Do you have thick, scaly patches on your skin? You may have psoriasis.

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that affects over 7 million Americans. It causes itchy patches and scales that can impact your physical appearance.

Psoriasis isn’t just skin deep. It can also affect your emotional well-being, self-confidence, and quality of life. Getting treatment can help address the visible symptoms of psoriasis and help you attain clearer, healthier skin.

Keep reading to learn more about psoriasis and 8 proven treatments for psoriasis management.

Continue reading “8 Proven Treatments for Psoriasis Management” →

Have you ever stopped to wonder about the UV index? We hear people say, “The UV index is high today” but what is this index, and what – if anything – should we do about it?

What Does the UV Index Mean?

UV stands for ultraviolet radiation, which is a form of energy that travels in waves, like radio waves and X-rays. The lower the frequency of the waves (or energy), the safer. Radioactive energy is the most dangerous. Waves from AM and FM radio stations are the least.

Ultraviolet radiation, which is more of a medium risk, comes mainly from the sun. The UV index is a way to measure the intensity of that radiation on a scale of 0 (no sunlight) to 11 (extreme radiation where you can burn in less than 10 minutes). Using the latitude and altitude of a specific place, time of day and year, ground, cloud, and ozone conditions, the US National Weather Service calculates the number and the EPA reports it.

While the index number may correlate with how hot it is, that’s not always true. At high altitudes (think of skiing in the winter), you could be cold enough to wear a jacket, while also being in danger of sunburn. Unlike the UV Heat Index, the UV Index is all about the power of radiation.

Are UVA and UVB both part of the index?

As dermatologists, we talk to our patients about two main types of UV radiation: UVA and UVB. A third type is UVC. UVC, while the most dangerous, is soaked up by the atmosphere before it gets to us. (However, some machinery (e.g. arc welding) is also a source of UVC, which is why people in those professions wear protective gear).

• UVB can penetrate the top layer of skin to cause visible damage through sunburns.
• 95% of the UV light that reaches us is UVA (it can get through clouds and windows, too). These rays go deeper into the skin, causing your skin to wrinkle, get tough or “leathery” and essentially look older than you are.

Should I Pay Attention to the Index?

If you don’t burn easily, should you worry about the UV index?

Absolutely. Even if the sun doesn’t burn your skin, it can cause cancer.

“Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer, and it’s also the most preventable type,” says Karynne Duncan, MD of Duncan Dermatology, a Golden State Dermatology Affiliate. “One in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer by the age of 70. One of the best ways to prevent this is to protect yourself from UV rays.”

You can read more about the sun and cancer in one of our other blogs, but here are three short – and important – facts:

• The three most common forms of skin cancer include basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma
• UVB is the main cause of basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas as well as melanoma
• UVA amplifies UVB-induced damage and increases your risk for skin cancer

UV radiation is such a serious health issue that the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), part of the World Health Organization, has determined that solar radiation is carcinogenic to humans, including the use of UV-emitting tanning devices.

What Actions Should I Take Based on the Index?

If the index tells us how intense the UV rays are, and if UV rays (of any kind) cause damage, what action should we take, based on the UV Index?

When the index is high, the safest action is to stay indoors, away from the sun. That’s why you’ll hear advice to avoid the sun from 10 am to 2 pm, when the UV index can be higher. If you have to be outdoors, wear protective clothing, sunglasses, and sunscreen.

Even when the index is low, perhaps at a 1 or a 2, you still need to be aware of UV rays and the harm they can cause. Always wear sunscreen outside (and reapply – it only lasts 90 minutes to 2 hours, at best). Protect your eyes with UV-blocking sunglasses and cover up.

“It can be tempting to take a short walk outside on a sunny day,” said Dr. Duncan. “We’ve all felt that way. But sun damage is cumulative. So even if you don’t see any short-term results, like a sunburn, the rays are still penetrating your skin and causing damage at the cellular level.”

If you know you’ve had several sunburns, or you can see visible signs of sun damage, set up a skin cancer screening at Golden State Dermatology. Our board-certified dermatologists perform thorough full-body skin checks to detect skin cancer as early as possible. The sooner you know, the sooner you can stop the spread.

