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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.

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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!

 

 

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Top Reasons To Protect Yourself from Counterfeit Beauty Products

It’s hard to resist a good deal. While the price may be enticing and the ease of delivery is taunting, how do you know what you’re purchasing is authentic? Counterfeit beauty products are more common than ever and continue to be sold online. Check out our tips below on how to protect yourself from counterfeit beauty products online.

  1. Look Closely

Pay attention to packaging. Counterfeit beauty products do a scary-good job at mimicking your favorite skincare serum. Look for any irregulates in the font, coloring of the packaging or placement of stickers. In addition, look at expiration dates on the packing. All cosmeceutical companies are required by law to have the shelf life of the product on the packaging.

Related: 3 Easy Tips for Beautiful Spring Skin

  1. Do your research

Most of the time if a deal seems too good to be true, it is. Skin care companies work with authorized retailers and have this list available on their website. Double check their list of approved vendors before purchasing. Stray away from online marketplaces where you can’t be sure who the vendor is and if they got the product directly from the retailer. Often, counterfeit products contain harmful ingredients which can lead to life-long skin damage.

  1. Purchase from your dermatologist

To best protect yourself, purchase your skin care products directly from your dermatology office. Your provider will go over your skin care routine with you and make sure what you are using is working to best protect your skin.

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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.

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Skin Care Tips For Every Age

Skin Care Tips For Every Age

Our skin evolves with age. Your skin isn’t the same in your 60’s as it was in your 20’s.  Should you be worried about acne or wrinkles? What can you do at your age to benefit your skin later? Your skin care routine should evolve as you age.

20’s & 30’s

Fighting acne is the main concern, especially in your 20’s. Water-based, oil-free wash is a safe staple to keep in your medicine cabinet. Keep your skin free of dirt and oil by removing makeup, washing your face and start a basic skin care regimen with a moisturizer and antioxidant every day. Wearing sunscreen every day will also help protect your skin from premature aging, even in the winter. This will help the signs of aging that begins to develop in your 30’s. Start using anti-aging lotion and vitamin A as soon as possible. Vitamin A helps smooth wrinkles and combats the signs of aging.

40’s & 50’s

The skin loses some of its texture and fullness in your 40’s. Wrinkles and age spots begin appearing as well. Products with peptides in them even out pigment and increase collagen growth. An estrogen drop in your 50’s may dry out your skin and decrease its elasticity. Combat this symptom of hormonal changes with glycolic acid, which helps increase skin cell production and turnover. Additionally, introduce a heavier treatment cream high in ceramides and natural cholesterol to replenish dry skin into the routine.

60+

Expand your skincare regimen to include all skin aspects. Apply SPF every day to keep the sun from advancing sun aging. Use cleansers that won’t dry out your skin and products with hydroquinone to help eliminate dark spots on the face hands. Keep up with your regular routine and continue to wash your face and apply your products daily.

 

Need some extra advice on what to include in your skincare routine? Visit one of our dermatologists.

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Seasonal Allergies and Your Skin

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.

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It’s time to spring clean your skin routine!

Spring has finally sprung! Get your spring skin care routine down pact with these helpful hints.

Declutter

Out with the old products, in with the new products! Clean up your skin care routine this spring and throw away any old products you haven’t used recently. Chances are, you aren’t going to be using them anytime soon and could use the counter space. Also, chances are if it hasn’t been used in over a year it’s expired. 

Make the Switch

Give your skin a break and use a lighter, water-based moisturizer. During the winter, you combatted dry, flakey skin with hydration and moisturize and now it’s time to let your skin breathe. Use something less emollient and oil-free to keep breakouts at bay.

Sunscreen

Chances are, the first time you see the sun this spring you’re going to want to break out that bathing suit and try to build your base tan. Resist the urge and lather up with SPF instead. The skin isn’t used to how strong the sun is in the springtime, so it is more prone to getting sunburn. Apply SPF 30 or greater every two hours for best sun protection.

Add Vitamin C

Springtime tends to make skin more red, itchy and irritated. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that is scientifically proven to help reverse the signs of photoaging and help stimulate new collagen growth and help with skin irritation and sensitivity.

Remember, for every $250 you spend on products this April, you’ll receive One (1) entry to win a package of Four (4) HydraFacial treatments!  Visit our blog for full details.

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Spring Break Prep: What You Need To Know

Spring Break is just around the corner. The kids have been stirring in their desks since the holidays, while our legs haven’t seen the light of day since last fall. We’re ready for the warmth of the sun and beach, but we mustn’t forget the risks that come with too much sun exposure and the importance of wearing sunscreen. Be conscious this Spring Break and protect your skin by following these guidelines:

The First Tan of the Year

No one wants to be the same color as the sand when they step onto the beach. The first time you attempt to get some color in the year is the most crucial since your skin is at its’ most vulnerable point. Regularly apply a high SPF sunscreen, and don’t be afraid to take a break in the shade when you start to notice your skin turning pink. Many consider getting a base tan before leaving for vacation; however, this doesn’t necessarily mean your skin will be better adapted to the sun.

