out of the sun during peak hours. If you can avoid outdoor activities, even on cloudy days between 10 am and 1 pm, it’s possible to reduce exposure and your risk of skin cancer.

However, you also need to consider other factors, such as family history. If you are concerned about your chances of developing skin cancer, it’s important to speak to your primary care doctor and keep regular checkups with your dermatologist.

The best place to get help with sunscreen facts is at Compassion Dermatology, your Southlake, TX dermatologist. If you have any questions or concerns about skin care, schedule an appointment today.


Why Should You Consider PRP Injections? | Tips from Your Trusted Southlake, TX Dermatology Professional

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Male or female-pattern baldness affects approximately 50 million men and 30 million women in the United States. Hair loss usually begins after age 50, but it can occur much earlier. Self-worth does not revolve around physical appearance, but baldness can negatively affect emotional and mental health.

Men and women have reported depression and discomfort during social interaction due to hair loss and baldness. Platelet-rich plasma, or PRP, is a fairly new treatment for baldness and thinning hair. The treatment is very similar to microneedling with PRP to rejuvenate skin. PRP injections are available in Southlake, TX, and the procedure is rapidly gaining popularity throughout the field of dermatology.

Is PRP Safe?

PRP was originally developed to enhance healing for people recovering from injuries or reconstructive surgery. It accelerates healing in muscles, tendons, and joints. The FDA evaluates medications and treatments in the United States to ensure safety and effectiveness before they are available to the public. PRP is used ‘off-label’ to reverse hair loss. “Off-label” means the FDA verified PRP for its original use and determined that benefits outweigh the risks when it is used for another purpose. Doctors in Southlake, TX, can recommend platelet-rich plasma treatments if they believe it will help their patients.

A determination that “benefits outweigh the risks” sounds slightly ominous, but the criteria applies to all medications and treatments. An ‘off-label’ treatment with negative side effects may be used for a serious illness because the illness is a greater threat to health and quality of life. Baldness is not life-threatening, and it does not significantly affect daily life. Treatments with potentially serious side effects are not approved to treat hair loss in dermatology.

PRP injections are very safe. There is no risk of an immune response because the plasma comes from the client’s blood. Infection is the most serious potential risk. Choose a reputable dermatology clinic with knowledgeable staff in Southlake, TX, to minimize risk of infection.

The two main components in blood are red blood cells and plasma. Plasma contains white blood cells, or WBCs, and platelets that are rich in growth factors that promote healing. The concentration of growth factors, platelets, WBCs, and proteins in platelet-rich plasma is five to ten times higher than the concentration in blood.

The platelets and growth factors also encourage vascularization, the growth of new blood vessels, around injection sites. Additional blood vessels improve circulation in the scalp. Vascularization promotes hair growth because follicles have more access to oxygen and other nutrients in the blood.

PRP Injection Procedure

Platelet-rich plasma used in dermatology is derived from the client’s blood. Medical staff draw blood from the arm and place the tube of blood in a centrifuge. The centrifuge rapidly spins the tube until red blood cells and plasma separate into two distinct layers.

A doctor at a dermatology clinic injects PRP plasma into the scalp at half-inch increments. The procedure takes approximately 20 minutes from start to finish. Most people experience very little pain and feel light pressure from the injections. Anesthesia is not necessary, but cool air or ice minimizes discomfort.

PRP injections are administered once a month for three or four months, then drop to one procedure every three to six months. Clients usually notice less hair shedding within two to three months. Hair regeneration typically begins during the third or fourth month.

Side Effects and Aftercare

Most side effects of PRP treatment are very mild. Scalp tenderness after the procedure is common. Sometimes temporary bleeding occurs at injection sites, but bleeding usually stops before clients leave the dermatology clinic. Other side effects include swelling, mild pain around injection sites, and itching.

Clients can take over-the-counter medications to relieve mild pain after PRP injections. There are no limitations on daily activities after the procedure. A warm shower soothes lingering discomfort and enhances blood circulation in the scalp.

