Central Florida Health and Wellness Magazine Health and Wellness Articles of the Villages
Related Articles
By Allison Weber, APRN-C
The cost of treatment will always outweigh the cost of prevention. This holds especially true when it comes to your skin. Once a skin condition has set in, it’s exponentially harder to get rid of. Let’s take a look at some of the costs to prevent these skin issues vs. the cost of treatment.
Melasma and sun spots are common in our beautiful sunshine state. Typically found on the cheeks, nose, forehead and chin, melasma or sun spots are dark grey/brown patches. Prevention starts early, and it’s simple- sunscreen! Choosing a broadband, SPF 30 or higher product with zinc/titanium dioxide and applying it every 2 hours might be the easiest prevention tip we have. Allison Weber, APRN-C at MidState, says her favorite SPF is EltaMD. Treatment for melasma/sun spots can take months, and involve a plethora of options such as prescription topical hydroquinone ($10-100), topical retinoids ($50+), cosmetic peels ($90+), Vitamin C ($20+) and tranexamic acid ($20+). It’s important to note, some forms of melasma are hormonal and may not be preventable.
Wrinkles are a natural part of aging; we can’t change our DNA. However, there are many factors that can speed up aging skin such as excessive exposure to UV rays, smoking, dehydration and pollutants. Prevention of wrinkles should involve daily sunscreen ($10+), a consistent skincare routine ($20-100) and a healthy lifestyle. Additionally, starting preventative neurotoxins like Botox early on can lessen the amount of neurotoxin that’s needed ($100+), and also the number of areas to be treated. Late treatment of wrinkles can almost double the cost of your skin care regime. Not to mention, not keeping up with your health may result in more than just a trip to the dermatologist. Treatment of deep, set in lines could require more product resulting in higher costs ($300+) and additional treatments.
Dyshidrotic eczema is a form of eczema that shows up on the hands or feet, and causes tiny, intensely itchy blisters. For most people, having dyshidrotic eczema falls somewhere between having it once (3-4 weeks) and living with the chronic, debilitating condition. Moisturizer plays a key role in helping your skin heal, and stay healthy. Dermatologists recommend you use a fragrance-free ointment or cream (not lotion) to help prevent skin from reaching the point of severe irritation. A MidState favorite is CeraVe Moisturizing Cream that can be found at your local drug store for $10-15. Alternatively, treating dyshidrotic eczema can involve prescription topical treatments, multiple visits to the dermatologist and steroid injections. Depending on insurance and severity you could be looking at months of treatment and $100’s.
Consistency is key. Keeping up with your skin care is health care. Once a day care adds up to weekly, monthly and yearly benefits. Conversely, neglecting your skin can add up as well. Put the time into yourself, it’s a good return on investment.
Splurge Worthy-
1. Dr. Brandt – No More Baggage
2. Neocutis – Bio Cream
3. Neocutis – Lumiere
4. EltaMD – Barrier Renewal Complex
5. EltaMD – So Silky Hand Cream
6. EltaMD – UV Broadband SPF
Splurge Worthy-
1. Dr. Brandt – No More Baggage
2. Neocutis – Bio Cream
3. Neocutis – Lumiere
4. EltaMD – Barrier Renewal Complex
5. EltaMD – So Silky Hand Cream
6. UV Broadband SPF
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.
