Anyone who has suffered with chronic acne knows the profound desire to have smooth, clear skin. Although acne is a common, treatable skin condition, there are many different types of acne along with causes, treatment options, and prevention methods. Acne is a skin condition that occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells. It is characterized by the presence of pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads on the skin’s surface, most notably on the face but can present on other areas of the body. 

Types of acne include comedonal acne, inflammatory acne, nodular acne, and cystic acne. Comedonal acne can be blackheads or whiteheads caused by clogged hair follicles. Inflammatory acne is red, swollen pimples caused by inflammation or a bacterial infection. Nodular acne is large, painful bumps beneath the surface of the skin. Cystic acne is the most severe type of acne of deep, painful cysts brought on by an infection of the hair follicle. Causes of acne include excess oil production, clogged hair follicles, bacteria, inflammation, hormonal changes or fluctuations, certain medication, cosmetics, genetics, and diet. 

Consulting with a dermatologist at CLIENT NAME is essential for addressing persistent acne and preventing future breakouts. Top acne prevention strategies include maintaining a consistent skincare routine, avoiding over-washing and over-exfoliating, using acne-fighting ingredients found in topical treatments such as salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, and retinoids, oral prescription medications, keeping hands away from the face, and changing pillowcases regularly. In-office services such as chemical peels, microneedling, or corticosteroids may be recommended for severe acne. Lifestyle changes to effectively manage acne include a balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, and lean protein while eliminating dairy and sugar, exercise, stress management, sleep, and hydration. 
Understanding the causes and types of acne is important for determining the most effective treatment plan and prevention. To help identify potential triggers that are causing acne, visit THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology to develop a strategy for a clear, radiant complexion. Call 602-867-7546 or go to WEBSITE for the next available consultation.

Stopping skin cancer means spotting it in time. Skin cancer is the cancer you can see. Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer but is also the most treatable if detected early. The three main types of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Dermatologists recommend following the ABCDE guideline for skin cancer awareness, early detection, and prevention tips. With a visual assessment of the skin, the ABCDE rule is a helpful acronym that can identify potential skin cancer. The letters stand for asymmetrical, border, color, diameter, and evolving. A new or changing spot on the skin may be a sign of skin cancer. By checking for any of the ABCDE characteristics, you are taking the first step to skin cancer awareness.

Taking proactive steps to preventing skin cancer include staying out of the sun or stay in the shade as much as possible during peak hours of 10am to 4pm, covering the skin with UV protective clothing, wearing sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat, avoiding indoor tanning machines, and applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher and reapply every two hours. Knowing your risk factors is another key prevention tip. Although anyone can get skin cancer, the risk is elevated for those who are fair skinned with freckles, have natural blonde or red hair, and blue or green eyes. A person may have an increased risk for melanoma, one of the most dangerous types of skin cancer, if they have unusual moles, specifically moles that change in color, grown unevenly, or change in texture, more than 50 moles on the body, a family history of melanoma or unusual moles, fair skin the sunburns easily, and a history of blistering sunburns. If you meet any of the criteria for increased risk factors, THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology advises you to get a full-body, annual skin assessment. One in five Americans will develop some form of skin cancer. Before it affects your health, schedule your exam by calling 602-867-7546 or book online at WEBSITE.

Most skin cancer is curable if detected and treated in the early stage. Safeguard your health by evaluating your body with a personal skin exam once a month and meeting with your dermatologist once a year or more often should you notice changes to your skin. 

While genetics influence our physical attributes, flawless skin can be achieved regardless of your predisposition to skin health based on your DNA. Genetic contribution rates highly to your susceptibility to acne as well as skin sensitivity. But don’t worry. There are solutions and relatively simple changes that you can make to improve your skin. The impact of diet on skin health boils down to foods that nourish and foods to avoid. 

You have heard the expression “you are what you eat.” Eating skin-orientated, as well as general health focused, foods will deliver the right combination of nutrients and vitamins that your skin needs to look and feel your best. Power foods that deliver tangible results can easily be incorporated into your daily meal planning. Sensible nutrition that heals and hydrates the skin should include foods that are eaten in their natural state and recipes that can be made from scratch versus high-processed foods. Just a handful of blueberries, at around 44 calories, is a powerhouse snack of antioxidants that help fade away blemishes, sunspots and hyperpigmentation as well as reduces the risk of cancer, aids in age-related memory loss and lowers blood pressure. Phytochemicals in the humble apple, both in the flesh and the skin of the apple, offer antioxidant and anti-cancer benefits. Apples speed up skin cell production as well as protect against tissue damage. Starting your day off with these super fruits on the side with some eggs for protein or atop overnight oats, will provide you with collagen, vitamin C and vitamin E to freshen the skin before you even get going. Providing 300% of daily vitamin A and carotenoids that provide complexion clearing antioxidants as well as skin inflammation reducing action, eating just ⅔ cup of carrots daily will likely be your number one beauty secret. Tomatoes are another super food that the skin loves. Tomatoes provide vitamin C that aids in collagen assembly as well as immunity support. Avocados you have likely heard are the best “good” fat. Eating 2 to 3 avocados per week is enough to deliver visibly healthier and glowing skin. Olive oil is a simple way to add vitamin E to your diet that helps absorb nutrients provided by other foods. Combine carrots, tomato, avocado and olive oil with some greens for a side salad at lunch and you have half of your beauty regimen by way of your diet covered by lunch time. Adding plenty of protein from yogurt and lean meat such as chicken will have your skin looking younger in no time. 

A diet high in sugar, high-glycemic carbohydrates and high-processed and fried foods can lead to inflammation, breakouts and premature aging of the skin. Wrinkling of the skin is a natural part of the aging process but maintaining a healthy diet can slow the aging process. 

Protein peptides and fatty acids can strengthen the skin, boosting metabolism and antioxidant activity. On the other hand, too much sugar enables advanced glycation end products which are oxidant stressors that damage the skin’s collagen. High-fat and high-sugar diets can trigger acne and increase oil production. 

Antioxidants and anti-inflammatory foods will boost skin health in combination with hydration, hygiene and a customized skincare routine. For a tailored treatment for your skincare needs, schedule your appointment at THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology by 602-867-7546 or WEBSITE.

Clear skin is not a genetic gift bestowed on everyone. Some of us have lifelong skin struggles with persistent acne in our youth to uneven texture and fine lines as we get older. While any time spent online searching for the holy grail of skincare perfectors will show one advertisement after another, there is a tried-and-true serum that offers a host of benefits that not only work but it is also suitable for all different skin types. One of the most powerful classes of ingredients to reverse the signs of aging is retinoids, chemicals from vitamin A that should be a staple in your skin care regimen. 

Let’s explore the power of retinoids including benefits, usage and choosing the right product. Retinoid is an umbrella term for many derivatives of vitamin A. Scientifically proven to speed up skin cell production, retinoids exfoliate and unclog pores to reveal bright, glowy, healthy skin. Retinoids are broken down into 4 main categories: retinyl esters, retinol, retinaldehyde and retinoic acid, with this last option only available by prescription while the others can be accessed over the counter. In large part, retinoids come down to their concentration level; the higher the percentage listed on the bottle, the greater the power level. Knowing that, a steeper price tag does not necessarily convert to a higher strength or greater effectiveness. When applied topically to the skin, the body gradually converts retinol into retinoic acid, the active form of vitamin A. The more steps it takes to convert to retinoic acid, the weaker or gentler the formulation, which helps consumers decide how to choose the right product for varying sensitivity levels. 

For those who are new to retinoid use, THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology suggests an over-the-counter option to slowly test out your skin’s sensitivity. Redness and dryness are common side effects with first time retinoid use. If you find your skin tolerates the lowest level well, you can slowly integrate to a higher concentration level. If the beginning level OTC retinoids prove effective but you’d like to see greater improvement, it’s time to visit your dermatologist for stronger retinoids that may include retinoic acid, tazarotene, trifarotene and the ever-popular beauty blog favorite tretinoin. With any concentration level of retinoid use, be sure to layer products on your skin that will nourish and protect the skin barrier. 

Retinoids are best used as part of your nightly skincare routine versus daytime as it is advised to avoid sunlight when the retinoid is actively working on the skin. Retinoids should not be combined with acids such as glycolic acid or AHAs. When just starting out, use a retinoid every few days instead of every day until your skin can tolerate its effects. Various forms of retinol will neutralize free radicals in the middle layer of the skin. This will create a plumping effect as collagen and elastin are boosted. Retinoids can also reduce scarring, reduce inflammation and improve tone. Combine with moisturizers for maximum benefits and to protect against irritation. 

If you are looking for treatment of hyperpigmentation, reduction of fine lines and wrinkles, promotion of collagen production, brightening and smoothing of complexion, and improvement with acne, retinoids are your answer. To customize a skincare plan with a board-certified dermatologist at THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology that will improve your skin quality, call 602-867-7546 or visit WEBSITE for a consultation. 

Like many things in life, the road to glowing, radiant skin can be a journey rather than a sprint. Many skin-care goals are not achieved overnight but with simple changes or additions to your already-existing routine, you can set out on a mission for clear and healthy skin that can help you reach your goals sooner rather than later. Starting now puts you one step closer to a stunning complexion. 

Begin with changing your skin from the inside out. Stay hydrated with 8 glasses of water per day to prevent dehydration, boost collagen and flush out toxins. Load up on antioxidants to perk up the skin and protect against sun damage. Antioxidants help protect skin cells and may improve skin texture and appearance. Adding tomatoes, sweet potatoes, almonds, salmon, blueberries and red grapes to your diet while avoiding sugar, dairy and fried foods will get you closer to flawless skin. For more information on the role nutrition plays in your skin health and a more detailed list of superfoods and their benefits, visit WEBSITE. 

Now that we’ve covered how you can improve your skin internally, let’s dig into what is just as effective topically. Dermatologist approved tips for glowing skin for a radiant complexion must consist of wearing a broad-spectrum sunscreen to protect against UV damage. And not just your face, all areas of your skin that are exposed to the sun need UV protection. Sunscreen is the fountain of youth in a bottle. Apply it every single day. Add exfoliation once or twice a week to remove dead skin cells to unveil softer, smoother skin. Invest in a quality retinoid and increase its concentration as your skin will allow. Vitamin A derivatives are the holy grail of improving skin and are one of the best ingredients you can soak into your skin to give you the radiant complexion you desire. Vitamin C is another must have. From lightening dark spots to minimizing fine lines, Vitamin C, both orally in the foods you eat as well as a serum soaked into your skin, is one of the most underrated yet powerful ingredients you can use that provides an instant glow especially when used as part of your morning skincare routine. Vitamin C is also a protector against free radicals and chemical particles such as pollution, sun and even digital devices. Always cap off your regimen with a good moisturizer. 

Illuminate your skin with makeup. Your skincare routine and some makeup tips can work hand in hand to provide you with glowing skin and a radiant complexion. Look for products that contain hyaluronic acid that attracts and binds to water molecules and increases the water content of the skin, producing a natural glow. Use a primer as well as a setting spray, ideally with cucumber, to keep your complexion dreamy and dewy. 

Call 602-867-7546 to schedule a skin consultation with THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology to get more dermatologist approved tips for glowing skin and expert advice for a radiant complexion. 

Skin sensitivity can mean different things for different people. Roughly 70% of people suffer from some variation of sensitive skin which is why determining the exact cause can sometimes be challenging. Sensitive skin happens when nerve endings in the upper layers of the skin become irritated because the skin’s natural barrier is weakened. These can be environmental factors, usage of products, over exfoliation or certain skin conditions. Symptoms of sensitive skin such as burning, itching, stinging, pain, dryness and rough skin are often associated with common skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis and rosacea. 

Inflammation of the skin is often labeled under the term dermatitis which is the broad description given for skin irritations or rashes that develop due to genetics, an overactive immune system, infections, allergies, substances and more. Understanding common skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis and rosacea can be accomplished at your appointment with a board-certified dermatologist at THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology. Our skincare specialists will analyze the location, appearance and symptoms of your skin to properly diagnose which condition you are experiencing and then apply the best course of treatment. 

Because these 3 skin conditions can present in certain ways on the skin with rashes, bumps, redness and itching, there are a few key differences in helping you determine which type of problem is disrupting the smoothness of your skin. Eczema and psoriasis are a bit more similar to each other than rosacea; both eczema and psoriasis affect children as well as adults while rosacea is more common in 30- to 50-year-olds with fair skin. Eczema and psoriasis both cause crusty or scaly rashes, skin thickening, swelling and itching. Rosacea characteristics include pus-filled bumps, pimple-like rashes and severe blushing or flushing of the skin, particularly on the face.
Eczema tends to run in families and is associated with people who have allergies or asthma. Skin becomes cracked, discolored, blistered, crusty or scaly and can ooze clear fluid. Eczema is typically located on the folds of the skin, cheeks, hands, arms and legs. Psoriasis of the skin usually presents as thick, red patches also called plaques that are topped by silvery-white scales. They are commonly found on the elbows, knees and scalp. Rosacea is commonly mistaken for acne as tiny blood vessels, pimples and pustules can crop up on the red areas of the face. Rosacea follows a pattern on the skin initially in the central part of the face and then spreading to the cheeks, forehead, chin and nose. Treatments for all conditions vary but range from topical antibiotics to steroids to laser treatment. To know which course of action is right for you, book your appointment by calling 602-867-7546 or visit WEBSITE.

Beautiful skin is often attributed to healthy eating, a skincare regimen of layering the right products and staying hydrated. And while all those facts are true, the role of genetics in skin health is important in understanding your skin type and its unique needs. Genetics heavily influence the type of skin you have whether it is normal, oily, dry or combination. Genes are a basic unit of heredity that live within the DNA on long structures called chromosomes that communicate with your DNA to produce certain proteins. DNA then creates those proteins and additionally makes a copy called RNA that tells the proteins what to do. Because skin is made up of mostly proteins with different functions, genetics plays a major part in overall skin health. Knowing your skin type will help your inherited proteins resist environmental factors and skin cell death, more commonly known as signs of aging. 

Determining your skin type is the first step to achieving your most radiant complexion. While there are many skin conditions, including sensitivity, there are 4 main skin types: normal, oily, dry and combination skin. While everyone’s skin is different and takes on different guises based on age, stress, hormones and diet, your true skin type is determined by your genes. As the largest organ in the body, skin performs a variety of functions from regulating body temperature to protecting itself against germs, especially when it comes to the most visible and outermost layer of skin, also known as the skin barrier. Understanding your skin type and its unique needs will help the skin barrier to reach its full potential. 

After washing your face with a mild cleanser, pat it dry and leave it product and makeup free for at least an hour. With clean hands, feel your skin, notice the texture and feel. Normal skin will look the same as it did immediately after cleansing. Texture will be balanced with no shine, no dry patches and few visible pores. Oily skin will start to look shiny or greasy especially around the t-zone within this timeframe. You can also blot the skin to see if oil is left behind. Dry skin after cleansing without any moisturizer for an hour will begin to feel tight and itchy. Unlike oily skin with overactive sebaceous glands that produce too much sebum, dry skin produces less sebum, oils and lipids, which naturally moisturize and hydrate the skin. Combination skin is the most common skin type of all, leaving the skin with an unbalanced production of sebum. 

To achieve perfect skin and work with the pros and cons of the genetic skin you were given, make sure you hydrate the skin, eliminate inflammation, regulate pigmentation and block aging factors. For a comprehensive and effective skin care routine with the right treatments to remedy barriers to skin health, visit a board-certified dermatologist at THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology. Book your appointment by calling 602-867-7546 or choosing a day and time at WEBSITE. 

Many summer memories are attached to the fragrant smell of sunscreen. But taking care of your skin is a year-round precaution everyone should do and it should not be left only to the long days of fun in the sun. Skin needs constant protection from the damaging effects of ultraviolet radiation. This means using sunscreen every day even if it is cloudy outside. Applying sunscreen at least 15 to 30 minutes before going outside will ensure maximum benefits. Also consider using a lip balm that contains 30 SPF. 

Learning about the importance of SPF and tips for sun safety will aid in protecting your skin against UVA and UVB radiation. SPF stands for sun protection factor and is the measure of the amount of time the sunscreen will protect your skin from ultraviolet rays that cause premature aging and signs of sun damage including sunburn, wrinkles, liver spots, actinic keratosis and solar elastosis. Unprotected sun exposure to ultraviolet rays damages the DNA in skin cells producing mutations that could lead to skin cancer. The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends a water-resistant, broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher for any extended time outdoors. Regular daily use of SPF 15 or greater sunscreen can reduce the risk of developing squamous cell carcinoma by 40% and lower melanoma risk by 50%. In addition to shielding the skin from sunburns, preventing signs of aging and reducing the risk of skin cancer, wearing sunscreen daily also prevents skin discoloration and reduces inflammation especially for those with sensitive skin or existing skin conditions such as psoriasis or rosacea. 
Natural ways to protect yourself, in addition to wearing sunscreen, include wearing protective clothing and hats, protecting the eyes with UV blocking sunglasses or goggles, staying in the shade or using an umbrella, avoiding UV lights such as tanning beds and consuming omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants that promote healthy skin and prevent cellular damage. At THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology, we recommend annual skin checks to be sure your skin is free of sun damage and there have been no changes to skin to indicate a worsening condition or the appearance of skin cancer. The best way to protect your skin is to follow the advice listed above for recognizing the importance of SPF and tips for sun safety. For an appointment with one of our board-certified dermatologists, call 602-867-7546 or visit WEBSITE.

As if enduring acne was not challenging enough, the scars left behind can be more difficult to camouflage than the original culprit. Don’t let the lingering effects of acne ruin your self-confidence. Treatment options for a smooth and even complexion from acne scars may just be easier than ridding your skin of acne. Addressing your gut health, insulin resistance and poor detoxifications are the best ways to treat acne and to get clearer skin. Once you have eliminated the source of acne, you will be able to shift your attention to treating the scars acne leaves behind.   

Types of acne scars will determine which method of treatment you will need. Atrophic scars are caused by loss of collagen or scarred collagen and are associated with severe cystic acne. Atrophic scars are depressions in the skin often described as ice pick scars, boxcar scars or rolling scars. These types of acne scars should be treated topically with retinol, glycolic acid, vitamin C or salicylic acid. More advanced solutions include in-office procedures such as microneedling, chemical peels or laser therapy. Hypertrophic scars are caused by too much collagen produced during healing. Hypertrophic scars look like elevated hard scars, also called keloids. The best treatments are steroid injections, laser therapy, and if necessary, surgery for removal. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) is caused by too much melanin produced during healing and looks like brown, dark spots. Treating PIH scars with retinol, alpha hydroxy acids, vitamin C, Kojic acid, Tranexamic acid, hydroquinone and chemical peels are the best options for an even complexion. Post-inflammatory erythema (PIE) is caused by inflammation during healing and shows up as red spots. Treatment includes retinol, alpha hydroxy acids, niacinamide, vitamin C, caffeine, green tea and laser procedures.

Skin resurfacing, serums, dermal injections and lasers are great solutions to acne scars and are effective treatments for a smooth and even complexion. Along with daily wear SPF and a skin care regimen to hydrate and moisturize your skin, clearing up acne scars is possible. When it comes to the health of the skin, broad questions lead to broad answers. To determine the best course of treatment for your individual, unique needs, our board-certified dermatologists at THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology will customize a care plan to give you the glass-like, acne free skin of your dreams. Book your appointment by calling 602-867-7546 or schedule online at WEBSITE. 

The art of exfoliation transforms dull and dead skin to unveil radiant and glowing skin. Exfoliation consists of 2 different methods and choosing the right exfoliant for your skin. Exfoliation is classified by the mechanisms of action: either chemical or physical exfoliation. While the skincare goal is the same, chemical exfoliation involves the use of specific enzymes or acids (such as alpha hydroxy acids & beta hydroxy acids) to dissolve the bonds between dead skin cells and physical exfoliation involves the use of granular substances and sometimes tools to slough off dead skin cells.

You can perform both chemical and physical exfoliation on the skin at home but depending on your needs you may want to leave deep exfoliation, especially of the chemical variety, to a trusted dermatologist at THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology. At home chemical exfoliants should be patch tested on the skin before full use and contain gentle, low concentrations of acid to be sure it is suitable for your skin. Using too high concentrations can cause sensitivity or irritation to the skin. Chemical exfoliators that come in the form of pads or masks are a good place to start if you have never used such products before. Chemical exfoliators contain the choice of 2 chemicals: AHAs, alpha hydroxy acids, or BHAs, beta hydroxy acids. AHAs include glycolic acid (for hyperpigmentation), lactic acid (for sensitive skin, dryness, and fine lines), and mandelic acid (for acne-prone skin). The most common ingredient in BHA is salicylic acid, best used for oily or acne-prone skin or complexions with dark spots and discolorations. For at home physical exfoliation, select mild exfoliants with fine granules and use them on the skin in gentle circular motions. Some people like to use a soft-bristle brush or silicone device for a deeper cleanse.

After clearing away dead and dry skin with exfoliation, enjoy the refreshing benefits that include unclogging pores, preventing acne, evening skin tone, increasing collagen production, boosting circulation & lymph drainage and prepping the skin so that moisturizers, serums and other skincare products can deeper penetrate the skin to keep it happy and healthy. Be cautious not to over-exfoliate and limit this step in your skincare routine to 1-3 times per week as necessary. Skin sensitivity, skin type and skin issues you are looking to correct will ultimately determine which type of exfoliation is best for you. Many people find that a combination of both chemical and physical exfoliation provides a balanced approach to achieving the best skin possible.

To know which exfoliants will give you your desired results, request a skin assessment at THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology by calling 602-867-7546. For a list of services for youthful, beautiful skin visit WEBSITE. Exfoliation is a pain free, often relaxing, form of self-care that is an overlooked step in a successful skin care regimen. THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology can customize a skin care system that will rejuvenate the skin by unlocking the secret combination you have been looking for to give you brighter, clearer and healthier skin.