Spending Time Outdoors can Cause Skin Problems Easily Treated with Online Dermatology

Whether it’s sun spots, sunburn, allergies or insect bites, telehealth speeds up treatment

People who’ve been self-isolating for months during the COVID-19 pandemic are now determined to get outside, understandably so. Summer has finally arrived. But after being cooped up indoors for so long, there’s a very real risk that a lot of people are going to overdo it when they get outdoors. Spending too much time in the summer sun can lead to painful sunburn, getting too close to the wrong plants can cause a major rash, the bugs and bees are busier than ever – and prolonged exposure to UV rays can bring on even bigger problems. 

Maybe the desire to explore beyond the four walls of the house leads to taking the dog for a long walk in the woods. People who’ve experienced the pain and itch of poison ivy and other toxic plants quickly learn to recognize the leaves and steer clear. But you can still get a vicious rash just by petting your dog if his fur comes in contact with urushiol oil, the toxin in poison ivy, poison oak and sumac.

As much as 85 percent of the population will develop an allergic reaction to one or more of these toxic plants, and sensitivity generally gets worse with each exposure.

Allergic reactions to bug bites are also a common consequence of spending more time outdoors in the summer, when stinging insects are most active.

Then there’s skin cancer, which is the most common cancer in the United States. An estimated 9,500 Americans are diagnosed with skin cancer every day. Research estimates that non-melanoma skin cancer, including basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, affects more than 3 million Americans a year. The main cause? Overexposure to the sun.

If you’re going to be outdoors for any length of time, at a minimum you should apply a sunblock rated SPF 30 or higher. If you notice anything unusual on your skin, seeing a dermatologist is your best bet for effective treatment.

As with any type of cancer, skin cancer can be deadly. But it need not be. Studies show consistently that the five-year survival rate for patients whose melanoma is detected early is about 99 percent.

The key to this survival rate is getting seen promptly by a dermatologist who can make the diagnosis and start treatment. Even if you’re suffering from a lesser skin problem, such as an allergic reaction, your primary care physician may not be able to identify the source or the best options for treatment.

Because of the shortage of board-certified dermatologists in the United States, people who need skin care might have to wait weeks or even months for an appointment, especially if they have to jump through the hoop of getting a doctor’s referral, finding a nearby dermatologist and waiting for an appointment.

COVID-19 has triggered a rapid increase in the use of telehealth. Not just because it’s convenient, but because it works. About 11 percent of US consumers used telehealth last year for their medical care. Through the first half of 2020 that rate spiked to 46 percent of consumers who are now using telehealth as a substitute for in-office medical visits.

Whether you develop a painful sunburn this summer, a rash, or you notice troubling spots on your skin, an online dermatology visit provides the care you need right away.

There are at least three main benefits of online dermatology:

1. Effectiveness: Teledermatology services allow doctors to provide effective care that might not be available to patients due to travel restrictions, concerns about social distancing or sheer geographic distance. Research shows that online dermatology is an efficient and appropriate service for patients who might otherwise not receive care.
   
2. Saves Time: No waiting weeks or months to be seen by a board-certified dermatologist. This is especially important for diagnosing serious skin conditions where early diagnosis and treatment saves lives.
   
   Online dermatology can create a beneficial domino effect by reducing follow-up visits, lowering treatment costs, and cutting the number of undetected cases. All of these factors have a positive impact on managing consumer and insurance costs while easing the demand on the healthcare system because early diagnosis and treatment results in better patient outcomes at less expense.
   
3. Economic Value: Another benefit of online dermatology (in addition to its potentially life-saving advantages) is cost.  By providing patients with rapid access to services, online dermatologists are able to deliver a timely diagnosis. This enables the dermatologist to focus on patients in need of further care, while lowering the administrative costs of running a clinic – all while combatting the shortage of board-certified dermatologists in the United States. Bottom line: better outcomes for patients.

The good news is you don’t have to look far for high-quality online dermatology services. Many traditional dermatology practices have adopted telehealth as part of their patient care strategy. The pandemic may have been the catalyst behind the boom in online dermatology, but patients are making sure teledermatology is here to stay.

Across the spectrum of healthcare, patients and their physicians are reporting high demand and high satisfaction rates using telehealth apps. Dermatology, given it’s visual nature, is a natural fit for telehealth.  This will have meaningful and ongoing benefits for patients looking to enjoy their summer outdoors.

The good news is you don’t have to look far for excellent online dermatology services – and now there’s minimal waiting.

