From treatment of skin conditions such as acne, eczema, psoriasis and rosacea to removal of warts, moles and other lesions, our office provides a full range of general dermatological services so you can enjoy the healthy skin you deserve.

Acne

Acne is the term for the blocked pores, pimples, and deeper lumps that can appear on the face, neck, chest, back, shoulders and upper arms. 17 million Americans currently have acne, making it the most common skin disease in the country. It affects mostly teenagers, although adults of any age can have it.

Not only is acne unattractive, it can also cause permanent scarring and emotional distress. Fortunately, several treatment options are available. Patients with mild acne may be treated with ClearLight or prescription medications. For severe cases, Accutane, laser treatment or photodynamic therapy may be recommended.

Smoothbeam Laser on Acne Scars
Before		After

Acne scarring can be treated in a variety of ways including chemical peels, laser treatments, soft tissue fillers, microdermabrasion or Thermage.

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Moles & Birthmarks

Known as nevi (singular "nevus"), moles and other birthmarks are benign pigmented spots or patches of skin that range in color from tan, brown and black (moles) to red, pink or purple (vascular nevi, such as strawberry hemangiomas or port wine stains). Though most birthmarks are harmless, they may develop into cancer. Moles exhibiting any of the following warning signs should be examined by a professional immediately:

• Larger than six millimeters.
• Itches or bleeds.
• Rapidly changes in color, size or shape.
• Has multiple colors.
• Is located where it can't be easily monitored, such as on the scalp.

Depending on their depth, location and color, as well as the patient's skin type, age and other factors, treatment for benign but unattractive birthmarks may take the form of laser or pulsed light therapy, or surgical excision.

Eczema

Eczema is a term used to describe a group of inflamed skin conditions that result in chronic, relapsing and very itchy rashes. About 15 million people in the United States suffer from some form of eczema, including 10 to 20 percent of all infants. There is no known cause for the condition, but it appears to involve an overactive immune system in the presence of certain materials and often occurs in people susceptible to allergies. Symptoms vary from person to person but often include dry, red, itchy patches on the skin which, when scratched, tend to break out in rashes. Objects and conditions that trigger itchy eczema outbreaks may include rough or coarse materials touching the skin, excessive heat or sweating, soaps, detergents, disinfectants, fruit and meat juices, dust mites, animal saliva and danders, upper respiratory infections and stress. Avoidance of those triggers is the simplest way to minimize flare-ups.

The first and most critical step in preventing eczema is to restrain yourself from scratching. Moisturizing lotions or creams, cold compresses and nonprescription anti-inflammatory corticosteroid creams and ointments are often helpful. Beyond this, physicians may prescribe corticosteroid medication, antibiotics to combat infection or sedative antihistamines.

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Psoriasis

Psoriasis encompasses a group of chronic skin disorders that cause an itching and/or burning sensation, scaling and crusting of the skin. Over seven million men and women in the U.S. of all ages have some form of psoriasis, which may be mild, moderate or severe. The most commonly affected areas are the scalp, elbows, knees, hands, feet and genitals.

Psoriasis cannot be cured but it can be treated successfully, sometimes for months or years at a time and occasionally even permanently. Treatment depends on the type, severity and location of psoriasis; the patient's age, medical history and lifestyle; and the effect the disease has on the patient's general mental health. The most common treatments are topical medications, phototherapy, and oral or injectable medications (for severe symptoms). Our office provides narrow band UVB (lightbox) for the treatment of psoriasis.

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Rosacea

Rosacea is a chronic skin disease that causes redness and swelling on the face. The scalp, neck, ears, chest, back and/or eyes may also be affected. Symptoms range from red pimples, lines and visible blood vessels to dry or burning skin and a tendency to flush easily. Many people find that the emotional effects of rosacea - such as low self-confidence and avoidance of social situations - are more difficult to handle than the physical ones. Although it can affect anyone, rosacea typically appears in light-skinned, light-haired adults aged 30-50. It is not yet known what causes rosacea and the disease is not curable, although it can be treated with topical and oral medications, intense pulse light or laser therapy.

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Skin Cancer

Skin cancer refers to the abnormal, uncontrolled growth of skin cells. The most common skin cancers are basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. A rarer but more dangerous skin cancer is melanoma, the leading cause of death from skin disease. Risk factors for developing skin cancer include pale skin, family history of melanoma, history of blistering sunburns during childhood, freckling and regular sun exposure. Skin cancers vary in shape, color, size and texture, so any new, changed or otherwise suspicious growths or rashes should be examined immediately by a physician. Early intervention is essential to preventing the cancer from spreading.

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