Rid Yourself of Acne for the Fall Crunch

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Rid Yourself of Acne for the Fall Crunch

Posted on August 30, 2019 by The Neiman Dermatology Building

As discussed in a past post, acne is a common skin condition that affects millions of people. Although it may only appear on the skin, the effects can go much deeper. Many sufferers deal with anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. With the start of the school year, those problems are only amplified.

So, what exactly causes acne and what can you do to control it? We recently sat down with our aesthetician Lauren Battaglia and asked her just that. Here’s what she had to say…

“Acne occurs when the pores on the skin become blocked with oil, bacteria, and dead skin cells.  This causes the inflammation that appears on the skin. Working as an aesthetician over the years, I have helped a number of patients with varying degrees of acne. I put them on a great regime of treatments and products.”

Some products that she says are the most effective for combating acne are as follows:

  • SkinCeuticals LHA Cleansing Gel – “This cleanser is great because it decongests pores, smooths out skin texture, and brightens the skin. A must for any skin care routine.”
  • SkinCeuticals Clarifying Clay Masque – “Amazing mask! I love, love, love it! It decongests the pores as well, removes excess oil and helps to calm the skin.”
  • SkinCeuticals Blemish + Age Defense – “One of my favorite serums! It’s oil-free and helps to reduce the formation of acne. It even improves clogged pores as well.”

 

Lauren also offers a facial specifically for acne. It consists of a deep, thorough cleansing and extraction that breaks down impurities, sebum, dead skin cells, and blackheads. “It’s really a must for teens or others struggling with stubborn acne,” she says.

With skin type and acne severity varying from person to person, certain products/treatments may work better for some than others. If you would like to meet with Lauren to discuss a customized skin care regime for yourself, contact our office today.

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Posted in Dermatology, Skin Care

Restore Your Skin’s Natural Beauty With Sublative

Posted on August 26, 2019 by The Neiman Dermatology Building

Here at the Lisa S. Ball, NP Building we are committed to providing our patients with the latest and most advanced treatments in skin rejuvenation. The Sublative RF Skin Tightening in particular is probably the most cutting-edge.

Rather than using laser or light, this procedure harnesses radio frequency energy. The radio frequency energy heats up the underlying layers of skin, stimulating collagen production, leading to more youthful looking skin. Many patients have a noticeable improvement immediately after being treated, and the skin actually continues to improve over the next few months as collagen production increases. In as little as 3-4 treatments, Sublative RF Skin Tightening provides effective acne scar treatment, anti-wrinkle treatment and overall rejuvenation and toning of the skin.

Sublative Patient Results

Our patient after four Sublative RF Skin Tightening treatments.

If you would like to learn more about the process or would like to schedule a free consultation contact our office today.

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Posted in RF Skin Tightening, Skin Care

The Truth About Hair Transplantation

Posted on August 20, 2019 by The Neiman Dermatology Building

Hair Transplantation is a cosmetic procedure that was first performed in the US in 1952. Typically, the process is done by taking hair follicles from the back of the scalp and moving them to thinning or bald areas on top of the scalp.

Since its inception, the procedure has evolved significantly over the years. During that time however, some misconceptions developed as well. We decided to set the record straight and debunk some of the more common ones.

Neiman Hair Transplant Procedure

Dr. Thomas Chu harvesting from the donor area in an FUT procedure.

1) The results of a hair transplant are not permanent.

Actually, since the hair is taken from an area that is genetically programmed to never fall out, the transplanted hair will be there for a lifetime. It is currently the only permanent solution for male or female pattern hair loss.

2) Hair transplants are not cost effective.

When considering the long-term benefits of the procedure, you must understand once you have it done, it’s permanent. Relatively speaking, having a hair transplant can be cheaper than years of products and/or treatments done in an attempt to keep or re-grow hair.

3) The FUE method does not leave behind a scar.

Not the case. FUE simply does not leave behind a linear scar in the donor area (like FUT). The scarring left behind with FUE presents itself in the form of tiny little dots in the areas of extraction.

4) After the procedure is done, there is a lot of maintenance and up keep with the transplanted hair.

Once the transplanted hair begins to grow, there is no special upkeep needed. It’s your own hair, just moved to a different area.

5) It’s easy to tell if someone has had a hair transplant.

Though in the past this may have been true, with new advancements and techniques it’s now virtually undetectable.

6) Anyone with hair loss is a candidate for hair transplantation.

Not true. There can be a number of contributing factors causing someone’s hair loss. This is especially true with female patients, as they may have uncontrolled thyroid issues which can contribute to their hair loss. This is why we have all our patients undergo extensive blood work prior to moving forward with a hair transplant procedure.

Hopefully this list provided you with a little reassurance when it comes to hair transplants and if you have any additional questions contact our office today!

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Eczema Tips

Posted on July 30, 2019 by The Neiman Dermatology Building

As discussed in a previous post, eczema is an autoimmune skin condition that can be worsened by certain irritants. The key to managing eczema is to avoid those irritants and appropriately care for your skin. Some ways to do that include…

Caring for Eczema

  • MOISTURIZE, MOISTURIZE, MOISTURIZE!!!!!!!!! Use either a cream or lotion, depending on which is best for your skin specifically.
  • Moisturize immediately after showering and then as needed throughout the day. Try using Cetaphil or Cerave.
  • Take cooler, shorter showers. Will help prevent your skin from being stripped from too much moisture.
  • Wash with gentle soaps. Dove soap, Purpose bar soap or Basis bar soap are all great options.
  • Soak in bath oils. Soothes the skin and helps to alleviate itching.
  • Put a humidifier in the bedroom. Adds moisture to the air, thus providing the skin with more hydration.
  • Clean your clothes with products that are fragrance and dye free. Try Tide (free & gentle) detergent, Downy (free & gentle) fabric softener, and Bounce (free & gentle) dryer sheets.

 

Since eczema is a chronic skin condition it is also important to use medications prescribed as directed. With effective treatment, you can keep eczema under control.

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Nail Facts

Posted on July 26, 2019 by The Neiman Dermatology Building

As described in a previous post, Nail Health Care Tips, nails can provide insight into our overall health. Changes that develop in the nail can indicate an underlying condition that may require immediate medical attention. This makes understanding them so important.

Nails themselves can be described as the thin transparent plate that covers the upper surface at the end of a finger or toe. Consisting of the nail plate, the nail matrix, and the nail bed, the primary objective is to protect the tip of the finger or toe and surrounding areas from injury. Due to this functionality, any abnormalities of the nail can result in further, more serious problems.

Listed below are some facts taken from the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) to provide better understanding about your nails and how they work.

  • Nails grow roughly 1mm each week. 
  • Fingernails grow faster than toenails, especially on your dominant hand. 
  • Nails grow more rapidly in summer than in winter. 
  • Nail problems make up about 10% of all dermatological conditions. 
  • Nail problems usually increase throughout life and affect a high number of senior citizens. 
  • Fungal infections cause about half of all nail disorders. They are more common in toenails because the toes are confined in a warm, moist, weight-bearing environment. 
  • Discoloration in the nail bed may signify oxygen deprivation. 
  • Although very rare, melanomas can actually grow under the nail and are commonly mistaken for an injury. 

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    If you are experiencing any concerns or issues with your nails contact our office right away for successful diagnosis and treatment.

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    Keeping Up With Psoriasis

    Posted on July 22, 2019 by The Neiman Dermatology Building

    Back in 2011, reality star Kim Kardashian announced that she suffers from psoriasis. Since that time, she has been influential in raising awareness about the condition. Recently, she shared a shocking photo on her Instagram that brought attention back to it.

    Kim Kardashian Psoriasis Instagram

    Kim Kardashian showing signs of psoriasis flare-up from recent Instagram post. Source: Kim Kardashian/Instagram

    As you can see, the photo shows textbook psoriasis flareups all over her face. A lot of people found the photo quite shocking and can’t believe how she is regularly able to conceal it.

    Psoriasis is a common skin condition that affects more than 8 million Americans. Typically developing between the ages of 15-25, symptoms consist of skin redness and irritation with silver-colored scales. Usually occurring on the scalp, face, hands, elbows, knees, and feet, it is believed to occur when the body’s immune system mistakes healthy cells for dangerous or harmful substances.

    A common misconception is that psoriasis is contagious, this is not the case. Some things that can contribute to worsening the condition though include too much exposure to sunlight, consumption of alcohol, and even stress. It can be treated in many different ways, with the most common options being topical ointments or creams, lotions, and shampoos.

    Psoriasis Patient

    Lisa S. Ball, NP psoriasis patient after treatment.

    Taking care of your skin by regularly moisturizing and cleaning the affected area can also help in maintaining and reducing flare-ups. Although there is no way to prevent psoriasis, there are many ways to manage and treat the condition.

