Wrinkles are a normal part of the aging process. The most common contributors to premature aging of the skin include genetics, spending too much time in the sun, smoking and poor diet.  Avoiding or limiting these activities can help prevent and lessen the effects of wrinkles.

Not all wrinkles can be avoided, and when quick, dramatic results are desired, Botox®may be a viable solution for removing wrinkles on the face caused by daily muscle contraction of your natural facial expressions.  Botox® works by temporarily blocking nerve impulses, which reduces the movement of those particular muscles. With less movement, the skin surface is gradually smoothed, the lines begin to fade, and your natural vibrant skin strengthens and returns.  

During treatment, very low doses of Botox® are administered by way of small injections. FDA-approved, Botox® is a safe and minimally invasive treatment. It takes just a few minutes and can last about 3-4 months.   

In as little as 24 hours following treatment, patients begin to see major improvement in the appearance of their wrinkles, and continue to see improvement in the days following. The effects are not permanent and may need to be repeated as directed by your dermatologist. 

If you are interested in learning more about Botox ® cosmetic treatments, contact The Dermatology Clinic and we will be happy to answer your questions.  Young, healthy skin is easily attainable with the help of your Baton Rouge dermatologist.

Scars are a natural part of the skin’s healing process, and most small scars fade over time to become nearly invisible.  The larger and more severe the skin damage and the longer it takes to heal, however, the more prominent the scar will be. If the appearance of a scar bothers you, a visit to your Baton Rouge dermatologist may be in order.

Today, dermatologists offer many cosmetic treatment options that can significantly reduce the appearance of large, raised scars.  Although scars cannot be eliminated entirely, modern cosmetic techniques can significantly minimize their visibility for an improved appearance.  

Leading cosmetic dermatology options include:

• Dermabrasion: A technique that involves removing the upper layer of the skin, allowing new skin to regenerate.
• Laser scar removal: Using a high-energy light, a dermatologist can remove or reshape disfigured scar tissue.   Different types of laser scar removal are used for different types of scarring.  
• Microdermabrasion: A non-chemical, non-invasive procedure that applies microscopic crystals.  This gently exfoliates and smooths the outermost layer of dead skin cells, revealing younger, healthier looking skin.
• Chemical peels:  Typically administered as a facial peel, this treatment involves applying an acid solution to remove and smooth the scarred outer layers of skin.
• Topical cream, gel or ointment: Special creams can be applied directly to a scar to soften the tissue and promote healing.  

In some cases, more than one treatment, or a combination of procedures, may be recommended to attain your optimal results. The Dermatology Clinic can help you determine the best treatment for your specific goals and degree of scarring.

If you are concerned about the appearance of your scars, visit your Baton Rouge dermatologist.  Most scarring is highly treatable by an expert. The Dermatology Clinic can assess the scar, review treatment options and help you select the most effective therapy for significantly reducing your scars’ visibility.  

In addition to the visual appearance of the veins, many people may experience the following symptoms:

• Leg pain
• Leg fatigue or heaviness
• Burning sensations in the leg
• Swelling/throbbing in the leg
• Tenderness surrounding the veins

Varicose veins may remain merely a cosmetic issue or can progress to more serious health complications. Delaying treatment may cause leg discoloration, swelling and ulceration, or predispose to blood clots. It’s important to consult your regular physician when you first notice signs of varicose veins.  

For patients troubled by the appearance of their veins, there is help. Varicose veins can easily be removed with the help of a dermatologist at The Dermatology Clinic. A time-tested treatment, sclerotherapyis a simple, safe and effective non-surgical procedure used to treat unwanted varicose veins.  

Sclerotherapy diminishes the appearance of varicose veins by injecting a “sclerosing agent” into target veins to shrink the vessels and minimize their appearance. While a specific treatment plan can only be determined following a consultation with your dermatologist, most patients notice a significant reduction, if not total elimination, of their unwanted veins over a period of weeks to months of treatment.

Sclerotherapy has been used for generations by dermatologists to help patients eliminate spider and varicose veins. Sclerotherapy can enhance your appearance and improve your self-confidence.  Visit your Baton Rouge dermatologist at The Dermatology Clinic for an initial consultation and find out if you are a good candidate.

