As we age, collagen production in our skin slows and existing collagen begins to break down, causing the skin to show facial lines and wrinkles. Injectable wrinkle fillers can give facial skin a plumper, smoother appearance and can give you a more youthful look for a fraction of the cost of a traditional facelift. Most will fill lines and wrinkles in less than 30 minutes with results that can last from a few months to more than a year.

Today we have a wide range of safe, effective wrinkle fillers to choose from:

• Collagen injections replenish the skin’s natural collagen. By supplementing your skin’s own collagen, these wrinkle injections help smooth facial lines and some types of scars.
• Calcium hydroxylapatite is a semi-permanent wrinkle filler that’s suspended in a watery gel and used to increase soft tissue. This is a collagen stimulator to improve the surface texture of your skin as well as stimulate your own collagen to enable the product to last longer.
• Hyaluronic acidis a substance normally made by the body that gives your skin its volume and fullness. Hyaluronic acid injections fill the space between collagen and elastin fibers within the skin which replenishes the natural volume lost with aging.
• Poly-L-lactic acid is an injectable filler used to replace lost facial fat. This synthetic polymer has been used for many years in dissolvable stitches. This product stimulates the body’s own collagen for better skin texture and a longer lasting result.
• Natural body fat from your own thighs or abdomen can be also be used as a wrinkle filler. There’s no risk of allergic reaction, and most people achieve semi-permanent results. Several injections may be required to get the most benefit.

Although wrinkle fillers are a minimally invasive treatment, some pain, swelling and bruising can result from the injections.

When considering wrinkle fillers in Phoenix, it is important to consult with an experienced cosmetic surgeon like Dr. Holy. At our Phoenix office, we can help you make the right choice among the best wrinkle fillers available. Contact The Center for Advanced Dermatology today at 602-867-7546 or mddermsolutions.com to find out how our wide variety of wrinkle fillers can help you achieve younger looking skin.

Chemical peels effectively treat a host of skin problems including acne, discoloration, fine lines and wrinkles. In Phoenix, Dr. Holy applies a chemical formula to the face, removing the damaged outer layer of skin and resulting in softer, smoother skin underneath. Most procedures take less than an hour to perform with minimal discomfort during the treatment.

There are several types of chemical peels offered today which allows Dr. Holy to find the best formula for your specific needs. Some of the most common include:

Alpha Hydroxy Acid – Alpha hydroxy acids, also known as AHAs, are one of the most popular ingredients in a mild chemical peel. Glycolic acid is the most common AHA used for this purpose. AHA peels rarely need any sort of anesthetic to perform and the discomfort during and after the procedure is minimal. This peel is typically used to reduce the appearance of fine lines, smooth rough skin and produce a more even skin tone.

Trichloroacetic Acid – Trichloroacetic acid is the most common ingredient found in medium chemical peels. This substance can successfully treat a host of skin imperfections including sun damage, fine lines and wrinkles, and acne scarring. Most patients do not require anesthesia during the procedure, although over the counter pain medications may be needed for a day or two afterward to reduce the stinging sensation that can sometimes occur. TCA chemical peels usually take about a week to recover from and the results are much more dramatic than lighter peels can offer.

Phenol – Phenol is the substance of choice for deep chemical peels. In addition to treating skin imperfections, this type of chemical peel may be used to remove precancerous growths or completely diminish deep wrinkles. Because the formula works more deeply than other types of chemical peels, most phenol peels involve a local anesthesia during the procedure and pain medication afterward.

The right type of chemical peel for you will depend on your unique skin needs and the results you are hoping for. Contact The Center for Advanced Dermatology at 602-867-7546 or mddermsolutions.com to schedule a consultation with Dr. Holy.

Excess fat under the chin is a common aesthetic problem, affecting people of all ages. Submental (under the chin) fat is commonly called a double chin. It can impact the lines of the neck and jawline, add years to your appearance and make a person who is trim and fit look older and overweight. At The Center for Advanced Dermatology in Phoenix, we offer a non-invasive treatment to correct this issue.

Kybella is a non-surgical procedure that is capable of eliminating a double chin and dramatically improving one’s appearance. This innovative treatment is the first and only injectable to be approved by the FDA to eliminate the appearance of a double chin.

How does it work? The Kybella injectable is comprised of deoxycholic acid, a chemical that is used to help absorb fats which the body naturally produces. When this chemical is directly injected into the tissue under a patient’s chin, the deoxycholic acid destroys the walls of fat cells which ultimately causes the tissue to slowly dissolve as it is metabolized by the body, allowing the tissue under the chin to achieve a more sculpted appearance.

Every patient is different, but the benefits of Kybella can generally be seen after as few as two or three treatments. In some cases, as many as six treatments might be necessary to receive the maximum benefit. Given that this injectable treatment destroys fat cells in the treated area, the results that Kybella produces are long-lasting and will not require additional treatment sessions.

Kybella must be administered by a highly trained professional for your safety and optimal results. To learn more or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Holy, contact The Center for Advanced Dermatology at 602-867-7546 or mddermsolutions.com today.

Dermabrasion is a skin resurfacing technique that is mainly used to treat facial scarring. During this procedure in Phoenix, superficial layers of the epidermis are removed to smooth the skin. Dermabrasion may also be used to treat deep facial lines and wrinkles, sun damage and uneven skin tone.

Dermabrasion treatment can have several side effects, including:

Redness and Swelling: After dermabrasion, treated skin will be red and swollen. Swelling will begin to decrease within a few days to one week but might last for weeks or even months.

Enlarged Pores: Dermabrasion might cause your pores to grow larger. Typically, pores shrink to near normal size after any swelling decreases.

Changing Skin Color: Dermabrasion often causes treated skin to temporarily become darker than normal (hyperpigmentation), lighter than normal (hypopigmentation) or blotchy. These problems are more common in people who have darker skin and can sometimes be permanent.

White Bumps: You might notice tiny white bumps (milia) on treated skin. These bumps usually disappear on their own or with the use of soap or an abrasive pad.

Infection: Rarely, dermabrasion can lead to a bacterial, fungal or viral infection such as a flare-up of the herpes virus — the virus that causes cold sores.

Scarring: Rarely, dermabrasion that’s done too deeply can cause scarring. Steroid medications can be used to soften the appearance of these scars.

Skin reactions: If you often develop allergic skin rashes or other skin reactions, dermabrasion might cause your skin to flare up.

Dermabrasion isn’t for everyone. Dr. Holy might caution against dermabrasion if you:

• Have recently taken certain medications
• Have a personal or family history of ridged areas caused by an overgrowth of scar tissue (keloids)
• Have acne or other pus-filled skin condition
• Have recurrent herpes simplex infections
• Have burn scars or skin that’s been damaged by radiation treatments

To find out if dermabrasion is right for you, contact The Center for Advanced Dermatology at 602-867-7546 or mddermsolutions.com to schedule a consultation.

Eczema is one of the most common skin conditions in the United States, affecting more than 30 million Americans today. While it doesn’t generally cause health complications, it can have a strong impact on a patient’s quality of life by leaving a person self-conscious and physically uncomfortable. If you have eczema, or suspect that you may have it, Dr. Holy in Phoenix has all the facts you need to know.

Eczema Actually Describes a Variety of Conditions – Most people use the term “eczema” when they’re talking about one specific condition, atopic dermatitis, which is a chronic condition that causes dry, itchy, inflamed patches of skin. However, there are actually many types of eczema. Other than atopic dermatitis, the most common types of dermatitis include:

• Contact dermatitis: a rash that develops when your skin comes into contact with an irritant or when your skin has an allergic reaction
• Neurodermatitis: a recurring itch that develops on your skin for no apparent reason, often in times of stress, and this can lead to further inflammation and irritation from scratching the itch
• Nummular dermatitis: a rash of oval-shaped sores that develop usually after a skin injury like a burn, insect bite or abrasion
• Stasis dermatitis: the skin of the lower legs swells and discolors due to poor circulation

Eczema isn’t Contagious – Researchers don’t know the exact cause of eczema, but most types appear to be a combination of genetics and environmental factors. We do know, however, that neither the condition nor the symptoms are contagious.

Eczema isn’t Curable – While there isn’t a cure to eliminate eczema, the condition eventually goes away for most people. In the meantime, there are a variety of eczema treatments that can manage the symptoms. Depending on the type and severity of your eczema, Dr. Holy will design a treatment plan which may include prescription topical medications, laser treatments, antihistamines, specialized body washes and moisturizers, antibiotics, and more.

Eczema Symptoms Often Flare Up in Response to Specific Triggers – For many types of eczema, the symptoms come and go based on certain factors in your environment. Identifying these triggers can help you minimize your symptoms, but they’re different for each person.

Eczema can be a frustrating condition because the symptoms often occur at inopportune times. The good news, though, is that with treatment from an experienced and qualified medical professional, such as dermatologist Dr. Holy, you can be on your way to a more symptom-free life. To learn more about eczema, contact The Center for Advanced Dermatology at 602-867-7546 or mddermsolutions.com.

A dermatologist is a medical doctor who specializes in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting skin, hair, nails, sweat and oil glands, and mucus membranes (inside the mouth, nose and eyelids). The extent of services provided is broad – ranging from acne, infections, genetic disorders and skin cancer to cosmetic issues such as scars, hair loss, tattoo removal and aging.

Dermatologist Training

Like any other physician, dermatologists must complete a graduate medical school program after earning an undergraduate degree. Medical schools accept students from all educational backgrounds but typically prefer applicants with strong backgrounds in science courses like biology and chemistry.

A dermatologist’s training continues after graduation from medical school. Graduates enter residencies in their chosen specialty and these residencies can vary in length. A dermatology residency typically takes 3 years to complete. Dermatology residents learn how to diagnose skin, hair and nail conditions and learn the surgical techniques specific to the field such as biopsies, excisions and cryotherapy. Dermatologists who want to further specialize can complete fellowships after their residency. Fellowships may focus on specialties like dermatopathology or advanced surgical techniques such as Mohs surgery.

Dermatologist Licensure and Certification

Each state requires physicians, including dermatologists, to obtain a license to treat patients. For the most part earning a license involves completing medical school, completing all or part of a residency and passing the United States Medical Licensing Examination.

In addition to their state medical license, most dermatologists pursue board certification. Board certification is voluntary, but it signals to patients and employers that dermatologists have met high standards for education and knowledge in their field. Dermatologists can earn certification by meeting all requirements for state licensure plus passing an examination given by the American Board of Dermatology. To maintain certification, dermatologists must complete ongoing medical education and retake the board examination every 10 years.

To learn more or to schedule a dermatology consultation with Dr. Holy in Phoenix, contact The Center for Advanced Dermatology at 602-867-7546 or mddermsolutions.com today.

Aging skin problems develop as we get older. Wrinkles and sagging skin are usually the most noticeable aging skin problems but there are many others that may be present such as:

• Age Spots or Liver Spots
• Skin tags
• Hair loss
• Excess hair (Hirsutism)
• Skin Cancer
• Sun Damage
• Varicose Veins
• Spider Veins
• Dry Skin

Most of the aging skin problems can be avoided if proper skin care is taken from a young age. Since the skin is on the outside of the body and it ends up protecting the body in so many ways, the aging process can affect it in an obvious way. Here is a look at some of the problems that can occur to the skin, what causes aging and some information on prevention and treatment.

Aging Skin Causes

It’s important to understand that a variety of different things can cause problems with the skin. There are two types of aging causes which include intrinsic aging and extrinsic aging.

Intrinsic aging causes are basically natural. Usually the body begins to age once you are in your mid 20s and some of the skin processes begin slowing a bit after you reach a certain age. Collagen production may slow down, dead skin cell shedding doesn’t occur as often and the body doesn’t produce skin cells as fast anymore. While it may take a long time for us to realize these issues are occurring, it will eventually begin showing up on the skin in the form of thinning, sagging, fine wrinkles and lines. Skin may get dry, it may lose some firmness and cheeks may appear more hollow as well.

Some aging causes occur due to external causes. These external causes may make the skin age prematurely. Gravity, sleeping on the side of your face or even repeating certain facial expressions may cause extrinsic aging to occur. Smoking and too much sun exposure can be extrinsic causes of aging as well.

Prevention

The best thing you can do is to be proactive in preventing aging skin problems from developing in the first place. Smart skin care can help you to prevent problems from occurring in the future or to slow the progression of current problems. Many things can be done to prevent the skin from aging quickly. Eating foods that include antioxidants, avoiding the rays of the sun and using quality skin care products may be able to slow or prevent many aging skin problems.

Treatment Options

While you can do your best to prevent skin problems from occurring, you can’t always prevent the signs of aging. The good news is that there are great treatment solutions available today. In Phoenix, Dr. Holy has several treatment options available depending on your unique skin. If you would like to schedule a consultation with Dr. Holy, contact The Center for Advanced Dermatology at 602-867-7546 or mddermsolutions.com today.

Hair loss, medically referred to as alopecia, is a common complaint among patients visiting the dermatologist and can be the source of significant physical and psychological stress.

Hair loss can appear in many different ways depending on the problem that’s causing it. It can come on suddenly or gradually and affect just your scalp or your whole body. Some types of hair loss are temporary, while others are permanent.

As we age our hair naturally begins to thin. For both men and women, the most common cause of hair loss is heredity. Other contributing factors may include underlying medical or hormonal problems, medications, excessive weight loss, stress, chemotherapy or radiation.

Signs and symptoms of hair loss may include:

Gradual thinning on top of head. This is the most common type of hair loss, affecting both men and women. In men, hair often begins to recede from the forehead. Women typically retain a line of hair at the forehead but experience a broadening of the part in their hair.

Circular or patchy bald spots. Some people experience smooth bald spots, often about an inch across. This type of hair loss usually affects just the scalp, but it sometimes also occurs in beards or eyebrows. In some cases your skin may become itchy or painful before the hair falls out.

Sudden loosening of hair. A physical or emotional shock can cause hair to loosen. Handfuls of hair may come out when combing or washing your hair or even after gentle tugging. This type of hair loss usually causes overall hair thinning and not bald patches.

Full-body hair loss. Some conditions and medical treatments, such as chemotherapy for cancer, can result in the loss of hair all over your body. The hair usually grows back after treatment ends.

The key to properly treating hair loss is having a board certified dermatologist who is experienced in hair loss diagnose the cause of your hair loss. At The Center for Advanced Dermatology in Phoenix, Dr. Holy will evaluate your condition and discuss a customized treatment plan created just for you.

If you have noticed hair loss, contact us at 602-867-7546 or mddermsolutions.com to schedule a consultation today.

Acne scars are one of the most frustrating aspects of acne. Severe acne can leave patients with deep marks and raised scars on the surface of the skin, and sometimes these marks can seem impossible to treat. There are various types of acne scars; they come in many shapes and colors and may be raised or depressed. Understanding the type of acne scar your skin exhibits is essential when learning ways to treat them and avoid permanent scarring.

Depressed Scars: Pitted acne scars are the most common type of scars left behind by severe acne, and these scars generally sit on top of collagen rich scar tissue. This tissue prevents the skin from repairing the deep indentation.

Boxcar Scars: Boxcar scars are characterized by an angular shape and exhibit sharp, vertical edges. Normally found on the temple or cheek, they can develop in a variety of depths. These scars may resemble those left behind after chicken pox.

Ice Pick Scars: Ice pick scars are a common consequence of inflammatory acne breakouts. These types of acne marks look deep, seeming to extend far into the skin.

Rolling Scars: Rolling scars are shallow depressions with broad bases and poorly defined borders. They occur when multiple bands of tissue develop in deeper structures of the skin’s surface and can become more noticeable with age.

Raised Acne Scars: Raised acne scars are less common than pitted scars and are often associated with inflammatory acne. They are often more obvious than depressed scars and may be more difficult to treat.

Keloid Scars: These scars form when excess collagen production causes scar tissue to form in excess, even after the wound is filled in. Collagen is produced to help heal the skin damage, but when this collagen spreads beyond the wound left behind by an acne blemish, larger scars can become raised. The severity of keloid scars varies with different skin types but are more common in patients with darker skin tones.

Hypertrophic Scars: Hypertrophic scars are noticeably raised and may have a lumpy appearance. They are very similar to keloids but tend to be smaller and fade over time and are much more common.

There are numerous treatments available to heal acne scars including laser and light therapies, subcision, dermal injections, chemical peels and more. To learn more about acne scars or if you’re interested in acne treatment in Phoenix, contact The Center for Advanced Dermatology today by calling 602-867-7546 or visiting mddermsolutions.com.

While acne is the most common skin condition in the United States, a small portion of acne sufferers develops cystic acne, the most severe form of Acne Vulgaris. This painful skin condition is characterized by large, inflamed acne lesions that form deep within the skin and result in painful, large bumps visible from the surface. Unfortunately, this ailment can be hard to treat but there are options available to help alleviate the pain and effects associated with this skin condition.

What Causes Cystic Acne?

It’s important to understand the causes of acne. When pores become blocked by excess sebum, skin cells and/or bacteria, an infection can rise up in the pore. Cystic acne is what may result from the most severe types of pore blockages. Those who develop cystic acne struggle with painful lesions under the skin. These acne blemishes are embedded deep within the epidermis, and unlike pimples and pustules, they don’t come to a head on the surface of the skin. Along with painful, inflamed acne lesions, patients with cystic acne may also exhibit numerous comedones, which can be both open or closed, referred to as blackheads and whiteheads, respectively.

A variety of factors including genetics, hormonal changes and lifestyle factors such as stress and diet can contribute to cystic acne.

Cystic Acne Scarring

Long-term cystic acne can produce permanent damage in the form of:

• small, deep pits, known as icepick scars
• larger pits
• shallow depressions in the skin
• red, raised scars

Treating Cystic Acne

The treatment of severe, cystic acne requires the help of a specialist physician and some self-care measures. Drug treatment can be effective at preventing cysts and scarring.

The first thing you should do if you find a cystic acne growth is to see a dermatologist ASAP. The faster that you attack the acne without allowing it to develop further, the better the chances of healing quickly without a scar.

If you are experiencing acne or other skin issues, contact The Center for Advanced Dermatology at 602-867-7546 or mddermsolutions.com to schedule an examination with Dr. Holy.