People visit dermatologists for a number of different reasons. Sometimes they make an appointment with a board certified dermatologist to treat a current issue or ongoing condition, but did you know another reason to seek professional medical attention is for scars?

Scars result from wounds that occur in the skin and tissue of our bodies. Once the wound heals, a scar or mark is left in its place. 95 percent or an estimated 10 million Americans suffer each year from scarring due to acne. Other causes of scars are burns, automobile or other accidents, genetic birth defects and severe rashes or allergic reactions. Scars range in all size and shapes, depending on the cause and location.

Through our bodies’ natural healing process, scars can fade in time. Often topical creams purchased over-the-counter or other home remedies such as Vitamin E oil are used. In the case that these methods don’t provide the desired results, it might be time to consult a board certified dermatologist, such as a member of our team here at Knoxville Dermatology Group.

Some options that are available to you are:

• Surgery- Though it might sound intimidating, some scars require a bit more attention and this can take place through in-office procedures or more extensive reconstructive care.
• Injections- Use of injectable solutions may diminish and fade scars over time. This method is usually used for skin with raised scar tissue.
• Dermabrasion- Common with patients who have experienced acne scarring, this method can help smooth out your scar and leave your skin looking supple and fresh.
• Laser Resurfacing- In this case, scar tissue is burned away while dermal collagen is stimulated, tightening and reducing the appearance of the scar. This method can be used both for scars due to acne and injuries.

Scars can make life difficult, especially when they are quite severe or covering the face. It is not uncommon for people with scars to experience emotional distress or lack self-confidence. The good thing is that there is hope for people with scars. If you have a scar you’d like to see less of, make an appointment today with a member of our team. We are here to help you through the process and determine which methods will work best for your unique skin.

Is your confidence affected because of an unwanted scar? Our team of board certified physicians here at Knoxville Dermatology Group is here to help. Schedule an appointment today with one of our board certified physicians to get your skin the care it needs so it can reach its fullest, healthiest potential.

Contact Knoxville Dermatology Group at 865.690.9467.

Hair loss, also known as alopecia, is associated with aging in both men and women, but can be a scary thing if you are experiencing it. While it is a common part of the aging process, alopecia can affect younger people as well.

Many factors play a role in hair loss, but some common ones are heightened stress levels, genetics, poor nutrition and sickness. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, each year 30 million women in the U.S. experience hereditary hair loss compared to 50 million men.

We lose hair due to natural shedding every day so this is nothing to be concerned about. However, when the shedding becomes more prevalent or if balding appears, it may be time to explore treatment options.

You might not automatically think about visiting a board certified dermatologist when dealing with hair loss problems, but your dermatologist is the correct choice. Since the scalp, where hair grows, is part of your skin, a dermatologist is knowledgeable about issues that can plague this part of your body. During a visit, your doctor might review your medical history, run blood tests or even perform a biopsy, just to help determine the root cause of the hair loss.

If you are experiencing serious hair loss or any other new skin issues, don’t hesitate to make an appointment with a dermatologist. Putting off treatment will not help things in the long run and you’ll put your mind at ease by getting an expert opinion. Sadly, many people are taken in by claims of over-the-counter “miracle” pills and creams, but in this case, a board certified dermatologist is the best way to ensure real results.

Are you suffering from alopecia or another skin condition? Our team of board certified physicians here at Knoxville Dermatology Group is here to help. Schedule an appointment today with one of our board certified physicians to get your skin the care it needs so it can reach its fullest, healthiest potential.

Contact Knoxville Dermatology Group at 865.690.9467.

As our largest organ, our skin and its health should be a priority. One way of making sure you provide your skin with the care and attention it needs is forming a relationship with a board certified dermatologist. Some people are apprehensive about visiting a dermatologist, especially if it is for the first time. Here are a few things to expect when you first visit a dermatologist that will help to put your mind at ease.

• Meeting and talking: When you first visit the dermatologist, he or she will make introductions and then take some time to ask you questions about your skin. These could be anything from how you care for it to any concerns you might have or instances of skin conditions in your family. It’s important that you try to answer the questions as completely and honestly as possible. Even if you feel something is insignificant, if it’s worrying you, bring it up.

• Skin Exam: Next, you’ll have time in private to disrobe. Every doctor is different, but most will provide paper coverings for you if you’re feeling overexposed. When you’re ready, your doctor will do a full-on scan from head to toe. This is not the time to be shy, especially if you have a mole or other skin issue that needs to be examined. Don’t be embarrassed about showing your doctor and remember that he or she is a professional and wants you to feel comfortable.

• After the Exam: If your doctor finds something suspicious, he or she might decide to perform a biopsy. Don’t jump to conclusions or start worrying if this happens. No matter what the results are, your doctor will help map out a treatment plan that is specially tailored for your needs. Our board certified dermatologists here at Knoxville Dermatology are committed to the health of your skin and will do everything to take great care of you.

• Ask questions: This is your opportunity to ask any questions you might have. Whether you want advice on which products to use or have questions about your skin care regimen, get your questions answered to clarify anything you might be confused about.

