Fillers Under the Eyes

It has been said that the eyes are the window to the soul. Unfortunately, sometimes the reflection of our own eyes in that window can show tired, sagging and puffy eyes. The good news is that signs of aging can be reversed with fillers under the eyes. From tired to refreshed in less than 30 minutes, under eye filler, also known as dermal filler or soft tissue filler, is a hyaluronic acid injection used to improve the appearance of hollow or discolored under-eye areas. Common brand names of this hyaluronic acid are Restylane and Juvederm. Fillers under the eyes are most effective for those who have varying degrees of sunken eyes that are casting shadows under the eyelid. These effects are usually due to age and genetics versus lifestyle options.  

Fillers under the eyes can build up the deep indentation areas and fade dark circles without the need for surgery. Tear trough fillers are generally safe and less invasive than surgery which would involve fat grafting and fat repositioning. Because the surface of skin under the eyes is a small, thin area, most patients only require one to two syringes of filler per session. Syringe costs vary but average around $1,000 each. Fillers under the eyes are not permanent but last anywhere between 6-18 months. 

Benefits of fillers under the eyes include brighter under eye area, plumper skin, more youthful look, less need for under eye concealer and makeup, and best of all, immediate results. Dermal fillers build collagen and elastin, smoothing the overall complexion and adding volume. Fillers under the eyes provide a natural effect and easily blend softy into surrounding skin while erasing the signs of fatigue. Although fillers under the eyes are generally administered in the thin layer of skin right under the eyes, combining dermal fillers can transform the appearance of the face. For example, research has shown that dermal fillers that are injected into the elevator muscle of the chin are not only effective for lifting the lower lip but can also provide a refreshing look to the cheeks and eyebrows. 

The best way to determine if fillers under the eyes or a combination of dermal fillers will best suit you, schedule a consultation with THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology. Our dermatologists will help you customize a treatment to keep your skin bright, healthy, and moisturized. Call 602-867-7546 to schedule your appointment and relieve the plaguing issues that fillers under the eyes can easily resolve. For more benefits and treatment options for radiant, nourished skin, visit us online at WEBSITE.

Posted: March 4, 2022 By:

What is Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes the rapid build-up of skin cells. Typically, skin cells grow deep in the skin and slowly rise to the surface, eventually falling off. The typical life cycle of a skin cell is one month. For patients with psoriasis, this production process may occur in just a few days. Because of this, skin cells don’t have time to fall off. This rapid, overproduction leads to the build-up of skin cells. This build-up of cells causes scaling on the skin’s surface. Inflammation and redness around the scales is a common symptom. Typical psoriatic scales are whitish-silver and develop in thick, red patches. Sometimes, these patches will crack and bleed.

Psoriasis symptoms differ from person to person and depend on the type of psoriasis. There are 5 official types of psoriasis: plaque, guttate, inverse, pustular and erythrodermic. There are also subcategories of psoriasis types, which appear differently depending on where it is located on the body. Scales typically develop on joints, such elbows and knees, although they may develop anywhere on the body including the hands, feet, neck, scalp and face. Less common types of psoriasis affect the nails, the mouth and the area around genitals.

Symptoms of plaque psoriasis, the most common form of the disease, include:

  • Red, raised, inflamed patches of skin
  • Silver-white scales or plaques on the red patches
  • Dry skin that may crack and bleed
  • Soreness around patches
  • Itching and burning sensations around patches
  • Thick, pitted nails
  • Painful, swollen joints

Not every person with psoriasis will experience all of these symptoms. Some people will experience entirely different symptoms if they have a less common type of psoriasis. 

Most people with psoriasis go through cycles of symptoms. The condition may cause severe symptoms for a few days or weeks, and then the symptoms may clear up and be almost unnoticeable. Then, in a few weeks or if made worse by a common psoriasis trigger, the condition may flare up again. Sometimes, symptoms of psoriasis disappear completely. 

