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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.

How Stress Affects Your Skin

Stress has a destructive relationship with our skin. Everything in the body is correlated, so it transpires onto our most outer layer. Stress has an immense impact on both the extrinsic and intrinsic factors of our skin, which can cause the body to react in various negative ways. The skin is much deeper than just the outer layer, as our mind and the organ work together. If you are a victim to stress and might possess stress-related symptoms, ask yourself the following:

  • How am I eating?
  • How am I sleeping? Have my sleeping patterns changed?
  • When my skin issue started, what was going on in my life?
  • Are my symptoms stress related?

Understanding Your Stress Hormone & How it Works

Cortisol is the body’s stress hormone which fuels the its’ “fight-or-flight” response. This hormone is released during periods of stress which in return increases heart rate, blood pressure, blood sugar levels, respiration and muscle tension. Cortisol also reduces the body’s system functions that are not needed during times of crisis, such as the reproductive, digestive and immune systems. Other functions of cortisol include:

  • Regulates blood pressure
  • Increases the body’s glucose production (blood sugar levels)
  • Enhances the body’s energy and restores balance
  • Assists in memory formation
  • Controls your sleep/wake cycle
  • Regulates inflammation

How does cortisol work? Two glands in the brain, the hypothalamus and pituitary, sense if the bloodstream contains the right level of cortisol. If levels are too low, the brain adjusts the amount of hormones it produces. The adrenal glands sense these signals and then determine the amount of cortisol to release. Most of the cells in the body contain cortisol receptors, which receive and use the hormone in various ways. The body’s needs vary from day to day, which causes the level of cortisol production to rise and fall accordingly.

 Stress vs. Skin

The major concern with stress and skin is inflammation. When stress affects the body through the skin, it can develop through three different skin conditions: acne, rosacea and psoriasis. The common denominator between these stress-caused symptoms is the reddish color, which comes from inflammation.

Acne

During periods of excessive stress, one may experience more acne-related breakouts than usual. High levels of cortisol result in elevated sebum (oil) production which causes pores to become clogged. Once pores are clogged, the development of inflammation and bacteria cause acne to form.

Rosacea

According to the National Rosacea Society, there have been multiple scientific studies on how the process of facial flushing and redness are linked to high levels of stress. Heat and stress are triggers of rosacea and can cause redness flare-ups to the skin.

Psoriasis

Psoriasis and stress have an intertwined relationship. Stress causes psoriasis, while psoriasis can cause stress. While professionals are not sure how stress directly affects psoriasis, they assume it has something to do with the immune system and its functionality.

Stress can also accelerate the aging cycle in the body, resulting in wrinkles and dark circles. Wrinkles form as a result from dehydration and loss of collagen. Similarly, dark circles are largely related to dehydration in the body and a lack of sleep. To combat the effects stress has on wrinkles and under eye circles, one must stay hydrated and conscious of their stress levels.

Questions to Ask Your Dermatologist

As the effect of stress on the skin comes off as quite complex, it is important to refer to a professional with all of your skin-related concerns. Some stress-related skin questions include the following:

  • How can I combat stress-related symptoms with my specific skin type?
  • What signs/symptoms should I look for when deciphering stress-related skin conditions?
  • How can I manage my cortisol levels?

If you struggle with stress-related skin symptoms, seek professional treatment right away. There are various means of treatment and remedies to have you feeling the absolute best in your own skin. The dermatologists at Knoxville Dermatology Group are licensed professionals who are experienced in hundreds of skin conditions. To make an appointment visit us online or call (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.

Psoriasis Management for Teenagers

Psoriasis is a common skin disorder that affects one to two Americans out of every hundred. The condition causes red, raised lesions on drier areas of the body. These areas typically include the elbows, knees, scalp, buttocks or anywhere that experiences friction. The intensity of psoriasis ranges from mild to severe and can even cause arthritis-like joint pain. Psoriasis is a manageable condition, but treatments vary from person to person.

A psoriasis diagnosis can be detrimental to anyone, but it can be especially hard to accept as a teenager. Most teens are already self-conscious, but a skin disorder can cause lasting self-esteem issues. There aren’t as many prescription medications approved by the FDA available for minors to help manage the condition. It’s normal for teenagers to suffer from acne and to experiment with hair and makeup. Teens with psoriasis should talk with a dermatologist to find the best products to keep flare ups under control.

