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Another Year, Another Skin Check

The new year brings many exciting changes. It brings us one step closer to spring and also a renewed vigor for creating healthy habits. For many, New Year’s resolutions include making health a priority. You may have decided to change up your diet or start working out regularly. These are both great ways to care for your body, but have you considered doing a regular skin check? As you go through your year, you may not remember to check for issues lurking beneath the surface of your skin. Now is the time to do a skin check.

What is a Skin Check?

A skin check is a full body scan where one looks for abnormal moles, new moles or growing moles. It is important to take note of all moles, so you can be aware when one changes or new ones appear. Your skin is your largest organ, but it is exposed to all kinds of dangers, including the sun’s harmful rays. Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer, so be proactive in scanning your skin.

How Often Do I Need a Skin Check?

Ideally, you should administer a self-check once a month. The scan should take no more than ten minutes but would save you time, money and lots of stress if you do find an irregularity.

Why? If you do happen to detect skin cancer in its early form, it can be easily cured. Sadly, one person dies from melanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer, every hour. Taking just ten minutes out of your month may just save your life.

What Exactly am I Looking For?

To make it simple and easy, we’ve come up with five things you need to look for in a mole when administering your skin check. All you have to remember are your A, B, C’s.

  • Asymmetry: If you draw a line through the center of your mole and it is not the same on both sides, this may be symptomatic of skin cancer.
  • Border: Harmless moles will have a clear and natural border, whereas moles that you need to take note of will have a blurred or jagged border.
  • Color: Healthy moles are a solid brown, with no pigment changes. If your mole is multicolored, dark purple or black, it’s time to visit the dermatologist.
  • Diameter: Bigger doesn’t always mean better. If your mole is larger than the size of a pencil eraser or growing rapidly, this could be a red flag even if it raises no other warning signs.
  • Elevation: If your mole is not smooth or extremely raised, then it could be a cause for concern.

Should I be Worried?

If any moles on your body raise a red flag from any of these A, B, C’s, it is time to visit your dermatologist and get their opinion. There is no need for panic or alarm, but it is always better to have a professional take a second look, so you don’t have to worry, or take steps to treat the irregularity.

Put your mind at ease this new year and take steps to care for yourself. By doing a skin check, you may be saving your life, not to mention time and money. If you have checked your body from head to toe and have found some concerning spots, pick up the phone and make an appointment at Knoxville Dermatology Group. The experienced dermatologists know exactly what to look for from years of caring for patients. Visit our website today or give us a call at (865) 690-9467.

Make Your New Year’s Resolution Healthy Skin

New year, new skin? The new year is a fresh chance for us to work towards the betterment of ourselves. Whether your resolution is to give up a certain vice or pick up a good habit, it’s important to focus on attainable goals that lead you to a better life. Many vow to lose weight or pick up a new activity, but in 2019, we encourage you to make a commitment to better skin health.

Your epidermis, or skin, is the largest and fastest-growing organ in your body. It’s a defense barrier to outside damages and is constantly producing new cells to replace the old. Although our skin is continuously growing, that doesn’t mean it will take care of itself. Our skin requires daily care to be certain it’s working to its’ fullest potential. For 2019, make the simple resolution of adding any of these skin care practices to your daily routine

Moisturizing Daily

Just because the calendar is growing another year older, doesn’t mean our skin has to. Adding a daily moisturizer to your skin care routine is the perfect way to start fighting against bad skin. Winter air and dry heat can leave the skin feeling dry and cracked. Moisturizers will leave your skin feeling smooth and hydrated. Their effects are proven to fight off skin problems like blemishes and wrinkles.

With just as many skin types as there are moisturizing products, it’s important to talk with a dermatologist to determine which is the best for you. If your skin is naturally oily, be sure to choose a moisturizing lotion with exfoliation properties versus a smooth cream. However, those with drier skin need creams due to the higher oil content that’s contained.