Psoriasis triggers include infection (such as strep or a cold), stress, cold weather, smoking, certain medicines and many others. If you have psoriasis symptoms it is important to seek treatment from a qualified dermatologist. Dr. Holy in Phoenix can help you treat the condition based on your individual symptoms and needs. Contact THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology at 602-867-7546 or website to schedule an appointment or for more information.

Posted: January 25, 2022 By:

Dermatitis Treatments

Dermatitis treatments vary depending on the cause: 

Contact dermatitis. Treatment consists primarily of identifying the cause of the rash and then avoiding it. Sometimes, creams containing hydrocortisone or other stronger steroidal creams with or without wet dressings may help relieve redness and itching. It can take as long as 2 to 4 weeks for this type of dermatitis to clear up.

Neurodermatitis. Treatment is aimed at controlling the itching, preventing scratching and addressing underlying causes. Hydrocortisone and similar lotions and creams may help soothe your skin. You also may find that wet compresses provide relief. Because anxiety and stress can trigger neurodermatitis, antidepressants or anti-anxiety drugs may help prevent the itchiness. Also, counseling can help you learn how your emotions and behaviors can fuel, or prevent, itching and scratching.

Seborrheic dermatitis. Medicated shampoos are usually the first treatment choice. Commonly used shampoos contain tar, pyrithione zinc, salicylic acid or ketoconazole as the active ingredient. Hydrocortisone creams and lotions may soothe non-scalp seborrheic dermatitis. 

Stasis dermatitis. Treatment consists of correcting the condition that causes fluid to accumulate in your legs or ankles for extended periods. This may mean wearing elastic support hose or even having varicose vein surgery. You may also use wet dressings to soften the thickened yet fragile skin and to control infection.

Atopic dermatitis. Treatment typically consists of applying hydrocortisone-containing lotions to ease signs and symptoms. If your skin cracks open, your doctor may prescribe wet dressings with mildly astringent properties to contract your skin, reduce secretions and prevent infection. If itching is severe, your doctor may suggest you take antihistamines. Light therapy, which involves exposing your skin to controlled amounts of natural or artificial light, also may help prevent recurrences.

Perioral dermatitis. Treatment for this condition is usually with the oral antibiotic tetracycline. You may need to continue this treatment for several months to prevent a recurrence. Your doctor may prescribe a very mild corticosteroid cream in the initial phase of treatment to reduce signs and symptoms of perioral dermatitis. When stronger corticosteroids are used, the condition may return temporarily and even worsen when the medication is stopped. 

For all types of dermatitis, occasional use of over-the-counter antihistamines can reduce itching. If you have a form of dermatitis and would like more information about treatment options, contact THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology at 602-867-7546 or website today. 

Posted: January 18, 2022 By:

Silk Peel Microdermabrasion Side Effects

With so many types of facial rejuvenation treatments available, deciding on the right one may come down to the list of side effects. If you are looking to eliminate blemishes, erase wrinkles or address hyperpigmentation without any major side effects, Silk Peel Microdermabrasion, also called Silk Peel Dermalinfusion, may be right for you. Although any cosmetic procedure may have associated risks, this procedure removes the epidermis in a non-invasive manner without major side effects.

Silk Peel and Microdermabrasion both address wrinkles and fine lines, hyperpigmentation or discoloration, dry or dehydrated skin, rough skin and acne blemishes. The main differences between traditional Microdermabrasion and Silk Peel are the use of crystals in one and the addition of serums in the other.

Microdermabrasion uses tiny, non-allergenic crystals to remove the outer layer of dead skin. During the procedure, a special hand-held device is used to blast aluminum oxide crystals on to the skin and then vacuum up dead skin cells, dirt and used crystals. Because of the abrasive nature of the crystals, skin is often left red and sensitive as the crystals provide deep exfoliation while stripping away the top layer of the skin. Other side effects of microdermabrasion include the inability to reach surfaces of the skin such as close to the eyes as well as crystals left behind that could not be suctioned as it is sometimes difficult to remove them all. 

