Your Dermatologist: Medical And Cosmetic Dermatology | Southlake, TX

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Do you often look in the mirror and not like what you see looking back at you? It might be time to consult with a dermatologist in Southlake, TX, but if you have never been to a dermatology practice before you may be hesitant because you don’t know what to expect. Regardless of why you choose to see a dermatology expert, you can rest assured that they are just as professional as any other medical expert you may choose to see. They are completely discrete and will offer you advice based on what is best in your scenario.

However, before you go you need to think about whether you need medical or cosmetic dermatology. Some practices only offer one or the other while other practices are able to offer both medical and cosmetic services depending on how the doctors within the practice are licensed and what they choose to specialize in. If you are unsure of what type of dermatologist you need, you can always call the Southlake, TX practice you have in mind and ask questions. Our office is always happy to answer questions and would be glad to help you determine what exactly you need. This actually helps us out in advance because we can schedule a time that is appropriate for your needs.

Most people divide medical dermatology and cosmetic dermatology by what your insurance will or will not cover, but there is more to it than just that. Like most medical treatments, what your insurance will or will not cover changes based on what you need and what type of insurance you carry. There is no way to say one way or another in a short article whether or not your insurance will cover a service. Therefore, if you have any concerns it is best to schedule a consultation and talk to our practice and billing department about your specific needs.

What is Medical Dermatology?

Medical dermatology focuses on improving the appearance of skin and ensuring that it is healthy. The skin is the largest organ in the body and needs to be properly taken care of as you age. The main goal of medical dermatologists is to address medical conditions that concern the skin as they arise. Usually, these conditions first affect the appearance of the skin so it is not uncommon for people to first schedule an appointment with a dermatology expert because they are worried about how their skin looks.

The main difference here is that while cosmetic dermatologists treat a skin problem with the intent of making you look better, medical dermatologists only care that your skin is healthy. As you can see, there is a lot of crossover between the two since sometimes poor skin is a reflection of poor health and sometimes it is just a sign of aging. However, there are solutions that address each issue which is why it is always important to visit a dermatologist to see what can be done to improve the health of your skin.

Medical dermatology practices treat a wide variety of skin issues, but they tend to see certain conditions more than ever. For instance, among teens treatment for acne that is severe or scarring is very popular. Among adults, treatment for skin cancer is also common as skin cancer is on the rise and most people will at some point in their life have a basal cell carcinoma due to repeated exposure to the sun. As the ozone layer continues to deteriorate the damage is growing worse than it was before. Some people are also at high risk for skin cancer and should book an annual skin examination earlier in life than others.

These are just a few of the many, many conditions that are treated by medical dermatology practices. Others include eczema, psoriasis, warts, alopecia, and contact allergies. It is important to realize that skin conditions can occur at any age. Some people can live until their 60s without any skin issues and then suddenly develop skin diseases while other people might suffer from things like severe eczema from two months of age.

What is Cosmetic Dermatology?

Cosmetic dermatology on the other hand is based solely upon wants and does not have anything to do with medical needs. People who see a cosmetic dermatology expert traditionally want to reverse the signs of aging or want to improve areas of their skin that they don’t like such as non-cancerous moles or liver spots. Most cosmetic procedures involve the face since this is the area that most people feel shows the signs of aging first, but cosmetic procedures can be carried out all over the body.

In general, you see a cosmetic dermatologist if you simply want to improve the way you look, and apparently many people do as cosmetic dermatology is growing in popularity. In fact, every year more and more procedures are being performed making it a cutting-edge practice that is worth a second look. The demand is likely to continue to keep growing as people recognize how accessible cosmetic dermatology is these days. Some of the most sought-after cosmetic dermatology treatments include chemical peels, botox, laser rejuvenation, skin tightening, dermal fillers, laser hair removal, and skin tightening.

Keep in mind this is only a limited list, there are dozens of other procedures that can help you improve your appearance if you speak to a cosmetic dermatologist about your options. Whether you need to address your appearance or you need to address a medical issue that is affecting the health of your skin, Compassion Dermatology can help you. Give our Southlake, TX office a call today so we can make you an appointment with one of our fully licensed dermatologists.

Skin Cancer And Your Dermatology Service | Southlake Area

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A lot of people don’t think much about their skin until they have a problem. In fact, unless you are a fan of makeup you probably don’t even think about it at all outside of ensuring you wash your face and body on a regular basis. However, the second a suspicious mole or discoloration shows up your skin will be the only thing that you can think about. With skin cancer on the rise, for many people, it is only a matter of time until a visit to the dermatologist pops up on their to-do list. So what should you expect from the field of dermatology?

Surprisingly a lot. Dermatology is one field that continues to make rapid advances every year. There are always new products and prescription creams debuting on the market and as skin cancer grows there is a growing field of innovative ways to treat it. Even people who think they know the skincare market inside and out are amazed at the secret creams that dermatologists in the Southlake area have up their sleeves. The simple truth of the matter is that if it deals with the skin, a dermatologist is the best solution every time.

Visit a Dermatologist Before Spending Hundreds in the Beauty Aisle

There are a million skincare products on the market, and they all want you to think that they will cure your problems, but the simple truth is if one of them actually worked don’t you think everyone would know? There is a reason why you don’t hear about an amazing fountain of youth or cream that everyone your age is using. It is because there isn’t one magic elixir. However, in the world of dermatology, there are effective solutions to common skin issues that aren’t on the shelf.

These medications are trialed, controlled, and properly overseen because they have the ability to help treat many skin ailments. You can keep pouring your money into beauty products that will not actually help (outside of sunscreen- that can help your skin immensely) or you can take the plunge and visit a dermatology practice to get real help for your concerns. Sometimes discolored skin and raised bumps are symptoms of other issues that require more than what the beauty aisle can get you at your local drug store. You won’t know until you allow a doctor at a local practice to get a good look.

When to Head to a Dermatologist for Skin Cancer

Skin cancer, also known as basal cell carcinoma can have many appearances during the early stages which is why it is important to always be alarmed by changes to your skin. Visiting a dermatology practice and finding out that something is simply a sign of aging is never going to hurt you, but skipping a visit and allowing skin cancer to progress is going to have potentially disastrous results so it is always best to be safe than sorry.

Some of the most common signs that skin cancer might be growing include a white or waxy bump, increased visible blood vessels, new scaly brown patches on the body, or sometimes a new waxy scar that forms independently of an injury. The most common places for skin cancer to appear are areas that receive the most sun such as the ears, face, and neck. Skin cancer is also common in the back and for men with thinning hair on the scalp. Keep in mind that while these are the most common areas to have patches of basal cell tumors, skin cancer can appear anywhere so always be on the lookout.

The Benefits of a Full-Body Skin Exam

Given the fact that skin cancer can appear at any stage of your life and/or in many forms, it is not a bad idea to book a full-body skin exam with a dermatology practice as you grow older. This type of exam is recommended for anyone that has spent a large amount of time in the sun or anyone that is over the age of 30. While that may seem young, keep in mind that repeated exposure to the sun is all it takes to develop skin cancer, and catching small clusters of basal cell carcinoma early is key in treatment.

However, some groups of people should see a dermatologist earlier to be checked for skin cancer. Children that are considered at high risk for skin cancer are actually recommended to start seeing the doctor at age 15. Risk factors that increase your chances of developing skin cancer include a family history of skin cancer, the presence of moles on the body, and those who spend a great deal of time in the sun unprotected. Regular indoor tanning also heightens your chances of developing skin cancer and should be considered a risk factor. Those with fair skin, blonde or red hair, and skin that easily burns are also at a heightened risk of skin cancer.

What Happens During a Skin Exam at a Dermatologist?

Skin cancer screening is non-invasive and is a fairly easy practice which is why it is recommended anyone with skin concerns book a screening at their local dermatology office. The actual screening is simply a visual exam that involves a doctor looking over a patient from head to toe. Patients wear a hospital gown but should not be concerned about any private areas being checked, although, if a patient has specific concerns about growth in a private region they should mention it to their doctor at which point it can be respectfully examined.

Now that you know how easy it is to get screened for skin cancer, it is time to make an appointment at your local dermatology office for a check-up in the Southlake area. Compassion Dermatology offers regular skin cancer screenings along with other exams for all patients that live in the Southlake area. Give us a call today to get your first visit scheduled.

What To Expect From Your First Time Seeing A Dermatologist | Southlake, TX

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When you have a serious skin condition, it can be very damaging to your self-esteem. It’s particularly bad when other people can see it and judge you based on your appearance. If you feel nervous about setting up your first Southlake, TX dermatology appointment, don’t be! The right dermatologic team is caring and compassionate, two things that make you feel right at home when seeking treatment options.

It Starts with One Phone Call or Email

This guide is one that you’ll return to regularly because of the valuable information that it contains. It helps acquaint you with dermatologic services and prepares you for your initial consultation. It provides valuable insight into what to expect when meeting with a dermatology team and dermatologist for the first time. By the time you’ve finished reading it, you’ll be more than ready to tackle the task at hand by getting your very first appointment scheduled without delay.

Here is what to expect from your first Southlake, TX dermatology appointment:

  • Fill out the forms on the website to bring with you to your consultation with the dermatologist. There are two to six to complete. You can also email them to Compassion Dermatology. We must have them on file before seeing you and treating you. It allows us to build a medical history on you that we can reference at future appointments with your doctor.

 

  • If you’re an unaccompanied minor, please have the Minor Consent to Treat form available, too. It states that your parents have given their explicit consent to the treatment you’ll be receiving from the dermatologist. If you are underage, we cannot see you without the form. It, too, is available on our website under the category of ‘Your First Appointment.’ You’ll want to print it out and bring it in with you unless you have the option to scan it and send it to us by email three days before your appointment.

 

  • Arrive at our office at least 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment time. It allows us plenty of time to get you checked in so that we can make sure that you’ve completed all of the forms entirely before you see the dermatologist. It gives the doctor a chance to finish up with other patients, too, before seeing you.

 

  • Bring your insurance card with you to enter into the system along with the rest of your paperwork. When it comes time to bill you for your visit, we contact your insurance company to cover the portion of the appointment that your co-pay doesn’t cover. The receptionist often makes a copy of the card or enters it into the database for future visits. If your insurance changes for any reason between your first and follow-up appointments, you must let us know to bill the right provider.

 

  • Note that your initial consultation is a time for asking questions and seeking advice. If you have specific things you want to ask your dermatologist, it’s important that you know what they are in advance. That way, you get everything you can from your dermatology appointment. It may help to write them down on a piece of paper or create a note on your phone, so you don’t forget what they are currently. The more you know about the doctor and dermatology office, the more comfortable you feel having them treat your skin condition.

 

  • Once we set you up in the system, you can access the Patient Portal to read notes left by the dermatologist. If you’re the type of person that appreciates doing things online, you’ll love being able to access information after your appointment through the Patient Portal located on our website. It puts the power of patient advocacy into your hands. It also allows you to pay any remaining balance left on your account by debit or credit card after seeing the doctor. We make things as comfortable as possible for you so that you’re able to take care of all of your needs by visiting our website if it’s your preferred way of gathering knowledge from us.

 

  • We treat you with kindness and respect at all times. It’s vital that you feel like we treat you with care during every visit you make to our office. We know how much courage it takes to treat a skin condition that has been highly problematic for you. Know that you’ll get the care that you deserve when you schedule an appointment to see us. We get to know you as a person to help you achieve the goals you’ve set for yourself in treating your skin.

Having a dermatologist that you trust to visit is imperative to the health of your skin. It makes you more confident of the professional’s ability to help you with your condition. You don’t put off appointments because you’re nervous or feel like they don’t help you in any way. Instead, you get the service scheduled quickly, so you’re able to benefit from having access to the treatments and medications that you need to eliminate or reduce the effects of your skin problem.

Get the help that you deserve by scheduling your initial consultation with a dermatologist without delay. Putting it off only makes things worse. When you have a team of caring medical professionals by your side, it’s empowering. It allows you to get the help that you need and deserve when dealing with your skin.

Set Up Your First Appointment with a Caring Dermatological Team of Professionals Today

Compassion Dermatology in Southlake, TX, is here to help you with your request for assistance in seeing a dermatologist. We make scheduling your first appointment fast and easy. You can call 817-380-5911 or email welcome@compassiondermatology.com. Whatever way you choose to reach out to us, know that you’ll get an expedient response so we can get your initial consultation booked without delay.

It’s important that we’re able to assist you with your request on time. The sooner you reach out to us for a dermatology appointment, the better. Letting us know more about your condition helps us provide as much information to the doctor as possible before your visit. That way, they’re prepared to assist you in a way that feels comfortable and convenient for you.

5 Dermatologist Tips On How To Deal With Oily Skin | Southlake, TX

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Depending on your skin type, you may have very different concerns. For example, someone with dry skin may worry more about cracked skin than someone with oily skin. Someone with oily skin may be more concerned with figuring out how to control their skin’s oil production, so they don’t look extremely greasy throughout the day.

The key to having great skin is knowing exactly what your skin needs. This isn’t easy, which is why we highly recommend that you speak with one of our dermatologists in Southlake, TX for more information. Below, we’ve listed out 5 general tips that you can follow.

#1. Exfoliate Once a Week

Many dermatologists will recommend exfoliating once a week if you have oily skin. Choosing the right type of exfoliator is crucial. Look for products that contain both alpha- and beta-hydroxy acids, as they are very effective at removing oil and dirt that have made their way into your pores. You’ll notice a difference right away with these products.

Exfoliating once a week can prevent your pores from clogging, which is one of the main concerns of people with oily skin. They’re usually more prone to getting acne.

#2. Use an Astringent Every Other Day

Other than exfoliating, you should also consider using an astringent every other day. Astringents are usually liquid-based products that will help clean your skin, tighten your pores, and also remove oil. By tightening your pores, astringents can also help regulate oil production and make your skin less oily. With that said, astringents usually contain isopropyl, which is rubbing alcohol, so it can dry out your skin. This is why you need to use it moderately.

If you’re worried about the alcohol, you can look around, as some of the newer products on the market are alcohol-free or contain alcohol from botanicals, which can be less drying.

#3. Always Have Some Blotting Paper On Hand

You’ve probably seen blotting paper being used by some people who seem to sweat a lot more than others. There are some arguments over whether blotting papers really are good for your skin or not. Some people say that it will push the dirt and dust on your skin further in; however, blotting papers do work. You need to be careful with how often you use them, the type of blotting papers that you use, and whether you clean your face properly at the end of the day.

With that said, blotting papers don’t actually treat the problem. They simply remove the oil, so you won’t have to worry about it as much for the time being.

#4. Use a Clay Mask

Proper skincare is crucial for managing oily skin. One of the main reasons why many people will seek help from a dermatologist is because it can be difficult to find the right types of products. If you use the wrong products, it can make your oil problem worse.

One of the best products that you can use to control oily skin is a clay mask. Try to apply a clay mask on your face at least once a week. It will make a huge difference. If you’re not sure what type of clay mask to use, speak with a dermatologist. An experienced professional can look at the ingredients in each mask to figure out which one may be most beneficial for your skin.

One of the main reasons why many dermatologists recommend clay masks is because they contain minerals like bentonite or smectite. These minerals do a really good job of absorbing excess oils and reducing overall shine without irritating the skin. They’ll prevent your skin from drying out and will keep it smooth and moisturized.

If you don’t feel comfortable applying a face mask by yourself at home, you can always find an experienced professional who offers this type of skin care treatment and routine at their office. It’s a great way to relax, and you can always add on other services that will make your skin glow.

#5. Consider Professional Treatment

Many people simply can’t seem to handle the amount of oil that’s being produced by their skin. In these situations, it might be a good idea to book a consultation with a dermatologist for not only skincare products but also professional treatment.

Some of the more popular treatment options for oily skin include pulsed light therapy, heat energy therapy, and even diode laser therapy. These therapies are able to effectively target and destroy the sebaceous glands in your face. This will greatly reduce the amount of oil that your skin produces on a regular basis.

With that said, these therapies can be quite expensive, so it’s important to explore the long-term benefits, as well as side effects, with an experienced professional in detail. It’s important to also discuss your concerns at this time as well since various treatments come with their own unique concerns and side effects.

Get a Skin Evaluation from a Dermatologist in Southlake, TX

It can be really difficult to gauge how you should treat your skin or what your skin needs if you haven’t spent years studying dermatology. It’s easy to get pulled in by social media influencers that promote certain skincare products; however, these products may not necessarily work for your skin based on its type and texture.

To get a better idea of how you should maintain and care for your skin, get a complete skin evaluation of your skin from head to toe. Our dermatologists can easily determine your skin type and whether there are any issues that need to be addressed. For example, they’ll monitor and evaluate moles and pigment changes in order to identify medical issues and cosmetic concerns.

With that information, our dermatologists in Southlake, TX can work with your insurance provider to create a personalized skincare routine and regimen that perfectly suits your skin. For more information, give us at Compassion Dermatology a call at 817-380-5911.