Posts Tagged ‘san francisco bay area dermatologist’

An Even Tan Only Comes Without the Sun! Notes from a San Francisco Bay Area Dermatologist

Wednesday, August 11th, 2010

To help answer the question of why different types of skin cancer tend to occur in different parts of the body given they all are caused by UV exposure, researchers at the University of Edinburgh recently conducted a “tanning” study published in the Journal of Experimental Dermatology.

The study exposed the backs and buttocks of 100 volunteers to six doses of UVB rays. A week later their skin was analyzed, revealing that the buttock area remained lighter in color and was much more resistant to tanning than the back area, despite the same level of UVB exposure. In the UK’s Telegraph, Professor Jonathan Rees (Unviersity of Edinburgh) reported the reason being that the skin on bottoms is thicker than other areas of the body. Part of the defense mechanism of a tan is to thicken the skin in a given area to protect its lower layers from UV damage. Areas where the skin is already thick, like our bottoms, is less likely to tan as a defensive response to UV exposure.

What is the take home message? If you are seeking an even, all-over tan, then you are chasing an impossibility. The skin is not physically able to tan in this way and this study is simply more evidence to discourage tanning through UV exposure at all! The still safest and most effective way to get an even tan is through topical tanning products like lotions, tan towels and shower bars.

Neocutis Bio-Serum in SF Examiner! Notes from a San Francisco Bay Area Dermatologist

Sunday, August 1st, 2010

With all of the anti-aging skin products on the market, how do we choose what to carry in our office and recommend to our patients? Well for us to bring on a product, there must be scientific data behind it that it actually works to penetrate and improve the skin. Also, the product must be tried and liked by myself and my staff of varying skin types.

The products from Neocutis definitely meet both criteria. And while we can talk someone’s ear off about the benefits of their formulations, it is always reassuring for patients when a third party review backs up our findings too! Check out this article in the San Francisco Examiner on Neocutis Bio-Serum.

Neocutis Bio-Serum uses PSP® (Processed Skin Cell Proteins), a balanced mixture of skin nutrients including cytokines, growth factors and antioxidants, combined with pro-collagen amino acids and a bio-mimetic peptide to safeguard the skin’s collagen and elastin against damage. Skin plumping hyaluronic acid and line softening technology also work synergistically to help visibly transform the appearance of skin. Contact our office to start and see the benefits of Bio-Serum for yourself!

Still Tanning Despite the Risks? Notes from a San Francisco Bay Area Dermatologist

Sunday, July 18th, 2010

Excessive sun exposure and tanning bed use increases the risk of getting melanoma, basal cell cancer and other non-melanoma cancers. We have several patients who, despite having been treated for serious skin cancer, continue to tan. Why? Well, it turns out that they may suffer from a tanning addiction. They suffer uncomfortable physical and mental symptoms when they try to stop. Many repeat tanners exhibit addictive behaviors similar to those exhibited by people addicted to substances such as meth and alcohol. In a recent study (Arch Dermatol 2010 Apr;146:412) 70% of study participants who visited tanning parlors met criteria for addiction to indoor tanning. Study participants who met criteria for addiction also had greater anxiety and greater alcohol and marijuana use. Tanning addiction seems to involve the same drives as other forms of substance related disorders. Of course , it is important to distinguish addicted from non-addicted tanners. It is hoped that lessons learned from treating other addictions can be translated into concrete interventions to reduce risky tanning behavior.

Do Sunscreens Cause Cancer? Are they safe? Notes from a San Francisco Bay Area Dermatologist

Tuesday, July 13th, 2010

The latest question on patients’ minds this summer is the safety of sunscreen. A few websites have posted articles scaring people into questioning whether or not they should use sunscreen. The bottom line is that sunscreens protect us from skin cancer and here’s why:

What do we know?

Numerous studies have looked at this issue, and none have confirmed any link between sunscreens and skin cancer. Some researchers have speculated that since sunscreens allow users to stay out in the sun longer they may increase the risk of skin cancer. There have also been worries about physical sunblocks zinc oxide and titanium dioxide nanoparticles (micronized). The worry is that these may pose a danger if inhaled or absorbed through the skin. A large National Institutes of Health (NIH) funded study found minimal skin absorption of titanium nanoparticles and this has been confirmed by other studies. It is possible that inhaled nanoparticles may be risky. So if you use a spray sunscreen keep it away from your face (spray on your hand and rub in) or hold your breath when you spray.

We do know that the sunscreens help prevent skin growths called actinic keratoses. These are rough scaly patches that can develop into squamous cell cancer. There is less evidence that sunscreens protect against melanoma and basal cell cancer. This may be because these two cancers are strongly linked to sunburn. Your risk of melanoma doubles if you have had five or more sunburns at any age or from just one blistering sunburn before the age of 20. Basal cell cancer seems also to be linked to the amount of freckling and number of burns. In other words excessive sun exposure definitely causes cancer!!

Given that we know the sun can cause cancer and the evidence is nonexistent that sunscreens cause cancer common sense should prevail. Use sunscreen!

Are sunscreens safe for the environment?

Unfortunately sunscreens are bad for the ocean environment! They come off in the water and settle down to the coral reefs blocking vital UV radiation. What can you do? I am a huge proponent of light weight wetsuits and UV protective rash guards used for surfing. I always wear one when I snorkel or windsurf. It is easier to put one of these on your kids and yourself than to deal with suncreening your whole body and reapplication after swimming. They come in cute colors and styles and are widely available. You can bolster their UV blocking abilities by washing with SunGuard or a similar product. They claim they are effective up to 20 washing cycles or swimming dips! Apply your sunscreen to your face and hands and cover up the rest with UV protective clothing!! You save your skin and the ocean!

Ultrasound Tightening with Ultherapy! Notes from a San Francisco Bay Area Dermatologist

Friday, June 25th, 2010

We all hate it when someone says that we look tired, because what they are really is saying is that we look old. When you feel like you hear this comment more often than you would like or when you actually had 10 hours of sleep the night before, it may be time for a bit of rejuvenation.

Sagging skin around the brow, cheeks, jawline and neck all contribute to a “tired” appearance, which can easily be addressed with the latest in non-invasive skin tightening procedure called Ultherapy. My staff and I truly love the Ulthera. Ultherapy uses ultrasound heat to stimulate the skin’s natural collagen building process, resulting in more sculpted skin. Our nurses are expert at using the Ulthera applicator to focus the ultrasound energy at just the right depth below the skin to give you the safest, yet most effective treatment possible. Your skin’s response to the energy is to generate new collagen, resulting in a natural lift of the skin over time (approximately 2-4 months).

The procedure lasts anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the areas being treated and is appropriate for all skin types. Comfort levels do vary with Ultherapy, so we will generally counsel patients prior to treatment on their medication options. While some patients have reported mild swelling and tenderness in the treated areas, the Ultherapy procedure allows you to return to your normal activities right away - no special measures need to be taken.

I always like to stay on the “non-cutting” edge of the latest in skin tightening and after much research, I have great confidence in the results of Ultherapy. Since having had the Ultherapy done myself, I can see that my cheeks are now higher and my jawline is tighter, which definitely makes me look and feel more “rested.” No more comments about looking tired for me!

Contact our office for more details on Ultherapy!

The Latest on Thermage! Notes from a San Francisco Bay Area Dermatologist

Wednesday, June 9th, 2010

Thermage is the only non-invasive procedure that helps tighten and contour your skin in a single treatment – with no surgery, no injections, and little downtime. It is one of the few treatments that can be used to improve areas of the body like your arms, tummy and thighs. It is also a great treatment for the eyes and face. Here’s a great clip from NBC New York demonstrating Thermage on the arms.

For even more video clips on Thermage, check out this montage on YouTube.

Contact our office to learn more about Thermage and how it may work to keep your skin looking fitter and tighter in the years to come!

Interview on CBS 5 about the MTS-Roller: Notes from a San Francisco Bay Area Dermatologist

Monday, May 17th, 2010

In case you missed it, here is the link to my interview with CBS Channel 5 News (KPIX) discussing the benefits of the MTS-Roller!

This instrument is one of my favorites. Its a hand-held roller dotted with micro-needles that can be used on the face, neck and body. While the MTS (Microneedle Therapy System) Roller does not look like something you’d naturally be inclined to used on your skin, it has been shown to deliver results. It helps induce collagen growth in the dermal layer and helps products penetrate more deeply into the skin where they can be much more effective. This translates to skin that appears softer, smoother and less wrinkled over time. It may also help with scarring and hyperpigmentation. The treatment is virtually pain-free and no damage is caused to the skin. The roller can be used safely on the skin 3-4 days per week and comes in two sizes. The 0.2mm needle roller is to be used on dry to sensitive and mature skin types. The 0.3mm needle roller is better for thick and oily prone skin. We will be happy to help you choose which is most appropriate for your skin. The roller retails for $125 each, which includes sterilizing equipment.

Our staff will instruct you on the proper use of the roller, so you can use it in the convenience of your own home. You can use the roller with nearly any product, however, we find that the best products include Neocutis Bio-Serum, hyaluronic acid serums, bio-restorative creams, hydroquinone and retinoic acids. Let us help you take advantage of this handy little tool and add it to your anti-aging warchest!

Join us Friday, May 14th for Body Awareness Day! Notes from a San Francisco Bay Area Dermatologist

Tuesday, May 11th, 2010

Get your skin and body into summer shape with our latest special event!

On Friday, May 14th, we will offer 20% off all sunscreens, Tan Towel self-tanning products, body lotions and scrubs, vitamins and Heliocare (an antioxidant supplement that inhibits the formation of sunburn cells - great for vacations!). The Clarisonic Body System with brushes and Silk’N home hair laser device will also be 20% off.

If you’ve been thinking of trying our Zeltiq fat reduction treatment or Body by Thermage, now is the time! A very special package that combines Zeltiq sculpting treatments and a Thermage treatment to tighten the waist and abdomen area will be available for booking at a great price. Please contact the office for more details.

Refreshments and representatives from our favorite companies will be available to you for questions and information.

Look forward to seeing you May 14th!

The Latest on Cellulite: Notes from a San Francisco Bay Area Dermatologist

Wednesday, April 21st, 2010

No matter how advanced technology becomes with lasers, ultrasound, radio frequency or infrared heat techniques, a truly effective, long lasting treatment for cellulite remains elusive. Why is cellulite such a difficult problem to treat? Well, let’s start with exactly what that cottage cheese-like appearance is all about.

Cellulite is an architectural issue between connective tissue of the skin and fatty tissue. The skin is connected to underlying muscle by fibrous connective cords. Fat lies between these structures. The fat pushes out against the skin, while the cords pull down, creating a dimpling effect on the surface. The number, orientation and way these connective cords are organized in the tissue affects the amount and severity of cellulite a person may have. Even though it is a common problem, It is a complex one, which is why there is no easy solution.

Cellulite is typically seen in the thighs, hips and buttocks of most women and may be genetically linked. Excessive weight can make cellulite more noticeable, but it can be seen in lean body types as well. It can also worsen with age as the skin loses elasticity.

You’ve probably seen countless ads with promises to eliminate cellulite. The truth is that no single treatment is completely effective. Topical creams, massage therapy and body wraps only provide a temporary effect on the appearance of cellulite at best, if they even do anything at all. Of all the topical treatments, studies did show that topically applied retinol over a period of 6 months improved the appearance of cellulite because it helped stimulate collagen production and strength in the skin. Mesotherapy, a technique that uses the injection of various substances into the fatty tissue to dissolve it, remains largely unstudied and can have unpredictable outcomes or only temporary improvement. More invasive procedures, such as liposuction, can remove fat in the deeper layers, but its effect on superficial fat mostly seen in cellulite can be disappointing. Laser assisted liposuction may be helpful for very small localized surface areas, but also requires more study. Devices that combine radio frequency, infrared heat and suction with massage have gained popularity, but results on their effectiveness are often mixed and they typically require on-going treatments.

A new concept that may have future application for cellulite reduction is cryolysis. There is evidence that fatty tissue is sensitive to cold temperature injury. Currently, this concept is used in the Zeltiq procedure (cryolipolysis), which reduces small pockets of fat in the waist and love-handle areas of the body. We have seen amazing results with the Zeltiq for this indication and I look forward to more research on cryolysis for the improvement of cellulite as well. Trust me, as soon as there is a safe, non-invasive device that truly improves cellulite, we will offer it!!

Derm Terms II: Notes from a San Francisco Bay Area Dermatologist

Friday, April 2nd, 2010

Another commonly seen, but non-cancerous growth found on the skin is known as a seborrheic keratoses (SK). SKs can grow anywhere on the skin, except the palms of hands and soles of feet. They can begin as small, rough bumps but become thicker over time and appear almost like someone pasted them on your skin. The color ranges from brown to tan or black and the size can be from a pin-head to a quarter.

Sample of SK

The exact cause of SKs is still unknown, although their may be a familial component to their appearance. Typically patients will notice and seek removal of SKs around age 30 and up. More can appear as you get older. While treatment is not required, SKs can become annoying as they can start to catch on clothing or jewelry and also lead to more aged skin appearance.

Removal of SKs is usually quite simple and may involve freezing the spot with liquid nitrogen, using an electric needle to sand it down, or scraping off the growth. There is little downtime and these methods are quick and nearly pain-free.

I always say that the less things you have hanging off your skin, the better you will look and feel. So if you start to notice these growths, or have already collected a few, see a dermatologist for easy removal. Should you notice a sudden growth spurt of many or should any SK become itchy, bleed, change color or become irritated, please have a dermatologist check to make sure a more serious issue is not present, such as melanoma skin cancer.

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