Avoid coloring, blow-drying, processing, or applying hair care products for one or two days to avoid irritating the injection sites. Clients taking anticoagulant medication should ask a doctor about taking the medication on the day of the procedure.

How Well Does PRP Work?

Numerous studies have confirmed the effectiveness of PRP injections for stopping and reversing hair loss. A review of research during 2019 in the journal ‘Aesthetic Plastic Surgery’ found that PRP injections reduced hair loss and increased hair density and diameter of individual strands. A systematic review in the ‘Dermatologic Surgery Trusted Source’ looked at results of 19 studies. Reviewers found that most studies reported successful hair regeneration in people with androgenetic alopecia.

Greek researchers at Democritus University monitored 20 people treated with PRP and found that hair volume increased significantly. PRP is not a permanent cure. Clients need to schedule maintenance treatment. Doctors in dermatology have not settled on a standardized schedule for long-term maintenance treatment yet. Many dermatology clinics recommend PRP injections every 3 months after hair loss has stopped and new growth is stabilized.

Who Can Benefit from PRP Treatment?

Men and women with androgenetic alopecia are great candidates for PRP treatment in Southlake, TX. Androgenetic alopecia is a genetic condition that causes shrinking in hair follicles. It is referred to as male pattern baldness in men.

Damaged follicles produce less hair overall, and the hair that does grow is thin and fragile. PRP injections are frequently used in dermatology to reverse this condition. Concentrated growth factors in PRP encourage healing and tissue repair in shrunken follicles.

Anyone experiencing hair loss can consult Compassionate Dermatology in Southlake, TX. Helpful and friendly professionals work with clients to figure out why they are losing hair. PRP injections can be used in combination with other interventions, such as nutrition therapy or medication, to keep hair healthy and vibrant.


Common Skin Problems Your Dermatologist Can Help | Southlake, TX

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Healthy skin is not just a matter of personal appearance. The skin is a very important part of the immune system. It is the barrier protecting the rest of the body from pathogens, allergens, and pollution in the environment. Skincare routines need to remove dirt, toxins, sweat, oil, and everything else that accumulates on skin throughout the day in Southlake, TX.

The tricky part is removing all of the substances that build up on skin without harming delicate cells or disturbing the skin’s natural pH balance. An appointment with a dermatologist is a great way to establish a healthy skin care routine and identify any potential problems.

Unhealthy Skin Care Habits

Many factors affect skin health and increase the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Skin ages prematurely as the effects of poor skincare build up over time. Going to bed without removing cosmetics is a common habit that damages skin.

Cosmetics clog pores and irritate skin when they remain on the face for hours overnight. They also trap dirt, bacteria, and other contaminants against the skin. Mascara and other eye makeup can scratch the eyes during sleep and create a breeding ground for bacteria that cause eye infections. Remove makeup with a gentle cleanser before bed, even if a shower or bath is out of the question until morning.

Hot showers and baths irritate skin and exacerbate any existing skin conditions. The hot water removes natural oils that protect skin and keep it hydrated. Red skin is a clear indication that water is too hot. Skin develops red coloration in hot water because epidermal cells are damaged and inflamed.

Keep showers short, and make sure the water temperature is warm and comfortable instead of hot. Apply a high quality moisturizer immediately after bathing to lock moisture into skin cells. A knowledgeable dermatologist can recommend appropriate cleansers and moisturizers to help damaged skin cells heal and prevent damage in the future.

Each skin type requires different care. People with oily skin often believe that scrubbing their faces with strong soaps is beneficial. They are actually making the problem worse. Friction from scrubbing damages skin and lets irritants from the soap into exposed areas. Irritation triggers even more oil production because the skin is trying to protect itself.

Never scrub skin forcefully with a washcloth, loofah, or other bathing accessories. Use an oil-free cleanser with warm water and rub a soft cloth gently in circular motions. Excessive oil production could be a response to an underlying problem. Consult a dermatologist if skin seems to produce more oil than usual over an extended period.

