Itchy, irritating, and unsightly, dry skin can be a pain – literally and figuratively. And it’s only exacerbated by the biting, low humidity that comes with the changing of the seasons. But, fear not! That nip in the air doesn’t have to spell disaster for soft, healthy skin. With these tips from the physicians at Forefront Dermatology, you can nip dry skin in the bud. It’s All About Moisture As you age, your skin produces less of the natural oils that keep it supple and smooth. Applying a moisturizer within 3 minutes after bathing or washing your hands helps supplement and trap those oils. “My rule of thumb is to use a moisturizer that you have to scoop out, not pump,” says Dr. Peter Katz of the Appleton, Wis. office. “Lotions just aren’t good enough because they evaporate in minutes. With a good moisturizer, you should feel a little residual on your skin even 20 minutes later.” Take Smarter Showers It may seem counterintuitive, but that long, hot shower may be drying out your skin. Your skin’s natural oils become more fluid in the heat (think: heated butter) and are easily stripped away by water and soap. “Some people don’t shower as often in winter,” says Dr. Betsy Wernli of the Manitowoc and Chilton, Wis. offices. “That’s not necessarily good, either. If you have dry, cracked skin, this allows bacteria and viruses to enter the skin. Proper hygiene and moisture will keep your skin healthy and help protect your body from infections.” Try shorter showers at cooler temperatures and gentle cleansers. Before leaving the humidity of your bathroom, pat yourself dry and slather on the moisturizer. Choose Products Wisely In addition to thicker moisturizers, pay attention to the other products that come in contact with your skin. Products containing alcohol, heavy fragrance, alpha-hydroxy acids or benzoyl peroxide dry out your skin while deodorant soaps, body spray, or even laundry detergent may further irritate dry skin. When in Doubt, See a Dermatologist If you have a rash, cracked skin or other condition that isn’t improving with over-the-counter treatments, your best bet is to see a dermatologist. It may be your skin’s response to seasonal changes or a sign of a skin condition. “I see this a lot with my patients,” says Dr. Wernli. “They’ve suffered for quite a while unnecessarily. We have treatments for all kinds of skin diseases. No matter what the condition, we can always help.” Dry skin doesn’t have to give you the winter blues. With a few simple changes to your daily skin care routine you can feel beautiful in your skin all year ‘round. And, of course, if you’d like some expert advice, you can always count on the physicians at Forefront Dermatology. To find the physician nearest you, visit the Locations page today.
Category: Uncategorized
Living with Eczema
“Having a chronic skin condition has affected my life more than I ever would have imagined. Sometimes my eczema makes me feel like I’m on a rollercoaster ride. No two days are alike, which makes it very hard to manage.” says Debbie Byrnes who has struggled with eczema her entire life. “What I know now is that my skin talks to me. My skin actually speaks to me. It sometimes yells at me with a whole-body flare. It sometimes whispers with a tingling itch.” says Lisa Choy, a lifelong eczema patient. These are just a few of the personal experiences of people living with eczema, shared with the National Eczema Association. October is Eczema Awareness Month and we are going to take some time to tell you what eczema is and provide tips from a Board-Certified Dermatologist, Dr. Susan Keiler. The word ‘eczema’ is Greek in origin and means “to effervesce, bubble or boil over” which aptly describes the red, inflamed, itchy patches that result from flare ups of this disease. Living with eczema can be a big challenge on many levels; physically, emotionally and even financially. While there is currently no cure, it is manageable with the help of expert medical care and the support of others in the eczema patient community.
“The exact cause of eczema (also known as atopic dermatitis) is unknown and is likely due to a combination of hereditary factors and environmental exposures. There is a definite hereditary component with increased risk in families with history of atopic dermatitis, allergic rhinitis (hay fever) or asthma. Similarly, many children with eczema have a higher tendency to develop hay fever and/or asthma.” ~ Susan A. Keiler, MD
Dr. Keiler is a Board-Certified Dermatologist and Board-Certified Pediatric Dermatologist with Forefront Dermatology in Manitowoc and Pleasant Prairie. Here are some of her dermatologist recommended tips for living with eczema:
- Watch for potential triggers which may include change in weather, irritants (harsh soaps, detergents, wool clothing), environmental allergens (dust mites, pet dander, pollen, molds), food, illness and stress.
- Avoid contact with potential irritants and known allergens. Avoid harsh soaps, detergents, perfumes, fabric softeners, and wool clothing.
- Practice a good dry skin care regimen: Bath daily but keep baths short (5-10 minutes) with lukewarm water and unscented soaps. Pat dry and apply topical medications to the affected areas and thick unscented emollient creams to the remainder of the body within 3 minutes of bathing to lock in the moisturizer.
- Treat with antihistamines as needed to reduce itch sensation which promotes the “itch-scratch” cycle of eczema and then treat secondary infections as needed.
The National Eczema Association is a comprehensive, recommended resource if you or someone you know is living with eczema. This #EczemaMonth they are asking us to join the #ExposingEczema movement by digitally raising our hands and your voices to support everyone touched by eczema. Always consult with an experienced dermatologist to get an accurate diagnoses and learn about the treatment options that are best for you. At Forefront Dermatology, we understand how eczema can affect your quality of your life. Give us a call at (855) 535-7175 to get more information on eczema treatment or to make an appointment at any of our locations.
Psoriasis Talk Part 1: Q & A with Dr. Michelle Chambers
Living with psoriasis can feel very challenging at times and one thing that helps is to talk about it. Since our own Forefront dermatologist, Dr. Michelle Chambers is an expert in psoriasis treatment, we thought we’d ask her for some insight on some common questions. Q: Dr. Chambers, in your opinion, how does psoriasis affect daily life, both day-to-day activities and the quality of life? Since psoriasis has physical changes that are visible, there is a huge psychological component to the disease. Patients also have a higher incidence of depression due to the social stigma associated with this skin disease. Psoriasis on the hands can interfere with activities of daily living. Patients with psoriasis have itching and sometimes have bleeding lesions associated with scratching. In addition, there are multiple co-morbidities such as cardiovascular disease and arthritis that can be seen with psoriasis. It is widely accepted that psoriasis is a systemic disease not just a skin disease. Q: What are some of the current treatment options for psoriasis that are available and in development? There are many treatment options for psoriasis that range from topical treatments to systemic treatments. For mild psoriasis topical steroids and topical vitamin D are a great option. The side effects are minimal. For more severe psoriasis treatments such as Narrow band UVB, topical PUVA ( psoralens and UVA) are still available and are effective for some patients. There are systemic treatments that work well for severe psoriasis such as methotrexate and cyclosporine. These agents work by suppression of the immune system, but not in a specific manner. The newer “biologic” treatments for psoriasis are an exciting advance in treatment. It is now known that the “T cell” in psoriasis releases inflammatory components that affect multiple systems in the body. These newer agents work by suppressing specific agents in the inflammatory pathways of the immune system that are abnormal in psoriasis. The cell cycle in the epidermis is also faster than normal leading to faster cell turnover and the buildup of scale on the skin. Q: We have heard about psoriasis immune disorder. Does psoriasis weaken your immune system? Patients with psoriasis have an abnormality in the T cell response that is overactive. The disease itself does not suppress the immune system but many of the treatments work by suppression of the immune system. Q: Is psoriasis more common in women than men? There is an equal incidence in men and women. Q: What are some recommendations for overall health to keep psoriasis under control? Some things that will flare psoriasis includes trauma, infections especially strep, stress and certain meds such as lithium, beta blockers and antimalarials. Michelle Chambers, MD is a Board-Certified Dermatologist with Forefront Dermatology in Columbus, Ohio. She specializes in psoriasis treatment (including biologics and phototherapy) as well as skin cancer detection and treatment, acne, rosacea, eczema and cosmetic dermatology (including Botox, fillers, laser hair removal, laser genesis, IPL, Titan and chemical peels). For more information and appointments, you can call (614) 754 -8781.
Does Back to School Have to Mean Back to the Dermatologist?
Written by Dr. Betsy Wernli It’s that time of year again when we pack up our backpacks, put on new school clothes and hit new classrooms. With the excitement of reading, writing, and arithmetic also come lots of potential skin problems. So what do you do to keep skin health at the top of the class? Let’s look at some common skin infections and tips on how to keep them away.
Impetigo
Impetigo is a common infection, usually caused by staph or strep bacteria and presents as yellow crusted lesions on the skin. It is transmitted by skin to skin contact or through touching objects that have been contaminated, such as gym equipment or even lockers and desks at school. It is treated by topical and oral antibiotics.
Ringworm
Another infection that is transmitted by skin to skin contact is ringworm, also known as tinea. This presents as red scaly, ring like patches on the body. It is actually a fungus, unlike impetigo, so is treated with topical and oral antifungal medications. Both of these infectious rashes are more common in school aged kids as well as contact athletes.
Viruses
School zones also tend to harbor viruses of all types. These infectious organisms not only cause common colds and respiratory symptoms, but can cause skin lesions.
- Molluscum contagiosum is a common viral infection transmitted, once again, by objects such as playground equipment, as well as other kids who are already infected. It presents as pink, smooth surfaced bumps on the skin that usually do not itch or hurt.
- Common warts are also viral infections, are contagious in the same manner as Molluscum, and appear as rough bumps on the skin, some with fingerlike projections. Warts love to show up on the hands and feet, but can appear on any area of the skin.
It is important to get these evaluated sooner rather than later to start treatments, as the thicker the wart, and the more numerous the Molluscum bumps, the harder these viruses are to treat, requiring more painful and more numerous trips to the Dermatologist. Though in theory if these lesions are left long enough, a person’s immune system may start to fight them off, clinically we do not see this happen very often without help from a doctor. Furthermore, since they are contagious, leaving the lesions untreated puts other family members and school children at risk to contract the disease.
Head Lice
Last, but definitely not least, a child can contract the dreaded creepy crawly Pediculosis, or in layman’s terms: head lice. Usually schools will alert parents if there has been a lice outbreak. If this is the case, take proper measures to ensure it is not a problem in your household. Transmission requires close contact, so instruct children to not share hats and advise against head to head contact during outbreaks, even with friends. The presenting symptom is itch; when looking in the scalp, a person can identify nits or eggs that are yellow to white in color and attached to hair and can find the actual crawling creatures. Using a bright light and lice combs with fine teeth can help to diagnose. First line treatment includes permethrin or other medications that kill the lice. It is also essential to wash all bedding and clothing in hot water. Since white flakes in the scalp can also be dandruff or clothing, your friendly Dermatologist is your best friend to help diagnose and treat. After close consideration of all the potential skin problems kids can face at school, it is easy to want to keep them secluded and at home. But just as you learn ABC’s and 1,2,3, enforce these skin ABCs at home:
- Avoid skin to skin contact during outbreaks.
- Bathe daily and check all areas of skin for rashes and outbreaks.
- Cleanse hands often throughout the day.
With proper measures you can keep up on our ABC’s and healthy enough to stay playing and off the skin injured list! Betsy J. Wernli, MD is a Board-Certified Dermatologist with Forefront Dermatology. She sees patients in Chilton and Manitowoc, Wisconsin. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Wernli or to find a Forefront Dermatology clinic location near you, call (855) 535-7175.
Living with Psoriasis
Currently in the United States, 7.5 million people are living with some form of psoriasis. If you or someone you know has been affected with psoriasis, you know that it is much more than just a rash or a skin condition. Here’s are some facts about living with psoriasis:
- Psoriatic disease is an autoimmune disorder that manifests visibly on the skin.
- It can be very uncomfortable, itchy, burning and painful.
- It can inhibit social contact not only due to appearance but also because of the common assumption that it is contagious.
- It also increases the risk of other very serious health conditions. “Due to this increased risk, it is all the more important for patients to exercise, eat healthy and focus on maintaining a healthy weight and diet.” advises Dr. Betsy Wernli of Forefront Dermatology in Manitowoc, Wisconsin
National Psoriasis Awareness Month
The good news is that while we haven’t found a cure for psoriatic disease yet, we do know there are steps you can take to improve your health. That is the theme this year for National Psoriasis Awareness Month. This important national observance is every August and is sponsored by the The National Psoriasis Foundation, a non-profit organization with a mission to drive efforts to cure psoriatic disease and improve the lives of those who are affected by psoriasis physically, emotionally and socially on a daily basis.
Daily Living with Psoriasis
For the community of people affected by psoriasis, there is a strong focus on the big picture, looking forward to the beneficial results of psoriatic disease research to find a cure. However, just as importantly, the focus is also on the day to day aspect of living with this challenging condition. Despite that challenge, taking small steps to improve your overall health can have a very positive effect, helping you to feel much better on a daily basis. This is the idea behind this year’s Psoriasis Awareness Month Wellness Challenge which is a month full of positive and practical wellness tips just for those who are trying to live a life that’s as healthy and happy as possible, while struggling to manage this disease. If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with psoriasis, this month is a great opportunity to share stories, experiences, hope and even our own wellness tips with one another. If you are experiencing symptoms but you’re not sure if it’s psoriasis or not, it’s important to get a diagnosis as soon as possible along with a personalized treatment plan if needed. At this time there are several treatment options available for relieving the symptoms of psoriasis plus some are currently in development. “The newer “biologic” treatments for psoriasis are an exciting advance in treatment.” says Dr. Michelle Chambers of Forefront Dermatology in Columbus Ohio. To get an accurate diagnosis or to determine treatment options are best for you, always consult with an experienced dermatologist. At Forefront Dermatology we understand the impact psoriasis can have on your life. Give us a call at (855) 535-7175 to get more information on psoriasis, or to make an appointment at any of our locations.
Healthy Hair & Nails
Dermatology is usually most associated with your skin, but did you know that dermatologists also diagnose and treat conditions involving your hair and nails? Generally, healthy hair and nails reflect good overall health however sometimes we come across conditions and even diseases that specifically affect these areas alone. Dandruff is common and can be a nuisance but it can also be a symptom of something more serious. Some skin conditions can present on the scalp, like psoriasis or eczema, which can be diagnosed by a dermatologist. Hair Loss is also a common concern that has many causes including recent childbirth. Most people experiencing hair loss are wondering if the amount of hair loss is normal or excessive and whether it is temporary or not. It does sometimes stop on its own but a dermatologist can help explain possible causes and treatment options. Lice is usually associated with school age children but anyone, despite good hygiene is at risk. It can turn into a recurring problem unless properly treated.
Healthy Hair Tips
- How often should you wash your hair? Wash and condition your hair according to your particular hair and scalp type. The frequency should depend on how oily or dry your hair and scalp tends to be. For example, an oily scalp will require more frequent shampooing. Let that be your guide.
- When choosing products for your hair, also keep in mind your natural scalp and hair type, the same as you would when choosing a product for your skin type. For example, a dry scalp or dry hair will benefit from a more moisture rich product.
- Swimming is good for your health but chlorine is not healthy for your hair. It can be pretty damaging so if you do swim in a chlorinated pool, make sure to protect your hair as much as possible. Before getting in the pool, thoroughly wet and condition your hair and put it under a good fitting swim cap.
A few of the more common nail conditions are ingrown nails and nail fungus. Ingrown nails can cause infection and be very painful. Nail fungus is a fungal infection that can also be very painful. Both of these conditions should be treated by an experienced dermatologist. If you have poor circulation or diabetes it is especially important to pay attention to the health of your nails.
Healthy Nail Tips
- Don’t bite your nails, remove cuticles or try to dig out an ingrown toenail on your own. These can all lead to nail damage.
- If you go to a nail salon for a manicure and/or pedicure, make sure that they are following very strict disinfection and cleanliness guidelines. You can do this by taking a good look around you and asking questions.
- If you’ll be swimming at a public pool this summer, wear flip flops to prevent risk of fungal infections. This is also a good idea if you’ll be using a public shower at your gym.
If you are noticing issues and observing changes in the health of your hair or nails, make an appointment to see a dermatologist. Forefront Dermatology diagnoses and treats all diseases of the skin, hair and nails with the most innovative technology and treatment protocols available. We currently have over 55 locations to serve you throughout the United States. If you have questions about your hair or nail health call (855) 535-7175 to make an appointment with one of highly experienced dermatologists.
Skin Care and Women’s Health
This week is National Women’s Health Week. The goal of the week is to empower women to make their health a priority and to help women understand what steps can be taken to start improving their health. Even though our skin is our largest organ, sometimes it’s easy to forget about that fact when it comes to our health routines and annual checkups. Also, as women we are often so busy caring for the health of our families that it is easy to forget to prioritize our own health care. Women are more at risk than men for several health problems including skin conditions. Here are a few skin issues that women in particular need to be aware of:
Skin Cancer
The American Cancer Society reports that even though the risk of melanoma increases as we age, it is in fact one of the most common cancers in young adults, especially young women. Women under the age of 45 are at a higher risk compared to men of the same age group.
Indoor Tanning
Studies show that indoor tanning increases the risk of melanoma by 75%. The Archives of Dermatology reports that in the U.S. more than twice as many women use tanning beds compared to men and that the indoor tanning industry is still growing rapidly, attracting more than 30 million people, primarily women.
Pregnancy
Some skin conditions appear during times when there is a hormonal shift and pregnancy is one of those times. One of more common skin concerns during pregnancy is stretch marks, but the change in hormones during this time can temporarily affect your skin in other ways too. For example, melasma is a skin condition more common in women than men and so common during pregnancy that it’s often referred to as the ‘mask of pregnancy’.
Acne
Another condition that can be heavily influenced by hormones is acne. Although common in both sexes, certain subsets of acne can be exacerbated by female hormones. Female pattern acne can actually be treated with different medications than male acne.
Aging
Keeping a youthful appearance is a concern for many women and reflected by the fact that the majority of anti-aging products are purchased by women. With the growing amount of products on the market, services available and information on the subject, it can get confusing. The best advice will come from consulting with a trusted dermatologist who can help you sift through it all and make the healthiest decisions.
Autoimmunity
There are certain autoimmune diseases that women are more prone to get. There are many skin manifestations of autoimmunity so if any concerns develop you should contact a board-certified dermatologist to be evaluated.
“I treat many women for both medical and cosmetic dermatology concerns. My biggest recommendation is to use a daily facial moisturizer with SPF 30 or more. Sun exposure is constant and daily. We get Sun exposure even through a car window. If you want to protect against skin cancer, wrinkles and premature aging, and dyspigmentation, I recommend protecting at all times with sunscreen. I also recommend a nightly retinoid cream. Women tend to struggle with acne and premature aging. This nightly regimen combats both problems. I personally use a nightly retinoid on my face and a retinoid eye cream. My last recommendation is to cleanse the face with a gentle cleanser twice a day, especially before bedtime to remove all make up and facial products.” ~ Betsy J. Wernli, MD True skin care involves recognizing the importance of caring for our skin as much as any other part of our body. At Forefront Dermatology, we encourage all women to include your skin as an integral part of your overall health. Perform a monthly skin self exam and make an appointment for your annual skin exam with a dermatologist. To schedule your yearly checkup with one our highly qualified dermatologists or for more information on improving the health of your skin, call us at (855) 535-7175.
Spring Skin Health: Simple Tips for Glowing Skin
With winter coming to a close, your skin has probably taken a beating from the long months of cold, dry, harsh and windy weather. Moving into spring, the environmental changes about to ensue can wreak havoc on your skin. Not only will you need to nurse your winter skin back to health, you should also be preparing for the springtime climate changes on their way. There are a few things you can start doing today that will repair and prepare your skin for the spring season.
Hydrate
During the wintertime, our bodies soak up less moisture, so it’s important to increase your water consumption as we move into spring. Hydrating from the inside out will not only leave you feeling less parched, but will improve the look, feel and quality of your skin. To increase the amount of water you consume, try drinking at least eight 8-ounce glasses of water every day, eat fresh fruits and vegetables that contain a lot of water and watch out for the high-sodium foods.
Use Your SPF
Daily use of sunblock will help protect your skin year round. Though still very important in winter, as the sun begins to come out more often, it is crucial to use sunscreen during the spring season. Sunscreen will help protect your skin against harmful UV rays that not only cause permanent damage, but potentially dangerous skin cancers like melanoma. Try using an SPF containing tinted moisturizer on your face. Keep a spray sunscreen with you for easy, convenient body application. Aim for an SPF 30 or higher.
Exfoliate
During the winter months, your skin can become dry and flaky, making spring the perfect time to whip out that salt scrub. Exfoliating your skin once a week will shed dead skin and give your skin a beautiful glow in time for the warm weather. In addition to getting rid of excess dead skin, exfoliation will help clear pores of excess oil and dirt. Be sure to avoid over-exfoliation by only exfoliating once a week so as not to irritate skin. Try to stick to scrubs that don’t contain any harsh chemicals or ingredients that could put micro-tears in the skin.
Moisturize
Like we said before, locking moisture into your skin is crucial to its health. As we head into spring, the air will begin to contain more moisture, which will in turn benefit your skin. You will no longer need the heavy winter creams, but a light moisturizer is still recommended. Try swapping out your heavy foundation for a lighter tinted moisturizer like BB or CC creams that contain SPF coverage. In addition to using a moisturizer, you may want to invest in a good humidifier. A humidifier in the home will keep a constant flow of humidity to help prevent your skin from drying out.
Conscious Bathing
Be careful when bathing in hot water for excessive amounts of time. This can strip your skin of its natural oils. Try showering for no more than 10 minutes at a time, using water at a lower-degree temperature.
Evaluate your cleansers
Soaking your skin with hot water can be drying, and the cleansers you’re using can take its toll as well. Read the ingredient label on your skin care products. If your cleansers have drying chemicals like sodium lauryl sulfate, it may be time to explore other options. Try to stick to a gentle, all natural soap that won’t be too harsh. Also keep in mind that most skincare products should be discarded after about 12 months.
Listen to your skin
Your skin is one of the most important organs in the body and the first line of defense against disease. Make sure that you are keeping it healthy and stay on the lookout for any warning signs that there could be an issue. Redness, flakes and blisters can all be signs you should not ignore. If you or someone you know is experiencing signs of seasonal skin irritation, give the skin experts at Forefront Dermatology a call today at (855) 535-7175 to schedule an appointment.
Winter Skin Health Tips for Surviving the Cold Weather
Your Winter Skin Health Tips
Winter has come early! December 21st marks the first official day of winter, but this year many parts of the United States have already experienced cold dry air, freezing temperatures and snow. Heaters and electric blankets are working overtime, and your skin is paying the price. To keep you looking and feeling your best, the dermatologists in Grand Rapids, Michigan offer these winter skin health tips to help you avoid seasonal dry skin.
More is better when it comes to moisturizing
Your favorite summer moisturizer might have gotten you through the fall months, but to avoid dull, dry skin during the winter it’s time for a change. Look for moisturizers that are oil-based: they provide the skin with a protective layer that helps hold in moisture. When it comes to winter moisturizing, more is better. Do you typically moisturize in the mornings? Add to your routine and apply moisturizer again at night before you go to bed. While you sleep, your skin is resting and repairing, and this nighttime application of moisturizer supports your skin’s restorative work. Don’t forget the sunscreen! It might not be 85 degrees outside, but the sun’s rays are still damaging to your skin. During the day, use a moisturizer that contains sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher.
Winterize your skin care routine
Cold winter weather is often the culprit when it comes to dry skin; don’t add to the problem with products that further irritate and cause skin dryness. Now’s the time of year to ditch the products that contain alcohol, alpha-hydroxy acids and benzoyl peroxide and replace them with products that moisturize and soothe the skin. Look for gentle skin cleansers, alcohol-free toners and hydrating facial masks. Change up the frequency of your skin care routine. It’s important to keep your skin clean, but during the winter months less-frequent washing and deep cleansing treatments can help prevent irritated, dry skin and acne breakouts.
Skip the long, hot shower
During the winter it might feel good to soak in the tub or take a long, hot shower, but a warm bath might be the better answer. Prolonged exposure to hot water breaks down the protective oils on the skin, leaving it tight and dry. Keep your baths and showers short, and use warm water and a mild cleansing product to help prevent over-drying your skin during the winter months. Also, consider using a moisturizing soap or shower gel that is gentle on the skin and doesn’t strip away the natural oils. Using a product that contains oatmeal can help soothe the skin while bathing.
Beat winter hands down
The skin on our hands is thinner and has fewer oil glands than other areas of our body. This, along with frequent hand washing and the harsh winter environment, often take a toll on our hands, resulting in dry, cracked skin. Using a moisturizer designed for the skin on our hands can help eliminate this problem. Hand lotion is designed to be thicker and form a long-lasting protective barrier. Choose a product that contains sunscreen and reapply it often throughout the day, especially after you have washed your hands. Using an oil-based hand cream at night can help you wake up with soft skin in the morning. Do you have a question about the best winter skin care products? Are you experiencing a flare-up of seasonal acne or eczema? The skin health professionals at Forefront Dermatology are your partners for winter skin health, offering personalized treatments to meet your needs. To make an appointment, call 855-535-7175 or you can request your appointment online.
About Forefront Dermatology
Forefront Dermatology is the best dermatology practice in the United States with numerous convenient locations. We diagnose and treat skin cancer and all diseases of the skin, hair and nails; such as acne, warts, rashes, rosacea, skin cancer, psoriasis, eczema, and mole and cyst removal. With a diverse group of dermatologists, we are able to provide patients timely access to a diverse collection of expertise, such as Mohs micrographic skin cancer surgery, dermatopathology and pediatric dermatology. In addition to our medical expertise, our experienced dermatologists also offer the latest cosmetic procedures to help revitalize and rejuvenate your skin, such as cosmetic filler treatments with Dysport, Juvederm and Radiesse as well as Botox. We also offer a wide variety of chemical peels that allow us to tailor a treatment that is right for your specific skin condition. Your skin is the largest organ of the body, protecting you from many environmental stresses. Leave it to our team of experts and the best dermatology in your neighborhood to help keep your skin healthy and looking its best. We encourage you to browse our website for information on our locations, dermatologists and treatment options. Did you like this post? Please leave a comment below. Join our online communities on Facebook, Twitter, Google+ and LinkedIn.
Holiday Skin Health Survival by Dermatologists
Your Holiday Skin Health Survival Guide
The holiday season has arrived. So have the parties, shopping, family gatherings and the office cookie exchange. It’s a wonderful time of year, but the stress, rich foods and long days can take their toll on your skin. With a little help from the experts at Forefront Dermatology and their Holiday Skin Health Survival Guide, you can keep your skin glowing all season long.
Survival Guide for Healthful Holiday Skin
- Combat dry winter skin with an oil-based moisturizer
- Limit the alcohol: enjoy your favorite bubbly then switch to water
- Keep your skin clean: remove all your makeup before going to bed
- Get a good night’s sleep: target 8 hours a night
- Make healthy food choices, limiting the cookies and holiday desserts
- Practice relaxation: the holidays can be stressful, which can exacerbate psoriasis, acne and other chronic skin conditions
- Treat yourself to a professional facial before attending that big holiday event
- Stay hydrated: drinking plenty of water keeps you healthy from the inside out
- Stick to your exercise routine: it helps with stress and working off those extra holiday calories
- If you’re a smoker, make a New Year’s resolution to quit; in fact, why wait: quit now!
- Help prevent acne flare-ups by maintaining your daily skin care routine
- Keep hand cream and lip balm in your purse or pocket, and use it often
- Don’t forget your feet: moisturize nightly and be ready for those fun holiday shoes
- Exfoliate once a week to keep that head-to-toe healthy glow
Don’t let the stress of the holidays show on your skin. The dermatologists in Cedar Rapids, Iowa are your partners in skin health, offering advanced care personalized for your needs. Call 855-535-7175 to make an appointment or schedule online. The entire team at Forefront Dermatology wishes you and your family the happiest of holidays.
About Forefront Dermatology
Forefront Dermatology is the best dermatology practice in the United States with numerous convenient locations. We diagnose and treat skin cancer and all diseases of the skin, hair and nails; such as acne, warts, rashes, rosacea, skin cancer, psoriasis, eczema, and mole and cyst removal. With a diverse group of dermatologists, we are able to provide patients timely access to a diverse collection of expertise, such as Mohs micrographic skin cancer surgery, dermatopathology and pediatric dermatology. In addition to our medical expertise, our experienced dermatologists also offer the latest cosmetic procedures to help revitalize and rejuvenate your skin, such as cosmetic filler treatments with Dysport, Juvederm and Radiesse as well as Botox. We also offer a wide variety of chemical peels that allow us to tailor a treatment that is right for your specific skin condition. Your skin is the largest organ of the body, protecting you from many environmental stresses. Leave it to our team of experts and the best dermatology in your neighborhood to help keep your skin healthy and looking its best. We encourage you to browse our website for information on our locations, dermatologists and treatment options. Did you like this post? Please leave a comment below. Join our online communities on Facebook, Twitter, Google+ and LinkedIn.