A tan indicates that the skin has already produced some melanin, which helps filter future rays from the sun. That’s why pale skin burns easier than a darker skin tone. While a base tan may help your skin not burn as badly on your first day at the beach, many turn to tanning beds to help achieve the foundation. Don’t be tempted. One use of a tanning bed increases your chance of developing melanoma by 75 percent. Although you may head down to the beach with a nicer glow than most, you’ll have a higher risk of skin cancer when you return. It simply isn’t worth the risk.

Know the Products

Everyone’s skin is different; so, it’s important to do your research on the sun protection products you’re considering before you buy. Sunscreen is typically sold in the forms of lotions, sticks, and sprays. Make sure your purchase is broad-spectrum, water-resistant and has an SPF of 30 or higher. While lotions are recommended due to their full-coverage, sticks and sprays tend to be more convenient.

People with sensitive skin should use a physical sunscreen, which works like a shield to deflect the sun’s rays off the surface of the skin. While chemical sunscreens don’t leave the white residue that’s common during application, physical products are easier and healthier for the skin to absorb.

Know the Risk

We all know there are risks that come with sun tanning so it’s imperative to remind ourselves of those risks as we get ready to spend the following months in the sun. A sunburn, also referred to as erythema, is the most obvious sign of UV exposure and skin damage. Damaged DNA in skin cells cause the skin to produce abnormal growths, which often results in skin cancer.

Besides the risk of skin cancer, tanning also affects the skin on a physical level. Unprotected UV exposure results in “photoaging,” known as premature aging. The UV rays will break down the collagen and elastic fibers of the skin, causing wrinkles, dark spots, and leathery skin. The process of peeling is the skin healing itself by removing damaged cells. It’s important to allow your skin to heal and generate new cells.

Check Yourself

Spending time in the sun can bring out freckles and spots you didn’t even know existed. It can be difficult to determine if these spots are healthy growths or a sign for something more ominous. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends visiting your dermatologist at least once a year and giving yourself frequent skin checks to monitor for anything abnormal. When checking a mole for abnormalities, it’s important to remember your ABCs:

  • Asymmetry: The first warning sign for skin cancer to be aware of is the symmetry of the mole. Your mole should be relatively symmetrical; so, if you draw a line through the middle of the spot and it doesn’t evenly match, make an appointment with your dermatologist.
  • Border: A normal mole or “beauty mark” will have a natural and clear border. A spot with a blurry or jagged edge is a sign for concern.
  • Color: A typical mole should be a solid, brown pigment with no color variation. Spots with multiple colors, especially dark purple or black could indicate that it’s a cancerous growth.
  • Diameter: A normal mole or freckle is around a quarter of an inch in diameter, or the size of a pencil eraser. Anything larger than that should be checked out by a doctor immediately. Even if the spot doesn’t raise any other red flags, something that appears quickly and of a large size is extremely concerning.
  • Elevation: A normal mole should have a smooth texture and be flat or slightly raised. All spots on your body should be relatively similar in texture, color, and height.

If you have a concerning spot that meets any of these conditions, don’t hesitate to see a dermatologist.

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What is Vitamin C and why do you need it in your skincare routine?

Chances are you’ve heard the buzz about Vitamin C – it’s the gold standard in anti-aging. While you probably incorporate vitamin C into your everyday diet, it helps protect your skin when applied topically. Vitamin C is safe for most skin types and has many benefits. Read more on why Vitamin C should be added to your skincare routine.

Fights Free Radicals

Vitamin C is an antioxidant, which means it fights free radicals. Free radicals are tiny atoms that are unstable and roam around looking for an electron to steal. Many of these free radicals are because of environmental stressors such as sun exposure, air pollution, and smoke. This process leads to skin damage and causes discoloration, inflammation, dullness and fine lines. Studies show vitamin C helps stop atmospheric aging and restore balance back to the skin. 

Stimulates Collagen

Along with fighting off free radicals, vitamin C helps stimulate collagen. It helps holds the cells together during the collagen creation process. Collagen is a naturally occurring protein in the body and is something we all lose as we age. Elasticity and firmness are directly connected to collagen, so as we lose collagen, we are prone to sagging skin, fine lines, and wrinkles. The creation of new collagen helps restore the brightness and firmness of the skin.

 Minimizes Skin Discoloration

Lastly, vitamin C helps minimize skin discoloration, such as melasma, redness, age spots, brown spots, and acne marks. Vitamin c disturbs the cells that create pigment, so they are unable to do so. This helps fade dark spots and prevent new ones from forming.

Overall, Vitamin C is an important antioxidant that should be incorporated into everyone’s skincare routine. For more information on which vitamin C serum is best for you and to purchase products, schedule a consultation.

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What’s the big deal with serums?

Serums are all the buzz in the beauty world. But what are they, exactly? A serum is a skincare product that is applied to the skin before moisturizing and helps deliver powerful ingredients to the skin. Typically, serums have active ingredients that absorb into the skin to target specific concerns – such as acne, wrinkles, and discoloration. Below you’ll find some of our best sellers here at Anne Arundel Dermatology.

iSClinical Active Serum

This is iSClinical’s most popular product. Active Serum is a fast-acting, long-term, “results-oriented” serum that decreases the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, visibly evens skin tone, and is excellent for blemish-prone skin. It is excellent for all skin types and for all ages.

Benefits:

  • Reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles by smoothing and softening the skin
  • Diminishes the appearance of uneven skin tone and blemishes
  • Gives the appearance of smaller pores
  • Provides both rapid and long-term noticeable results
  • Paraben-free

iSClinical Youth Serum

The iSClinical youth serum is designed with growth factors to give skin the best of both worlds: immediate and long-term visible results. It contains patented Extremozyme® technology that provides support against environmental aggressors. The result is a more youthful, vibrant, and resilient complexion.

Benefits:

  • Instantly smooths the skin and visibly improves the signs of aging.
  • Contains safe growth factors that help improve the feel of skin firmness and elasticity
  • Helps protect skin from environmental aggressors with Extremozyme® technology
  • Excellent for use under makeup
  • Paraben-free

IsClinical Hydra-Cool Serum

This serum is formulated to rejuvenate, hydrate, and visibly soothe the skin. This refreshing, powerful, penetrating serum combines superior antioxidants with essential botanicals and bio-nutrients.

Benefits:

  • Cools calms and soothes the look and feel of dry, irritated skin
  • Provides antioxidant protection
  • Great for all skin types
  • Excellent for use after shaving
  • Paraben-free

IsClinical Pro-Heal Serum Advance+

This serum features scientifically advanced vitamin C, combined with a superior form of Olive Leaf Extract and pure Vitamins E and A. This powerful formulation significantly increases antioxidant protection. Also, the Pro-Heal Serum improves the appearance of compromised, blemish-prone, and aging skin.

Benefits:

  • Provides extremely powerful antioxidant protection
  • Improve the appearance of blemish-prone skin
  • Reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
  • Revitalizes the appearance of aging and compromised skin
  • Paraben-free

ZO Daily Power Defense

This is a powerful antioxidant serum. Daily Power Defense is designed to improve the appearance of lines and wrinkles and to address future damage.

Benefits:

  • Provides antioxidant protection to combat free radical damage
  • Helps tighten and firm the skin
  • Promotes skin health

ZO Growth Factor Serum

ZO Growth Factor Serum is a lightweight gel suitable for all skin types. It strengthens skin, supports skin rejuvenation and protects against future signs of aging.

Benefits:

  • Improve the overall appearance of skin
  • Reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
  • Improve skin firmness and elasticity
  • Restores hydration and reinforces the skin’s protective barrier

ZO Rozatrol®

Rozatrol is a treatment serum for red, sensitized skin that works to normalize skin by reducing excess surface oil. Exfoliating properties provide ultra-mild exfoliation to prevent the signs of premature aging.

Benefits:

  • Reduces the appearance of rosacea and redness
  • Improve skin firmness and elasticity
  • Patient pending technology

SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic®

C E Ferulic features a combination of 15% pure vitamin C, 1% vitamin E, and 0.5% ferulic acid to enhance protection against environmental damage caused by free radicals that can contribute to atmospheric aging.  C E Ferulic also improves signs of aging and photodamage. In addition, it improves the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Benefits:

  • Provides advanced environmental protection by neutralizing damaging free radicals
  • Improves of the loss of firmness, and brightens skin’s complexion
  • Once absorbed, C E Ferulic remains effective for a minimum of 72 hours
  • Paraben-free and ideal for normal, dry, and sensitive skin types
  • Tested suitable for use post-laser
  • Patented Serum: U.S. Patent No. 7,179,841

SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF®

Phloretin CF features a patented synergistic combination of 2% phloretin, 10% pure vitamin C, and 0.5% ferulic acid for enhanced protection. It protects against atmospheric skin aging, environmental damage and premature signs of aging caused by free radicals from UVA/UVB radiation and pollution. Phloretin CF improves the appearance of discoloration. Additionally, it helps with fine lines and uneven skin tone.

Benefits:

  • Provides advanced environmental protection by neutralizing damaging free radicals
  • Improves skin discoloration and overall skin tone
  • Once absorbed, Phloretin CF remains effective for a minimum of 72 hours
  • Paraben-, fragrance-, and dye-free
  • Ideal for normal, oily, and combination skin types
  • Patented Serum: U.S. Patent No. 9,248,082

Serums are available at any of our office locations (note: not all serums are available at all locations). To purchase products, visit our office or schedule a skin care consultation to see which products are best for your skin.

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