• Repeat: Make an appointment to have your skin examined each year so you can maintain your relationship with your dermatologist and keep all skin issues and potential issues in check. This is a crucial part of both skin health and overall wellness and you will be glad you gave your skin the care it deserves.

Would you like to see a dermatologist, but haven’t found the right one? Look no further than our team here at Knoxville Dermatology Group. Skin health should be taken seriously, and we’re here to help. Schedule an appointment today with one of our board certified physicians to get your skin the care it needs so it can reach its fullest, healthiest potential.

Contact Knoxville Dermatology Group at 865.690.9467.

It is estimated that nearly 30% of women and 20% of men ages 20 to 60 experience skin breakouts caused by adult acne. The condition is caused by sebum, a pore-clogging oily substance produced by the skin’s sebaceous glands. Adults who suffer from acne can blame hypersensitivity or overproduction of androgens (male hormones) as well as estrogen (female hormones).

Pregnancy, perimenopause, menopause as well as medications such as corticosteroids and cosmetics can also contribute to the development of acne in adults.

Treatment

Since most acne medications are created for teen skin, treatment can be difficult. Over-the-counter products may have some effectiveness, but more than likely, visiting a board certified dermatologist will be necessary to get a tailored skincare plan for your particular issue and experience lasting results.

Face Washing

There are steps you can take to experience healthier skin and they begin with how you clean your skin. Try to keep your face clean during the day.  Wash your face twice daily with your cleanser (if your skin is dry, try using water the second time) and use only warm water (hot water is drying). Wash for just 1-2 minutes (more can irritate your skin). Use your hands instead of a rough washcloth. If you must wash with a cloth, try using one made for infants because it will be gentler.

Are you embarrassed to be an adult dealing with acne? Skin health should be taken seriously, but we’re here to help. Schedule an appointment today with one of our board certified physicians to get your skin the care it needs so it can reach its fullest, healthiest potential.

Contact Knoxville Dermatology Group at 865.690.9467.

Warts are one of those skin conditions that have a great deal of mystery surrounding them, including misconceptions about how they are caused, how they spread and whether or not to seek treatment. In today’s Skin School blog, we are doing to clarify some things for you about warts and give you some helpful information if you or someone you love is suffering from them.

Warts are small, usually painless growths on the skin. Caused by a virus called human papillomavirus (HPV), most warts are generally harmless. All warts are spread from one part of your body to another and they can be spread from one person to another, but this isn’t common.

Typically, warts are raised, round (or oval) growths on the skin and they have a rough surface. Warts may be lighter or darker than the surrounding skin tone with smooth or flat surfaces.

There are different types of warts, including common warts which usually appear on hands and don’t tend to cause pain. Flat warts appear generally on the face and forehead, more commonly in children and sometimes teens, but less common in adults. Plantar warts are a painful variety and usually appear on the soles of feet. Warts affecting fingernails or toenails are called subungual and periungual and occur under or around the nail. A final type of wart and one that affects the genitals is called condyloma.

Are you suffering from warts or other skin issues? Skin health should be taken seriously, but we’re here to help. Schedule an appointment today with one of our board certified physicians to get your skin the care it needs so it can reach its fullest, healthiest potential.

Contact Knoxville Dermatology Group at 865.690.9467.

Sarcoptes scabiei, commonly known as scabies, is an easily spread skin disease that is caused by a very small species of mite. While there is a negative stigma surrounding the condition, it affects people worldwide, with no regard to culture, gender or age. Spread by direct contact with infected people, scabies can affect whole families when one member is suffering with the disease.

Facilities such as nursing homes and child care centers are popular sites for outbreaks, since there is such a great deal of communal space and shared living quarters. However, scabies does not usually occur after sharing clothes or bedding, but rather through skin-to-skin contact.

The itchy rash that appears during a scabies outbreak is because the mites burrow into the skin and deposit their eggs. After 21 days, the eggs mature and this is what causes the allergic response. The scabies mite burrow appears similar to a pencil mark on the skin. Other symptoms of the condition include itching, notably at night and rashes that appear between the fingers.

If you feel you or someone in your family is suffering from scabies, contact a member of our team here at Knoxville Dermatology Group as soon as possible. The condition’s effects are especially detrimental in babies, showing up as pimples or small blisters on the body. A board certified dermatologist, such as a one of our physicians at Knoxville Dermatology Group can perform an examination of your skin and do necessary skin tests such as scrapings or biopsies.

Most cases of scabies are curable with the proper attention and medical care. Don’t let a possible case go untreated. Give us a call today.

Are you experiencing itching or some of the other signs of a potential scabies outbreak? Skin health should be taken seriously, but we’re here to help. Schedule an appointment today with one of our board certified physicians to get your skin the care it needs so it can reach its fullest, healthiest potential.

Contact Knoxville Dermatology Group at 865.690.9467.

Since skin creams containing steroids can cause flare ups of the condition, these are not often used to treat it. Alternately, other topical medications or in severe cases, oral antibiotics might be used as forms of treatment. Perioral dermatitis can often require lengthy treatments, so if you are experiencing something you suspect might be PD, contact a member of our team here at Knoxville Dermatology Group as a soon as possible.

Are you experiencing redness or some of the other signs of perioral dermatitis? Skin health should be taken seriously, but we’re here to help. Schedule an appointment today with one of our board certified physicians to get your skin the care it needs so it can reach its fullest, healthiest potential.

Contact Knoxville Dermatology Group at 865.690.9467.

December is a busy month and you’re probably rushing around trying to check all sorts of things off your list. One minute you might be slushing through the rain in heavy boots and the next you might slip into a pair of dress shoes for a work meeting, then into some strappy heels and finally a pair of sneakers for an evening jog.

This time of year, your feet take a beating. You might not think about them much since they practically live in shoes and socks when it’s cold out, but caring for your feet is an important part of total body and skin health. The skin on our feet might seem rough and tough, but it’s actually very sensitive. Corns, calluses and bunions are just a few of the painful foot issues that can arise from improper care of your feet.

Dry skin on feet can lead to cracking and bleeding, and shoes that are too tight can create problems such as hammer toes, blisters and ingrown toenails. It’s important to give your feet time to rest each day and also to make sure they are clean and dry after bathing, especially between toes where fungus can often show up.

No matter what kinds of skin issues you are dealing with on your feet, our team of board certified dermatologists here at Knoxville Dermatology Group can help.

Are your feet showing signs or symptoms of the issues mentioned here? Whether during the holidays or anytime throughout the year, skin health should be taken seriously and our feet are an important part of that. Schedule an appointment today with one of our board certified physicians to get your skin the care it needs so it can reach its fullest, healthiest potential.

Contact Knoxville Dermatology Group at 865.690.9467.

The holidays are a wonderful time of being with loved ones, gift giving and enjoying festive annual traditions. Did you know they can also wreak havoc on your skin? All the shopping, cooking and celebrating also means you are probably getting too little sleep, eating on the run and feeling a bit more stress than usual. Also, the cooler temperatures and chilly winds play a negative role in your skin’s health.

It shows up with dark circles, puffy, swollen eyes and pimples and blemishes at the most inopportune times. These seasonal skin problems can be avoided by taking certain precautions and caring for your skin the right way.

Preventative care is very important this time of year. Here at Knoxville Dermatology Group, we are always happy to help you establish a specially tailored skincare regimen that meets the needs of your unique skin. If you haven’t seen a dermatologist in a while, this might be a great time to make an appointment.

Sometimes skin stress appears during the holiday months from a lack of moisture. This can be especially problematic if you live in a cold climate or are exposed to prolonged periods with indoor heating. Drinking alcohol can also play a role in drying out your skin.

We can help you select the right moisturizer that will help keep your skin from getting too dry. On the other side of the coin are breakouts. Stress induced by the holidays causes a surge in testosterone, which causes skin to break out. There are methods and products that can help with these types of issues as well.

Whatever your skin type and whatever issues you might be facing, give us a call. We’d love to help you on the road to better skin health, during the holidays and for the entire year.

Are you experiencing signs of holiday skin? Whether during the holidays or anytime throughout the year, skin health should be taken seriously. Schedule an appointment today with one of our board certified physicians to get your skin the care it needs so it can reach its fullest, healthiest potential.

Contact Knoxville Dermatology Group at 865.690.9467.

Everyone knows that around this time of year, we start to see more of the jolly guy in red. You know the one, with the round face and the rosy cheeks? While a healthy complexion does involve a bit of color on your cheeks, there is a skin condition called Rosacea that causes much more redness than ever desired. In fact, 16 million Americans have Rosacea and most don’t even realize it.

Rosacea is pronounced roh-ZAY-sha and is defined by the National Rosacea Society as “a common but poorly understood disorder that shows up on the facial skin as redness on the cheeks, nose, chin or forehead.” It can include small visible blood vessels on the face as well as bumps or pimples and even watery, irritated eyes.

Rosacea can have particularly negative effects on a person’s psychological well-being, as it can make one self-conscious about his appearance. Statistics by the National Rosacea Society found that a high percentage of people suffering from Rosacea report the disorder as “potentially life-disruptive” with poor self-image leading to cancelled social outings and missed work.

The cause of rosacea is unknown, and though there is not currently a cure, a board certified dermatologist such as any member of our team here at Knoxville Dermatology Group can diagnose the condition and work with you to develop a treatment plan.

Even though there isn’t a cure, there are ways to combat this problem. There’s no reason for a person to go through life feeling badly about his or her skin. Here at Knoxville Dermatology Group, we want to help you put your best face forward and we believe we can help you if you’re struggling with Rosacea.

Are you experiencing redness or some of the other signs of Rosacea? Skin health should be taken seriously, but we’re here to help. Schedule an appointment today with one of our board certified physicians to get your skin the care it needs so it can reach its fullest, healthiest potential.

Contact Knoxville Dermatology Group at 865.690.9467.