“I look thinner when I’m tan.” “My teeth are whiter and brighter when I’m tan.” “My skin imperfections like varicose veins and cellulite don’t show when I’m tan.” You may have heard these comments from friends or even said them yourself. It’s true, having a tan improves the visual appearance of the body, slimming your look, emphasizing characteristics and defining muscles. But what are the drawbacks of tanning beds? Namely, skin cancer. Most skin cancers are caused by harmful ultraviolet rays either from the sun or UV tanning beds. Indoor tanning can increase the risk of developing the 2 most common types of skin cancer, squamous cell carcinoma by 58% and basal cell carcinoma by 24%. Are tanning beds safe? Ultimately, no. There is no such thing as a safe tanning bed.

Proponents of tanning beds use often tout myths such as “a base tan before vacation prevents damage from the real sun” or “year-round tanning provides essential vitamin D necessary for good health” or “tanning beds are one of the best ways to improve mood and counteract seasonal affective disorder for those who do not live in sunny climates.” As research improves over time, we now know that securing a base tan to eliminate sunburns is untrue. Science has proven that a tan is in fact just as damaging as a sunburn since any tan is an indication of damage to the skin cells. Tanning beds not only age the skin with UVA light but the wavelengths that penetrate the skin during tanning bed use are strongly linked to melanoma. In a recent study of 63 women who were diagnosed with melanoma before age 30, 97% had used tanning beds. Vitamin D is essential for the body but the argument for tanning does not compute. In fact, the real answer to the vitamin D argument is natural sun because the UVB rays from the sun interact with protein in the skin to convert it to vitamin D, tanning beds mostly emit UVA rays. Vitamin D supplements are a great alternative to sun damage. Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that is absorbed best when paired with healthy high fat foods. Exercise, time in nature, light boxes that do not harm the skin or eyes, social activities, aromatherapy, vacations and vitamin D supplementation are responsible and safe ways to combat seasonal affective disorder and improve mood.

Alternatives to tanning beds include more cost-effective options like spray tanning or sunless self-tanners that will provide you with a stunning all-over glow with the harmful UV exposure and risk of skin cancer. For more information on protecting your skin, visit WEBSITE. To have your skin assessed for any abnormalities or sun damage, call THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology at 602-867-7546. 

Dermatology covers nearly everything related to the hair, nails and skin. When you notice any abnormalities or something that concerns you that you may want checked, you must start somewhere. Knowing where to begin is the first step in how to find a trustworthy dermatologist. 

Referrals are the easiest way to find a dermatologist without having to do a lot of the leg work yourself. If you already have a trusted general practitioner, start by asking your primary care doctor for reputable suggestions on who to see for your dermatological needs. Referrals from friends and family are helpful too to find someone reputable in your area. You can always search online reviews and read patient testimonials. The next most important factor in selecting a dermatologist is to search for a doctor that has the acronym FAAD after their name. FAAD stands for Fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology and tells you that the dermatologist is board-certified. Being board certified means that a doctor has undergone countless hours and additional years of education and extensive training in their field. You can trust that the care you receive from the dermatologist comes from someone who has proven dedication to their specialty because of thoroughly tested experience.  

Once you have found a list of dermatologists who have been personally referred and are board-certified, it is time to schedule a consultation, possibly with multiple doctors, to get a feel for them personally. All the research you have accumulated will not establish trust in a doctor-patient relationship. Patients can define trust in different ways. One patient may want a dermatologist that spends time detailing the root causes of the issue and all the options in treating the issues and another patient may be most concerned about cost and what is or is not covered by insurance. Personality types may be a factor in what you need from your experience. It may also be important to you to discover what dermatologist you are seeing-if your needs are medical, cosmetic or surgical. You may require multiple treatments which means finding a doctor that will take time to listen to you and allow you to feel heard will be key in finding a trustworthy dermatologist. 

At THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology, we invite you to come in to get to know our team. We hope that you will find our dermatologists and support staff to be trustworthy in addressing your dermatology needs. For an appointment, call 602-867-7546 or schedule online at WEBSITE. 

More than 90% of skin cancers are caused by sun exposure which means that less than 10% of skin cancer derives from sources other than prolonged sun exposure and frequent sunburns. Bottom line: stay out of direct sunlight at frequent intervals and always use sun protection. Common causes of non-melanoma skin cancer include rare, inherited genetic skin disorders such as Gorlin syndrome, a history of fragile skin, use of tanning beds, fair complexion or freckles, precancerous skin conditions such as actinic keratosis and a weakened or compromised immune system. Basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma are 2 common types of non-melanoma skin cancer that usually develop after many years of sun exposure. These usually present on the face, ears, neck, hands and lower arms. Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer because it can spread to other parts of the body. The exact cause of melanoma remains unclear but exposure to ultraviolet radiation from sunlight or tanning beds increases the risk of developing melanoma. Unlike non-melanoma skin cancers, melanoma develops after intense and brief exposure to ultraviolet radiation such as sunburns. 

What is melanoma and how do I prevent skin cancer? Melanoma develops in the cells, known as melanocytes, that produce melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color. Early indicators of melanoma include new moles, lumps, marks, sores or blemishes. A general rule for determining potential skin cancer is to follow what is called the ABCDE guideline. This acronym stands for asymmetry, border, color, diameter and evolving. If moles, birthmarks or other skin marks have changed in any of these areas, it is wise to consult with a dermatologist to assess your skin with a skin cancer screening. 

While skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer, the good news is that it is the most treatable when caught in the early stages. For continuous exposure to the sun, protection of the skin is necessary to prevent skin cancer. This includes an SPF 30 or greater sunscreen applied every 2 hours and wearing of hats and protective clothing. Shading oneself whenever possible will also provide a barrier between your skin and the sun. Knowledge is power when it comes to preventing cancer. Knowing if you pose certain risk factors will help you to keep a lookout for any new changes to the skin. Melanoma risk factors include fair skin, history of sunburns, excessive UV light exposure, living near the equator or at higher elevations, many moles or unusual moles, a family history of melanoma and a weakened immune system. 

For a full skin assessment, contact THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology at 602-867-7546 or for more information visit our website at WEBSITE.

As the seasons transition, it is not uncommon to experience changes to your skin in reaction to temperature and humidity changes. Inflammation, excessive oiliness and dryness are realistic reactions to your skin adjusting to environmental conditions. In addition to fluctuations in weather, certain chemicals, hot water and underlying medical conditions can cause dry skin. Dry skin alone is not abnormal, but it is important to find out what is causing dry skin so that you are able to treat it properly. Severe or chronic dry skin can cause irritation, such as easily flaking or cracked skin that leads to sores, that makes lifestyle changes or medical treatment necessary. 

Most people can successfully treat dry skin by using a daily moisturizer that rehydrates the skin bringing it back to its previous smooth and soft state. Moisturizing products include lotions, creams, ointments, balms and oils with emollients or hyaluronic acid. Dry skin moisturizers should be fragrance and alcohol free, they should also be free of moisture attracting ingredients like glycerin, prevent itching, offer sun protection and are designed for the application to a specific area of the body. Avoiding alcohol, caffeine, sugar and salt as well as any other foods or drinks that cause dehydration is important. 

Untreated or severely dry skin can cause the skin to crack and bleed exposing the body to infection. If your dry skin is not cured with a moisturizer, you should contact a dermatologist at THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology to ask, “what do I do if I have dry skin?” Your doctor can assess your skin and determine the cause of the dry skin and how to best heal your skin. Common types of dry skin are contact dermatitis (when the skin reacts to something it touches and the skin becomes inflamed), seborrheic dermatitis (too much oil produced by the body that typically affects the scalp with a red and scaly rash), atopic dermatitis (also known as eczema that causes dry, scaly patches on the skin) or athlete’s foot. 

You can prevent dry skin by cleansing with a mild, moisturizing soap, taking warm (not hot) baths or showers, moisturizing as soon as you finish bathing, managing stress levels, minimizing sun exposure, not smoking, using a humidifier and drinking plenty of water. If you have concerns about dry skin, especially dry skin that itches non-stop and interferes with sleep or daily activities, appears infected or swollen, is painful to the touch or develops a rash, you should see your healthcare provider. Fortunately, dry skin is usually a simple fix and does not cause any long-term problems. If you have dry skin, let’s get an appointment schedule to help soothe your skin with prescription medications or solutions to make you feel good in your skin. Call 602-867-7546 or book online at WEBSITE. 

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Pesky forehead and facial fine lines usually start out as easy to camouflage with makeup. But as we age, some of us begin to feel like those lines aren’t quite as faint as they used to be and prominently display our age and stress for the world to see. At this stage you may be contemplating the pros and cons of Botox including how to ensure the natural look of your face as well as the future maintenance of beginning something you likely won’t want to stop. How do you know if you are ready for Botox?

Expression lines that refuse to fade may indicate the perfect time to start a Botox discussion. Although wrinkles add character, not everyone wants a permanent reminder of their emotions all over their face. As one of the most effective and well-known wrinkle treatments on the market, Botox treats aesthetic conditions such as fine lines, crow’s feet, forehead wrinkles and the 11 lines that form between the eyebrows as well as medical treatments for migraines, teeth grinding and excessive sweating. Botox can also be used as a preventative measure before the effects of aging set in.

Botox is the brand name for botulinum toxin, a chemical that blocks the neurotransmitter called acetylcholine causing a paralysis to the muscle in which it is injected. In small doses, Botox injections reduce the wrinkling of the skin that leaves behind lines on the skin causing a smoothness to the area. There are 5 key ways to know that you are ready for Botox: 1. You see fine lines appear on your face. 2. You want to improve facial symmetry. 3. You want to soften the jawline. 4. You want to look refreshed or rejuvenated especially before a big event. 5. You are willing to invest in regular Botox treatment. Surprising to many, age is not a barometer in which to gauge whether you are ready for Botox. A combination of the emotional effect you will receive with a wrinkle-free face and the ability to avoid repeated treatments for long term efficacy. Likewise, there are some reasons that may exclude a patient from being an ideal candidate for receiving Botox treatments. These include heavy brows (which may require an eyebrow lift versus Botox injections), super-aged skin (deeper set or static wrinkles may not respond to Botox, dermal filler, lasers or a facelift may offer a better solution), those who have a muscle-related disorder and if you have unrealistic expectations. Botox generally lasts only 3 months or so and works best on the upper face where muscles are close to the overlying skin. Those who are looking to tighten sagging skin or contour their cheeks will find other aesthetic treatments options more beneficial.

To learn more about Botox injections at THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology and all our dermatological treatment options, call our office at 602-867-7546. You can set up your appointment conveniently online as well at WEBSITE. 

One of the best things you can do for your skin is to protect it from the sun. Liberally applying sunscreen throughout the day will shield your skin from the effects of ultraviolet rays including sun damage, sun burns, premature aging and wrinkles. The biggest worry with exposure to the sun is skin cancer. At THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology our patients are proactive in asking “when should I set up a skin cancer screening?”

Skin cancer is the most common type of skin cancer in the United States with 1 in 5 Americans developing skin cancer in their lifetime. A skin cancer screening is a visual, full-body inspection by a dermatologist who can diagnose and treat all sorts of conditions and diseases of the hair, nails and skin. Screening provides an opportunity to assess the skin and look for atypical moles, unusual spots, growths, lesions and changes to the skin that may indicate a concern. Detecting cancer early can be lifesaving. More than 3 million cases of skin cancer are diagnosed every year. With such a significant portion of the population affected by skin cancer, patients should schedule a skin cancer screening once a year beginning in their 20s. Those with higher risk factors or patients who notice changes to their skin, should consider more frequent skin evaluations. Risk factors for skin cancer include having blonde or red hair, light colored eyes, fair skin that burns or freckles easily, family history of skin cancer, personal history of skin cancer, history of suspicious moles, history of sunburns, frequent tanning bed use and those who have more than 50 moles on their body.

