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By Allison Weber, APRN-C
Often, we find ourselves saying “we’re lucky we caught this in time”, but luck has nothing to do with treating skin cancer. Scheduling 6 or 12-month annual skin exams is an important part to early detection.
Precancerous lesions known as Actinic Keratosis are mostly found on the head, neck and extremities of men and women. They usually appear as a white/yellow flat or thickened scale on these regions. Sometimes people have 1to 2 that can come and go, while others can have many in one specific area. This usually results from a lot of sun damage to this location. The importance of treating these lesions, stems from their potential to turn into a squamous cell carcinoma. It’s very important to let you provider know if you are experiencing any lesions on the skin like this, because fast treatment of them may prevent surgery down the road.
Melanoma is a very serious type of skin cancer, that is important to catch early, due to its ability to spread to the lymphatic system. This type of skin cancer usually appears as an irregular shaped, flat, dark mole, >7 mm in size. I think the biggest misconception is that a bad skin cancer, like melanoma, would have to be raised. A majority of melanomas that we find are usually flat (though a melanoma can still be raised). That being said, a majority of us have multiple brown, flat, moles which are completely normal! This is why It is so important for even younger adults in their 20-30’s to start having annual skin exams at a Dermatology office. Keeping a close eye on moles, and identifying any changes in a mole early, can make a huge different in the patient’s treatment outcome. It is also important to ask immediate family members if they have had any history of melanoma. This is because there have been two genes found that are primarily linked to familial melanoma.
Things to watch for:
A- asymmetry of shape or color
B- border irregularity
C- color change
D- different diameter
E- evolving/changing
At MidState we like to go by the saying self-care is health care, and treating yourself to some top tier treatments can not only improve your physical health, but mental health too. Here are some top recommendations.
To treat acne scars:
• Microneedling: Increases collagen production, which helps with tissue growth and healing. It is important to know you will most likely need 3-4 sessions of microneedling to see optimal results!
• Dermal Filler: While not everyone may be a candidate for this, it’s helpful to know it is an option for deep acne scars! They can be used to raise the scar tissue and give the scars a smoother appearance. And guess what?! For some, the filler can last up to 1 year!
Men need to treat themselves too!!
Neurotoxins like Botox and Dysport are for everyone! All our offices are trained to help achieve the look you are going for. For those only wanting a subtle enhancement, smaller dosing of neurotoxin works surprisingly well. While we do recommend follow ups every 3-4 months, everyone metabolizes the neurotoxin differently, and some may need It sooner, or later than others. Another great option is to come in 1-2 months prior to events. Especially, if this is something you are only able to do for special occasions, it’s still worth it. Neurotoxins are great to help with fine lines and wrinkles, and some may even notice improvement in the texture of their skin.
Our office also offers the Emsculpt Neo. This machine helps to tone muscle, and eliminate fat. It’s like doing 20,000 crunches in 1 session (recommending around 5 sessions). This is a great option for those who are already relatively fit looking for more definition, those looking to kick start their weight loss journey with a stubborn area, and even those recovering from sports injuries to strengthen specific muscle groups. My favorite advice with Emsculpt Neo is to use it as a great wedding prep, to get that little extra definition.
Good skin isn’t about luck. Yes, it is true, some people are just blessed! But that “luck” definitely does not last forever. Many people come into the office saying, “my skin never used to look like this”, “I’ve never had dark spots or freckles all over my face”, and its important to know a good amount of these things can be avoided!
Starting early is key. While everyone’s skin routine may be specific to their own skin type and daily activities, EVERYONE should be wearing sunscreen daily. I always recommend a mineral based sunscreen. My absolute favorite is our ISDIN Eryfotona Ageless tinted sunscreen. Bringing the sunscreen down to the neck, chest, and hands is a must.
Don ‘t leave your skin to luck.
MidState Skin Institute Services:
Medical Dermatology
The science of treating the skin, hair, and nails to relieve or cure skin disorders.
Surgical Dermatology
The practice of dermatology that specializes in surgical procedures & minimally invasive techniques to treat skin cancer.
Cosmetic Dermatology
The practice of improving the look and health of one’s skin through medical or surgical procedures, to help patients look and feel their best.
Aesthetics
Treatment for the skin, hair or body that is meant to enhance the appearance of patients through minimally invasive techniques & personalized topical skin care recommendations.
