How Often Can You Do RF Skin Tightening?

Radiofrequency facials promise to smooth, tighten and firm the skin without any downtime. Usually when one thinks about getting a facial, the vision comes to mind of relaxing lotions and oils being spread on the skin, not the words radiofrequency, sparking to mind the use of electrical currents. Similar to laser and LED treatments, radiofrequency uses energy to stimulate both collagen and elastin production but with heat energy rather than pulses of light. 

Radiofrequency treatment, referred to as RF skin tightening, has become increasingly popular as a gentle way to tighten up sagging skin. RF energy heats the dermis without damaging the epidermis, top layer of skin. Despite its name, radiofrequency currents flow through the cell and tissues without shocking the body. This is because nerves maintain electrical charges of their own. RF currents travel too rapidly to induce pain at the source. During treatment, RF stimulates the structures under the skin and with the heat it produces causing targeted but controlled damage. This causes collagen in the body to shrink and contract allowing the skin to lift and tighten. As the body begins to heal itself, fibroblast cells in the deepest layer of the skin begin to produce new collagen and elastin fibers, a process known as dermal remodeling. This new production increases the skin’s elasticity, erases fine lines and wrinkles, tightens and firms tissues, and improves the overall texture and volume of the skin. RF treatment also increases cell metabolism and works to detoxify tissues. The heat generated by radiofrequency helps blood vessels to widen both increasing blood flow and increasing the oxygen and nutrient flow to the cells creating overall healthier skin.

Like most facial treatments, RF skin tightening is not a one and done solution. It will take multiple treatments, usually between 6 and 12, for full effectiveness. The number of radiofrequency treatments will vary person to person and depend upon each patient’s skin laxity. Suggestions from doctors vary as well from as little to 1 week in between treatments to 1 treatment per month. Visiting with your dermatologist for your specific goals and care is advised. 

RF skin tightening can be combined with other facial rejuvenation treatments such as microneedling or dermaplaning. To find out which option is the right fit for you, schedule your consultation with THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology by calling 602-867-7546 or visit us online at WEBSITE for more information. 

Posted: August 4, 2022 By:

Does Skin Cancer Spread Quickly?

Skin cancer unfortunately holds the distinction as the world’s most common cancer. More people are diagnosed with skin cancer in the United States each year than all other cancers combined. At least 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer by the age of 70 with more than 9,500 people diagnosed with skin cancer every day. Development of skin cancer can be attributed to the following risks: indoor tanning, sunburns, skin type, unprotected exposure to UVA and UVB rays, genetics, atypical moles, organ transplant and those with naturally red hair. 

Skin cancer is the out-of-control growth of abnormal cells in the epidermis, the outermost layer of skin. These mutations that cause skin cell growth form a mass of cancer cells. If these mutations lead the skin cells to multiply rapidly, does skin cancer spread quickly? Yes and no. The rate of spreading is dependent upon the type of skin cancer. Skin cancer presents as 3 major types: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma.

Basal cell carcinoma is the most common form of skin cancer but it also grows slowly, is the most curable and causes minimal damage when diagnosed and treated early. Growth rates vary, with some basal cell carcinomas growing as much as 1 centimeter in a year. Although basal cell carcinoma can develop into other types of cancer, such as squamous cell carcinoma, it is very rare that it spreads (metastasizes) to nearby lymph nodes or other areas of the body. Squamous cell carcinoma develops in the squamous cells found in the middle and outer layers of the skin. Squamous cell carcinoma is the second most common type of skin cancer, and unlike basal cell carcinoma, it can spread to lymph nodes and even to internal organs. When it does spread, it spreads slowly. Left untreated, it can destroy nearby healthy tissue but is not typically life-threatening. While less common than basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, melanoma is a serious and dangerous form of skin cancer that can spread quickly to other organs if not treated in the early stage. The 4 main types of melanomas are superficial spreading melanoma, lentigo melanoma, acral lentiginous melanoma and nodular melanoma. Doctors use what is called a staging process for diagnosing, assessing and treating melanomas. These are classified by the extent of the original tumor in its thickness and ulceration meaning the breakdown of skin on top of the melanoma, whether it has spread to nearby lymph nodes, and if has spread or metastasized to distant lymph nodes, skin areas or organs. Because the levels of classification can be complex, it is necessary to visit a dermatologist with any changes to the skin and to schedule routine skin screenings. 

