School's back in session. Time for kids to run around outside, share toys and good times with friends, and - wait, what's that little white bump on Junior's cute little belly? Hold on, what are ALL those little bumps on his belly, and armpit, and arm?
The dermatologist confirms it: Junior has molluscum contagiosum. Moll-what?!
Molluscum contagiosum is a common condition caused by a type of virus called a poxvirus. As the name implies, it's contagious. Kids pass it on to each other by direct skin-to-skin contact. Swimming pools are often associated with infection. While any child can get it, kids with eczema or atopic dermatitis are at higher risk, and the mollusum often shows up in the same areas affected by eczema.
How is it treated? Well, sometimes they're not treated at all. Molluscum will often go away on their own, but it may take up to two years. Applying surgical tape daily to the spots has been reported as a successful treatment in some. Other treatments include topical retinoids, scraping (curettage) the lesions, freezing with liquid nitrogen, and applying a topical cream called imiquinod. An often successful treatment is applying cantharadin liquid in the doctor's office, that is then washed off after 4-6 hours. It causes blistering of the molluscum and then resolution. It's up to the doctor and the parents to decide which treatment plan would be best.
Oh, look, Junior's smiling again. Oh, he's laughing, how cute. Wait, what's on the roof of his mouth? Hand, foot, and what?!
Wednesday, August 29, 2012
Thursday, August 23, 2012
That tricky sun
Ah, the sun. While it's essential for life on earth, too much of it is not a good thing. We all know we should wear sunscreen and avoid too much exposure - but the specific reasons why aren't always so clear.
The biggie is skin cancer. Damage from ultraviolet light causes mutations in cells, which leads to skin cancers such as basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. Sunburns and tanning also increase the risk of developing melanoma, the most worrisome type of skin cancer.
And if that's not enough to make you reach for your tube of sunblock, let's talk about the havoc that the sun wreaks on beauty and youth. Ultraviolet light accelerates aging. Period.
Specifically, wrinkles, brown spots, and broken blood vessels (telangiectasias). Pre-existing pigment on the face gets darker with sun exposure. Exposure to the sun can also cause loss of pigment, which often shows up as little white spots on the arms and legs.
Although there are topical treatments, like bleaching creams and retinoids, as well as lasers, to correct these issues, if the skin is still exposed to the sun, they will recur.
So what's a South Florida lover to do? I've said it before, and I'll say it again... Sunblock, sun protective clothing, and avoiding the sun during peak hours is key. For overall skin health, protect your precious skin!
The biggie is skin cancer. Damage from ultraviolet light causes mutations in cells, which leads to skin cancers such as basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. Sunburns and tanning also increase the risk of developing melanoma, the most worrisome type of skin cancer.
And if that's not enough to make you reach for your tube of sunblock, let's talk about the havoc that the sun wreaks on beauty and youth. Ultraviolet light accelerates aging. Period.
Specifically, wrinkles, brown spots, and broken blood vessels (telangiectasias). Pre-existing pigment on the face gets darker with sun exposure. Exposure to the sun can also cause loss of pigment, which often shows up as little white spots on the arms and legs.
Although there are topical treatments, like bleaching creams and retinoids, as well as lasers, to correct these issues, if the skin is still exposed to the sun, they will recur.
So what's a South Florida lover to do? I've said it before, and I'll say it again... Sunblock, sun protective clothing, and avoiding the sun during peak hours is key. For overall skin health, protect your precious skin!
Monday, August 6, 2012
The Windows to the Soul
They say the eyes are the windows to the soul. Sometimes the window treatments need a little refreshing...
Lines around the eyes
Crow's feet result from squinting and repeated muscle movement. The most effective treatment for Crow's feet is botulinum toxin: Botox, Dysport, or Xeomin. For finer textural lines, a moisturizing eye cream, such as the TNS Illuminating eye cream, can help. Renova, a mild prescription retinoid, is often very effective but should be used sparingly. For lots of lines, fractional resurfacing with a laser like the Active FX can be very effective.
Hollows and Loose skin
Your two year old is only partly to blame. Hyaluronic acid fillers (Juvederm or Restylane) can be injected in the tear trough area to rejuvinate the contour under the eyes. A small amount should be used, as this is a delicate area. Loose skin around the eyes may be tightened with a radiofrequency treatment like Thermage or Exilis.
Dark circles
These usually result from broken blood vessels under the eyes, genetics, and allergies. If seasonal allergies are an issue, a daily antihistamine may be beneficial. Broken blood vessels may be corrected with a vascular laser.
Sparse lashes
Yes, there is a miracle-gro for lashes, and it's called Latisse. This FDA approved medication can increase the volume and length of lashes in about 6-8 weeks.
Little tricks for poofs
Applying cold moisturizer helps to relieve puffiness under the eyes. Sleeping on more than one pillow and avoiding foods high in salt help, too.
Usually, a combination of treatments are needed to make your eyes sparkle.