Makeup

A rite of passage for teenagers is learning how to wear makeup. All teens, not just ones with psoriasis, should be choosing products that cater to their own individual skin type. It’s important to hydrate with a hypoallergenic, fragrance-free moisturizer and primer to prepare the skin for makeup application. Those with psoriasis should be using liquid-based foundations, which will provide more coverage to problem areas. Powder foundations can clog the pores, dry the skin out and lead to flaking. It’s important to wash your face and remove all makeup before going to bed.

Hair Care

Changing your hair up is a normal part of being a teenager, but many think they can’t due to the irritation psoriasis causes to the scalp. It’s important to look at the ingredients in the products you’re using to make sure they cater to sensitive skin. Avoid sulfates in shampoos and wash your hair every couple of days.

The National Psoriasis Foundation says that hair dye will do little to affect the condition. It’s suggested to wait until there isn’t a flare up on the scalp. It’s also important to talk to your hairdresser to make sure the products being used won’t cause any irritation.

Acne

Acne is something many teenagers deal with, but those with psoriasis should pay closer attention to their skin care routine. Use a mild, non-drying cleanser once or twice a day to keep your skin exfoliated and clean. Avoid excessive washing and use an oil-free moisturizer to keep the skin hydrated. Greasy moisturizers will block the pores and cause irritation. Using an over-the-counter skin cleanser prescribed by a dermatologist will provide the best results to clear your acne.

Looking for consultation and product recommendations to help manage your psoriasis? Call Knoxville Dermatology Group today to schedule an appointment!

The Miracle of Accutane

Accutane, or isotretinoin, is a brand name prescription medication that is used to treat severe acne. Introduced in 1979, Accutane became popular when patients saw a dramatic and permanent change in their acne symptoms. The drug contains a derivative from vitamin A and is taken orally in the form of a pill. Accutane is only prescribed to people who have not responded well to other acne treatments. In rare cases, the medication is used in treatment of certain cancers due to its ability to kill cells quickly.

How does it work?

Researchers aren’t sure exactly how Accutane works on a cellular level, but they are aware of the effects it has on acne. Acne occurs when too much oil is being produced and clogs the pores. Accutane reduces the size of these pores and even the amount of oil they produce. The medication slows down the skin cell production rate, which is what mostly causes our pores to get blocked. Accutane also contains anti-inflammatory properties, which will reduce redness and puffiness in the face.

Is Accutane right for you?

Accutane is available through iPLEDGE, a program that mandates the distribution of isotretinoin medicines.  Women taking Accutane must take regular pregnancy tests and be on primary and secondary forms of birth control.

Think Accutane is for you? Contact Knoxville Dermatology Group to set up a consultation and appointment at (865) 690-9467 or online at www.knoxderm.com.

Baby Got Bacne

When we hear acne, memories of high school and puberty come to the forefront of our minds. While many people’s faces clear up past this phase, it isn’t uncommon to experience acne—and even bacne—in our adult lives. Dealing with zits on your face is one thing, but blemishes on your back can be tougher and in hard to reach places. With swimsuit season here, you are probably ready to learn how to manage your bacne once and for all! 

Acne vs. Bacne: 

Many people think that the only difference between acne and bacne is the location it appears on your body. With the back being hard to reach, it is often difficult to clean and exfoliate the problem areas completely. Also, serums used to treat the face often don’t respond as well on the back because the skin there is much thicker and resilient. The skin on the face receives more blood supply that lets acne heal faster and reduce scarring.  

Causes of Bance:  

Although some people are just more prone to bacne than others, there are conditions that will make it worse. Acne happens when our pores become clogged and can’t excrete the oily-sebum that keeps our skin healthy. Men are more prone to bacne thanks to their over-active sebaceous glands and the amount of hair on their backs. Personal products like hair products and body soaps may be blocking your pores and even causing bacne. Scented products use ingredients that will clog your pores, so try using a plain wash made for sensitive skin. Excessive sweating due to exercise can also be a cause. Daily showers, wearing clean clothes and keeping your skin dry are basic hygiene skills and factors to keep in mind.  

Bacne Treatments:  

With tougher skin on the back than the face, products used to treat bacne need a stronger formula, but typically contain the same ingredients. Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) work to exfoliate the top layer of the skin to smooth and clear the back of any dead skin cells that will clog pores. Using a loofah or a scrub with beads in it will irritate the acne and spread the bacteria across the back. Beta Hydroxy Acides (BHAs) are the most effective acne treatments and are designed to clean out dirt from your pores. Applying these to clean, dry skin on a regular basis can significantly improve your skin.  

Want to manage your bacne? Call Knoxville Dermatology Group today at (865) 690-9467 to set up a consultation! 

Skin Care Tips for Every Age

Our skin evolves with age. A 22 year-old will have a different skin regimen than a 62 year old. Should you be worrying about acne or wrinkles? What can you do at your age to benefit your skin later?

20’s & 30’s

Fighting acne is the main concern, especially in your 20’s. Water-based, oil-free wash is usually successful. Keep your skin free of dirt and oil by removing makeup and washing your face daily.

Signs of aging begin to develop in your 30’s. Start using anti-aging lotions as soon as possible. Fine lines and uneven skin tone can be helped with a repairing moisturizer.

40’s & 50’s

The skin may begin losing some of its texture in your 40’s. Wrinkles and age spots may begin appearing. Products with peptide in them even out pigment and increase collagen growth.

An estrogen drop in your 50’s may make 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.

60+

Expand your skin care 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.

Need some extra advice, schedule an appointment with KDG by calling (865)690-9467.

It’s Acne Awareness Month!

Acne. Everyone has it, nobody wants it. Acne is the result of oil and dead skin cells plugging hair follicles that are meant to breath. It most commonly appears on the face, neck, chest, shoulders and back. These areas tend to produce the most oil. Teenagers are particularly susceptible, with 70 to 85 percent of teens having some sort of acne. Between 40 and 55 percent of adults age 20-40 are also diagnosed with acne.

There are many contributing factors to acne production. Physical causes include oil production, bacteria, dead skin cells and clogged pores. Non-physical causes of acne include stress, poor diet and certain medications. Hormones are also a common factor. A certain hormone called Androgen causes the sebaceous glands to widen, which results in more oil production. Flare-ups caused by hormones can happen to anyone, but are most susceptible to teens, pregnant women and people taking oral contraceptives.

A person suffering from acne should see a dermatologist for proper analysis, care and medication. Call (865)690-9467 to book an appointment with KDG or visit www.knoxderm.com for more information.

Guide to Anti-Aging Ingredients

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We all have one thing in common … we age. Many consumers turn to anti-aging creams and makeup to reverse wrinkles. However, non-prescription products aren’t required to undergo testing to prove their effectiveness. To ensure you have a product that actually does its job, look for these key ingredients:

Retinol- Retinol is a vitamin A compound that speeds up cell turnover by stimulating cellular repair and pumps circulation of blood. This boosts collagen and elastin and works best in the dark overnight.

Hydroxy Acids- Hydroxy acids such as alpha, beta and poly hydroxy acids are exfoliants that remove dead skin so that it becomes even and smooth. It also allows other anti-aging ingredients to work faster.

Coenzyme Q10- Also referred to as Vitamin Q, this ingredient helps retain the elastic tissue in your skin. It also aids in protecting the skin from sun damage and preserves collagen.

Tea Extract- Green tea extracts are the most common amongst anti-aging creams. These extracts contain antioxidants that repair skin damage and stimulants that energize the skin.

Peptides- Peptides are amino acids that produce collagen to firm skin. This ingredient is known to be used in products that help stretch marks, scars and wrinkles. All of these ingredients were cross-checked through the Mayo Clinic, Allure, and Everyday Health. Other helpful ingredients include Niacinamide, grape seed extract, and Vitamin C. To examine other ways to help prevent your skin from aging, contact a dermatologist or visit www.knoxderm.com.

Image courtesy of 7Crafts at FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Reasons for Adult Acne

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The plague of our teenage years can come back to haunt us as an adult. It may seem unnatural to you, but plenty of adults suffer from adult-onset acne every year. Here are some common reasons for acne:

Certain hair and skin products can clog pores and cause breakouts. Be sure your facial products include the words “oil-free,” “non-acnegenic,” “non-comedogenic” or “won’t clog pores.”

Acne can be a side effect of various medications.

A change in hormone levels is one of the leading causes of acne in women. This primarily stems from changes in birth control, menstrual cycles and pregnancy.

Heightened levels of stress can also cause a hormonal flare-up. Our bodies produce androgen when we stress, which stimulates our oil glands and causes acne.

Acne may also be passed down through genetics.

You can avoid acne by keeping your face clean, being smart about make-up, and using an over-the-counter medication. If you see no progress treating the acne, see a dermatologist for other treatments and guidance. Acne may be frustrating, but can be controlled with a little patience.

Image courtesy of nenetus at FreeDigitalPhotos.net