Dermatologist Tips: Swimmers Can Protect Their Skin | Southlake, TX

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If you’re an avid swimmer and enjoy going to the pool, then you need to take extra care of your skin. If you’re heading to the beach, you’re exposing your skin to a lot of salt and other chemicals. However, if you go to an indoor or outdoor swimming pool, you’ll definitely expose your skin to chlorine. And, as everyone knows, chlorine can have some harsh effects on your skin.

That doesn’t mean that you have to avoid swimming as often as you’d like. Instead, make sure that you pay attention to your skin’s condition and listen to what it’s saying. If you’ve noticed that swimming is causing some harsh reactions, speak to a dermatologist in Southlake, TX as soon as possible. You might need some extra help.

#1. Add a Barrier Between Your Skin and the Water

Avid swimmers usually complain of the same thing to dermatologists. They find that their skin feels irritated, dry and itchy. This problem is particularly prevalent if you swim indoors, as chlorine is often added to swimming pools and is one of the leading causes of irritation.

To keep your skin feeling supple and soft, all you have to do is prepare your skin ahead of time by applying a cream all over your body. Most dermatologists recommend looking for ointments that contain oils, glycerin or petrolatum. You should also look for ointments that contain dimethicone, as this is not soluble in water and will form a thin sealant between the swimming pool water and your delicate skin.

Before you lather up with an ointment, check with your swimming pool to see whether they have any regulations or rules when it comes to creams. Some swimming pools bar specific ingredients, as they might interact with the ingredients in the pool and lower their efficacy.

#2. Shower Immediately After a Swim

Some swimmers like to shower right after the swim at the swimming pool or even if they’re at the beach. Many beaches have shower facilities available. If you find that your skin feels a bit dry, itchy or irritated after a swim, you need to shower immediately afterwards. Don’t wait until you get home. Although you might feel more comfortable showering at home, you’re giving the chemicals in the pool and the salt at the beach plenty of time to interact with your skin. Unfortunately, this can lead to less favorable outcomes.

In order to protect your skin, shower immediately. Use a gentle soap and lather up. You should also take this opportunity to wash your hair and scalp. Often, many swimmers will find that their hair gets damaged easily due to the chemicals in the water. Letting these chemicals seep for an even longer period of time will only do more damage.

#3. Avoid Air Drying

Let’s say that you just had a nice swim at the beach. You might feel tempted to sit in the sun and let it dry you off. While feeling the sun on your skin might feel amazing, it’s actually not a good idea at all. Combined with the salt or the chemicals, air drying can also make your skin drier than usual. Over time, this can lead to signs of premature aging. For example, you might notice more fine lines and wrinkles than before.

To avoid dry skin, most dermatologists recommend rinsing off with clean water immediately and then drying yourself off with a soft, cotton towel. Although your skin can easily bounce back, you want to be as gentle as possible in order to avoid wrinkles and fine lines from coming early!

#4. Moisturize

Last but not least, we cannot stress this enough. If you want to protect your skin and keep it looking healthy and young, you absolutely need to moisturize regularly. You should moisturize right after you’ve showered and also apply more moisturizer on days that you’ve gone for a swim. After a swim, a lot of water has left your body and skin (hence why you get shriveled up fingers and toes after sitting in a bath for too long).

Depending on how dry your skin feels, consider switching to a thicker or more intense cream. If you’re not sure what works for you, speak with a dermatologist. They’ll be able to look at your skin’s condition and needs to either recommend you a product that they love or create a formula just for you! Just remember that what works for someone else might not necessarily work for you. If you’ve been using a cream or ointment that was recommended by a friend and haven’t been seeing any results, you should always get some professional advice and help. Your body might be more responsive to another ingredient!

Get a Skin Evaluation from a Dermatologist in Southlake, TX

Don’t let the chlorine and other chemicals in the pool stop you from swimming often. There are many different ways that you can protect your skin from damage. If you are ever concerned, speak with a dermatologist in Southlake, TX. Here, at Compassion Dermatology, we have a lot of experience in handling all types of skin problems. Our dermatologists will perform a thorough skin evaluation and assessment first to determine what your skin needs. From there, we’ll be able to recommend a wide range of treatments. For example, if you would like to treat fine lines and wrinkles, improve elasticity and firmness, improve tone and vibrancy or get rid of enlarged pores, we highly recommend getting a HydraFacial! You can see hide improvements after just one treatment.

For more information or to get your skin evaluated by a dermatologist, give us at Compassion Dermatology a call at 817-380-5911. Our professionals are committed to providing you with excellent care and up-to-date information on the latest research, technologies, and techniques, and will be more than happy to walk you through every treatment and product. We’ll make sure that you feel comfortable with the regimen that we’ve recommended.


Skin Evaluation With Your Dermatology Office | Southlake Area

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Did you know that skin cancer has a genetic component to it? In fact, 1 in 10 people who are diagnosed with skin cancer will have a family member who was also diagnosed with skin cancer in the past. If this applies to you, you’ll need to be a bit more proactive, and this includes getting regular full-body skin evaluations from a dermatology clinic, like Compassion Dermatology, in the Southlake area.

It’s easy for sunspots, blemishes, and other issues to go completely unnoticed. After all, most people don’t inspect their entire bodies on a regular basis. However, getting a professional to perform a full-body skin exam can really help put your mind at ease. So, what does a full-body skin examination entail? We’re here to break it down for you.

What Does a Fully-Body Skin Evaluation Include?

First things first, it’s important to learn what a full-body skin examination includes. This is also known as skin cancer screening and is a visual exam conducted by a dermatologist to check your skin for unusual marks or symptoms that could be a sign of skin cancer. This can include anything from birthmarks to moles to suspicious spots. Most of us cannot identify which moles are absolutely normal, and which ones look a bit funky and need further examination. In general, the entire examination will take about 20 minutes to complete.

During the screening, the dermatologist from the dermatology clinic can also take a look at other skin conditions or issues that you may have. Even if you’re concerned with cosmetic issues, you can bring these issues up at this time, and the dermatologist might have a recommendation for you. For example, let’s say that you’re worried about fine lines and wrinkles. Our dermatologists will look at whether the amount of fine lines and wrinkles that you have are signs of premature aging, and if so, the types of products and treatments that can help.

For example, HydraFacial is one of the most recommended treatments at our clinic. It not only treats fine lines and wrinkles, but it can also improve overall elasticity, firmness, tone, texture, and vibrancy, as well as shrink pores, and improve the overall appearance of your skin. This treatment gets rid of impurities and dead skin cells and replenishes your skin with antioxidants, peptides, and hyaluronic acid.

What Does the Dermatologist Look For?

Understanding what your dermatologist is looking for might be useful. For example, you might have noticed that there’s a mark on your body that you might want to draw attention to. In general, your dermatologist will look for the following:

  • Asymmetry. It’s unusual for moles and other spots to be asymmetrical and asymmetry may be a sign that what you’re dealing with is skin cancer. As a result, this is actually one of the first things that a dermatologist will look for.

 

  • Border. If you have skin cancer, the melanoma will usually have a ragged or scalloped border. Cancer-free growths, on the other hand, usually have smooth, even borders.

 

  • Color. Most non-cancerous growths are only a single shade of brown. However, if you have some type of growth that is multi-colored, you might need to get it further analyzed and examined.

 

  • Instability. Last but not least, a lot of cancerous growths are unstable in shape and color. They’ll change in appearance ever so often, and this instability can be a sign of something much more problematic. Most dermatologists will keep track of the various growths on your body, so they can easily catch these problems while they’re still minor.

There are many other signs that a dermatologist will look for. If the dermatologist notices anything fishy, they’ll let you know and provide you with some advice on what to do next. They may recommend that you get further screening or send in a sample to a lab for analysis. Either way, they’ll be able to help you through the rest of the process, so that it remains as stress-free as possible.

Who Should Get a Full-Body Skin Evaluation?

It never hurts to book an appointment at a dermatology clinic for a full-body skin evaluation. However, some people do need to get screened more so than others. Those who should highly consider getting a full-body skin evaluation at a dermatology clinic include:

  • Those with a light skin tone
  • Those who tend to burn or get freckles easily
  • Those with a family history of melanoma or other types of skin cancers
  • Those who have a lot of moles on their body
  • Those who go to tanning salons regularly or tan in the sun a lot
  • Those who are recipients of an organ transplant

If you have a family history of melanoma or other types of skin cancer, let the dermatologist know has it can help them with their diagnosis or help them figure out what types of services you need in order to keep yourself safe and healthy.

Call Us for Dermatology Services in the Southlake Area

Dermatology is much more than just having radiant, beautiful skin. It’s also about making sure that your skin is healthy and that includes staying proactive and screening for skin cancer. With regular dermatology services, you can rest assured that you’re doing everything that you can to catch the melanoma before it becomes a huge problem.

Regardless of what you need, Compassion Dermatology is here to help. We are one of the top clinics in the Southlake area. We are a member of the American Association of Dermatology and have quite a lot of years of experience in the industry. Our team has helped many clients achieve the results that they’re looking for. We’ve treated a wide range of different skin conditions and disorders with ease.

For more information, give us a call at 817-380-5911. Our dermatologists will be more than happy to answer any questions or concerns that you may have about a full-body skin screening and can also help you figure out whether there are any other services or treatments that you might benefit from.


Winter Dermatologist Tips For Healthy Skin | Southlake, TX

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Although Southlake, TX, is known for mild winters, that doesn’t mean that your skin won’t suffer from colder, dry air. Even without the “snowmageddon”, we experienced last year, winter weather is still harsh for your face, hands, and entire body.

Dry, cold winter temperatures can make your skin red, itchy, and irritated. Improve the condition of dry winter skin with help from your local dermatologist. Today, we’re sharing some of our favorite tips for healthy skin during the wintertime. And don’t forget, if you have dehydrated skin, breakouts, or any other skin concerns, visit Compassion Dermatology personalized skincare.

Use a Humidifier To Increase Moisture In the Air

Winter air is drier than humid summer air. Using a humidifier in your house or office adds moisture to the atmosphere, keeping your skin more hydrated. Purchase a few humidifiers and place them in the rooms you use most, including your bedroom and workspace.

Don’t Crank Up the Heat

It’s tempting to jack up the thermostat on a cold Southlake, TX, winter night, but be careful how high you set your furnace. Your dermatologist will warn you that the central air in your home can make the air drier, which dries out your skin. Instead, keep the indoor setting between 68°F to 72°F for healthier skin.

Take Shorter, Cooler Showers

It may feel great to jump into a long, steamy shower first thing on a cold winter morning, but your skin will appreciate lukewarm water much more. In fact, yours may suggest always taking cooler showers, especially if you have dry skin.

The same goes for washing your hands – if your hands are red afterward, the water is too hot. Cooler water and soap are just as effective as hot water for removing germs and dirt. And, if you use a hot-air hand dryer in the restroom, make sure that your hands are damp, not completely dry.

Use Fragrance-Free, Gentle Facial Cleansers

Any dermatologist will tell you to use the right kind of soap for your skin type. In fact, you may need to change your skincare regimen in the wintertime. Fragrance-free, gentle cleansers are always a safe bet for any skin type. Regular bar soaps may contain fragrances and ingredients that irritate the skin. Instead, opt for a fragrance-free moisturizing gel or cleanser.

Make sure to read the labels carefully and look for fragrance-free, not unscented. Unscented products may actually contain fragrances!

Opt For Season-Specific Skin Care Routines

Some of the cleansers you use in the summertime may be too harsh for more sensitive winter skin. Likewise, your regular moisturizer might not be enough to combat winter skin dryness. Choose cream-based cleansers, and use astringents and toners sparingly.

Astringents contain alcohol, which dries out the skin. When you’re applying these to skin that’s already itchy and dry, you’ll end up compounding the problems. Instead, follow your doctor’s recommendation to use fragrance and alcohol-free products to help your skin retain its natural oils. In addition, use a richer moisturizer on your face at night.

Don’t neglect your lips! Use petroleum jelly or another ointment to help heal dry, cracked lips and avoid lip balms that contain fragrances and dyes.

Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize – Especially Your Hands

Creams and ointments work best for your hands. The skin on the hands is delicate and yet takes plenty of abuse throughout the day. Your dermatologist will recommend using lotions in warmer and more humid climates, but winters can be chilly and dry. With plenty of hand-washing during cold and flu season, make sure that you have creamy lotion on hand to remoisturize your hands after washing.

Never Neglect Sunscreen

Even if it’s a dreary winter day, the sun’s harmful UV rays can still cause skin damage. It’s worse on brighter winter days – any snow on the ground can reflect the sun’s rays. So when you’re out and about, enjoying a winter ski vacation, or even just spending time in downtown Southlake, make sure that you make applying sunscreen part of your morning skincare ritual.

Before venturing outside, be sure to apply a moisturizing broad-spectrum sunscreen on all exposed areas of your body. Look for at least SPF 15 or higher if yours recommends that.

Wear Comfortable Clothing

Winter is normally sweater weather locally but some of the fluffy, warm sweaters can be made from materials that aggravate dry winter skin. Wool and other rough materials may look cute, but they can be itchy, making dry skin red and irritated. Plus, some people may have a mild wool allergy, which further aggravates sensitive skin.

Instead, opt for light layers of soft, breathable materials, especially against the skin, then don the heavier sweaters and sweatshirts. Don’t forget to protect your hands from the cold, too, with warm gloves or mittens lined with soft materials. Look for cotton or silk glove liners if your favorite woolen mittens don’t have liners.

Eat Right and Drink Plenty of Water

This advice is probably a favorite of every dermatologist. A healthy diet and plenty of water naturally nourish your complexion. Plus, the more water you drink, the more hydrated your skin is. If you have dehydrated skin, ask your dermatologist about supplements that contain omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, such as flaxseed oil and fish oil.

Don’t Stay In Wet Clothes

It may be fun to spend time in the small amount of snow we usually get, but be sure to change out of your wet clothes as soon as possible. Damp clothing can irritate your skin.

Work With Your Southlake, TX, Dermatologist

If these tips don’t help reduce the redness, dryness, and itching of your skin in the wintertime, then you may need to schedule an appointment with a dermatologist. The team at Compassion Dermatology can help with generally dry, itchy skin concerns, as well as more severe skin conditions. If your psoriasis or eczema worsens in the winter, a dermatologist can help. Give us a call today to schedule your appointment!


Dermatologist Tips: Vitamins That Are Great For Your Skin | Southlake, TX

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You are what you eat, and your diet can have a profound impact on the overall texture, condition, and appearance of your skin. For example, researchers have found that a low-glycemic diet, which is low in sugars, reduced acne in 87% of their patients. The decrease in sugars reduced inflammatory responses that induced acne flare-ups and other skin conditions.

If you’re unhappy with the quality of your skin, we highly recommend speaking with a dermatologist in Southlake, TX. They will not only examine your skin’s natural properties with a skin assessment but will also take the time to learn about your lifestyle. There may be some key changes that you can make in order to get the results you want without medication or with less medication.

Other than that, a dermatologist can also recommend different types of treatments for you. With that said, we’ll take a look at some of the most important vitamins and nutrients that your skin needs below. If your dermatologist has deemed that you are in short supply of any of these vitamins, they’ll be able to recommend the right type of ointment or treatment for you. Keep in mind that products recommended or prescribed by a professional typically have higher concentrations of certain ingredients than over-the-counter products. This makes them much more effective.

#1. Vitamin C

One of the first things that a dermatologist will usually ask you is if you take any vitamin C supplements. If your diet is filled with citrus fruits, tomato juice, and potatoes, you’re likely getting a good amount of vitamin C; however, if you’ve been quite busy lately and always ordering take-out, you might either need to take an oral supplement or a topical one for your skin.

Recent studies show that vitamin C plays a crucial role in slowing down aging. It can prevent the formation of wrinkles and can promote wound healing. Vitamin C can increase collagen production; thus, giving you a more refreshed look. It makes your skin look more replenished and supple. If you have dark spots, vitamin C can also encourage skin cell production in those areas that can get rid of the dark spots completely without any additional treatment. Topical ointments are definitely something that’s worth looking into.

#2. Vitamin D

Another vitamin that you need plenty of is vitamin D. Normally, you can easily get all the vitamin D that you need by having some time in the sun; however, too much sunshine can also be bad for your body (especially if you don’t have adequate UV protection). If you plan on being out in the sun, make sure that you always apply sunscreen. It’ll block out the UV rays, but let vitamin D through.

Whether your skin needs a topical dose of vitamin D will depend on its overall condition. If you don’t have any noticeable skin issues, you might be better off just waiting for a good sunny day to replenish your supply. However, if you struggle with dry skin, psoriasis or eczema, vitamin D can help! Some studies also show that vitamin D might prevent premature aging of the skin.

#3. Vitamin E

Last but not least, we have vitamin E. This is a fat-soluble antioxidant that can also do wonders for your skin. If you’re not getting enough vitamin E in your diet, you should highly consider a topical application, as vitamin E is essential for the maintenance of healthy, young-looking skin.

One of the reasons why vitamin E is another beloved vitamin is because it has amazing anti-inflammatory properties, and trust us, your skin needs all the help that it can get! Vitamin E can reduce skin swelling, thickness, erythema, and edema. It can prevent inflammation and also make your skin look healthier and more refreshed. It can also be used to expedite wound healing. Some studies have also suggested that regular application of some type of vitamin E ointment can greatly improve your skin’s texture and reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.

With that said, there are many different types of vitamin E, and you need to get the right dose in order to reap the maximum amount of benefits. You should speak with a professional to get a better idea of what your skin needs. Since vitamin E is normally applied as a topical ointment, we might be able to recommend a cram that contains many other important chemicals and ingredients for skin maintenance. The concentration and types of ingredients in the ointment can be tailored to your personal needs and concerns, so you get the help that you need!

Speak with a Dermatologist in Southlake, TX

Having beautiful, flawless skin takes time. A good diet won’t change everything overnight. However, if you keep at a good diet, exercise often, and stay hydrated, you’ll notice a difference sooner or later. Help from a dermatologist can also speed up the recovery process. For example, we can provide you with treatments like BBL, HydraFacial, or microneedling. Each treatment will provide different types of results, and once we’ve diagnosed your skin, we can help you come up with a clear and effective game plan!

Here, at Compassion Dermatology, we offer a serene and peaceful place of healing and health. Our skilled dermatologists are always up-to-date with the latest innovations and research. We have helped many clients achieve the results that they want and are a member of the American Academy of Dermatology. Our team in Southlake, TX is committed to providing you with top-notch service and exemplary work. We’d be more than happy to walk you through each step of every process, so you feel comfortable with every treatment that you’re getting.

To speak with an experienced dermatologist, give us a call at 817-380-5911. Our dermatologists have a lot of experience in dealing with all types of skin problems and will provide you with honest, transparent advice and information. Rest assured that you’re in good hands!