Skip to main content

Knoxville Dermatology Group - Knoxville Dermatology Group

West KnoxvilleClick for Directions
SeviervilleClick for Directions
865-690-9467     Request Appointment 

 

  • About Us
    • Our Team
    • Employment
  • Services
    • Our Services
    • Patient Resources
    • Patient Portal
    • Glossary
  • Meridiem DermSpa
    • Meridiem DermSpa
    • Online Store
  • Contact Us
  • Physician Referral
    • General Derm Referral
    • Mohs Surgery Referral
  • Patient Portal
  • Pay Online
  • Pay Online

Update Your Sun Safety – Tips to follow this Summer

July 1, 2020

Update Your Sun Safety – Tips to follow this Summer

One in five Americans will develop some form of skin cancer before the age of 70. While we all enjoy being outdoors during this fun and relaxing time of year, dermatologists are compelled to encourage our patients to practice sun safety in order to reduce the health risks associated with the summer sun. While the most common forms of skin cancer can be cured with surgery, some forms of skin cancer, such as melanoma, can be deadly.

There are a number of critical steps that can be taken to protect oneself from the sun’s damaging rays during these summer months.

Steps to follow:

  • Your sunscreen should have an SPF of 30 or higher, should be water-resistant and provide broad-spectrum coverage.
    Apply sunscreen 15-20 minutes before going outside. It takes time for the sunscreen to fully absorb into the skin.
  • Use One (1) ounce (approximately one full shot glass) of sunscreen. One ounce is needed to cover all exposed areas of the body.
  • Just because you apply a higher SPF, it doesn’t mean you can stay in the sun longer or reapply less often.
  • Toss your sunscreen after a year. Expired lotion doesn’t provide proper protection because the chemicals become inactive over time.
  • Don’t forget your ears, scalp, lips, and the tops of your feet. These areas are very prone to sunburn and, ultimately, skin cancer.
  • Use sunscreen specifically designed for the face. Your facial skin can be more sensitive to irritation and face sunscreens account for that.
  • If using a spray sunscreen, remember to rub it in, and then spray again to ensure there are no missed spots.
    Use products containing zinc oxide and titanium oxide for sensitive skin. These ingredients are safest to use in young children and infants.
  • Reapply every 80 minutes, even if you’re using a water-resistant formula. This is just as important as applying it initially.
    Wear protective clothing that is made with Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) fabric. It indicates what fraction of the sun’s ultraviolet rays can penetrate the fabric. Many styles and types of fabrics are available that can be comfortable, look great, and keep the skin protected.
  • Look for wide-brimmed hats and high-quality sunglasses that block UVA and UVB rays.
    In addition to these sun safety measures, check your skin every few months and see a dermatologist if you notice anything changing, growing or bleeding/not healing. Our professionals are dedicated to helping you remain active, vital, youthful, and, above all, healthy.

Importance of Skin Checks

June 3, 2020

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, medical offices are back to being fully open for healthcare needs. While it is always important, the start of Summer is a perfect reminder to practice sun safety. While most of the country was in some stay at home order, many people canceled or skipped their annual skin cancer screening.

Dr. Richard Pfau, a co-founder of Anne Arundel Dermatology and its Affiliates, states: ‘in these unprecedented times, it is still important that people do not put off potentially lifesaving skin cancer screenings. On average, 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer by the age of 70. Getting screenings regularly allows for early detection, and most skin cancers are highly treatable when detected early.’ It is important to schedule your annual skin cancer screenings as the Summer months approach, so our providers can proactively help with any skin damage or findings that may need to be addressed further.

Previously, the American Cancer Society had encouraged patients to postpone their nonessential screenings. Now, they have changed their response to the coronavirus pandemic. The American Cancer Society is now urging patients to return to seeking cancer screenings if they feel safe about visiting their health care providers.

While skin cancer can be highly treatable when detected early, some forms of skin cancer can be life-threatening – and putting off your dermatology appointment could put your life at risk. The State Government stated in May that elective procedures are now able to be resumed. From this, our offices have taken additional steps to protect our patients (link: safety and protocols page) while they are in our offices.

