While there are many over- the- counter topical ointments and creams available, toenail fungus rarely responds without prescription strength solutions. Dermatologists can treat toenail fungus with prescriptions to begin a successful treatment regimen. However, if you would like to try home remedy solutions first, many people have found success with the following: VapoRub, snakeroot extract, tea tree oil, oregano oil, olive leaf extract, ozonated oils, vinegar, Listerine, garlic, and adjustments to diet including an increase to protein and iron intake. 

Toenail fungus, medically known as onychomycosis or tinea unguium, is very common. Signs and symptoms include scaling or buildup of the skin below the nail, easily broken corners or tips of the toenail, flakiness or pitting in the nail’s surface, yellow spots on the bottom of the nails, distorted toenail growth, toenails that lift away from the cuticle, thickened nails, loss of toenails, foul smelling odor and white, yellow, or darkened streaks on the surface of the nail.

Fungal nail infections can spread to other nails and the skin causing dermatological issues or ringworm. Fungi are common in damp places. Toenail fungus symptoms can be prevented by a few simple practices including keeping your feet dry. After bathing or swimming, be sure to wash thoroughly with soap and completely dry your feet. Change socks or hosiery daily and change out shoes regularly. Wear shoes that fit properly. Wear synthetic fiber socks that provide wicking to reduce moisture. When trimming your toenails be sure to clean the trimmer before use and cut straight along the top of the nail without rounding the edges. Common cuts or tears to the nail occur from accidental or aggressive trimming. Public communal areas such as hotel rooms or showers, locker rooms, pools, and any general area you may be barefoot presents an opportunity for fungus to grow. Avoid going barefoot and opt for flip flops instead. 

Beyond cosmetic concerns, a severe case of nail fungus can be painful and may cause permanent damage to the nails. Widespread infection of toenail fungal infection is concerning for those with diabetes or chronic conditions that weaken the immune system. If toenail fungus spreads to the skin causing it to crack, bacteria can enter in causing cellulitis, a condition that causes red, swollen, and tender skin. The spreading of fungus from the nails can also cause athlete’s foot around the surrounding skin. 

Tired of foot pain or the unsightly look of those discolored toenails? To find relief from toenail fungus symptoms and more, schedule your appointment today. THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology is dedicated to your care and comfort. Call 602-867-7546 or WEBSITE to book now. 

If you search online long enough, you will find a variety of creams, ointments, exercises, and treatments for cellulite. You will also find many articles that end with the fact that all women have cellulite, and you will just have to embrace the inevitable. But is that true? Is there no fix for cellulite, or at least mild improvement? What really works?

Here is the deal-it really is normal and natural to have cellulite. You should not let the appearance of cellulite diminish your confidence and distract you from all the ways you truly are beautiful. Often referred to as “cottage cheese thighs,” cellulite is the lumpy, dimpled flesh on the hips, thighs, abdomen, and buttocks that forms when fat cells below the skin push up against the skin’s connective tissues. In women, the fat cells and connective tissue are arranged vertically. If the fat cells protrude into the layer of skin, this gives the appearance of cellulite. In men, the tissue is stronger and has a crisscross structure with less subcutaneous fat which means they are less likely to develop cellulite. With that, women often assume fat, or extra weight, is the culprit for cellulite but the number on the scale rarely coincides with how much cellulite you have. 

Regular exercise, drinking plenty of water and eating well are not only the best options for an overall healthy life but can go a long way to easily and naturally reducing the appearance of cellulite. Adding muscle and plumping the skin with hydration from foods and water can really do wonders for your skin’s laxity and smoothness. You may also find that dry brushing or using a fascia blaster can help fade the look of cellulite. For the most effective option, it would be worth your time to seek the advice of a dermatologist. Laser treatment options have proven to be effective. The heat provided by the laser can reduce the thickness of the subcutaneous layer, releasing some the connective tissue known as fibrous septae that pulls the skin down causing cellulite, stimulating collagen production to help plump the skin and improving the skin’s elasticity and texture. Non-laser treatments include both radiofrequency and injections. Seeking the experience and skill of a board-certified dermatologist will help you determine which treatment option would be most effective for you. 

To have your skin evaluated, contact THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology at 602-867-7546 or WEBSITE. THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology offers many advanced techniques and procedures for your body concerns. You can achieve your aesthetic goals of smoother and firmer skin with a variety of effective options. To learn more about cellulite treatments and the best ways to refresh and revitalize your skin, give us a call today!

Kybella has been dubbed the “double chin eliminator.” While Kybella is designed to eliminate small pockets of excess fat below the chin, it is not the right procedure for everyone. For some patients, it may not offer enough of a dramatic change, and you may elect to combine a Kybella procedure with another cosmetic treatment such as dermal fillers. Fillers at the jawline in addition to Kybella can help define the area between the face and the neck. 

Who is a good candidate for Kybella? Good candidates are those who have extra fullness below the chin. Kybella is a synthetic version of deoxycholic acid that is injected into a targeted area to break down and absorb fat. Submental fullness, double chin, is often associated with being overweight but once you have reached your ideal or stable weight, you may find that genetics and aging are the real culprits for the extra fat left behind. If diet and exercise have been prioritized and stubborn fat remains, you may be a good candidate for Kybella. Skin elasticity is another consideration for Kybella treatments as Kybella does not treat sagging skin and is not the most effective treatment for tightening of the skin. If you have a significant amount of fat below the chin, liposuction may be a better option. However, Kybella is also a great alternative for those who want visible, lasting results without invasive surgery. Lastly, good candidates will also rule out anyone with microgenia, a weak chin bone condition caused early in life, or anyone with neck muscle conditions. In some cases, Botox may be recommended for those who are not good candidates for Kybella. 

Good candidates for Kybella will also be aware that results will be achieved over time. Best results may require 6 treatments over 6 months to achieve. Kybella does not require any prep work by the patient ahead of time so the only thing you need to do is set your appointment. THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology has a team of board-certified dermatologists ready to answer your questions and provide you with solutions for a better contour and the vision you hope to see when you look in the mirror. Call today at 602-867-7546or book online at WEBSITE.

Psoriasis is a very common skin disorder where skin cells multiply 10 times more rapidly than normal. Psoriasis is an immune-mediated inflammatory disease that causes raised, scaly patches on the skin.  An autoimmune disorder is one in which the body’s immune system turns its defenses on itself, attacking cells and tissues it mistakenly thinks are harmful. With psoriasis, the epidermis, the top layer of skin, suffers the ramifications. Anyone can develop psoriasis. Genetics are thought to play a role in developing psoriasis as studies have shown that psoriasis runs in families and is associated with gene mutations. Around 10% of the population inherits one or more of the genes that are linked to psoriasis development, although just 2-3% acquire psoriasis.

Genetic changes make psoriasis more likely to occur, but environmental factors can contribute to changes in the immune system, effectively activating the disease and producing symptoms. The most common risk factors include family history, infections, medications, skin trauma, smoking and obesity. Stress, gluten intolerance and cold weather are other additional and surprising contributors to psoriasis. It is not uncommon for those with psoriasis to have more than one auto-immune disease with overlapping symptoms. Changing or eliminating some of the outside factors that contribute to psoriasis can alleviate symptoms.

While there is no cure for psoriasis, there are options to manage flare-ups and even possibly eradicate symptoms. Topical treatments for psoriasis include steroid creams, enzyme inhibitors, salicylic acid, calcipotriol (a strong form of synthetic vitamin D), Tapinarof, and Tazorac. Immunosuppressants, and prescription retinoids. Phototherapy, laser therapy and UVB therapy are also proven treatment options. Natural remedies include colloidal oatmeal, aloe vera, Epsom salts, apple cider vinegar and a healthy diet. For severe psoriasis, Methotrexate and Cyclosporine are top solutions offered by doctors, but they do come with risks that include lung and kidney problems as well as high blood pressure.

If you are experiencing the signs and symptoms of psoriasis, contact a dermatologist at THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology to begin a treatment plan to improve skin and alleviate discomfort. To schedule an appointment call 602-867-7546 or visit us online at WEBSITE. 

Although there are different skincare regimens available to men than women, identifying what type of skin type you have will help you best in the long run to treat your skin than distinguishing what is a traditionally marketed as a male or female product, as we all have skin that performs the same function. The 4 main skin types are normal, oily, dry, and sensitive skin. You may also find that you have combination skin that includes one or more of these types. Normal skin is usually tolerant of most products without any harsh results. Oily skin is often associated with breakouts and extra shine. Dry skin requires additional moisturizing for skin that can produce redness, flaking or be a result of skin conditions such as eczema. Sensitive skin can react negatively to new products so they should be introduced with patch testing and verifying that the ingredients list is both minimal and as gentle and natural as possible. 

Men may seek out specific products with ingredients to better suit their needs that might include focusing on oilier skin or denser hair growth compared to women while women may wish to use products that help the triggers of the hormonal or menstruation cycle. The most simplistic skin care regimen for men or women is to focus on 3 basic steps: cleanse, moisturize and protect. A gentle, PH-balanced cleanser is recommended to suit all skin types. Typically cream based cleansers are recommended for dry or sensitive skin while foaming cleansers are recommended for oily skin. After the skin is cleansed and patted dry, moisturizer is the next step. As we age, skin loses collagen, elastin, and hydration. A good moisturizer will help to plump and hydrate the skin. Ceramide-rich moisturizers are highly recommended for all skin types but especially for men who shave. Within the moisturizing step, many men choose to include serums and toners to combat acne, even out skin tone, add brightening to the skin and another layer of hydration. Good old fashioned beard oil is also a great addition for those with facial hair. If you are prone to ingrown hairs, a gentle exfoliation scrub will help to remove dead skin cells. Finally, the best way to protect your skin when you will be outside is to put on a layer of sunscreen. In addition to preventing skin cancer, sunscreen aids in reducing fine lines, wrinkles, and pigmentation as well as help to slow the look of aging. 

Your skin is as unique as you are. While the information above helps to differentiate skin types and provides a basic overview for skincare regimens for men, THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology can help you determine the products and ingredients that are best suited for your skin. Call today for your appointment by calling 602-867-7546 or schedule online at WEBSITE. THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology will offer you a skincare regimen that can benefit a man’s skin with a dedicated approach to skincare. 

All the benefits of skin tightening with no downtime, no scarring, and no surgery, radiofrequency sounds like a thing of the past but is really the new “wavelength” of the future in dermatology. Although radiofrequency has been used on the skin for over 20 years, it continues to evolve and improve making RF treatments an in-demand option for laxity and crepe-like skin. Radiofrequency therapy is a skin tightening treatment using energy waves to heat the deep layer of skin known as the dermis. Radiofrequency treatments have garnered high praise for a host of skin conditions and can aid in tightening up sagging skin, smoothing cellulite, reducing stretch marks, plumping out wrinkles, decreasing fine lines, and brightening up the skin to look more youthful and rejuvenated. 

Thermal energy warms the deep layers of skin by sending energy waves to wake up skin cells, stimulating collagen and promoting tissue contraction to improve the appearance and quality of the skin. Radiofrequency treatments create “micro-injuries” to cause the skin to improve itself but are considered safe and effective. Treatments can be performed on the face and neck as well as for fat-targeting treatments in the belly and underarms. Radiofrequency is also a treatment option for vaginal rejuvenation. 

There are different types of devices and device modes depending upon the level of treatment you need as well as what issues you are looking to address. While tightening and lifting are great benefits of radiofrequency, RF can be used in conjunction with other treatments such as micro needling for even greater results. Secret RF is a device that combines radiofrequency and micro needling specifically to treat white stretch marks to stimulate regeneration and cell turnover. 

If you are looking to repair the look of your skin with the added benefit of some fat loss and contouring, radiofrequency treatments may be the right option for you. THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology has a variety of skin rejuvenating treatments that can accommodate a range of budgets and aesthetic goals. Your personalized consultation is just a phone call at 602-867-7546 or click away at WEBSITE.

In pop culture, facial moles that appear in just the right place, like Hollywood icon Elizabeth Taylor or supermodel Cindy Crawford, have been deemed beauty marks. Formed when skin cells begin to cluster instead of spreading evenly, moles and beauty marks share the same genetic makeup, they are only labeled differently based on placement and aesthetic value. While celebrities of today are more likely to promote plastic surgery benefits over natural occurring beauty marks, moles are typically harmless and, in most cases, it is not necessary to have them removed. However, if you have a mole or moles that you find irritating or uncomfortable, have undergone a biopsy and tested positive for cancer, or simply think a blemish is making you feel anything but beautiful, THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology offers mole removal procedures with permanent solutions. 

Do moles grow back? Although highly unlikely, it is possible for a mole to return after it has been removed. Noncancerous moles have the same chance of regrowth as cancerous moles so there is no reason to be concerned right away if regrowth occurs. To prevent moles from growing back, it is important for your dermatologist to remove all the mole cells including those in deeper layers under the skin. There are 2 main types of mole removal, shave excision and surgical excision. Because a shave excision procedure cuts off the mole at the surface of the skin, shave excision moles are the ones that are more likely to grow back because deeper mole skin cells may have been left behind. In addition, patients should not try to remove moles at home but instead seek the expertise of a dermatologist who can perform the treatment safely and effectively. 

Signs that a mole should be evaluated by a doctor include moles that have an asymmetrical shape, irregular bordering around the mole, changes in color, larger than 6mm in diameter (the size of a pencil eraser), and a mole that continues to evolve by changing shape, size or color. In the event a mole is cancerous, a dermatologist may opt for Mohs surgery as your mole removal option especially for cosmetically sensitive areas like the face. Mohs surgery removes cancerous cells to eliminate skin cancer while also sparing healthy tissue and leaving minimal scarring. Mohs surgery has a very high cure rate of up to 99% for skin cancer that has not been treated before and up to 94% for a recurring skin cancer from a previous treatment.

If you are looking to have a mole removed for common cosmetic reasons or have concerns about skin cancer, THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology can help. For a convenient appointment time, call our office at 602-867-7546 or visit online at WEBSITE.

Although most warts are considered harmless, it is best to avoid any type of do-it-yourself fixes and seek the treatment options only a skill and certified dermatologist can provide. While over the counter medications can be effective, they often take weeks to fully get rid of the wart. THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology understands that warts can be embarrassing and unsightly especially depending where it is located on the body. Rest assured, dermatologists have seen everything related to the skin. 

Warts are infected skin cell growths caused by HPV, the human papilloma virus, which includes many different strains and modes of transmission. In some cases, HPV is sexually transmitted leading to genital warts. Some more common types of warts are found on the hands, feet, elbows, knees, face or other non-genital parts of the body due to contact of HPV, although not everyone with HPV exposure will develop warts. Types of warts include common warts, plantar warts, flat warts, filiform warts and periungual warts.  

A dermatologist can remove a wart via several options including prescription-strength wart medications with salicylic acid applied topically to kill the virus, cryotherapy to freeze the wart off completely, laser therapy or wart removal surgery. It is never advised to cut off a wart yourself. Not only can it lead to further injury, but the wart can spread. Always seek the care and direction of a dermatologist to remove a wart. 

To prevent warts from spreading, patients should refrain from touching or picking the wart, do not scratch the wart, always wear shoes in public places if you develop warts on the feet and keep the wart as dry as possible. 

If you have an unwanted or stubborn wart, our board-certified dermatologists at THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology offer clinical and cosmetic dermatological services with expert, quality care in a compassionate office setting. Call 602-867-7546 or fill out our patient request form at WEBSITE. 

Although a seemingly new trend for cosmetic procedures, Euro threads have been used for over 30 years medically as absorbable surgical sutures. In the world of dermatology, Euro threads are a minimally invasive alternative to facelift surgery. While Euro threads will not fully replicate a traditional facelift, they can provide dramatic benefits before committing to major surgery. Euro threads work in 2 ways: to provide a mechanism to lift the skin and to stimulate the natural production of collagen. 

Euro threading is an anti-aging cosmetic treatment that uses biodegradable threads to improve skin laxity by lifting and tightening the face. Tiny threads are inserted under the skin in specific locations, usually along the cheeks, hair line and jawline where, over time, the threads will lift the skin and improve the skin’s appearance by increasing both collagen and elastin produced by the body. Once the work has been completed by the Euro threads, the body will absorb and eliminate them. 

Euro threads last under the skin for about 4 to 6 months before they dissolve. The benefits after treatment will last anywhere from 12 to 18 months. Patients choose Euro threads to correct sagging eyebrows and eyelids, jowls, aging neck and deep furrows between the nose and corners of the mouth. Euro threads are one of many cosmetic procedures that can be performed in conjunction with another dermatological service or plastic surgery such as a brow lift, chin lift, neck lift or face lift. 

If you are looking to rejuvenate your skin while addressing the concerns of aging, Euro threads may be the option for you. Reducing the appearance of lines, folds and wrinkles, Euro threading will tighten, lift and contour your skin with noticeable results right away with continued improvement as your body responds to the stimulation of new collagen. 

THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology welcomes you to book your consultation today to learn more about Euro threads and the ways we can help you look younger. Call 602-867-7546 or visit online at WEBSITE for more information. 

Skin is the largest organ in 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 requiring 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 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!