Skin health = health! Make your skin a priority by requesting an appointment at Calkin Boudreaux in California today!

Check the UV Index today!

Sources:

Aim at Melanoma Foundation

Melanoma Research Alliance

The Skin Cancer Foundation

Environmental Protection Agency

American Cancer Society

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the U.S. One in every five Americans will get skin cancer in their lifetime.

While melanoma is the least common type of skin cancer, it’s the most dangerous. If caught and treated early, melanoma is almost always curable.

Keep reading to learn more about melanoma and the three warning signs of melanoma dermatologists wish you knew and didn’t ignore.

What Is Melanoma?

Melanoma, the most aggressive type of skin cancer, is a malignant tumor that begins in the melanocytes. Melanocytes are tiny cells that produce melanin, the pigment responsible for giving skin its color.

Often, melanoma is caused by prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light. UV light comes from the sun and tanning beds or lamps. Excessive exposure to UV radiation can damage the DNA of melanocyte cells.

Unrepaired DNA damage can trigger mutations and changes in these cells, causing them to quickly grow out of control and create a cancerous tumor. Melanomas usually appear as new marks or blemishes on the skin that may resemble moles. However, some can form from existing moles.

Melanomas typically occur on parts of the body that have received overexposure to UV radiation, including the face, arms, back, and legs. Rarely, they can occur in parts of the body that have never been exposed to UV rays, such as the soles of the feet, lips, palms of the hands, under the nails, or even on internal organs.

Melanoma is more common in people of European descent. However, regardless of skin color, anyone can develop it. Although melanoma accounts for only 1 percent of skin cancers, it’s the deadliest.

It can spread quickly to other parts of the body, which is harder to treat. Once it spreads, it has a 10 to 15 percent survival rate.

The earlier melanoma is detected, the higher the survival rate. When caught before it reaches the lymph nodes, the survival rate is more than 90 percent. That’s why it’s imperative to know the tell-tale signs of melanoma.

What are the Warning Signs of Melanoma?

Different ways exist to determine whether a mole or lesion could be melanoma. They include:

The Ugly Duckling

People with many moles are at a higher risk for developing melanoma. However, that doesn’t mean you should panic over every spot or mark on your body.

“Be on the lookout for moles that are different from the rest,” says Daniel Aires, MD, JD, FAAD of Golden State Dermatology in Walnut Creek. These could be lighter or darker than the others, oddly shaped, or have changed recently.

Moles or spots that stand out are called ugly ducklings and might be a sign of melanoma. If you’re concerned about a spot that looks different from the surrounding moles or marks, you should get it checked by a dermatologist immediately.

The ABCDEs

Be on the lookout for any of the ABCDEs of melanoma. See your dermatologist immediately at Golden State Dermatology if you notice any of the following symptoms.

For hard-to-see parts of the body, use a mirror or ask someone to help you check those areas. The ABCDEs are:

A-Asymmetrical

Melanoma is usually asymmetrical. This means the mole or spot is irregular or uneven in shape. One half of the mole may not match the other, or it could be of a different size or shape.

Non-cancerous moles tend to be more even, and the two halves are symmetrical or similar.

B-Border

The edges around melanomas (border) are often irregular or uneven. They may seem more jagged, scalloped, or blurry. Normal moles typically have smooth, regular borders.

C-Color

Melanomas usually have an uneven color with more than one shade. They may be different shades of brown, tan, black, or pink.

Some may have a blue tint, white areas, or appear red. A lack of color on a mole could also be a warning sign of melanoma. Cancerous spots or moles may lose their pigmentation partially or entirely.

Ordinary moles often have an even color. If they have two colors, the colors are symmetrical across both halves.

D-Diameter

Most melanomas are more than ¼ inches or 6 millimeters (mm) wide, but they may be smaller if detected early.

E-Evolving

Melanomas can change or evolve in shape, color, or size. A mole or spot with melanoma might also become crusty or itchy.

Additionally, you may notice a change in sensation around or in a mole, such as becoming painful, tender, hard, or lumpy. A mole that starts to bleed or ooze and doesn’t heal on its own could be another indication of melanoma.

While all these changes are not a sure sign of melanoma, you should still get it checked by your dermatologist immediately.