You can’t control the harsh winter climate, but you can protect your skin by learning how to manage the factors that trigger dry, flaky skin.  For starters, apply a heavy moisturizer or cream daily to help retain moisture and keep skin from drying out.  Since strong, brisk winds can cause chapped skin, it is also important to cover exposed areas by wearing a hat, scarf or mittens when going out into the cold air.

Furnaces, radiators and fireplaces that you use to heat your home during cold winter months may feel wonderful in the middle of winter, but they can be extremely drying. To add moisture back into your home, try using a humidifier.  Frequent showering and hand washing can also dry out your skin. Keep skin moist with lotion or cream immediately after you shower and wash your hands to seal in moisture.

No matter what season you’re in, if your dry skin becomes inflamed or develops a painful itch, visit The Dermatology Clinic for a proper evaluation and treatment plan.  A Baton Rouge dermatologist can help you modify your current skin regimen accordingly to help skin stay healthy with the changing seasons.

• Wash your face and gently pat it dry.
• Wait approximately 15 minutes, and then press lens-cleaning tissue paper on different areas of your face.
• If the paper sticks or picks up oil on all parts of your skin, then you have oily skin.
• If the paper does not stick on any part of your face, then you have dry skin.
• If the paper only sticks to your chin, nose and forehead, then you have normal or combination skin.

Normal Skin Types
The ideal skin type, normal skin is characterized by a smooth, even tone and usually blemish free.  It also tolerates most skin care lotions and creams. A regular skin care regimen combined with a balanced diet is often enough to maintain healthy, youthful skin.

Dry Skin Types
People with dry skin lack natural moisture.  Dry skin may flake during the winter months, and chapping or cracking may occur when skin is extremely dry or dehydrated. Applying gentle moisturizer throughout the day and drinking plenty of water can help relieve dryness and also fight against premature aging. Avoid overexposure to the sun, harsh winds and smoking which can aggravate dry skin.

Oily Skin Types
If you have oily skin, you may be more prone to acne due to excessive oil secretions (sebum) on the face.  Oily skin may appear greasy, and is commonly seen among adolescents due to hormonal changes which increase production of sebum.  To manage oily skin, use cosmetics sparingly and only apply oil-free products when possible. Wash skin once or twice a day, avoid lotions and creams, and always remove makeup before going to bed.

Combination Skin Types
Combination skin is a blend of both dry and oily skin, most often characterized by an oily T-zone (forehead, nose and chin) and a dry neck and cheeks.  Different parts of the face may require slightly different care.  Applying a toner or anti-acne product on the T-zone to remove residual oils and impurities may be helpful in managing oily skin, while a mild moisturizer may be needed for the cheeks.

Having trouble determining your skin type?  Visit The Dermatology Clinic for expert skin care advice and a personalized treatment plan for every type of skin. The state of our skin is affected by nutrition, general and emotional health, exercise and genes. How well you care for your skin will play an important role in achieving your healthy glow.

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, nail problems comprise about 10 percent of all skin conditions, affecting a large number of older adults. Brittle nails are common nail problems, typically triggered by age and the environment.  Other conditions include ingrown toenails, nail fungus, warts, cysts or psoriasis of the nails. All of these common ailments can be affectively treated with proper diagnosis from a dermatologist.

Mirror on Health

A person’s nails can reveal a lot about their overall health. While most nail problems aren’t severe, many serious health conditions can be detected by changes in the nails, including liver diseases, kidney diseases, heart conditions, lung diseases, diabetes and anemia. That’s why it’s important to visit your dermatologist at The Dermatology Clinic if you notice any unusual changes in your nails.

Basic Nail Care

It’s easy to neglect your nails, but with basic nail care, you can help keep your fingernails and toenails looking and feeling great. Here’s how:

• Keep nails clean and dry to prevent bacteria from building up under the nail.
• Cut fingernails and toenails straight across to prevent ingrown nails and trauma.
• Avoid tight-fitting footwear.
• Apply an anti-fungal foot powder daily or when needed.
• Avoid biting and picking fingernails as infectious organisms can be transferred between the fingers and mouth.
• Wear gloves to protect your fingernails when doing yard work or cleaning house to protect the nails from harsh chemicals and trauma.
• When in doubt about self-treatment for nail problems, visit The Dermatology Clinic for proper diagnosis and care.