People with dry skin in Southlake, TX, often experience flaking, irritation, and dull or discolored areas on the face. Heavy cleansers and moisturizers are not always effective remedies. The first step in relieving dry skin is keeping the body hydrated. Dry skin may be a sign of consistent dehydration or a nutritional deficiency. A dermatologist helps clients identify causes of dry skin and their corresponding solutions.

Sun Exposure

Exposure to sunlight poses a significant threat to overall health. The sun’s ultraviolet rays damage skin cells and increase the risk of melanoma and other skin cancers. Melanin in the epidermis, or the skin’s outer layer, provides protection from UV radiation, but this protection can be overwhelmed with consistent exposure. A sun burn occurs when UV radiation damages or kills skin cells.

Apply sunscreen at least 30 minutes before going outside in Southlake, TX. Visit a dermatologist for a skin evaluation on a regular basis to detect early warning signs of possible cancer or damage to the skin in general. Medical professionals can recommend appropriate sunscreen.

Consult a Dermatologist for Acne

Acne is one of the most commonly reported skin care problems. Most acne outbreaks occur on the face, back, and shoulders, although they can appear anywhere on the body. Some myths concerning the causes of acne still persist. Common myths claim that chocolate, greasy food, or sugary snacks cause acne. Refusing to eat certain foods will not have any effect on acne. A dermatologist can explain the real causes of acne and help client’s separate myths from facts.

There are several causes of acne. Sebaceous glands produce a slightly oily substance called sebum that protects skin cells and retains moisture. Acne, including ‘whiteheads’ and ‘blackheads,’ occurs when blocked pores in the skin accumulate sebum, dead skin cells, and contaminants from the air and environment.

Sweat and dirt can clog pores after outdoor activities during warm days in Southlake, TX. Blocked hair follicles can also fill up with hair, oil, and dirt. Sometimes blocked follicles lead to ingrown hair. Infection occurs when bacteria enter blocked pores and hair follicles.

Cystic acne is a painful condition characterized by swelling and inflammation. Sometimes individual blemishes in cystic acne outbreaks are called ‘blind pimples’ because the sore, infected ‘pimple’ seems to be under the skin. “Popping” cystic acne blemishes is rarely beneficial.

Cystic acne is almost always caused by a bacterial infection. The infection can spread deep into the dermis, or the layers of skin underneath epidermal cells. Successfully ‘popping’ a blemish releases infectious fluid and spreads the bacteria to new areas.

Squeezing or poking cystic acne can also damages tissues and generate scar tissue because significant force is necessary to expel fluid from deep layers of the dermis. A needle or other sharp object damages tissue and creates a wound in the epidermis that lets more bacteria reach the infected area.

Mild cleansers are best during an active acne breakout. Use caution with over-the-counter acne relief products. Many of these products contain harsh chemicals or exfoliators that damage sensitive skin. Consult a dermatologist for help with cystic acne and any type of acne that occurs repeatedly.

An appointment with Compassion Dermatology in the Southlake, TX area, when acne breakouts first appear can save clients a great deal of time and aggravation. Many people with acne notice improvement within days of receiving appropriate medications from a dermatologist.


How Dermatology Defeats Bad Skin | Southlake, TX

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When we think of our most important organs, we often think of our hearts or our brains. However, the skin is our largest organ. As a matter of fact, most of us are carrying around eight pounds of it, and if Southlake, TX, is like the majority of the country, less than a tenth of its citizens has bothered to seek professional help for their skin.

With the amount of information freely available on the Internet, it can be easy to take rumors as truth and incorporate them into our daily routines. While many people turn to expensive supplements, trendy skincare products, avoiding sunlight and chocolate, and other myth-based practices, dermatologists practice a specific branch of medicine that deals with cosmetic problems and diseases of the skin, making it a much more reliable solution and an ally in the fight against bad skin.

1.  Dermatology vs the Sun

Like most of the state, Southlake, TX, is characterized by unbearably hot summers, with temperatures hovering above 100 degrees for several months at a time. This type of weather dehydrates the skin and creates a buildup of oil, dead skin cells, and sweat, which also happen to be the equation for acne.