     

    Source: National Psoriasis Foundation

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    Topical Steroid Addiction

    Posted on July 16, 2019 by The Neiman Dermatology Building

    Topical corticosteroids (steroids) are a common treatment option for a variety of dermatological conditions. The reason is that they promote anti-inflammatory responses by suppressing the immune system’s response. Typically prescribed for psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, eczema, and rashes, if prescribed appropriately they can yield very effective results.

    This effectiveness however can lead to patients developing a dependency on them. Initially, after stopping the topical steroid, the condition may come back with a vengeance. So quite often, people will continue to apply the steroid even after the condition clears, and in doing so, severe side effects can arise.  Examples include, atrophy of the skin (the consistency in the area of skin where the cream was used becomes comparable to saran wrap) or striae (thick red lines that look like stretch marks). A way to avoid potential addiction is through the use of a stagger program. This can be done by using the topical steroid twice a day for two weeks, then taking one week off.

    Although topical steroids are an effective option, if not administered properly it can lead to serious issues.

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    Tips for Getting a Smooth Shave

    Posted on July 10, 2019 by The Neiman Dermatology Building

    Shaving can be a challenge for both men and women. Whether getting razor bumps or a rash, the process can be tough. Yet getting a smooth shave with minimal irritation is possible.

    Follow these tips:

    1. Before you shave, wet your skin and hair to soften it. Taking a shower or bath prior is a great way.
    2. Next, apply a shaving cream or gel.
    3. Be sure to shave in the direction that the hair grows.
    4. Change blades or throw away disposable razors after 5 to 7 shaves to help minimize irritation.
    5. Those who have acne should take special care while shaving. Shaving can irritate your skin, making acne worse.
      • Men who have acne on their faces, should try experimenting with an electric or disposable razor to determine which works best.
      • Use a razor with a sharp blade.
      • Shave lightly to prevent nicks and never try to shave off the acne as both can make acne worse.

     

    If you have any further questions about shaving, especially with acne-prone skin, contact our office. Treating a skin condition, such as acne, can go a long way in reducing irritation caused by shaving.

    Source: American Academy of Dermatology

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    Do Bandaged Cuts Heal Faster?

    Posted on June 27, 2019 by The Neiman Dermatology Building

    You may have heard that letting a cut breathe can help it heal faster. This is however not the case, as leaving a cut uncovered creates a dry environment actually leading to a slower healing process.

    Bandaged cut

    Cuts or wounds of any kind, need moisture to heal, and covering them with a bandage provides great benefits. Let’s say, for instance, you grate your knuckles instead of the cheese while preparing dinner. By the time you get to the medicine cabinet the blood will have started to coagulate. The resulting scab helps shut out dirt, but it also can get in the way of cells responsible for repair work. A bandage prevents the wound from drying, helping cells move freely in and around the cut. As a bonus, the bandage also soaks up wound fluid which contains growth factors that stimulate the repair process. Of course, bacteria-like moisture too.

    So now to prevent infection, hospitals use bandages made of plastic wrap-like material that’s less porous than familiar bandages. This is better able to keep bacteria out. You can achieve some of the same results by smearing an antibiotic ointment on a cut and topping it off with a drugstore bandage. Read the label to make sure you’re using an antibiotic, which kills only bacteria and not an antiseptic like hydrogen peroxide, which can kill healthy cells too.

    Studies have shown patients whose cuts are bandaged, heal twice as fast as those left exposed. Although removing a bandage may not be the most pleasant experience, remember that wearing one will help your cut heal that much faster.

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    Break Out of Breakouts

    Posted on June 26, 2019 by The Neiman Dermatology Building

    As described in a previous blog post, “Don’t Stress about Acne,” acne is a common skin condition that effects millions of people. Although it is unclear as to what exactly causes it, there are some things you can do to improve the condition and get on the path to clearer skin.

    • Cut down on processed foods, especially ones with a high salt content. Too much salt can dehydrate the skin, which in turn, can make it tougher to get rid of acne.

    • Avoid drinking or eating too much alcohol, cheeses, or other dairy products.

    • Drink more water. Drinking water hydrates the skin by flushing out toxins, bodily waste, and germs that are trapped within it.

    • Cut down on your caffeine intake. Caffeine can increase a stress hormone which in turn can cause glands to over produce oil. This can then lead to clogged pores which means more acne.

    If you follow all the tips listed above and are still having acne concerns, contact our office.

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