Always notify a dermatologist at our [city] office of nail irregularities, such as swelling, pain or change in shape or color of the nail. Remember, your nails can tell you a lot about your overall health, and a dermatologist can help determine the appropriate treatment for any of your nail problems.

The intensely itchy rash is an allergic reaction to the sap and can appear on any part of the body.  The severity of the reaction varies from person to person, depending on how much sap penetrates the skin and how sensitive the person is to it. The most common symptoms include:

• Itchy skin
• Redness or streaks
• Hives
• Swelling
• Small or large blisters
• Crusting skin when blisters have burst

When other parts of the body come into contact with the oil, the rash may continue to spread to new parts of the body. A common misconception is that people can develop the rash from touching another person’s poison ivy rash. However, you cannot give the rash to someone else.  The person has to touch the actual oil from the plant in order have an allergic reaction.

When to See Your Baton Rouge Dermatologist

Generally, a rash from poison ivy, oak or sumac will last 1 to 3 weeks and will go away on its own without treatment.   But if you aren’t sure whether or not your rash is caused by poison ivy, or if you need treatment to relieve the itch, you may want to visit The Dermatology Clinic for proper diagnosis and care.  You should also see your dermatologist if the rash is serious, in which case prescription medicine may be necessary.  Swelling is a sign of serious infection.

Other signs that your rash may be serious include:

• Conservative treatments won’t ease the itch
• Rash begins to spread to numerous parts of the body
• Pus, pain, swelling, warmth and other signs of infection are accompanying the rash
• Fever
• Facial swelling, especially on the eyelids
• Rash develops on face, eyelids, lips or genitals
• Breathing or swallowing becomes difficult

To avoid getting the rash caused by poison ivy, oak or sumac, learn how to recognize what these plants look like and stay away.  Always wear long pants and long sleeves when you anticipate being in wooded areas, and wear gloves when gardening. If you come into contact with the plants, wash your skin and clothing immediately.  

Poison ivy, oak and sumaccan be a real nuisance and often difficult to detect.  As a general rule, remember the common saying, “Leaves of three—let them be.” And if you do get the rash, visit The Dermatology Clinic for proper care.

Although the exact cause of rosacea is unknown, you may be more susceptible to rosacea if:

• You are fair-skinned
• You blush easily
• You are female
• You have a family history of rosacea
• You are between the ages of 30 and 50

A frequent source of social embarrassment, for many people rosacea affects more than just the face. Rosacea is a chronic skin disease, which means it lasts for a lifetime. Learning what triggers your rosacea is an important way to reduce flare-ups and manage symptoms. This may include avoiding stress, too much sunlight, heavy exercise, extreme temperatures and certain foods or beverages.

Rosacea frequently causes the cheeks to have a flushed or red appearance. The longer rosacea goes untreated, the higher the potential for permanent redness of the cheeks, nose and forehead. Symptoms of rosacea will not be the same for every person. Common symptoms include:

• Facial burning and stinging
• Facial flushing and blush that evolves to persistent redness
• Redness on the cheeks, nose, chin or forehead
• Small, visible broken blood vessels on the face
• Acne-like breakouts on the face
• Watery or irritated eyes

If you recognize any of the warning signs of rosacea, visit The Dermatology Clinic for proper diagnosis. A dermatologist will examine your skin for common warning signs and tailor a treatment plan for your unique condition.  Treatment will vary for each individual, ranging from topical medicine, antibiotics and lasers or light treatment. While there is currently no cure, with proper management patients can learn how to avoid triggers, prevent flare-ups and manage their condition to live a healthy, active life.

Symptoms of psoriasis are different for every person and can vary in intensity over time. Some people may even go months or years without symptoms before flare-ups return. Symptoms of psoriasis can manifest in many ways, including:

• Rough, scaly skin
• Cracks on fingertips
• Simple tasks are painful, such as tying your shoe
• Brown, uneven nails
• Flaky skin
• Joint pain or aching
• Severe itching

The onset of psoriasis can occur at any age, although it most often occurs in adults.  The disease is non-contagious and is thought to be genetic. Because psoriasis is a persistent, systemic autoimmune disease, people with psoriasis will have it for a lifetime. Most people who suffer from psoriasis can lead healthy, active lives, however, with proper management and care. 

