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. 

As we get older the one thing that may shoot down our confidence faster than feeling tired is looking tired. Ice packs to reduce puffiness, makeup to camouflage or an extra shot of espresso with your morning cup of coffee can only masquerade the bags under your eyes for so long. Once you are refreshed and have caught up on your recommended 8 hours of sleep, you may still have a tired look. Could it be you have caught up on your zzz’s and there’s a different reason your eyes are giving away your age? What causes bags under my eyes other than lack of sleep?

Sleep deprivation can cause dark circles around the eyes. Lack of sleep decreases oxygen that is available to the eyes causing blood vessels to dilate making the eyes look red or bloodshot. Beause the skin around the eyes is already thin and translucent, dark circles and puffiness are more noticeable. Finding ways to rest and relax with a good night’s sleep can be the simple solution for bags under the eyes. Still, there may be other reasons that cause bags under the eyes other than a lack of sleep. Allergies, sun exposure and sodium intake are top contributors to bags under the eyes. Seasonal or perennial allergies can affect the eyes. Taking an over-the-counter antihistamine and scheduling allergy testing with your doctor are the best ways to treat and diagnose allergies to see if they are the cause of bags under your eyes. It’s no secret that you should be using a daily sunscreen. However, many people forget the importance of applying sunscreen around the eyes. Skin discoloration and risk for skin cancer can still occur in the small, delicate area around the eyes. Consuming foods with a high amount of sodium can increase fluid retention in the body and be the reason for bloated skin around the eyes as well as other areas of the body. Simply eliminating a high intake of salty foods will help alleviate the bags under your eyes. Be sure to eliminate smoking and alcohol use as well. Not only will it provide you with better overall health, but tobacco use and excessive alcohol ages the skin. Sometimes bags under the eyes may be an indicator of an underlying health concern such as thyroid issues so consult with your doctor for a healthy lifestyle plan as well as any necessary testing to determine any ongoing health issues. 

The most common explanation for dark circles or bags under the eyes is structural. We lose subcutaneous fat as we age. In addition, muscles and tissues also weaken over time. This combination can result in dark circles or bags under the eyes. Although bags may cause psychological or emotional stress, they do not pose any harmful health concerns. Under eye bags can be treated with at-home remedies like a cool compress, eliminating some poor habits and covering with makeup. If these options do not satisfy you, a surgical option known as a lower blepharoplasty will remove or reposition the fat or skin underneath the eyes. This process is effective in addressing bags under the eyes. Other options include laser treatments, dermal filler or Botox injections. 

For more information on under eye treatments, contact THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology at 602-867-7546 or WEBSITE. 

Fun in the sun can leave you with carefree memories, peaceful tranquility in the outdoors or a boost of immunity. But spending too much time in the sun puts you at risk for skin damage. The first effects of skin damage are sunburns. Sunburns are inflammation or irritation of the skin caused by exposure to the sun. Symptoms include red, itchy, pained skin, sometimes accompanied by blisters that are often hot to the touch. Ouch. If you have developed this condition, what is the best way to deal with a sunburn?

The best course of action for a sunburn is a combination of medication and self-care. Combining soothing remedies of pain relievers and topical creams is the most effective way to treat a sunburn. If your skin can tolerate it, take quick, frequent cool baths or showers to bring down the temperature of the skin and then immediately apply a moisturizer before fully dried to help lock moisture into the skin. Use aloe vera or hydrocortisone to provide relief to the skin. Avoid petroleum jelly or any over the counter treatments that end in “caine” as they may cause further irritation to the skin. Take an oral aspirin or ibuprofen to alleviate discomfort and swelling. Drink extra water to rehydrate the body. If returning to the sun, wear tight-woven, loose-fitting, dark fabrics that do not allow in any light to protect the skin while it heals. 

The average sunburn is much like a first degree burn in that it affects the outer layer of skin. If your sunburn blisters or brings on symptoms of nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness or fatigue, contact your doctor to avoid scarring, infection or permanent skin color changes.

Ultimately the best way to deal with a sunburn is to avoid getting one. Always wear sunscreen with SPF 30 and reapply every 2 hours. Wear sun-protective clothing when possible. Stay in the shade or wear a wide-brimmed hat that provides shade. Finally, schedule an annual skin exam with THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology by calling 602-867-7546 or book online at WEBSITE. Sun damage is the fastest way to age the skin. Keep young skin looking young but avoiding long term sun exposure, wearing sunscreen, and talking with your dermatologist about ways to care for and improve the skin you are in. 

Preventative maintenance is the best way to avoid getting the dreaded and potentially life-threatening C word for the skin: skin cancer. In addition to a yearly skin exam at CLIENT NAME, we recommended seeking shade when available when outdoors, wearing sun protective clothing including a wide-brimmed hat and UV blocking sunglasses, wearing a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen of an SPF 30 or higher that protects from UVA and UVB rays and reapplying every 2 hours, avoiding tanning beds, and performing regular skin self-exams to monitor any changes in moles or additional marks, bumps or color changes to the skin.

The skin is made up of many different types of cells. Skin cancer develops when cells grow and multiply in a disorderly fashion. New skin cells form when cells grow old and die off or become damaged. When this process goes awry, a rapid growth of cells occurs; some of the collection of cells could be benign or noncancerous and some may be cancerous, in which case the cancerous cells could spread to nearby tissue or organs if not detected early. The good news is that nearly all skin cancers can be treated and cured if found early so be sure to schedule an annual exam.

Are there different types of skin cancer? The 3 most common types of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma. Basal cell carcinoma is the most common form of skin cancer accounting for nearly 80% of cases. Research indicates that prolonged sun exposure, longer life span and early detection methods account for the higher rate of basal cell carcinoma diagnosis. Basal cell is found in the outer layer of skin known as the epidermis. Signs include a flesh-colored, round growth, a pearl-like bump, a pink-colored patch of skin and a bleeding or scabbing scab that heals but returns. Squamous cell carcinoma begins in the flat cells of the epidermis and can present as a firm, red bump, a flat lesion with a crusted surface or a sore that heals and eventually reopens. Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer that can develop in an existing mole or present as a new dark spot on the skin.

Skin cancer can develop anywhere but most often affects areas exposed to the sun such as the face, arms, legs and back. For more information on how to prevent skin cancer, visit our website at WEBSITE. To schedule your skin screening with THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology, fill out our request form online or give our office a call at 602-867-7546.