Microneedling: Skin Rejuvenation From Your Dermatologist | Southlake, TX

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Microneedling, also known as collagen induction therapy (CIT), has become a popular procedure in recent years for skin rejuvenation. This is likely due to the many benefits, such as reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, improving skin texture and tone, and diminishing scarring.

If you’re interested in microneedling, your first step should be to schedule a consultation with a board-certified dermatologist. They will assess your skin and determine if you are a good candidate for the procedure.

Here’s everything you need to know about this treatment before approaching a dermatologist in Southlake, TX.

What is Microneedling?

Microneedling is a minimally-invasive procedure that involves using fine needles to create tiny punctures in the top layer of skin. This stimulates the body’s natural healing process, which leads to the production of new collagen and elastin.

Collagen is a protein that gives our skin its strength and elasticity. Elastin is what allows our skin to bounce back after being stretched or pulled. As we age, our bodies produce less and less of both collagen and elastin, which leads to wrinkles, fine lines, and sagging skin.

Microneedling can help reverse this process by stimulating the body’s natural collagen and elastin production. The procedure can be performed on the face, neck, chest, and other body areas.

How Does Microneedling Work?

During a microneedling procedure, your dermatologist will use a device that contains fine needles. The needles are used to create tiny punctures in the top layer of the skin. The number of needles on the device can vary, but most devices contain between 100 and 300 needles. The depth of the needles can also vary, but they are usually inserted 1 to 2 millimeters below the surface of the skin.

What Are the Benefits of Microneedling?

Microneedling is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that can be used to improve the appearance of your skin. This treatment can reduce the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, and acne scars. The benefits of this treatment are:

Smoother Skin Texture

If you have rough, uneven skin texture, microneedling can help. This treatment can help improve the overall appearance of your skin by reducing the appearance of pores. It can help even out the skin’s surface, giving it a softer, more radiant appearance. The treatment can also help unclog pores, which can improve your skin’s overall complexion.

Helps Delivering Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)

Ask your dermatologist about PRP therapy if you’re looking for an added boost to your skin rejuvenation treatment. Platelet-rich plasma is a serum that is derived from your blood.

When it is injected into the skin, it can help to promote the growth of new tissue and collagen. This can lead to improved skin texture, firmness, and overall appearance.

Microneedling can assist PRP by creating channels in the skin that allow the PRP to be delivered more effectively.

Reduced Appearance of Acne Scars

Acne scars can be a source of embarrassment and self-consciousness. Microneedling can help reduce the appearance of acne scars by stimulating the body’s natural collagen production. This can help fill in the depressed areas caused by scarring, making them less visible.

Reduced Appearance of Wrinkles and Fine Lines

Aging is a natural process that everyone goes through, but that doesn’t mean you have to like how it affects your appearance. One of the most common signs of aging is the development of wrinkles and fine lines.

While you may be tempted to get rid of them with over-the-counter creams or treatments, it’s important to remember that the FDA does not regulate these products. This means that they may not be safe or effective.

Your dermatologist can help you achieve smoother, younger-looking skin with microneedling. This treatment uses a device to create tiny punctures on the skin’s surface. It triggers the body to produce new collagen, which helps reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.

How Many Treatments Will You Need?

The number of treatments you will need will vary depending on your individual needs and goals. Most people require 3-5 treatments to achieve the desired results. Your dermatologist will be able to give you a better idea of how many treatments you will need based on your specific situation.

Is Microneedling Safe?

Yes, microneedling is a safe and effective treatment. It is minimally invasive and does not require any downtime. You may experience some mild discomfort during the treatment, but this can be easily treated with a topical numbing cream.

The most common side effects of microneedling are redness and bruising. These side effects typically resolve within a few days. You may experience more serious side effects such as infection or scarring in rare cases. It is essential to discuss any concerns with your dermatologist in Southlake, TX, before undergoing treatment.

What to Expect After Treatment?

After treatment, your skin will be slightly red and swollen. This is normal and will resolve within a few hours. You may also experience mild bruising, which will resolve within a week or two.

Avoid sun exposure after treatment. Your skin will be more sensitive to the sun, and you may be more prone to sunburn. Use sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher when you are outside.

How We Help You

If you are interested in microneedling, the first step is to schedule a consultation with your local Southlake, TX dermatologist. They will be able to assess your skin and determine if this treatment is proper for you.

They will also be able to answer any questions you may have about the procedure and help you to understand what to expect.

If you are looking for a way to improve your skin’s appearance, microneedling may be the right treatment. Your dermatologist can help you to achieve the best possible results.

Contact Compassion Dermatology for Microneedling Treatment

Compassion Dermatology offers microneedling treatments to help improve the appearance of your skin. If you are interested in this treatment, contact us today to schedule a consultation. We would be happy to answer any questions you have and help you get started on the path to beautiful, healthy skin.

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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.

How Can Dermatology Help With Scars? | Southlake Area

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Almost everyone has scars. Scars consist of fibrous tissues that grow after a skin injury. Every injury doesn’t result in a scar. Wounds usually have to reach deeper than the skin’s outer layer to produce scar tissue. Sometimes scars are barely noticeable, but they can be uncomfortable or emotionally distressing in some cases. Fortunately, dermatology clinics in the Southlake area offer many treatment options for scars.

Types of Scars

The amount of melanin in a person’s skin and the type of scar often determines whether scars are white, red, or dark brown. Deeply red scars are described as hyper-vascular, while hyper-pigmented scars are very dark. Sometimes skin surrounding scars becomes darker due to inflammation.

Scars are a natural part of healing, but they can have negative effects. Highly noticeable or large scars can cause anxiety and lower self-esteem. Physical side effects of scars include tenderness, pain, and itching. Large or thick scars can interfere with flexibility and cause discomfort during certain movements. Wound healing can happen quickly, but large or deep wounds may need up to a year to fully heal. This means that the full extent of potential scarring isn’t always known immediately.

Hypertrophic Scars

Hypertrophic and keloid scars are the two most common types. Frequent causes of hypertrophic and keloid scars include tattoos, acne, surgical wounds, piercings, and small skin injuries such as cuts or punctures.

A hypertrophic scar appears as thick, raised tissue that forms when too much collagen is produced at the wound site. Most hypertrophic scar tissue remains within the original wound borders. Although hypertrophic scars appear red or dark brown initially, the color often fades over time.

Keloid Scars

Keloid scars can be itchy or painful. They usually grow large enough to spread outside of the original wounded area. The most common sites of keloid scars include the chest, upper back, arms, shoulders, and earlobes. They’re normally round or have irregular shapes, and people with dark skin are more likely to develop keloids. Melanin gives keloid scars a reddish color.

Contractures

Contracture scars occur after damage to a large area of skin, such as a burn or abrasion. These scars can be very deep, and they pull and tighten surrounding skin. Sometimes contracture scars can limit movement.

Surgical Scars and Stretch Marks

Typical surgical scars can be thin, white lines or thick and wide raised lines. Pitting or small depressions occur when supportive tissue underneath the skin is lost or removed. Stretch marks are scars formed by rapid stretching of the skin. They’re often associated with pregnancy and weight gain. Although stretch marks aren’t surgical scars, but they share many characteristics. Dermatology treatments for surgical scars improve visual appearance by reducing redness and thickness.

Atrophic

Atrophic scarring is characterized by sunken areas and small divots in skin. It is commonly caused by acne or chickenpox. Acne often results in three types of atrophic scars. Rolling scars are wide raised areas. A boxcar scar has a hard, thick center and pulls on the skin around it. Icepick scars tend to be very narrow, but the scar tissue can be very deep.

Scar Treatment

Effective scar treatment depends on scar type, shape, size and location. Sometimes dermatology clinics combine multiple types of treatment to obtain the best results. Dermatology professionals can also help you minimize scarring during wound healing. It’s impossible to prevent scars, but keeping wounds clean and moisturized can limit production of scar tissue. Keep wounds covered to prevent excessive exposure to sunlight.

Dermatology professionals often recommend topical creams, collagen induction therapies, injectable fillers, and laser treatments to reduce the appearance of atrophic scars. The first step in reducing acne scars is treating acne itself. Attempts to reduce scarring while acne is still active can trigger a severe outbreak, and treatment isn’t very effective if new scars form immediately afterwards.

Retinoids and Injectable Fillers

Retinoids are a topical treatment meant to encourage cell turnover, which means the dead or damaged cells are replaced by new, healthy cells. This process can improve skin texture and encourage cells to fill divots. Injectable fillers, such as Bellafill or hyaluronic acid also fill in divots and depressions. Collagen induction is also known as micro needling. A series of very small needles make tiny wounds in the skin to promote collagen replacement. Micro needling may also enhance skin strength and elasticity.

Fractionated Laser Resurfacing

Fractionated laser resurfacing is another potential treatment for scars. Laser removal is noninvasive and tends to be very effective for reducing surgical scars. Dermatology clinicians use the intense light produced by lasers to reduce a scar’s color, size and shape. Laser resurfacing removes a layer of skin cells. The procedure reduces scarring by eradicating layers of scar tissue in small increments so new skin cells can grow instead. Sometimes radio frequency devices are used in a similar manner.

Surgery

Surgical procedures can reduce the size of a scar or graft skin from another area of the body onto the scar to make it less visible. Surgery is the most invasive type of scar treatment, so surgeons carefully evaluate scars and assess risk of possible complications before considering a procedure.

Chemical Peels and Dermabrasion

Chemical peels are done in dermatology clinics in the area. A clinician applies a chemical solution to an area of skin where scarring exists. The top layer of skin is lifted away when the chemical peel is removed. The procedure should leave skin smoother as new skin cells reach the surface. Multiple chemical peels are usually necessary, especially for thick scars.

A small machine resembling a sander removes the top layer of skin through a process called dermabrasion. The procedure smoothes over thick, raised scar tissue. Thick scars may need repeated treatments.

Contact Compassion Dermatology in the Southlake area if you’re concerned about scarring. Experienced dermatology professionals can answer your skincare questions and help you explore potential scar treatment options.

How Dermatology Defeats Bad Skin | Southlake, TX

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When we think of our most important organs, we often think of our hearts or our brains. However, the skin is our largest organ. As a matter of fact, most of us are carrying around eight pounds of it, and if Southlake, TX, is like the majority of the country, less than a tenth of its citizens has bothered to seek professional help for their skin.

With the amount of information freely available on the Internet, it can be easy to take rumors as truth and incorporate them into our daily routines. While many people turn to expensive supplements, trendy skincare products, avoiding sunlight and chocolate, and other myth-based practices, dermatologists practice a specific branch of medicine that deals with cosmetic problems and diseases of the skin, making it a much more reliable solution and an ally in the fight against bad skin.

1.  Dermatology vs the Sun

Like most of the state, Southlake, TX, is characterized by unbearably hot summers, with temperatures hovering above 100 degrees for several months at a time. This type of weather dehydrates the skin and creates a buildup of oil, dead skin cells, and sweat, which also happen to be the equation for acne.

Most treatments involve a complete skin evaluation, including a thorough cancer screening and an inspection of nails and hair. This allows doctors to discover any possible medical conditions or dangerous cancers that require treatment. If you experience constant rashes or itchy skin, you should consider visiting your local dermatologist.

2. Dermatology vs Acne

Three in every four people have experienced some form of acne. It’s not commonly thought of as a dangerous or life-threatening condition, but it can make us feel unattractive or self-conscious, and the scars it leaves behind are permanent. Although our diet and climate play a role in our tendency to develop acne, so does anxiety, genetics, makeup, and the number of times we or our loved ones touch our faces each day.

In contrast to popular belief, you don’t have to have severe acne to see a dermatologist. Dermatology offers solutions to individuals who experience recurring breakouts, painful cysts, and conditions brought on by new medication.

3.  Dermatology vs Humidity

Southlake, TX has a humid subtropical climate, meaning the summers are long and wet, often punctuated by monsoons and daily thunderstorms. The increased moisture in the air causes your pores to expand, allowing them to absorb more oil and dirt than usual. A condition commonly treated by dermatology is called “tropical acne” because of the breakouts, allergic reactions, and other skin conditions associated with this subtropical climate.

Dermatologists clear pores with a device that provides a pulsed light laser to kill bacteria and a suction mechanism to remove dead skin cells and other debris from clogged pores. Most doctors recommend the regular use of mechanical exfoliation with microdermabrasion and chemical exfoliation with salicylic or glycolic acid. Your local dermatologist can determine the best treatment for you.

4.  Dermatology vs Psoriasis

Psoriasis causes patches of itchy red skin and silvery scales, typically on the knees, scalp, lower back, and face. Recent studies have shown that, while a person cannot cure the symptoms of the condition, medical treatment can reduce the environmental triggers that cause the symptoms to flare.

Your local Southlake, TX, dermatologist provides an assortment of solutions, ranging from topical to injected medications. Systemic therapies offer biologics, which are protein-based drugs that reduce the cells and immune proteins that cause psoriasis. Phototherapy is another popular procedure. It involves exposing the skin to ultraviolet light to reduce irritation and slow cell growth. In order to suppress immune activity, your doctor will determine whether you need psoralen pills to make your skin more sensitive to light.

5.  Dermatology vs Scars

Whether from acne, injury, or surgery, many individuals in Southlake, TX, are seeking medical assistance to make their scars less visible. Skincare specialists handle all types of scars, including contracture, keloid, and hypertrophic scars. Treatments generally consist of topical products, laser treatments, or surgical revisions.

Chemical peels are the simplest option. A solution is placed over the skin and, when peeled away, takes the top layers with it, allowing smoother and younger-looking skin to grow in its place.

Laser treatment is a great technique for removing surgical scars. The noninvasive procedure uses concentrated light to break down scar tissue, allowing your skin to proceed with its natural healing process.

Scar revision uses tissue expansion, skin grafts, and dermal filler to minimize and alter scars to blend in with the surrounding skin’s color and texture.

6.  Dermatology vs Cancer

Cancer is scary. Just reading the word can make your body suddenly tense. And with good reason; it’s dangerous and it’s everywhere. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, meaning that one in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime. Just to put that in perspective, that’s 9,500 people being diagnosed with skin cancer every day.

A dermatologist makes recommendations specifically tailored to you, based on your history of sun exposure, skin type, family history, and other individual risk factors. Doctors commonly use noninvasive treatment methods like cryosurgery, which destroys growths on the skin’s surface by freezing them with liquid nitrogen. Mohs surgery, a technique that involves a dermatologist removing the cancerous tissue in layers, is also a common method for treating skin cancer.

Review and Conclusion

Our skin may be the most sensitive and exposed organ on our bodies. It’s exposed to the environment’s extreme range of pollution, humidity, heat, and ultraviolet rays. Mentioned above are just six ways seeking professional dermatological can help you protect your skin, heal your scars, and treat medical conditions. Visit Compassion Dermatology to learn even more about how to treat your skin right.

Skin Trouble – 5 Common Skin Problems and Their Cures | Dermatologist in Southlake, TX

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Do you have bags under your eyes? Is your skin starting to acquire fine lines and wrinkles? Has acne been haunting you since you were a teenager?

Skin is a fickle surface that is exposed to various elements in the atmosphere. As a result, residues of dirt and oils accumulate on the skin. Skin problems are extremely widespread in the general population and can be numerous in nature. Since skin problems are so common, you may prefer to treat them yourself. However, even for recurrent and ordinary issues, professional care and consultation is always a better option.

For residents of the Southlake area, there are multiple dermatological options available in case of a skin health issue. You can easily contact a dermatologist in Southlake, TX, to maintain skin health.

The dermatologist will be able to recommend customized treatments based on the severity of your problem, your skin type and tone, your lifestyle, the hormonal balance in your body, and your medical history.

With the help of any dermatologist in Southlake, TX, skin problems can then be easily fixed. Here are some examples of skin problems that may require you to consult a dermatologist.

1. Acne

Pimples and acne are legitimate skin concern for most people. They can be recurring, serious problems or even temporary inconveniences. In any case, the presence of acne is caused by the clogging of oil glands on your skin’s surface.

Acne can refer to whiteheads, blackheads, pus-filled pustules or simply red bumps. These can appear on your face, your back or other parts of your body.

Acne can be very common and are caused by hormonal imbalances or exposure to bacteria, dirt and humid weather.

Because acne is so common, especially in humid weather, you may rely on at-home, daily skincare routines. However, you should always consult a dermatologist in Southlake, TX, before taking steps to implement skincare routine.

Chemical-based treatments, such as masks, should be done after professional consultations because amateur measures may end up damaging the skin even more.

Dermatologists can recommend creams, facials, or long-term treatment to reverse skin damage from acne. They can even use the latest technology to clear out clogged pores.

2. Marks and Scars

Scarring can be a major issue. Marks or scars can result from skin damage due to injury, acne or stretch marks.   Not to worry though, you can contact a dermatologist in Southlake, TX, to reverse or fix skin scarring.

If you have serious scarring especially after a recent injury, it would be smart to seek dermatological care. Any dermatologist in Southlake, TX, can recommend scarring treatments to minimize scarring from a wound.

For acne scars, a dermatologist may call for chemical peels to reverse permanent damage. They may also recommend a skincare regime that will prevent further acne problems.

Stretch marks are caused by the stretching of the skin as body mass accumulates. It can be reversed through skin-tightening or light-based treatments as well as take-home cream-based treatments.

3. Rashes

If you are experiencing a rash or are generally prone to rashes, you must consult with a dermatologist about the status of your skin health.

Rashes can be identified as irritated, red, itchy and swollen skin on any part of your body that suddenly appears after ingesting an irritant or being exposed to it.

Rashes are primarily caused by exposure to irritants or allergens. You can get rashes if you touch a germ-infested surface or cat hair, for instance. Dermatologists can identify the cause of rashes and provide you with measures to treat and prevent them.

Rashes can also be caused by plants like poison ivy in which case dermatological care and creams should be sought immediately.

Leaving rashes to their own devices may cause unnecessary skin damage. Rashes and skin damage from rashes should be immediately treated by any dermatologist in Southlake, TX.

4. Skin Aging

Skin aging can happen with the passage of time as fine lines and wrinkles show up. What’s more is that it can happen prematurely if the skin has been exposed to the sun or dry weather.

Any dermatologist in Southlake, TX will tell you that skin aging is preventable as well as reversible. Most skin aging problems happen due to neglect, especially if you do not use sunscreen or moisturizers.

The use of dermatologist-approved eye creams and anti-aging formulas and treatments can go a long way in preventing fine lines and wrinkles.

Professional measures like Icon Aesthetic System and Micro-needling can reduce wrinkles, as well. Furthermore, dermatologists use facials and Botox treatments can also reduce the presence of fine-lines and wrinkles.

5. Dark Spots

You may notice that there are dark spots on your body in certain areas. Dark spots may symptoms of internal health problems like hormonal issues.

As a result, dermatologists in Southlake, TX, will tell you dark spots are not to be taken lightly and should be diagnosed as soon as possible. Dark spots might also be a sign of weathering. They can occur as a result of daily skin neglect while outside, leading to sun damage.

Dark spots can also be caused by reactions to different skin products. Discoloration on your underarms, for example, can be a result of reactions to hair removal techniques or deodorants. Furthermore, dark circles may occur under the eyes if you do not drink enough water or get enough sleep. They are often temporary and may just require some creams and sleep.

They may also be hereditary and permanent, as well. If that’s the case, you may require injections and long-term treatments.  A dermatologist in Southlake, TX, can easily provide facial treatments and care for any of these concerns.

Seek Professional Help

If skin problems like dark spots are landing you in a dark spot, it might be time to seek professional help. Dermatology can prove crucial to your skin’s health and recovery. Regular appointments and treatment options can reverse the effects of skin problems like acne, dark spots or wrinkles. If you are seeking a dermatologist in Southlake, TX, you can contact Compassion Dermatology at 817-380-5911.