Coping with Psoriasis: Your Dermatologist can Help

Currently, there is no cure for psoriasis, but with the help of The Dermatology Clinic, you can learn how to cope with the condition, reduce psoriasis symptoms and keep outbreaks under control for an improved quality of life. Treatment depends on how serious the psoriasis is; the type of psoriasis; and how the patient responds to certain treatments.

What to Look For

Remember the ABCDE's of melanoma when examining your moles. If your mole fits any of these criteria, you should visit The Dermatology Clinic as soon as possible.  

• Asymmetry. One half of the mole does not match the other half.
• Border. The border or edges of the mole are poorly defined or irregular.
• Color. The color of the mole is not the same throughout or has shades of tan, brown, black, blue, white, or red.
• Diameter. The diameter of a mole is larger than the eraser of a pencil.
• Evolution. The mole is changing in size, shape, or color.

Moles can appear anywhere on the skin, including the scalp, between the fingers and toes, on the soles of the feet, and even under the nails. The best way to detect skin cancer in its earliest, most curable stage is by checking your skin regularly and visiting our Baton Rouge office for a full-body skin cancer screening. Use this guide to perform a self-exam.

• Use a mirror to examine your entire body, starting at your head and working your way to the toes. Also be sure to check difficult to see areas, including between your fingers and toes; the groin; the soles of your feet; and the backs of your knees.
• Pay special attention to the areas exposed to the most sun.
• Don't forget to check your scalp and neck for moles. Use a handheld mirror or ask a family member to help you.
• Develop a mental note or keep a record of all the moles on your body and what they look like. If they do change in any way (color, shape, size, border, etc.), or if any new moles look suspicious, visit The Dermatology Clinic right away.  

Skin cancer has a high cure rate if detected and treated early. The most common warning sign is a visible change on the skin, a new growth, or a change in an existing mole. Depending on the size and location of the mole, dermatologists may use different methods of mole removal. A body check performed by a dermatologist can help determine whether the moles appearing on the body are pre-cancerous or harmless.

• Dry, red and extremely itchy patches of skin
• Cracked, inflamed  and scaly skin
• Small bumps or blisters that ooze and weep
• In infants, the rash generally appears on the cheeks and around the mouth

Eczema outbreaks are caused by an overreaction of your skin’s immune system to environmental and emotional triggers, such as temperature, chemicals, dust, mold or stress. While there is currently no cure, eczema sufferers can practice self-care at home to help reduce flare-ups.  Lifestyle adjustments are the best line of defense in controlling all types of eczema. Goals of treatment include reducing inflammation, decreasing risk of infection and alleviating the itch. To minimize symptoms and outbreaks:

•  Moisturize every day to prevent dryness and cracking.
• Limit contact with irritants, such as soaps, clothing, jewelry, foods and detergents.
• Avoid sudden changes in temperatures as overheating and sweating are common triggers of flare-ups.
• Reduce stress and anxiety.
• Minimize exposure to mold, pollens and animal dander.
• Opt for cotton, loose-fitting clothes and avoid wool and other rough materials.

 
Treatment for eczema begins with a proper diagnosis from your Baton Rouge dermatologist.  If you are diagnosed with eczema, The Dermatology Clinic can explain your type of eczema and can work with you to tailor a treatment plan that meets your individual needs to effectively manage the symptoms.

• Fair skin
• Excessive sun exposure during childhood
• Family history of melanoma
• More than 50 moles on the skin
• Several freckles
• Sun-sensitive skin that rarely tans or burns easily

Melanoma can appear suddenly—as a new mole—or it can grow slowly, near or in an existing mole. The most common early signs of melanoma are:

• An open sore that repeatedly heals and re-opens
• A mole or growth that takes on an uneven shape, grows larger or changes in color or texture
• An existing mole that continues to bleed, itch, hurt, scab or fade

Because melanoma can spread quickly to other parts of the body, it is important to find melanoma as early as possible. The best way to detect changes in your moles and skin markings is by doing self-examinations regularly. If you find suspicious moles, have them checked by The Dermatology Clinic.
Visiting your Baton Rouge dermatologist for a routine exam is also important. During this skin cancer "screening," your dermatologist will discuss your medical history and inspect your skin from head to toe, recording the location, size, and color of any moles. Melanoma may be the most serious form of skin cancer, but it is also very curable when detected early.