Lines around the eyes
Crow's feet result from squinting and repeated muscle movement. The most effective treatment for Crow's feet is botulinum toxin: Botox, Dysport, or Xeomin. For finer textural lines, a moisturizing eye cream, such as the TNS Illuminating eye cream, can help. Renova, a mild prescription retinoid, is often very effective but should be used sparingly. For lots of lines, fractional resurfacing with a laser like the Active FX can be very effective.
Hollows and Loose skin
Your two year old is only partly to blame. Hyaluronic acid fillers (Juvederm or Restylane) can be injected in the tear trough area to rejuvinate the contour under the eyes. A small amount should be used, as this is a delicate area. Loose skin around the eyes may be tightened with a radiofrequency treatment like Thermage or Exilis.
Dark circles
These usually result from broken blood vessels under the eyes, genetics, and allergies. If seasonal allergies are an issue, a daily antihistamine may be beneficial. Broken blood vessels may be corrected with a vascular laser.
Sparse lashes
Yes, there is a miracle-gro for lashes, and it's called Latisse. This FDA approved medication can increase the volume and length of lashes in about 6-8 weeks.
Little tricks for poofs
Applying cold moisturizer helps to relieve puffiness under the eyes. Sleeping on more than one pillow and avoiding foods high in salt help, too.
Usually, a combination of treatments are needed to make your eyes sparkle.
Monday, July 23, 2012
My favorite filler
People often ask: what's your favorite filler to use?
The simple answer: all of them.
What filler I use depends on a few things: whether the person has had fillers injected before, how much volume the person has lost, what area we are injecting, and how quickly the person wants to see results.
To start, the three main types of fillers I use are the hyaluronic acid fillers (juvederm, restylane, and perlane); calcium hydroxylapatite (radiesse), and poly-L-lactic acid (sculptra).
The hyaluronic acid fillers usually last 9 months- 1 year. They are my filler of choice for lip augmentation and tear troughs (undereye hollows). They are also a great option for people that have never done any fillers before. This group of fillers can be dissolved by an injection of an enzyme called hyaluronidase. Hyaluronic acid can also be used for cheek rejuvination, nasolabial folds, marionette lines, and chin improvement. Care must be taken not to inject too superficially, because they will look blue under the skin.
Calcium hydroxylapatite tends to last about 18 months. This filler is more "substantial" than the hyaluronic acids and tends to give a little more lift. It's a great choice for those who have had fillers injected previously and want something more volumizing and longer lasting. It needs to be injected deeper than the hyaluronic acid fillers. Cheeks and lower face (marionette lines, jawline, chin) can all be reshaped with calcium hydroxylapatite. Results are instantaneous.
Poly-L-lactic acid works differently than the other fillers. It stimulates collagen formation over a series of treatments about 4-6 weeks apart. This treatment works well for hollowed areas, such as the temples, cheeks, and lower face. Because the changes come about slowly, results are gradual and natural. Results can last for 2 years.
Talk to your dermatologist about what filler (or combination of fillers) is right for you. In the right hands, a natural, more youthful look can be easily achieved.
The simple answer: all of them.
What filler I use depends on a few things: whether the person has had fillers injected before, how much volume the person has lost, what area we are injecting, and how quickly the person wants to see results.
To start, the three main types of fillers I use are the hyaluronic acid fillers (juvederm, restylane, and perlane); calcium hydroxylapatite (radiesse), and poly-L-lactic acid (sculptra).
The hyaluronic acid fillers usually last 9 months- 1 year. They are my filler of choice for lip augmentation and tear troughs (undereye hollows). They are also a great option for people that have never done any fillers before. This group of fillers can be dissolved by an injection of an enzyme called hyaluronidase. Hyaluronic acid can also be used for cheek rejuvination, nasolabial folds, marionette lines, and chin improvement. Care must be taken not to inject too superficially, because they will look blue under the skin.
Calcium hydroxylapatite tends to last about 18 months. This filler is more "substantial" than the hyaluronic acids and tends to give a little more lift. It's a great choice for those who have had fillers injected previously and want something more volumizing and longer lasting. It needs to be injected deeper than the hyaluronic acid fillers. Cheeks and lower face (marionette lines, jawline, chin) can all be reshaped with calcium hydroxylapatite. Results are instantaneous.
Poly-L-lactic acid works differently than the other fillers. It stimulates collagen formation over a series of treatments about 4-6 weeks apart. This treatment works well for hollowed areas, such as the temples, cheeks, and lower face. Because the changes come about slowly, results are gradual and natural. Results can last for 2 years.
Talk to your dermatologist about what filler (or combination of fillers) is right for you. In the right hands, a natural, more youthful look can be easily achieved.
Tuesday, July 17, 2012
Those silly derm terms...
Sometimes derm terms are a little confusing...
Ringworm is not from a worm.
You can't contract Lyme disease from margaritas.
Cafe au lait spots are not caused by downing too many mochaccinos.
Molluscum contagiosum has nothing to do with escargot. (Have no idea what that is? Just wait until you have kids!)
Similarly, chickenpox is not from poultry.
Ain't nothing funny about laugh lines. Or frown lines. Or crow's feet - which are not from birds.
