8 Signs You Need To See A Dermatologist | Southlake, TX

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Your skin is your largest organ. It is your body’s first protection against everything in the outside world. We all want clear, healthy skin, but unfortunately, skin issues can arise. Some skin issues are unsightly, some are uncomfortable, and some are deadly. It is essential that you can recognize the signs that you need to schedule an appointment with a dermatologist. Many people will use websites like WebMD to diagnose themselves, but this is a mistake. If you are having a skin issue, it will take the knowledge of a licensed dermatologist to determine the cause of the problem so that it can be properly treated.

#1 A Constant Itch

An occasional itch is not uncommon, and it is not something to be concerned about. However, if your skin is itchy all the time, you should schedule an appointment with a dermatology expert in Southlake, TX. There are several issues that could be causing your itchy skin, and in many cases, over-the-counter medications aren’t effective. A dermatology expert can assess your condition and prescribe the best prescription medication to treat the problem.

#2 Painful Sunburns

The sun’s UV rays are very powerful and can do a number on your skin. You should never leave the house on a sunny day without sunscreen. However, if you forget and accidentally get too much sun, you can get a sunburn. Sunburns hurt, but if you have a very painful sunburn, you should schedule an appointment with a professional. There is a chance that you have developed an infection and potential scarring. If you don’t have the problem treated immediately, things will only get worse.

#3 Unexplained Redness

If you notice unexplained red patches on your skin, you should see a dermatologist immediately. The problem could be a simple irritation or heat rash, but it could be something more serious like psoriasis. Psoriasis is an immune system condition that causes redness and flaking of the skin, nails, and joints. This condition is often inherited and is triggered by stress, cold weather, and infections. If you don’t get proper treatment, psoriasis can lead to painful arthritis in the future. There is no guarantee that your issue is due to psoriasis, but you won’t know until you see a dermatology expert. Whether you do have psoriasis or any other skin condition, it should be treated by a dermatology expert.

#4 Acne

Acne is more serious than some people think. Severe acne can have a serious effect on your self-esteem. Also, if it isn’t treated properly, acne can leave scars and permanent marks on your skin. There are plenty of over-the-counter acne remedies available; however, most of these products aren’t strong enough to treat severe acne.

When you see a dermatologist, they can examine your skin to determine the best prescription-strength medication to clean up your skin as quickly and safely as possible. Your skin is the first thing that people notice about you, and if you want it to be clear and acne-free, it is best to be treated by a dermatologist.

#5 A Changing Mole

It is not uncommon to have a mole on your skin. Most moles are harmless and never need to be treated. However, if you have a mole that has changed in color or size, you should schedule an appointment with a dermatologist. The same is true if the mole is bleeding, scabbing, itching, or painful.

A changing mole could be a sign of cancer, which needs to be checked right away. The longer you wait, the harder it will be to treat cancer effectively.

#6 Embarrassing Scars On Your Body

Some people are able to embrace their scars; however, very noticeable scars can cause you to be self-conscious. Old scars are there for life; however, if you have new scars on your body that are still red, a dermatology expert might be able to help. There are topical treatments, peels, and laser procedures to help reduce the scars’ appearance, making you feel better about yourself.

#7 Brown Spots On The Skin

Brown spots on the skin could be due to sun damage or age. Hormonal balances can also cause them. Brown spots are unsightly and often get darker around the mouth and nose. If you have new brown spots on your skin that are causing you to feel self-conscious, a dermatology expert can help. They will first determine the source of the brown spots. If the dermatologist determines that it is due to aging, they can recommend bleaching products or laser treatments. If they suspect that the condition is due to a hormone imbalance, they will send you to your primary care physician to test for a hormonal imbalance or change your current birth control. If the brown spots on your skin are making you feel self-conscious, a dermatology expert can help.

#8 A Red, Itchy Scalp

A red, itchy scalp can be annoying and painful at times. Most people with this condition suspect that the problem is due to dandruff, but there could be an underlying skin condition that is causing these symptoms. A dermatologist can examine your scalp to determine the cause of the problem so it can be treated.

Why Choose Compassion Dermatology?

If you are having skin issues, schedule an appointment with Compassion Dermatology in Southlake, TX. If you aren’t sure what to expect when you schedule an appointment, it is all in the name, Compassion. We understand that your skin issues have been difficult for you, and we will treat you with compassion. We will perform a complete evaluation to determine the source of your problem and do whatever necessary to treat your condition.

Our dermatologists are members of the American Academy of Dermatology and are certified by the American Board of Dermatology. This should give you peace of mind that we know our stuff and can handle any skin issue that you have.

If you are having a skin issue and want to be treated by the best in the business, give us a call today to schedule an appointment.

