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.

Signs You Should Schedule A Dermatologist Appointment | Southlake, TX

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Your skin is your largest organ and one of the first things people see when they look at you. If there are any issues with your skin’s appearance or if a skin condition is making you feel uncomfortable, you should see a dermatologist. There are several telltale signs that it is time to schedule an appointment with a doctor.

#1 A Changing Mole

Most moles are harmless. Some people are born with moles or develop them during infancy, and they don’t cause any issues. Some people develop moles later on in life, and these can be harmless as well. If you have a mole, it is essential that you check it often for any changes. If the mole has changed in shape or size, it should be checked by a dermatologist. The same is true if the mole gets itchy, starts to bleed, causes stabbing or pain, or becomes an open sore. These can all be signs of cancer and should be looked at right away.

#2 Itchy Skin

Itchy skin can make you very uncomfortable. Itching can be caused by a rash and dry skin and can be treated by a doctor. You can be prescribed a prescription-strength cream that can treat the condition and relieve the itch. Constantly itchy skin can also be a sign of a health condition and even cancer. This is why it is essential that you have your skin checked by a professional if the itching doesn’t stop.

#3 Visible Scars

It is a good thing if you are able to embrace scars on your body and see them as a sign of strength. Unfortunately, many people hate their scars, particularly the ones on their faces. If you have a scar that makes you insecure about your appearance, you should call a dermatologist. If the scars are new and still red, there are treatment options available to reduce the appearance of the scars, making you feel better about yourself. It is essential that you contact a professional as soon as the scars begin to appear because the sooner you begin treatment, the better the chances are that the treatment will be effective.

#4 You Have a Very Painful Sunburn

If you are planning to spend time in the sun, it is essential that you wear sunscreen. This is even more important if you are prone to sunburns. If you forget to apply sunscreen or it washes off, you can develop a sunburn. Most sunburns are painful; however, if you develop a very painful sunburn along with blisters, red streaks and you develop a fever, you should schedule an appointment with a dermatologist right away. These are all signs that you have developed an infection, and scarring is possible. A doctor can treat the infection and the symptoms associated with it.

#5 Unexplained Redness

If you develop unexplained red marks on your skin, you should schedule an appointment with a dermatologist in Southlake, TX. The unexplained red marks could mean that you have psoriasis or you are beginning to develop it. This is a genetic condition that often occurs after a period of stress when you are in your ’20s. If you don’t get treatment for this skin condition, it can develop into a painful condition called psoriatic arthritis later on. This is a chronic condition, but if you begin treatment with a doctor early, you can get control of the condition.

#6 Brown Spots On The Skin

Brown spots on your skin can make you insecure, particularly if they are on your face. These spots are commonly caused by sun damage or aging. They can also be a symptom of a hormone imbalance. If you have dark spots on your skin that are getting darker, you should schedule an appointment with a doctor.

First, your dermatologist will examine your skin and run tests to determine the cause of the brown spots. If it is a hormonal issue, they can have you schedule an appointment with your primary care physician to change your birth control or begin treatment to balance out your hormones. If the cause of the brown spots is sun damage, your doctor can prescribe a powerful bleaching cream to lighten the spots or laser treatment to remove them altogether.

#7 A Red, Itchy Scalp

If your scalp is red and itchy, it can be very annoying and uncomfortable. If the redness and itching are due to a skin condition, the symptoms won’t go away on their own. Instead, the redness and itching will get worse, and over time, it can affect your entire scalp. It is best to schedule an appointment with a doctor as soon as the symptoms begin.

#8 New Skin Growth

If you notice a new skin growth that lasts for longer than three weeks, you should schedule an appointment with a dermatologist. They will be able to figure out what is causing the new skin growth and create a treatment plan based on the cause of the growth.

#9 Severe Acne

Most people will develop a pimple or two from time to time. However, if you have a severe acne outbreak, you should schedule an appointment with a doctor. Severe acne often cannot be treated using over the counter products, and if the acne isn’t treated, it can leave permanent scars on your skin. A doctor will be able to prescribe a powerful prescription medication designed to treat severe acne.

#10 Unexplained Hair Loss

If your hair starts falling out and you don’t know why, you should schedule an appointment with a dermatologist in Southlake, TX. A doctor can provide treatment to prevent bald spots on your head. They can also figure out what is causing your hair loss. If there is an underlying cause for the condition, it can be treated.

Why Choose Compassion Dermatology?

If you develop pain, itching, or changes in your skin, schedule an appointment with Compassion Dermatology. Our dermatologists are highly-trained and skilled and are compassionate when it comes to skin, hair, and nail conditions, which is where we got our name.

To schedule an appointment, give us a call today.

Questions For Your Dermatologist About Icon Treatments | Southlake, TX

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The Icon aesthetic system is a multi-purpose platform with seven hand pieces, each designed to tackle a particular skincare issue. From hair removal to wrinkle reduction and skin resurfacing through state-of-the-art cooling and fractional laser use, the Icon can take care of nearly every skincare issue you raise with your dermatologist.

What can Icon treatments be used for?

The Icon Aesthetic System from Palomar offers fast, significant results for a wide variety of skincare treatments. Some of the more popular treatment services your dermatologist in Southlake, TX, can provide you with include:

  • Pigment clearance
  • Wrinkle reduction
  • Hair reduction
  • Stretch mark reduction
  • Acne scar reduction
  • Leg vein clearance
  • Skin resurfacing

The Icon system has various hand attachments that can be used, depending on the resurfacing treatment required. In particular, the Icon 2940 is designed to effectively reduce wrinkles, age spots, brown spots, caused by either natural aging or excess sun exposure.

Is an Icon treatment classed as a surgical procedure?

No, Icon treatments provided by your dermatologist are not classed as surgical treatments.

What is the average recovery time?

Since the Icon system utilizes a fractional laser, the recovery process is much less intensive. Fractional lasers focus the intense heat energy in specifically targeted areas, avoiding the healthy surrounding tissue, which means the healing process is much quicker than with other treatments—the average recovery time is between 10-14 days.

Is there anything I should avoid before undertaking an Icon treatment?

Before undergoing an Icon treatment at your local dermatologist office, we may ask you to prepare in the following ways during the lead-up to to your appointment:

  • Avoid excess sun exposure
  • Avoid using tanning products
  • Decrease your alcohol intake
  • Discontinue the use of harsh skin care products
  • Avoid drinking or eating for 6 hours before your treatment

Of particular importance is the discontinuance of chemical skincare peels, aggressive scrubs, and other harsh skincare routines, though topical moisturizers and other products such as sunscreen may still be used. Sunscreen is vital if you’re unable to decrease sun exposure before your treatment occurs.

What if I’m using a prescription topical acne treatment? Can I still have Icon skin treatments done by my dermatologist?

Before proceeding with any skincare treatment, you should make your dermatologist aware of any topical treatments you’re using on the areas you wish your Icon treatment to target if they aren’t already aware of them. Your skin should be assessed before the booking occurs, as a medical professional will need to determine the appropriate wait time.

We prefer to treat healthy, non-irritated skin. If you’re using anything that causes your skin to be dry, flaky, or irritated, then a waiting period of 1-2 weeks after discontinuing use of the product that has affected your skin may be recommended. It does not mean that you won’t qualify for treatment.

I’m taking antibiotics. Can I still get Icon laser treatments?

If you’re taking antibiotics, your dermatologist may wish to perform test spots before treatment to determine your sensitivity to the lasers used. If the test spot results are satisfactory, you can proceed with your laser treatment of choice.

What can I expect to happen during treatment?

On the day of your treatment, before the laser process begins, your dermatologist will examine, cleanse, and prepare your skin. Local anesthetic or numbing cream may be applied as necessary before the laser targets the chosen area. The laser can target areas of irregular pigmentation, uneven skin texture, wrinkles, fine lines, and other imperfections.

As the procedure goes on, your dermatologist will closely monitor the effect on your skin and make sure the session is both effective and as comfortable as possible for you. Once the skin treatment has finished, soothing ointment or serum should be applied to help ease initial discomfort.

How many sessions will I need to book?

As little as one session can provide the results that you need. If more treatment sessions are desired, your doctor will advise on when it’s possible to schedule another skin treatment session. It often depends on how long it takes your skin to recover and your skin’s characteristics.

What can I expect to happen after treatment?

Immediately after treatment, you’ll notice some discomfort. Your skin will feel raw and swollen. The good news is you can safely ease the pain with over-the-counter medications and cold compresses.

Approximately 1-2 weeks after your Icon treatment session, your skin will be healing. You may see scabbing and crusting as the new skin forms. Scabbing is nothing to worry about, and you can often return to work at the end of the first week after treatment. You may find it beneficial to take antibiotics and antiviral medications, which can be prescribed. Keep taking these medications until the course is complete for the best chance at healing. During the first few weeks, try to avoid excess sun exposure.

Beyond the first few weeks, you’ll notice your new skin will remain pink. The pinkness can remain for several months. Wrinkles and other signs of aging will eventually reappear as your new skin ages.

Why choose an Icon laser treatment?

One of the unique features of an Icon laser treatment is that the device has a melanin reader. This state-of-the-art technology is the industry’s only melanin reading device which measures your skin’s melanin index during every treatment. The index helps to determine the ideal settings for your laser treatment so that the laser is safely calibrated to provide the best results possible.

Why choose Compassion Dermatology?

Our skilled skincare team remains actively informed on the latest dermatology research and innovations that will help you to maintain the best skin appearance possible. We trust the results of the Icon Aesthetic System and believe that you should too. In addition to our knowledge and skill, you’ll receive the utmost compassion and care at our Southlake facility that also serves Southlake, TX, residents. Request an appointment with us, and we’ll be happy to discuss any concerns or requirements you may have regarding our advanced Icon laser treatments.

Things a Dermatologist Can Help You with | Southlake, TX

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If you’ve ever questioned whether you need to visit a dermatologist or not, you’re not alone. Many people aren’t sure if they need to see a skin doctor because of a problem that they’re experiencing. To help you understand which types of problems a doctor of dermatology

treats, we’ve created this short but accessible guide for you to reference.

You can seek guidance from it whenever you experience a skin-related issue that needs medical attention. Knowing what signs and symptoms to look for in rashes and other skin problems help you learn the cause of them and the best treatment options available. Adding a dermatologist in Southlake, TX, to your team of medical professionals helps you look and feel your very best.

The Types of Services a Dermatologist Has to Offer You

A doctor of dermatology deals with skin conditions that are mild to aggressive in nature. You may have never needed to see a doctor of dermatology until now because you weren’t facing an issue with your skin. Now that you feel discomfort, it’s imperative to see someone who can get to the root of the issue and offer you solutions for relief.

Here are some things a dermatologist can help you with:

  • Moles
  • Pigment Changes
  • Growths
  • Inflammation
  • Precancer
  • Skin Cancer
  • Melanoma
  • Dysplastic Moles
  • Facial Vessels
  • Acne Scars
  • BOTOX
  • Stretch Marks
  • Scalp Issues
  • Permanent Hair Reduction

The list contains just a few of the issues best addressed by a doctor of dermatology. The doctor of dermatology that you work with treats each patient like the unique person that they are. They do not offer one-size-fits-all solutions because they know that they won’t help things at all. Instead, they treat you as an individual with unique skin care needs.

A dermatologist has a lot they can do for you. After reading the list, you have a better understanding of why dermatology matters. It should be a service that you seek as part of your ongoing healthcare regimen. Considering that the skin is the largest organ that you have, you must take good care of it.

What to Look for in a Good Dermatologist in Southlake, TX

An excellent doctor of dermatology can make any skin problem better. Knowing what to look for in a medical professional is imperative. It helps you choose the right skincare expert to work with based on the needs that you have currently.

To help you identify the best dermatologist office to work with, we’ve included some character traits that excellent doctors of dermatology exhibit. That way, you’re not left wondering why you chose to go to a doctor of dermatology in the first place.

Here is what makes a skincare doctor the best option for you:

  • They take time to get to know you and the issue you’re experiencing. Empowering the patient is something that many doctors want to do. They want you to feel like your thoughts and ideas matter. They don’t know the level of discomfort that you’ve experienced, so they listen so that they’re better able to understand and assist you. They get to know you as an individual and the problem that you’re experiencing with your skin.

 

  • They provide you with solutions that best meet your needs. Everyone is different. You can’t expect the same results as someone else. Your skincare doctor takes into account all of the things that could be causing the problem with your skin. They then go to work, trying to treat the issue to the best of their ability. They use their knowledge, expertise, and training to determine whether surgery or medication will help you with your rash, acne, or other skin-related problem.

 

  • They give you their undivided attention when you have an appointment with them. A good patient/doctor relationship built on trust is valuable. When the doctor of dermatology you see gives you their time and listens to you, a magical exchange occurs. You feel like your needs will be met, and the doctor knows that you’ll do everything you can to follow their suggestions. There is nothing more frustrating than asking for assistance and not getting the time or respect that you deserve.

 

  • They treat you with compassion. Many people experience anxiety when they need to see a doctor. Visiting a dermatologist isn’t much different for them. A skincare doctor should be one that offers you kindness and compassion in everything they do. They should help you overcome your fears and challenges by treating you with care. Doing so can help expedite the healing process and ensure that you come back to see them again.

 

  • They explain what you should do next following a visit or treatment option from them. You have clear instructions as to what to do to help your issue. The doctor of dermatology makes it very easy to follow the directions that they’ve given to you. They go above and beyond to make sure that instructions aren’t hard-to-follow or understand. They ask you to contact them if they have any ongoing questions that they need to resolve.

 

  • They’re available to answer your questions while you’re healing and during follow-up visits. The best doctor of dermatology is around when you need them. They go above and beyond to make sure that you feel good about the level of care that you’re receiving from them. The skincare professional has a vested interest in your health and well-being. They make themselves available and accessible to help you whenever you need additional assistance.

The best doctor is one that you can envision yourself working with for years. They are kind, understanding, and helpful. They make you feel seen and heard as a patient. They don’t dismiss your concerns and make you a partner in choosing the right solution to meet your needs.

Compassion Dermatology Makes Skin-Related Issues Better

Got questions? Compassion Dermatology has answers. To learn more about our services and how they can help you, contact us right away. Call 817-893-2670 to schedule an appointment with our skilled and compassionate dermatologist. You can also email us at welcome@compassiondermatology.com or request an appointment through our convenient online form.