Prevention of skin cancer begins with ways to decrease risk that include daily use of a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF, wearing sun protective clothing, staying out of the sun whenever possible, protective window films in cars and homes, healthy diets, monthly self-exams and annual skin exams with a dermatologist. 

To book your skin examination, call THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology at 602-867-7546 or visit online at WEBSITE

Posted: July 25, 2022 By:

What Causes a Person to Have a lot of Moles?

Moles are very common, especially in those with fair skin, with over 3 million cases accounted for in the United States annually. Moles are the result of overgrown skin cells known as melanocytes appearing as small, dark brown spots caused by the pigment in those cells. Moles, also called birthmarks or beauty marks, are quite common and considered normal. In fact, on average, most people have between 10 to 40 moles on their skin developing anywhere on the body including the scalp, armpits, and even between the fingers and toes. Moles are generally harmless and are not a cause for concern unless there are changes in size, shape, color or texture of the mole in which case it would be necessary to visit with a dermatologist to determine whether the mole has become cancerous. 

If moles are common, what causes a person to have a lot of moles? Some moles, known as congenital nevi, are present at birth or develop during infancy. These moles are almost always non-cancerous. Most moles appear in early childhood and during the first 25 years of a person’s life. Heredity is thought to be the largest contributor to the development of moles. Similar numbers of moles seem to develop on familial generations, so it is possible  family history causes a person to have a lot of moles, or the specific number of moles, but studies are still inconclusive. Moles often occur on parts of the body exposed to the sun or ultraviolet radiation, increasing the number of moles on a person’s skin. It is also common for new moles to appear as hormone level change, for example during adolescence and pregnancy. Certain medications that suppress the immune system can also trigger a response from the body in the form of moles on the skin.

Having a lot of moles or noticing an increase of moles on your skin can be indicative of particularly active skin cells. The greater number of moles would increase the likelihood of skin cancer, so it is encouraged to meet with your dermatologist for a skin screening to determine if your moles are of normal size, shape, color and texture. 

Do not let your skin get you stressed. While moles are normal, it is always best to get an expert diagnosis from a dermatologist who can examine your skin and prescribe any necessary course of treatment. At THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology, we recommend a professional skin examination once a year. Contact our office today to schedule your exam by calling 602-867-7546 or visiting online at WEBSITE

Posted: July 18, 2022 By:

What Does Hormonal Acne Look Like?

Acne is frustrating and embarrassing at any age. While many people experience acne in their teen years, hormonal acne typically appears in adulthood affecting nearly 80% of the population with about 50% of women in their 20s and 25% of women in their 40s noticing the symptoms and causes of hormonal acne. 

Generally, acne is caused by clogged pores and an improper diet. Clogged pores are the result of excess sebum, dead skin cells and bacteria. Hormonal acne, on the other hand, can be caused by stress, lack of sleep, oil-clogging products for hair or skin care and a poor diet that either lacks nutrition or foods that cause inflammation to the skin. Other causes of hormonal acne include a family history of acne, testosterone treatments, side effects of steroid medication use, pre-existing medical conditions such as polycystic ovarian syndrome, or changing hormone levels in women, specifically round the time of her period, irregular periods, pregnancy, menopause, or when discontinuing the use of oral contraceptives.

What does hormonal acne look like? Hormonal acne presents on the lower half of the face, especially at the chin and jaw line, as blackheads, whiteheads, papules (raised skin tissue), pustules (bumps on the skin that are filled with pus) and cysts (nodules under the skin that contain fluid). Hormonal acne is most often cystic and inflammatory. It looks like painful red papules, pustules and deep cysts that can come about near menstruation but unfortunately can last all month long. 

Because acne is brought on by the fluctuation of hormones, the best course of treatment is meeting with your doctor to take an in-depth hormone panel blood test to be sure hormones are the root cause of your acne. Topical treatments aimed at clearing pores with benzoyl peroxide and exfoliating with salicylic acid have proven successful at destroying bacteria that creates acne and reducing inflammation in the skin. Internally, a change in diet may help to clear up hormonal acne. Many people are not aware that dairy consumption may have something to do with the increase in acne as dairy has been shown to stimulate testosterone production that can impact hormonal balance. Refined carbohydrates and high sugar foods can cause an insulin spike that increases inflammation and oil production. In addition to eliminating certain foods, adding zinc to your diet either through foods or supplements can provide benefits that naturally counteract acne. 

