Friday, October 9, 2020

Treat Port-Wine Birthmarks Early to Avoid Progression

Homepage // Blog / The Perfect Skincare Procedures In New York to Get Post-Quarantine

Treat Port-Wine Birthmarks Early to Avoid Progression

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The board-certified physicians at the Laser & Skin Surgery Center of New York are world-renowned for their expertise in the treatment of port-wine birthmarks—previously known as port-wine stains—and other vascular malformations. Although we recommend beginning treatment early in infancy, we can also provide comprehensive laser treatments for older children and adults. As a world innovator, our Director Dr. Roy G. Geronemus safely treats children and even newborns and with our center’s 100+ lasers. He customizes port-wine birthmark treatments regardless of the patient’s age or the progression of a port-wine birthmark condition.

While often located in areas that can easily be covered up with clothing, some of these red or wine-colored birthmarks can also develop on the face and darken and/or thicken over time. Large birthmarks can overpower a person’s face, leading to a loss of self-esteem in some cases. These birthmarks can also lead to complications such as hypertrophy and cobblestoning of the skin later on. Fortunately, laser treatments in Manhattan and Southampton are available to eliminate port-wine birthmarks in many cases.

Progression Can Occur When Port-Wine Birthmarks are Left Untreated

Over time, port-wine birthmarks (especially those located on the face), can darken, thicken, and develop raised bumps and ridges. When left untreated, port-wine birthmarks can also result in specific long-term conditions that may need further treatment. Examples include:

Soft tissue hypertrophy – develops when the tissue beneath a port-wine birthmark spreads or enlarges. This occurs most commonly around the lips.
Cobblestoning – skin thickening that develops as a result of malfunctioning capillaries.
Bleeding – the skin of a port-wine birthmark may be prone to bleeding when injured or scratched.
Vascular blebs – grape-like growths of small blood vessels that can develop from port-wine birthmarks. They may bleed and may need to be removed.

Why Early Treatment is Best

Early treatment of port-wine birthmarks during infancy allows for optimal outcomes. Benefits include greater response of the patient to the laser treatment and a lower risk of recurrence. There are several factors that contribute to these positive results:

Skin thickness increases with age. The younger the patient, the better the penetration of the laser energy to the hemoglobin in the port-wine birthmark’s capillaries.
Young infants will have relatively less melanin in the skin, which may be a competing chromophore (the molecule that is responsible for color) for the absorption of laser energy.
Any changes that occur in port-wine birthmarks (e.g., darkening, thickening, increase in size) can make the ability to achieve clearance more difficult.

Dr. Seidenberg understands that it can be quite challenging to break the nail-biting habit. He explains, since these habits are usually unconscious, they are tough to stop for many patients.

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Our physicians have more than thirty years of experience in the treatment of port-wine birthmarks in infants, children, and adults. We see patients across the country and around the world who seek our experience and expertise to treat even more challenging markings. We have participated in numerous studies and have published multiple articles on this subject to help other practitioners treat their patients effectively.

The Laser & Skin Surgery Center of New York has a full research center where Dr. Geronemus has performed numerous published studies about port-wine birthmarks. He believes that early intervention through quick, in-office treatments offers a superior outcome. Dr. Geronemus has also participated in studies that show general anesthesia is not needed when treating port-wine birthmarks on infants, helping ensure safe outcomes. He is a board member of the Vascular Birthmark Association and works with families and other doctors to address vascular birthmarks and tumors.

Treatment For Port-Wine Birthmarks

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We provide excellent medical and cosmetic treatments for a wide variety of skin conditions and aesthetic concerns. In particular, we offer a dedicated portion of our practice to treating patients of all ages with port-wine birthmarks. Laser treatment for infants can be safe and effective, especially when performed by a specialist such as Dr. Geronemus. Our Manhattan, New York office is also designed with families and young children in mind, making all of our patients feel comfortable and welcome.

Due to the wavelength at which a laser operates, a pulsed dye laser, which is the most commonly used laser for port-wine birthmark treatment, is able to effectively treat the affected area without harming the surrounding skin. In this video, Dr. Geronemus demonstrates the safety and efficacy of the laser treatment using balloons as a visual aid, showing how he is able to pop the red balloon with the laser without affecting the white outer balloon.

Our physicians have developed many, if not most, of the laser technology available today for the treatment of birthmarks, and we continually offer the most advanced treatments for our patients in this constantly evolving field. At the Laser & Skin Surgery Center of New York, we utilize a variety of different lasers for the treatment of port-wine birthmarks including the V-Beam Prima, V-Beam Perfecta, GentleLase, Alexandrite, Nd:Yag, and Excel V lasers. We are also currently investigating new technologies for the treatment of port-wine birthmarks.

Schedule an Appointment Today

The Laser & Skin Surgery Center of New York offers the most effective techniques and treatments available today for port-wine birthmarks. We would be happy to schedule a consultation to discuss your concerns and to create a customized treatment plan to produce the best results for you. To learn more, contact our Manhattan, New York office.

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Wednesday, September 9, 2020

Should You Add Retinoids to Your Skincare Regimen?

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Should You Add Retinoids to Your Skincare Regimen?

Retinoids have created quite a buzz in the skincare industry in recent years. While they aren’t new, their popularity has grown exponentially recently the benefits as both an acne and wrinkle treatment have been widely touted. Would retinoids enhance your current skincare regimen?

Dr. Elliot Weiss of the Laser & Skin Surgery Center of New York and head of our Southampton office recently shared his expertise on retinoids. He explains what they do, who should use them, and how they should be used. This information can help you determine whether retinoids should become a regular part of your skincare program.

What are retinoids?

Retinoids are derivatives of vitamin A. There is a wide range of retinoids available, ranging from low concentrations you can find over the counter to higher concentrations that are only available by prescription. All retinoids work in a similar fashion, but higher concentrations tend to work faster and produce more dramatic improvement in the skin.

What are retinoid’s main functions?

Topical retinoids offer numerous benefits to the skin. These molecules help to regulate the growth and differentiation of healthy skin cells. With repeated use, many functions of retinoids become visually apparent. In an interview with CNN Underscored, Dr. Weiss explained that retinoids are used to:

Boost collagen production in the skin
Reduce areas of excess pigmentation
Smooth out areas of skin roughness
Decrease markers for photo damage in the skin
Reduce inflammation around the follicle

When these functions occur, damage to the skin can be reversed. This includes damage due to acne or the aging process. The result is skin that is firmer with fewer wrinkles, more evenly pigmented, smoother, and with less acne.

Can anyone use a retinoid, or are there people who just can’t tolerate it?

While there are many great benefits to gain from retinol, there are also side effects that can be problematic for some users. The issues most associated with topical retinoids are redness, flaking, stinging and dryness. Some patients who have particularly sensitive skin may not be able to tolerate using any of these formulations.

Even if a patient experiences some of the side effects in the beginning, with proper use their skin may be able to adjust to the program. With retinoids, unlike other topical creams, more is not better. Retinoids should be started at the lowest concentration and at the lowest interval. Over the course of weeks, these products can be slowly applied more often and/or at higher concentrations if side effects do not occur. Many patients who are “intolerant” of retinoids have simply not allowed their skin to properly acclimate.

Can you describe what the average acclimation period entails?

Lip licking and biting are also habits that can affect both how we look and how we feel.

The acclimation period can vary from person to person. It usually takes 1-2 months to fully acclimate, depending on the person. The process begins by applying a low concentration to the face once, or maybe twice, weekly. This schedule is continued for a couple of weeks.

If no excessive irritation occurs during that initial time frame, the frequency of application can be increased from 1-2 times a week to 2-3 times per week. If this routine is also completed without excessive irritation, the frequency can be increased further.

This process continues until either the patient is using it daily without problems or reaches a frequency of application that is tolerable. Slight pink color and dryness is common and not a significant concern during the acclimation process. However, more significant irritation, dryness, or stinging should be a signal to take a break or decrease frequency.

How should one be using a retinoid in their routine?

The frequency of retinoid use depends on the condition and needs of the skin. However, most of us could use a collagen boost. We can also benefit from a more even skin tone and a smoother appearance to the skin. Dr. Weiss believes that finding a retinoid that can be tolerated at least two, maybe three times a week is beneficial for most patients.

A retinoid should be applied at night and washed off in the morning. Dr. Weiss usually instructs patients to avoid moisturizing after applying a retinoid because it can spread the product onto sensitive areas that patients should avoid, like the eyelids. If needed, patients can apply a small amount of moisturizer to their face and then apply the retinoid to prevent irritation of more sensitive skin.

Should people be using specific retinoids for acne and others for aging?

Most retinoids have similar effects in the long term regarding aging or acne. For acne specifically, there are over the counter retinoids, such as adapalene, that are less irritating and more suited for acne or sensitive skin. Formulations that have more emollients will tend to be more tolerable for dry skin. For someone who is acne prone and has oily skin, some decreased oil production due to the retinoid can be beneficial.

Are there any preferred retinol or retinoid products?

Dr. Weiss uses many of the prescription tretinoin at varying concentrations, depending on the specific needs of each of his patients. His favorite over-the-counter option is the Alastin retinol products. These come in different concentrations and have formulations that tend to be less irritating.

Contact Us for Additional Rejuvenation Treatment Options

While retinoids are an effective topical treatment patients can use at home, they cannot replace a professional procedure performed by an experienced, board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon. Whether you want to manage your acne or ward off signs of aging, we have nonsurgical treatments to help. From injectables to laser devices, we will customize your treatment plan to help you achieve the best possible results. Contact the Laser & Skin Surgery Center of New York at our Southampton office today to learn more.

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Thursday, August 27, 2020

Wear A Mask But Ditch the Maskne (Mask Acne)

Homepage // Blog / The Perfect Skincare Procedures In New York to Get Post-Quarantine

Wear A Mask But Ditch the Maskne (Mask Acne)

You’re diligent about wearing your mask during errands, work, and play to protect yourself and others from COVID-19, but that diligence has come with a price: You’re breaking out around your nose, mouth, and chin.

“Maskne” — or mask-induced acne — isn’t a new thing. At least, not for medical professionals. Women and men who wear masks for their jobs have been battling this type of contact acne for decades. Healthcare workers on the frontline of the pandemic have reported multiple skin issues related to their constant use of masks, shields, and gloves.

The good news is, unlike the novel coronavirus, we know a lot about maskne, including why you get it and how to prevent it. Our expert dermatologists here at Laser Skin Surgery Center of New York, located in Manhattan and Southampton, believe you should have beautiful skin that you feel good in, no matter what the situation is outside. If you’re battling maskne while you’re shielding yourself from coronavirus, here’s what you need to know to keep your skin clear while staying safe.

Masks = Friction

If you’ve ever played sports that required protective gear, you might already have experience with contact acne. When a piece of equipment (or a mask) rubs against your skin for a long time, the friction can cause enough irritation to trigger a breakout of acne.

Add moistness caused by sweat or, in the case of masks, exhalations, and you have a perfect environment to grow the types of bacteria that feast on the oils and dead skin in your pores. Next step: inflammation and a breakout. The friction and irritation from a mask could also trigger a flare of rosacea or eczema.

Masks = Mouth Underwear

You change your underwear daily and wash it before re-wearing. Use the same level of hygiene for your mask. If you have to wear a mask all day for your job, you might consider changing your mask at least once or twice a day.

Underwear’s a good analogy when thinking of fabrics, too. While an N95 mask gives you the most protection, they aren’t necessary or appropriate for consumer wear.

The best non-medical masks utilize natural, breathable fabrics, such as cotton and silk, rather than thin layers of synthetic fabrics. Thinking about a neck gaiter? Think again. The Washington Post reported that they’re worse for protecting others than no mask at all because they break respiratory droplets into smaller particles. An ideal mask would consist of three layers of natural fabric that covers your mouth area and nose completely.

Be gentle with your skin

Now’s the time for a more gentle skincare routine. Gently clean your skin no more than twice per day with a non-irritating, non-comedogenic cleanser that’s formulated for your skin type. Ask your dermatologist to make a recommendation if you’re not sure which cleanser is best for you.

Wear a light moisturizer

You might guess that wearing heavy skin products under your mask increases your chance of a breakout. You guessed right. Avoid heavy make-up or greasy lotions, which trap moisture and increase the risk of irritation or a breakout.

But wearing a light moisturizer or sunscreen can help reduce friction and also protect your skin. Our dermatologists recommend medical-grade skincare based on your unique skin type and needs. We offer top brands, including EltaMD, SkinMedica, and Alastin.

One of the benefits of wearing a mask is that it intensifies the delivery of whatever skincare you’re wearing. So you get more hydration from a light moisturizer than you otherwise would. That’s also a reason to skip intense skin treatments, such as retinoids and retinol, on your lower face. The enclosed environment of the mask could make these ingredients too irritating.

Don’t forget the sunscreen

Although sunscreen is always important, whether we’re in the midst of a pandemic or not, you really don’t want to neglect to protect your skin while you’re outside wearing a mask. The fabric acts as a sun shield, which could mean that you’d be left with a suntanned upper face and paler lower face. Not a look you’d like to sport indoors, mask off.

Treat your maskne

picosure laser acne treatment in new york

Just because your lower face isn’t public right now, doesn’t mean you have to tolerate pimples, cystic acne, rosacea, or irritation. Our team complies with the CDC’s COVID-19 protocols to ensure your safety when you come in for an office visit. If you have maskne, our dermatologists will examine your skin and recommend therapies, such as topical or oral medications and in-office treatments.

If left untreated, acne can leave scars. Our physicians use a wide variety of lasers and devices to treat acne scars. You can expect to see some improvement immediately after a laser treatment, but most patients require more than one session to achieve the optimal outcome.

Schedule A Consultation With Laser Skin Surgery Center

Don’t suffer silently under your mask. Get your acne or rosacea under control at Laser Skin Surgery Center of New York today. Contact the office nearest you.

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Thursday, August 20, 2020

How to Break Bad Habits for Healthier Lips and Nails

Homepage // Blog / The Perfect Skincare Procedures In New York to Get Post-Quarantine

How to Break Bad Habits for Healthier Lips and Nails

Habits like biting your nails or lip can affect your health as well as your appearance. Despite the downsides, many people find that breaking these habits is much easier said than done.

Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Roy Seidenberg of the Laser & Skin Surgery Center of New York in New York City says it is not unusual for dermatologists to encounter nail and lip biting when seeing patients. He has information about the short and long-term effects of these habits, as well as ideas on how to break them.

Nail Biting: Why We Do It

Nail biting, also known as onychophagia, appears to be an especially common habit in people who stare at their computers all day, according to Dr. Seidenberg. For many, it acts as a stress reliever. While Dr. Seidenberg acknowledges there are worse habits, nail-biting can lead to some unpleasant changes.

Nail-biting often begins in childhood and may be attributed to stress, anxiety, or boredom. While it is usually nothing more than a bad habit, there are cases where nail-biting is a sign of a more serious psychological or emotional problem. The American Academy of Dermatology encourages chronic nail biters to see their doctor for further assessment if they can’t break the pattern on their own.

Consequences of Nail Biting

Although nail-biting isn’t a dangerous problem, it can create some health issues. Roy Seidenberg, MD explains that the cuticles normally act as a sealant between the skin at the base of the nail, known as the proximal nailfold, and the nail. Destruction of the cuticle allows dirt, bacteria, and chemical irritants to get under the skin.

An infection or inflammation of the nail or nailfold is called a paronychia. If bacteria gets under the skin, it could cause a bacterial infection or abscess. An acute bacterial infection would present with redness, pain, and swelling around the nail. Treatment usually requires cutting and drainage of the pus and/or antibiotics.

When detergents and other irritants get under the nailfold, it causes inflammation. Over time, this will cause the skin to become thickened and red, an inflammatory paronychia. The inflammation can lead to chronic loss of the cuticle. A possible consequence of this is a chronic paronychia from yeast (Candida).

Since the nail starts growing right under the nailfold, the nail may begin to grow abnormally. If severe or chronic, this can result in a permanently abnormal nail.

Stop Biting Your Nails

Dr. Seidenberg understands that it can be quite challenging to break the nail-biting habit. He explains, since these habits are usually unconscious, they are tough to stop for many patients. Finding a topical that is non-toxic, will stay on, won’t irritate the skin, and will actually act as a deterrent is difficult. Moisturizing the skin is essential, and an ointment like Aquaphor may act as a deterrent as well. Dr. Seidenberg usually prescribes topical cortisone for the inflamed, thickened skin to reverse the process, and minimize any permanent damage.

Other ideas to help you kick the habit might include:

Identifying your triggers – for example, if stress leads to nail-biting, prepare for your next stress-inducing moment with an alternative, like squeezing a stress ball
Cutting your nails – you will be less likely to bite short nails
Getting a professional manicure – when your nails look nice, you will also be less likely to bite them
Changing the taste – use a bitter-tasting nail polish designed specifically for this purpose

Lip Biting: Why We Do It

Lip licking and biting are also habits that can affect both how we look and how we feel. Lip licking is most common in patients with dry skin or eczema, sometimes caused by an underlying irritant or allergic contact dermatitis. Ironically, chronic licking and biting makes the problem worse, and it turns into a progressive cycle. The skin becomes drier, cracked, red, and thickened.

Lip biting, like nail-biting, can become a persistent habit. It is a common anxiety symptom and people often do it subconsciously. This can make it even more challenging to reverse the pattern. We often treat patients in our New York City office that have experienced uncomfortable consequences of this habit.

The Problem with Lip Biting

Not everyone will experience issues with lip biting. However, persistent biters may see some of the following symptoms occur.

Regular lip biting causes breaks in the tissue that could possibly leave scars behind. The trauma could potentially result in a cold sore outbreak since breaks in the skin can make a person more susceptible to acquiring a cold sore infection. Residual scarring from lip biting can be treated with a laser in our office in many cases.

Biting of the lip can also cause a rupture or blockage of a salivary gland. This manifests as a nodule in the lip called a mucocele. While not serious, they usually get in the way and keep getting bitten so they take a while to resolve. Mucoceles can be drained or cut off, but recurrences are high.

How to Break the Lip Biting Habit

It’s not easy to stop biting the lip if this is something you have done regularly for some time. Some tips that might help you break the habit include:

Moisturizing your lips multiple times a day to prevent them from getting dry and chapped
Exfoliating to remove loose skin and keep lips smooth, moisturize immediately after exfoliation
Practicing awareness that helps you tune into when you bite your lips so you can make a conscious effort to stop
Finding healthy ways to manage stress so you are less likely to fall back into this habit

Stop Your Nail and Lip Biting Today

Dermatologists don’t solely focus on the skin – they are also experts in treating the nails and the lips. New York City residents that need help getting their nails or lips in top condition can schedule a consultation with one of our board-certified dermatologists at the Laser & Skin Surgery Center of New York.

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