In many parts of New York and throughout the country, patients often have to wait weeks before they can see a board-certified dermatologist. That’s no longer necessary.

At Walk-in Dermatology, patients can see a board-certified dermatologist quickly – either in-person or by Video Visit.

Imagine: No more waiting. Walk-in Dermatology is open and ready to serve you. Schedule an appointment today by calling us at (516) 621-1982.

The post Spending Time Outdoors can Cause Skin Problems Easily Treated with Online Dermatology appeared first on Walk-in Dermatology.

source https://walkindermatology.com/blog/spending-time-outdoors-can-cause-skin-problems-easily-treated-with-online-dermatology/

What Can I Expect after a Photofacial?

Photofacial therapy, also known as Intense Pulsed Light or IPL, is a proven non-surgical technique for stopping the clock on aging skin and restoring a more youthful appearance.

IPL works by directing pulsating light energy into the skin. The light converts to heat as it reaches its target, which can be pigment in the skin or hair, redness caused by blood vessels, even the bacteria in acne. The goal of treatment is to remove blemishes and imperfections in the skin, or in more severe cases at least make them less noticeable. Photofacial treatments produce excellent results with minimal downtime and discomfort.

Immediately after a photofacial treatment, there may be some mild redness and swelling, which can be covered with makeup. Most patients can apply makeup immediately after the procedure, although your dermatologist may recommend waiting a day or two. Patients are able to return to work or resume normal activities right away. Discoloration may be noticeable in the treated areas. This is normal. The discoloration will disappear in a week or two as the skin cells in the treated area rise to the surface and flake off.

You’ll see improvement about a week after each treatment. Most patients need 3 to 5 photofacial sessions. Maximum results will be noticeable in 3 to 5 months if you receive a series of IPL treatments about a month apart between each session.

Side effects of photofacial therapy are typically minor and temporary.

How photofacial therapy improves sun-damaged skin

A photofacial erases the effects of UV damage in two ways: First, it penetrates and dissolves discolored cells that have formed deep in the skin. The result is more even and well-toned skin. Think of the process as a deep exfoliation. After each photofacial session, during the healing process your skin begins to generate new collagen, which makes your skin stronger and smoother.

Regular photofacials spaced a month or more apart can stop premature skin aging

Photofacials change the structure of your skin cells, causing them to respond more like young cells. A 10-year study at Stanford University showed that having 2 to 3 photofacials annually for a decade positively altered the genes of skin cells. Regular IPL treatments transformed cell production into young, healthy skin cells.

To get the most benefit from the therapy, after each session you must avoid exposure to the sun. Skin resurfacing therapies, including photofacials, will temporarily make your skin more sun sensitive. Using sunscreen before and after photofacial treatments is likewise important.

A healthy diet is also essential to maintain weight. Gaining or losing weight during photofacial therapy has the tendency to distort the skin, either by stretching or loosening, which undoes the positive photofacial effect of collagen production.

Photofacial therapy can also be used in tandem with other treatments

The revitalizing effects of photofacial therapy can be combined with other non-surgical procedures such as dermal fillers and Botox injections, which can be used on skin areas that photofacials cannot treat, such as around the eyes.

What to expect after IPL:

• Redness around the treated area for two to five days
• Minor bruising that may last two weeks or less
• Freckles and age spots may darken for three to seven days before starting to fade
• Skin flaking and crusting for up to 10 days
• A sensation of sunburn for two to five hours immediately after treatment

Most patients experience some, but seldom all, of these after-effects. Discomfort is generally minor.

What you can do to speed up healing after IPL therapy:

• Use mild cleansers and moisturizers daily on your skin.
• Apply a sunscreen with a minimum of 30 SPF. This protects your skin from UVB and UVA rays.
• Cleanse your skin twice a day with warm water.
• Perform a microdermabrasion facial 2 to 3 weeks after treatment with IPL. This protects and hydrates your skin while removing dead skin cells.
• Add stem cell serum to your skin regimen to boost collagen repair, and give your skin a smooth and healthy appearance.

What to avoid after IPL therapy:

• No hot showers for 48 hours.
• For 2 days after a treatment avoid taking aspirin, Ibuprofen, drinking alcohol, heavy exertion and activities which may cause skin flushing.
• Avoid harsh topical products such as retinols and glycolic acid products for one week after each session.
• Avoid direct sunlight on the treated area and use a sunscreen with SPF 30 or greater for 4 to 6 weeks after treatment.
• No swimming for a week, especially in pools with chemicals such as chlorine.
• No strenuous exercise for 48 hours. You can hit the gym after about 2 days post-therapy.
• No hot tubs or Jacuzzis for 48 hours.
• Avoid activities that cause excessive perspiration.
• Do not pick at or remove any loosening or peeling skin.
• No electrolysis, facial waxing or depilatories (hair removal products) for 14 days after a treatment.

It is important to give your skin some TLC after your photofacial session. Your skin will probably feel sensitive, especially to heat. This is why regular use of a moisturizer and sunscreen will not only make your skin feel better but will hasten the rejuvenation process of IPL therapy.

Getting the best photofacial treatment

You don’t have to look far for excellent dermatology services – including IPL therapy and other cosmetic treatments. Best of all, now there’s no waiting.
In many parts of New York and throughout the country, patients often wait weeks before they can see a board-certified dermatologist and receive a diagnosis, much less actual treatment.

That’s no longer necessary.

At Walk-in Dermatology, patients can see a board-certified dermatologist at a time that’s convenient for them. Our dermatologists will evaluate your skin and answer all your questions. If photofacial therapy seems like the right solution, we will work with you to set up IPL treatments convenient to your schedule.

No more waiting days or even weeks to receive IPL treatments. If you desire a proven, non-surgical way to revitalize your appearance and treat sun damage, wrinkles and lines, rosacea, enlarged pores, scars and much more, Walk-in Dermatology is here to serve you. We are open and ready to help you regain healthy skin that positively glows with a youthful look.

Learn more: What’s Better: IPL or BBL?

The post What Can I Expect after a Photofacial? appeared first on Walk-in Dermatology.

source https://walkindermatology.com/blog/photofacial-expectations/

What’s Better: IPL or BBL?

IPL and BBL are types of light therapies dermatologists use to improve the appearance of your skin. As to which therapy is better, it really depends on the individual patient. Some skin types respond more favorably to one type of light treatment over another.

Let’s take a closer look.

IPL stands for Intense Pulsed Light and BBL stands for Broad Band Light. Both skin revitalization therapies are nonsurgical procedures that work by directing light energy into the skin. The light converts to heat as it reaches its target, which can be pigment in the skin or hair, redness caused by blood vessels, as well as bacteria in acne. The goal of treatment is to remove blemishes and imperfections in the skin, or in severe cases to make them less noticeable. Both IPL and BBL produce excellent results with minimal downtime and discomfort.

Once the heat hits the target it is absorbed, eventually eliminating the target from the skin. As the area heals, the skin produces healthy elastin and collagen, restoring the area to its natural condition. Both treatment types use light filtered at different wavelengths to treat skin conditions and create a more youthful appearance through rejuvenated skin.

Here’s how it works:

Dark spots on the skin are actually tiny pockets of pigment or blood cells that are trapped underneath the skin’s surface. This can be caused by prolonged sun exposure, skin disease and certain injuries. All of these conditions cause the release of excess pigments or blood to heal the inured area. Once the area has healed, the pigment molecules or blood cells don’t disappear. They become trapped in pockets of collagen, which can be seen under the surface of the skin.

IPL and BBL treatments target the cells in those collagen pockets, causing them to break apart so they disappear during the healing process. The result is even-toned, unmarred skin.

IPL and BBL over more than 10 years have become an effective method for reducing signs of aging, including treatment of sun damaged skin (also known as photodamage), fine lines and wrinkles, vascularity (reddening of the skin caused by blood vessels), skin texture and other cosmetic concerns. The number of treatments necessary to achieve the desired results varies from patient to patient, although immediate improvement is often seen in as little as 1 to 3 treatments. Each session is typically scheduled 3 to 4 weeks after the previous session.

IPL and BBL work on the same concept of pulsing light to achieve photo rejuvenation, but there are several differences.

IPL was one of the first photo-rejuvenation technologies. Today IPL is used to treat:

• Sun spots
• Rosacea
• Scarring
• Dilated blood vessels
• Enlarged pores

The range of light waves in an IPL treatment target hemoglobin and melanin in the skin, eliminating these spots of hyperpigmentation. IPL light waves also gently heat the deeper layers of skin, stimulating collagen production. This reduces the appearance of fine lines and scars.