If you are experiencing hormonal acne, a dermatologist at THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology will provide you with a personalized skin assessment and treatment options. From topical treatments to prescription options to light therapy and chemical peels, THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology will help you find the solution that is right for you. For a consultation, call our office at 602-867-7546 or visit online at WEBSITE

Posted: July 11, 2022 By:

What Does Psoriasis Look Like When It Starts?

Changes in the skin, especially when it begins as something seemingly minor such as small red bumps, usually aren’t cause for concern. With changes in weather or product usage, it is not uncommon to develop minor irritations on the skin. The bad news is that many skin conditions look alike. Psoriasis presents similarly to eczema and other inflammatory skin conditions. The good news is that dermatologists have a vast array of knowledge in all areas of the skin so an appointment at THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology will provide you with the best answers to help create a treatment plan for whatever skin ailment you are experiencing. 

Psoriasis is a type of auto-immune condition that causes inflammation in the body creating scaly plaques and rashes on the skin that tend to be extremely itchy and can sometimes even feel painful with burning or stinging sensations. Normal skin cells grow and subsequently shed within a month. In an overactive immune system, skin cells grow and shed in only 3 or 4 days. Psoriasis often develops between the ages of 15 and 25. It is most common on the knees, elbows, legs, lower back, hands, feet and scalp but can develop anywhere on the body. What does psoriasis look like when it starts? The early symptoms of psoriasis will depend upon the type of psoriasis you have. There are 7 main types of psoriasis, but 80-90% of patients are affected by plaque psoriasis which first appears as thick, raised patches of skin. These “plaques” can be red, purple or silver in color and vary in size. People with lighter skin types will see red or silver patches of skin whereas people with darker skin types will notice purple, grayish or dark brown patches of skin. Other psoriasis types include guttate (small red or purple spots on the skin), inverse (smooth red to purple rashes), pustular (painful, pus-filled bumps usually on the hands and feet), erythrodermic (rare and life-threatening that causes significant shedding of layers of skin in large pieces), nail psoriasis (usually develops as a secondary condition to another form of psoriasis), and psoriatic arthritis (affects the joints too). 

Currently there is no cure for psoriasis but there are effective ways to treat and manage the symptoms. Some options include corticosteroids, retinoids, vitamin D analogues, salicylic acid, calcineurin inhibitors, immunosuppressants and light therapy. Because psoriasis is not the only skin condition that causes dry, flaking skin with itchy rashes, you may wish to consult a dermatologist to be sure if the symptoms you are experiencing are related to psoriasis or other conditions that look similar such as eczema, keratosis pilaris, hives, acne, rosacea, parapsoriasis, ringworm, lupus or skin cancer. 

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms common with psoriasis, find relief in the proper diagnosis and treatment solutions offered by THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology. Schedule your consultation conveniently online at WEBSITE or call with any questions you may have at 602-867-7546. 

Posted: July 4, 2022 By:

Do Dermatologists Do Surgery?

Dermatologists are medical doctors who specialize in diagnosing and treating conditions and diseases of the skin, hair and nails. Skin is the largest organ in the body, dermatologists have a broad array of knowledge and skill sets relating to the skin as well as any signs and symptoms that would indicate something is abnormal on or in the skin. To develop this expertise, dermatologists are required to complete 4 years of college, 4 years of medical school, 3 years of residency, 1 to 2 years of a fellowship, and licensing and certification. Dermatologists treat everything from acne to cancer. Although many dermatologists can do surgery, it is possible for patients to be referred to a specialist dependent upon the results of lab tests or other diagnoses. 

Common surgeries that dermatologists do include electrosurgery, cryosurgery, laser surgery, excision surgery, Mohs surgery, mole removal and vein treatment. Dermatologic surgery is essential for the removal of skin cancers and suspected skin cancers. These include melanoma, squamous cell carcinoma, basal cell carcinoma and rare skin tumors. Surgery by a dermatologist may also include the removal of common, yet benign growths such as moles or seborrheic keratoses. Cosmetic surgical procedures that may be performed by a dermatologist include dermabrasion, eyelid surgery, scar treatment, hair replacement, liposuction and suction curettage. In most cases, dermatologic surgery accounts for a simple ellipse excision of a skin tumor and is an outpatient procedure with a local anesthetic that is completed in the doctor’s office. 