EFG Signs

Nodular melanoma, the most aggressive form, is found in 10 to 20 percent of cases. It often first appears as a raised lesion or bump on the skin and grows fast and vertically beneath it.

Nodular melanoma becomes quickly invasive, and within months, it metastasizes or spreads to other parts of the body. Unlike other melanomas, nodular melanomas are small in diameter and more even in color and shape.

Nodular melanomas can be brown, blue-black, or black; up to 50 percent are skin-colored or pink-red. They are usually mistaken for harmless skin conditions like acne, blood blisters, moles, or insect bites.

Due to its aggressive nature and ability to develop undetected, prompt detection of nodular melanoma is critical to saving lives. If nodular melanoma hasn’t spread at diagnosis, the patient survival rate is approximately 98 percent.

However, if it has metastasized to other parts of the body, survival rates decline to about 22 percent after five years. Nodular melanoma doesn’t follow the ABCDE rule and can go undetected in the early stages.

Fortunately, the EFG method can aid in identifying changes in lesions or moles suggestive of nodular melanoma. Nodular melanomas typically have the following features:

E-Elevated

If a bump or lump is raised or elevated around the surrounding skin, it could be an indication of nodular melanoma. The surface may be smooth, crusted, or rough.

F-Firmness

Nodular melanomas are like hard lumps and very firm to the touch.

Ordinary moles are usually soft to the touch. They may feel spongy when you press on them.

G-Growing

A nodular melanoma can grow rapidly, with changes noticed over days or weeks. A lump or bump that grows quickly should be seen immediately by a dermatologist.

Benign lesions on the skin typically remain stable or change gradually over the years.

Protect Your Skin from Melanoma

It’s essential to have a skin exam annually or promptly if there’s a change in your skin. The experienced team at Golden State Dermatology can detect melanoma early before it becomes life-threatening. “Sun protection isn’t just about avoiding sunburn—it’s your first line of defense against melanoma. Regular skin checks and daily SPF use are small habits that can make a life-saving difference,” said Dr. Aires.

Have you noticed a suspicious-looking mole, bump, or spot? Don’t panic. Book an appointment online at one of Calkin & Boudreaux’s convenient locations. Timely detection is a must if you suspect melanoma.

Wrinkles are an inevitable part of aging. Forehead wrinkles are especially noticeable and bothersome to people. Luckily, there are several ways to both improve and prevent them. 

When and why do wrinkles form?

As we age, there is loss of hyaluronic acid, collagen, and elastin in the skin, which can start as early as our 30s! These components of the skin are important for the skin’s elasticity, strength, firmness, hydration, and glow. Therefore, loss leads to skin laxity, wrinkle formation and a duller appearance to the skin. In addition, repetitive movement of certain facial muscles with expression, like the forehead muscle, contribute to the formation of wrinkles at rest.

What additional factors contribute to wrinkle formation?

Both intrinsic and extrinsic factors can contribute to the formation of wrinkles. 

Intrinsic factors include genetics, ethnicity, and gender. Some ethnicities age more slowly than others. Women are also more likely to show the signs of aging (i.e. wrinkles) earlier than men due to hormonal changes associated with menopause. 

Extrinsic factors that can accelerate the signs of aging include stress, inadequate sleep, poor nutrition, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption and environmental exposure to UV rays from the sun and pollution. 

What can you do about wrinkles? Prevention and Treatment

“Forehead (and glabellar) wrinkles are one of the first aging concerns we hear from our patients,” said Kerry Heitmiller, MD of Golden State Dermatology in Mountain View and San Mateo. “Luckily, we have multiple treatment options to address every patient’s concerns and goals in his or her rejuvenation journey.”

Lifestyle modifications:

• Nutrition – A well-balanced diet with adequate protein, fats and carbohydrates is key. Include plenty of antioxidants as well (i.e. vegetables, fruits) to help minimize the effects of free radicals. Limiting processed foods and unhealthy sugars is important as these can contribute to decreased collagen production and collagen breakdown. 
• Sleep – This may be the ultimate overlooked health benefit. Your body needs to repair itself daily, and sleep is how that happens.
• Stress – Some amount of stress can be healthy. However, cortisol (a chemical in the body released in times of stress) can lead to collagen damage. There are a variety of activities that can relieve stress such as medication, taking a walk outside, and deep breathing and it is important that you find one that works best for you. 
• Smoking – Try to avoid smoking as much as possible. Smoking offers no health benefit and contributes to the production of free radicals within the body. It is often a common risk factor for many chronic diseases and cancers. 
• Alcohol – Resveratrol (found in wine) is considered an antioxidant when consumed in moderation. However, it is important to limit excessive intake of alcohol as increased intake can cause dehydration and can negatively impact overall health including skin health. 