Many factors can contribute to the onset of wrinkles, which are frequently produced by years of unprotected sun exposure in combination with each person’s unique genetic predisposition.  Wrinkles are a by-product of the aging process. As we age, our skin loses its elasticity, is less capable of retaining moisture and is slower to heal.  All of these contribute to the development of wrinkles and sagging skin.

Daily skincare and proper sun protection are important factors in slowing the aging process, diminishing fine lines and minimizing wrinkles.   

• Take your vitamins.  Many vitamins are good for the skin. Vitamin C, a natural antioxidant found in citrus fruits and dark green leafy vegetables, can help reduce the appearance of sun damage.
• Apply sunscreen.  Protecting yourself from sun exposure can help prevent the progression of fine lines.  The American Academy of Dermatology recommends applying a sunscreen with a SPF of at least 30 to protect against harmful UV rays.  
• Moisturize.  Dry skin causes the skin to look dull and aged. To prevent dry skin, apply moisturizer every day.   
• Get your beauty sleep.  When your body doesn’t get enough sleep, it produces excess cortisol, a hormone that breaks down skin cells.  Keep your skin looking and feeling young by getting at least seven hours of sleep every night.
• Avoid tanning beds. Tanning beds emit harmful UVA rays and are never “safe” alternatives to the sun.
• Take care of your hands. Our hands are often times the first to reveal signs of aging as they are the most used and exposed parts of the body. Protect the hands by wearing gloves, moisturizing and applying sunscreen.
• Quit smoking.  Smoking may damage more than your lungs—it causes skin aging and wrinkles around the mouth.

Like it or not, wrinkles are a natural part of aging. Even the most diligent skincare regimen or the most expensive wrinkle cream won’t totally eliminate your fine lines. You can significantly reduce the appearance of your wrinkles, however.  Start taking care of your skin now, embrace your age, and love the skin you’re in!

For additional information, visit The Dermatology Clinic to learn more about skincare techniques and prevention for healthier, younger looking skin. Or, ask our Baton Rouge office about anti-aging skin therapy procedures that can tighten your skin, reduce sun damage and soften wrinkles.

While hormonal changes during puberty cause many types of acne to be unavoidable, with a diligent skincare regimen, many teens can help control breakouts from becoming severe, minimize the appearance of blemishes and prevent scarring.

• Keep skin clean. Teens produce more oil, so it's important to wash the face every day with warm water and a mild cleanser to remove excess surface oils and dead skin cells. Always remove makeup before going to bed to avoid clogging pores.
• Avoid over washing. Harsh scrubbing can lead to dry, irritated skin which can actually increase inflammation and trigger glands to produce more oil.
• Don't pick. Squeezing and picking at acne can make breakouts worse. Picking at blemishes can also lead to greater inflammation and infection, increasing the risk for scarring.
• Keep hands off. Avoid touching the face throughout the day as the oils on hands can drive bacteria into the pores.
• Use oil-free products. Avoid oil-based makeup. Instead look for products that are noncomedogenic or non-acnegenic.
• Shower after sports or physical activities. Sweat and oil can settle on the skin's surface trapping dirt and bacteria in the pores.
• Visit your dermatologist. Most cases of mild acne can be controlled and improved with a good skincare routine at home. If your skin problems persist, visit The Dermatology Clinic for professional treatment.

Being a teenager is tough enough without having to worry about breakouts. The good news is that effective treatments are available for acne -- and the earlier treatment is started, the lower a teen's risk of lasting physical and emotional damage. When home care is not helping, talk to one of our eight board-certified dermatologists about treatment options. The Dermatology Clinic can help tailor a treatment plan that is best for you or your teen's unique skin type and needs.

Not only is chronic adult acne frustrating, but it can also have long-lasting effects on the self-esteem and confidence of those suffering from it. To combat blemishes, follow a few basic guidelines to improve your skin's condition.

• Avoid the urge to pick or squeeze pimples. Aggravating your acne will only increase inflammation, delay the healing process and lead to scarring.
• Follow a daily skincare regimen, as recommended by your Baton Rouge dermatologist, to remove oils, make up and sweat from the surface of your skin.
• When wearing make-up, only use oil-free cosmetics.
• Avoid over-washing your skin as this can make your acne worse.
• Wash gently with a mild facial cleanser once or twice a day. Be cautious of harsh cleansing products that lead to dry, irritated skin.
• Eat a well-balanced diet.
• Limit exposure to sun and excess cold.

Fortunately, the physical and emotional effects of acne can be reversed with proper treatment. While adult acne can be persistent, an individualized treatment plan from our Baton Rouge office can help you reduce blemishes, prevent scarring and eliminate your acne. With diligent home care and help from The Dermatology Clinic your acne can be significantly improved - enabling you to regain your confidence for a better, rejuvenated life.

Skin cancers fall into two major categories: melanoma and non-melanoma.

• Basal cell carcinoma is rarely fatal and most commonly appears after the age of 40 in the form of lesions on the head or neck area, which may increase in size or bleed easily.
• Squamous cell carcinoma generally develops in people over 50 on sun-damaged skin. This is the most common form of non-melanoma cancer, and treatment is usually surgical or radiation therapy. These growths appear as flat and red, becoming raised, scaly patches.
• Melanoma is the most severe form of skin cancer, often occurring on the back of men and the legs of women. Risk increases with age, and the average age of detection is between 45-50 years old. It usually appears as a dark flat or raised area on the skin, and is often irregular in shape. Left untreated, melanoma can spread to other parts of the body.

First step: prevention

The good news is that with early detection and treatment, non-melanoma cancers can be cured in over 99% of the cases, and melanoma is readily detectable and usually curable if treated early.

To start protecting your skin, limit sun exposure by seeking shade and always wearing sunscreen, even during the winter months. When possible, wear hats and sunglasses to protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays. Sun exposure is one of the biggest contributors to skin cancer, including tanning booths. People with fair skin, several moles or freckles, or a family history of skin cancer are also at an increased risk for developing skin cancers.

Early detection and self-exams can save your life

Many types of skin cancer grow slowly, while some melanomas can appear very quickly. Detected in its early stages, skin cancer is very treatable. Use a mirror to examine unreachable parts of your body or ask a family member or friend to assist you. Check your moles regularly for any changes in appearance or sensitivity, and contact our Baton Rouge office for unusual signs.

Skin cancer may be one of the most common types of cancer, but it is also one of the most preventable and curable. Take steps now to protect your skin and visit The Dermatology Clinic for regular exams or unusual findings.

There are a wide variety of sunscreens available, including lotions, sprays, creams, gels, wipes, and lip balms, to name a few. These topical products absorb or reflect some, but not all, of the sun's ultraviolet (UV) radiation on the skin to help protect against sun damage. But which one is right for you? The Dermatology Clinic can help you find the best sunscreen for your needs and lifestyle.

SPF -- what's in a number?

SPF (Sun Protection Factor) provides an indication of how effectively a sunscreen can protect your skin from the ultraviolet-B (UVB) light -- the rays that cause sunburn and skin cancer. A higher SPF number represents a higher level of protection. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends sunscreen products with a sun protection factor of at least 30.

Today, sunscreens with SPFs as high as 100 are available, but a higher number doesn't necessarily mean more protection. For instance, many people believe a sunscreen with SPF 45 would give 3 times as much protection as one with an SPF of 15. This is not true. SPF 15 sunscreens filter out about 93% of UVB rays, while SPF 30 sunscreens filter out about 97%. SPF 50 sunscreens filter approximately 98% while SPF 100 provides 99%. The higher you go, the smaller the difference becomes. No sunscreen can provide complete protection.

Apply Sunscreen Properly

Regardless of the SPF rating, sunscreen should be reapplied often for optimal protection. A majority of people do not apply a layer of sunscreen thickly, so the actual protection they get is less. For best results, most sunscreens must be reapplied at least every two hours and even more often if you are swimming or sweating. Apply sunscreen generously, paying close attention to face, ears, arms, neck and all other areas exposed to the sun. Sunscreens do expire, so always check the expiration date to make sure it is still effective.

Sun Exposure Linked to Cancer

Sun exposure is the most preventable risk factor for all skin cancers, including melanoma. To limit your amount of exposure to UV rays, follow these easy steps.

• Avoid mid-day sun, as the sun's rays are most intense during 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Remember that clouds do not block UV rays.
• Use extra caution near water, snow and sand.
• Avoid tanning beds and sun lamps which emit UVA and UVB rays.
• Wear hats and protective clothing when possible to minimize your body's exposure to the sun.
• Generously apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 30 to all exposed skin. Re-apply every two hours and after swimming or sweating.
• Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes and area around your eyes.

Risks Factors

Everyone's skin can be affected by UV rays. People with fair skin run a higher risk of sunburns. Aside from skin tone, factors that may increase your risk for sun damage and skin cancer include:

• Previously treated for cancer
• Family history of skin cancer
• Several moles
• Freckles
• Typically burn before tanning
• Blond, red or light brown hair

If you detect unusual moles, spots or changes in your skin, or if your skin easily bleeds, make an appointment with The Dermatology Clinic. Changes in skin may be a sign of skin cancer. With early detection from your Baton Rouge dermatologist, skin cancers have a high cure rate and response to treatment. Additionally, if you want to reduce signs of aged skin, seek the advice of your dermatologist for a variety of skin-rejuvenating treatment options.

As we move forward with our blog, we hope to promote dermatological awareness as a vital part of your healthy lifestyle. Here you will find a variety of articles and topics including dermatology news, advancements in dermatology and treatment and updates from our dermatologist.

We hope you find our blog to be helpful, engaging and informational to ensure your best dermatological health.

The good news is that you can reduce signs of aging on your hands with improved care at home and the help of your dermatologist in Baton Rouge.   

Basic tips for improved hand care include:

• Keep your hands moisturized. Dry, cracked hands appear dull and older. Applying a cream periodically throughout the day will give your hands a healthy glow and a more youthful appearance.
• Protect your hands from the sun.  The back of the hands are extremely vulnerable to UV damage because they are almost always exposed to sun light. Take extra precautions by applying sunscreen.
• Wear gloves during household chores or yard work to protect your hands.
• To prevent chapping or dry skin, avoid frequent hand washing.  Use a mild soap with warm water.
• Wear gloves in the winter to protect hands from cold, harsh temperatures.

In some cases, a dermatologist may recommend rejuvenation techniques that have long been successful in treating the face.  These procedures add volume to the hand and remove discoloration, wrinkles and damage to reverse telltale signs of aging.  Visit your dermatologist in Baton Rouge to find out if these treatments are offered and recommended options for you.

Because we put so much emphasis on our facial skin care, the hands are often overlooked.  The hands can be even more susceptible to the effects of aging, which means they need extra care and attention.Today, there are many procedures available to minimize the appearance of an aging hand. Prevention is the best medicine, but your dermatologist is also an excellent source for advice and professional treatment options.

A chemical peel is a cosmetic procedure performed by your Baton Rouge dermatologist. This in-office treatment involves applying an acid solution to remove damaged outer layers of skin, erasing imperfections and improving skin tone and texture.  As the old, outer layer of skin is exfoliated and removed, it stimulates the growth of new, healthy skin cells that are smoother and less wrinkled than the old skin.

This time-tested, non-invasive procedure is quick—in most cases less than an hour—and yields fast results.  It can drastically improve the appearance of skin marked by wrinkles, scars and other signs of aging or sun damage.

Chemical peels can improve the appearance of:

• Fine lines and wrinkles
• Uneven skin pigmentation
• Acne scarring
• Sun-damaged skin
• Age spots
• Freckling

Chemical peels can be applied to many parts of the body including the face, neck, chest and hands, and are available in several different strengths.  The Dermatology Clinic can help you determine the type of chemical used depending on your skin type and desired results.  The best candidate for a chemical peel is a person with fair skin and light hair, although darker skin types can also achieve good results depending on their specific problem and treatment goals.

How many treatments are necessary depends on the severity of skin damage and the patient’s goals. With each treatment, scarring and other imperfections typically diminish more and more.

At The Dermatology Clinic, we can help you achieve your most radiant, youthful skin. Visit your Baton Rouge dermatologist to learn more about cosmetic dermatology, and find out if you are a candidate for chemical peels.