Although not classified as surgery, biopsies are quite commonly performed by dermatologists to diagnose or rule out certain conditions or cancers. Biopsies include shave biopsies that remove small sections of the top layer of skin, punch biopsies that remove small, circular sections of skin including deep layers, and excision biopsies that remove either deep layers of skin or an entire area of skin that appears unhealthy. 

Dermatologists are a great resource for all questions related to the skin, hair and nails. Dermatologists can provide diagnosis and treatment for just about any medical or cosmetic concern related to the skin. THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology highly recommends annual skin screenings to ensure the health of your skin. Give our office a call today to set up your appointment by calling 602-867-7546 or visiting online at WEBSITE

Posted: June 25, 2022 By:

What Does Dermalinfusion do?

Skin is the largest organ of the body. Because the skin is porous, common daily dermal exposures ranging from toxins in makeup and skin care to chemicals in cleaning products to environmental factors, such as dirt and dryness, impact the condition and health of the skin. Coupled with natural aging, the skin loses hydration, collagen and elastin over time. At THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology we are dedicated to providing our patients with the most effective and advanced aesthetic services to enhance and rejuvenate your natural beauty.

Hydrating and exfoliating facial treatments work to combat imperfections and damage to the skin. If you are looking for improvement to fine lines, wrinkles and dull skin, you may be a candidate for Dermalinfusion offered by THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology.  

Dermalinfusion is a non-invasive, 3-in-1 facial treatment originally patented by SilkPeel, now known as Diamond Glow, that simultaneously exfoliates, extracts and infuses skin with customized serums to stimulate and transform the skin. Dermalinfusion has been described as the next level of microdermabrasion; the key difference being the methodology of using a medical grade wand with diamond-shaped tips to abrade the top layer of skin while extracting dirt, debris and other impurities. Next, the skin is infused with serums that provide a hydrating, natural glow while improving texture and tone. Common serum ingredients include decapeptide-12, salicylic acid, licorice root extract, oregano oil, grape seed extract, Vitamin C and Vitamin E. Studies have shown that with a single treatment, Dermalinfusion volumizes the skin by 70% and lasts up to 3 days. While 1 treatment will provide instant, noticeable results, many patients can anticipate needing multiple treatments to fade fine lines, wrinkles, sun damage, stretch marks and scarring. Patients experiencing acne, eczema, psoriasis and rosacea can also benefit from Dermalinfusion. Benefits of Dermalinfusion include smoothing of the skin, evening of skin tone, brightening complexion, unclogging pores and reducing dark spots and wrinkles. 

If you are interested in a fully customizable facial treatment that can aid in a variety of concerns, Dermalinfusion is a gentle rejuvenation option that will leave you with soft, fresh, dewy skin. No matter what your skin type, THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology has hydrating facial options just for you. Call 602-867-7546 or book your appointment online WEBSITE today!

Posted: June 18, 2022 By:

Do Dermatologists Recommend Microneedling?

Many dermatologists offer natural and holistic treatment options focusing on organic skin care for hard-to-treat skin conditions such as acne, rosacea, eczema, psoriasis and inflammation. As your skin reflects your internal health, dermatologists want their patients to be as healthy in both how they look and feel. For patients looking to treat common skin flaws without invasive treatments or medications, micro-needling provides a naturopathic solution and improvement to the appearance of the skin. 

Micro-needling, also known as collagen induction therapy, is a cosmetic procedure that involves repeatedly puncturing the skin with tiny, sterile needles to create wounds in the skin for your body to heal. The goal is for the body to stimulate natural collagen and elastin to rejuvenate the skin. Micro-needling benefits include reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, acne scar or other flattened scar treatment, sun damage and sunspot removal or reduction, the shrinking of pores, lightening of stretch marks, reducing the inflammation and irritation of rosacea, clearing up acne, and boosting the effectiveness of topical products to make them more effective. 

If you are interested in micro-needling, seek a board-certified dermatologist. Dermatologists recommend micro-needling but advise that patients use caution about trying the procedure out for themselves with home remedies or over the counter devices due to safety and efficacy reasons. Dermatologists are trained in all areas of the skin as well as the pros and cons of what cosmetic treatments are best suited for your unique skin type and conditions you wish to treat. Micro-needling is best performed by a dermatologist with expertise in the procedure. Your doctor will also prescribe a serum or topical solution to work with your skin after the procedure to ensure your skin is hydrated while the body heals to provide you with a radiant, fresh glow. 

At THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology, providing access to the best dermatologic care is our top priority. To learn more about the benefits of micro-needling and if your dermatologist recommends micro-needling for you; call today at 602-867-7546 or schedule your consultation online at WEBSITE.

Posted: June 11, 2022 By:

What Does Dermalinfusion do?

Skin is the largest organ of the body. Because the skin is porous, common daily dermal exposures ranging from toxins in makeup and skin care to chemicals in cleaning products to environmental factors, such as dirt and dryness, impact the condition and health of the skin. Coupled with natural aging, the skin loses hydration, collagen and elastin over time. At THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology, we are dedicated to providing our patients with the most effective and advanced aesthetic services to enhance and rejuvenate your natural beauty.

Hydrating and exfoliating facial treatments work to combat imperfections and damage to the skin. If you are looking for improvement to fine lines, wrinkles and dull skin, you may be a candidate for Dermalinfusion offered by THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology.  

Dermalinfusion is a non-invasive, 3-in-1 facial treatment originally patented by SilkPeel, now known as Diamond Glow, that simultaneously exfoliates, extracts and infuses skin with customized serums to stimulate and transform the skin. Dermalinfusion has been described as the next level of microdermabrasion; the key difference being the methodology of using a medical grade wand with diamond-shaped tips to abrade the top layer of skin while extracting dirt, debris and other impurities. Next, the skin is infused with serums that provide a hydrating, natural glow while improving texture and tone. Common serum ingredients include decapeptide-12, salicylic acid, licorice root extract, oregano oil, grape seed extract, Vitamin C and Vitamin E. Studies have shown that with a single treatment, Dermalinfusion volumizes the skin by 70% and lasts up to 3 days. While 1 treatment will provide instant, noticeable results, many patients can anticipate needing multiple treatments to fade fine lines, wrinkles, sun damage, stretch marks and scarring. Patients experiencing acne, eczema, psoriasis and rosacea can also benefit from Dermalinfusion. Benefits of Dermalinfusion include smoothing of the skin, evening of skin tone, brightening complexion, unclogging pores and reducing dark spots and wrinkles. 

If you are interested in a fully customizable facial treatment that can aid in a variety of concerns, Dermalinfusion is a gentle rejuvenation option that will leave you with soft, fresh, dewy skin. No matter what your skin type, THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology has hydrating facial options just for you. Call 602-867-7546 or book your appointment online WEBSITE today!

Posted: June 4, 2022 By:

Skin Resurfacing for Acne Scars

Acne on its own can be frustrating and embarrassing but to have scarring left behind is a whole different story. Once active acne is eliminated and controlled, the real healing can begin for acne scars. Treatment options include alpha hydroxy acids, lactic acid, retinoids, salicylic acid, dermabrasion, chemical peels, fillers, micro needling and corticosteroid injections. For mild to moderate acne scars, many of these options will go a long way to renewing and clearing the skin. For deeper or more indented scars, known as atrophic scarring, dermatologists use a variety of light and laser therapy options since scars that form below the upper layer of skin are harder to treat. Severe acne results in scarring that prevents the skin from being able to regenerate tissue properly causing uneven texture in the skin. For these skin types, laser skin resurfacing for acne scars is the ideal solution. 

Skin resurfacing refers to laser technology that uses short, concentrated, pulsated beams of light to target irregular or damaged skin. The goal is to precisely remove skin layer by layer as necessary to stimulate collagen growth to provide smoother and firmer skin. During treatment the laser beam removes the epidermis (top layer of skin) while simultaneously heating the dermis, the underlying skin. Common types of laser skin resurfacing for acne scars include erbium YAG lasers, carbon dioxide (CO2) lasers, radio-frequency micro-needling with blue-light technology and pulsed-dye lasers. Fractional CO2 lasers and pulse-dye lasers are recommended most often for deep acne scars as well as for patients who also want to clear up broken blood vessels or capillaries while reducing redness on the face. 

The short-term discomfort of skin resurfacing for acne scars has been described as a small rubber band snapping against the skin with a feeling of a mild sunburn for a few days after the procedure. For many people, the desire to have a clear complexion free of any lingering signs of acne is worth the investment. 

If you would like to learn more about skin resurfacing for acne scars and what laser treatment is right for you, THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology offers consultations with any one of our board-certified dermatologists to help choose the treatment that will get you closer to loving your skin. Scheduling is easy by calling 602-867-7546 or submitting your appointment request online here at WEBSITE

Posted: May 25, 2022 By: