Jennifer D. Holman, MD, FAAD

Actinic Keratosis, also known as solar keratosis, is a scaly or crusty lesion on the skin that develops slowly and indicates the presence of sun damage. It is most commonly found on parts of the body frequently exposed to the sun including the bald scalp, face, ears, lips, backs of the hands or forearms, neck, and shoulders.

Actinic keratosis improves just two days after a freezing removal treatment.

Actinic keratoses are considered precancerous and can develop into a type of skin cancer called squamous cell carcinoma. In fact, some 40 to 60 percent of squamous cell skin cancers begin as untreated actinic keratoses.

Because of this, your doctor should be diligent in diagnosing, treating and monitoring actinic keratosis.

Basal Cell Carcinoma, also known as basalioma or basal cell cancer, is the most common type of skin cancer and carries the least amount of risk, though it still requires attention. If caught and treated early, basal cell carcinomas are not likely to be life-threatening, but they do have the potential to cause disfigurement of the skin tissue.

Almost one million new cases of basal cell carcinoma are diagnosed each year in the U.S., and up to 30% of Caucasians may develop basal cell carcinomas in their lifetime.

Basal cell carcinoma can be treated by removing the affected area.

Skin cancer is considered low risk when the affected cells remain clustered in a single group. Both basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma are rarely life-threatening. Though it is unlikely to spread to other parts of your body, if left untreated, basal cell carcinoma can move into nearby bone or other tissue.

Basal cell carcinoma typically begins as a small, shiny bump on the face, although it can occur on any part of the body.

Cryotherapy, or “cryosurgery,” is a simple, non-invasive procedure in which liquid nitrogen is used to freeze and destroy growths on the surface of the skin. This is an effective treatment for precancerous skin lesions (actinic keratoses), as well as other skin conditions such as warts, skin tags and moles.

Applying liquid nitrogen to skin lesions allows dermatologists to target the damaged skin cells and destroy them at the cellular level. After freezing, the affected area may blister and scab over, and should heal within three to six weeks.

Our dermatology team uses cryosurgery to treat a wide range of conditions. It offers a number of advantages: Cryotherapy is a simple, affordable outpatient procedure, the discomfort level is minimal, and there is a low risk of infection.

In cryotherapy treatment, liquid nitrogen is applied to the skin to freeze and destroy the affected tissue.

Melanoma, the deadliest of skin cancers, only accounts for about 4 percent of all skin cancer cases, but causes about 79 percent of skin cancer deaths.

Melanoma is a cancer of the skin that begins in the melanocytes, which are the cells that produce the pigment melanin. It is the leading cause of cancer death in women 25 to 30 years old and the second leading cause of cancer death in women 30 to 35 years old.

In some cases, melanoma occurs in melanocytes throughout the body, even if those parts have never been exposed to the sun.

Skin cancer is a common concern in the U.S.  Estimates reported by the American Academy of Dermatology suggest one in five people in the U.S. will develop some form of skin cancer. Merkel cell carcinoma is among the rarest forms of skin cancer, wherein estimates by the Skin Cancer Foundation suggest that only one in 130,000 people in the U.S. will be diagnosed with Merkel cell carcinoma. Like melanoma, Merkel cell carcinoma is an aggressive form of skin cancer with a high mortality rate.  As with most potentially aggressive malignancies, early detection is the best way to decrease the risk of death associated with Merkel cell carcinoma. You can learn more about diagnosis and treatment options for Merkel cell carcinoma on this page.

Photo Credit: Academic Dermatology of Nevada

Merkel cell carcinoma is a rare form of skin cancer that arises from Merkel cells, cells that reside deeper in the skin and function to send ‘touch’ signals from outside the skin to the inside of the body.  The diagnosis of Merkel cell carcinoma is ultimately made by an assessment under the microscope after a skin biopsy has been performed.  Skin biopsies are interpreted by dermatopathologists, doctors who specialize in evaluating skin under the microscope.  Dermatopathologists are well equipped to make this diagnosis accurately when skin tissue is submitted in a biopsy specimen.  Unfortunately, when Merkel cells become cancerous, they also become aggressive.  Merkel cell carcinoma can metastasize (spread) quickly, making it one of the most aggressive types of cancer.  While treatment for Merkel cell carcinoma may be successful, even with treatment Merkel cell carcinoma may evade what appears to be disease remission, and recur.

Mohs surgery offers the highest cure rates for all non-melanoma skin cancers. For certain cases of the most common types of skin cancer — squamous cell carcinoma and basal cell carcinoma — the cure rate can be as high as 99 percent.

Mohs surgery is a highly specialized surgical technique used to treat non-melanoma skin cancers in which the surgeon removes all of the visible cancer, plus a small margin of the surrounding healthy tissue and examines it to ensure that all cancer cells have been removed at the time of surgery.

The Mohs surgery technique treats skin cancers by removing all of the visible cancer. Image Source: newhealthadvisor.com

During Mohs micrographic surgery — named after Dr. Frederic Mohs, who first performed it in the 1930s — cancer is removed from the skin layer by layer until all cancerous cells have been removed. This type of surgery is most commonly used for cancers that have a high risk of re-occurrence. This technique allows for complete removal of the skin cancer while minimizing the removal of surrounding healthy skin.

A rare and aggressive form of skin cancer, sebaceous carcinoma is sometimes referred to as sebaceous gland carcinoma, sebaceous gland adenocarcinoma or meibomian gland carcinoma.

Sebaceous carcinoma can develop in any sebaceous glands, which lubricate the skin, but it most often begins on or around the eyelids. If it is found and treated early, treatment is often successful. However, if sebaceous carcinoma spreads, it can be deadly.

Because sebaceous carcinoma can appear to be a benign growth such as a stye, diagnosis is often delayed, which increases the risk of death. If you notice a growth on your eyelid, it’s important to make an appointment with your dermatologist. The sooner sebaceous carcinoma is diagnosed and treated, the better the outcome.

“32-year-old cosmetologist presented with 3-month history of treatment for presumed chalazion. A) The left upper eyelid showed 2 mm of ptosis with swelling. B) Focal loss of eye lashes was appreciated (arrow).” (source: “Early Onset of Sebaceous Carcinoma” by Dr. Debashis Ghosh, creative commons license)

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the U.S. with more than 3.5 million cases diagnosed each year.

Skin cancer is the result of uncontrolled growth of abnormal skin cells that takes place when skin cells suffer DNA damage and then mutate, causing them to multiply rapidly and form malignant (cancerous) tumors. Most skin cancers develop on the visible outer layer of the skin (the epidermis), particularly on sun-exposed areas such as the face, head, hands, arms and legs. They are usually easy to detect with a skin examination, which increases the chances of early diagnosis.

There are different types of skin cancer, each named for the type of skin cell from which they originate. The most common type of skin cancer is basal cell carcinoma. Almost one million new cases of basal cell carcinoma are diagnosed each year in the U.S. Most skin cancers fall into one of three categories:

• Basal Cell Carcinoma
• Squamous Cell Carcinoma
• Melanoma

There are often warning signs that cancer is developing. The most common are pre-cancerous lesions called actinic keratoses that often develop on sun-exposed areas. These tumors replace normal surrounding tissue and generally do not spread to other areas.

Skin cancer is considered low risk when the affected cells remain clustered in a single group. Both basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma are rarely life-threatening.

Skin cancer is considered a high risk when cells have invaded surrounding tissues. The third most common skin cancer, malignant melanoma, can be life-threatening if not diagnosed and treated early.

If skin cancer is detected before it has spread to surrounding tissues, the chances of a complete recovery and cure are excellent. High-risk forms of cancer like melanoma require more aggressive treatments.

Suspicious moles should be watched closely, as they might indicate a cancerous growth.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma is a common form of skin cancer that develops in the squamous cells that make up the outer layer of the skin. Although it is usually not life-threatening, it can be aggressive in some cases.

If left untreated, squamous cell carcinoma can grow large or spread to other parts of your body, causing serious complications.

Your dermatologist will be able to examine your skin for signs of squamous cell carcinoma.

AviClear acne treatment is an innovative laser dermatology technology. It offers a unique option to clear up mild to severe acne breakouts. In just a few visits, this conservative treatment delivers long-term results for better looking and feeling skin. If you’re interested in AviClear laser acne treatment, you can learn more about it on this page. You can also schedule an appointment with one of our skilled, board-certified dermatologists at a local U.S. Dermatology Partners practice. To get started, take a moment to complete our online scheduling request form. Once our local dermatology team hears from you, they’ll reach out to answer your questions and schedule a visit for you with a dermatologist who can help you with all of your skincare needs.

If you’ve noticed new skin growths, lumps, or bumps, chances are you’re dealing with a lesion. But, to know whether or not the lesion is benign, you’ll need to consult with a professional. At U.S. Dermatology Partners, our skilled dermatologists can partner with you to determine the type of lesion and help you decide if treatment is necessary for your condition. To get started, simply fill out our online scheduling request form, and a U.S. Dermatology Partners team member will be in touch to finalize the details of your visit.

What Are Benign Lesions?

Benign lesion is an umbrella term that may reference any number of non-cancerous lesions of the skin. These lesions may develop on any part of the body with soft tissue. They are classified (named) according to their specific sets of features, where they develop, and other characteristics. Determining if a lesion is non-cancerous requires an accurate diagnosis from a dermatologist.

Cold sores, which are also called fever blisters, are groups of blisters that appear on the lip and around the mouth. The blisters may break open and leak a clear fluid and then scab over. They may take up to two weeks to heal. They are caused by the herpes (HSV) virus.

Cold sores can be uncomfortable and embarrassing.

Cysts are pockets of tissue (sacs) that may become filled with pus, fluids, skin cells, and even air.

They are fairly common on the skin and can appear anywhere on the body. Cysts may feel like a pea under the surface of the skin, but without removal, they can grow significantly larger over time. In most cases, cysts are not painful, and they grow slowly. There are different types of cysts as we’ll discuss in the next section, and the vast majority of these skin growths are benign (not cancerous). Not all cysts will require treatment, but it is vitally important to have any lump under the skin evaluated and diagnosed by a board-certified dermatologist because some soft tissue malignancies (growths that are cancerous) can present like a cyst. Before recommending removal or other cyst treatments, your dermatologist will examine the growth to determine whether it is likely to cause you pain, become infected, or otherwise lead to skin health issues.

Skin cysts, which can appear anywhere on the body, are usually painless and grow slowly.

Epidermoid cysts are the most common type of cyst. They are normally benign and do not typically cause any serious health concerns. However, if epidermoid cysts are in an unfortunate spot or they’re painful, infected, or inflamed, your dermatologist, at U.S. Dermatology Partners, may recommend treatment. You can learn more about epidermoid cysts on this page or by getting in touch to schedule a visit. You can get started by completing our simple online scheduling form whenever you’re ready.

You might ask, what does hair loss have to do with skin?

Hair is actually a protein filament that grows from follicles deep in the skin up through the top layer of your skin. Your hair helps to regulate body temperature and also serves to protect your scalp. Almost everyone experiences some degree of hair loss at some point in life.

Hyperhidrosis, often referred to as excessive sweating, occurs when people experience disproportionate and/or unnecessary sweat production. While sweating is a natural function of the body’s systems to keep itself cool and maintain the best temperature, sweating too much or sweating that is not necessary to cool the body can create many difficulties that impact your overall health and wellbeing. Generalized hyperhidrosis may affect the whole body. Others have localized cases of excessive sweating that impact only certain areas. Specifically, there are three main types of localized hyperhidrosis: axillary (impacting the underarms), palmar (impacting the palms), and plantar (impacting the feet). If you experience general or localized excessive sweating at least once per week, you should talk to a dermatologist about a treatment plan.

There are three main types of localized hyperhidrosis: axillary (impacting the underarms), palmar (impacting the palms), and plantar (impacting the feet).

Lipomas: Understanding & Addressing Benign Fatty Growths

A lipoma is a benign fatty growth, most often located in the deep aspect of the skin (subcutaneous tissue).  These growths arise from the normal fat cells in our subcutaneous tissue and are benign (non-cancerous).  However, there is a very rare form of cancer called liposarcoma, which is a malignant growth from these fat cells.  Lipomas are relatively common, impacting about 1% of people.  However, researchers suspect that lipoma incidence is significantly underreported.

Melasma is a fairly common skin condition that creates the appearance of brown to gray-brown patches of skin, usually on the face. It can also occur on the neck and forearms and is the result of the body producing too much melanin, that natural substance that colors our hair, skin, and eyes.

If you’re dealing with dark spots or patches on your skin from the chronic condition melasma, the U.S. Dermatology Partners team can help you to improve the appearance of these spots and minimize the risk for future flare-ups of the condition. Read the page below to learn more or reach out to the U.S. Dermatology Partners location nearest you for more information.

Atypical moles, also known as dysplastic nevi, are unusual-looking benign (noncancerous) moles.

A dysplastic mole is one that, when viewed on a cellular level, has features unlike those of a healthy, benign mole. A benign mole will have a regular pattern of coloration and pigment, even borders, symmetry, and a tan or pink color. Dysplastic moles can be asymmetric, have indistinct borders, or contain multiple colors or very dark pigment.

Dysplastic moles are often spotted as the “ugly duckling” on a patient’s skin. Any departure from the typical mole a person’s skin makes may be dysplastic. They can appear anywhere on the body, but in most cases are found on the back, chest, buttocks, breasts, or scalp.

People with atypical moles are at a higher risk of developing melanoma.

Photodynamic Therapy, often referred to simply as PDT, is a medical treatment that uses photosensitizing agents and light exposure to treat a range of conditions, including skin cancers, acne, and actinic keratosis (“pre-cancers”). You can learn more about photodynamic therapy on this page, and the U.S. Dermatology Partners team would love to hear from you if you’re interested in scheduling a consultation to discuss photodynamic therapy.  Simply use our online request form to schedule a consultation visit at the U.S. Dermatology Partners office closest to you.

Image Source: MedicineNet.com

Rosacea is a fairly common skin condition that causes redness in your face. In some cases, it may also produce small, red, pus-filled bumps. Typically these signs and symptoms may flare up for a period of weeks to months and then diminish for a while.

Rosacea may sometimes be mistaken for acne, an allergic reaction or other skin problems. It is believed to be caused by a combination of hereditary and environmental factors.

Learn more: 4 Types of Rosacea

Rosacea causes redness on the face.

Sebaceous hyperplasia is a benign bump on the skin that forms as a result of over-productive oil glands. When oil glands are damaged, they can become enlarged and clogged, leading to this condition. It is primarily a cosmetic concern rather than a medical problem.

Sebaceous hyperplasia is a benign bump on the skin that forms as a result of over-productive oil glands.

Seborrheic keratosis is one of the most common noncancerous skin growths found in older adults. It most commonly appears as a brown, black or light tan growth on the face, chest, shoulders or back. Although they are not cancerous, they can look like skin cancer.

Seborrheic keratosis is also known as seborrheic verruca or a senile wart.

The sun can age and burn your skin, and it can also cause damage on the cellular level, leading to skin cancer. The good news is, the U.S. Dermatology Partners team can help you formulate a plan to prevent sun damage and repair the effects of the sun’s UV rays so that you can go out and enjoy a sunny day. Learn more on this page or contact U.S. Dermatology Partners to schedule an appointment with us.

Individuals who are prone to sunburn are thought to be genetically predisposed to skin cancer. Risk is also increased when exposure to UV rays is excessive. Sunscreen helps prevent the damaging effects of ultraviolet radiation, including skin aging and skin cancer like melanoma and squamous cell carcinoma.

Sunscreens are rated and labeled with a sun protection factor (SPF) that measures the fraction of sunburn-producing UV rays that reach the skin. The higher the SPF, the greater the protection.

Sunscreen is a topical product that is used to reflect or absorb some of the ultraviolet rays from the sun.

Vitiligo is an autoimmune disease in which white patches of skin appear on different areas of the body. This happens when melanocytes, the cells that make pigment in the skin, are destroyed. In addition to the skin, it can affect the mucous membranes of the mouth and nose as well as the eyes. Its cause is not known.

Vitiligo causes white patches on different areas of the body.

Laser hair removal is one of the most popular cosmetic treatments offered today. This procedure saves patients countless hours of uncomfortable plucking, tweezing, waxing, and shaving by offering a longer-lasting hair removal option. While lasers have been used for decades to remove unwanted hair, science, and technology continue to progress and develop new and innovative lasers and application methods that improve the treatment process and results. One of the most recent laser hair removal innovations is the Bare HR laser hair removal system. This system boasts some of the fastest treatment times possible with application for all skin types, tones, and areas. Bare HR is truly revolutionizing the way dermatologists offer laser hair removal.

Birthmarks are common, benign skin conditions, and for the most part, their only negative effect is to mar the cosmetics appearance of the skin. If you or your child have a birthmark that causes you concern, a dermatologist can examine it to ensure it isn’t a more serious skin condition and provide treatment to remove or diminish the appearance of the birthmark. On this page, you can learn more about the different types of birthmarks and the available treatment options.

Body Contouring is a non-surgical way of reducing fat. Today there are many different technologies on the market that use technologies like ultra-low temperatures to freeze fat (see CoolSculpting, TruSculpt iD, CoolTone, or SculpSure for more details) or ultrasonic waves and radio frequencies to melt fat.

Body contouring can be done on many areas of the body, including the abdomen, waist, and arms and legs.

Botox, the commercial brand name for botulinum toxin (BTX), is an injectable cosmetic dermatology treatment that reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles on the face.

Unlike injectable wrinkle fillers, which work by filling a crease in your skin with another substance, Botox actually relaxes targeted muscles to reduce the look of lines in the face. This results in smoother skin with a more youthful appearance.

Each Botox injection relaxes key facial areas by temporarily paralyzing specific muscles. This temporarily removes wrinkles and improves the look of laugh and frown lines, skin bands on the neck, crow’s feet, forehead creases and more.

Botox is a quick procedure that is done in just minutes in your doctor’s office.

Although it was originally developed to treat eye muscle disorders, Botox has become popular cosmetically and this is now its primary use. In fact, Botox injections are now the most common cosmetic treatment in the U.S., with 6.3 million procedures done in 2013. Because Botox inhibits the release of certain neurotransmitters, it is also sometimes used to treat chronic migraines.

Broad Band Light Photofacial is the newest technology in IPL treatments (also called BBL for short). This revolutionary innovation uses advanced dual-lamp technology to correct homely skin conditions such as acne, rosacea and sun damage. The BBL Photofacial technology penetrates the top of the skin down through the layers deep beneath the surface, which cannot be reached by a topical product alone.

When it comes to dermatological treatments that will help people reclaim a youthful glow, create an even skin tone, and minimize the appearance of scars, chemical peels offer a conservative solution that addresses all of these concerns. Chemical peels are versatile treatments that help to improve the health and appearance of the skin, and just about every patient could benefit from the procedure. If you’re interested in learning more, continue reading below or get in touch with a U.S. Dermatology Partners location near you to schedule your visit.

Chemical Peels are treatments that can improve the skin’s appearance by peeling off an old layer of skin to reveal the healthy new skin below. The ingredient used in the chemical peel solution makes the skin redden, and when the skin peels off, the skin below it is smoother, healthier, and less wrinkled.

CoolSculpting is a safe, effective and non-surgical way to get rid of fat.  It is a form of body contouring that uses extremely low temperatures to freeze and permanently destroy fat in problem areas. As a quick treatment with no downtime or recovery time afterward, it is an easy way to target problem areas that are resistant to diet or exercise.

While CoolTone was developed by Allergan, the makers of CoolSculpting, this treatment does not actually rely on cold to deliver results. Instead, the CoolTone device is an innovative, body sculpting technology that utilizes magnetic pulses to strengthen muscles and improve the appearance, tone, and definition of muscles. The CoolTone device is FDA-cleared for treating the abdomen, buttocks, and thighs.

The CoolTone device itself is a free-moving unit with an attached computer screen. The hand tool in the CoolTone system is used to apply magnetic impulses to the targeted areas of the body. The entire procedure is precisely monitored via the attached screen.

Looking to improve and recover your skin’s youthful appearance?

As we age, our skin naturally loses collagen and elasticity. At the same time, repetitive movements and expressions can create facial wrinkles. In addition to comprehensive medical procedures, dermatologists also provide a wide range of minimally-invasive, low impact treatments designed to address a number of aesthetic desires to help you look and feel your best.

While many conditions from unwanted hair and tattoos to wrinkles and rosacea may not be physically harmful, they can be uncomfortable and even cause emotional distress. Cosmetic dermatology offers a wide range of cosmetic surgery and non-surgical services focused on giving you the results you want without the pain, worry, and downtime.

Cosmetic dermatology focuses on aesthetic issues such as skin tone and overall appearance.

Daxxify is the latest injectable treatment approved by the FDA to improve the appearance of frown lines. On average, people maintained the results of Daxxify for six months with some seeing improvement for up to nine months after treatment, making it one of the longest-lasting neurotoxin injectable treatments available. If you’re interested in this innovative and effective new treatment, the skilled, board-certified dermatologists at U.S. Dermatology Partners are happy to discuss your treatment options during a consultation visit. You can also learn more about what Daxxify is, when it’s recommended, the benefits of this treatment option, and more on this page.

Loss of facial fullness and volume is one of the many age-related changes that people want to address with their dermatologist. From store-bought topical treatments to advanced dermatologic and surgical procedures, there are numerous cosmetic dermatology treatments available to help restore youthful volume. However, dermal and soft tissue fillers are often the most conservative and impactful solutions to restore volume without undergoing more invasive treatments. There are many different types of dermal and soft tissue fillers, and each one is formulated to address a specific area or issue related to volume loss. You can learn more on this page.

At U.S. Dermatology Partners we offer premier dermatology services for patients of all ages. Book your appointment today to find the best facial filler treatment for you and your skin, using our simple, online scheduling request form.

The procedure for dermal fillers can usually be done in less than an hour.

Dysport is a prescription injection used for the temporary improvement in severe frown lines between the eyebrows. As the muscles relax and prevent contractions, wrinkles in and around the brow and frown area will disappear.

Dysport, also known as Reloxin, is made from a neurotoxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum; it is the same neurotoxin used in BOTOX Cosmetic.

Erbium laser resurfacing is a procedure that uses advanced laser technology to remove the outer layers of skin, revealing new, refreshed skin cells below. This can be used to help smooth the texture of the skin and create an even skin tone. In addition to removing the outer layers of skin, erbium laser resurfacing also stimulates the production of collagen and elastin, which give skin youthful fullness. This procedure is similar to procedures like chemical peels or dermabrasion used to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, hypo or hyperpigmentation, and scarring. Erbium lasers allow for a range of treatment depths to address a wide variety of cosmetic concerns. A combination or sequence of laser treatments may be used to deliver the desired results over the course of several visits.

While there are many lasers available to improve the appearance of the skin, erbium lasers are often relied upon for their precision. Because of the greater amount of depth control built into most erbium laser treatment systems, smaller areas can be targeted, and these lasers can be used safely on sensitive areas like the face, neck, hands, or chest. Because of the treatment precision, the dermatologist is able to minimize posttreatment discomfort and recovery time compared with CO2 laser treatments and other laser resurfacing options.

When people hear “facial,” they may think of a trip to the spa. While these treatments do feel refreshing, they also offer numerous dermatologic benefits for healthy skin. However, many medi-spas and other practitioners who provide facials don’t have the proper training to make the necessary personalized adjustments to meet individual needs and address specific skin health concerns. If you’re looking for an indulgent and relaxing professional option, consider scheduling a facial treatment at U.S. Dermatology Partners.

Deep cleansing facials can be as relaxing as they are effective.

Life is tough on skin. From sun damage, wrinkles, and scars to chronic skin conditions like acne,  the signs of daily wear are likely written right on your skin. Dermatologists provide a range of treatments to address the flaws in your skin’s appearance, including laser skin resurfacing, so you no longer have to show your years. HALO laser resurfacing improves the tone and texture of the skin, diminishes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and increases the production of collagen and elastin to promote long-term improvement for smooth, youthful-looking skin.

HALO laser resurfacing is an innovative treatment option that uses a hybrid fractional laser that combines both ablative and non-ablative lasers. Ablative lasers remove the top layer of skin, and they deliver a more significant change in the skin’s appearance. Ablative laser treatment is often recommended to address moderate to deep wrinkles, scars, and inconsistency in skin tone. Non-ablative lasers are directed at heating the underlying layers of skin to remove the damaged skin cells and jump-start the production of collagen. These laser resurfacing treatments are typically recommended to create an even skin tone and texture. HALO is the only laser resurfacing system that combines both ablative and non-ablative lasers to deliver exceptional results with minimal discomfort and downtime for patients. The unique HALO Laser system allows dermatologists to provide precise laser skin resurfacing and safe, consistent results. Other types of lasers require as many as six treatment visits before patients achieve the desired results, but HALO treatment is usually completed in just one to two visits.

You may be familiar with hormone replacement therapy for postmenopausal women, but did you know this isn’t the only use for replacement? Today, we offer hormone replacement therapy with a variety of innovative treatment administration methods to address a range of health concerns for both men and women.

As you might guess based on the name, hormone replacement therapy is a treatment that replaces hormones when the body, for any reason, fails to produce them at adequate levels. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can be used to replace most types of hormones, but progesterone, testosterone, and estrogen therapy are the most common. Patients can receive HRT in a variety of application methods, including pills, creams, troches, gels, injections, and pellets.

A HydraFacial treatment, similar to microdermabrasion, is designed to refresh and rejuvenate your skin without downtime or irritation after the procedure. HydraFacials provide instant results and leave your skin looking healthier and younger. The three-step process begins by cleansing skin, then exfoliating, before finishing with a targeted “booster” serum designed to address your specific skin conditions and concerns while hydrating the skin.

Rather than using abrasive exfoliants, as is the case with microdermabrasion, the entire HydraFacial process relies on the unique tool that simultaneously draws dead skin cells, oils, toxins, and other buildup out of the skin while applying nutrient-rich and soothing products like hyaluronic acids, antioxidants, peptides, and other restorative products. This increases the efficacy of skincare products by introducing them to skin without dead skin cells or clogged pores presenting obstacles that prevent these treatments from being completely effective. In addition to the basic HydraFacial process, your dermatologist can also customize your treatment plan to include added procedures like dermal fillers, neurotoxin injections, and other cosmetic solutions.

HydraFacials offer numerous benefits, including:

• Loosening and removing dead skin cells
• Clearing pores
• Delivering a brighter skin tone
• Offering a low-intensity, gentle exfoliation solution
• Promoting skin’s collagen and elastin production
• Generating healthy cell turnover
• Reducing the number of flare-ups and breakouts related to common skin conditions
• Maintaining a more youthful appearance through increased fullness and elasticity
• Diminishing the size of enlarged pores
• Lightening dark spots on the skin
• Creating a personalized facial treatment that is tailored to the individual’s skin care needs

Jeuveau (pronounced Jū vō) is a new way of tackling frown lines between the eyebrows that tell the stories of your years of smiling, squinting, concentrating, and yes, even frowning. The story of our lives may be written on our faces in the form of fine lines and wrinkles, but it doesn’t have to stay that way thanks to Jeuveau. If you’re ready to look and feel your very best, it’s time to sit down for a consultation with one of our knowledgeable dermatology professionals. Our teams are dedicated to offering the latest and most effective treatment options for any dermatological need to ensure your skin’s health and vitality for life.

Kybella is an injected treatment that targets fat stores below the chin (double chin). It is one of the best available, non-surgical treatments for double chin, and the knowledgeable dermatologists at U.S. Dermatology Partners are proud to offer this minimally invasive cosmetic dermatology option for our patients who are interested in improving the appearance of their jaw and facial structure without undergoing unnecessarily invasive surgical interventions. If you’re interested in learning more about Kybella, please take a few moments to fill out our appointment request form to schedule a consultation. One of our team members at the office nearest you will be in touch to discuss the details of your visit.

Laser rosacea therapy is a way to treat a rosacea complexion. One of the most common and effective treatments is the pulsed dye laser (PDL), which targets visible blood vessels and can reduce redness and flushing by destroying the lining of the inflamed blood vessels.

Rosacea on facial skin is treatable with laser rosacea therapy.

Laser skin resurfacing is a treatment used to reduce facial wrinkles and skin conditions including acne, scars, warts, enlarged glands on the nose and more.

The process vaporizes the upper layers of skin, which creates a wound that encourages the body to produce new collagen. The collagen and elastic fibers tighten as they heal, and the tightened skin eliminates wrinkles as it pulls together.

Laser skin resurfacing reduces facial wrinkles and treats skin conditions.

Laser treatments work by using specific wavelengths of light to interact with tissue, which can positively affect pigment, blood vessels, hair follicles and moisture in the skin. The result is improved skin tone and texture, as well as the tightening of loose skin.

Lasers can also be tuned to very specific frequencies to perform different tasks and can even be used in surgery to allow doctors to work on a very precise area with less pain, swelling and scarring than traditional surgery.

Cosmetically, lasers can be used for skin resurfacing and to treat such things as acne, wrinkles, rosacea and more.

Laser vein reduction uses light focused on a specific area to break up broken blood vessels. This allows them to be absorbed back into the body.  It is most often used for eliminating spider veins.

Vein laser treatment breaks up broken blood vessels.

Latisse is a product designed to help grow eyelashes and has been on the market since earning FDA approval in December 2008. It is designed to help grow longer, lusher eyelashes and is available only by prescription.

Latisse eyelash enhancement helps eyelashes to grow longer and lusher.

We all want our skin to be smooth, flawless, and firm, but aging, sun exposure, acne, chronic skin conditions, and other issues can lead to rough, uneven skin tone and texture. Many people think that invasive cosmetic procedures or surgeries are the only options to improve the skin, but microneedling offers a minimally invasive solution to promote collagen production and healthy skin growth for a smoother and more youthful appearance. At U.S. Dermatology Partners, our dermatologists offer microneedling to help individuals look and feel their best without the need for more invasive procedures. When you’re ready to get started, contact the U.S. Dermatology Partners location near you to schedule your cosmetic dermatology consultation. We look forward to hearing from you.

Creating Healthy, Revitalized Skin

Over the years, dermatologists have worked to create personalized cosmetic dermatology plans, and in many cases, that included combining common treatments. One of the most often recommended combinations was for patients to combine microdermabrasion and chemical peels to receive the optimal results from both procedures. In time, this combination of treatments has become its own unique cosmetic dermatology service called a micropeel. To learn more about micropeel treatment from U.S. Dermatology Partners, keep reading the page below or complete our simple online request form to schedule a consultation with one of our knowledgeable cosmetic dermatologists.

Brighter, more youthful skin is achievable for those who want to turn back the clock, and for those who want to prevent signs of aging, it’s maintainable thanks to the innovative MOXI Laser treatment from U.S. Dermatology Partners. This unique laser treatment helps to prevent skin irregularities due to aging, and it can reverse damage from minor scarring, fine lines, and wrinkles. Keep reading to learn more about MOXI Laser Treatment available from the skilled dermatologists at U.S. Dermatology Partners and get started with this state-of-the-art dermatology solution today by completing our online scheduling request form.

Smooth, firm, healthy skin is something we all strive for, but aging, sun exposure, scars, and weight fluctuations can all lead to skin that looks and feels loose and saggy. If you’re unhappy with the appearance of loose skin but you’re not ready to undergo invasive surgical lifts, PlasmaMD treatment from U.S. Dermatology Partners may be a better solution to meet your needs. If you’re interested in learning more about this innovative fibroblast skin tightening technology, don’t hesitate to get in touch with a U.S. Dermatology Partners location near you.

What Is PlasmaMD?

PlasmaMD is a cosmetic dermatology treatment device that utilizes plasma energy to reduce the appearance of imperfections on the surface of the skin as well as tightening and generally rejuvenating skin’s health and appearance. It is the only U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) cleared, minimally-invasive treatment that can safely target all areas of the body, even the very sensitive skin around the eyes, while still producing dramatic, long-lasting changes. After your skin heals following the initial procedure, you’ll see immediate improvement, but one of the most impressive things about PlasmaMD treatment is that it promotes the natural production of collagen and elastin, which leads to long-term improvement in the appearance and firmness of the skin. The skin tightening results of PlasmaMD have been compared to surgical skin rejuvenation treatments like neck lifts and facelifts, but the procedure is significantly more comfortable with less downtime.

Platelet-rich plasma therapy, or PRP, is a non-surgical method of skin rejuvenation that uses your own blood to improve the appearance of facial tissue.

Recent research has shown that PRP is also effective at treating alopecia.

It’s no secret that skin peels are a popular cosmetic dermatology solution to improve the skin’s general health and appearance, but the itchy, dry, peeling skin that occurs in the aftermath is less than ideal. Enter PRX Derm Perfexion, formerly WiQO PRX-T33 (also known as CALM Glow). This innovative treatment offers the beautiful results possible with chemical skin peels without the peel. You can learn more about PRX Derm Perfexion treatment on this page or by scheduling a consultation with a U.S. Dermatology Partners location in your area.

At U.S. Dermatology Partners, our board-certified dermatologists utilize a range of treatment options to help our clients achieve healthier, more beautiful skin. Among these are dermal fillers, a great option to improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging skin. There are many different dermal fillers available, and each has its own, unique advantages. RADIESSE dermal filler injections from U.S. Dermatology Partners are an innovative treatment option. Due to the long-lasting results, RADIESSE has quickly become one of the most popular filler options available. You can learn more on this page, and don’t hesitate to call the U.S. Dermatology Partners team near your home or office to schedule a cosmetic dermatology consultation. Book your appointment today to find the best cosmetic dermatology treatment for you and your skin.

RADIESSE is an injectable dermal filler used to plump the skin. When age or scarring causes fine lines, wrinkles, or sagging, RADIESSE dermal fillers can be injected below the skin to restore volume and smooth, youthful fullness. Each type of dermal filler is uniquely formulated to address specific concerns. RADIESSE’s formula uses a water-based gel with calcium-based microspheres to recreate lost volume, with non-toxic and non-allergenic ingredients. Because the components of RADIESSE’s formula are very similar to naturally-occurring minerals, people are much less likely to experience an allergic response. Over time, the body absorbs the filler material, but unlike traditional dermal fillers that need to be immediately readministered to maintain the desired results after they’re absorbed, RADIESSE dermal filler treatment is also designed to spark the production of your body’s natural collagen, meaning you’ll retain your improved appearance for even longer before you need retreatment.

While most people select RADIESSE for use improving the appearance of the face, specifically the skin around the nose and mouth, it is also used to restore volume on the backs of hands, and it can sometimes be administered as an alternative to implant surgery in the nose, cheeks, or chin.

Restylane is an injectable dermal filler gel made from hyaluronic acid to produce volume and fullness in the skin. This reduces the appearance of wrinkles and can also create fullness in the lips.

• Restylane – this is the original Restylane product. This versatile dermal filler can be used to add volume to any pits and grooves in the skin. The original Restylane product is recommended for improving the appearance of nasolabial folds, the deep grooves and wrinkles around the nose. It can also be used for lip enhancement.
• Restylane Silk – this innovative hyaluronic acid filler material is specially formulated to address fine lines around the mouth as well as creating smoother, plumper lips. It is the first FDA approved product specifically designed to help you achieve the perfect pout.
• Restylane Lyft – as we age, natural fat cells are depleted, and the production of collagen and elastin slows. This leads to loose skin, wrinkles, and volume loss in the hands and face. Restylane Lyft is designed to replace volume and firmness in both the hands and the cheeks.
• Restylane Refyne – this is the ideal dermal filler to improve the appearance of mild to moderate laugh lines, including the nasolabial folds that appear from the nose to the corner of the mouth and marionette lines that form from the corner of the mouth to the chin. Restylane Refyne provides support for the skin, creating a smooth appearance while allowing you to maintain all of your facial expression.

Restalyne helps smooth away wrinkles and fine lines.

RHA stands for Resilient Hyaluronic Acid. RHA Collection fillers were specifically formulated to treat dynamic fine lines, wrinkles, and facial folds. In fact, RHA Collection fillers are the only FDA-approved hyaluronic acid fillers for use on dynamic facial wrinkles and folds in the skin. Dynamic wrinkles and folds develop on areas of the face that move often. This includes areas that move when individuals frown, smile, squint, laugh, and talk. The repetitive movement leads to wrinkles and creases in the skin over time. This includes those movements that are intentional, as well as the unconscious micro-movements that take place without us noticing. Many dermal fillers and neurotoxin injections, which are often recommended to address fine lines and wrinkles, may not be the best option to address dynamic wrinkles and folds in the skin. While these areas need to move as we express ourselves, other treatment options can leave them looking stiff or frozen. The RHA Collection is designed specifically to adapt to natural facial movements, allowing you to fully express yourself in the moment without lingering wrinkles and fine lines afterward. Treatment with RHA Collection fillers offers more natural results when the face is at rest, as well as in motion.

We all want healthy, beautiful skin. But scars, a natural part of the healing process, leave a lasting mark and cause some people to struggle with the negative impact on the appearance of their skin and in some cases, limitations in function or other concerns. If you’re unhappy with the appearance, texture, or health of your skin after an injury, surgery, or other damage that leads to scarring, the U.S. Dermatology Partners team can offer treatment to improve the appearance of scarring.

Sclerotherapy is an outpatient procedure performed by a board-certified dermatologist. It is used to treat varicose and spider veins in the legs. Sclerotherapy involves injecting a solution directly into the vein. The solution irritates the lining of the blood vessel, causing it to close when compression is applied.

Sculptra is an FDA-approved synthetic injectable used to correct shallow to deep facial wrinkles and folds. It is also a collagen stimulator that helps revitalize your body’s own collagen production.

Sculptra corrects deep facial wrinkles and folds.

Skin lightening is a process used for people who want to lighten certain areas of skin that are affected by such things as melasma, age spots or even freckles.

Skin lightening can help provide a smooth, even skin tone.

Microneedling is a cosmetic dermatology solution that harnesses the body’s innate ability for healing to improve the appearance of scarring (including acne scars), fine lines, and wrinkles by jump-starting the body’s self-repair process and triggering elastin and collagen production for more youthful, elastic skin. SkinPen is an innovative microneedling device that is the first to be cleared by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to improve the appearance of facial scars and wrinkles. You can learn more about SkinPen on this page or by contacting the U.S. Dermatology Partners location near your home or office to schedule a consultation visit.

Spider veins are blood vessels that are visibly enlarged and can be seen on the face as well as other areas of the body, most commonly the legs. They may also be called broken blood vessels or thread veins, and appear as hairline marks that can be red, bluish or purple. They most often appear on the nose, chin or cheeks.

Broken blood vessels occur when the skin has been damaged. They are often caused by falls or accidents that caused bruising, or by scrubbing the face too vigorously. However, spider veins also can be caused by such factors as aging, pregnancy, estrogen replacement therapy, sun damage and rosacea. In the legs, they may be caused or worsened by standing or sitting for long periods of time, obesity and constipation.

Spider veins are visibly enlarged blood vessels.

Everyone wants to see bright, open eyes when they look in the mirror, but for many adults, drooping eyelids negatively impact their appearance and leave them looking and feeling less than their best. In the past, only invasive surgical interventions could help to improve the appearance of sagging eyelids. Enter Upneeq prescription eye drops. With daily use, Upneeq eye drops lift the upper eyelid, giving patients a more lifted, smooth, and youthful look. U.S. Dermatology Partners is proud to offer Upneeq eye drops for patients looking for an alternative to eyelid surgery. You can learn more on this page or by using our online form to schedule a consultation visit.

VBeam Laser is a pulsed dye laser treatment that treats skin issues related to blood vessels. Whether you have rosacea, spider veins, or port-wine stains, a Vbeam laser is a great treatment option. The Vbeam laser treats anything that’s the color red. By zeroing in on the small inflamed or broken vessels in your skin, Vbeam laser treatments will help you have more even skin color. It has been FDA-approved and used to treat these conditions for more than 20 years.

Chemical peels are a popular cosmetic dermatology solution to improve skin texture, tone, and appearance. There are numerous types of chemical peels available, but the unique formulation of the VI Peel treatment system provides exceptional results to improve the appearance, health, and vitality of the skin. You can learn more on this page or by getting in contact with the skilled dermatologists at U.S. Dermatology Partners for a consultation visit.

When it comes to providing effective skin health analysis and setting clear expectations for the results of dermatological treatment plans, U.S. Dermatology Partners relies on a range of state-of-the-art image capture techniques and imaging software. Most recently, our offices have invested in an innovative and versatile solution, the Visia Complexion Analysis system. This unique solution combines a state-of-the-art image capture unit with software that allows us to precisely analyze and diagnose skin conditions, plan for treatments, and show the potential impact of a variety of skincare options. One of the best features of this system is that we can show patients their skin with highlighted areas and zoomed-in views right away on our in-office computer monitors. It’s a truly unique technology that is highly beneficial for patient education and effective treatment planning.

Vivace is an innovative new cosmetic dermatology solution that combines microneedling with state-of-the-art radiofrequency technology to deliver exceptional results in helping maintain skin that looks smooth and youthful. If you’re interested in learning about how Vivace reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, you’ll find some of the basic details about the Vivace treatment process on this page. When you’re ready to experience premier dermatology services with the U.S. Dermatology Partners team, you can get started today by filling out our online appointment request. We have numerous dermatology practices across Arizona, Colorado, Kansas, Maryland, Missouri, Oklahoma, Texas, and Virginia.

Whatever our age or skin type, we all want the same thing – to keep our skin looking youthful and flawless as long as possible. Despite our best efforts, wrinkles and fine lines will still develop over time. Traditional methods of minimizing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles can be uncomfortable or ineffective, but Vivace is a quick, minimally invasive solution that effectively reduces fine lines and wrinkles, allowing you to age gracefully and look and feel your best at any age.

The Vivace treatment process combines these four effective treatments to deliver exceptional results:

• Microneedling is a cosmetic dermatology treatment that harnesses the skin’s healing powers to restore a more youthful appearance. The procedure involves using a small gauge needle to create microscopic injuries to the skin. These micro-injuries jump-start the healing process, causing the skin to produce more collagen and promote faster cell turnover.
• Radiofrequency technology uses heat to stimulate the production of collagen in deeper layers of skin. This means that, as the surface-level skin cells are replaced with new, healthy cells, patients will maintain a smooth, youthful appearance longer.
• Cooling peptide masks – applied immediately following treatment to soothe skin, prevent inflammation, and improve the results of treatment.
• Deep moisturizing serum & protective balm – before you leave, a soothing serum is applied and will need to remain on the skin for at least six hours to protect the treatment area and further improve the results.

One of the most frequent complaints patients have about aging skin is the loss of the smooth, tight, and full appearance it had when they were younger. Traditional treatments to tighten skin involve surgical intervention or plumping with dermal fillers. While these solutions can be the best options in many cases, there are also situations where a less invasive or more subtle approach is required. SofWave is one of the leading non-invasive skin tightening procedures available, and we’re proud to offer this solution to U.S. Dermatology Partners patients. Keep reading to learn more about this innovative treatment option.