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. 

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. 

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. 

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!

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.

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!

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. 

Chemical peels reveal smoother, younger and healthier skin literally just below the surface. Chemical peels do exactly what their name implies: treating the skin with a chemical solution that peels back layers of aged, damaged skin to address specific skin concerns. 

What does a chemical do to your face? First a chemical peel will remove the topmost layer of skin along with dead, rough skin cells. The body will begin to heal itself by signaling skin cells to multiply and move to the surface of the skin. The body will also boost collagen needed to plump and smooth the skin improving the skin’s elasticity. Chemical peels improve the skin’s tone and texture and are easily customizable depending upon the issues you are looking to correct in your skin.

Chemical peels are used to tone skin and even out pigmentation, improve fine lines and wrinkles, fade the appearance of acne scars, increase collagen and elastin, control melasma, reverse sun damage, and provide a smoother, more youthful complexion. Chemical peels are a skin resurfacing treatment made from acidic solutions causing the skin to shed, peeling away imperfections of the skin. Chemical peels promote cell turnover revealing new, fresh skin that looks and feels younger. 

There are 3 types of chemical peels each with their own unique strengths and ideal skin types: light (also called superficial), medium and deep. Deep chemical peels fully penetrate the middle layer of skin and are considered the most aggressive of the treatment options. Because of the intensity of a deep peel, patients only require 1 treatment. Not only do deep chemical peels target facial wrinkles and treat sun damaged skin, but they can remove pre-cancerous growths too. 

Chemical peels have a moderate recovery time of 1 to 14 days with redness and swelling common side effects. Skin will peel for an average of 10 days after treatment. Moisturizing skin, staying out of the sun and allowing your skin to rest are the quickest ways to recover. In a short amount of time, the minimal discomfort will reveal softer, smoother skin making you look younger and more rejuvenated. 

Are you ready to experience the remarkable skin care results from a chemical peel treatment? The board-certified dermatologists at THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology are here to help you determine which type of chemical peel is right for you and your skin care goals. Call 602-867-7546 or schedule your consultation online at WEBSITE. Appointments book quickly so do not delay. Before you know it, we’ll help you love the skin you are in!

It is a gift and a privilege to grow older but most of us don’t actually want to look older while doing so. Thankfully, the ever-advancing world of dermatology offers a wide variety of aging skin treatments to turn back the hands of time. Well, on the effects of our skin anyway. 

The American Society for Dermatologic Surgery lists the following as the top aging skin treatments to promote healthier, more youthful skin:

IPL treatments (laser and intense light treatments used to remove discoloration and tighten sagging skin)

Chemical Peels (used to remove outer damaged skin)

Ablative Laser Treatments (fractional & CO₂ lasers used to remove outer layers of skin to smooth lines and wrinkles)

Non-Ablative Treatments (microdermabrasion & micro-needling using minimally invasive sanding methods to treat light scars and skin discolorations)

Dermabrasion or Dermaplaning (surgical scraping to soften skin’s surface and eliminate irregularities)

Dermal Fillers (injectables to contour & plump the skin)

Botox (nerve blockers that relax wrinkles and reduce fine lines)

Facelift (surgical procedure to remove excess fat and skin in face and neck)

Laser resurfacing (removal of skin layers that cause cells to heal naturally, ideal for scarring)

Liposuction (fat removal)

Maintaining healthy skin and protecting it as best you can from environmental factors is the key to slowing the signs of aging. Limiting sun exposure, avoiding tanning beds or extended UV exposure, wearing sunscreen and routine skin cancer screenings will aid in reducing the look of wrinkles, fine lines, creases, and sunspots, all telltale signs of aging. Topical treatments also include retinoids, Vitamin C and hyaluronic acid. 

Common aging skin treatments address the concerns of cellulite, wrinkles, loss of elasticity, droopy eyes and hyperpigmentation or sunspots.  The most common aging skin treatments are facials, injectable fillers, laser treatment and topical products. All of these are dependent on the unique needs of the patient. Talk with your dermatologist at THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology to learn more about how any of the treatment options listed above can take years off your skin. No one has to know your real age but you. Every second you are alive, you are aging. Do not delay looking and feeling your best with aging skin treatments available to you. To schedule a consultation, call us at 602-867-7546 or fill out a request form here WEBSITE. 

Moles are very common, especially in people who have fair skin. Moles are flesh to brown colored nodules that are an overgrowth of skin cells known as melanocytes. Although moles are like tumors in that they are both an overgrowth of cells, moles are almost always benign—non-cancerous. If the risk of being cancerous is not a main factor, when should a mole be removed?

One of the top reasons to visit a dermatologist is for a skin cancer screening, an important part of skin cancer prevention. Dermatologists will look for certain criteria when determining why or when a mole should be removed. A mole is known medically as nevus or nevi. Moles are classified into 4 types: congenital moles, dysplastic nevi, acquired nevi and spitz nevi. Congenital moles are present at birth or develop during infancy and are almost always benign. Dysplastic nevi are considered abnormal moles due to being large, having uneven edges or an uneven surface. These moles can be discolored and continue to grow over time. Dysplastic nevi are the most common type of moles that can develop into melanoma. Acquired nevi are moles that appear after you are born, often from sun exposure or a change in hormone levels common in adolescence or pregnancy. These account for most moles on the skin and are usually harmless. Lastly, spitz nevi can be hard to distinguish from melanoma unless your dermatologist performs a biopsy. These moles are often raised, pink and dome shaped. 

During an individual’s lifetime, moles may change in appearance; hair may grow out of them, and they can change in size and shape, darken, fade or disappear. Atypical or abnormal moles will be a warning sign to your dermatologist and may be cause for the mole to be removed. Your doctor will follow what is known as ABCDE protocol to recommend the removal of a mole:

Asymmetry: Moles are usually symmetrical all around. If a mole is asymmetrical, it may be a sign of skin cancer. 

Border: Regular moles are clearly defined on the skin. Moles with blurred, jagged or otherwise difficult to define borders may be cause for concern. A scalloped shaped mole may indicate irregular cell growth that will likely require a biopsy. 

Color: Most will be consistent with one color, usually brown, tan or even black; if the color of the mole is irregular such as red, white or blue, your dermatologist could determine these are warning signs of skin cancer.

Diameter: Normal moles are no bigger than the size of a pencil eraser. If a mole is larger, your dermatologist may have it removed to err on the side of safety. 

Evolving: Regular moles should not change in shape or size or consistency of color; any of these changes is a cause for seeing a dermatologist for evaluation. Evolving moles are an early sign of skin cancer. 

Most moles are harmless, only in the case of precancerous or cancerous growth should moles be removed either in part as a biopsy or completely. Although not medically necessary, some patients have moles removed for cosmetic reasons because they find them unsightly or a nuisance. 

To have your moles evaluated during a skin cancer screening, contact THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology by either 602-867-7546 or WEBSITE to book your appointment.