Spotting a mole on your skin is usually no big deal. After all, they are incredibly common, especially for people with fair complexions. But how do you know when a mole is just a harmless spot or a sign of something more serious?

Moles, known medically as nevi, are small clusters of pigment-producing cells called melanocytes. They can range in color from flesh-toned to deep brown or black and may be flat or raised. Most moles are benign, meaning they aren’t dangerous. But certain changes in a mole’s appearance could indicate a warning sign for skin cancer, including melanoma-the most serious type. 

There are 4 main types of moles. Congenital moles are present at birth or soon after. These moles are usually harmless, although large congenital moles may carry a slightly higher risk for developing melanoma later in life. Acquired moles develop during childhood or adolescence, often triggered by sun exposure or hormonal shifts like pregnancy. These are the most common and are typically uniform in shape and color but still deserve attention if they start to evolve. Atypical moles, dysplastic nevi, are often larger than a pencil eraser, with irregular shapes, uneven coloring and jagged borders. Because these moles can sometimes evolve into melanoma, dermatologists keep a close eye on them. Spitz nevi are pink, dome-shaped and raised, commonly appearing in children and teens. They can look like melanoma, so dermatologists often recommend a biopsy if the mole changes or grows. 

So, when should you worry? The golden rule dermatologists follow is the ABCDEs of melanoma detection:

• Asymmetry-One half doesn’t match the other

• Border-Edges are irregular, ragged or blurred

• Color-Varies from one area to another, including unusual shade like red, white or blue

• Diameter-Larger than 6 millimeters (about the size of a pencil eraser)

• Evolving-Any noticeable change in size, shape, color or texture

Any mole that bleeds, itches or suddenly grows is an immediate red flag and should be checked by a dermatologist. While many moles are removed for cosmetic reasons, moles showing atypical traits or posing health risks should be evaluated and possibly biopsied for your safety.

Moles are not the only spots that appear on the skin. Several conditions can look strikingly similar, adding confusion and risk if misidentified. These include:

• Seborrheic Keratosis: Often mistaken for moles, these are waxy, wart-like growths that stick to the skin’s surface. While benign, their rough texture and irregular and irregular coloring can mimic more serious lesions. 

• Skin Tags: Small, soft, flesh-colored growths that dangle from the skin. Unlike moles, they don’t contain pigmented cells and are not linked to cancer. 

• Freckles: Flat and usually light in color, freckles are small clusters of concentrated melanin caused by sun exposure, not an overgrowth of skin cells. 

• Lentigines (Age Spots): These flat, darkened patches result from UV damage and are more common with age, often confused for moles but typically harmless. 

• Melanoma: The most serious look-alike, melanoma can initially present as a mole or develop from an existing one, making professional evaluation crucial. 

Regular skin checks, both at home and by a professional, are the best way to catch skin cancer early, when it’s highly treatable. If you’ve noticed a mole changing or fitting any description in the ABCDEs, don’t wait. Early detection can save lives. If you’ve noticed something unusual on your skin and you’re just not sure what it is? Trust your instincts and let us take a closer look. Your skin tells a story-let’s make sure it’s a healthy one. Give THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology a call at 602-867-7546 or visit WEBSITE to schedule a personalized skin check.

Tired of spending time perfecting your makeup routine, only to end up with patchy foundation or cakey coverage that highlights every bump and pore? Yeah, we’ve all been there. The truth is, flawless makeup starts way before you even open your makeup bag. So how do you make your makeup actually work for your skin and not against it? In this post, we’re spilling the best skin-friendly makeup tips straight from a dermatology perspective to help you create a radiant, healthy-looking finish that feels just as good as it looks. No guesswork, just glow. 

Treat your face like you would a canvas. You wouldn’t paint the walls of your home without prepping and priming them first, consider the same for your makeup routine. It begins with skincare first. Hydration and exfoliation are your secret weapons in setting the stage for a smooth look. Before you even think about makeup, skincare is the real MVP. A gentle, non-stripping cleanser followed by a hydrating moisturizer lays the foundation for everything that comes next. And do not skip sunscreen, even if your foundation claims to have SPF. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides and niacinamide in your routine. These ingredients hydrate, calm and create the smoothest base possible. 

When it comes to choosing your makeup products, “non-comedogenic” is your new favorite word. This simply means the product won’t clog your pores, essential for keeping breakouts at bay. And if your skin tends to be reactive, stick with fragrance-free formulas that won’t trigger irritation. Once you’ve got your products, resist the urge to go full glam all at once. Think light, breathable layers that you can build on gradually. Apply foundation with a damp sponge to avoid dragging or irritating the skin, aiding in allowing the product to melt into the skin more naturally. 

While matte finishes might be trending, they are not always the kindest to your skin. Instead reach for foundations or BB creams or tints with a satin or natural finish, ideally with skincare ingredients built in. These formulas allow your skin to breathe and move naturally, without feeling tight, cakey or mask-like. And let’s not forget about your tools—because even the best makeup products can backfire if your brushes and sponges aren’t clean. Over time, they collect oil, bacteria and leftover product, which can sneak right back onto your skin and cause breakouts or irritation. To keep things clean and skin-safe, give your brushes a good wash at least once a week and replace your beauty sponges every one to three months. Trust us—your skin will notice the difference.

Finally, how you take your makeup off is just as important as how you put it on. Harsh scrubbing or leftover residue can disrupt your skin barrier, leading to more irritation down the line. Use gentle cleansing balm or micellar water to dissolve makeup first, then follow with your regular cleanser for a thorough but gentle double cleanse. If you are trying something new, always do a patch test first. Dab a bit of product behind your ear or on your jawline and wait 24 hours. If your skin stays happy, you’re good to go. 

At the end of the day, makeup should celebrate your natural beauty—not compete with it. With a few thoughtful product choices and skin-smart habits, you can create a look that not only turns heads but also treats your skin with care. Your complexion will thank you! 
To learn more skin-friendly makeup tips that work best for your skin type, make an appointment with THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology. Call 602-867-7546 or visit WEBSITE.

Take a deep breath. This too shall pass. Let it go. You’ve got this. While a mix of comforting, encouraging and sometimes cliché one-liners are offered in response to another person’s stress, it’s not always that easy to control and calm the chaos you are experiencing inside – and out. We’ve all felt the weight of stress, whether it’s looming deadlines, emotional upheaval or the nonstop noise of daily life. What many people don’t realize is that stress doesn’t just live in your head or your to-do list, it shows up on your skin. From unexpected breakouts to dullness, flare-ups and premature aging, your skin is often the first to reveal when life is a little too overwhelming. 

While stress may be inevitable, its impact on your skin doesn’t have to be. Understanding the stress/skin connection is the first step in breaking the cycle and reclaiming your glow. When you are under stress, your body kicks into fight-or-flight mode, releasing hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. These are lifesavers in an emergency, but when released continuously due to chronic stress, they wreak havoc on your skin in multiple ways. Cortisol signals your sebaceous (oil) glands to ramp up activity, leading to clogged pores, breakouts and sets the stage for acne-causing bacteria to thrive. Additionally, cortisol can impact the skin’s immune response, delaying healing and increasing the risk of scars or infection. Chronic stress disrupts the skin’s protective barrier, making it more susceptible to dryness, redness, irritation and environmental aggressors like pollution and UV rays. Stress also breaks down collagen and elastin, the proteins responsible for keeping skin firm and youthful. Over time, this leads to fine lines, sagging and wrinkles. 

Stress may be invisible but how it affects your skin can be noticeable for all to see. Managing stress can help your mind—and your skin—respond with resilience. Here are some ways to get started:

• Deep breathing, meditation and yoga. Try the 4-7-8 technique where you inhale for 4 seconds, hold your breath for 7 seconds then slowly exhale for 8 seconds, repeating several times, to improve heart rate variability, calm the nervous system and promote relaxation. 

• Your skin repairs itself while sleeping. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep every night.

• Eat a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, omega 3s and hydrating foods; limit sugar, processed foods and alcohol that can cause gut imbalance and inflammation to the skin

• Strengthen your skincare routine with gentle ingredients like ceramides, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid and aloe vera that work to repair the skin barrier

• Apply SPF daily as stress makes skin more vulnerable to UV damage

If stress-mitigating techniques aren’t resolving your skin issues, and flare-ups and stubborn skin issues persist, see a board-certified dermatologist. Treatments and interventions that target stress-related symptoms can be effective in restoring confidence of your appearance. 
Need personalized skincare support? Reach out to THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology at 602-867-7546 or WEBSITE to book your skin health consultation today!

Mirror, mirror on the wall… why is my skin starting to fall? If you’ve noticed a little extra droop around your cheeks, jawline or neck, you’re not alone. Sagging skin is a universal struggle, thanks to the not-so-kind effects of aging. But before you blame it on just another birthday, let’s break down why gravity seems to be winning this battle—and what you can do to fight back.

Imagine your skin as a trampoline. When you’re younger, it’s tight, firm and bouncy—held together by collagen and elastin, 2 essential proteins that keep everything in place. But as we age, our skin slowly stops producing these proteins, causing it to lose its snap-back factor.

Gravity, of course, doesn’t help. Without enough collagen and elastin to hold things up, your skin starts to cave under the constant downward pull. But that’s not all—facial fat pads, which once gave you that youthful fullness, begin to shrink and shift, creating hollows and loose skin. Add in weakening muscles, hormonal changes (hello, menopause) sun exposure, smoking, poor diet and even weight fluctuations, and you’ve got the perfect storm for sagging skin.

So, what’s the fix? Skincare can only do so much, and a full-blown facelift feels a little extreme. Enter into the chat: Thread lifts. 

Think of thread lifts as the ultimate middle ground between fancy creams and full-on surgery. These tiny, dissolvable threads are placed under the skin to physically lift sagging areas while stimulating collagen production for longer-term firming effects. Unlike fillers, which restore volume but don’t actually lift, threads provide an instant tightening effect while continuing to improve skin texture over time.

Thread lifts are having a major moment and here are the reasons why: 

• Instant results – no more waiting for collagen to boost up, sagging skin is tightened right away
• No more overfilled look – subtle, natural results that don’t leave you looking puffy
• Minimal downtime – thread lifts are dubbed the “lunchtime facelift” for a reason
• Long lasting results for 1 to 2 years compared to Botox (3 to 6 months) and fillers (6 to 12 months)

Which thread lift is right for you? There are key differences in thread lifts based on a variety of factors. Let’s break them down:

PDO (Polydioxanone) Threads, also known as General Thread Lifts: 

• Material – PDO, PLLA or PCL (Polycaprolactone)

• Lifting mechanism – Barbed or smooth threads lift and stimulate collagen

• Collagen Stimulation – Varies based on thread type, PDO=moderate, PLLA/PCL=stronger

• Longevity – PDO (6 to 9 months), PLLA/PCL (12 to 24 months)

• Best Suited For – Skin tightening, mild lifting

• Immediate Results? – Yes, but may take weeks to fully develop

EuroThreads:

• Material – PDO (Polydioxanone) or PLLA

• Lifting mechanism – Barbs or smooth sutures hold and stimulate collagen

• Collagen Stimulation – Moderate collagen stimulation

• Longevity – 6 to 12 months

• Best Suited For – General lifting in various areas

• Immediate Results? – Yes, but improvement depends on thread type

Silhouette InstaLift: 

• Material – PLLA (Polylactic Acid) with bidirectional cones

• Lifting mechanism – Cones anchor the tissue for stronger mechanical lift

• Collagen Stimulation – Strong collagen stimulation induction over time

• Longevity – 12 to 24 months

• Best Suited For – Lifting and volumizing cheeks, jowls and jawline

• Immediate Results? – Yes, with continued improvement

Silhouette InstaLift has a unique advantage over thread lift options because of its PLLA material and cone technology, which provides both an immediate mechanical lift and long-term collagen regeneration. It’s best for patients looking for a noticeable lift with volume restoration in the mid-face and jawline. 

If you’ve been looking for a subtle yet effective way to refresh your look, thread lifts might just be the upgrade your skin has been waiting for. Ready to turn back time—without surgery? Threads are here to lift your spirits (and your skin)! Contact THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology at 602-867-7546 or WEBSITE today. 

If you’ve spent any time scrolling through skincare ads, you’ve probably encountered promises of miracles—promising perfect, glowing skin in a bottle. While many of these claims are exaggerated, there is one skincare ingredient that actually lives up to its reputation: retinoids. Whether you’re dealing with acne, uneven texture or signs of aging like fine lines and wrinkles, retinoids can be a game-changer.

Retinoids are a class of compounds derived from Vitamin A, renowned for their powerful ability to transform your skin. From speeding up cell turnover to unclogging pores, these ingredients are scientifically proven to promote smoother, clearer and more youthful-looking skin. But with so many options on the market, from over-the-counter products to prescription-strength formulas, it can be hard to know where to start.

First, let’s break it down. Retinoids come in various forms, including retinol, retinaldehyde, retinyl esters and retinoic acid (the latter being available by prescription). Each has a different strength and formulation, and the higher the concentration, the more potent the effects. However, a higher price tag doesn’t always guarantee better results, as potency is key to effectiveness, not the cost. When you apply retinol to your skin, it gets converted into retinoic acid, the active form of Vitamin A, which works magic at the cellular level to boost collagen production, enhance elasticity and give you that radiant, plump skin everyone craves.

For those just starting with retinoids, it’s best to ease into it. Over-the-counter options are a great way to test your skin’s tolerance. Since dryness and redness are common when first incorporating retinoids into your skincare routine, begin with a lower concentration and gradually increase it as your skin builds tolerance. Once you’ve mastered the OTC retinoid game, you may want to take things up a notch and explore stronger formulations like tretinoin, tazarotene or trifarotene—popular among beauty bloggers and dermatologists alike. These high-powered options work wonders for hyperpigmentation, fine lines, acne and uneven texture.

Here’s a pro tip: apply your retinoid in the evening as part of your nighttime routine, as it’s best to avoid sun exposure while the product is active. Retinoids can also be quite drying, so remember to moisturize generously and keep your skin hydrated. Be cautious not to mix retinoids with strong acids like glycolic acid or AHAs as they can increase irritation. Start by using retinoids a few times a week, and then gradually build up to nightly use as your skin adapts.

The magic of retinoids lies in their ability to boost collagen, reduce inflammation and improve skin tone and texture. Whether you’re targeting acne scars, smoothing fine lines or just want to keep your complexion looking bright and fresh, retinoids are your go-to solution. Not only will they revitalize your skin, but they’ll also help you maintain that youthful glow with consistent use.

Looking to create a skincare regimen that works specifically for you? A personalized consultation with a board-certified dermatologist can help you unlock the best retinoid options for your skin type and needs. Reach out to THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology at 602-867-7546 or visit our website at WEBSITE to book your consultation today.

The neck shows signs of aging faster than other parts of the body. And for some, it feels like the clock sped up overnight. The skin on the neck is thinner and more delicate than other areas, making it more prone to wrinkles, sagging and sun damage. Additionally, the neck gets less attention in skincare routines compared to the face. The neck also lacks fatty tissue, which provides less natural plumpness and support, leading to more noticeable lines and creases. The neck is also constantly in motion, whether from looking down at phones, bending over or turning the head, which can cause repetitive stress and contribute to signs of aging. 

Want tips to improve an aging neck and keep it looking youthful? Below you will find at home as well as dermatological treatments that can help tighten, smooth and rejuvenate the skin. 

First things first: Hydrate! The skin on your neck is delicate, so slathering on a rich moisturizer packed with moisture-attracting ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin will keep your skin soft, smooth and plump. Next, don’t forget sunscreen. Yes, even on your neck. Protecting it from harmful UV rays is essential for avoiding premature aging, so make sure to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen every single day.

For even more targeted care, try a neck-specific cream. These are formulated to nourish the thinner skin of the neck, often with peptides, retinol and collagen-boosting ingredients that keep sagging at bay. Want to give your skin a little extra love? Try a gentle massage. Massaging upward while applying your skincare can help improve circulation and smooth out lines. Pair that with some neck exercises like gently tilting your head back or stretching side to side to help tone and keep that neck flexible.

Now, let’s talk posture. Standing tall isn’t just about looking confident—it’s also about reducing strain on your neck and preventing those pesky creases. Be mindful, especially when you’re hunched over your phone or computer. Speaking of which, your sleep position matters too. Sleeping on your back with a supportive pillow will prevent unnecessary pressure on your neck, keeping those lines at bay.

For a little extra help, consider adding retinol and vitamin C to your neck care routine. Retinol encourages collagen production and smooths out fine lines, while vitamin C brightens the skin and defends against free radicals. Lastly, a healthy diet rich in antioxidants, omega-3s and vitamins like E and C will support skin health from the inside out. And a quick reminder: avoiding smoking and excess alcohol can go a long way in preserving that youthful glow.

For immediate results, consider aesthetic treatments. Sometimes culprits like rapid weight loss, hormonal shifts (particularly with a decrease of estrogen) and the effects of gravity as skin naturally loses elasticity are responsible for an aging neck. Botox or Dysport injections relax the neck muscles, reducing the appearance of vertical bands or sagging, with minimal downtime. For a lifting effect, Ultherapy uses ultrasound energy to stimulate collagen and tighten skin over time, while radiofrequency treatments like Thermage use heat to boost collagen and elastin production for a firmer, smoother neck. Microneedling, especially when combined with PRP, stimulates collagen growth and improves texture, and laser resurfacing tackles fine lines, sunspots and sagging skin. If you’re seeking a more lifted look, PDO thread lifting uses dissolvable threads to provide instant results and stimulate collagen production for longer-lasting tightening. For those struggling with stubborn fat, Kybella injections break down fat cells under the chin for a more sculpted neck. Dermal fillers restore volume and smoothness, helping to rejuvenate sagging areas, while a chemical peel can exfoliate and reveal fresher, brighter skin. Each treatment is tailored to your specific needs, ensuring a youthful, lifted neck with little hassle. 
With proper care you can slow down the aging process. To learn more, contact THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology at 602-867-7546 or WEBSITE.

Psoriasis isn’t just a skin condition; it’s a lifelong autoimmune disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. Beyond the visible red patches and silvery scales lies a deeper struggle, impacting both physical health and emotional well-being. Living with psoriasis often means navigating social stigma, discomfort and uncertainty, but the good news is that advancements in medical treatments offer hope and relief. 

Psoriasis occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells, causing them to multiply too quickly. This results in the buildup of thick, inflamed patches on the skin known as plaques. While the exact cause isn’t fully understood, researchers believe a combination of genetics, immune dysfunction and environmental factors play a role. Along with the discomfort of itching, cracking and bleeding skin, psoriasis can also increase the risk of conditions like heart disease and type 2 diabetes. 

It’s not a one-size-fits-all condition. Psoriasis has several different types, each with distinct symptoms and triggers. 

Plaque Psoriasis (Most Common)

• Appearance: Raised, red patches covered with silvery scales, typically found on the scalp, elbows, knees and lower back 
• Triggers: Stress, skin injuries (cuts, scrapes, sunburns), smoking and excessive alcohol use

Guttate Psoriasis 

• Appearance: Small, red teardrop-shaped spots, often on the arms, legs and torso
• Triggers: Bacterial or viral infections (especially strep throat), cold and dry weather

Inverse Psoriasis

• Appearance: Smooth, shiny red rashes that may turn purplish or brown, commonly found in skin folds (armpits, groin, under the breasts)
• Triggers: Friction, sweating and fungal infections

Pustular Psoriasis (Rare and Severe)

• Appearance: Pus-filled blisters, which can appear alongside plaque psoriasis
• Triggers: Infections, hormonal changes (such as pregnancy or menopause) and certain medications

Erythrodermic Psoriasis

• Appearance: Widespread redness, swelling and peeling of the skin across most of the body
• Triggers: Sudden withdrawal from psoriasis medications, severe sunburn, infections or underlying medical conditions

While there is no cure for psoriasis, a variety of treatments can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. The best treatment plan depends on the severity and type of psoriasis. Topical treatments such as corticosteroids, vitamin D analogs, retinoids, coal tar preparations and calcineurin inhibitors, help reduce inflammation and slow down skin cell growth. Light therapy, including UVB phototherapy and PUVA therapy, can control symptoms by exposing the skin to ultraviolet light under medical supervision. Systemic medications like methotrexate, cyclosporine and acitretin work throughout the body to suppress immune system overactivity. Biologic therapies, including TNF, IL-17, IL-23 and IL-12/23 inhibitors, target specific immune responses that contribute to psoriasis. Oral medications such as apremilast help regulate immune activity and reduce inflammation. 

Skincare and lifestyle adjustments play a significant role in managing psoriasis. Salicylic acid, emollients and moisturizers can ease discomfort and reduce scaling, while managing stress, avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol use, and maintaining a healthy diet can also aid in symptom control and overall health.
If you are struggling with psoriasis, you do not have to face it alone. At THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology, our dermatology team is here to provide personalized treatment plans and expert guidance tailored to your needs. Whether you are looking for relief from flare-ups or exploring long-term management options, we are here to help. Schedule a consultation with us today at 602-867-7546 and take the first step toward healthier skin and a better quality of life. To learn more, visit WEBSITE.

Your skin, hair and nails are integral to your overall health, making dermatology an essential branch of medicine. Whether you’re dealing with acne, allergies, hair loss or a more serious condition like skin cancer, finding a trustworthy dermatologist is a critical step in ensuring proper care. But with so many options available, how do you choose the right one? Here’s what to consider.

Referrals are one of the easiest ways to find a reputable dermatologist without extensive research. If you have a trusted primary care physician, start by asking for their recommendations. Friends, family members or colleagues can also provide valuable insights based on their experiences. In addition to personal referrals, online reviews and patient testimonials can help you gauge a doctor’s reputation. Look for consistent positive feedback about a dermatologist’s professionalism, communication style and effectiveness.

A key factor in selecting a dermatologist is ensuring they are board-certified. Look for the acronym FAAD (Fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology) after their name, which confirms they have undergone extensive education and training in dermatology. Board certification by the American Board of Dermatology demonstrates that the doctor has passed rigorous exams and maintains the highest medical standards. This distinction ensures you are receiving care from a highly qualified expert dedicated to the field.

Dermatology has multiple branches, including:

• Medical Dermatology (treatment of skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis and acne)
• Surgical Dermatology (procedures like mole removal and Mohs surgery for skin cancer)
• Cosmetic Dermatology (Botox, fillers and laser treatments)
• Pediatric Dermatology (skin conditions in children)

If you require treatment for a specific issue, ensure your dermatologist has expertise in that specialty. For example, if you’ve been diagnosed with skin cancer requiring Mohs surgery, seek out a dermatologist with extensive experience in this precise procedure. Mohs surgery allows for the removal of cancerous cells while preserving as much healthy skin as possible, making specialist experience vital.

Once you’ve narrowed down potential dermatologists, schedule consultations to get a feel for their approach and bedside manner. A great dermatologist should:

• Actively listen to your concerns without rushing you
• Clearly explain treatment options and answer your questions
• Make you feel comfortable and respected
• Demonstrate confidence, care and professionalism

Your consultation is also a good time to discuss insurance coverage, payment options and after-hours care availability, especially if you’re concerned about emergency situations like allergic reactions.

While expertise is crucial, practical considerations can also impact your decision. Location and accessibility are important—consider whether the office is conveniently located and easy to get to. Insurance coverage and costs should also be factored in; confirm whether the dermatologist accepts your insurance or offers flexible payment plans. Additionally, appointment availability plays a role in your choice. How soon can you get an appointment? Do they offer virtual consultations for added convenience? Ensuring these practical aspects align with your needs can make a significant difference in your overall experience.

Choosing a dermatologist is a decision that affects both your health and confidence. By seeking referrals, verifying board certification, assessing specialization and ensuring a good doctor/patient relationship, you can find a dermatologist who meets your needs. Whether you need routine screenings, cosmetic treatments or specialized procedures, investing time in selecting the right dermatologist will ensure long-term skin, hair and nail health.

To learn more, contact THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology at 602-867-7546 or WEBSITE. 

Euro threads, originally developed as dissolvable surgical sutures, have been used in medicine for decades. In cosmetic dermatology, they provide a minimally invasive alternative to a facelift, offering skin lifting and collagen stimulation without the risks of surgery.

Euro threading, also known as a thread lift, is a non-surgical procedure that tightens and lifts sagging skin using biodegradable threads. These threads are inserted beneath the skin in key areas—such as the cheeks, jawline and brows—to create an immediate lifting effect while promoting natural collagen and elastin production. Over several months, the threads dissolve, leaving behind firmer, more youthful skin.

A Euro thread lift is a quick, outpatient procedure, typically lasting 30 to 60 minutes. During treatment, fine threads are placed under the skin to gently lift and reposition sagging tissue. As the body heals, it produces collagen around the threads, further tightening and rejuvenating the skin. This makes it an excellent option for:

• Lifting drooping brows, cheeks and jowls
• Reducing fine lines and wrinkles
• Smoothing deep folds around the mouth
• Improving jawline and neck contours

While the threads dissolve within 4 to 6 months, their effects can last up to 18 months due to continued collagen stimulation. Patients enjoy progressive improvements in skin firmness and elasticity long after the procedure.

For those seeking a natural-looking lift without surgery, Euro threads offer a safe and effective solution. This treatment:

• Provides immediate results with continued enhancement over time
• Requires minimal downtime compared to traditional facelifts
• Can be combined with injectables like Botox or fillers for a comprehensive anti-aging plan

If you’re looking for a non-invasive way to lift and rejuvenate your skin, Euro threading could be an ideal choice. It delivers subtle, natural results with little recovery time, making it perfect for busy individuals who want a refreshed appearance without drastic changes.
Discover how Euro threads can help you achieve a youthful, lifted look. Schedule a consultation today to explore your personalized treatment plan. Call THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology at 602-867-7546 or visit WEBSITE to get started!

Your skin is your body’s largest organ, and just like any other organ, it needs proper hydration to function optimally. When your skin is dehydrated, it can become dry, flaky and tight, making it more prone to irritation and premature aging. Think of your skin cells like little balloons—when they’re filled with water, they’re plump and smooth. When they’re dehydrated, they deflate, leading to fine lines and dullness.

Exposure to harsh weather, indoor heating, air conditioning, pollution and even long, hot showers can strip your skin of its natural moisture. Add in lifestyle factors like poor diet, lack of sleep and high stress levels, and it’s no wonder our skin feels parched. Plus, many people skip using the right skincare products like humectants and occlusives, which are essential for locking in moisture.

Your skin has a natural barrier, the stratum corneum, that locks in moisture and keeps out environmental irritants. When you hydrate your skin, you’re reinforcing this barrier, making it more resilient against pollutants, allergens and even harsh weather. A well-hydrated skin barrier helps prevent conditions like eczema and keeps your complexion looking fresh and vibrant.

While moisturizers are essential, true skin hydration starts with humectants—ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin that draw water into the skin. These powerhouses can hold up to 1,000 times their weight in water, giving your skin that bouncy, dewy look. Follow up with an occlusive (like a rich cream or facial oil) to seal in all that moisture and prevent it from evaporating.

Dehydrated skin isn’t just a cosmetic issue, it can feel uncomfortable, itchy and even painful. Hydrated skin, on the other hand, feels soft, smooth and calm. Plus, when your skin is properly hydrated, it’s better able to repair itself, reducing redness, sensitivity and breakouts.

While topical products are key, don’t forget to hydrate from within. Drinking enough water, eating water-rich foods (hello, cucumbers & watermelon!) and avoiding excessive caffeine and alcohol can all help keep your skin glowing from the inside out. Drinking water is essential for overall health, but it’s not a magical fix for bad skin. While staying hydrated helps maintain skin elasticity and supports your body’s natural detox processes, it won’t directly cure issues like acne, eczema or excessive dryness. Skin health is influenced by a combination of factors including diet, skincare routine, environmental exposure, hormones and genetics. An extra glass of water is always a good idea, but keep a balanced approach that also involves some external TLC. 

So, next time you’re tempted to skip your skincare routine, remember: hydrated skin isn’t just about looking good, it’s about feeling great and keeping your skin healthy and resilient. Your skin will thank you with that natural, radiant glow you’ll love. 

To book a skin exam, contact THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology at 602-867-7546 or WEBSITE.