Topical Treatment 

Sunscreen is the most important thing you can apply to prevent wrinkles as it protects against damage from UV exposure from the sun. It is important to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against UVA and UVB. Tinted sunscreens or sunscreens containing iron oxide can provide additional protection against visible light.  Applying products containing antioxidants, such as vitamin C, are also important in protecting against the effects of free radicals that would ultimately damage collagen and elastin. Moisturizers and products containing hyaluronic acid, peptides and growth factors are helpful in hydrating the skin and further promoting collagen and elastin formation, leading to the prevention and/or improvement of wrinkle formation when used consistently over time. 

Laser Treatment 

There are many different lasers that can help to improve lines and wrinkles. Oftentimes, these lasers can help improve overlying texture and tone as well! These devices range from non-ablative lasers, which do not remove the top layer of skin, such as the Fraxel laser and Clear + Brilliant, and ablative lasers, which remove the top layer of skin, such as the CO2 laser. Ablative lasers are typically associated with a longer downtime following treatment, although offer more noticeable improvement and are better with treating deeper wrinkles compared to non-ablative lasers. 

Microneedling

Microneedling involves small needles that penetrate the skin, typically delivered in combination with radiofrequency. The mechanical and heat injury stimulates collagen and elastin production, resulting in improvement in skin laxity and softening of fine lines and wrinkles. 

Chemical Peels 

Peels can help to resurface the skin to various degrees based on the strength of the peel (i.e. superficial, medium or deep). Deep chemical peels often lead to greater improvement in fine lines and wrinkles, although, they are associated with longer downtimes. Peels, like lasers, have the added benefit in improving overall skin tone, texture and any associated pigmentation. 

Fillers

Fillers can help to soften wrinkles and restore volume in almost any area of the face. Available fillers include hyaluronic acid fillers and biostimulatory fillers like Radiesse and Sculptra. Hyaluronic acid fillers directly volumize, leading to softening of fine lines and wrinkles and providing natural contour to the face. Biostimulatory fillers stimulate collagen and elastin production where they are injected leading to skin tightening and improvement of wrinkles over time. 

Botulinum toxin

There are many different types of toxins available including Botox, Dysport, Xeomin, Jeuveau, and Daxxify. All work to weak specific facial muscles, which then leads to softening of dynamic wrinkles (or wrinkles that form with movement). Consistent treatment with neuromodulators can prevent wrinkles from becoming deeper and can even soften them over time. If treatment is started early, wrinkles can be proactively prevented from developing!  

If you are interested in prevention or treatment for wrinkles that bother you, make an appointment today at Calkin & Boudreaux today. Aging gracefully is different for each of us, and we’re here to talk about your concerns.

Summer is the perfect time to dust off your flip-flops and enjoy some fun in the sun. However, if your nails are discolored, crumbly, or distorted, you may feel reluctant to show off your feet in sandals.

Nail fungus is a common condition that causes unsightly nail problems. Fortunately, it’s very treatable.

Keep reading to learn more about finger and toenail treatments that will transform sandal season this summer.

What is a Nail Fungal Infection?

A fungal nail infection, also called onychomycosis, is a common condition that separates nails from the nail beds, making them thick, discolored, and brittle.

A nail fungal infection usually starts as a yellow-brown or white spot under the tip of the toenail or fingernail. As the infection grows and spreads, the nail may become brittle, change shape, and even crumble along the edges.

Fungi are microorganisms that can only be seen with a microscope. Different types may cause nail infections. Some fungi live on or in the body and don’t cause harm.

However, if they grow out of control, they can cause an infection. Fungi not present in the body may also cause other infections.

Without treatment, a nail fungus infection can result in extensive damage. The nails may become considerably thicker and completely discolored. They might also lift from the nail bed, losing their firm attachment.

Nail fungus is contagious. An infected person can spread the fungus through direct contact. The fungus may also spread by touching infected surfaces like shoes, carpets, and showers.

What Causes a Nail Fungal Infection?

Onychomycosis develops when various types of fungi come into contact with your toenails or fingernails. These fungi feed on keratin, a protein in the nails and skin.

The most common cause of onychomycosis is a group of stubborn fungi known as dermatophytes. Fungi can also occur as molds, yeasts, or a combination. These can also cause a nail fungal infection.

Another cause of nail fungus is athlete’s foot. Athlete’s foot can spread to the nails, causing nail fungus. Also known as tinea pedis, athlete’s foot is a fungal infection of the feet that also affects the areas between the toes.

It thrives in warm, moist environments created when feet are covered in shoes and socks. Left untreated, athlete’s foot can spread to the toenails, groin, and hands due to the migration of the fungus.

The fungus transfers to these areas when you scratch the infected foot with your hand or use the same towel to dry off your feet. Athlete’s foot is contracted through contaminated towels, clothing, public pool areas, and gym locker rooms.

What are the Risk Factors of a Nail Fungal Infection?

Certain factors increase the risk of developing nail fungus, including:

• Older age
• Being male
• Sweaty feet
• Smoking cigarettes
• Minor nail or skin injury
• A history of athlete’s foot
• Wearing tight, sweaty shoes
• Walking barefoot in public areas
• Using public locker rooms, pools, or showers
• Wearing socks and shoes for prolonged periods
• Sharing socks, shoes, or nail clippers with an infected person
• Getting manicures and pedicures at salons from poorly sanitized equipment and tools
• Certain conditions, such as diabetes, psoriasis, poor circulation, or a weakened immune system

What are the Symptoms of a Nail Fungal Infection?

Nail fungus is typically mild at the start but then worsens gradually. Initially, there may be a yellow or white spot under the nail.

As the infection spreads, it can turn the whole nail yellow, white, black, or green. Other symptoms include nails that are:

• Thick
• Smelly
• Ingrown
• Dry or dull
• Misshapen
• Cracked or split
• Brittle or crumbly
• Separated from the nailbed
• Distorted or curled up or down
• Painful when the infection becomes severe

As the fungus grows beneath the nails, it damages them. The longer you ignore a fungal nail infection, the worse it gets.

How Do You Treat a Nail Fungal Infection?

Fungal nail infections can be stubborn. However, when you stick to the treatment your dermatologist at Golden State Dermatology recommends, you’ll be ready for sandal season this summer.

Various prescription medications can fight fungal infections. The treatment options may include:

Oral Antifungal Drugs

Your dermatologist may prescribe antifungal pills. These medications allow new, fungus-free nails to grow and gradually replace the infected nails.

Antifungal pills may include Lamisil, which is taken for at least three months, or Diflucan, which is taken once a week for at least a year.

Medicated Nail Cream

When the infection is mild, your dermatologist may prescribe an antifungal cream. The topical medication is applied directly to the soaked nail.

Before treatment, your dermatologist may debride or thin the surface of the nails. Thinning the nails allows the medication to easily penetrate the nail surface and reach the underlying fungus.

Medicated nail creams keep new fungus out while healthy nails grow, slowly eradicating the fungal infection.

Antifungal Nail Polish

Your dermatologist can also prescribe medicated nail polish. The nail polish contains antifungal medication and is painted on infected nails and the surrounding skin once daily.

After a week, the polish is removed with alcohol, and the process begins again. The fungal infection can be cleared up gradually over up to a year.

Combination Therapy

For tough-to-treat fungal infections, your dermatologist may recommend combination therapy. The therapy incorporates both oral and topical antifungal treatments. It’s more effective in eliminating severe infections than using only one treatment.

Get Your Clear, Healthy Nails Back

You don’t have to hide your nails this summer. You can say goodbye to discolored, crumbly nails with top-of-the-line treatment from Golden State Dermatology.

“Sandal season can be worrisome for patients battling nail fungus, and some even avoid open-toed shoes altogether. But, we do have solutions to get your nails back to their healthiest,” said Jordan Jepson, PA-C of Golden State Dermatology, Turlock. “With an understanding of the benefits and side effects, we can choose the best treatment together.”

Do you want to get your hands and feet ready for sandal season? Book an appointment online at one of Golden State Dermatology’s convenient locations to stop nail fungus in its tracks.

For many women, teens, and men, acne can be a source of constant frustration and diminish self-esteem. Its effects range from intermittent breakouts to inflamed bumps and frustrating blemishes. While acne is a chronic condition, you don’t have to let it run your life.

The right treatments can get it under control and help you achieve clearer, healthier skin. Keep reading to learn how to banish blemishes with the ultimate guide to acne treatments to reveal your most beautiful skin!

Continue reading “Banish Blemishes with the Ultimate Guide to Acne Treatments” →

Are you battling acne? Acne can leave you with unsightly breakouts, unattractive skin bumps, and stubborn scarring that can make you self-conscious. Fortunately, you can address these and other skin concerns with regular acne facials. Keep reading to learn why an acne facial with an esthetician will help you unlock radiant skin and keep your skin clear and glowing.

What Is an Acne Facial?

An acne facial is a specialized skincare treatment that targets acne-prone skin. Unlike regular facials, these specialized facials go beyond the skin’s surface to address the underlying causes of acne, thus improving your skin’s condition and appearance. “I, along with my colleagues here, often recommend regular acne facials with our esthetician, as part of a multi-faceted acne treatment program. When added to a patient’s program provided by their dermatologist, plus an at-home skincare regimen, acne facials can clear up breakouts faster and help prevent future ones,” said Andrew Menkes, MD of The Menkes Clinic, A Golden State Dermatology Affiliate. A licensed esthetician, like those we have at Golden State Dermatology clinics, should perform the acne facials for the best results.

How Can an Acne Facial with an Esthetician Help You Achieve Radiant Skin?

An acne facial with an esthetician at Golden State Dermatology can rejuvenate your skin in the following ways:

Deep Cleansing

Deep cleansing is designed to deep clean the pores. Your esthetician will use special ingredients to eliminate dirt, excess oil, and other impurities in the skin that can contribute to breakouts. After the first cleansing, they will clean the skin again to remove all traces of oil, dirt, and debris. By thoroughly cleansing your skin, acne facials give you a clearer complexion.

Exfoliation

Exfoliation is an essential step in any acne facial. It addresses one of the root causes of acne: clogged pores. Clogged, congested pores are breeding grounds for P. acnes, the acne-causing bacteria. Exfoliation aids in decongesting pores. In acne facials, chemical exfoliation is often preferred over physical exfoliation. It’s gentler on breakouts and minimizes the risk of irritation and micro-tears that can occur with physical exfoliation. Chemical exfoliation utilizes acne-fighting acids to stimulate exfoliation. Chemical exfoliants penetrate deeper layers and break up dead skin cells to reveal brighter, smoother skin. Estheticians gently exfoliate the skin with professional-grade exfoliating acids. These remove dead skin cells and debris, preventing them from building up and clogging pores, improving skin texture. Exfoliation also minimizes the appearance of large pores, further creating a more refined skin texture.

Acne Extractions

An acne extraction is the process of clearing compacted or clogged pores. Extractions can improve the overall texture and appearance of the skin. While you may be tempted to squeeze out a stubborn pimple, improper extraction can trigger more skin irritation and cause scarring. A bacterial infection can also occur if you push too aggressively or in the wrong direction, forcing contents deeper into the skin. An expert esthetician can quickly determine which bumps should be removed, which ones shouldn’t, and which require more time. They’ll safely remove clogged pores manually or with sterilized tools, preventing more damage or the potential for infection spreading. The most effective extraction is on whiteheads and blackheads. Extracting active acne lesions and bumps isn’t recommended. After an extraction, your skin will have a more even texture, feel smoother, and look revitalized and healthier.

Hydration

Acne facials aim to eliminate bacteria and remove buildup in pores, dead skin cells, and excess sebum without triggering a sebum response. Your esthetician will include hydration in your facial, like hydrating serums or a deep hydrating mask, to replenish and increase moisture levels in the skin. Adequate hydration soothes irritation and prevents excess oil production while keeping skin toned and rejuvenated. It also boosts the skin’s elasticity, leaving it supple and plump.

LED Light Therapy

Skin can shine the brightest with LED light therapy. Light-emitting diode (LED) light therapy is a safe, non-invasive, and effective treatment that addresses acne at a cellular level. LED lights set off a biochemical reaction in the skin, encouraging cells to produce more oxygen and reinforcing the skin’s cellular structure. These reactions lead to decreased inflammation, fewer acne breakouts, and plumper, brighter skin. LED therapy uses light at different wavelengths to address various skin concerns. Each wavelength targets specific layers of the skin to achieve different results. Your esthetician will expose your skin to various types of LED wavelengths. Depending on your individual skin concerns, they may use one wavelength or a combination. Using a combination of wavelengths is usually more effective than using only one. LED wavelengths are seen as different colors of the visible light spectrum. Each color provides its own skin benefits.

Blue Light

Blue light reaches the uppermost layer of the skin or dermis. It helps regulate sebum production and eliminates acne-causing bacteria, allowing you to heal deep into the individual layers of the skin. This can lead to fewer breakouts in the future. Blue light also soothes flare-ups, reducing the irritation and redness of existing pimples.

Yellow Light (Amber)

Yellow light reaches the deepest layer of the skin and has a shallow penetration level. It rejuvenates skin cells, decreasing inflammation and redness. It also boosts the production of red blood cells in the skin, which reduces dark spots and hyperpigmentation. In addition, yellow light encourages blood circulation, accelerating wound healing and improving the skin’s ability to retain moisture and stay hydrated.

Red Light

Red light reaches deep within the skin and activates natural cell repair. It promotes healing and improves skin tone, texture, and complexion. Red light also stimulates collagen production, which keeps the skin looking vibrant and youthful.

Green Light

Green light penetrates the skin to a shallow depth. It soothes irritation and offers relief from blemishes and breakouts. Like yellow LED light, green light minimizes hyperpigmentation. It keeps melanin from reaching the skin’s surface while limiting its overproduction. Green light also contains anti-inflammatory properties that are important in calming redness. With green light therapy, you can attain a more radiant tone.

Reveal More Vibrant Skin with an Acne Facial

Golden State Dermatology offers meticulously tailored acne facials that will combat acne, help you maintain healthier skin, and restore your brilliant natural glow. “Performing acne facials for our patients is one of my favorite treatments to do. Helping someone achieve clearer skin and boost their confidence is so rewarding,” said Shawna Nelson, Licensed Esthetician at The Menkes Clinic, A Golden State Dermatology Affiliate. “It’s why I do what I do!” Are you interested in acne facials? Achieve more beautiful skin by booking your appointment online at one of Golden State Dermatology’s convenient locations!

As the summer sun beckons us to enjoy its warm embrace, many of us eagerly anticipate poolside parties, beach outings, and outdoor adventures. However, the increase in heat and humidity can sometimes lead to unwanted skin issues, including a common condition known as folliculitis. If you’ve ever experienced those tiny red bumps on your skin, especially after shaving or sweating, you might be dealing with folliculitis.

Folliculitis is a common skin condition related to the hair follicle (hence the name). When the follicle (a small hole or cavity that surrounds the roots of each hair) becomes infected with bacteria, the skin can get red and/or be itchy, and small bumps can appear. Those bumps could look like a rash, or they can become filled with fluid, or be inflamed and painful.

It’s such a common condition because so many different situations contribute to it: daily activities like shaving, hot tubs, sweating, or not drying off enough from the pool or beach.

“Folliculitis tends to worsen in the summer months because heat and humidity create the perfect environment for bacteria to thrive. Additionally, increased sweating and friction from tight clothing or swimsuits can exacerbate the condition,” said Marwa Hakimi, MD of Golden State Dermatology in Brentwood. “Many people tend to ignore it, but like any skin abnormality, don’t assume it will automatically resolve on its own. Avoid self-diagnosing or self-medicating, as any skin rash or eruption could be a sign of something else.”

