Skin and Cancer Associates, Florida

A private dermatology group of 80 dermatologists, nurse practitioners and physician assistants practicing at more than 30 locations in Florida.

WestDerm

The Dermatologist-Approved Guide to Summer Skin

Summertime means beaches, barbecues, and baseball, but it also means skin-wrecking salt water, sand, and (if you aren’t careful) sunburn. These can cause serious stress to a healthy complexion, but c’mon – who wants to stay inside?

The warm summer months require unique skin care strategies. All the swimming, cycling, hiking, and other outdoorsy enjoyments are great for our overall health and wellbeing, but these activities can lead to significant ultraviolet (UV) overexposure to the face and body, not to mention skin dehydration and free radical damage. Over time, these environmental stressors can lead to accelerated aging, irregular pigmentation, and even certain cancers.

It can be difficult to determine which skin care solutions will yield consistently great results. However, starting with the methods used by experienced dermatologists is a great first step! Here are tried-and-true techniques our WestDerm dermatologists not only recommend to their patients, but also use to protect their own skin.

Check the Ultraviolet Radiation Index Daily

While standard weather forecasts will help ready you for blazing temperatures, your local weather team won’t reliably alert you to the UV radiation index (UVI). The UVI measures the degree of UV radi- ation on a given day, which is unrelated to the temperature.

Knowing the UV radiation levels in your area can help you apply the optimal level of sun protection for your outdoor activities. J. Ryan Jackson, D.O., recommends checking the UVI daily using an easy-to-access smartphone application. “I appreciate the UV index found on my weather app,” says Dr. Jackson. “This index assists me to make informed decisions about how much time I should spend in the sun and what types of sun protection I should include with my daily activities.”

Wear Sunscreen Religiously

Great summer skin starts with an effective sunblock. Mitchel Goldman M.D., WestDerm Medical Di- rector, is an avid cyclist who takes sun protection very seriously. “The single most important thing is sunscreen, in the summer and the winter,” he says. “We should all be using [sunscreen] every day, whether it’s in our morning moisturizers or foundations.”
While sunscreen is instrumental for minimizing sun damage and age spots, it significantly reduces skin cancer risk. Even if we’re careful to apply sunscreen when we know we will spend the day out- doors, we might not be as vigilant in the car. “We don’t realize we have to wear sunscreen when we’re driving,” Dr. Goldman says. “Your back window and side windows only block 2% of the ultraviolet rays, so the sun comes right in, even with the windows closed.” The left side of the face, the left arm, and the left hand are especially vulnerable.

Wear Clothing with SPF

Although sunscreen must be reapplied periodically throughout the day, a more convenient alterna- tive for the body is sun protective clothing. “In addition to applying sunscreen, I wear sun protective clothing,” Dr. Goldman says.

Sun protective clothing is extremely effective in blocking UV radiation. A garment with an ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) of 50 can block approximately 98% of harmful rays.

Combat Sun Damage

Skin rejuvenation is critical; boosting cell turnover can help dramatically mitigate superficial sun-re- lated damage. Dr. Jackson is an advocate for using products that facilitate this phenomenon. “To reduce the severity of actinic damage I often recommend topical retinoids to the face three times weekly at night, increasing to nightly as tolerated,” he says. A great starter retinol product is West Derm Retinol Serum 3X, a gentle, antioxidant-rich serum that penetrates deep into the skin without causing irritation.
Summer activities can also cause significant dehydration due to heavy sweating and even exposure to super-drying ocean water. Topical products that enhance environmental protection and boost hy- dration are excellent for minimizing and even reversing mild sun damage. “After exercising I always apply SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic to my facial skin to further decrease ultraviolet damage,” Dr. Goldman says. This vitamin C serum is a free radical-neutralizing formula that shields the skin from oxidative stress.

Get Plenty of Antioxidants

Healthy skin can also be achieved from the inside out. Antioxidants in deep green vegetables (spin- ach, kale, collard greens, and broccoli), beets, carrots, sweet potatoes, and dark chocolate are fan- tastic for ensuring optimal cell health. They combat oxidative stress, boost collagen production, and reduce your risk of developing serious health conditions like heart disease and even cancer.
However, if your lifestyle is extremely active, you might want an antioxidant boost. “I and my cycling teammates take SunIsdin, a natural supplement that provides antioxidants to protect the skin from ultraviolet damage,” says Dr. Goldman. This daily supplement helps protect skin from photoaging (premature aging caused by continual exposure to UV radiation) and enhances elasticity, making skin less susceptible to dynamic wrinkles.

Dr. Jackson is also a big proponent of supplements and encourages his patients to enhance their anti- oxidant intake. “I often recommend Heliocare Advanced with Nicotinamide to my patients,” he says. “Heliocare Advanced with Nicotinamide helps support skin health and maintain the skin’s ability to protect against free radical damage.”
The best way to preserve the health and beauty of your skin? Regular visits to a dermatologist, of course! Our team of qualified, board-certified dermatologists offers comprehensive care for cosmetic and medical skin concerns. Whether you want your skin checked for abnormalities, would like effec- tive acne treatment, or think an Intense-Pulsed Light (IPL) Photofacial could be right for you, we are more than happy to offer a consultation.

To find a clinic near you, please visit our location page and schedule an appointment today.

4 Sunscreen Ingredients to Avoid…and Why!

Sun protection shouldn’t leave your skin vulnerable to irritation, inflammation, or acne, nor should it lead to the accumulation of synthetic chemicals in your bloodstream. Unfortunately, certain sunscreens contain ingredients that might not be optimal for your overall health.
You must apply sunscreen generously. If you plan on spending a full day outdoors, it is recommended that you reapply approximately one ounce of sunscreen to your body every few hours (more frequently when swimming). That means your body is continually exposed to the ingredients in the product.
Sunscreen Ingredients to Avoid 
The next time you’re shopping for an effective sunscreen, here are a few ingredients that might be deal-breakers, particularly if you have sensitive or acne-prone skin. 
Synthetic Ingredients 
Synthetic sunscreen ingredients are highly effective in deactivating ultraviolet (UV) rays before they cause damage to the skin. They are also used to create a more liquid, lightweight product that doesn’t leave a white cast. However, they might not be ideal for everyone. People with sensitive skin, for example, might be more likely to experience redness or inflammation from synthetic sunscreen ingredients. 
While synthetic sunscreen ingredients have not been conclusively shown to cause long-term harm, ingredients like avobenzone, homosalate, octinoxate, octisalate, and oxybenzone are stored in the body for weeks after one application. Because sunscreens must be applied and reapplied daily, some synthetic ingredients can build in the system and even become detectible in breast milk. 
Oxybenzone has been linked with hormone disruption, though not in humans. Hormone disruption occurs when chemicals mimic hormonal activity, causing the body to over or underproduce certain hormones. Moreover, if you have acne-prone skin, benzophenones could aggravate your skin and cause breakouts. 
Bug Repellants (DEET) 
Having an insect repellent in your sunscreen seems like a convenient time-saver, but it’s less-than-ideal for sun protection and overall health. When used with DEET, (N,N-Diethyl-m-toluamide), some sunscreens’ efficacy is significantly diminished – sometimes by more than 30 %. This deficiency means that you must apply sunscreen more frequently to ensure sufficient protection, effectively exposing you to greater quantities of DEET. 
Moreover, because sunscreen formulations are designed to be absorbed into the skin, other ingredients are being absorbed, too. This phenomenon might enhance the quantities of DEET you are absorbing. 
To make sure you are getting the best possible sun protection while shielding yourself from pesky pests, use a sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher. After approximately 10-15 minutes, apply a separate insect repellent of your choosing. While DEET is highly effective, oil of lemon eucalyptus has been found to provide high levels of protection, though it must be applied more frequently. 
Comedogenic Oils, Butters, and Waxes 
Acne-prone skin is especially sensitive to sunscreens containing breakout-inducing ingredients because sunscreen must be applied and reapplied thickly and throughout the day. 
Coconut oil, cocoa butter, mineral oil, beeswax, and silicones can trigger breakouts in acne-prone skin. In addition to the ingredients listed above, check your sunscreen for the most common offenders: 
  • Para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) 
  • Soybean oil 
  • Wheatgerm oil 
Fragrance 
Another no-no for people with sensitive skin: fFragrance. While fragrances are frequentlyoften used to make sometimes unpleasant sunscreen ingredients smell more inviting, the volatility of fragrance can cause irritation and allergic contact dermatitis. In fact, fragrance in cosmetics should be avoided whether you have sensitive skin or not! 
Effective, Non-Irritating Sunscreens 
Well, now that you know what to avoid, what should you use? 
Mineral sunscreens are the most effective sun protection products for people with sensitive and acne-prone skin. They are extremely gentle, and physically shield your skin from harmful UV rays. If you have oily skin, mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide offer an additional benefit: they leave a smooth, matte finish that absorbs shine. 
At our clinics and online at shop.westderm.com, we offer a comprehensive range of sun protection products designed to deliver maximum SPF while being safe for all skin types. If you’re looking for the right sunscreen for your lifestyle, here are a few extremely effective products we recommend: 
To schedule an appointment at one of our California, Nevada, or Arizona clinics, please visit our location page to find one near you. 

Ultraviolet Safety Awareness Month: Aren’t You Forgetting Something?

It’s easy to forget about some of our most vulnerable spots when we’re applying sunblock. Unfortunately, the sun never forgets to emit harmful UVA and UVB rays that can wreak havoc on our skin and eyes if we aren’t relentlessly careful. Here are a few parts of the body we are the most likely to neglect to apply sun protection.
The Scalp 
How often do you put sunblock on your scalp? If you have a full head of hair (or if you think you have a full head of hair), probably never.
Yep – your scalp needs sun protection too! While hair does shield your scalp from the sun, unless your hair is uniformly thick, you should give your scalp extra protection.
The easiest way to protect your scalp from ultraviolet (UV) rays is to wear a hat while outdoors. However, if you aren’t fond of hats, you can apply sunscreen to parts of your head where your scalp is exposed. These include:
  • The hairline 
  • The part in your hair 
  • The crown where hair might be thinner 
It’s a good idea to apply sunscreen to any part of your head where your scalp is visible. 
The Feet 
The soles of the feet have a layer of thick, callused skin that protects them from harmful UV rays, but the tops of the feet do not. If you wear sandals, flip-flops, or other shoes that expose the tops of your feet, make sure to apply a layer of sunscreen. 
The Lips 
Did you know that skin cancer can affect the lips? If you have fair skin, you are particularly vulnerable to basal cell carcinomas and squamous cell carcinomas of the lips (particularly the lower lip), so make sure your lips are protected. 
Not all lip balms offer sun protection. Make sure the brand you choose has a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher. You should also reapply your protective lip balm every hour or so, and after you eat or drink. 
The Ears 
When applying sun protection to your ears, make sure to apply it to the backs of the ears in addition to the tops, earlobes, and any other exposed areas. Wide-brimmed hats are also extremely effective. You may not know it but the third most common location for skin cancers is the ears. 
The Eyes 
The area around the eyes is extremely delicate, so it’s understandable if you’re reluctant to apply thick sunscreen near your peepers (particularly if you have sensitive eyes or wear contacts). However, most mineral-based formulas designed to be applied to the face are perfectly safe and effective – you just must be careful to keep the sunblock out of your actual eyes. If you have concerns about sunblock melting into your eyes, stick sunscreens are easy to apply and are less likely to run into your eyes. 
As for the eyes themselves, always sport a pair of shades with 100% UV protection. 
The Neck 
Just because you can’t see the back of your neck doesn’t mean the sun can’t reach it! Always apply sunblock to your entire neck – not just the part under your chin. If you do a lot of driving, make sure you pay attention to the left side of your neck, since that area gets the most direct sunlight. 
The Hands 
You’ve probably done a fair amount of hand-washing these last few years, but how often do you apply (and reapply) sunscreen to your hands? Not only does sunblock help lower your risk of developing skin cancer, it also helps prevent the development of sunspots and other signs of premature aging and skin damage. 
Regular visits to a qualified dermatologist are essential for assuring a lifetime of healthy skin. Schedule an appointment with our team today! 

What You Need to Repair, Rejuvenate, and Refresh Your Post-Sun Skin

Even if you’re vigilant about UV protection 99% of the time, one unprotected day in the sun can cause redness, irritation, and inflammation. Here’s what you need to get your post-sun skin back on track.
Summer is officially here! One day basking in the warmth of the glorious outdoors shouldn’t be a problem. Right?
Well… maybe.
Let’s be clear – sunlight is a fundamentally good thing. Exposure to sunlight is thought to influence our production of serotonin, a hormone that triggers feelings of satisfaction and calm. Sunlight also causes the body to synthesize vitamin D3, which offers immune system support and plays a role in mitigating depression. 
Unfortunately, too much sun exposure can have devastating effects on our skin, from sunburn, to premature aging, to certain cancers.
Sun protection, while important, requires vigilance. Even if we apply a generous amount of SPF 50 sunscreen 20 minutes before heading outdoors, we might not think to reapply it after a few hours, leaving us vulnerable to the uncomfortable after-effects of a day in the rays.
However, if your skin is a little sensitive at the end of the day, there are things you can do to mitigate some of the damage.
At Shop WestDerm, we offer a line of soothing products designed to repair and care for delicate skin in need of a little TLC. Here are a few products that will help you soothe and hydrate your skin after a day’s worth of rays.
Even a relatively short time in direct sunlight can lead to skin inflammation, redness, and irritation. EltaMD Skin Recovery Serum is designed to repair and enhance the skin’s barrier, the top layer of skin that protects your body from toxins – the same barrier that can become damaged after a carefree day in the sun. Noncomedogenic and free of fragrance, parabens, dyes, oils, and potential irritants, this serum is the perfect antidote to harsh sunlight and other environmental stressors. 
This specially engineered intensive antioxidant formula combines the power of science with the soothing natural wonders of highly effective botanical ingredients like calming green tea polyphenols, soothing willow bark extract, and skin-brightening vitamin C. Perfect for your after-sun care routine!
If you’re feeling the burn of your day in the sun, try this rich, luxurious, moisturizing balm designed to rejuvenate and protect delicate, sensitive, inflamed skin. With powerful hydrating and calming antioxidant ingredients like chamomile extract and shea butter, this beauty balm will help your skin stay healthy and radiant.
After a day spent frolicking in the sun, your body needs nourishment – and so does your skin! This rich, restorative cream delivers exceptional collagen support and gives your sensitive skin barrier a healthy boost of free radical-defying antioxidants.
For the ultimate beauty boost, give yourself the gift of full, soothing hydration! Our comprehensive line of antioxidant-intensive, damage-repairing products will give your tender skin the extra care it needs, day and night.
While a good aftercare program can help keep your skin healthy, the best defense against sun damage is an excellent offense. Protect your skin by scheduling regular appointments with the skin specialists at WestDerm. Schedule an appointment with our team today!

Battling Breakouts? 10 Reasons Your Acne is Getting Worse

We all have different physical characteristics – “perfect imperfections” – that give us our individual appeal and charm. Our different traits can tell a unique story, whether it’s a sprinkling of freckles, a gap between our two front teeth, or a childhood scar across an eyebrow.
And then there’s acne. 
Most of us have had to address acne at some point. Sometimes it’s just a pimple or two. Other times, it’s a cluster of painful cysts. Without a doubt, the best way to manage acne will always be the personalized care you receive from a qualified dermatologist. What you do between visits to your dermatologist matters too. Here are 10 common habits that can jeopardize even the best acne treatments. 
1. Popping your pimples. 
Popping pimples is one of the worst habits for your complexion. Not only do you risk exacerbating the problem and causing scars, but you can also introduce harmful bacteria that can lead to infections and even serious medical issues. The risk is particularly great if you pop pimples around your mouth, on your nose, and between your eyebrows. 
2. Not wearing sunscreen. 
If you struggle with acne, smearing thick, greasy sunscreen on your face every day might seem like a recipe for pore-clogging disaster. However, wearing the right sunscreen can actually help prevent acne by protecting your skin from UV damage that can aggravate your skin and make acne worse. Just make sure you use sunscreen that is appropriate for your skin type, like the ones we carry on our online shop. 
3. Failing to cleanse your face before exercise. 
We all know that we should cleanse our skin after a hard, sweaty workout. But how often do you cleanse your skin before working out? 
Exercising is fantastic for your skin. However, sweating with a dirty face can irritate your skin and clog your pores. Your skin is especially vulnerable if you routinely wear makeup (primer, foundation, blush, etc.) before hitting the gym. You don’t have to perform an entire skincare routine before your CrossFit session – just use a gentle makeup remover to get rid of the residue from makeup, oil, or dirt. After your workout, gently wash and moisturize your face. 
4. Cleansing your face too aggressively. 
Over-washing your face and using acne treatments that are too harsh will cause your skin to become irritated, dry, and more prone to breakouts. Gentle cleansing is key. 
5. Failing to change your pillowcase. 
Your pillow and pillowcase can accumulate bacteria, oils, and dirt very quickly (yuck!), so make sure to launder your pillow when necessary and change your pillowcase at least twice weekly. 
Also, use a pillowcase that isn’t rough on your skin – silk pillowcases are great because they’re non-irritating and extremely gentle, but hypoallergenic cotton and satin pillowcases are great, too. 
6. Failing to cleanse your makeup applicators. 
Makeup brushes and sponges harbor bacteria, accumulated makeup products, dirt, skin cells, oils – basically everything that causes acne. Wash your makeup applicators at least once weekly to ensure you don’t re-introduce harmful irritants to your skin. 
7. Touching your face. 
It’s hard to stop touching our faces, but our hands can spread acne-causing bacteria, leading to inflammation and breakouts. Avoid wiping or scratching your face with your bare hands; keep a tissue handy if you need to wipe away sweat or scratch your nose. 
8. Using skin-irritating hair styling products. 
While some products are great for your hair, they might not benefit your skin. Products with heavy silicones and emollients can trigger breakouts by attracting bacteria and clogging pores. If your hair serums and stylers are too effective to give up, wear your hair away from your face and don’t apply products too close to the hairline. 
9. Not washing your hats. 
If you wear sun hats, visors, ball caps, helmets, or other headgear that touches your face, wash them regularly according to the manufacturer’s directions. 
It’s also important to let your skin breathe. If you wear headgear for most of the day, remove it periodically to wipe away accumulated sweat and allow your skin to dry. Also, make sure your hat isn’t too tight; the friction can lead to – you guessed it – breakouts. 
10. Skipping visits to the dermatologist.  
If you struggle with acne, the best way to address it successfully and quickly is by having customized treatment from a dermatologist. Not only will you get to the root of the issue, but you will also save money on skincare; no more buying drugstore products on a trial-and-error basis. 
Take charge of your skin and banish blemishes once and for all! The team at our clinic offers next-generation skincare solutions that help people of all ages and skin types achieve healthy, clear, beautiful skin. Schedule your visit with us today! 

Teen Acne and How to Deal with Breakouts ðŸâ€´

If you’re a teen, then it’s likely that you’ve had acne at some point. Not only can acne be uncomfortable, but it can also be a bit embarrassing. If you’ve been struggling, know that you aren’t alone. In fact, 8 out of 10 teens have acne. Even though your friends likely struggle with acne, too, it’s still probably something you want to get a handle on right now when school is out. It’s the perfect time to get your skin prepped and ready for the new school year ahead.
 
And if you’re a parent with a child that is currently experiencing acne, read on for tips on how to help them overcome it.
 
What Causes Teen Acne?
It helps to know why you get acne, so you can also learn how to treat it. Your skin is made of thousands of little pores, and each of those pores contains oil glands. When you hit puberty, you have an increase in a hormone called androgens. The excess of this hormone causes your glands to produce too much oil and your pores to become enlarged. This is the perfect recipe for acne breakouts. 
 
What Can You Do About It?
While teen acne is incredibly common, there are some things you can do to help your skin out. Here are some quick tips for what you should do to help avoid or treat acne.
 
Choose a Mild Cleanser
It’s important to choose a mild cleanser because even though you’ll need to wash your face daily, you definitely don’t want to dry it out. Avoid scrubbing with a cloth or exfoliating brush, and instead, gently wash your face with your fingertips. You want to avoid irritating your skin. We recommend Skin and Cancer Associates and The Center for Cosmetic Enhancement Acne Clearing Cleansing Gel.
Don’t Rely On Over the Counter Medications
Over-the-counter acne medication can work for some people, but if you have a severe breakout, you’re going to need professional help. The severity of your acne will determine which types of treatment are best for you, and you may need a prescription-strength medication.
 
Don’t Skip Moisturizing
It may feel counterproductive to apply moisturizer to a face with breakouts. However, you should never skip moisturizing as your skin needs it for hydration and repair. In fact, some people break out because their skin is not properly hydrated, so make sure that you choose a moisturizer that is oil-free and non-comedogenic. These terms simply mean that the moisturizer won’t create whiteheads or blackheads that clog your pores. We recommend SkinMedica Ultra Sheet Moisturizer.
Wash Off Your Makeup
Never, ever sleep in your makeup. Doing so will only clog your pores and irritate your skin. Make an effort to go to bed with a clean face every night. 
 
Be Mindful of Your Hair Products
Sometimes people don’t realize that their hair products can also cause an oil buildup on their skin. If you use oily hair products that touch your face, then it is likely that your pores will clog. Choose products that are oil-free, especially those that may come in contact with your skin. 
 
Creating a quality skincare routine that protects you from breakouts is an excellent way to avoid breakouts as much as possible! If you have any questions, would like to schedule an appointment for yourself or for your teen, contact us today for an appointment with one of our board-certified dermatologists.

What Causes Acne? Tips on How To Treat & Prevent

All of us experience a few pesky pimples from time to time but what if your case is more severe and considered chronic acne? With June being Acne Awareness Month and 50 million Americans currently affected by the condition, we figured we could shed some light. 
Whether you’re trying to avoid the occasional zit or looking for answers on how to get your acne under control, read on to see what the main causes of it are and learn about treatment options and prevention. 
WHAT IS ACNE?
Acne is a common skin condition, in fact, it’s the most common skin problem in the country. It shows up in the form of anything from red bumps, whiteheads and blackheads, to cysts and nodules. It’s most commonly found on the face but can also appear on shoulders, back, neck, chest, and upper arms.
WHAT CAUSES IT?
According to Medical News Today, dermatologists have identified different factors that can largely impact the appearance of acne:
·     Your skin is producing too much oil: When your skin produces too much, your pores can clog up easier. If you have oily skin, you are more prone because your sebaceous glands in the skin are producing too much sebum, the oily, waxy substance that protects and hydrates the skin
·     You have too many dead skin cells building up in your pores: when dead skin cells accumulate and don’t break away from the skin regularly, they start to collect in your pores/hair follicles. These combined with the body’s natural oils (sebum) can cause the pores to clog, resulting in pimples, whiteheads and blackheads
·     The presence of a bacteria called Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes): when the clogging of your pores builds up too much, they become a breeding ground for the bacteria. This bacteria turns sebum into fatty acids that activate inflammation in nearby skin cells, causing acne.
WAYS TO TREAT & PREVENT
Many methods of treatment and prevention are available to keep acne at bay. Results can differ from person to person and depend on the acne severity level.
For mild to moderate cases of acne (a few blemishes, whiteheads, and/or blackheads), you can use simple over-the-counter medications with benzoyl peroxide, retinoids, or salicylic acid. 
For severe cases (red, swollen, often painful blemishes consisting of cysts and/or nodules), a variety of treatments can work, this includes prescription-strength topical or oral medications, antibiotics to destroy the acne-causing bacteria, and a variety of light therapies that reduce the presence of P. acne bacteria on the skin.
There are many ways to help prevent acne from popping up in the first place:
·     Wash your face twice daily: it’s important to remove excess oil and sebum from the skin by washing morning and night. Its best to use a mild cleanser to not irritate the skin.
·     Know your skin type: oily skin is the most acne-prone. Combination skin is also prone because it is a mixture of both dry and oily areas. Knowing your skin type will help you choose the right skin care products. If your skin is oily, opt for an oil-free moisturizer. 
·     Use over-the-counter acne treatments: over-the-counter creams and serums can reduce breakouts on the chin, nose, and forehead. Look for products with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide.
·     Reduce stress: stress is not the cause of acne but can certainly make it worse. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, research has shown that when you’re stressed, your body tends to produce more oil-stimulating hormones. Some things you can do to manage your stress levels are to practice yoga, meditate, or use aromatherapy.
We know how acne can impact you, regardless of age. Not only does it affect your skin, but it can also make you self-conscious about your appearance. As your community skin and acne specialists, we’re here to provide support and answer all your questions. 
One of our board-certified dermatologists can help you identify which factors or combinations of factors are causing your acne, and then put you on the appropriate treatment plan. Call us today or book your appointment HERE!

Don’t Sweat it! How You Can Overcome Hyperhidrosis

Sweating is part of being human. Whether it’s your body’s response to hot temperatures, vigorous physical activity, or nerves, sweating serves a physiological purpose. It helps regulate your body temperature in hot conditions, keeps skin hydrated, and maintains your electrolyte/fluid balance. When you start sweating in response to stressful situations, it’s because your stress levels cause a rise in body temperature, leading to the activation of the sweat glands.
However, sometimes sweating occurs out of proportion to the stimuli. When you routinely soak your clothes in sweat when you aren’t hot, exercising, or stressed, it could be a sign of hyperhidrosis. 
What is hyperhidrosis?
Excessive sweating falls into two categories: primary hyperhidrosis and secondary hyperhidrosis.
Primary hyperhidrosis is excessive sweating that has no identifiable medical reason and when there are no contributing environmental factors. 
Secondary hyperhidrosis is excessive sweating that is a symptom of an underlying medical issue. For example, people experiencing menopausal hot flashes will begin to sweat heavily even if the external temperature is relatively cool. Medical disorders that can cause secondary hyperhidrosis include: 
  • Cancer 
  • Diabetes 
  • Disorders of the central nervous system 
  • Heart attack 
  • Infection 
  • Low blood sugar 
It’s critically important to undergo a screening for the above conditions if you are experiencing heavier-than-normal sweating. Addressing the contributing medical condition will likely resolve the sweating. 
What are the symptoms of hyperhidrosis? 
While hyperhidrosis is the clinical term for excessive sweating, what one person considers excessive might not be bothersome or even noticeable in another. Essentially, if sweating has caused you emotional discomfort or even to avoid social situations, you might be suffering from hyperhidrosis. 
Excessive sweating caused by hyperhidrosis typically occurs on the face, armpits, palms of the hands, and the soles of the feet. 
Who is affected by hyperhidrosis? 
Hyperhidrosis occurs in approximately 5% of the population. It is believed to have a genetic component, as the condition commonly occurs in families. Hyperhidrosis typically affects younger people between the ages of 18 and 40. 
If underlying medical conditions have been ruled out and primary hyperhidrosis has been established, there are several treatment options you can explore. 
How can a dermatologist treat hyperhidrosis? 
It is extremely important to undergo a comprehensive evaluation to ensure no unaddressed medical issues are causing your excessive perspiration. Once it has been established that there is no medical cause, you can choose from a menu of treatment options. 
Your treatment options can vary depending upon the severity of the condition, as well as the location of the sweat (armpits, hands, feet, or face). While there are surgical interventions that might be appropriate in certain severe cases (sweat gland removal, for example), most people respond well to non-invasive or minimally invasive solutions. These include: 
  • Topical prescription-strength antiperspirants. In mild-to-moderate cases, prescription antiperspirants with aluminum chloride might be recommended. This option is a relatively cost-effective solution for people whose perspiration occurs in their armpits or feet. 
  • Oral medications. Certain medications can successfully address hyperhidrosis, such as prescription antidepressants and nerve-blocking medications. 
  • Botox. Targeted Botox (botulinum toxin) injections can effectively inhibit the nerve signals that cause sweat glands to activate. This treatment can last up to one year, and it is FDA -approved for underarm sweating. 
  • Iontophoresis. This treatment uses an electrical current to temporarily paralyze your sweat glands; it is especially effective for people who sweat heavily from the hands and feet. 
  • MiraDry. MiraDry is a non-invasive treatment that permanently destroys your sweat glands. If you struggle with severe underarm perspiration, you might opt for this in-office treatment that eliminates the sweat glands using applications of thermal energy. This intervention can reduce perspiration (and odor) by more than 80% in 12 months. 
The optimal treatment for your hyperhidrosis will depend upon the severity of the condition and the location of the aggressive perspiration. At Skin and Cancer Associates and The Center for Cosmetic Enhancement, our board-certified dermatologists will help you determine the best course of treatment for your individual needs. 
If you are ready to seek treatment for excessive perspiration, please don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment at the practice near you. 

Traveling? âÅ“ˆÃ¯¸ Adapt your skincare routine to your destination

Here’s one thing the travel guides won’t tell you: Your skin may feel very different at your destination than it does at home. The products in your regular routine might suddenly leave your complexion feeling oily or dry. Before you board the plane or pile into the car for your next vacation, read up on how your skin might react to a new environment. Then, pick up whatever you may need to acclimate to your temporary home—in FAA-friendly bottles, of course.
We’re here to make the research a little easier for you. Read on for some simple tips on adjusting your skincare routine for common travel destinations.
> In a tropical climate, like Cancún: The high heat and humidity could leave your skin feeling greasy, so pack a clarifying cleanser and lightweight moisturizer to minimize shine and breakouts.
> In a mild humid climate, like the Hamptons: You’re likely to sweat more in a humid environment, even if it’s not super warm, so make sure to pack waterproof sunscreen and makeup, if you wear it.
> In a hot, dry climate, like Palm Springs: When there’s almost no moisture in the air, your skin can dry out, accelerating signs of aging. To counteract the dry environment, use a gentle cleanser and a heavyweight moisturizer, so your skin stays hydrated and fresh.
> In a mountain climate, like Mammoth or Tahoe: A higher elevation means dryness and much more UV exposure, so choose an emollient sunscreen and reapply every two hours. This step is especially important if you have a high risk of skin cancer, so don’t skip it!
> Anywhere: Daily sunscreen use minimizes your skin cancer risk and slows signs of aging, so it’s a must wherever you are. Pick heavier formulas for dry locales and lighter formulas for humid locales.
Pack us in your suitcase and take us with you. For your convenience, we have a variety of skincare products and regimens in our offices and online at shop.westdermatology.com that can be customized to your skin type. Our sunscreens are even 20% OFF this month (June 2022) to help you pack and prepare for your next summer vacation.
If you have any questions about customizing your skincare routine to the climate, just make an appointment before you go, and one of our dermatologists will talk you through it. Bon voyage and safe travels!

How to Do an At-Home Skin Check

In between your visits with us, did you know you can keep an eye on your own skin by checking yourself from the comfort of your own home?
 
Here’s how to perform an at-home skin check:
 
Examine your body in a full-length mirror. Check the front and back of your body, and use a handheld mirror to see your blind spots. Don’t forget to stand to the side and raise your arms to get a complete look at your entire body. 
 
Areas to make sure that you check:
·      Bend your elbows and look closely at your underarms, forearms, and palms.
·      Check the backs of your legs, in between your toes, and the soles of your feet.
·      Take a look at your scalp and neck (don’t forget to use your handheld mirror!).
·      Don’t forget to evaluate your back, buttocks, and private areas. 
 
Now that you’ve completed your skin self-check, you’re probably wondering what you should do if you spot a mole. The truth is, not every mole is worrisome. There are some stark differences between regular moles and skin cancer. When in doubt, follow ABCDE guidelines for what could mean that you have a form of skin cancer.
 
Your mole may be cancerous if the following occurs: 
·      A is for Asymmetry: The mole is not the same size on both sides. 
·      B is for Border: The borders are jagged, uneven, and irregular. 
·      C is for Color: Color is inconsistent. 
·      D is for Diameter: The size of the mole is 6mm or more. However, melanoma doesn’t always start out small but may grow over time. 
·      E is for Evolving: Your mole may be cancerous if it changes size, shape, or color over time. 
 
At-home skin checks are a great first step, but it’s always important to follow-up with a board-certified dermatologist to get a thorough second glance. Don’t leave it to guesswork because your health depends on it. 
 
Book your skin check with us to make sure your skin is healthy and cancer-free. You deserve that peace of mind!