If you are interested in a skin cancer screening at THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology, fill out a submission form here WEBSITE and a member of our team will reach out to you to schedule an appointment. For more information on how to protect your skin and for how to prepare for your skin cancer screening, call our friendly front office at 602-867-7546.

Just because a product is made of natural ingredients does not mean it belongs on your face. If you have suffered from acne, especially stubborn persistent breakouts, you probably feel like you have tried every option under the sun with little to no results. While it is true that our skin generally can improve with a healthy diet (you are what you eat, as the saying goes), searching your pantry or refrigerator for home remedies to apply topically to your face may make acne worse. And honestly, if the secret to clear skin was in our kitchen, there wouldn’t be a need to develop acne medications and skin improving treatments.

It doesn’t take much to discover from a single Internet search that the world wide web is quick to offer advice on the latest acne quick fixes that offer affordability and convenience by shopping your local produce aisle. And who doesn’t love the idea of treating their skin naturally? Learning to discern which foods are helpful and which ones are not will help you avoid worsening your acne. At home acne treatments you should stay away from include using honey, toothpaste, apple cider vinegar, coconut oil and combinations that include garlic cloves, cinnamon or lemons. Honey draws out excess water and while that may dry out red, inflamed blemishes it will likely worsen blackheads or open acne, not to mention make a sticky mess all over your face. Honey is touted as a cure for acne since it can fight and kill bacteria, but there is no evidence to show that honey alone is effective for acne. Toothpaste is designed for teeth. The chemicals in toothpaste that include lauryl sulfate, fluoride and baking soda can irritate the skin causing inflammation, which will lead to more breakouts on already sensitive skin. Apple cider vinegar is thought to be a great exfoliant due to its acidity. Unfortunately, it is too acidic and can easily strip the skin of its natural oils. People should opt instead for skin care acids specifically targeted for acne such as salicylic acid or glycolic acid. Unlike apple cider vinegar, coconut oil has a great smell and feels silky on the skin. Although it can be a soothing moisturizer it is also likely to clog pores which will lead to whiteheads and blackheads. Acne-fighting recipes that include lemons, garlic cloves or cinnamon can cause an allergic rash known as contact dermatitis that can potentially take weeks to clear up. 

If you are battling acne, steer clear of home remedies that not only offer false hope but may break you out even more or create other skin issues in addition to acne. To help improve your acne, seek the advice of a board-certified dermatologist at THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology. Our doctors can help you patch test tried and true prescription products while respecting and advocating for your right to try at home treatments that can benefit the skin. Call 602-867-7546 or book online at WEBSITE. 

The expression “you are what you eat” suggests that your current diet might be affecting your skin. Research shows that the consumption of the right nutrients can do wonders for your skin while the lack of proper nutrients can have a negative impact on skin including dryness, wrinkles and premature thinning of the skin. The skin is the largest organ in the body; a healthy diet can help to improve how you feel on the outside as well as how you feel about your appearance on the outside. 

Inflammation can occur if your diet consists of highly processed foods, fatty foods and refined carbohydrates. Sugar and dairy products can also affect skin with puffiness and acne. Dryness of the skin can be caused by a high-fat, high-sugar diet. Chronic skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema and rosacea can be exacerbated by certain food groups. Patients suffering from rosacea find that flare ups tend to clear when avoiding coffee, chocolate and red wine. Psoriasis and acne sufferers tend to find relief when they give up dairy, high-sugar foods and fatty foods. Iodine rich foods can also trigger acne. On the flip side, a well-balanced diet can promote healthy skin. While foods with high levels of saturated fat can have a negative impact on skin, healthy fats, especially those with omega-3 fatty acid, can improve skin cell health. These foods include avocados, dark chocolate, eggs, olive oil, nuts such as almonds, peanuts, and walnuts, seeds such as flaxseeds, pumpkin seeds, and sunflower seeds, and fish such as salmon, tuna, and trout. Making even small changes to your diet can help alleviate skin issues. Try eliminating one type of the foods mentioned above to see if your symptoms improve. In addition to proper nutrition, make sure you are drinking plenty of water. Dehydration can cause skin issues such as dryness, more noticeable fine lines and dull complexion. 

Navigating what to eat and how it benefits your skin can be tricky. Not all foods affect all people in the same way. If you are concerned about skin issues and want to learn more about the impact your current diet may be having on your skin, book your appointment with THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology today. Our caring providers can provide professional advice and comprehensive treatment plans to give you your best skin possible. Call 602-867-7546 or schedule online at WEBSITE.

Just about every skincare blog or article regarding protecting your skin against fine lines and wrinkles will reinforce that a healthy and effective skincare routine consists of cleansing, moisturizing and, maybe most importantly, wearing sunscreen. Layering sunscreen over your serums and moisturizers but before makeup application should be part of your daily regimen to avoid the signs of aging by safeguarding the skin. But what level of SPF should I be wearing?

The term SPF stands for sun protection factor and serves as a measurement for protection against UVB rays, the type of ultraviolet radiation that causes sunburn, skin damage and can increase the risk of skin cancer. Most dermatologists will recommend using an SPF 30 sunscreen because SPF 30 filters out 97% of UVB rays. The SPF number compares the amount of time it will take the skin to become red or noticeably affected by the sun versus the time without wearing any sunscreen. For example, if you were to correctly apply an SPF 15 sunscreen, this means it would take 15 times longer to burn than if you did not wear sunscreen. Most people under-apply their sunscreen and should focus on generously applying about one ounce for full body coverage and reapplying every 2 hours.

Sunscreens with the label “broad spectrum” indicate that the sunscreen has both UVB and UVA protection. Broad spectrum is the type of sunscreen beauty influencers and board-certified dermatologists alike will recommend since the UVA rays are responsible for causing premature aging of the skin, while redness and burning are blocked by the UVB protection. While broad spectrum can provide dual protection, increasing the number of SPF will not necessarily promise a greater defense against aging skin damage as higher SPF sunscreens usually offer greater UVB protection than UVA. 

When out in the sun, wear a broad spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30. Apply liberally and reapply every 2 hours. If possible, wear sun-protective clothing and a wide brimmed hat to shield your skin from prolonged sun exposure. Early detection with self-exams as well as a yearly skin assessment with a dermatologist at THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology will help eliminate risk factors and provide treatment before skin cancer develops or progresses. Make your appointment today by calling 602-867-7546 or booking online at WEBSITE.

Quality makeup brushes can improve the final look of your beauty routine. Makeup brushes help to build coverage by layering and blending makeup seamlessly. Effective yet gentle cleaning of your makeup brushes will ensure you are able to use them for the maximum amount of time. For face brushes such as foundation, concealer and powder, you should wash your makeup brushes once a week. It is recommended that washing makeup brushes at least every 2 weeks, especially if there is visible makeup on the brush, is a good idea for protecting the skin against harmful bacteria, including acne-causing bacteria, that may linger in the makeup brushes. Brushes can also contain dead skin cells and oils that can clog the pores and cause dull skin. Removing old makeup from the bristles of the brushes can also preserve the brush from becoming hardened; soft bristles are less irritating for the skin and assure a smoother application. 

On average, makeup brushes should be replaced every 1 to 3 years. Though initial quality and weekly cleaning play a role in maintaining the longevity of your makeup brushes, there are other factors that may signal it is time to throw out the old and replace with a new set of fresh brushes. If the brush is shedding and losing a lot of bristles, the brush will no longer serve to blend and smooth out makeup well and may be leaving behind clumps of the brush hairs. In addition to bristle shedding, if the brush handle has any cracks or is broken, it is time to throw the brush away. Over time, some makeup brushes tend to lose their original shape and thereby not work as effectively. Daily makeup wearers know that despite the best efforts to carefully wash makeup brushes, product residue and makeup stains cling to makeup brushes and when permanently tinted can affect makeup quality as well as cause breakouts. If your makeup brushes get oily and change texture even with regular cleaning, it is probably best to replace your makeup brushes.

For more information on when to replace your makeup brushes and other skincare benefits, visit THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology website at WEBSITE. For any skin concerns, schedule your appointment today by calling 602-867-7546.