BBL is a more advanced version of IPL therapy, both in terms of accuracy and targeting specific skin conditions for treatment:

• Skin tone and texture
• Acne
• Pigmentation
• Sagging skin
• Birthmarks
• Freckles
• Age spots
• Broken capillaries
• Bruising
• Rosacea
• Aging skin

BBL targets skin imperfections at the source, far below the surface of your skin. The technology stimulates new cell growth, which forces the skin to repair itself. As these deeper layers of cells rise to the surface, your skin will continue to improve.

This process fades discolorations and stimulates collagen growth for smoother, firmer skin with a more even tone and a decreased appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. There are other benefits as well.

Studies show that BBL can stop the clock on the appearance of aging skin. How does it work? First, a brief look at microbiology. The DNA in our cells determine what each cell is going to be as it grows and how it’s supposed to function. As we get older, our DNA becomes damaged. Cells become less effective in following the instructions of our DNA. Skin cells with older DNA do not replenish with new cells as fast as they once did. So older skin cells remain on the surface longer, creating dull, dry-looking skin.

BBL treatments rejuvenate the genetic code in skin cells. As a result, cells with rejuvenated DNA perform like younger cells. Soon, your skin begins to look younger as the deeper, BBL-treated layers rise to the surface.

Who’s a candidate for light therapy?

It’s important to know that patients cannot be treated with BBL if they have an active herpes infection, open wounds or skin injuries. Sunburn, certain types of scarring, skin infections or skin cancer would also eliminate BBL as a treatment option until those conditions are resolved.

Additionally, women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not perform BBL treatment.

BBL also cannot be done for at least 4 weeks following sunburn, unprotected sun exposure or use of a tanning bed.

Generally, BBL treatments are more effective in people with darker skin types. BBL is also preferred for certain skin conditions, as highlighted above.

Another advantage of BBL is fewer treatments may be required to achieve results compared to IPL, in some cases perhaps half as many.

What comes after treatment?

With either therapy, you’ll need to avoid prolonged sun exposure for at least 4 weeks prior to treatment. At the same time, you’ll need to apply sunscreen daily (our dermatologists usually recommend sunscreen with at least SPF 30).

Down time after light-therapy treatment is usually minimal, but there are precautions to take. Your skin will be sensitive and may feel like it has been sunburned. Until that sensation goes away, you should avoid:

• Showering, swimming, hot tubbing, saunas or vigorous exercise for at least 24 hours
• Applying makeup over the treated areas
• Using scented soaps or lotions, deodorants, and active skin care ingredients that contain retinol and glycolic acids
• Sun exposure and tanning beds

Your dermatologist may recommend a specially formulated recovery cream for you to apply to your skin after treatment.

As with any technologically advanced therapy, the skill of the IPL and BBL operator is just as important as the equipment. This is why you should review the credentials and experience of any aesthetician or dermatologist you are considering for these cosmetic procedures. Verify that they use medical-grade equipment, which cannot be operated by amateurs. Another factor to consider is price. If you are offered a rock-bottom deal on either IPL or BBL procedures, you can bet that corners are being cut somewhere, either in the skill of the operator or the quality of the equipment.

Getting the best treatment

The good news is you don’t have to look far for excellent cosmetic dermatology services – and now there’s no waiting.

In many parts of New York and throughout the country, patients often have to wait weeks before they can see a board-certified dermatologist.

That’s no longer necessary.

At Walk-in Dermatology, patients can see a board-certified dermatologist seven days a week. Our dermatologists will evaluate your skin and, if light therapy seems like the right solution, will work with you to determine whether IPL or BBL treatment is best for you.

No more waiting days or even weeks to receive light therapy treatments. If you are seeking a non-surgical way to revitalize your appearance and treat sun damage, address wrinkles and fine lines, help with rosacea, enlarged pores, scars and more, Walk-in Dermatology is ready to serve you.

Learn more: How Long Does it Take for Brown Spots to Fade after IPL?

The post What’s Better: IPL or BBL? appeared first on Walk-in Dermatology.

source https://walkindermatology.com/blog/ipl-vs-bbl/

How Long Does IPL Take to Heal?

Healing after an IPL treatment varies with the patient although in most cases takes less than a week and as little as 2 to 3 days.

IPL stands for Intense Pulsed Light. Dermatologists use this non-surgical therapy to remove blemishes and imperfections in the skin, or in severe cases make them less noticeable. IPL can stop the clock on signs of aging skin, while reducing wrinkles and fine lines. The procedure is often referred to as a “photofacial” treatment and can be performed anywhere on the body.

With IPL, the therapy light converts to heat that targets deeper layers of skin, breaking up the pigmentation and blood cells that cause skin discoloration. As the treated area heals, your skin produces healthy elastin and collagen, restoring the skin to a natural condition, giving you a more youthful appearance.

One advantage of IPL over other light therapies, such as laser treatments, is IPL works on a range of light wavelengths and so it can be used for different skin treatments. Laser light works on a single, narrow wavelength so it cannot be used to treat as many different skin conditions as IPL.

You can maximize your results by following your aesthetician’s or dermatologist’s pre-procedure instructions. Most importantly, stop using any type of product containing Vitamin A on the face for at least 60 days before your IPL therapy appointment. This includes retinoic acid, glycolic acid, tretinoin (Retin-A), Accutane, and alpha-hydroxy acids.

There may be mild discomfort during IPL treatment, but most patients tolerate removal of dilated blood vessels or age spots, freckles and fine lines very easily. The first treatment may feel tingly. Patients often say follow-up treatments become even more comfortable as their skin begins to clear.

Afterward, you might feel a slight sensation of sunburn that should go away in a matter of hours and no more than a day or two, at most.

Healing times after IPL vary both with individual patients and the condition being treated.

For veins, the skin looks slightly redder for 2 to 5 days after treatment.

Freckles and age spots after treatment generally turn darker for 3 to 7 days before they begin to fade. Crusting may occur, and can last up to 10 days. Crusting is the result of pigmentation rising to the skin surface as a result of IPL therapy and gradually flaking off. Usually 3 to 5 treatments are required over a period of months to clear age spots.

Ask your dermatologist if it’s okay to use makeup right after the treatment. It may not be a concern if applied and removed gently, although your dermatologist may suggest avoiding makeup until 48 hours post-treatment, depending on your skin condition.

In rare cases, patients may experience skin bruising. This usually heals in 1 to 2 weeks.

It’s important to talk to a dermatologist before receiving any type of intense light therapy. Your dermatologist will diagnose your skin condition and be able to give you the best recommendation for treatment. A dermatologist can also work with you to identify the underlying causes of a skin condition so you can take steps to prevent it from getting worse or coming back. For instance, applying a quality sunscreen and wearing a hat when you spend time outdoors will make a dramatic difference in the health of your skin while reducing the appearance of darkened pigmentation.

What are IPL Treatments Like?

At your dermatologist’s office you will be shown to the IPL treatment room. You’ll wear special glasses or eye pads to protect your eyes during treatment. A cool gel is applied to the skin being treated. The IPL wand is then gently applied to your skin. Because of your eye protection you won’t see but may feel the pulsing light, sometimes described as a light tingle or slight sting. Therapy times depend on the skin condition being treated, but typically last between 30 and 90 minutes.

After your treatment, the gel is removed from your skin, which is then cleaned with a warm cloth. This is followed by an application of moisturizer containing sunscreen.

If you experience any swelling or discomfort, you may receive a cold pack to hold on the skin for a few minutes.

Once your dermatologist gives the go-ahead, you can apply makeup, in most cases right after therapy.

Follow all post-care instructions given to you by your dermatologist. These directions are designed to help your skin heal as quickly as possible while producing the best results from IPL treatment.

To achieve lasting results, expect to visit the dermatologist’s office for 3 to 5 IPL treatments. Annual maintenance treatments may also be necessary. Treatments are usually scheduled a month apart. This is because your skin cells turn over once about every 30 days, giving your skin a chance to recover fully before the next IPL treatment.

Possible side effects from IPL treatment:

• Skin redness, tenderness or swelling 48 hours to a week post-treatment
• Blisters and burns (extremely rare)
• Scabbing (this is typical of brown spots, which rise to the surface of your skin, crust over and gradually flake off)

What to do to speed up healing after IPL therapy:

• Use mild cleansers and moisturizers daily on your skin.
• Apply a sunscreen with a minimum of 30 SPF. This protects your skin from UVB and UVA rays.
• Cleanse your skin twice a day with warm water
• Perform a microdermabrasion facial 2 to 3 weeks after treatment with IPL. This protects and hydrates your skin while removing dead skin cells.
• Add stem cell serum to your skin regimen to boost collagen repair, and give your skin a smooth and healthy appearance

What not to do after IPL therapy:

• No hot showers for 48 hours.
• Avoid taking aspirin, Ibuprofen, consuming alcohol, heavy exertion and activities which may cause flushing for 2 days after treatment.
• Avoid harsh topical products such as retinols and glycolic acid products for one week after treatment.
• Avoid direct sunlight on the treated area and use a sunscreen with SPF 30 or greater for 4 to 6 weeks after treatment.
• No swimming, especially in pools with chemicals such as chlorine.
• No hot tubs.
• Avoid activities that cause excessive perspiration.
• Do not pick at or remove any loosening or peeling skin.
• No electrolysis, facial waxing or depilatories (hair removal products) for 14 days after a treatment.

Getting the Best IPL Treatment

You don’t have to look far for excellent dermatology services – including IPL therapy – and now there’s no waiting.

In many parts of New York and throughout the country, patients often wait weeks before they can see a board-certified dermatologist and receive a diagnosis.

That’s no longer necessary.

At Walk-in Dermatology, patients can see a board-certified dermatologist seven days a week. Our dermatologists will evaluate your skin and answer all your questions. If light therapy seems like the right solution for your skin condition, our office will set up IPL treatments convenient for your schedule.

No more waiting days or even weeks to receive light therapy treatments. If you are seeking a non-surgical way to revitalize your appearance and treat sun damage, wrinkles and fine lines, rosacea, enlarged pores, scars and much more, Walk-in Dermatology is open and ready to serve you. We are here to help you achieve healthy, radiant skin that positively glows.

Read more: What Can I Expect After a Photofacial?

The post How Long Does IPL Take to Heal? appeared first on Walk-in Dermatology.

source https://walkindermatology.com/blog/how-long-does-ipl-take-to-heal/

What Are the Benefits of IPL Treatments?

Photofacials, also sometimes referred to as IPL therapy, are among the most popular options for non-invasive, anti-aging treatments. IPL stands for Intense Pulsed Light, a technology that uses short pulses of broad-spectrum laser light directed over the skin’s surface. Developed in the 1990s, IPL is proven to roll back the visible signs of aging skin by dissolving damaged or discolored skin cells and boosting collagen production. Collagen is a protein that creates connective tissue and gives skin a firm, healthy appearance.

If you want to stop the clock on aging skin, IPL therapy may be the right solution for you.

A 10-year study by Stanford University shows IPL therapy not only repairs signs of aging, but helps to prevent future signs as well. With 2 to 3 IPL treatments per year research participants saw a transformation in their skin to resemble much younger looking skin. Some showed smoother and more even-toned skin at the end of the study than they had 10 years earlier when they started IPL treatments.

Among the benefits of IPL therapy, sessions last only 30 to 90 minutes, depending on the skin area being treated. Downtime is minimal.

Dermatologists often recommend IPL treatment to reduce pigmentation because the therapy targets the melanin present in your skin. This is what causes pigmentation and discoloration, often caused by prolonged sun exposure. Your 2 to 3 initial IPL treatments can make a significant improvement in the appearance of dark spots. IPL therapy also has the advantage of covering a large skin area and there is very little post-procedure downtime.

IPL treatments can be used on the face, neck, chest, as well as arms and hands.

Therapy typically involves an initial set of 2 to 3 treatments spaced about a month apart, followed by 2 to 3 annual maintenance treatments.

The immediate result of initial IPL therapy is a decrease in skin discoloration. Maintenance treatments help to keep your skin looking younger and healthy, promote collagen growth, prevent the effects of sun damage, and give the skin a healthy glow.

Another benefit of IPL therapy is that it can be used in combination with other facial skin procedures, such as chemical peels and microdermabrasion. These treatments target the surface layer of skin, while IPL reaches the deeper layers of skin.

IPL was among the first photo-rejuvenation technologies.

Today IPL is used to treat:

• Rosacea (redness and visible blood vessels in the face)
• Scarring
• Enlarged pores (IPL can help eliminate large pores and reduce the appearance of skin acne without the need for topical products that dry out skin)
• Acne and acne scars
• Birthmarks
• Redness
• Broken capillaries (also known as spider veins due to the web-like appearance)
• Dyschromia (discoloration of the skin or nails)
• Melasma (brown or gray patches, usually appearing on the face)
• Brown spots
• Freckles
• Sunspots
• Age spots
• Hyperpigmentation (darker skin patches caused by an excess of melanin, the brown pigment that produces normal skin color)
• Vascular and pigmented lesions
• Uneven skin tone and texture
• Fine lines and wrinkles

How Does IPL Work?

A handheld device is passed over your skin, sending pulses of broad spectrum light into the deep layers of the skin. Because this pulsing light reaches the skin on a molecular level, there are no incisions or injections. The range of light waves in an IPL treatment target melanin and hemoglobin in the skin, releasing these hyperpigmentation spots, blemishes and blotches. IPL light waves also gently heat the deeper layers of skin. This stimulates collagen production, which reduces the appearance of fine lines, scars and wrinkles. Unlike lasers, IPL produces more than one wavelength of pulsating light. As a result, IPL can treat a range of skin conditions at the same time.

What Happens After an IPL Treatment?

• Freckles and age spots may appear darker for 3 to 7 days after treatment. This is normal.
• Crusting may appear on the treated skin. This is also normal and should go away within a week to 10 days.
• In rare instances, patients may experience bruising, which typically fades in about a week.

Down time after light-therapy treatment is usually minimal, but there are precautions to take. Your skin will be sensitive and may feel like it has been sunburned.

Until that sensation goes away, you should avoid:

• Showering, swimming, hot tubbing, saunas or vigorous exercise for at least 24 hours.
• Applying makeup over the treated areas. You can start using makeup a day or two after the treatment as long as the area does not feel sunburned. Apply and remove makeup gently from the skin treated with IPL.
• Using scented soaps or lotions, deodorants, and active skin care ingredients that contain retinol and glycolic acids.
• Sun exposure and tanning beds

Your dermatologist may recommend a specially formulated recovery cream for you to apply to your skin after treatment.

As with any technologically advanced therapy, the skill of the IPL dermatologist is just as important as the equipment for you to receive the best results. This is why you should review the credentials and experience of any dermatologist you are considering for any cosmetic procedure. Professionals use medical-grade equipment, which cannot be operated by amateurs. Another factor to consider is price. If you find an unusually inexpensive deal on IPL therapy, most likely corners are being cut somewhere, either in the skill of the therapist or the quality of the equipment.

Getting the Best Results from Your IPL Therapy

Preparing and stimulating your skin before the IPL procedure can help your results. Follow this suggested skincare regimen for 7to 14 days prior to the IPL appointment:

Mornings

• Avoid wearing makeup, if possible
• Clean the skin area with a gentle cleanser
• Apply a moisturizer
• Apply sunblock lotion with a SPF 30 or higher

Evenings

• Clean the area gently
• Apply a moisturizer

What to Avoid Before your IPL Therapy Appointment

• Tanning in the sun, a tanning bed, using tanning creams for 4 weeks
• No waxing, chemical peels or collagen shots for 2 weeks
• Do not wear perfume, makeup, deodorant, or any skin irritants before the appointment
• Do not take aspirin or other drugs that cause blood thinning

What Conditions Would Prevent Someone from Receiving IPL Treatment?

Talk to your dermatologist if you:

• Are pregnant
• Have a skin condition
• Take medication for other conditions

You Should Not Take IPL Therapy If You:

• Are sensitive to light
• Have recently tanned using sunlight, tanning beds, or tanning creams
• Might have skin cancer
• Use a retinoid cream
• Have very dark skin

Getting the Best Treatment

The good news is you don’t have to look far for excellent dermatology services – and now there’s no waiting.

In many parts of New York and throughout the country, patients often have to wait weeks before they can see a board-certified dermatologist.

That’s no longer necessary.

At Walk-in Dermatology, patients can see a board-certified dermatologist seven days a week. Our dermatologists will evaluate your skin and, if light therapy seems like the right solution, will work with you to determine whether IPL or BBL treatment is best for you.

No more waiting days or even weeks to receive light therapy treatments. If you are seeking a non-surgical way to revitalize your appearance and treat sun damage, wrinkles and fine lines, rosacea, enlarged pores, scars and more, Walk-in Dermatology is open and ready to serve you.

Read more: How Long Does IPL Take to Heal?

The post What Are the Benefits of IPL Treatments? appeared first on Walk-in Dermatology.

source https://walkindermatology.com/blog/what-are-the-benefits-of-ipl-treatments/

Can You Go to Urgent Care for Dermatology?

The short answer is yes, you can. The better question is whether you should.

Skin problems are ordinarily treated by a dermatologist, who specializes in evaluating and treating conditions affecting the skin, hair and nails. In most urgent care settings, the doctor will be able to diagnose a skin infection and may prescribe antibiotics and creams to treat the infection. Often, the patient is then referred to a dermatologist for follow-up care. It may be preferable to see a dermatologist directly, eliminating a long wait in an ER or urgent care medical practice. Even patients who go to their primary care physician may be immediately referred to a dermatologist.

Not all skin problems can be evaluated in an emergency room or urgent care facility. Generally, a trip to the ER or urgent care will not be necessary when you can schedule an appointment with a board-certified doctor dermatologist. Video Visits, where you see a dermatologist remotely using video conferencing platform, is an option for people to receive a diagnosis and plan of treatment without having to leave the house.

Several studies have shown that a serious skin infection is the most common dermatological condition that triggers a visit to an emergency room or urgent care facility. Cellulitis, a bacterial skin infection, accounts for almost half of all dermatology-related ER visits, according to a study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. Skin infections on the leg are the most common cellulitis cases that result in a trip to the emergency room.

So, how do we define a serious skin infection?

You can get an infection any time the skin is broken, whether from a cut, scrape, puncture wound, piercing, tattoo, insect sting or bite.

Symptoms of a skin infection include:

• Worsening pain
• Increased swelling around the affected area
• The injury hasn’t healed after 10 days
• Pus or fluid oozing from the injured area
• Redness around the injury
• A red streak extending from the affected skin toward the heart
• A yellowish crust on top of red skin
• Blisters

The time to seek urgent care is when a patient has an obvious infection and is running a fever of 100.4 degrees or higher. In addition, urgent care is recommended when the redness or swelling around the skin begins to spread.

Eczema is a condition that can closely resemble an infection. Patches of skin become inflamed, itchy, red and cracked. Blisters may form on the skin. Eczema may look worse on children, especially because they may have a harder time resisting the temptation to scratch the skin.

If a rash or other skin problem spreads across more than 10 percent of your body, contact a dermatologist immediately, especially if you are also experiencing fever, joint aches, muscle pain, difficulty swallowing or are unable to sleep.

Here are some common conditions that a dermatologist can diagnose quickly and treat effectively, perhaps sparing you a trip to the ER:

Poison Ivy, Oak, and Sumac

These three vine-like plants all contain the oil urushiol, which causes that notorious itching, blisters and redness. Your dermatologist may prescribe a steroid medication to combat the skin irritation. However, in rare cases of exposure to these toxic plants, people who experience trouble breathing, sudden swelling or a spreading rash across the body – especially on the face – should seek emergency care. Breathing problems often arise when the toxic plants are burned and the urushiol gets into the air, where it is inhaled, although people highly allergic to urushiol can develop breathing issues just from skin contact with the plants.

Shingles

This viral infection can cause an extremely painful rash, commonly along the side of the torso. People who have had chickenpox are more susceptible to shingles because both are caused by the same virus.

Dermatologists may prescribe antiviral medications to heal the shingles rash and recommend over-the-counter pain relievers.

Ringworm

This is a contagious skin infection caused by a fungus, not worms, despite the misleading name. Athlete’s foot is a common form of ringworm. You can recognize the infection by the ring-shaped, flat patches it forms on the skin, often accompanied by peeling and flaking. Treatment involves antifungal medications.

Impetigo

This is a contagious bacterial infection caused by strep (streptococcus) or staph (staphylococcus). It causes itchy red sores that form a yellow-brown crust. Impetigo is treated with antibiotics, either skin creams, pills or some combination.

In the absence of skin infection symptoms, severe allergic reactions or adverse reaction to drugs, visiting the local urgent care facility for skin problems is likely to result in a referral to a dermatologist, anyway.

This is because not all urgent care facilities are equipped to diagnose skin conditions or have the personnel trained to recognize the vast variety of skin issues and diseases. So they depend on the expertise of a dermatologist. In fact, many community healthcare centers maintain a network of on-call dermatologists who consult and take patient referrals. In a non-emergency, wouldn’t it be easier and less time-consuming to go straight to the dermatologist, rather than an urgent care?

If it’s not an urgent situation requiring emergency medical care, patients are likely to save time and money by consulting directly with a dermatologist about their skin problems. So long as you’re not running a fever and experiencing significant pain, a trip to the emergency room or an urgent care medical practice may not be your best option for getting back to good health.

You can always consult with a board-certified dermatologist from the comfort of your own home. New patients can even complete the registration form online, making the process of seeing your dermatologist quick and simple.

The post Can You Go to Urgent Care for Dermatology? appeared first on Walk-in Dermatology.

source https://walkindermatology.com/blog/can-you-go-to-urgent-care-for-dermatology/

Blog Post Test 3

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