What To Look For In A Compassionate Dermatologist | Southlake, TX

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Self-care involves taking care of all parts of your body, including the skin. It involves a rigorous routine that fluctuates with the different seasons. Known as the body’s largest organ, your skin responds to stress, diet, and environmental factors. If you’ve noticed a change in how it looks and feels, it’s time to seek the help of a skilled professional known as a dermatologist.

If you’ve never visited a skin doctor before, don’t worry. There’s nothing to be afraid of today! Like any other medical professional you visit, a doctor of dermatology is available to help you overcome health challenges that cause your skin to react poorly. They get to the root of the problem so that you have long-lasting results. When looking for a skin doctor to work with, they should possess some characteristics that indicate you’ve hired the right expert in the industry to assist you.

The Best Dermatologists Do Things Differently

An excellent dermatologist has a track record of success that you can view online. They are well-loved by the community with patients who support their professionalism with the glowing reviews they write about the medical professional. The more time you spend researching a dermatologic practice, the more you find out how appreciated it is by the people that visit it regularly.

Here is what to look for in a compassionate dermatologist in Southlake, TX:

  • A dermatologist that is open to helping new patients. Getting the assistance that you need right away is imperative. If you’ve never worked with a professional in the area before, you’ll want to know that the doctor accepts new patients. That way, you’re not wasting your time by calling them and setting up an appointment. You’re aware that the professional can or cannot help you, so you’re able to move on to another option quickly. Getting an appointment scheduled is the first step in getting your skin problem addressed quickly and successfully. Once you’ve done that, you can sit back, relax, and know that you’ll get favorable results from the treatment plan developed by the doctor of dermatology for you.

 

  • Someone who takes your concerns seriously. The dermatologist that you choose to work with listens to you intently. They get to know your needs and worries by having open communication with you during your initial visit. The doctor takes a look at your skin and gives you a general assessment. Once you’ve had time to discuss potential treatment options and outcomes, you get to decide which option works best for you based on your needs. The dermatology expert always puts your needs first and goes out of their way to make sure that you feel informed and confident in the suggestions they’ve made for you. Once you do, you’ll want to use the medical professional’s services exclusively because of how good they make you feel about yourself and your appearance.

 

  • A professional well-versed in dealing with various skin issues. The longer a dermatologist has been practicing, the more experience they have working with people with different skin types. If you want to ensure that you get the best help possible, learn more about a skin doctor’s experience. Take a look at their website and get to know which credentials they have today. Ask questions about how long they’ve been offering services to the public. The more you get to know the dermatology doctor and their practice, the easier you’ll find it is to book an appointment with them. You’ll feel confident in the professional’s ability to assist you with your needs and provide you with the help that you deserve with your skin.

 

  • An expert that gets to know you as a person and comes up with a personal treatment plan that is easy to follow and results-driven. The right dermatologic practice treats you with respect as a valued customer. They go the extra mile to ensure your satisfaction and make sure that they meet your needs fully. The professional skin doctor is available to answer your questions and provide you with instructions that help you improve your skin’s quality and appearance. If a surgical procedure is necessary, they mentally and physically prepare you for it by giving you insight into what occurs during the process.

A compassionate dermatologist puts your needs first. They go out of their way to make sure that you’re happy with the treatment options they provide to you. The doctor schedules a follow-up visit to see how well your skin responds to the medication or procedure they initially recommended. That way, you can heal quickly and feel confident going out in public once again.

The right professional is one that you can envision yourself coming back to whenever you need help with your skin. You trust them to take good care of you and to listen to your needs as you communicate them to the dermatologist. You reach out to the clinic and get an instant response about the appointment you want to set up. Never do you feel like you’re being ignored or neglected by the staff because they go above and beyond the call of duty to make you feel comfortable and welcomed.

Who to Contact When You Experience Persistent Skin Problems

Compassion Dermatology is the place where Southlake, TX residents feel right at home. We provide a warm, welcoming environment for our patients to spend time in today. If you need to see a skin doctor for any reason, call 817-380-5911 with your request for assistance today. As soon as we receive your information, we’ll get you to put it into our schedule for an appointment.

Having a professional skin doctor take a look at your skin is something we highly recommend. They can diagnose the issue and come up with a custom treatment plan that benefits you. You no longer have to hide your skin because of breakouts or scarring. Let us know your situation to have a complete picture of your skin problems and get them resolved right away.

Does Cold Weather Affect Skin? A Dermatologist Can Help | Southlake, TX

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Winter weather in Southlake, TX, often brings cold, dry conditions that present a challenge for our skin. Heaters generally blow dry air that irritates skin indoors, while cold air and wind irritate skin outside. People with pre-existing skin conditions may see exacerbated symptoms during colder months.

Regular skincare routines may not be entirely effective during cold weather. Freezing temperatures outdoors are usually countered by very warm indoor environments, and moving between the two extremes puts a great deal of stress on our skin. Schedule an appointment with a dermatologist if your skin needs extra care during cold snaps.

Winter Rash

Although this may seem odd, skin loses moisture content faster in cold weather than during hot summer months. The outer layer of skin consists of dead skin cells and oil. Low humidity, strong winds, and low temperatures can damage the outer layer of the epidermis, which leaves underlying layers unprotected.

Hot showers can also disrupt the natural oils necessary for moisture retention. Excessively dry skin often develops patches of irritation described as a winter rash. Winter rash is very common in cold climates. People are more likely to develop winter rash if they have a history of other skin conditions, such as eczema, rosacea, dermatitis, sensitive skin, or allergies. Tell your https://compassiondermatology.com/ about any previous acute or chronic skin conditions.

A winter rash can appear anywhere, but it usually affects the hands, arms, or legs. Your dermatologist may diagnose winter rash through a combination of medical history, physical examination, and a process of elimination to rule out allergies. Common symptoms include:

  • redness
  • swelling
  • flaky skin
  • sensitive skin
  • small raised bumps
  • blisters

Skin Conditions Aggravated by Cold Weather

Seborrheic Dermatitis

Seborrheic dermatitis is characterized by a reddened scalp and loose flakes of dry skin resembling dandruff. Although dandruff only occurs on the scalp, seborrheic dermatitis can occur on any part of the body with hair. Cold, dry weather aggravates this condition and may increase flaking.

Raynaud’s Disease

Raynaud’s disease affects tiny arteries that carry blood to the skin. The arteries narrow and restrict blood flow. The skin on the fingers and toes feel numb and cold due to inadequate circulation. As the disease progresses, fingers and toes change color and sharp, stinging pain may occur. Call a dermatologist if you experience any of these symptoms after exposure to cold air.

Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic condition with sporadic flare-ups that last weeks or months in between periods of remission. Skin cells multiply approximately 10 times faster than normal during a flare-up. Excess cells die and create patches of raised red plaques of scaly or flaky skin.

The most common sites of psoriasis are the elbows, trunk, knees, and scalp. Exposure to sunlight may relieve psoriasis symptoms to some extent. A dermatologist can use phototherapy units to direct specific wavelengths of light to manage psoriasis as well. Reduced sunlight in Southlake, TX, during winter months, can trigger psoriasis flare-ups.

Eczema

Eczema appears as red, irritated skin with small bumps. The affected area is usually uncomfortable and itchy. Try not to scratch irritated areas. Scratching can break the skin and lead to bleeding or infection. Many say there isn’t any permanent cure for eczema, but a dermatologist can help you manage the condition and take steps toward healthier skin. Flare-ups are more common during colder months because of rapid temperature changes between indoor and outdoor environments. Keeping indoor temperatures as low as possible may reduce the frequency and severity of flare-ups, but this isn’t always practical.

Protect Your Skin

Avoiding cold, dry air is the best way to avoid worsening skin conditions, winter rash, and other cold-related effects. This is not realistic for most people, but your dermatologist can help you keep your skin healthy during cold snaps.

UV Rays

The thought of sunburn in cold weather may not be obvious, but ultraviolet rays are a risk in all seasons. The Skin Cancer Foundation states that snow reflects up to 80% of UV light. You may be exposed to more UV rays during the winter months because reflected rays hit twice. Winter clothing often covers most of our bodies, especially while wearing mittens or gloves, but our faces aren’t usually covered. Ask your dermatologist if sunblock is necessary during your daily routine.

UV rays are stronger at high altitudes, so participating in winter sports may require extra precautions. Many people wear thermal face masks to protect themselves from outdoor temperatures during outdoor sports. Face masks protect skin from UV rays as well.

Moisturizer

Moisturizers are the most important tool for protecting skin in cold weather. A high-quality moisturizer locks water content into your skin. Apply moisturizer to your hands, face, and other exposed areas several times per day. Make sure you apply moisturizer after washing your hands or face. Petroleum jelly creates an excellent barrier over your skin to retain moisture. You can try petroleum substitute products if petroleum jelly itself is too greasy, heavy, or uncomfortable.

Natural Oils

Natural oils are getting quite a bit of attention in the field of health and beauty products. Common oils such as olive, coconut, and argan oil, can moisturize and soothe dry skin. Vegetable shortening was once used as a folk remedy. Shortening is solid at room temperature. It may moisturize and protect the skin, but shortening is so thick it can only be used before bed.

Oils can trigger an allergic reaction, such as contact dermatitis, even if you’ve never had a problem with the same oils in your diet. A dermatologist can administer allergy skin tests to pinpoint the cause of a reaction.

An allergic reaction to one type of oil doesn’t mean you can’t use other moisturizing oils. Consult Compassion Dermatology for any skincare concerns. Your dermatologist can also help you develop a personalized cold weather skincare routine.

5 Dermatologist Tips On How To Care For Oily Skin | Southlake, TX

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Oily skin is one of the most common skin types around. Those who do not know how to properly care for this skin type will be more prone to developing acne, as the excess oil produced by their skin can block their pores. Learning how to care for oily skin is crucial and having a great complexion. We will look at some of the most common tips recommended by dermatologists below.

#1. Wash Your Face Regularly

First and foremost, if you have oily skin, you should be washing your face regularly. Ideally, you should wash your face in the morning, in the evening, and after exercising. These are moments when your skin will be the oiliest. You want to get rid of as much of the excess oil as possible in order to prevent it from clogging your pores.

When washing your face, it’s crucial that you use the right type of product. Studies show that nearly 50% of those with oily skin do not use the right type of products to wash their face properly. They either use hand or body soap. Another 1/3 of individuals only use water. Hand or body soap is not appropriate for your face. It can dry it out or the compounds in the soap can irritate the skin.

You need to use the right type of facial cleanser for your skin type. This means that you should have a better idea of the type of ingredients that are used in facial cleansers. If you don’t know what to look for, speak with a dermatologist. Upon completing a skin evaluation, a dermatologist can tell you what ingredients are most suited for your skin. When it comes to oily skin, you should look for cleansers that contain ingredients like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide. Avoid cleansers that are oil-based or alcohol-based.

#2. Use Moisturizer Daily

Many people with oily skin feel hesitant to use moisturizers daily. They feel that their skin is already oily enough. However, not applying a moisturizer on a regular basis can actually be more damaging to your skin.

The key is to find a moisturizer that works for your skin. In order to do so, you’re going to need to get a better understanding of the type of ingredients that you should look for. Some of the most important ingredients that the moisturizer should have include:

  • Broad-spectrum UV SPF 30 to protect your skin from the sun’s ultraviolet rays

 

  • Hyaluronic acid, which will actually help reduce the oiliness of your skin by keeping it hydrated

 

  • Clay, which can soak up excess oil and penetrate deep inside the pores to remove shininess

 

  • Grapeseed oil, which can reduce inflammation and clear clogged pores

 

  • Niacinamide, which can regulate excess oil production and increase the overall elasticity of the skin

If you’re having difficulties finding a good moisturizer, you should make an appointment with the dermatologist in Southlake, TX. A reputable dermatologist should have a wide variety of products at their office that you can try. They also know what products are making the biggest noise in the industry. They also are able to use their past experience to let you know which products seem to be most effective.

#3. Use Blotting Papers Regularly

Another way to remove excess oil that’s accumulated on your face is to use blotting papers. You should use blotting papers throughout the entire day if possible. This will help remove the excess oil so that it does not clog your pores. Blotting papers can also help remove extra shine from your face.

Make sure that you gently press the blotting paper against your face. Leave the paper alone for several seconds, so it has enough time to soak up the oil. Do not rub the paper because this will only spread the oil around.

#4. Avoid Touching Your Face

One of the most common problems that dermatologists notice is that a lot of people with oily skin will regularly touch their faces. Your fingers produce a lot of oil as well. If you’re regularly touching your face, you’re spreading the bacteria and oil on your hands to your face. This increases the risk of developing acne. You should only touch your face after you’ve washed your hands.

Before you apply any moisturizer, sunscreen, or cleanser to your face, wash your hands with soap. Make sure that you properly dry it as well. Try to keep any contact to a minimum. This is especially important if you find that you’re constantly getting acne breakouts. This one little tip can make all the difference in the world.

#5. Choose the Right Type of Make-Up

Last but not least, you need to be very mindful of the type of makeup products that you use. In particular, look for brands that do not have oil-based products. These products only make your face feel oilier and exacerbate your condition.

Instead, look for a brand that offers water-based products. These products will be gentler on your skin. They’ll also be able to help reduce shine.

Get Professional Advice and Treatments from Compassion Dermatology

The key to having beautiful skin is to treat it properly. If you have oily skin, you’ll need to care for your skin in a different way than if you have dry skin. If you’re having difficulties caring for your skin type, you should schedule an appointment with a dermatologist at Compassion Dermatology in order to learn more about what you’re doing right and what you’re doing wrong.

Just because you have oily skin, it doesn’t mean that your skin will respond to all treatments. A dermatologist can take a better look at the constitution of your skin type in order to determine the type of treatments that can help. At Compassion Dermatology, you’ll find a wide range of skincare services. Our dermatologists will perform a complete skin evaluation first before recommending any treatments or products.

Schedule an appointment with us at Compassion Dermatology by calling 817-380-5911! Our office is close to Southlake, TX so it’s perfect for anyone in the nearby areas!