SPF All Year

You may be wondering why we’re talking about sunscreen in January. Although we aren’t actively trying to sun ourselves in the winter months, that doesn’t mean we aren’t receiving the sun’s harmful rays when we venture outside. While it’s cold, your arms and legs will be protected from the sun by your long-sleeved clothes. We suggest adding a facial sunscreen to your morning routine, especially if you spend a good amount of your day outside. The sunscreen you choose must be broad spectrum against both UVA and UVB rays, water resistant and have an SPF of at least 30. As the months warm up and you start exposing more skin, start regularly applying sunscreen to those exposed areas as well.

Clean Face Before Bed

This one is a tale as old as time, but somehow the hardest to follow. We all know how incredibly important it is to give our skin a clean rest during the night. Washing your face before bed with a cleanser takes off any dirt or heavy foundation that accumulates on your skin during the day. By sticking to this hard habit, your skin will surely thank you in a few decades.

Annual Mole Check

Maybe not the most glamorous resolution, but still one you’ll want to make a habit of. It’s important to visit a dermatologist at least once a year to check out any curious, new growths on your skin. Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer and can be deadly if left untreated. It often appears as a small blemish on you skin and can often be mistaken for something less serious.

If you notice a new mole or freckle on your skin, be sure to follow these guidelines to determine if it’s abnormal. If you aren’t sure or if you have the least bit of worry, schedule an appointment with a medical professional. They’ll easily be able to examine and test the worrisome spot to see if it’s of any concern.

Keep Up with It

We know that the hardest part of a resolution is sticking with it. If you find yourself mid-February and falling out of your new skin care habits, don’t be afraid to recommit and work for better skin. Although the first day of a new year is excellent motivation to start the things you’ve been meaning to, it doesn’t dictate as your only chance for change. Change happens daily but can only be met through persistent determination. Choosing a resolution as simple as adding a moisturizer to your everyday routine may be the start towards becoming a better you.

Need help with your resolution towards better skin? The dermatologists at Knoxville Dermatology Group have years of practiced experience in suggesting products, checking moles and creating a healthier skin to live in. To make an appointment with any of our medical professionals, visit us   or give us a call at 865-690-9467.

Got Acne? Let Us Help.

Around 40 to 50 millionAmericans struggle with acne. You aren’t alone if you struggle from the most common skin condition nationwide. Acne happens when pores become clogged with dead skin cells and bacteria, causing inflammation, swelling and redness. As it surfaces on the face, these clogged pores are often referred to as zits or pimples. However, if the inflammation is deep within the skin, you may be experiencing an acne cyst or nodule. Dermatologists treat acne all the time and should be well versed in developing a treatment plan to fit your needs. If you suffer from acne, it may be time to visit your dermatologist.

When to see your dermatologist:

If you have acne that spread across your face, get acne nodules or cysts, or just want clearer skin, it is time to visit your dermatologist. Over the counter acne treatments and solutions work for everyday cases, but if you are not seeing clearer skin after continued use, you are probably dealing with a deeper issue. Don’t wait to try every cleanser or product at a drug store before considering medical care. 

How acne is diagnosed:

First, the dermatologist will examine your blemishes to see if the issue is in fact acne, or you are suffering from a different skin condition. If you have acne, a dermatologist will most likely grade the severity of it on a scale from one to four. A grade of one signals mild acne while a grade off our signals severe acne. By identifying the severity of your acne, the dermatologist can better devise a more effective treatment plan and get you on the path to clearer skin.

Acne treatment options:

  • Topical Treatment: Topical treatments are medications applied directly to the affected skin site, like applying a spot cream. Acne TreatmentAcne TreatmentWith topic treatments, your skin can soak in the medication it needs, a stronger treatment than drugstore products, right from the source. Other topical treatments include facial washes and creams. These can help treat some other issues of acne like redness and overactive oil glands.
  • Pills or Capsules: Antibiotics, birth control and isotretinoin are three medications that work throughout the body to treat the symptoms and causes of acne. Antibiotics can be prescribed by your dermatologist and will help kill bacteria that causes the inflammation and swelling of acne. Birth control can only be used by women and must be prescribed by a gynecologist. Using birth control can help regulate your hormones which often cause acne. 
  • Light Therapy: Light therapy, or phototherapy has been shown to reveal great results in the diminishing of acne and will reduce the probability of scarring. Talk to your dermatologist to see if phototherapy is right for you.
  • Chemical Peels: Chemical peels like those administered by the dermatologists at Knoxville Dermatology Group and the adjoined MediSpa, are great for getting rid of blackheads that can turn in to acne.
  • Acne Removal: If you experience acne cysts or nodules, where the pore is clogged deep within the skin, your dermatologist may suggest a procedure to remove the cyst. This will reduce the pain of acne cysts and the chances of sca

What comes next:

Results will not appear right away, so it’s important to continue your treatment plan. Even if you experience a break out well into your treatment, remember that there is no simple fix. By sticking to your skin care routine, clearer skin will be within reach. Finally, remember to keep your hands off your face and not try and pop acne, as this may lead to further scarring. If you suffer from acne and are ready to see better results and clearer skin, see the experienced dermatologists at Knoxville DermatologyGroup. To make an appointment call  (865)690-9467 or visit our website.

Give Yourself the Gift of New Health This Year

health, beauty, resort and relaxation concept – beautiful woman in spa salon getting face treatment

In the midst of the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, it’s hard to take a moment and care for yourself. The holidays are a time for giving, so why not give yourself a gift? It’s important to take a moment before the new year to take inventory of your skin’s health and pamper yourself as well.

Why take care of your skin? Your skin is actually your largest organ. It helps protect you from the elements and help regulate your body temperature. However, because of this, your skin is extremely vulnerable. Did you know that over 20 percent of the United States population is affected by skin cancer? This is why the American Academy of Dermatology recommends getting a skin exam once per year. This is a great way to care for yourself. A skin check not only checks for skin cancer, but also marks areas that are precancerous or are cause for concern.

Knoxville Dermatology Group

Getting a skin check is also an excellent time to notify your dermatologist of any other issues that may be bothering you, such as dry skin, irritation or the development of symptoms that could lead to a more serious skin condition. During this time, you can work with your dermatologist to develop a treatment plan for any number of skin conditions. The dermatologists at Knoxville Dermatology Group are experts in over 3,000 skin conditions and have the experience to help you tackle your skin issues. This way, you can step into the new year as your best self.

MediSpa

Another way to gift yourself during the giving season is to book a pampering session at KnoxvilleDermatology Group’s MediSpa. The spa offers traditional day spa services as well as medical spa services. Traditional services include brow and lash tinting, facial waxing and facials. If you’re ready to put your skin on display in the new year, try out some of these phenomenal medical spa services, for gorgeous andlong-lasting results.

  • Juvedermâ: While Juvedermâ is mainly used to give the patient fuller lips, it has a number of great benefits to give you smooth, blemish-free skin. Benefits include a reduction in the appearance of scars, sagging and fine lines.
  • Pearl Laser: If you want those pesky sun spots and brown spots to go away, it may be time to get a Pearl Laser treatment. These treatments help lighten dark spots on the skin to give you a more even skin tone.
  • Chemical Treatments: Also known as chemical peels, MediSpa offers a number of medical grade peels, including a MediSpaprivate label peel. The treatments can improve a myriad of skin issues such as fine lines, aging, enlarged pores, acne and more.

This holiday season, take a moment to not only pamper yourself but care for your skin’s health. By having a skin check done, you can potentially save yourself from advanced skin cancer, as well as identify areas of concern. To make an appointment for a skin check, visit our website or call us at (865) 690-9467. For an appointment with ourMediSpa, please visit our website to learn more about the services provided, or call us at (865)342-5823. 

4 Common Skin Conditions Among Newborns

A new addition to the family is always a cause for joy and celebration. We know that some parents may worry more than others, especially if it’s their first. Now that the baby is here, there may be some unforeseen, but common, skin issues appearing. Some have no need for concern, but others do require your attention. Sometimes simple treatments do the trick, and others require a trip to the dermatologist. If one of the following skin issues does appear, here is how to care for your bundle of joy.

Diaper Rash

Diaper rash is very common for newborns and infants. The rash is caused by any number of things including excessive contact with fabrics, adhesives, urine, stool or with moisture even. You may notice your baby seems more uncomfortable or fussy than usual. If your baby has the red, scaly patches of diaper rash, it can be easily managed.

To prevent this rash, make sure you are frequently changing their diaper after they’ve soiled it. Clean areas covered by the diaper during each change. It’s wise to add a barrier cream or moisturizer so your baby’s skin doesn’t become dry with the wiping. If the rash persists, there are many effective, over-the-counter creams to heal and soothe the rash.

Cradle Cap

Seborrheic dermatitis, or cradle cap, appears as small, oily flakes on a newborn’s scalp. This is often caused by excessive oil production around the hair follicles. It is no cause for concern as it can naturally resolve itself.

However, there are simple treatments to help care for the affected areas and resolve cradle cap more quickly. By using a gentle, infant shampoo, the flakes can be loosened and fall off. A primary care physician can prescribe a medicated shampoo if symptoms persist. It is important to make note of the appearance of cradle cap, as it may be an indication of atopic eczema.

Atopic Eczema

If you are noticing rough, dry skin with a red color on your newborn’s cheeks, elbows or knees, it’s possible they have atopic eczema. There is no known cause for eczema, although it may stem from genetics. Eczema can be triggered by a number of things like soaps, detergents, high temperatures or dust mites. The condition may only remain through infancy or can occur throughout the newborn’s lifetime.

Eczema is extremely common and treatable, although it is not curable. For your baby, use a gentle, sensitive-skin bath soap and be sure to bathe them in cool or lukewarm water. Gently pat them dry and apply a gentle moisturizer to soothe the skin. Finally, if the symptoms persist, visit a dermatologist. They can prescribe a safe steroid to apply during a flare-up and help monitor the condition for the future.

Hemangioma

This is a type of birthmark that usually appears as a bright red, rubbery raised nodule, commonly on the face, neck or chest. Hemangiomas are actually a collection of blood vessels that have reached the skin’s surface. While a hemangioma may be present at birth, they often appear in the weeks following and grow in size.

Hemangiomas should not be a cause for concern and will reduce in size, eventually disappearing over time. However, if the birthmark is near the eyes or ears, it is important for a primary care physician or dermatologist to examine it and determine if it may impact your child’s vision or hearing. In this case, dermatologists can use laser treatments to shrink the hemangioma and protect your baby’s hearing or vision.

It is important to be proactive in treating conditions that may appear with your newborn. If you feel unsure about symptoms of your child, bring them to be examined by your dermatologist or primary care physician. If your newborn suffers from atopic eczema or has a hemangioma, the experienced dermatologists at Knoxville Dermatology Group are ready to help. Visit our website or give us a call to schedule an appointment at 865-690-9467.

Cooking this holiday season? Be sure you know how to treat minor cooking accidents.

Cooking this holiday season? Of course you are! The holidays are about two things, food and family. However, some of the most common kitchen injuries can leave you spending more time in the emergency room than around the table. Here is a list of the most common minor cooking accidents, how to treat them and when you should see a doctor or a dermatologist.

Burns

The holiday seasons are ripe with major and minor burns. The danger zones? Frying the turkey, boiling the macaroni and pulling the sweet potato casserole out of the oven, among many others. Whether the burn came from bumping over or touching a burning pan, it is important to treat the burn promptly and correctly. First, you need to determine the degree of the burn. Depending on how bad the burn is, you may have to seek medical treatment immediately:

  • First Degree Burn: Mild burn; results in pain and redness.
  • Second Degree Burn: More severe burn; damages the lower layer of the skin. A second degree burn may result in redness, swelling, blistering and pain.
  • Third Degree Burn: Most serious burn, affects all layers of skin and possibly deeper. May result in serious pain, blackened or charred skin.

The most common cooking accidents are mostly contained to first degree burns. First degree burns are also the only burn you should treat without the help of a medical professional. Although your initial instinct may be to run the burn under cold water, this traps the heat in your skin and makes the burn heal much slower. What you should do is apply a burn cream or anti-inflammatory, like aloe vera or antibiotic ointment. You can take any acetaminophen such as Tylenol to help with pain management. Be sure to regularly change out bandages and reapply creams to keep the burn sanitized.

For second and third degree burns, be sure to visit your doctor or dermatologist to receive correct burn treatment.

Cuts

As careful as you are during cooking, it’s easy to get a cut or accidentally slice your finger. Accidents happen, but it’s best to be prepared for when they do. Remember, only treat cuts yourself if they are minor flesh wounds. If you are unable to control the bleeding, visit the emergency room immediately.

If, however, you have a minor flesh wound there are three simple steps to keep in mind as you treat the cut.

  1. Clean the cut. You can clean out your cut by flushing it with a bit of rubbing alcohol or hydrogen peroxide, followed by antibacterial soap and water.
  2. Apply an antibacterial ointment like Neosporin. This will help the cut heal more quickly.
  3. Bandage cut tightly. This will allow you to keep cooking and to protect the wound from infection.

If you cut yourself too deeply and needed to take a trip to the emergency room for stitches or other wound treatment, you may develop a scar. Scar treatment looks different for everybody and is dependent on the severity of the wound. If you have scarring from a cut, a dermatologist can help you develop a treatment plan to lessen its appearance.

Eye Irritation

Eye irritation can occur during cooking, especially while preparing spicy foods or handling peppers. It is best to keep your hands away from the face during cooking and keeping them clean to avoid mishaps like eye irritation. If a bit of spice or pepper does reach your eye, causing a burning sensation, don’t panic. Most importantly, do not rub your eye. This will most likely cause more of the irritant to reach your eye, which will cause more pain. Secondly, go directly to the sink. Open your eye and begin to flush water into it. Do this until the irritant has been washed from your eye. You may experience redness after an episode like this. Using eye drops for eye irritation is okay, but the redness will recede naturally as well.

Accidents happen, so be prepared! If a more serious accident occurs, always seek medical help for correct treatment. If you have a cut or burn that leaves scarring, there are many ways to treat this. The experienced dermatologists at Knoxville Dermatology Group are ready to help you develop a treatment plan to reduce the appearance of scars and pigment irregularities. If you have a scar from a burn or cut and need help leaving it in the past, make an appointment, visit our website or call us at (865) 690-9467.

Chapped or Dry Skin? How to Protect Your Skin from Dropping Temperatures.

It’s official. The cold winter months are upon us. While the winter season means the holidays, time off and hot chocolate, it also brings some unwanted issues. Due to chilling winds and a lack of moisture in the air, skin often becomes dry or chapped. Learn how you can protect your skin from the cold and keep it happy and healthy.

Stay Moisturized

The key to keeping skin soft and smooth is simple—just stay moisturized! If your skin is chapped and dehydrated, it is probably because of the lack of moisture in the cold, winter air and the dry heat from indoor heating systems. This causes your skin to dry out and become itchy, ashy and cracked. Be sure to keep moisture-locking lotions with you at all times, including lip salve. You may want to invest in a thick overnight cream if you are really struggling with parchedness. Pay close attention to moisturizing your face, hands and knees, as these usually get the most exposure to the cold, dry air. However, staying moisturized doesn’t just mean slathering on lotion. Hydrated skin starts from the inside out! Be sure to drink plenty of water and eat water-rich foods, like greens and berries.

Add a Humidifier

As mentioned above, one of the main reasons for dry, winter skin is the dry, winter air! You may consider installing a humidifier to your home. This adds moisture back into the air, so your skin stays moisturized. Not only is it good for your skin, but it helps with issues like your dehydrated, scratchy throat as you sleep. Buying a humidifier doesn’t have to be a huge investment. While you can purchase one to be installed throughout your house, you can also buy a small plug-in humidifier for the office desk or bedside table.

Change Things Up

You may see your skin begin to change in the winter. Often, those who experience combination or oily skin, notice a change in skin texture, which is usually as a result of the chilly weather. Take note of changes in your skin and buy products accordingly. Try using more of a cream cleanser as opposed to a harsher, gel-like cleanser. This adds just a touch more hydration and is gentle on the skin.

Say “No” to Scalding

Some days, all you want to do is escape the cold and hop in a piping-hot shower! While this may seem ideal, try turning the water temperature down a few degrees. The hot water from the shower can scald your skin, making it even drier. By turning the water temperature down a few degrees, you can save your skin the pain and get plenty of the warmth. While you’re in the shower, there are great moisturizing body washes that can hydrate your skin and make you smell wonderful. If you want a more natural moisturizer, slather on a bit of coconut oil during your shower to make your skin soft and luscious.

Get Outside

It may seem like quite the hurdle to get outside, especially in the winter! However, if there’s a sunny day and the temperature rise a bit, then get outside! Your skin thrives off sun’s rays, giving you essential vitamin D. The sun is its warmest from noon to 2 p.m. so try taking a brisk walk during your lunch break tomorrow!

Seek Help

For some, the dryness of winter brings more than just dehydrates skin, it inflames existing conditions. Those who suffer from psoriasis, for example, often experience worsening symptoms during the winter. Due to cold temperatures keeping you indoors for most of the day, your skin is missing out on sunlight that often has a positive effect on psoriasis. If you struggle with psoriasis, don’t compensate with fake tanning from a sunbed. Visit your dermatologist for treatment options, like phototherapy. This is a safe alternative, administered by your dermatologist, that can help improve symptoms of psoriasis.

If you struggle from dry skin or have an existing condition which is made worse in the winter months, it’s time to see how a dermatologist can help. The staff at Knoxville Dermatology Group is well qualified and ready to make a difference in your skin health! To make an appointment, visit our website or call us at (865) 690-9467.

Identifying the Cause of Your Hair Loss

Hair loss is very common and should not be a cause for concern, as there are many viable options for renewed hair growth. However, it is important that you try and discover the cause of your hair loss. This can be done through research or talking with your dermatologist. Keep reading to discover potential causes of your hair loss.

Stress

Stress can lead to a number of health issues including thinning of the hair. Don’t let this scare you! The most important thing to do if you are experiencing this, is to take care of yourself. Try taking supplements like biotin to strengthen hair and nails. Be sure to get plenty of sleep and be gentle with your hair.

Age

The truth is, as you age, your hair ages with you. Each day, you naturally lose hair and your body replaces it with new hair growth. However, during the aging process, this new growth occurs less and less. This quite common and depends heavily on your genetic and family history. Women experiencing menopause may also see changes in hair growth, quite severely. Hair thinning or loss normally occurs during these hormonal changes. As these changes start to balance out, your hair may return back to its original state.

Family History

Genetics play an incredibly strong role in determining female and male pattern hair loss. Pattern hair loss usually affects the hairline and top of the scalp in males, and general thinning of hair in females. If you have a family history of hair loss, you are much more prone to experiencing hair loss of a similar type. Prevention for losing hair is possible, so if you believe you are more prone to pattern hair loss, or hair loss of any kind, talk to your dermatologist as soon as possible.

Hairstyle

Do often wear your hair in a ponytail, bun, braids or cornrows? This may be cause for concern, as tight hairstyles like the ones mentioned can cause traction alopecia. This is where the hair becomes loosened and begins to fall out or break due to repeated stress. If you or your child often wears hairstyles that tightly pull at the hair, consider a looser style or even decide on rocking your natural hair!