Most treatments involve a complete skin evaluation, including a thorough cancer screening and an inspection of nails and hair. This allows doctors to discover any possible medical conditions or dangerous cancers that require treatment. If you experience constant rashes or itchy skin, you should consider visiting your local dermatologist.

2. Dermatology vs Acne

Three in every four people have experienced some form of acne. It’s not commonly thought of as a dangerous or life-threatening condition, but it can make us feel unattractive or self-conscious, and the scars it leaves behind are permanent. Although our diet and climate play a role in our tendency to develop acne, so does anxiety, genetics, makeup, and the number of times we or our loved ones touch our faces each day.

In contrast to popular belief, you don’t have to have severe acne to see a dermatologist. Dermatology offers solutions to individuals who experience recurring breakouts, painful cysts, and conditions brought on by new medication.

3.  Dermatology vs Humidity

Southlake, TX has a humid subtropical climate, meaning the summers are long and wet, often punctuated by monsoons and daily thunderstorms. The increased moisture in the air causes your pores to expand, allowing them to absorb more oil and dirt than usual. A condition commonly treated by dermatology is called “tropical acne” because of the breakouts, allergic reactions, and other skin conditions associated with this subtropical climate.

Dermatologists clear pores with a device that provides a pulsed light laser to kill bacteria and a suction mechanism to remove dead skin cells and other debris from clogged pores. Most doctors recommend the regular use of mechanical exfoliation with microdermabrasion and chemical exfoliation with salicylic or glycolic acid. Your local dermatologist can determine the best treatment for you.

4.  Dermatology vs Psoriasis

Psoriasis causes patches of itchy red skin and silvery scales, typically on the knees, scalp, lower back, and face. Recent studies have shown that, while a person cannot cure the symptoms of the condition, medical treatment can reduce the environmental triggers that cause the symptoms to flare.

Your local Southlake, TX, dermatologist provides an assortment of solutions, ranging from topical to injected medications. Systemic therapies offer biologics, which are protein-based drugs that reduce the cells and immune proteins that cause psoriasis. Phototherapy is another popular procedure. It involves exposing the skin to ultraviolet light to reduce irritation and slow cell growth. In order to suppress immune activity, your doctor will determine whether you need psoralen pills to make your skin more sensitive to light.

5.  Dermatology vs Scars

Whether from acne, injury, or surgery, many individuals in Southlake, TX, are seeking medical assistance to make their scars less visible. Skincare specialists handle all types of scars, including contracture, keloid, and hypertrophic scars. Treatments generally consist of topical products, laser treatments, or surgical revisions.

Chemical peels are the simplest option. A solution is placed over the skin and, when peeled away, takes the top layers with it, allowing smoother and younger-looking skin to grow in its place.

Laser treatment is a great technique for removing surgical scars. The noninvasive procedure uses concentrated light to break down scar tissue, allowing your skin to proceed with its natural healing process.

Scar revision uses tissue expansion, skin grafts, and dermal filler to minimize and alter scars to blend in with the surrounding skin’s color and texture.

6.  Dermatology vs Cancer

Cancer is scary. Just reading the word can make your body suddenly tense. And with good reason; it’s dangerous and it’s everywhere. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, meaning that one in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime. Just to put that in perspective, that’s 9,500 people being diagnosed with skin cancer every day.

A dermatologist makes recommendations specifically tailored to you, based on your history of sun exposure, skin type, family history, and other individual risk factors. Doctors commonly use noninvasive treatment methods like cryosurgery, which destroys growths on the skin’s surface by freezing them with liquid nitrogen. Mohs surgery, a technique that involves a dermatologist removing the cancerous tissue in layers, is also a common method for treating skin cancer.

Review and Conclusion

Our skin may be the most sensitive and exposed organ on our bodies. It’s exposed to the environment’s extreme range of pollution, humidity, heat, and ultraviolet rays. Mentioned above are just six ways seeking professional dermatological can help you protect your skin, heal your scars, and treat medical conditions. Visit Compassion Dermatology to learn even more about how to treat your skin right.