The Silk Peel Dermalinfusion facial is an advance form of microdermabrasion that provides hydration and nutrients while exfoliating the skin. The Silk Peel suctions away dead skin cells while applying customized serums to treat specific skin conditions. Silk Peel uses a gentle vacuum with a diamond shaped tip that opens the pores while removing the outer layer of skin. When the pores are open, the custom serum penetrates deep into the newly exfoliated skin. Treated areas of skin can be on the face, neck and décolleté. There are 4 types of serums used depending on the condition of the skin and the issues requiring treatment. These include a hydrating serum (for dry skin, fine lines and wrinkles), Vitamin C serum (for sun damage, fine lines and wrinkles), Lumixyl serum (for brighter complexion and melasma), and a clarity serum (for inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne and acne scars). Serums used in Silk Peel will address the specific skin needs while stimulating new skin growth to revitalize the skin’s appearance. Silk Peel Microdermabrasion typically gives twice the benefits as a standard microdermabrasion treatment in just under half an hour. 

Silk Peel Microdermabrasion side effects may include redness of the skin following the procedure, bruising, sensitivity or peeling but these should subside within a few hours. The procedure itself is painless but the exfoliating of the skin may cause a mild tightening of the skin. If you are looking to achieve an immediate radiant glow with no major side effects, call us at 602-867-7546 or visit WEBSITE to book today. Our team of skilled dermatologists at THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology will help you on your way to healthy and renewed skin.

Posted: January 11, 2022 By:

What Can A Dermatologist Do For Dark Circles?

Dark circles under the eyes are not usually cause for concern but most people feel like dark circles make them look older, tired or unhealthy. If you notice dark circles suddenly appearing under your eyes even though you are getting enough sleep, a complete physical examination from your primary doctor is recommended to rule out any medical conditions that may be causing the dark circles. Severe dehydration, malnutrition, anemia, liver disease and hypothyroidism are just a handful of potential health issues that may be causing dark circles and hollows under the eyes. By making simple changes to your diet, adding in vitamin supplements or adjusting your thyroid functioning with proper medication, your dark circles may disappear on their own. Once these are ruled out, or if you are still experiencing dark circles, your best course of action is to see a dermatologist. 

A dermatologist is experienced in diagnosing and treating a vast array of conditions that affect skin including dark circles. Natural aging affects the collagen and fat in the skin, especially the thin layer of skin near the eyes. What appear to be dark circles under your eyes may merely be shadows cast by puffy eyelids or hollows under your eyes that develop as a normal part of aging. Family history of dark circles, exhaustion, lack of sleep, allergies, eye rubbing or excessive sun exposure can also cause dark circles. 

Before your dermatologist can provide a treatment option, they will need to determine the cause of the dark circles. Often, there are 3 contributing factors: visible blood vessels, excess pigment and hollowness due to a deep tear trough. There is a simple way to determine which of these factors may be affecting you. If by applying pressure to the circle or shadow under the eye, the darkness disappears, the cause is likely due to visible blood vessels underneath the skin. If the darkness does not disappear, the cause is likely excess pigment. If a shadow forms at the inside corner of the eye, where tears would naturally flow, the cause may be due to a deep tear trough. 

Laser therapy is a common remedy for dark circles caused by visible blood vessels. The heated energy vaporizes damaged cells and helps produce new collagen formation. Skin-lightening creams and chemicals peels are popular options for dark circles caused by excess pigmentation. Light chemical peel treatments for this include glycolic acid, retinoic acid or hydroquinone. Your dermatologist might also suggest a Jessner peel which includes a combination of salicylic acid, lactic acid and resorcinol. Filler options such as Restylane or Juvederm can provide noticeable results almost right away to take care of the deep tear trough. In extreme cases, a Blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) can be performed. Although typically a procedure used to treat droopy eyelids, this procedure can decrease the shadow cast by your eyelid, thus decreasing the appearance of dark circles. 

If you are concerned about the appearance of the skin under your eyes, contact THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology to see what a dermatologist can do for dark circles. Appointment booking is made easy by calling 602-867-7546 or visiting WEBSITE for more information.

Posted: January 4, 2022 By:

What is a Dermatologist for?

Dermatology is one of the most versatile specialties in the medical community. A dermatologist is a doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating a broad array of conditions that affect skin, hair and nails. Dermatologists can diagnose and treat over 3,000 conditions; common ones include acne, dermatitis, eczema, fungal infections, warts, nail problems, vitiligo, psoriasis, rosacea, shingles and skin cancer. Dermatologists also provide a wide range of procedures, both medical and cosmetic, including chemical peels, cosmetic injections, cryotherapy, dermabrasion, excision of lesions, hair removal or restoration, laser surgery, vein procedures, tumescent liposuction, skin grafts and flaps, biopsies, PUVA and Mohs surgery for skin cancers. 

Board-certified dermatologists undergo extensive education and training to qualify in their field. After completing a 4-year bachelor’s degree in pre-med including courses in biology, organic chemistry, physics and general chemistry, aspiring dermatologists need to take and perform well on the Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT). They must then attend a 4-year accredited medical school. Following medical school, a residency program is required with 1 year as an intern in either general surgery or internal medicine, followed by 3 years of clinical residency in dermatology. After the completion of residency, many dermatologists choose to pursue further training in sub-specialized fields such as cosmetic surgery, laser medicine, dermatopathology, phototherapy, immunodermatology or Moh’s micrographic surgery. This is done through a 1-2-year fellowship. All in all, dermatologists spend a minimum of 12 years in education before passing a state licensing exam and becoming board certified. 

The skin is the largest organ in the body and one of the most complicated. One of the main functions of the skin, and its derivatives (hair, nails, sweat and oil glands), is protection. It protects the body from external factors such as bacteria, chemicals and temperature. Routine checkups with a dermatologist can offer solutions to help protect the skin and prevent a myriad of issues including skin cancer screenings, which can be lifesaving. 

If you are looking to achieve clearer skin, have concerns about skin infections or cancers or arendebating syringe versus scalpel for any number of cosmetic procedures, THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology specializes in treating medical and cosmetic conditions of the skin. As a full-service dermatology and cosmetic practice, our board-certified physicians are here to educate patients in achieving aesthetic and dermatological goals. Get started today by calling 602-867-7546 or WEBSITE for a solution to your skin care needs.

Posted: December 25, 2021 By:

Chemical Peel for Acne

If you are one of the over 3 million Americans every year that suffer from some form of acne, you have likely considered what feels like every available option to rid your skin of blemishes. One solution for mild to moderate acne is a chemical peel. Chemical peels work by removing the top layer of skin allowing new, healthy skin to take its place. Chemical peeling uses an acid solution to strip away the skin’s outer layers in a controlled manner. This elimination to part or all of the epidermis, and in stronger chemical peels, part of the dermis, stimulates the skin’s regenerative process, including the production of collagen and elasticity. 

While chemical peels cannot remove deep scars or wrinkles or tighten the skin, they are ideal for diminishing fine lines, sun damage, hyperpigmentation, and are great solutions for acne and acne scars. 

Types of chemical peels are labeled by depth: light, medium and deep. The higher the concentration of acid and active ingredients, the stronger the peel. 

  • Light chemical peel: A light chemical peel is often referred to as a lunchtime peel because it can be performed in under an hour and lacks any recovery time. This treatment is the most subtle option for those trying chemical peels for the first time. By helping to clear the skin, a light chemical peel will kill the bacteria that can cause acne and breakouts as well as facial hair that may be clogging pores that lead to acne breakouts. A light peel generally lasts about 1-2 months after initial treatment. Light peels are best suited for acne and acne scarring as well as uneven skin tone and texture, fine lines, hyper or hypo pigmentation, and dullness. Types of superficial peels include AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acid), TCA (Trichloroacetic Acid), salicylic acid, blended acid peels and retinoids. 
  • Medium chemical peel: A medium chemical peel penetrates deeper into the dermis to exfoliate the cells. Patients can expect more noticeable results from a medium peel if they are exhibiting acne scars, fine lines and wrinkles, liver spots, skin laxity and/or actinic keratoses (rough skin patches that can lead to skin cancer). Medium peels use trichloroacetic or glycolic acid and are effective for removing damaged skin cells.
  • Deep chemical peel: Deep chemical peels provide the most noticeable and dramatic results but carry greater risk. According to https://www.plasticsurgery.org “The chemical used in a deep chemical peel, phenol, can lighten the skin that’s treated. With this kind of peel, your new skin often loses its ability tan normally. It is critical that the treated area is protected from the sun. Phenol (a deep peel agent) also can pose a special risk for people with heart disease. Be sure to tell your surgeon about any heart problems and include it in your medical history.”

Our team at THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology is ready and waiting to help your skin achieve a radiant glow. Book your appointment now at 602-867-7546 or visit our WEBSITE for more information on the best procedures to help brighten and lighten your skin.

Posted: December 18, 2021 By:

Dermabrasion Side Effects

Dermabrasion is a popular procedure for those desiring smoother skin and improvement to their appearance. Skin imperfections often include fine lines, sun damage, acne scars and uneven texture. Performed by a dermatologist or plastic surgeon, dermabrasion is considered a low-risk procedure for treating these skin conditions. Dermabrasion can be successful at treating many other issues too including liver spots, melasma, wrinkles, stretch marks, precancerous skin patches and removal of tattoos. Dermabrasion is an exfoliating and resurfacing technique that uses an abrasive rotating instrument to remove the outer layers of skin, usually on the face, that will produce new skin as it heals. 

Some minimal dermabrasion side effects include acne breakouts, loss of freckles, changes in skin tone, redness, rash, swelling and temporarily enlarged pores. Rare dermabrasion side effects include excessive scarring, also known as keloids. A keloid is a raised scar that is caused by excess collagen in the skin during healing. Keloids are quite common but are not harmful. 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. Redness and irritation are common dermabrasion side effects as well. Many patients will experience the sensation and look of a mild sunburn after the procedure. Avoiding sunlight and adding a moisturizer will help the irritation subside within one week. 

Not everyone is an ideal candidate for dermabrasion. Skin type and medical history may preclude dermabrasion from being the right option for you. Prescription acne medication use within the past 6-12 months as well as active acne or any recent facial cosmetic surgery or radiation treatment will eliminate dermabrasion as the best course of treatment. 

To get the smoother, softer skin you’ve been hoping for and to find out if dermabrasion is right for you, contact THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology at 602-867-7546 or WEBSITE for more information.

Posted: December 11, 2021 By:

Does Skin Peel After Microneedling?

Microneedling is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that’s used to improve skin via collagen production. Also known as collagen induction therapy, this treatment may help with a variety of skin issues. Microneedling is most often used on facial skin to target:

  • Acne scars
  • Age spots (also called sun spots)
  • Fine lines and wrinkles
  • Large pores
  • Other types of scars
  • Reduced skin elasticity
  • Uneven skin tone

Microneedling works by encouraging your skin to make more collagen. Microneedling creates a large number of tiny punctures on the skin. The idea is that pinpricks from the procedure cause slight injury to the skin and that the skin responds by making new collagen-rich tissue.

It is normal for the skin to peel after microneedling treatments within a few days. When a new layer of skin is produced, the old skin begins peeling off. The peeling is typically minimal, similar to the peeling that occurs following a mild sunburn.

Another common side effect of microneedling is minor skin irritation immediately following the procedure. You may also see redness for a few days. These reactions to the microneedling treatment are so mild that you can go back to work or your regular activities immediately following the procedure. Your skin will also be more sensitive to the sun, so sunscreen is a must.

After microneedling, your skin works fairly quickly to rejuvenate new tissue. Typically, you should see results within a couple of weeks.

To maintain the results of microneedling, you’ll need multiple sessions. During a consultation in Phoenix, Dr. Holy will advise you on the best treatment plan based on your individual goals. To schedule an appointment, contact THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology today by calling 602-867-7546 or visiting website

Posted: December 5, 2021 By:

Does PRP Grow New Hair?

Platelet-rich plasma therapy has quickly become one of the most sought-after treatments for a variety of medical, rehabilitative and cosmetic conditions. Medical professionals and celebrities alike have endorsed its efficacy as an innovative way for the body to heal by using its own natural components. PRP has become a popular choice in treatment for hair regrowth, strengthening of inactive hair follicles and scalp rejuvenation.

PRP is a three-step process: blood draw, blood processing and blood injection. PRP is derived from your own blood. After blood is drawn, it is spun in a centrifuge to isolate the PRP. The PRP is then delivered via injection to the scalp for hair growth. Platelet rich plasma initiates repair and attract stem cells to the injection site with the intent of growing new hair. Most patients require 3 treatments, with an average of about a dozen injections per treatment. A recent study shows that the average number of follicle units increased from 71 to 93 after 4 PRP treatments. For best results, consistency is key. The hair restoration process includes 3 PRP injections over 4 to size weeks with regular maintenance injections every 4-6 months.

In a 2017 study, patients affected by male-pattern baldness were given PRP injections on the right side of their head and saline injections on the left side. The results on the right side were concluded as “hair loss reduced with evidence of new hair growth. Digital image analysis showed an overall improvement in hair density and quality as hair became thicker, normal hair. An improvement in hair density, quality and thickness was noted. Our data suggests that PRP injections have a therapeutic effect on male pattern hair loss with no major side effects and high patient satisfaction overall.” 

For PRP to be successful for new hair growth, several factors need to take place. The first, finding the root cause of hair loss. Did you know that both men and women are affected by hereditary hair loss? In fact, 35 million men and 21 million women experience some form of hair loss or noticeable thinning. Many have reported significant hair loss as a negative side effect from prescribed medications, ranging from thyroid medication to weight loss supplements to cancer treatments. Eliminating medications or supplements that may be causing hair loss is key. It is also recommended to stop using any blood-thinning over the counter medications or herbal supplements the week before your appointment. Starting treatment at the early signs of hair loss is important too. For those with inflammatory skin issues or conditions that have caused scarring on the scalp, PRP would not be recommended. Men and women afflicted by androgenic alopecia, more commonly know as male or female pattern baldness, and those with recent hair shedding or loss will benefit most from PRP treatment. 

Although PRP treatments have been performed since the 1980s, there is still relatively limited clinical proof to its effectiveness because PRP specifically for hair growth is relatively new. The greatest factors for PRP success include providing treatment in conjunction with oral supplementation and topical treatments such as Rogaine, Propecia, and even LED light therapy. Combined, the success rate is about 70-90% among patients. Patients are likely to see results between 6-12 months, with some noticing improvement after just 3 months of treatment. PRP is a suitable option for most people as not everyone is a candidate for hair transplants. In general, scientific case studies have proven PRP to be effective for new hair growth and improved hair thickness. 

To determine if PRP is the right hair treatment for you, please contact THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology at 602-867-7546 or WEBSITE to schedule an in-depth analysis and examination of your scalp. Our team can provide answers to your questions and help set realistic expectations accordingly to achieve the best results.

Posted: December 5, 2021 By: