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Prepare Your Skin for the Upcoming Winter

Fall is in full swing and the temperature is quickly dropping. With the air getting cooler and dryer, we’re here to make sure your skin doesn’t. These are some helpful hints to keep your skin healthy and moisturized this season.

Wearing sunscreen is just as important in the winter as it is in the summer. UVA and UVB rays stay strong throughout the year, and without proper skin protection, can contribute to rapid skin aging. Add extra protection on snow days – UV radiation reflects 55 percent stronger off of snow than off sand.

The heat indoors can be more drying than the cold outdoors. Space heaters, open fireplaces, and wood-burning ovens dry the air’s humidity. Invest in a humidifier to help protect your skin indoors, too.

Everyone loves a hot shower on a cold, winter morning. However, scalding water can do more harm than good by removing natural oils from the skin. Best practices are to use warm water, limit showers to five to ten minutes and pat dry your face when drying off.

Using moisturizer and lip balm consistently, especially overnight, is another essential winter practice. Buyer beware: thick lotions are not necessarily more moisturizing. Get in the habit of checking the ingredients on the lotion’s labels. Hyaluronic and lactic acid are especially effective.

Contact Knoxville Dermatology Group at (865)690-9467 to book an appointment.

How Winter Weather Affects Your Skin

The cold, dry winter months effect all skin types, but what if you are already suffering from a condition? It is important to be proactive to understand how the winter weather affects your skin condition. Here are some common skin conditions, how the weather affects it and how to better manage the symptoms.

Rosacea

Rosacea is a chronic condition that causes the face to become inflamed and remain red for an extended period of time. This can be a frustrating condition; however, it causes no internal health issues. In the winter months, your skin can be especially delicate as it fights against the harsh temperatures and conditions. Try to keep your skin covered from the elements. Wearing a scarf is a great idea, as you can pull it up to cover your nose and cheeks as you trek to your destination. It’s important to stick to your treatment plan. However, if you are experiencing more intense flushing, start applying a heavy moisturizer and talk to your dermatologist about adding something seasonal to your treatment regimen.

Psoriasis

Phototherapy and spending time in the sunlight are common psoriasis treatments. The condition causes a buildup of skin cells that leave scaly, raised patches. In addition to the patches, psoriasis can also cause small, red bumps that cover different areas of the body. Decreased exposure to sunlight can play a huge role in the increased intensity of the condition during winter months. Try talking to your doctor about phototherapy, a new psoriasis treatment, to supplement for the time lost in the natural sunlight. Another reason for the condition worsening is the dry weather. A lack of humidity in the air can cause dry skin. A way to add moisture back into the air is to use a humidifier in your home, allowing your skin to drink in a bit more hydration.

Eczema

The skin condition, eczema is commonly seen as red, irritated and bumpy skin. It is often itchy and uncomfortable. Although it is not treatable, eczema is easily managed. However, in the winter, flare-ups occur more often causing heightened symptoms due to rapid temperature changes, especially when coming indoors from a cold day. To help avoid a reaction that may cause your skin to inflame, it is important to regulate your temperature as best possible. Try keeping your heater at a low setting. While it may seem nice to walk into an incredibly warm house after being in the cold, keeping your heater at a lower setting helps your skin acclimate to the temperature more easily.

Seborrheic Dermatitis

Similar to dandruff, but with more serious implications, seborrheic dermatitis causes a red, burning scalp with flakes. However, unlike dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis can appear on your body anywhere hair is present. The dryness of the winter can cause your condition to worsen, but be sure to still follow your treatment plan. Don’t use hot water when showering, but instead use lukewarm water so your scalp does not become inflamed. Try adding a humidifier in your home so your scalp stays moisturized without adding extra products to your hair or increasing oil production.

You can’t change the weather, but you can change up your daily routine by adding some simple items to your home treatment regimen. If your skin condition is beginning to worsen, it may be caused by the weather. Talk to your dermatologist about changes in your condition and ask about different treatment options. If you suffer from one of the conditions listed above, the 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.

The Guide to Cosmetic Lasers and Laser Hair Skin Treatments

The Guide to Cosmetic Lasers and Laser Hair Skin Treatments

The Guide to Cosmetic Lasers and Laser Hair Skin Treatments

People are always on the hunt for what will keep them looking younger. Laser skin treatments are not a new trend but seem to have gained popularity over recent years. Lasers are not a one-size-fits-all treatment, but there is a treatment out there for everyone.

How Does it Work?

Lasers use light energy to resurface the skin. This light energy is very precise, and targets damaged skin cells while preserving healthy skin cells.  Along with protecting the healthy skin cells, laser skin procedures also stimulate collagen growth.

Laser Treatments can help improve:

  • skin tone and texture
  • fine lines and wrinkles
  • acne scars
  • sun-damaged skin
  • unwanted hair
  • unwanted tattoos
  • birthmarks
  • uneven skin tone
  • spider veins

Importance of Laser Treatments

Collagen production decreases as we age. This loss in collagen production leads to those pesky wrinkles and fine lines.  Laser skin resurfacing treatments are proven to help improve those fine lines and promote overall collagen stimulation. Along with treating fine lines and wrinkles, laser treatments can also target different pigments. Lasers can treat brown and red spots and improve melasma.

While most people associate lasers with cosmetic procedures, lasers have been instrumental in helping to treat certain skin conditions like acne, psoriasis, eczema, vitiligo, and even skin cancer. Laser light therapy is combined with topical agents to treat skin cancer and precancerous lesions.

Winter Skincare Tips

Winter Skincare Tips

It’s no secret that colder temps and the winter season wreak havoc on your skin. The heat you turn up to stay warm and toasty significantly dries out your skin and the frigid temperatures outside cause more dryness and cracking. To save your skin until you can crawl out of another wintery season, here are some tips to ensure you have happy and healthy skin heading into the spring and summer. dry skin treated in Kent Island, Glen Burnie, Annapolis, Leonardtown, Prince Frederick, MD

Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize. It’s imperative that you find a moisturizing product that adds a protective layer to help keep the moisture in your skin. Be sure to apply lotion and moisturizers regularly to any part of your body that may interact with cold air. For a facial moisturizer, ensure you choose a non-pore clogging (noncomedogenic) product so as not to cause breakouts.

Helping Hands. The skin on your hands is thinner and therefore more susceptible to dryness and cracking. Ensure you cover them up when heading outside with gloves or mittens and keep them well-moisturized.

Invest in a Humidifier. A humidifier rehydrates the air within your home and helps to keep your skin from drying out by redistributing the moisture evenly. Humidifiers are typically inexpensive and help to keep you and your skin healthy during the winter months.

Cut Showers Short. Long, hot showers, though relaxing and enjoyable, strip your skin of the natural oils that maintain your skin’s moisture. Help keep your skin’s natural defenses in check by shortening your showers and turning down the hot water.

The winter months are also a great opportunity to make an appointment with your dermatologist for an annual skin check-up.

What is a Pediatric Dermatologist?

What is a Pediatric Dermatologist?

Imagine this: a child has a pesky patch of skin that no matter how many times a pediatrician sees the rash, it does not seem to be improving. It might be time to visit a Pediatric Dermatologist.

Pediatric dermatologic care focuses on skin conditions that affect infants, children, and adolescents. Skin changes are frequent in children. A Pediatric Dermatologist has the qualifications to understand these changes and provide medical care as needed.

Pediatric Dermatologists treat many skin conditions prone to children: skin infections, moles, birthmarks, hives, psoriasis, cysts, rashes, acne, and warts. Additionally, Pediatric Dermatologists are trained to consider children’s individual needs. They help children feel comfortable as they are examined and treated.

Children cannot always say what is bothering them, and they cannot always answer medical questions and be asked to wait and sit patiently. That is why it is essential to see a Pediatric Dermatologist.

Pediatric Dermatologists have specialized training to recognize normal growth and development, and when to worry. Some medical disorders, such as infantile hemangioma blood vessel growths, are not found in adults – only infants and children.

Similarly, with psoriasis, it affects children differently and may show different symptoms that only a Pediatric Dermatologist would recognize. Pediatric Dermatologists are also expertly trained in pediatric medication management.

At Knoxville Dermatology Group, we have providers who are trained in Pediatric Dermatology. To schedule an appointment, please call our office or visit us online.

Men’s Skin Care Tips

Tackle Acne this School Year

Though often left out of broader health conversations, there are plenty of skincare issues that directly impact men. We feel it is important to share tips that can help the men in our lives!

Here are a few ideas to help any man improve his skin routine:

  • Invest In Your Skin: When it comes to shaving, purchasing, and using a higher quality razor is worth the investment. Cheaper drugstore razors can increase your chances of razor burn and ingrown hairs, which are not only uncomfortable but unsightly. Also, spending a few extra dollars on some pre-shave shaving gel and some post-shave moisturizer will help prevent potential discomfort of the neck and face.
  • Apply Sunscreen: Everyone should be applying sunscreen every day, and men who might think they’re “too tough for goop” are no exception! Plus, it goes without saying that a bald head is very vulnerable to the sun. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, more people are diagnosed with skin cancer each year in the U.S. than all other cancers combined.
  • Get Your Skin Checked: Men over 50 have a higher risk of developing melanoma – the deadliest form of skin cancer, than the general population and early detection is vital. Be sure to schedule a full-body skin exam at one of our locations.
  • Take Care Of Your Body: Getting enough sleep and staying hydrated is not only crucial for your general well-being and mental health but are two huge factors in keeping your skin looking and feeling its best all year round.

Invest in your skin and update your skincare products. Our offices carry medical-grade skincare products to help you update your routine. Your skin will thank you!

Tackle Acne this School Year

Tackle Acne this School Year

Acne is a pain. No one wants to go back to school with red, oily skin. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to minimize acne and maintain clear skin.

  1. Clean Slate: This is the best and most simple advice you can take for clear skin. Throughout the day, your skin picks up dirt, oil, and makeup that can clog your pores. Make it a part of your nightly routine to wash your face – your skin will thank you!
  2. Leave It Be: You’ve heard it before, but we’ll say it again. Don’t pick at your face! When you pick your skin, bacteria can get into your pores, causing more inflammation and redness. If you have a pimple, let it be! Treat it with topical acne treatment and eventually, the spot will heal on its own.
  3. Get Moving: Exercise is good for your whole body, including your skin.  Make sure you get in at least 30 minutes a day. Don’t forget to wash your face after working out!
  4. Go Natural: If you have acne, your first instinct might be to cover it up with makeup. But, giving your skin a break from harsh chemicals and oils found in concealer and foundation might have a positive impact on your skin. If you are looking for light coverage, try an oil-free BB cream.
  5. See Your Doctor: If all else fails, make an appointment to see your dermatologist. Your doctor can prescribe you topical and sometimes oral medication to help clear your acne.

If you have any questions or concerns about acne, give us a call today to schedule your complimentary consultation.

Know your ABCDE’s and get your annual skin check

Know your ABC’s this Summer and get your annual skin check

Summer is almost in full swing! Before you start laying out this beach season, be sure get your annual skin exam. Skin checks for abnormal moles or growths are basic sun safety that should be practiced year-round. Spending time in the sun can bring out freckles and spots you didn’t even know you had. It can be hard to determine which spots are normal, or if they need to be checked out. However, it is imperative that when something odd does appear gets diagnosed and treated correctly.

The skin is the largest organ of the body, and more people are diagnosed with skin cancer than any other form. Fortunately, checking our bodies for signs of skin cancer is as easy as singing the ABC’s.

  • Asymmetry: One half is unlike the other half.
  • Border: Irregular, scalloped or poorly defined.
  • Color: Varies from one area to another. Shades of dark purple, blue or black; sometimes red or white.
  • Diameter: While skin cancer varies and grows rapidly; melanomas are usually larger than the size of a pencil eraser (6mm).
  • Elevation: If your mole is not smooth or extremely raised, it could be a cause for concern.

Skin cancer tends to cause changes, so any visible change to the mole, especially over a short period of time, maybe cause for concern. If you have a concerning spot that meets any of these conditions, don’t hesitate to see a dermatologist.

Safeguard Your Skin this Summer

Safeguard Your Skin this Summer

May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month. Throughout May and June, we will be reminding you to #SafeguardYourSkin this beach season.

Long days lounging in the sun are fast approaching and we want to prepare you as best we can. Check back frequently for more in-depth coverage on skin cancer awareness and tips to protect yourself for the upcoming summer. Follow us on social media for up-to-date content, contests, and giveaways!

 

 

3 Easy Tips for Beautiful Spring-Ready Skin

3 Easy Tips for Beautiful Spring-Ready Skin

 

The fresh green of spring is symbolic of nature, growth, freshness, and fertility. Winter can have a drying effect on the skin, so spring offers a renewed opportunity to get your skin, spring-ready and back in top condition. From exfoliation to properly caring for your skin in the spring sun, here are a few tips that will lead to dew-kissed, glowing skin.

Exfoliation

Shedding winter layers also applies to the skin. Prepare your skin to look and feel its best by sloughing off the dead, clogged skin cells that have accumulated throughout the winter. Exfoliation aids in boosting the circulation of the skin. This circulation stimulates the skin and produces new skin cells, which gives the skin that radiant, beaming look.

A physical exfoliant is a body scrub or product that contains grainy particles, usually sugar or salt, providing the scrubbing feeling when used. A chemical exfoliator is the milder of the two and recommended for sensitive skin. Consult with your dermatologist to determine which is the best type for you and your skin. A dermatologist is uniquely qualified to craft a personalized skin care regimen that will yield the best possible results.

Exfoliation is one of the oldest beauty practices and has been embraced by many cultures with their own unique traditions. The Chinese would rub ground pearls across their skin to rid it of dead cells with hopes of developing an illuminating glow. A traditional Scandinavian method involved vigorously scrubbing naked bodies with cedar branches in the snow before finding refuge in hot saunas.

Although those traditional methods served their purpose at the time, less expensive (and less-rustic) practices are now the norm. Here are some things to keep in mind when exfoliating:

  • Consider your skin type. Everyone’s skin is different; thus, everyone must consider the products and methods that will be safest and the most beneficial for their specific skin type. Those with sensitive skin may want to use a soft washcloth and mild chemical exfoliator; while those with oily, thicker skin, should consider a stronger, mechanical product.
  • Review the products you already use. Certain products or medications in your daily routine may cause your skin to be more sensitive and prone to peeling. Research what you already use and consult with your dermatologist about any over-the-counter products you are using.
  • Be gentle. Gently apply products to your skin using small, circular motions for about 30 seconds, before rinsing with lukewarm water. Avoid any open wounds, sunburns, bug bites or acne breakouts as it could lead to scaring.
  • Moisturize: Exfoliation has a drying effect on the skin, so be sure to immediately apply a moisturizing product to keep the skin hydrated and nourished.

Interested in more in-depth tips, specific to your skin care needs? Click to request a complimentary skin care analysis

Hydration

It is imperative to stay hydrated for overall health reasons, but especially for your skin. After exfoliation, take extra steps to keep your skin hydrated so it will stay supple and smooth. Moisturize when you get out of the shower and before bed. Swap the heavier, moisturizing cream you’ve been using all winter for a lighter, hydrating product to create spring-ready skin.

Don’t forget to drink water. The more water you drink, the more your skin will love you and reward you with a youthful, brighter glow. As the temperatures rise, you’ll likely be sweating and spending more time in the sun. The amount of water you are supposed to drink in a day depends on your overall weight and daily physical activity, but a few extra cups a day will help as you adjust to the heat.

Sun Protection

Did we mention the sun? As the layers fall off with the warming weather, you’ll naturally want to expose more skin. It is imperative to wear sunscreen every day to best protect the skin. At the end of winter, your skin will be at its palest and most vulnerable state. This is when your skin will burn the easiest resulting in the most damage. Applying a product with at least an SPF of 30 will reintroduce your skin to the UV rays and absorb them at a healthy rate.

By making this part of your daily routine you’ll be thankful in the long run. Your spring-ready skin will age the healthiest it can, without sun damage or spots, and your risk for skin cancer will be drastically reduced.

Want to learn more about how you can get your skin ready for spring? The staff at Anne Arundel Dermatology have years of experience in recommending medical grade skin care products that deliver the best results. Visit us online or make an appointment today by giving us a call at (443) 351-3376.