Medical Condition or Side Effect

  • Medication: Speak to your doctor or pharmacist about the side effects of medications you have be prescribed. If you are seeing overactive hair loss due to medication, there may be a different medication you can try. If not, speak to your dermatologist about ways to prevent further hair loss.
  • Alopecia Areata: Alopecia areata is a condition in which the body starts to attack its own hair follicles, causing patchy hair loss. There are no cures, but treatment options are available. Your dermatologist may be able to prescribe different options such as topical medications, steroid injections and more.
  • Psoriasis: Psoriasis on the scalp can cause red, scaly patches and the inability to grow hair in affected areas. By treating the psoriasis itself, the skin can heal and begin growing new hair once more. By talking to your dermatologist, they can create a psoriasis treatment plan that may include options like phototherapy, biologics or topical treatments.
  • Chemotherapy: During chemotherapy treatments, which are used to treat diseases like lupus and cancer, your hair follicles are inadvertently targeted. Do not be alarmed by this. It is a completely normal side effect of chemotherapy. Once treatments have finished, your hair should begin to grow back. Again, talk to your doctor or oncologist about these side effects and to learn more about chemotherapy and hair loss.

There are many reasons you may be experiencing a loss of hair or lessened new hair growth. If this is the case for you, talk to your doctor or dermatologist and learn about ways that they can help. Always remember, however, hair loss is very common and nothing to be ashamed of. At Knoxville Dermatology Group, the experienced staff can help you determine the cause of your hair loss and help you with treatment. To make an appointment, visit our website or call us at (865) 690-9467.

Don’t blush! Learn other causes of facial redness.

Does your face often get flushed, or do you constantly look like you are blushing from embarrassment? There are numerous reasons for facial redness, aside from just embarrassment! Facial redness can be caused by a multitude of issues, so don’t write it off as just redness or blushing. Read on to learn what may be causing your facial redness and when it may become time to see a dermatologist.

Psoriasis

This condition causes a buildup of skin cells, leaving raised scaly patches. In addition, psoriasis causes small, red bumps or lesions across the skin, including the face, arms, legs and buttocks. This can be a difficult condition to conceal, as it often extends across wide stretches on the visible parts of the body. People manage their psoriasis differently, by covering with makeup or using products specifically made for sensitive skin. While these are great management tactics, it is important to seek treatment for the condition, as it can lead to worsened symptoms. Luckily, psoriasis is a very treatable condition, especially with the help of a dermatologist.

Rosacea

Rosacea is a chronic condition that causes the face to get red and remain flushed for an extended period. The bright, red color is usually isolated to the chin, cheeks, nose or forehead. Management this condition may include wearing heavy makeup or staying out of the sun. Luckily, there are no internal damaging health issues that accompany rosacea. Also, there aren’t any known reasons why and how one is affected by rosacea; however, it can be easily diagnosed and treated. If you think that your chronic redness may be caused by rosacea, it’s time to visit your dermatologist.

Dehydration

Water is the most important thing your body needs. Staying hydrated is essential to having overall healthy body function, but it also helps regulate your body’s internal temperature. Dehydration can often cause redness in the face, due to your body beginning to overheat. Facial redness is a great indicator of hydration. If you are feeling overheated, find shade and drink cool water. It is very imperative to stay proactive in keeping your body hydrated. Ways to help you stay hydrated is by carrying a reusable water bottle with you or by incorporating more water-rich foods into your diet like apples or cucumbers.

Lupus

Lupus is an autoimmune disease which can affect people in different ways. Most commonly, lupus causes the body’s immune system to attack multiple organs. There is no cure for autoimmune disorders. Treatment and management of symptoms is the most common course of action. One symptom of lupus is what is known as the “butterfly rash.” This rash causes redness and swelling across the nose and cheeks in the shape of a butterfly. If you suffer from lupus, visit your dermatologist to come up with a treatment plan to manage your butterfly rash or other symptoms.

Eczema

Eczema can look different for everyone, but it is mainly seen as red and irritated skin, possibly bumpy and filled with fluid. There’s no real cause of eczema; however, it is extremely common and relatively simple to treat. In most cases, simply changing your skin care routine or taking steps towards better hygiene can help. Dermatologists can also greatly help in managing eczema, from diagnosis to treatment. If you suffer from severe eczema, a dermatologist may be able to provide prescription lotions that reduce swelling and redness.

Although these conditions may not be exactly what’s going on with your facial redness, it may help you narrow it down and understand what it could be. If you are suffering from facial redness, the experienced dermatologists at Knox Derm are ready to help. Call Knoxville Dermatology Group today at (865) 690-9467 to make an appointment to talk to one of our health care professionals.

How to Combat that Pesky Dandruff

You’ve seen it before. It’s the white, flaky dead skin on your scalp and shoulders that we wish we didn’t see! Dandruff is actually incredibly common in both men and women and is caused from a number of different things. No need to stress though, dandruff is no biggie and not threatening to your health – just annoying! Below, learn the symptoms, causes and some helpful tricks and tips on combatting dandruff!

Is This Dandruff?

Symptoms of dandruff are fairly straight forward and easy to spot: white, oily flakes of dead skin on the scalp and shoulders. It is usually accompanied by an itchy scalp. As you itch, flakes of skin loosen from the scalp and make its way from your head to your shoulders.

Dandruff vs. Psoriasis

Psoriasis is an extremely common skin condition, affecting two to three percent of the population. Usually found on the elbows, scalp, knees or anywhere that regularly experiences friction, psoriasis causes raised, red lesions. Dandruff, on the other hand, is caused by mostly external factors and only found on the scalp. It is only typified by a flaky scalp. Psoriasis is a treatable and manageable condition but can cause mild pain so you should see your dermatologist as soon as possible.

Why Do I Have Dandruff?

Dandruff is caused by multiple things, from your body’s oil production to how often you wash your hair. Often, oiliness of hair, not shampooing enough or sensitivity to hair products, will lead to the production of dandruff. Changing seasons can also heavily affect the flaking of the skin. As the weather cools, your scalp begins to dry out, leaving it susceptible to flaking.

Please, help! How Can I Get Rid of Dandruff?

  • Change Your Shower Routine

    • If you don’t shampoo your hair often enough, there is a higher chance that you will develop dandruff. Try washing your hair once or twice a week more often to help your scalp clear up and regulate oil production.

  • Try a Dandruff Shampoo

    • There are many over the counter shampoos that help combat dandruff. Shampoos with pyrithione zinc, tar-based shampoos or selenium sulfide shampoos are all great options. However, because these shampoos have stronger ingredients to clear your scalp, they may also discolor lighter or dyed hair, so be sure to rinse well!

  • Apply Tea Tree Oil

    • Tea tree oil is a highly recommended, natural remedy for dandruff. It is known to clear the scalp and moisturize the skin. You can find shampoos that incorporate tea tree oil and use it as your everyday shampoo. Another option, however, is to visit your local health shop and pick up tea tree oil to apply directly to affected areas.

  • Get Some Sunlight

    • Spending a bit more time outside has been known to decrease dandruff in many people. Sunlight helps dry some of the excess oil on the scalp. This does not mean sunbathing, as that can lead to dry skin (worsening dandruff), but just spending more time than usual in broad daylight.

  • See Your Dermatologist

    • If you experience extreme dryness or bleeding, visit your dermatologist. Sometimes, individuals can incorrectly self-diagnose the scalp’s itchy patches as dandruff, but it may in fact be psoriasis. A dermatologist can help you diagnose what the flakes really are and get you the help you need.

If you or a loved one has tried the remedies above and your dandruff persists, it’s time to see a dermatologist. The staff at Knoxville Dermatology Group is professional and approachable, great for patients of any age. To make an appointment or learn more about how Knoxville Dermatology Group can help, visit their website or give them a call at (865) 690-9467.