Frequently Asked Questions
At Dermatology Medical Associates we strive to maintain a welcoming and comfortable environment for each person who walks through our doors. Having a better understanding of dermatology and skin care topics can help you feel more at ease, whether you're visiting our office or simply seeking to take better care of your skin.
If you will be visiting us for the first time, be sure to check out our Patient Forms page.
Dermatologists are doctors who specialize in the treatment of skin, hair, nails, and mucus membranes. Anyone can see a dermatologist, from children to adults over 100 years of age. Dermatologists can diagnose and treat thousands of diseases including, but not limited to:
- Eczema
- Skin cancer
- Acne
- Nail infections
- Psoriasis
Even if you aren't suffering from a skin condition or disease, you may be interested in the many ways dermatologists can improve the appearance of your skin, including:
- Diminishing acne scars
- Reducing wrinkles
- Reducing age spots
Dermatology Medical Associates recommends using broad spectrum sunscreens (protecting against both UVA and UVB) regularly when exposed to sunlight. Your sunscreen should have an SPF of at least 30 (higher numbers do not necessarily protect more than properly applied 30 SPF sunscreens).
When applying sunscreen, we recommend one ounce to cover an average adult body. Even if you are not swimming, reapplication every 2-3 hours is highly recommended.
Luckily skin cancer is treatable when caught early. Knowing what to look for and how to take care of your skin can have a great impact on preventing and treating skin cancer.
While anyone can be susceptible to skin cancer, there are certain factors that can increase your risk or developing it, including:
- Fair skin and light colored hair
- Past sun burns
- Family history of skin cancer
- Having a weakened immune system
- Skin with many freckles and/or moles
Unfortunalely, the amount of skin cancer types is increasing in the United States, according to the American Cancer Society. However, there are ways to help prevent your risk of developing skin cancer, such as:
- Wear sunscreen that is 30 SPF or higher and reapply every few hours.
- Wear tightly woven fabrics while in the sun.
- Stay in shaded areas or remain inside from 10 am to 4 pm, when the sun is at its strongest.
- Protect your eyes and the skin around them by wearing sunglasses.
Also know as solar keratosis, Actinic Keratosis is an abnormal growth that occurs as a result of sun damage. Actinic Keratosis, or AK, is one of the most common dermatological conditions and can be brought on by exposure to UV rays from tanning (both naturally and indoor).
While AK is precancerous, it can develop into skin cancer if left untreated. If you think you have AK, we recommend visiting your dermatologist for a checkup to lessen the risk of skin cancer.
Eczema, or Atopic Dermatitis, is a common skin disease that is often inherited and usually affects children. It is often very itchy due to the skin's inability to hold moisture.
While there is no cure for eczema*, there are effective treatments available to lessen the discomfort and to help prevent breakouts. Moisturizers and antihistamines can also be used to relieve the symptoms of mild eczema.
*There are new treatments available such DUPIXENT® and Eucrisa™ for eczema.
Dry skin can be itchy, flakey, and even crack or bleed. Here are a few tips on treating your dry skin and preventing its reoccurrence:
- Take shorter showers and use a small amount of gentle, fragrance free cleanser.
- Apply moisturizer immediately after drying off from your shower or bath, or washing your hands or face.
- Wear lip balm.
- Use gentle, unscented lotions and other skin care products. This includes deodorants and soaps.
- Use a dehumidifier: If you're suffering from dry skin, that means your body needs more moisture, so add moisture to the air in your home or office by using a dehumidifier.
- Go to EWG'S Skin Deep Cosmetic Database for safer skin products.