How To Find A Doctor Of Dermatology | Southlake Area

Photo By PeopleImages at istock

If you’re new to the Southlake area or are searching for a doctor of dermatology to assist you with the recent emergence of a skin-related issue, you’re in luck. There are many dermatologists to choose from currently. Each brings their own experience, training, credentials, and mannerisms for you to consider. If you haven’t needed to search for a dermatology clinic to call or visit previously, you may find the process of finding the right one daunting.

Lucky for you, we’ve taken on the responsibility by creating this helpful guide for you to refer to often. As you search for the right doctor of dermatology to go to, consider the following things—the distance to and from the clinic, the types of services provided by the dermatologist, what other patients have to say about their experiences, and the types of insurance accepted by the practice. Use what you’ve learned here to find the perfect professional to work with long-term.

How to Find a Dermatologist When You’ve Never Been to One Before

Not sure where to find the best professional in the area? Never fear! You’ve got plenty of options, as illustrated below.

Here is how to find an excellent dermatologist in the area:

  • By doing a local search on Google. As long as you have access to the internet, you can perform a quick search for dermatologists that can help you. If you have a voice-activated assistant, you can ask it to provide you with search results out loud. You’ve then got less to do because you allowed Siri or Alexa to take care of your request quickly.

 

  • By asking family and friends for a personal recommendation. The people that you know that have used dermatology services are of value to you. They can give you a personal account of their experience working with a doctor. They can help you avoid going to a professional that isn’t as thorough or caring as the doctor that they prefer.

 

  • By putting Facebook’s Recommendation tool to good use. If you have access to the social media account, you can create a post that allows you to make a public inquiry about dermatologists in the area. Anyone that sees your post can comment on it and help you find the right professional to use. The great thing about this option is that you can leave the post up for however long you’d like and come back to it whenever it is convenient for you to do so.

 

  • By going to online review sites and the company’s website to look for testimonials. What other patients have to share about a doctor of dermatology can be very beneficial for you. Take some time to read the reviews and get to know what the professional does to stand out positively in the community. You’ll also get a good feel for the types of services provided by the dermatologist by reading their reviews frequently.

 

  • By using your physical phone directory. If you have a phone book readily available, you can look through it for the name of companies that provide dermatological services in the area. You can call a few phone numbers to see who is accepting new patients and to see if they will take your health insurance, too.

Now that you know how to locate potential doctors of dermatology, you can narrow down your selection to one or two candidates. The professionals that stand out the most are ones that have their patients’ best interests in mind. The next section of this guide gives you a list of qualities to look for in a dermatologist. That way, you’re 100 percent confident that you made the right decision in hiring them to take excellent care of your skin.

What to Look for in a Doctor of Dermatology in the Southlake Area

Cream of the crop dermatologists are easy to spot. They typically have a big following online through their social media accounts. They also have online reviews that are very favorable. Looking for these signs of interaction with patients are two ways to know that you’re on the right track for finding the best dermatologists to work with right away.

Here is what to look for in dermatologists:

  • The dermatologist is very knowledgeable about skin. They’re able to identify many different skin conditions that they treat in multiple ways. The skincare doctor has degrees and credentials that you can see and appreciate.

 

  • The doctor has a heart. They know how troubling a condition such as acne or eczema can be. The doctor of dermatology goes above and beyond to make you feel better about your visit. They’re a bright spot in an otherwise unfortunate scenario.

 

  • The doctor provides you with treatment options right away. They don’t let your condition worsen before giving you relief. They know that the longer they wait to treat a skin problem, the longer it will take you to heal.

 

  • The best doctor is one who takes pride in what they do. They treat you with respect and keep your visit confidential. They provide you with discreet treatment options and invite you to use their services exclusively. That way, you’re able to experience the highest level of care available.

Contacting the candidates of your choice allows you to finalize your selection to one dermatologist. You’ll then be able to set up your initial consultation and get started on treating and healing your skin. Having a professional that you trust to do the right thing for you as a patient is an incredibly empowering feeling as it allows you to get over any self-esteem issues you’ve encountered because of the appearance of your skin.

Choose a Caring and Compassionate Dermatologist Today

Compassion Dermatology is a place of healing and health. Find out for yourself what sets us apart from other dermatologists in the area. Call 817-380-5911 right away to book an appointment. You can also contact us through our online submission form located on our website.


Dermatology: Why Your Sunscreen Isn’t Working Properly | Southlake Area

Photo By kitzcorner at Shutterstock

Summer is a great time to get out and enjoy the weather, but only when it’s done safely and sensibly. Unfortunately, if you spend too much time outside without taking the time to cover up with sunscreen, you’re going to find yourself needing dermatology services in short order.

But sometimes, you make sure to bring sunscreen with you and make sure to apply it. Yet when you return to your home, you still find that you’ve gotten a sunburn.

Is your sunscreen defective? Probably not. The more likely explanation is that you made a mistake that caused your sunscreen to fail when you needed it. Luckily, when you know what the problem is, you’ve got a much better chance of stopping it before you make your next dermatology appointment. Learn what you might be doing wrong here!

You Waited Too Long to Apply

Putting on sunscreen the second you get into the sun might seem to be all you need to do, but the reality is that if you wait until you’re in the sun, you’re already too late to completely prevent sun damage. For most sunscreens, you need to apply 15 to 20 minutes before you get into the sun in order to provide full protection, because your sunscreen needs time to sink into your skin.

Any expert in dermatology will tell you that applying sunscreen the second you get into the sun is much better than doing nothing. However, waiting that long still puts you at slight risk for sun damage. If you wait until you’ve already been in the sun for a little while, the damage is likely to be even worse. Once you’ve been in the sun, you’re only protecting yourself from further damage beyond what has already occurred.

You Didn’t Use Enough Sunscreen

Using sunscreen is always a wise decision, but there’s no reason that you should be conservative with the amount that you apply. Just getting your face and back isn’t enough for you to prevent dermatology-based issues; you need to make sure that you cover every exposed part of your body with sunscreen.

Plus, you need to make sure that you’re using enough of it. Most people need about a shot glass’ worth of sunscreen to properly protect their body from the sun. If you’re in a sunny place, such as the Southlake area, you might want a little bit more to be absolutely safe. You’ll also want to make sure that you rub in your sunscreen to make sure it can get into your skin. If you don’t rub it in properly, that’s basically the same thing as failing to use enough.

You Forgot to Re-Apply

Many people who have severe dermatology issues caused by sunburns actually did think to apply sunscreen before they went out into the sun. So why did they still come home with a sunburn? Simple: they stayed out in the sun for several hours and never re-applied it.

Unfortunately, sunscreen only lasts for about an hour or two before it’s no longer effective. If you don’t take the time to re-apply your sunscreen every two hours, you’re probably going to end up with a painful sunburn at the end of the day, even if you slathered on sunscreen well before you went into the sun. Always be sure that you take some extra sunscreen with you whenever you spend a day in the sun so that you can re-apply as the day progresses.

You Have the Wrong SPF Sunscreen

It’s important for you to choose the right SPF for your skin type, depending on how easily your skin burns. If your dermatology history includes several sunburns, you probably need to go beyond the standard SPF 30 sunscreen that many people regularly use. If you have sensitive skin, a sunscreen with an SPF of 50+ can usually offer the sun protection that you need in order to enjoy your day in the sun.

However, the SPF only really matters if you’ve taken the time to properly apply your sunscreen. If you’ve applied sunscreen incorrectly, you’re going to end up with far less protection than your SPF suggests. An SPF 30 sunscreen that’s been properly applied at the correct time will always offer more protection than an SPF 50+ sunscreen that hasn’t been rubbed into your skin correctly.

Your Sunscreen Has Expired

Sometimes, your dermatology issues really were caused by your sunscreen. Unlike with some products, sunscreen expiration dates must always be taken seriously, because once they hit their expiration dates, they lose much of their effectiveness. Most sunscreens can protect your skin properly for about three years from the date of purchase, and if you regularly go out into the sun, you’ll probably never need to worry about your sunscreen expiring on you.

But if you’re the kind of person who rarely exposes your skin to the elements unless you’re going swimming, you risk opening yourself up to sunburn and other issues if you don’t make sure that you’ve got fresh sunscreen when you apply it. If your sunscreen has hit its expiration date and you have a history of sunburns, save yourself the worry of a serious skin problem and buy a fresh bottle before you go swimming. Your skin will be much better for it.

What Can You Do to Prevent Issues?

One of the smartest things you can do when it comes to dermatology is to get as much information as you can. At Compassion Dermatology, we’re happy to help you figure out exactly how to take care of your skin so that you can enjoy summer in the Southlake area without developing a sunburn or long-term skin problems. We can help you figure out what sunscreen you need to use when you go outside and other simple things you can do to help protect your skin from serious issues. Contact us today to set up an appointment!


Don’t Skip These Appointments with Your Dermatologist Even During a Pandemic | Southlake, TX

Photo By peakSTOCK at istock

During the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic, you may consider putting off the call to your dermatologist. However, the coronavirus is temporary, some skin conditions and health concerns can have long-term effects and need attention quickly. Compassion Dermatology understands your concerns and is working hard to make sure surfaces are sanitized and all staff are following strict safety protocols to prevent the spread of the viruses. While you can most likely skip non-essential appointments for micro-needling (although it’s perfectly safe to see medical professionals for these procedures), please, don’t pass on your annual skin evaluation, rashes, moles, and other potentially serious conditions.

ANNUAL DERMATOLOGY APPOINTMENTS ARE ESSENTIAL

Even if you do everything right and check every area of your body daily, which is really hard to do, you can miss something. One condition your dermatologist screens for is precancerous skin lesions, such as actinic keratosis, actinic cheilitis, cutaneous horns, and changes in existing moles. According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association, skin cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer in the U.S. and it strikes an estimated one in five Americans throughout their lifetime.

A slightly larger mole, a new bump on the back of your shoulder next to the slightly fading tattoo you got so long ago that you forget about sometimes, or even a little discoloration on the top of your foot can be a sign of skin cancer. Although it develops in areas exposed to the sun the most, the reality is that skin cancer can start anywhere on the body. While it’s easy to see what’s going on with your face, neck, arms, legs, and feet, other spots aren’t as easy to check by yourself. Additionally, it’s best to only have a licensed dermatologist examine your skin. The key to successful cancer treatment is early diagnosis and treatment.

SEVERE ACNE BREAKOUTS AND PAINFUL PIMPLES

Yes—your zit problem is also your dermatologists and they don’t want you to wait in misery, hide after lockdown ends, or experiment with your own treatments. At our office in Southland, TX, our medical staff understands the frustration and discomfort associated with acne and are available to find the right treatment that offers fast results so you won’t have to hide behind a mask if it’s no longer necessary. Depending on the severity, there are several treatments available that vary from over-the-counter products to prescription medications to slow the spread of acne, stop outbreaks completely, and prevent them from developing. You can also ask your Southland, TX, dermatologist about different therapies available, such as chemical peels and laser treatment.

If you’re experiencing a cystic pimple, which is a golf-ball-size bump under the skin, that’s red and painful. These can form when your skin’s pores are blocked with dirt, debris, oil, and dead skin cells. The practitioner will often prescribe medication that will clear the area over several weeks. However, they can perform an in-office procedure to drain large cysts and reduce inflammation quickly. Additionally, they can administer a steroid injection to further reduce swelling and prevent scarring. To prevent cystic zits, wash your face daily and exfoliate two to three times weekly.

POISON IVY NEEDS MEDICAL ATTENTION

It itches, it won’t compliment any outfit in your wardrobe, and it’ can be embarrassing. No one wants poison ivy, but it happens and sometimes you need more than calamine lotion and an antihistamine for it to clear up. The most common symptoms of poison ivy include an intense itch, a red, streaky rash, swelling, and painful blisters. Some patients can experience hives, which could mean an allergic reaction. If you have trouble breathing, seek immediate medical attention. A dermatologist in Southlake, TX, can help with prescription itch creams that are stronger than what’s available over the counter. If a secondary infection develops from excessive itching and scratching, they can also prescribe antibiotics to help it clear up faster.

YOU HAVE MASK RASH

Yes, that’s a thing. You don’t have to look far to see pictures of health care workers with skin issues from N-95 masks. Medical professionals and other essential employees are these much longer than they’re intended for, and while these are protecting the people around you, the skin irritation and moisture are a recipe for painful rashes and other types of lesions. While there are neat workarounds that some quick thinkers have developed, such as headbands with buttons to stop masks from rubbing on ears, they don’t prevent all areas where the edges are digging into workers’ delicate skin on their faces and necks.

A quick appointment with a dermatologist in Southlake, TX, can help clear up the rash and prevent future outbreaks. For example, always wash your face thoroughly after removing the mask and use an unscented moisturizer (scented items may be more irritating) at night and throughout the day as a barrier. Creams with ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide are essential for treating skin dryness and irritation. Consider using a skin barrier where the edges of the mask touch, even something as simple as petroleum jelly can reduce a rash from occurring. Another danger of leaving these unchecked is you could develop an infection that may need antibiotics. The best way to reduce the chances of developing COVID-19 is to reduce other infections and maintain a healthy immune system function.

In addition to in-person appointments, some concerns may be addressed with tele-visits from the comfort of your own home. However, most conditions require our dermatologist to see you in person for a full evaluation. This office requires all staff and visitors to wear facial coverings for your protection. For more information on our safety procedures and how Compassion Dermatology can help you contact us today, at 817-893-2670 or send us an email.


Dermatology: Preparing Your Skin for Summer | Southlake Area

Photo By Maridav at Shutterstock

If you are ready for summer activities in the Southlake area make sure your skin is healthy by seeing if there are any dermatology procedures or precautions that can be done to help you enjoy your summer. If you’re someone who has a history of skin conditions then you’ll want to pay attention to ensure that you are doing all you can to protect yourself from the beating sun and keeping yourself safe for years to come.

The One You Hear About Most

The first thing you may be thinking about to prepare yourself for summer is tanning, but that isn’t a simple dermatology cure all. Tanning on beds before summer has many risks and can actually cause more harm than good. Most professionals do their best to warn their clients that tanning beds can be harmful. They can cause more damage to your skin from the UV radiation in the bulbs and that can lead to things such as wrinkles, loose skin, brown spots, melanoma, and skin cancer. It is not recommended by dermatology experts to use tanning beds.

Sunless tanning, or procedures you may more think of as “spray tans” can be considered safe as they don’t subject your skin to UV lighting so you don’t have excess absorption into your skin. Sunless tanning can be done in a lot of places and does not take that much time to get a coloring you are hoping for. Another big plus is that the cost is generally significantly lower than tanning bed rental, which is great considering the risks you are leaving behind by not using one. The biggest dermatology risks with sunless tanning is that you need to be scrupulous about the ingredients in the bottles. There are no regulations requiring full ingredient disclosure so make sure you research brands of coloring so you know what is in them, and your dermatology specialist may be able to help you.

Preparing for Oily Skin

This one is simple, when it’s hot you sweat. That sweat can then make your skin oily and lead to breakouts or close up your pores. With the amount of sun and the average summer temperatures in the area if you are someone with a history of acne you should reach out for recommended dermatology products that are especially for you. To help prevent breakouts of acne it is recommended that you blot sweat using a clean towel or cloth. They suggest blotting because just wiping can irritate your skin and cause a breakout anyway. It is also recommended that you use oil free products on areas that may breakout like face, back, neck, and chest. The final one is just good hygiene, wash clothes that are sweaty before using them again.

Preparing for Dry Skin

Now we turn around and look at what we can do and what dermatology experts recommend for when your skin dries up in the summer. We just said that sweating leads to oily skin but things like using a chlorinated pool or staying in low humidity air conditioned environments can lead to dry and irritated skin. Professionals have a few tricks to help you. If you are using a pool make sure you shower after use and use mild cleansers. They also, without surprise, recommend sunscreen rated above 30 SPF with water resistance to ensure that pool water isn’t evaporating on your skin and drying it up. If you’re trying to stay ahead of dry skin while in the cool confines of air conditioning carry moisturizer with you and apply it after you wash your hands. It is also suggested to turn your air conditioning temperature up a few degrees to increase the relative humidity some, as air conditioning does dry the home up.

Rashes from the Outdoors

When you think of getting a rash from outdoor activities you probably think of the poisonous plants Ivy, Oak, and Sumac. There is more to the rule of “leaves of three let it be” because that only applies to certain types of Ivy and Oak. Generally poison ivy will have a larger leaf at the end of a sprig and has an oily look to it. For most poison Oak, which aren’t as common in the Southlake area, there are generally three leaves per cluster and they have rough stems. Finally Poison Sumac is generally more of a bush and leaves per stem very wildly, but you can identify them more with the berries that form and the reddish color of the new growth where the leaves are. If you believe you have come into contact with these plants, clean all your clothes and take a shower if possible right away and avoid contact with any surfaces. The more you touch the more the rash will spread. You will want to get in touch with a dermatology specialist as well so you can get advice on what medicine or treatments should be done so you can get over the issue as quickly as possible.

The other big summer rash has nothing to do with plants and all about biology. If you are someone who has had sweat glands blocked from swelling or excessive heat entrapment you may be getting a heat rash. Your dermatology expert may be able to prescribe medicine or treatment therapy to reduce the risk of this but there are some common sense items you can take care of as well. Make sure you wear light-weight and loose fitting clothing during the day. Also try to do outdoor exercises during cooler parts of the day so you don’t overexert yourself. If you have a condition that causes this heat rash try to stay inside in an air conditioned environment.

If you have questions about what summer readiness tips you should be following reach out to the experts at Compassion Dermatology in Southlake. They serve the local area and have tips and procedures you can follow to get your skin through the summer safely.


How to Choose a Dermatology Treatment That’s Right for You | Southlake Area

Photo By Dmytro Zinkevych at Shutterstock

Do you suffer from common skin conditions such as acne? Are you looking for ways to improve the condition of your skin? If you live in the Southlake area and are looking for treatment for a variety of skin conditions, don’t hesitate to contact Compassion Dermatology. The clinic can provide treatments for conditions such as acne, dermatitis, and aging skin.

Skin Evaluation

This article will give you details of some different types of dermatological treatments that are available and will help you to decide what is best for you. Before deciding on a treatment, it’s a good idea to have a skin evaluation. This can be carried out by a dermatologist or by your local doctor.

A doctor who specializes in dermatology will be able to look at your skin, both on your face and body, and will be able to recommend a treatment that will be right for you. The doctor will look at things like moles, blemishes, and spots. They will also access the general condition of your skin and may recommend treatments based on your skin type. Treatments are available for dry skin or oily skin, for example.

If your skin is aging, and you’re looking for a treatment to smooth out any wrinkles and help you to improve your confidence, you should also visit a dermatology clinic. When your skin looks and feels good, you’ll also feel good about yourself.

HydraFacial

HydraFacial is a relatively new type of facial that can help to regenerate and cleanse your face. Choosing this treatment will be a very relaxing experience. It will also improve the appearance of your skin, which could help to boost your confidence.

Hydra Facial uses modern technology, which has been designed to give the skin a deep clean. It also delivers botanical ingredients to the skin. Nutrients such as hyaluronic acid, red algae extract, zinc, and magnesium are used to improve the skin’s condition.

A hydra Facial treatment will also give your skin the antioxidants that it needs. This will help to counteract any damage that has been caused by free radicals. It helps reduce the damage caused by air pollution, sun damage, and stress.

If you are looking for long-term healthy skin and want to have a glowing complexion, choose to have a Hydra facial. After just one treatment, your skin will be visibly healthier and cleaner.

The hydra facial treatment uses your lymphatic system to remove toxins and rebuild the health of the skin. A brightening agent will also be applied to the skin to help it to regenerate. Your skin will then be filled with vitamins for nourishment, which will also plump up wrinkles and help to reduce their appearance.

Botox

Botulinum toxin or botox, for short, is a treatment that helps to reduce signs of aging. The botox injections are given to relax the muscles in your face so that any wrinkles or lines can be smoothed out. Botox works well on wrinkles, including crow’s feet and laughter or frown lines. After having Botox injections, the results will last for around three or four months.

Avoid having botox injections if you’re suffering from skin problems such as an infection or broken skin. If you have these types of issues, ask a dermatologist about other treatments that may be available. Also, avoid having injections if you are unwell in any way and especially if you have myasthenia or any other neuromuscular condition. You won’t be able to have Botox if you’re taking some medications, and it’s not suitable for pregnant or breastfeeding women.

A very fine needle is used to inject the botulinum toxin into your muscles. The therapist will ask you to rotate your head so that they can find the best places to insert the needle. A botox treatment will usually take about ten to fifteen minutes, depending on the area being treated.

After having a botox injection, you won’t see any results straight away. The botox will take around two to three days to begin working. It can take as long as two to three weeks for the desired result to take effect.

Chemical Peel

A chemical peel is a popular treatment for people who have been left with acne scars after their teenage years. Having a chemical peel will dramatically improve the condition of your skin.

Chemical peels are commonly used to treat skin conditions on the face, but it can also be used on the neck or hands. This type of facial can be used to treat a variety of skin complaints and is commonly used on acne, to reduce spots, freckles, dark patches, sun damage, and mild scars.

If you choose to have a chemical peel, a solution will be applied to your skin, which will be absorbed into the pores. After application your skin will blister and will eventually peel off. You’ll then be left with a new layer of skin that is smoother and healthy-looking.

Chemical peels are also effectively used to reduce or, in some cases, completely eliminate fine lines and wrinkles from under the eyes or around the mouth. People who have a chemical peel to reduce aging will be left with skin that’s less wrinkly then their old skin after the peeling takes place.

Dermatology, Southlake Area

If you are searching for a dermatologist in the area, don’t hesitate to contact Compassion Dermatology. The clinic provides skin evaluations, cosmetic services, and medical and surgical procedures.

Compassion Dermatology can carry out medical procedures and treatments such as Hydrafacials, chemical peels, botox, and micro-needling. They are also able to carry out SureSculpt procedures and offer treatment for hair loss.

Compassion Dermatology is located in a beautiful building, where you can rest and relax. All cosmetic and medical dermatology patients will be well looked after by the qualified staff. There’s a terra-cotta roof that has a Tuscan feel, which allows clients to relax and feel as if they are on vacation.

Contact Compassion Dermatology today on 817-380-5911.


Sunburn Dos And Don’ts: Tips From Your Dermatologist | Southlake, TX

Photo By Evgen_Prozhyrko at istock

You spent too much time enjoying the sun, and either forgot to apply sunscreen or didn’t reapply a layer after hitting the lake or pool. Either way, you’re feeling the effects of the powerful UV rays now. Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Thousands of people go to the emergency room every year for a painful sunburn. Here are a few dermatologist tips to get you through the next few days while your skin heals.

Do Stay Out of the Sun

Once you notice your skin is burning, it’s time to get out of the sun. The damage from sunburn is more than skin deep, and the danger goes deeper than a few days of lobster jokes from friends and family members. If you’re on vacation, out-and-about, and can’t just take refuge inside during the sun’s peak hours, which are daily from 10 am to 4 pm, cover-up. Your skin will reject anything tight, so avoid heavy layers and stick to shady areas next to buildings, under trees, or on the beach with a sun umbrella. Drape a towel over your head. If possible, lightly cover your head and body with a damp cotton material that’s light and cool on the skin. For tips on how to avoid the sun, speak with your dermatologist.

Do Protect Any Blisters

When your skin starts to blister, it’s not a good situation. Blisters mean you have a second-degree burn and it will take longer to heal and you have to be more careful to reduce the chances of developing an infection. Protect these areas, try not to let them rupture, and avoid picking at the skin. If you think you’ve developed an infection, contact your dermatologist.

Do Hydrate

The sun zaps the moisture out of your skin. After spending time in the sun, whether or not your skin is burning, you’ll need to rehydrate it to restore that moisture. Additionally, hydrating will reduce your skin’s healing time. Avoid gels or creams with a “cooling” effect, such as menthol that will dry out your skin more. Although it feels great at first, these will make it take longer for your skin to heal. The easiest way to quickly increase moisture is by drinking more water. For the first day or two after the sunburn, double your daily water intake to help your body recover from the trauma.

Do Apply an Aftercare Lotion

Apply a thin layer of lotion or cream intended to repair skin. Look for products that contain a broad spectrum of vitamins and minerals that help your skin heal. Although aloe vera is an excellent ingredient, your dermatologist will agree that after a sunburn, your skin needs extra help to get healthy again. Another tip to consider, don’t apply thick balms. These are ideal for protecting your skin from further damage, but they don’t allow it to breathe and can clog pores, increasing healing time. Blocking pores can also lead to other problems, such as acne outbreaks and skin infections. In addition, hydrocortisone creams are available over the counter and can help reduce swelling and pain.

Don’t Ice a Sunburn Directly

You can calm the inflammation by using a cool compress, but make sure to wrap it in a cloth. Applying ice directly to the burn can increase damage, pain, and healing time. In addition to a cool compress, you can also take a cool or room temperature bath or shower to help with the discomfort. You don’t need to limit bathing to once daily. If it’s helping reduce pain and inflammation, take a few. However, avoid water that’s too hot. This includes staying out of heated pools and hot tubs while your skin is healing. Hot water will increase the pain, inflammation, and possibly cause further damage to your skin. If hot showers are still a problem a week or more after your sunburn, contact your dermatologist.

Don’t Skip the Anti-inflammatory Meds

It’s okay to take anti-inflammatories, such as ibuprofen to reduce inflammation and pain following a sunburn. Continue to do this for a day or two following the burn. But don’t take more than recommended. For questions or concerns with swelling or pain, speak with your dermatologist.

Don’t Smother a Sunburn

The day of and for a few days after your sunburn, wear light, loose clothing. Restrictive shirts, pants, and other items can further irritate your skin. If you must be out in the sun while your skin is still healing, use an SPF 30 or higher sunscreen to avoid further damage. Like aftercare products, avoid thick and heavy sunscreens after a sunburn. Your Southlake, TX dermatologist can also recommend a brand or suggest SPF-blocking clothing to wear, such as hats, shirts, and activewear that will help protect you during your morning run or for an afternoon in the sun with friends.

Don’t Avoid Your Dermatologist

If you have blisters covering a large area or you’re experiencing extreme pain, nausea, chills, headaches, or a fever, contact a medical professional. Additionally, if the symptoms don’t improve after a week or increase, seek immediate medical attention. Other signs of infection include swelling, red streaks, and yellow pus draining from any blisters.

While sunburns are common, practitioners know that the more often they occur, the greater your chances of developing deadly skin cancers. Even with regular checkups and proactive skin care methods, 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer by age 70. Experts have determined that having five or more sunburns in your lifetime doubles your risk of developing melanoma. If you have concerns or haven’t had an annual screening, contact Compassion Dermatology your Southlake, TX dermatologist for the next available appointment.


Dermatologist Insight into the Top Causes of Skin Cancers and Treatments | Southlake, TX

Photo By kali9 at istock

Cancer is a word nobody wants to get. It attacks and destroys organs and normal body function. What a lot of people need to understand is that your skin is an organ and that it is easily susceptible to damage from outside forces. Cancer of the skin is the most common type of cancer in the United States, but it is a lot easier to treat and cure than most known cancers. This means your dermatologist can help you understand what available prevention measures and treatments are out there but first we should know what exactly can contribute to your risk.

 

What type of skin cancers are there?

There are two main types of skin cancer that your dermatologist may tell you about. The majority fall under the nonmelanoma label. Those are then broken out into basal cells and squamous cell cancers. Basal cells you may notice start forming with unusual skin growths or changing long term skin growths. You may notice these by having open sores that don’t heal or come back after originally healing. It can also show as a patch of skin changing color. It can also look more like a pimple and leave a scar like impression.

Squamous cell cancers affect the layers of skin underneath your top dermal layer. You may notice that your skin starts shrivelling up and should be looked at by your dermatologist. The more dangerous skin cancer is melanoma. It is very aggressive and can get out of control if not taken care of. You will notice that your skin starts changing color as the melanocytes in your skin start over or under producing melanin, which is used to determine your skin color, and can spread to other parts of your skin and body. They can form dark tumours and can develop anywhere on your body, no matter your natural skin tone.

 

What causes skin cancers?

Your dermatologist will probably tell you one thing to answer that question, and that’s ultraviolet light and radiation. This spectrum of light can damage your skin causing it to not heal properly and lead to skin cancers or growths. As stated before anybody can get skin cancers but the darker your natural skin cancer is the less likely it is to occur. Natural Ultraviolet radiation comes from sunlight exposure. This is what most of us think about when we get sunburned. In fact getting sunburned a lot is an indicator that you are more likely to get skin cancers. Having lighter colored eyes and hair also increases the risk of skin cancers.

The warm climate of the Southlake, TX area does not help with reducing occurrences of skin cancer. With warmer climates and more sunny days you’re more likely to be over exposed to ultraviolet radiation. Ironically up in the mountains or other high elevation areas also can increase your risk of skin cancer as there is less atmosphere to filter out the damaging ultraviolet radiation. The final natural defense against skin cancer is age. As you age the ability of your body to repair damage to it decreases and that includes your skin. Reducing your exposure as you age will reduce your risk.

Some more unique ways that skin cancer can be caused is if you or your family has a history of skin cancer. If you’ve had melanoma or nonmelanoma cancers in the past you are at an increased risk of it coming back. If you have parents or siblings that have had skin cancer then the odds are that you are at an elevated risk. Gender can also play a role. Men are more likely to get nonmelanoma skin cancers than women, but women under fifty are more likely to have melanoma than men. Your dermatologist should be able to help you understand your risk.

 

Is there anything but the sun that can cause skin cancer?

If you work with dangerous materials such as radioactive materials, arsenic, or just have increased radiation exposure at your job you increase your risk of skin cancers. Another includes tanning beds. There are a lot of tanning places in Southlake, TX and your dermatologist will probably tell you to not use tanning beds. They simulate the effects of the sun to give you a tan, or burn in some cases, but they are not filtered by the environment like normal sun exposure, meaning it is more difficult for your skin to heal.

 

What treatments are available?

There are many ways your dermatologist can work with you to treat skin cancer once it is found. You must have an open mind and will likely have to go through a long list of tests to ensure that you are on the right path for treatment. These tests can include a normal body examination or doing a skin biopsy. This requires the dermatologist to remove a small section of suspicious looking skin and have it tested by the lab to see if it has cancerous cells in it. From there the extent of the damage will likely be given a stage of harm and spread. These will set a baseline to ensure the cancer doesn’t spread to other parts of your body.

Some common ways to remove cancerous cells include more traditional surgeries that will cut cancerous tissues out, leaving the healthy skin remaining. A more advanced surgery style is Mohs surgery that removes the skin layer by layer to ensure healthy tissue remains and cancerous tissue is removed. If it is caught early enough your dermatologist may try freezing or cryotherapy to remove sections of cancerous skin, as this is less invasive. In extreme cases radiation therapy and chemotherapy may be used like more traditional cancer treatments. These will target the section or cells that have issues

 

If you’re in need of a dermatologist in the Southlake, TX area to check your skin to ensure your body is cancer free the staff at Compassion Dermatology is there for you. Doctor Holly DeBuys and her staff will help you ensure you are treated well and give you a thorough diagnostic and treatment for any of your dermatology needs.


Dermatologist and the Connection Between Dermatology and Autoimmune Illness | Southlake, TX

Photo By JodiJacobson at istock

Dermatologists are not always the first medical professionals that come to mind when we think of autoimmune diseases. Perhaps that line of thinking should be altered. They have a very important role in diagnosing autoimmune illnesses, and they’re often the first medical professionals to notice potential warning signs.

What Are Autoimmune Illnesses?

Many autoimmune illnesses affect the skin, and the skin is frequently the first organ to show symptoms. Approximately 5% of the population is affected by an autoimmune illness. These illnesses are more common in women, and people with a family history are at higher risk of developing an autoimmune illness themselves.

Diseases are characterized as ‘autoimmune’ when they are caused by the immune responses that should protect our bodies from illness and heal injuries. These immune responses overreact and target healthy skin, connective tissues, and organs.

Autoimmune Skin Disorders

Dermatologists in Southlake, TX, and the rest of the nation, are often the first doctors to identify and manage individual cases of autoimmune skin disorders including, dermatitis herpetiformis, pemphigoid, pemphigus, and vasculitis.

Autoimmune diseases affecting connective tissue include lupus erythematosus, dermatomyositis, and scleroderma. Symptoms present in different ways for each person. Common symptoms include rashes, sensitivity to sunlight, sores around the mouth, hair loss, and changes in the nails.

Sometimes people with these illnesses only develop symptoms affecting the skin, while others have symptoms affecting internal organs as well. Skin changes almost always occur first.

Dermatologists perform comprehensive skin examinations to find early signs and symptoms of autoimmune connective tissue diseases. Laboratory tests and skin biopsies help confirm diagnosis and find signs of problems with internal organs.

Rheumatoid diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, can also affect connective tissue. A common blood test detects an autoantibody called the rheumatoid factor. This test is very important because a tentative correlation exists between levels of the rheumatoid factor in blood and severity of the condition. A positive test provides a warning of potential systemic involvement or complications.

Autoimmune Blistering Diseases

Autoimmune blistering skin diseases occur when the immune system attacks proteins in the skin that hold layers of skin together. Painful blisters form on the skin and mucous membranes when those proteins are damaged or depleted. A dermatologist can usually differentiate between blisters caused by burns or injuries and blisters signifying autoimmune disease in a relatively short time.

Autoimmune blisters occur over larger areas of the body and heal much more slowly than blisters resulting from burns and injuries. Both types may cause scarring, but scarring is more extensive with autoimmune blisters.

Autoimmune blistering diseases occur in men and women equally and usually appear after age 50, although they can occur in people of all ages.

Autoimmune blistering skin diseases include pemphigus, pemphigoid, IgA-mediated bullous dermatoses, and epidermolysis bullosa acquista. These diseases often present with very similar symptoms, but there are some differences a dermatologist recognizes.

Symptoms occur on different areas of the body and manifest in different ways according to each disorder. Pemphigus causes erosion and sores in the mouth, throat, nose, eyes, scalp, or genitals. Pemphigoid is an umbrella term for several disorders that cause fluid-filled blisters, erosions, and sores on the skin and mucous membranes.

IgA-mediated bullous dermatoses also includes a group of disorders that causes blisters on the skin and mucous membranes. Epidermolysis bullosa acquista causes blisters too, but skin also becomes noticeably more fragile and loses elasticity.

Other symptoms of these illnesses include mouth pain, difficulty breathing, difficulty swallowing, bleeding in the digestive tract, and problems with vision. Treatment is a combination of corticosteroids, anti-inflammatory medications, and immuno-suppressing drugs.

Dermatologists diagnose blistering autoimmune diseases with a complete evaluation. It begins with a physical exam, review of personal and family medical history, and a discussion of symptoms.

Several diagnostic tests are used to support, confirm, or dismiss a diagnosis. Blood draws generally check for disease- specific autoantibodies. In the case of blistering diseases, the tests look for immune proteins in the skin or proteins that attack the skin.

A dermatologist performs a skin biopsy by removing a small sample of affected skin and examining it under a microscope. Direct immunofluorescence is performed on a small sample of unaffected healthy skin to identify a person’s normal immune proteins. Determining the healthy state of a person’s skin helps understand disease progression.

Treatment

Medical teams treating autoimmune illnesses often include a dermatologist, several doctors in other fields, and physical or occupational therapists. A team of professionals in different fields is valuable because these illnesses can cause symptoms affecting many different parts of the body.

Medications are used to manage symptoms and treat the underlying causes. Doctors monitor symptoms, medication side effects, and systemic manifestations to determine the most effective combination of medication and interventions.

It is important to note that most autoimmune disorders are chronic conditions. Remission can last anywhere from days to years, but autoimmune disorders can not actually be cured through medical science yet.

Topical ointments, creams, and lotions are common treatments. Some dermatologists recommend light therapy to relieve rashes and itching. Laser treatment is a fairly new procedure. They uses a highly-targeted medical laser to address affected areas on the skin.

Vitamins are a staple of treatment regimes because they help the body fight the underlying autoimmune condition. Extreme cases of scleroderma may be treated with surgical amputation or transplants.

The causes of autoimmune blistering diseases are not well understood and usually have a genetic component, but certain factors can cause outbreaks and worsen symptoms. Common triggers include specific foods, medications for high blood pressure or diabetes, antibiotics, and exposure to ultraviolet light.

The field of dermatology is much, much more than cosmetic procedures. It is a vital component of the complex health care infrastructure that helps us live healthy, happy lives. Make sure to schedule an appointment with Compassion Dermatology in Southlake, TX, even if you feel fine. Early diagnosis is beneficial and contributes to positive treatment outcomes for any autoimmune disorder, and most medical conditions in general.


What Is Acne and How To Treat It? Dermatology Answers | Southlake Area

Photo By stock_colors at istock

Acne is one of those things you may have been dealing with since your youth and may or may not have gone away. Maybe you need some dermatology help with it or just want to know more about acne so you’ll be more educated to help yourself in the future. Acne isn’t something that should be considered a youth only problem or a face only problem. It can cause bigger issues for those who suffer from it.

What Causes Acne?

Acne can be caused by a variety of issues, and based on that can be difficult to pinpoint. The American Academy of Dermatology states that it is actually the most common skin condition Americans face but it is not considered life threatening. Acne forms when your pores are blocked by oils, bacteria, dirt, or dead skin. It’s not something that happens necessarily because the person affected by it isn’t clean, but clogged pores are the basis of the issue.

What Are the Symptoms of Acne?

The most obvious one is a series of pimples or zits on a section of skin. It’s important to remember that acne is considered to be the series or repetitive instance in the same locations on a person’s body. Acne can also sometimes be painful, especially when it’s severe as the pores and nerve endings near them swell closer together. Acne is not considered life-threatening but it can affect mental health. After it clears up there is a chance of scarring that will require excess treatment.

What Types of Pimples Contribute to Acne?

Most dermatology experts will explain to you the difference between these but you may only know acne as blackheads and whiteheads. They are both the same type of pimple called comedones. The color is based on whether they are exposed to oxygen on the surface of your skin. If they are black then they are open at the surface, if they are white they are closed at the surface. Another type of skin lesions associated with acne include pustules, which are small and red filled with pus. More still are papules which are small, raised, red bumps that can include infecting the deeper hair follicles as well as pores. Nodules are solid lumps that are generally associated with pain. Finally cysts are large lumps containing pus and are generally painful.

Where Does Acne Form?

While a general answer to this can be “anywhere on the body” the most common locations are where more active hair follicles and oil glands are. These areas of the body can include your forehead, face, chest, shoulders, and upper back. These regions are the most susceptible to acne because there are higher concentrations of oil glands than the rest of the body. While these may not be the only places acne can appear your dermatology expert can guide you in the right direction to ensure it does not spread or is not able to spread to other parts of your body.

Who Can Officially Diagnose Acne?

Generally a dermatology expert can give you an official diagnosis and treatment plan. Consult with your doctor in the Southlake area and see if going to a dermatologist is the best course of action for you.

What Treatments May Be Recommended?

First off your dermatology experts may give you specific steps of self care as a first step. This is the easiest way to see if it is a light issue or if more may need to be done. From that they may go over other options in their arsenal like medication. Some common medication compounds include benzoyl peroxide which dries out pores and is an anti-bacterial, sulfur compounds which can help dry the surface of the skin, resorcinol which is used to remove dead skin cells, and salicylic acid which help keep pores clean.

These compounds can be found in many varieties of treatments. Your dermatology expert may recommend different ones based on their usage and your severity. For example oral and topical antibiotics to reduce inflammation are sometimes used in short term trials. You don’t want to be on antibiotics for too long however as you may have a decreased ability to fight infections later on. Topical creams are some of the most common ways that are used to treat acne and may require a prescription from your dermatologist. These generally work for a mass amount of cases and are where most treatments end.

For special cases other medications or treatments may be selected. If you’re a female with acne based on hormonal imbalances you may be given a hormone regulator to decrease skin oil production or be put on birth control to regulate the hormones. More extreme treatments for every person with acne may include photodynamic therapy that uses lasers to reduce bacteria and oil. Chemical peels can also be used, these are generally applied by your dermatologist and remove the top layers of your skin to clear up dead skin cells. Another process is dermabrasion which is a fast spinning, rotating brush used to remove layers of your skin.

What Does Finishing Treatment Look Like?

Most people see success when following a skin clearing plan as prescribed by their dermatologist. It may be done in as little as six weeks. If the problems you have persist or come back after they are cleared you may be prescribed a different regiment or offered an at-home kit that will keep you normal. If your acne was severe enough your dermatologist may present you with options that will help reduce the visibility of acne scarring and make sure your skin pigmentation does not vary because of it.

These items can all be discussed with your dermatology experts at Compassion Dermatology in Southlake, TX. They cover the Southlake area and will answer your questions about your specific dermatologic needs. Visit them at Compassion Dermatology to learn more and get in contact with their Dr. Holly DeBuys, and her staff.


The Best Dermatology Procedures From Your Local Dermatologist | Southlake, TX

Photo By Igor Aleksander at istock

If you have ever wondered what a dermatologist can do for you we are here to answer that today. There are many options available to you and it can depend on the area and the dermatologist. Thankfully the Compassion Dermatology Center helps those in Southlake, TX with that. These options are more than just getting a face mask or buying a cream from the counter. Seeing a quality dermatologist means you will get many options to fit your needs and budget.

Starting with the basics everyone should get an evaluation. These evaluations are generally literally from head to toe and look over things like moles, changes in skin pigment, talk about aesthetic issues you may have with questions about, and even check your hair and nails. Remember that you won’t know for sure what they can help with until you complete your evaluation.

The basic care for cosmetic services is generally what dermatologists are known for by the public. These items are your creams, serums, masks, or other topical products that you can use yourself or have applied on site. Some other options available include things like targeted botox injections or minor outpatient surgery. This may include blu light treatment to help kill acne bacteria. That procedure is a gradual one that takes about fifteen minutes at a time for a set of appointments to help clear your skin.

If you’re visiting your dermatologist for a known medical issue with your skin surgical procedures should be provided by the facility. They can help with identified cancerous and precancerous skin problems, melanoma, jaundice, or moles that have turned dysplastic, meaning there is abnormal growth. Your doctor should have consulted with your dermatologist about what they believe needs to be done and they can work together to get a correct plan for you.

Other procedures done at the office of your dermatologist may include things like microneedling with a look at skin rejuvenation. This process is used to treat the signs of aging and improve your skin appearance. This essentially triggers what they call “micro injuries” that stimulate your body’s injury response leading to new growth of skin in those areas. This procedure is a good step if you are unsure about outright botox or cosmetic surgery as this can look more natural with less medication or side effects. This isn’t to say those items are out of the question but this less intensive step may do enough so you don’t have to take that next step.

Another microneedle procedure they may use is an injection of platelet rich plasma, or PRP. Taking the next step here can accelerate the natural injury response mentioned previously with the addition of plasma from your own body. To get the platelet rich plasma they generally will take a blood sample and run it through a centrifuge to remove the red blood cells. This separation leaves you with the PRP that will be put back into your micro injections. Using platelet rich plasma is a more safe option compared to plastic surgery or outside drugs because it’s your own blood being reworked. If you don’t want to go straight to botox this is a great stepping stone to see how effective your body’s natural systems are still working for you.

Another use of PRP is for hair loss. Most people who start going bald or notice thinning hair may not think that their dermatologist can take care of their problem. By injecting the scalp with those platelet rich plasmas your hair follicles get a jump start and have been shown to improve hair health. While this is a relatively new procedure for the industry it shows a lot of promise and going forward could be one of the go to hair loss treatments in the medical world. Why would you pay for implants if you could just use your own hair.

A program that your dermatologist can use to help remove fat in your abdomen is something called SculpSure. What it does is use laser treatment on the sides of your abdomen to help remove fat in your stomach area permanently. This is actually a procedure that has been cleared by the FDA and is non-invasive. It takes less than half an hour to complete a SculpSure procedure and the results can last a lifetime. Check with your doctor and see who provides this service.

Another procedure that is a very effective option at improving your skin health is something called a HydraFacial. The HydraFacial MD® Treatment can work on many common problems that may be affecting you including your skin texture including oily skin. It can also work on correcting hyper pigmentation issues to give yourself a more even skin tone. It is also able to assist in correcting issues with the signs of aging including improving the firmness and elasticity of your skin. This procedure is a process that focuses on cosmetic issues but also has actual medical uses.

A skin cooling process called Icon is something that can fix many aesthetic issues you and your doctor may have discussed and works with the melanin in your skin. Using the Skintel® Melanin Reader it targets a small section of your skin near where the treatment is going to be applied and gives the data to your doctor to input so the Icon system can do it’s work. When those results come back the cooling system of the Icon Aesthetic System can treat issues such as acne scars, stretch marks, wrinkles, blood vessel visibility, surgery scars, and actually be used to permanently reduce unwanted hair on your body.

Getting a dermatologist in Southlake, TX shouldn’t be hard. Thankfully the friendly staff at Compassion Dermatology are here for you. Located in nearby Southlake Doctor DeBuys and her staff do their best to keep you comfortable and on task to ensure your plan best fits you. Visit them at Compassion Dermatology to see what they offer and what is available.