According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), nearly 28 million people tan in the United States annually. Of these, 2.3 million are teens.   Many people believe the UV rays of tanning beds are harmless, but this is far from true. Tanning beds emit UVA and usually UVB rays as well. Both UVA and UVB rays can cause long-term skin damage and premature aging (i.e. wrinkles, spots and sagging skin), and can contribute to skin cancer.

The AAD states that the risk of melanoma.—the deadliest form of skin cancer—is 75% higher among people who used tanning beds in their teens and 20s. Despite the known risks associated with indoor tanning these numbers continue to increase, as do the incidences of cancer.

Visit The Dermatology Clinic immediately if you detect any unusual changes in your skin’s appearance, such as:

• A change or an increase in the size or thickness of a mole or spot
• Change in color or texture of the mole
• Irregularity in the border of a mole

Protecting yourself from UV exposure is the best defense against premature aging and skin cancer. In addition to avoiding indoor tanning beds, you should also always wear sunscreen outdoors to protect your skin from the sun’s damaging rays.  Remember to self-examine your own skin as well as have your skin checked regularly by your [CIty] dermatologist. 

Whether you acquire your tan from the beach or a lamp, it’s not safe, and it’s not healthy. If you’re a regular tanner, it may be time to rethink your current stance on the standards of beauty.  There are safe alternatives to a bronzed glow without risking your health.

Whether you’re in middle school, high school or college, students everywhere can benefit from healthier skin. With a little extra care and attention, you can keep your skin blemish free all year long.

Keep your skin clean. 

This may sound obvious, but keeping your face clean is one of the most important things you can do to improve its health.  Get in the habit of washing your face twice a day with warm water and a mild soap to remove the dirt and debris that accumulate throughout the school day.  

Hands off.

Avoid touching your face with your hands throughout the day as your hands contain oils that cause breakouts.  Never pop pimples as this can irritate the skin, make acne worse, and increase the risk for scarring.      

Moisturize.

Moisturizers seal moisture into the skin to prevent skin from drying out.  Your Baton Rouge dermatologist can help you determine the best moisturizer for your skin type.

Avoid excessive sun exposure.

Protect your skin from the sun by wearing sunscreen and avoiding overexposure. Too much sun can damage the skin leading to future breakouts and even skin cancer.

Improve your physical well-being.

Your skin reflects what you eat, so remember to eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins and antioxidants.   Learn to manage stress as it can make your skin more sensitive and trigger acne breakouts and other skin problems.   Get plenty of rest every night; approximately 7-8 hours of restful sleep is essential for healthy skin.

By maintaining a consistent daily regimen that includes washing and a healthy diet, you can achieve clear, healthy skin throughout the entire school year. Whenever you have a question or concern about your skin, talk to your Baton Rouge dermatologist.  Dermatologists offer a range of treatments that help prevent and treat acne and other skin conditions.  The Dermatology Clinic can help you find the treatment method that's best for you.

Too much sun is especially dangerous for children.  One severe sunburn during childhood may double a child’s lifetime risk of melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer.  

It may take up to 24 hours after sun exposure to recognize the severity of your burn. For mild burns, follow these tips to relieve discomfort:

• Avoid the sun.  Spending additional time in the sun after you already have a sunburn will only worsen the negative effects and delay the healing process.
• Take a cool shower or bath to relieve any pain or discomfort. Apply a cool compress, like a damp cloth, to the skin to help reduce discomfort.
• Apply moisturizer or cream to soothe the skin. Aloe gel is a common household remedy for sunburns as it helps ease pain and inflammation.
• Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated as a sunburn draws fluid to the skin surface and away from the rest of the body.
• As directed by your doctor, take ant-inflammatory medications to help decrease the inflammation and reduce redness and pain.
• If blisters form, do not burst them as this will slow the healing process and increase the risk for infection.

In most cases a sunburn does not require medical attention.  Call a doctor immediately if there are signs of heat exhaustion, dehydration, fever, severe blistering or other serious reactions.

Fortunately, sunburns are completely preventable.  Remember to always wear sunscreen and limit overexposure to the sun by seeking shade and wearing appropriate clothes and accessories that cover the skin, such as hats and sunglasses.

Bottom line: prevention is better than cure, so remember to take extra precaution to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays.