Dermatologist Tips: What To Know About Washing Your Face | Southlake, TX

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If you have skin problems, over washing your face can actually make things worse. You’ve heard the saying “too much of a good thing,” and this is true of skin cleansers, moisturizers and face masks, as well as chocolate and makeup.

Many women use cleanser or exfoliating skin scrubs multiple times a day, and these may be doing more harm to your skin. Dermatologists recommend washing your face once a day, as this helps to remove unwanted dirt, makeup, and oil from your face.

If you live in Southlake, TX, and are searching for a https://compassiondermatology.com/, don’t hesitate to contact Compassion Dermatology. The team of medical experts can help you to find a skincare routine or effective treatment for your skin type. They can also treat a wide range of skin conditions.

Wash Your Face Once a Day

Professionals recommend that everyone washes their skin at least once a day. This will help you to remove the build-up of oil, makeup, and dirt that will have accumulated during the day.

Most people are washing their face a lot more than they need to and using more products than at any other time in history. This is causing mass skin problems. Professionals say that most people will wash their face twice daily. This may be unnecessary; washing your face in the morning, especially if you’re using a lot of cleaners, is a waste of time as your face hasn’t had time to get dirty after your evening cleanse. Many people would argue they need to wash their face to wake themselves up, but a quick splash of water will help; just don’t start scrubbing your face with cleansers or exfoliator.

Exfoliating

Dermatologists advise people to exfoliate two or three times a week, rather than every day. This will help to remove dead cells, which will make your skin look brighter. It will also help moisturize your skin, allowing serum and SPF to be more effectively absorbed by your skin.

If you’re using an exfoliator that contains beads, this will give your skin a deeper clean. However, it would help if you used these types of products before you cleanse as cleanser helps remove the beads and make your skin look fresh.

Visit a Dermatologist

Washing your face multiple times a day can cause your skin to dry out. If you have any skin issues, it’s best to talk to a professional, find a product that works well for you and wash your face with it once a day. If you have oily or acne-prone skin, it’s best to find a cleanser that contains salicylic acid and only use it once daily. Washing your face more regularly can irritate your skin.

While some people do have oily skin, and the oil may be visible, it’s important to remember that oil on the skin is natural. Over washing your face to get rid of oil can have the opposite effect as it can stimulate the skin’s glands to produce excess oil. The natural oil that’s produced by our bodies is, in fact, good for our skin as it keeps it subtle. The oil also creates a defense barrier against external factors that your skin comes across every day, such as pollution in the atmosphere, sun cream, or make up.

Dermatologists say that the most obvious sign that you’re over washing your face is that your skin will start to feel tight and dry. You may also notice that your face starts to develop signs of sensitivity. There may be reddish, dry patches in places. This is most common on the nose, chin, and cheeks.

Skin Types

Whether your skin is dry, oily, or combination, it’s crucial to find a skincare routine that works for you. Washing and cleansing your skin well will help you to look and feel great. It can improve not only your appearance but your self-esteem. Some people even say that a visit to the doctor has changed their life. Here’s a look at the main skin types:

Normal Skin

If your skin is ‘normal,’ the oil glands will be producing sebum at a moderate rate. This will result in balanced skin. Your skin won’t feel too oily or too dry. Normal skin will appear plump, moist, and vibrant.

Dry Skin

If you have dry skin, this is likely to be caused by either underactive or inactive oil glands. Your skin won’t be producing enough sebum, which will result in a dull appearance. Your skin may feel dry, itchy, and sensitive.

Oily Skin

Oily skin appears shiny, especially across the T-zone. Many people with oily skin have enlarged pores and may also be prone to outbreaks of blackheads.

Combination Skin

Most people have combination skin, which means that their face has two different types of skin. You may have an oily T-zone and dry cheeks, for example.

Sensitive Skin Type

Sensitive skin feels delicate but can also be oily, dry, or a combination. Some dermatologists would argue that sensitive skin isn’t a skin type but is more of a skin condition. If you have sensitive skin, you may like to seek help from a professional. Those with sensitive skin may require products that are designed especially for sensitive skin or that are prescribed by a dermatologist.

Compassion Dermatology, Dermatologist

If you want to find out more about washing and cleaning your skin, you may like to speak to a professional. Many people suffer from a skin condition such as irritation, dry skin, acne, eczema, or psoriasis. Dermatologists can provide skin care advice and treatment that’s tailored to your skin type.

If you live in Southlake, TX, or the surrounding area, don’t hesitate to contact Compassion Dermatology. Compassion Dermatology is a skilled team of dermatologists and medical professionals who can give you the best treatment to help your skin to heal.

If you’re looking to improve acne scars’ appearance or reduce irritation, redness associated with any skin condition, contact Compassion Dermatology today on 817-380-5911.


Dermatologist Exfoliating Tips For Sensitive Skin | Southlake, TX

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Exfoliation is good for the skin. Most experts recommend that you should exfoliate anywhere from two to three times a week. Those with dry or sensitive skin will need to be especially careful about the type of exfoliators that they use. Harsh exfoliators can easily irritate the skin and cause it to become even drier or sensitive.

 

When looking for an exfoliator, it’s always a good idea to find one that also contains moisturizing ingredients as well. In general, chemical exfoliants are better choices than physical exfoliants for those with sensitive skin; however, there are many different exfoliators that are available that can do the job.

 

If you’re not sure what type of exfoliator to use, speak with a dermatologist. A professional can analyze the type of skin that you have using various equipment and tools to figure out the type of exfoliator that will work best for you. They’ll also be able to help design a skincare routine that’s compatible with your skin. With that said, this article will look at 7 of the best exfoliating ingredients out there for sensitive skin.

 

#1. Jojoba Beads

Although physical exfoliants are not often recommended for sensitive skin, many dermatologists will not object if you choose an exfoliant that relies on jojoba beads. Jojoba beads are non-abrasive exfoliants that are especially useful for those with sensitive skin. They’re polished, round and smooth, so they’re very gentle on the skin. In fact, they’re so gentle that you can even use jojoba beads to exfoliate your lips. Best of all, jojoba beads are an environmentally-friendly choice!

 

#2. Pumice Crystals

Pumice crystals are another type of physical exfoliant. This type of physical exfoliant is a bit more abrasive than jojoba beads. Depending on how sensitive your skin is, exfoliants that rely on this ingredient may or may not be a good choice.

 

Pumice crystals are a stronger exfoliant and a good choice for more resistive skin types. They’re a natural ingredient that can get rid of fine lines and dead skin with ease. With that said, those with sensitive skin should always be careful when using any products that contain this ingredient. Speak with a dermatologist first!

 

#3. Lactic Acid

Derived from milk and plants, lactic acid is a type of alpha hydroxy acid. When diluted in an exfoliant, this ingredient is a great choice for those with sensitive skin. It can also be used for under-the-eye areas. Some dermatologists in Southlake, TX may even use chemical peels that contain lactic acid to help those with sensitive skin get a good exfoliation while under their care. This acid is gentler than glycolic acid and is extremely versatile.

 

#4. Glycolic Acid

Glycolic acid is another alpha hydroxy acid. It’s much stronger than lactic acid. When diluted, it’s also a great everyday exfoliant. Depending on the concentration of glycolic acid that’s found in the exfoliant, it may or may not be suitable for those with sensitive skin. This is why you should only use a product that’s recommended by your doctor, as he or she will have a good idea of what your skin can tolerate.

 

#5. BHA Exfoliant

If you have sensitive skin and acne, then you should consider choosing an exfoliant that contains beta hydroxy acid, otherwise known as salicylic acid. Salicylic acid does a great job of removing dirt, dead skin cells and other impurities from your skin. It’ll also unclog your pores and remove excess sebum and oil. It’s a great ingredient to use and can have many different applications.

 

#6. Citric and Malic Acids

It can often be difficult to find exfoliators with citric and malic acids in them, as this is one of the least common exfoliants out there. This is still a chemical exfoliant, so it’s a good choice for those with sensitive skin. These two acids are able to gently dissolve the topmost layer of skin to reveal the smoother layers underneath. As these acids do remove some of the skin, it’s important that you take great caution when using them. In fact, many dermatologists may only recommend using these two acids under their care, they care about your best skin health.

 

#7. Rice Powder

Many dermatologists in Southlake, TX recommend rice powder, as it is a very gentle physical exfoliant that will not irritate the skin at all, so you can use this physical exfoliant several times a week. The texture of the rice powder will help scrub off flaky, dead skin cells, leaving your skin looking a lot more radiant. It’ll also feel significantly smoother. The powdered rice also absorbs sebum on the skin to make it look cleaner and more energized.

 

To get the best results possible from exfoliants that rely on rice powder, gently massage the product onto your skin. Take your time, as the massage will improve circulation to give you a beautiful glow!

 

Exfoliate for Smoother, Flawless Skin

To get beautiful, flawless skin, you’ll need to somehow incorporate exfoliation into your skincare routine. Finding the right type of exfoliant, however, may not be easy. If you’re not familiar with the different types of ingredients and their benefits, you run the risk of choosing the wrong product. Luckily, you can always ask a dermatologist for help.

 

The dermatologists at Cosmetic Dermatology can offer you advice on the type of products that are best fitted for your skin once they’ve completed a complete skin evaluation. The goal of the evaluation is to identify whether there are any medical issues that need to be addressed. During the evaluation, our dermatologists will evaluate moles, pigment changes, inflammation and other skin issues. They’ll also be able to address any cosmetic or aesthetic concerns that you may have to design a treatment plan that will help you meet your goals.

 

To learn more about how you can get beautiful, flawless skin, give Compassion Dermatology a call at 817-380-5911. You can also request an appointment online. We serve many areas in Texas.


After Microneedling At Your Dermatologist | Southlake, TX

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Microneedling is all the rage nowadays. It involves using a small instrument that will poke microneedles into your skin. This will “damage” your skin in a way, causing it to produce more collagen to repair the damaged areas. The microneedles don’t actually end up hurting your skin at all, but the collagen that’s produced will give you wonderful results. You’ll look younger, and your skin will look flawless!

After getting the treatment, your skin will feel a bit raw. It may be red, and it may even start to feel dry and itchy. Aftercare is very important. Here, we’ll look at 5 things you should do after getting microneedling services. If you have any questions, make sure to ask our dermatologists for clarification!

#1. Apply a Hydrating Serum to Help Your Skin Heal

Shortly after the microneedling, your skin will feel dry. It’ll start to flake, but rest assured that this means that it’s working!

The flakiness will soon subside within about a week. The best thing that you can do in the meantime is to encourage the skin to heal. Apply a hydrating serum with growth factors to help stimulate healing and to speed up the recovery. Consider applying a moisturizer over the serum in order to seal it in. Both of these products will keep your skin hydrated and replenished.

They’ll speed up recovery, so you’ll see glowing, flawless skin even sooner! If you’re not sure whether or not your moisturizer or serum is suitable, bring it in during your appointment. Our professionals will take a look at the ingredient list to make sure that you have everything you need for a speedy recovery.

#2. Avoid the Sun

Your skin is very sensitive at this time. It’s very vulnerable and can be easily damaged. You definitely don’t want to expose it to any non-beneficial situations. This means that you should avoid direct sun exposure for at least the first 7 to 10 days. This can be quite difficult if you live in Southlake, TX. After all, it feels as if the sun is always out here!

If you go out, wear a hat and try to stick to areas that are shaded. Some dermatologists even recommend staying indoors as much as possible. If you have to go out, make sure that you wear a zinc-based physical sunblock at all times to protect your skin.

You can even look for a zinc-based physical sunblock that has hydrating properties to help keep your skin as moisturized as possible. Some of these sunblocks may even be tinted, so you can forego foundation and makeup for the time being.

#3. Do Not Aggravate Your Skin

Since your skin is still recovering, most dermatologists will recommend being as gentle as possible. This might mean that you’ll have to change up your skincare routine until your skin has completely healed. Most dermatologists will recommend avoiding any active serums or acids for the first 7 days after microneedling, as they may be too abrasive for the skin. The same goes for prescription topicals and exfoliators. This includes any type of retinol products, granular exfoliants, enzymes or acids.

After microneedling, the flakiness will get rid of quite a lot of dead skin. If you had some dermaplaning done prior to the microneedling, your skin will be even more sensitive. Applying any of those products may aggravate your skin and cause it to worsen.

#4. Avoid Overstimulating the Skin

Not only do you want to avoid being too aggressive with your skin, but you also want to avoid overstimulating it. This means that you should avoid steam rooms, hot tubs and hot showers. You should also avoid doing any type of intensive exercise for the first couple of days after the microneedling.

If you have a hot shower or do some intensive exercises, you will increase blood flow to your face. This may overstimulate your skin and affect the overall results.

#5. Keep a Skin Diary to Keep Track of Your Progress

Often, it can be difficult to tell whether a skincare treatment really did help your skin. While most dermatologists will usually take before and after pictures for you to compare results, you really should try doing this on your own. Take photos of your skin each day to keep track of the progress, and keep a diary that keeps track of things that you can’t see. For example, note down if there are certain areas that feel itchy or especially dry.

This diary will help you a lot if you ever need to speak with your dermatologist again about the results of the treatment. Your dermatologist should also call you to follow up with you sometime after a week or two. This is a good time to talk about whether the treatment is progressing as you’d like. If not, your dermatologist may be able to recommend some serums or moisturizers that can help you achieve the results you want.

Give Compassion Dermatology a Call to Schedule Your Appointment

Microneedling, when done right, is not painful at all. It’s mildly uncomfortable, but this skincare treatment can do wonders for your skin. It can make you look more youthful, get rid of fine lines and wrinkles, reduce the appearance of sunspots and acne scars and more. It’s truly the holy grail of skincare treatments. No wonder it’s so popular locally.

If you want beautiful, radiant skin, this is one of the treatments that you should really look into. It will rejuvenate your skin and turn back the hands of time. Best of all, you only need to get it done every several months for maintenance.

Our dermatologists at Compassion Dermatology can walk you through the process, so you know what to expect. We will analyze your skin to see what type of skincare treatment can give you the best results! We serve many cities in Texas, including Southlake, TX. Give us a call today to schedule your appointment.


8 Skincare Dos and Don’ts | Insight from Your Trusted Southlake, TX Dermatologist

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The path to clear, smooth, healthy glowing skin begins and ends with following a few, simple dos and don’ts. For the best skin results, follow these steps from your Southlake, TXdermatologist.

Do Remove Makeup Daily

Yes—It’s been a long day, and the last thing on your mind is cleaning your face. However, the worst thing you can do to your skin is sleep with a thick layer of concealer, foundation, eye shadow, eyeliner, mascara, blush, lip liner, and lipstick still coating your face.

Your makeup picks up contaminants, such as the dirt and oil that your face encounters throughout your day. As these build up, they clog your skin’s pores, leading to acne outbreaks and blackheads. If removing your makeup nightly and still developing acne, contact your dermatologist for an exam.

Do Exfoliate Regularly 

Removing makeup and washing daily isn’t enough to keep your skin’s pores from clogging up with oil and dead skin cells. Weekly or twice-weekly physical or chemical exfoliation gives your face an extra cleansing and helps reduce acne and blackheads. It also improves your skin’s softness and glows. If you have sensitive skin or find it red and puffy following twice-weekly exfoliating, consider only doing it once per week and for further concerns, contact your Southlake, TXdermatologist.

Do Wash Twice Daily 

Get up in the morning and lightly wash away any oil or dirt accumulating from the night before. There’s no need to scrub or irritate your skin, use warm water and a cleanser, especially if you exfoliated the night before. At night, use a makeup remover and cream cleanser to clean away your long day, unclog pores, and prevent blackhead and acne outbreaks. Your dermatologist may be able to recommend the right face and body wash for your skin type.

Do Wear Sunscreen 

The sun is one of the biggest influences on our skin. While the warmth can feel great on the surface, too much can damage it and lead to greater consequences from exposure—skin cancer. The ultraviolet rays can penetrate cloud cover and even car, home, and office building windows. To prevent sun damage, always wear sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher and reapply it every two to four hours when your outside.

Additionally, consider wearing a hat to protect your scalp from sunburns. For concerns about sun exposure and burns, including suspected sun allergies, contact your Southlake, TXdermatologist, and schedule the next available exam.

Don’t Skip the Moisturizers 

After a long day in the sun, exfoliating, or removing makeup at the end of the day, massage your face and body with a thick, creamy moisturizer to rehydrate your skin. Exposure to daily elements, certain activities such as swimming, and aging zap the moisture skin. A quality moisturizer, especially one with anti-aging and wrinkle care components, can help rejuvenate it. If you have questions or concerns about dry, red, and itchy skin, call your dermatology specialist today to arrange an appointment.

Don’t Pick or Pop Zits

Yes, Dr. Pimple Popper does this for a living. However, only a dermatologist has the training and knowledge to pop zits without leading to an even worse outbreak or causing scarring. Popping pimples will leave a scab and if you keep picking at that scab, it will leave behind scars. Additionally, if you do this with papules or pustules without whiteheads, it can make the skin in the area swell, turn red, and even hurt. You can also develop severe skin conditions, such as acne cysts.

If you’re lucky enough to avoid more serious skin lesions, popping zits can cause the area of your skin to have a darker pigment, requiring additional treatment or makeup to cover different skin tones. Instead, use over-the-counter acne treatments, including products that spot treat pimples. For problems with scarring or if you think you’ve developed acne cysts, contact your dermatology specialist for an immediate appointment.

Don’t Forget to Wash Your Pillowcases 

You may not think about it, but changing your sheets and pillowcases are essential to keep your skin clean, clear, and acne-free. For the best results, change the pillow covering every three to four days. Any leftover dirt and oil still on your face when you go to bed ends up on your pillowcase. For people with acne-prone skin, consider changing it daily.

The material and the detergent you use to wash it also count. Look for cotton pillowcases instead of synthetic materials because it’s more breathable and better for reducing acne outbreaks. If you have sensitive skin, stick to fragrance-free laundry detergent and line-dry them to avoid irritating your face. You can get more help with skin sensitivity issues from your local, dermatologist.

Don’t Skip Yearly Dermatology Exams

Your annual doctor’s reviews should extend to your dermatologist as well as your primary care provider. At the appointment, they will examine your skin from the scalp to the tips of your fingers and toes, looking for unusual spots and changes in moles and other places on your body. In addition to the head-to-toe review, they may use a dermatoscope to get a closer examination of moles and other areas of your skin.

Patients with a history of cancer or a family history of melanoma might undergo more extensive screenings of the lymphatic regions. Although some checks may seem intrusive, it’s important to understand that skin cancer can develop in areas not exposed to the sun regularly, such as the soles of the feet and in inside regions of the arms and legs.

Use these steps daily to reduce acne breakouts, dry, painful skin, and keep it soft and glowing. If you have further concerns about your skincare routine or new acne or skin conditions that form or won’t go away, contact Compassion Dermatology, your Southlake, TX dermatologist, for the next available appointment.


Benefits of Exfoliating for Men and Women | Tips from Your Southlake, TX Dermatologist

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There are several steps you can take to keep your skin clear, smooth, and looking younger, even if you’re already seeing a dermatologist in Southlake, TX. Along with cleaning, moisturizing, and minimizing sun exposure, exfoliation is a safe, easy face and body care step that promotes healthier and happier skin with a natural glow.

You can exfoliate your face and body using manual tools, such as an abrasive cloth or sponge, with enzymes, and with chemical-based products. For questions on which of these methods is best for your skin type, consult with a dermatologist.

CLEARS PORES 

You have small holes all over your skin to release oil and sweat. The problem is these tiny openings clog with dead skin cells, dirt, makeup, and debris from various environmental factors. When pores fill up, it can cause whiteheads, blackheads, and dreaded outbreaks of acne. Slow cellular turnover can increase the rate of clogs, which occurs from excess stress, an unhealthy diet, and poor skincare.

If this continues to occur, speak with a dermatologist in Southlake, TX, to see if there are other solutions to reduce buildup. For specific locations, such as the chin or around the nose, there are different removal methods and products they can recommend.

REDUCES ACNE

When done correctly, removing dead skin cells and keeping your pores clear with exfoliation can reduce acne outbreaks. It’s essential to pay attention to your skin type and only exfoliate accordingly. For example, if you have sensitive skin, don’t scrub too long and limit this step in your skincare routine to once or twice a week. Many products use salicylic acid, which is excellent for clearing acne but can cause irritation for people with sensitivities.

If your skin continues to look red and puffy following a reduction in exfoliating, schedule an appointment with a dermatologist in Southlake, TX. After the acne clears, they can recommend a less abrasive exfoliator for sensitive skin.

EVENS SKIN TONE

Your outer layer of skin can vary in the shade even when your face is clean because of those clogged pores and excess dead skin cells. As people age, their skin produces less oil, leaving it drier, leading to more dead skin cells. These also cause the skin to look dull and lackluster, even after a full night’s sleep and with a healthy diet. Regular exfoliation rejuvenates the skin, making it glow and reducing signs of aging.

Patients with conditions such as eczema and psoriasis experience cell build-up at younger ages and their symptoms can worsen as they age. For help with products specific to these diseases, set up an exam to speak with your dermatologist.

IMPROVES MOISTURE ABSORPTION

When you clear away the dead cells and other dirt and oils clogging pores, your skin’s moisture absorption rate increases. The dead cells act as a barrier, blocking your skin’s ability to breathe, rejuvenate with moisture, and providing the conditions for acne and infections.

Additionally, improving absorption rates also enhances the effectiveness of skincare products. For questions on other ways to increase the efficacy, consult with a dermatologist in Southlake, TX.

SOOTHES SKIN

You want your skin to be soft and touchable from your face to your toes. Between weather and aging, this isn’t always easy, but it is possible. Regular exfoliation in your skincare routine can help soften even the most hardened skin. Use manual or chemical methods depending on your skin type, and if you have any concerns, contact your dermatologist.

Another way to keep skin smooth and improve moisture is to increase your water intake. Hydration can help your skin glow and for fewer trips to the bathroom, use a humidifier, avoid products that have alcohol, especially deodorant and soap.

BOOSTS CIRCULATION AND LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE

Exfoliating your skin regularly can help detoxify through the increase in circulation and promotes lymph drainage. This ancient technique is a form of Ayurveda medicine that removes dead cells and allows the skin to breathe, absorb moisture, and expel toxins through the body’s pores. For questions about boosting circulation through exfoliation, contact a dermatologist for an appointment.

REDUCES SKIN INFECTIONS

People that neglect skincare can develop serious inflammatory skin conditions that are both embarrassing and painful. More specifically, if you don’t wash certain areas, especially with some vigor, the dead cells that clog pores and cause pimples and other outbreaks just build up on the skin causing scaly, dark patches containing oil, moisture, dirt, sweat, bacteria, and other germs and environmental items. If this buildup gets into a cut or other open sore, it can cause dangerous bacterial infections.

Patients that have very sensitive skin and avoid cleaning all or specific areas of their face or body should schedule an immediate exam with a dermatologist that can help them reduce discomfort and get their skin, happy, healthy, and glowing again with the right care products.

On the other end of the spectrum, over-exfoliating your skin can be just as dangerous as avoiding the task. This can lead to at bare minimum, irritated skin that’s red, puffy, and painful to severe infections and even scarring from too much scrubbing or use of chemical exfoliators. To avoid this situation, don’t exfoliate daily. If you find yourself getting red and puffy, stop entirely and speak with a dermatologist.

Exfoliation is an essential skincare step for people of all ages. By perfecting this part of your routine, it’s possible to reduce acne, blackheads, and whiteheads, as well as improve your skin’s appearance and texture and minimize lines and other signs of aging.

Contact Compassion Dermatology today at 817-380-5911 or schedule an appointment online to keep your skin healthy, moist, and glowing year-round with a dermatologist in Southlake, TX.