Spider veins do not mean arachnids are living on you.
Cherry angiomas can not be purchased in the produce aisle.
I could go on and on...
Ringworm is not from a worm.
You can't contract Lyme disease from margaritas.
Cafe au lait spots are not caused by downing too many mochaccinos.
Molluscum contagiosum has nothing to do with escargot. (Have no idea what that is? Just wait until you have kids!)
Similarly, chickenpox is not from poultry.
Ain't nothing funny about laugh lines. Or frown lines. Or crow's feet - which are not from birds.
Spider veins do not mean arachnids are living on you.
Cherry angiomas can not be purchased in the produce aisle.
I could go on and on...
Monday, July 2, 2012
Botox myths debunked
Hating the lines on your forehead but still hesitating to get Botox? Here's the skinny on one of my favorite beauty treatments.
"I'm afraid I'll look wierd."
With proper technique, a very natural, more youthful result can be achieved. Botox, dysport, and xeomin can smooth the "eleven" lines between the eyebrows, which make people appear angry, even when they're not. It can relax lines across the forehead, as well as crow's feet. It can stop wrinkles on the nose (bunny lines), a dimpled chin (golf ball chin), and tight neck bands. A board certified dermatologist with cosmetic experience has the training necessary for beautiful, natural, "non-wierd" results.
"I don't think it's safe."
Botox has been used in millions of patients for 20 years in the treatment of both medical and cosmetic conditions. While there are certain patients that should not have the treatment (those with an allergy to the product, certain neuromuscular conditions, those pregnant or nursing), when used correctly, it is overall a very safe treatment, with serious side effects being extremely rare.
"I don't want to look worse once it wears off."
The effects of Botox last about three months. It works by temporarily stopping the release of a chemical from nerves called acetylcholine which instructs muscles to contract. After a short period of time, the nerves begin releasing the chemical again, and the muscle will contract, just like they did before. Wrinkles will return to what they were before the treatment.
Botox injections are one of the most popular cosmetic procedures performed worldwide. With no cutting or downtime, a little can go a long way.
"I'm afraid I'll look wierd."
With proper technique, a very natural, more youthful result can be achieved. Botox, dysport, and xeomin can smooth the "eleven" lines between the eyebrows, which make people appear angry, even when they're not. It can relax lines across the forehead, as well as crow's feet. It can stop wrinkles on the nose (bunny lines), a dimpled chin (golf ball chin), and tight neck bands. A board certified dermatologist with cosmetic experience has the training necessary for beautiful, natural, "non-wierd" results.
"I don't think it's safe."
Botox has been used in millions of patients for 20 years in the treatment of both medical and cosmetic conditions. While there are certain patients that should not have the treatment (those with an allergy to the product, certain neuromuscular conditions, those pregnant or nursing), when used correctly, it is overall a very safe treatment, with serious side effects being extremely rare.
"I don't want to look worse once it wears off."
The effects of Botox last about three months. It works by temporarily stopping the release of a chemical from nerves called acetylcholine which instructs muscles to contract. After a short period of time, the nerves begin releasing the chemical again, and the muscle will contract, just like they did before. Wrinkles will return to what they were before the treatment.
Botox injections are one of the most popular cosmetic procedures performed worldwide. With no cutting or downtime, a little can go a long way.
Tuesday, June 5, 2012
We all scream for sunscreen
June 18th, the new sunscreen labeling officially goes into effect. So what does this mean?
Sunscreens can only be labeled "broad spectrum" if they pass the FDA's test of protecting against both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays cause aging (A for aging) of the skin, UVB rays cause burning (B for burning), and both are responsible for skin cancer.
Only sunscreens with an SPF (sun protective factor) of 15 or higher can claim to help reduce the risk of skin cancer and early aging.
Words like "waterproof," "sweatproof" or "sunblock" can not be used on the label.
The FDA must approve if a sunscreen can claim that it protects the skin for more than 2 hours without reapplying.
Hopefully the labeling changes will help to inform consumers and allow them to pick sunscreens with the most protection. But applying sunscreen is just one part of the equation. Sun protective clothing, like hats, and shirts with fabrics designed to provide UPF factors of 50 are important. Avoiding exposure during peak times of the day reduces your risk. Protect your precious skin!
Sunscreens can only be labeled "broad spectrum" if they pass the FDA's test of protecting against both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays cause aging (A for aging) of the skin, UVB rays cause burning (B for burning), and both are responsible for skin cancer.
Only sunscreens with an SPF (sun protective factor) of 15 or higher can claim to help reduce the risk of skin cancer and early aging.
Words like "waterproof," "sweatproof" or "sunblock" can not be used on the label.
The FDA must approve if a sunscreen can claim that it protects the skin for more than 2 hours without reapplying.
Hopefully the labeling changes will help to inform consumers and allow them to pick sunscreens with the most protection. But applying sunscreen is just one part of the equation. Sun protective clothing, like hats, and shirts with fabrics designed to provide UPF factors of 50 are important. Avoiding exposure during peak times of the day reduces your risk. Protect your precious skin!
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