We put your safety first. As medical professionals, we are trained to place our patients’ well-being and safety above all else. That commitment to your health and safety is driving every decision made during this challenging time.

Steps We Are Taking To Protect Our Patients

April 29, 2020

Steps We Are Taking To Protect Our Patients

As medical professionals, we are trained to place the well-being and safety of our patients above all else, and that commitment to your health and safety is driving every decision made during this challenging time. We are closely monitoring all developments related to the Coronavirus (COVID-19), and we are strictly adhering to all guidelines issued by the Center for Disease Control (CDC), World Health Organization (WHO), and our local and state governments.

Our pledge to patients is to be here for care you know is essential. Patients and practices are free to elect necessary medical services and procedures that may have been delayed. We will continue to provide a safe and comforting office experience for all patients needing dermatologic services.

Though restrictions are easing, we remain committed to ongoing safety and prevention of illness transmission. You need to know what our clinic sites are doing to protect everyone:

  • Everyone must wear a face mask. Patients may wear cloth masks and should have them on when they come into the office. Masks are required for adults and minor patients as outlined in executive orders from our governors. Wearing a mask may prevent the spread of small droplets, so please follow our lead and wear a mask throughout the visit whenever possible.
  • Everyone must wash hands or use hand sanitizer when entering and leaving the office. Please use the sanitizer provided, as you see our staff and providers doing. It is the most helpful prevention measure in the infection control arsenal! Hand sanitizer, tissues, and lined trash receptacles may be found in every waiting area and clinic room for use by our patients.
  • Patients must be screened at each visit for fever and flu symptoms. We perform the same screenings for every staff member, every day. Anyone with a fever or flu symptoms will be asked to reschedule the appointment. Patients with special risk, such as persons over 65 or persons with chronic health conditions, may wish to stay at home and use our convenient telehealth program.
  • Patients will notice posters at the office about COVID-19. These are meant to educate and advise about how to limit the spread of the virus. Every member of our staff has also received CDC generated written educational information about COVID-19, and about personal protective equipment. Policies and postings are changed as guidelines evolve.
  • Special physical distancing measures are now being taken, so please be patient with us when we do not get close to you or shake your hand. Please understand when we limit numbers in reception areas or we ask you to wait in the car to prevent office congestion. Please do not bring children under 12 or any others with you when you come for a visit. No one other than the patient and a required caregiver may be in the office. Sometimes these safety practices will add to the time it takes to complete your visit. Thanks for your understanding that our practices are meant to keep you safe and healthy.
    We have always prided ourselves on a clean, safe office environment. Now more than ever, cleaning and disinfection is of paramount importance. EPA registered cleaning materials are used frequently throughout the day on all surfaces in exam rooms, waiting areas, labs, and office spaces. High touch surfaces like door handles, exam chairs and tables, and restrooms are given special attention.
  • Our waiting areas no longer offer magazines, pamphlets, or children’s toys, since those items are difficult to clean and disinfect.

Be assured we remain fully prepared to evaluate and care for all of our patients, and we are taking all possible precautions to protect our patients, their families, our staff, and our communities. Thank you for your support and cooperation with these efforts as, together, we face this unprecedented public health challenge.

Seasonal Allergies and Your Skin

April 18, 2019

As the weather begins to change, bringing lots of light and warmth, your skin will begin to change with it. You may start to notice small differences from the warmer temperatures or that your sweat glands working overtime. However, did you know that your seasonal allergies also have an effect on your skin?

What are Seasonal Allergies?

Allergies are chronic and occur when the immune system sees a substance as harmful and overreacts to it. This causes individuals to experience a number of reactions, ranging from mild to fatal. Allergies are unique to individuals, meaning different people suffer from a different mix of allergies. It’s also possible to not suffer from allergies at all if you happen to be one of the lucky ones.

Commonly known as hay fever, seasonal allergies occur during different times of the year, like spring, summer, and fall. This is generally when plants pollinate, causing higher pollen counts in the air. They are different from normal allergies in the way that they only affect an individual at certain times of the year. If you suffer from seasonal allergies, it is important to be aware of the ways they can cause new issues for your skin as well as irritating existing conditions.

Skin Conditions and Seasonal Allergies

Eczema

Research shows a link between eczema and allergies. While eczema resembles an allergic reaction, it is not directly caused by allergies. However, allergies can cause flare-ups in those who suffer from the condition. Once you’ve come into contact with the allergen, your immune system starts to overreact which causes your skin to exhibit a reaction similar to that of eczema. Seasonal allergens include dust mites and pollen. A dermatologist can diagnose and treat symptoms associated with eczema.

Hives

Also known as urticaria, hives are caused by a number of different triggers and are symptomatic of red, raised and itchy patches of skin. Hives can last anywhere from a few hours to a couple of weeks. One common trigger is an allergen coming into contact with the skin. Seasonal changes bring about higher counts of pollen, which means you are at a greater risk of coming in contact with a potential irritant.

Dryness

Skin dryness is not directly caused by seasonal allergies but often occurs as one suffers from the adverse effects of allergies. Allergies can cause the nose to run and the eyes to water. This means that you may use tissues to wipe your nose more often than your sensitive facial skin can handle. Chapping and dryness around the nostrils can be uncomfortable and often painful. Some ways to avoid drying out the skin when your allergies are causing your nose to run is to use tissues with lotion, apply a salve regularly or even apply a layer of petroleum jelly to the area to keep the skin protected. Your dermatologist can recommend products specific to your skin type and needs.

Seasonal allergies can cause an array of new issues for skin and cause existing conditions to worsen. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, suffer from seasonal allergies or are seeing flairs ups of existing conditions, it is time to call your dermatologist.

Meet the Injector – Brittany Conrad, RN, LE

February 25, 2019

Brittany Conrad, RN, LE is a Registered Nurse and Licensed Aesthetician. During her time in Aesthetics school, Brittany learned about cosmetic injectable techniques, including Botox and dermal fillers.

  • What should I expect from my injector?

The patient should expect a calm relaxing environment, first time patients can be a little nervous at thought of getting injected. As a provider it is my job to make sure they are thoroughly informed and comfortable with what will happen during the procedure before we begin.

  • What is your favorite area to inject?

I like to inject Botox in the upper face and doing what is known as a chemical brow lift on patients. It’s truly remarkable to see the before and after when a patient comes in for a follow up.

  • What is the most popular area you treat?

It would once again be the upper face area with Botox and typically a patient will come in wanting their glabella (in between the eye brows) and forehead lines diminished since they tend to be over expressive with those muscles a lot.

Brittany Conrad, RN, LE is currently accepting cosmetic patients at our Sevierville and Knoxville locations. For more information and to schedule an appointment, please call 865.690.9467.

Lip Exfoliation 101

February 21, 2019

Winter has come and so have dry, chapped lips. Combat these lips by treating your lips right and exfoliating. The skin that makes up the lips is very thin, thinner and more delicate than other skin on the body. Because of this, moisture evaporates more quickly and dries the skin out, leaving the lips rough and blistered. Additionally, lips don’t have sebaceous glands which help keep the skin hydrated. Since the skin has no means of natural exfoliation, the skin continues to build up and crack, especially during the winter when there is already little moisture in the air.

To help this, use a soft toothbrush and lip scrub mixture to exfoliate the dead skin off once a week. Follow the exfoliation with a rich lip balm that contains SPF 30 or greater to hydrate the lips back up. Make sure to not exfoliate too hard and leave the lips red and raw. Exfoliating and moisturizing will help the lips from dryness, swelling, burning and bleeding.

Sources:
https://www.vogue.com.au/beauty/skin/how-to-properly-exfoliate-your-lips/news-story/8fda5c0c756db858d2df52f4b59cc7e7
https://www.byrdie.com/how-to-exfoliate-lips
https://www.nivea.com.au/skin-care-tips/face-care/exfoliation/how-to-exfoliate-lips
https://stylecaster.com/beauty/how-often-to-exfoliate-your-lips/

Winter Skin Protection

February 13, 2019

Winter outdoor activities are a great way to make the most of the cold months. Learn how to take the proper precautions and keep your skin healthy this winter.

Layer up

Winter weather can change constantly throughout the day. Wear breathable layers for regulating body temperature. Don’t forget to protect your hands with gloves and a hat and scarf. Consider wearing a ski mask, which will cover up most of your face. Bring an extra pair of socks in case your pair gets wet.

Hydrate and Moisturize

Don’t skimp out on sunscreen and moisturizer this winter. Re-apply sunscreen SPF 30 or greater every two hours, especially if skiing or snowboarding is on the agenda. Make sure to also use a lip balm with sunscreen to protect your lips. Another important place skiers and snowboarders tend to forget to apply sunscreen is their nose.

Be Sun-Savvy

Remember, you can still get sunburn in the winter! Snow acts as a mirror and reflects the sun’s rays, so you are exposed to them twice. Additionally, Higher elevations lead to stronger UV radiation. Wear goggles or sunglasses that help protect against UVA/UVB rays but also the wind. More often than not, that ‘windburn’ is really sunburn.

Sources:
https://aadermatology.com/how-to-protect-your-skin-this-winter/
https://deteroutdoor.com/blog/skin-care-tips-skiers/
https://www.healthyessentials.com/beauty-solutions/winter-sports-skin-protection-tips

Dermal Fillers In Men

February 7, 2019

The use of dermal fillers is a great, non-invasive alternative to surgical facelifts and improves the appearance of the skin. The use of fillers in men has increased due to awareness of non-invasive procedures. While dermal fillers have increased in popularity amongst the male community, male patients are still concerned about feminization. The approach to male aesthetics is different from females. Dermal filler treatments are tailored to the natural male structure and beauty.

Men and women are structurally different. Men naturally have thicker skin and larger bones. Men’s foreheads are larger overall, and their eyebrows are flatter than women’s. Their cheeks are flatter and have more of an angle rather than women’s cheeks which are rounder and fuller. There is more volume loss in men’s lower lips verses their upper lip, which is more common in women.  Another common treatment area is the jawline. Men want a wider and well-defined jaw while women tend to have narrower, v shape jaws. Other common areas for men’s dermal fillers include cheeks, around the eyes and temples, and nasolabial folds. It is important to find a skilled injector that listens to individual needs and has training in all dermal fillers.

At Knoxville Dermatology Dermatology, our skilled injectors are knowledgeable and extensively trained in all dermal fillers. To schedule your consultation to see how dermal fillers can benefit you, please visit our website.

Hyaluronic Acid: What’s the Big Deal?

February 6, 2019

Hyaluronic Acid (HA, as you might see on your skincare labels) is an ingredient everyone is buzzing about – but what is it? Hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring molecule found in the body used to retain moisture – leaving the skin plump, healthy and hydrated. While the body is able to produce HA, it is an added benefit when applied topically. One gram of Hyaluronic acid is equal to six litres of water. That’s super-hydration for the skin! HA also has the ability to regulate moisture within the skin cells to make sure the cells aren’t ‘drowning’ and leaves the skin smooth and soft. Hyaluronic acid can be found in the form of serums, supplements, and topical injections. Many dermal fillers are Hyaluronic Acid-based.

In addition to the hydrating benefits, Hyaluronic acid helps fine lines, wrinkles and a gives a radiant glow.  Properly hydrated skin is plump and diminishes the look of fine lines. Hyaluronic acid is safe for all skin types, even acne-prone and sensitive skin. When injected, HA can help with osteoarthritis, a degenerative joint disease due to normal use of the joints. Add the hydrator as the last step in your beauty regimen, right before your moisturizer.

At Knoxville Dermatology Group, we have beauty experts who can help assist and get you on a proper skin care regimen. To schedule a beauty consultation, please visit our website.

Sources:
https://www.elle.com/uk/beauty/skin/a35378/what-is-hyaluronic-acid-and-how-does-it-work/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3583886/
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/hyaluronic-acid-benefits#section3

Lip Fillers 101

February 5, 2019

Lip fillers are a great, non-surgical procedure to enhance your natural look. Since 2000, lip injections have shown staggering growth and increased popularity. Over time, the lips and lines around the mouth thin and lose their shape. Juvéderm® is a popular dermal filler brand that help add volume and are hyaluronic acid based. Read more below about the common lip fillers from the Juvéderm® families.

Juvéderm

Juvéderm has two popular options for lip fillers: Juvéderm® Ultra XC, and Juvéderm® Volbella XC. Both are FDA approved for lip augmentation. Juvéderm® Ultra XC adds more fullness and plumps thin lips. It also helps with smoothness, softness and overall structure of the lips and mouth.

However, Juvéderm® Volbella XC is a soft, smooth gel injectable which adds subtle volume to the lips and smooths vertical lip lines. Additionally, Juvéderm® Volbella XC helps add fullness to already great lip-structure and smooths and improves texture of the overall lips. Both Juvéderm® Ultra XC and Juvéderm® Volbella XC have been shown to last up to a year with optimal treatment.

Results are seen more instantly with both Juvéderm® Ultra XC and Juvéderm® Volbella XC, but full effects can be seen within a few days after treatment. Similar to Restylane® Silk, Patients can swell at first due to the lidocaine but the swelling subsides within a few days

Safety

Juvéderm® Ultra XC was FDA approved in 2011 as a dermal filler, and became FDA approved for the lip augmentation in 2015 for patients over 21. Juvéderm® Volbella XC gained FDA approval in 2016 for use in the lips for lip augmentation and for correction of perioral lines in adults over the age of 21. Patients should talk to their provider if they have a history of allergies to lidocaine or hyaluronic acid, bleeding disorders or anaphylaxis. ­ Both Juvéderm® Ultra XC and Juvéderm® Volbella XC are only available through a licensed provider. Like Restylane®, there are minor side effects to Juvéderm® lip injections, which include:

  • Redness
  • Swelling
  • Bruising
  • Tenderness
  • Itchiness
  • Dryness

More serious side effects are rare, but include:

  • Skin color changes (hyperpigmentation)
  • Infection

You may be at increased risk of side effects if you are a smoker, have a bleeding disorder or have any inflammatory skin conditions. Make sure to talk to your provider and discuss any medications that could increase the chance of infection. Patients who are breast feeding, pregnant, or trying to become pregnant should also talk to their provider as the safety has not been studied. For more information, read the full patient safety information for Juvéderm Ultra XC and Juvéderm Volbella XC.

We offer Juvéderm® family dermal fillers. To schedule your appointment and see which dermal fillers are right for you, please visit our website or call us at 865.342.5823 (Knoxville) or 865.868.4683 (Sevierville).

Sources:

https://www.healthline.com/health/restylane-vs-juvederm-lips#overview

https://www.restylaneusa.com/restylane-silk

https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/galderma-launches-restylane-silk–first-and-only-fda-approved-filler-indicated-for-lip-enhancement-and-treatment-of-perioral-lines-300027638.html

https://www.juvederm.com/juvederm-ultra-xc

https://www.allergan.com/news/news/thomson-reuters/juv-derm-volbella-xc-approved-by-u-s-fda-for-use-i

  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • …
  • 18
  • Next Page »

RECENT POSTS

  • Prepare Your Skin for the Upcoming Winter November 25, 2020
  • 3 Quick Non-Surgical Fixes To Look Your Best September 1, 2020
  • Update Your Sun Safety – Tips to follow this Summer July 1, 2020
  • Importance of Skin Checks June 3, 2020
  • Steps We Are Taking To Protect Our Patients April 29, 2020

Search Knoxville Dermatology

  • About Us
    • Our Team
    • Employment
  • Services
    • Our Services
    • Patient Resources
    • Patient Portal
    • Glossary
  • Meridiem DermSpa
    • Meridiem DermSpa
    • Online Store
  • Contact Us
  • Physician Referral
    • General Derm Referral
    • Mohs Surgery Referral
  • Patient Portal
  • Pay Online
  • Pay Online
West Knoxville123 Fox Road
Knoxville, TN 37922
Sevierville 657 Middle Creek Road
Sevierville, TN 37862
Follow Us on FacebookFollow Us on TwitterFollow Us on RSS