Different Types of Folliculitis

• Hot tub rash (pseudomonas folliculitis). Its medical name comes from the type of bacteria that causes it, but it’s more commonly known by the activity that leads to it — hot tubs. In fairness you can also pick this up on water slides and in heated pools where the chlorine and pH levels aren’t right. Within a few days after exposure, you’ll see round, itchy bumps that look like a rash.
• Razor bumps (pseudofolliculitis barbae). Despite the name, this is caused by hairs that grow back in on themselves (ingrown hairs), not infected follicles. While it typically affects men with curly hair who shave their faces on a routine basis, in summer months or in hot climates it can affect people who get bikini waxes.
• Malassezia folliculitis. This doesn’t have a more common name, but the cause is incredibly common in hotter climates or warm months: sweating. While sweating doesn’t cause this type of infection (Malassezia are a family of yeast that already exist on the skin), sweating makes it worse.
• Pityrosporum folliculitis. Also related to a yeast of the same name, this type of folliculitis can spread once it gets into the hair follicles. It, too, is typically benign on the skin, and only causes a problem when there’s too much of it.

Don’t Blame It on Summer

While summer does tend to increase the risk of folliculitis, it’s also linked to:

• Prolonged use of oral antibiotics
• Being overweight or obese
• Diabetes
• Stress
• Underlying skin condition (eczema, acne, etc.)
• Pressure (prolonged sitting)

The summer or hot weather conditions that increase the chances you’ll develop some type of folliculitis are:

• Wearing tight, moisture-trapping clothes (like swimsuits)
• Use of oily or greasy products, such as certain sunscreens (but don’t skip the sunscreen; just find a different one)
• Sweating and not fully cleaning your skin or hair
• Being in water that doesn’t have the right pH level
• Frequent shaving

Preventing and Treating Folliculitis

Preventing folliculitis involves good hygiene and skincare practices. Here are some tips to keep those pesky bumps at bay:

• Keep Your Skin Clean and Dry: Wash your skin regularly with a gentle cleanser and avoid leaving sweat-soaked clothing on for too long. Wash athletic clothing after every use.
• Exfoliate Regularly: This helps remove dead skin cells that can clog hair follicles.
• Wear Loose Clothing, especially during exercise: Tight clothes can trap sweat and cause friction, irritating the hair follicles.
• Avoid Sharing Personal Items: Towels, razors, and clothing can spread bacteria and fungi.
• Shaving smart: Shave in the direction of hair growth, avoid shaving irritated skin, and use an electric razor or a new disposable razor every time you shave.

For those already dealing with folliculitis, treatment options vary depending on the severity of the condition.

Treating Folliculitis

While it can be painful, irritating, or just look unpleasant, the good news is that folliculitis usually goes away without treatment. Mild cases of folliculitis may resolve on their own with proper hygiene and over-the-counter treatments. But if you also have a fever, a rash that spreads, or raised bumps that have an odor or are filled with a liquid, consult with a dermatologist. Dr. Hakimi states, “Persistent or severe folliculitis can lead to more serious infections or scarring if left untreated. A dermatologist can provide the necessary interventions to manage the condition effectively and prevent complications.”

If the diagnosis is acute folliculitis, your dermatologist may suggest over-the-counter medications or treatments. For example, with Malassezia folliculitis, one treatment is using anti-dandruff shampoo. In other cases, depending on the duration or severity, the doctor may prescribe oral or topical antibiotics or antifungal medications to treat the cause of your infection, or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs, like aspirin) or antihistamines to relieve pain or itching.

“As with any other kind of skin condition, the key is to know what’s normal for you,” said Dr. Hakimi. “When you see something developing on your skin that isn’t usually there — like raised, red bumps — that’s something to pay attention to.”

Embrace a Folliculitis-Free Summer

Summer should be a time of fun and relaxation, not of worrying about skin problems. By understanding folliculitis and taking proactive steps to prevent and treat it, you can enjoy the season with confidence. Remember, the team at Calkin & Boudreaux is here to help you achieve and maintain healthy, beautiful skin all year round.

Don’t let folliculitis put a damper on your summer plans. With the right care and guidance, you can keep your skin smooth and free of irritation.

If you’re experiencing any skin concerns or need expert advice, schedule an appointment with Calkin & Boudreaux in Sacramento today!

Did you know that skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the U.S.? It’s estimated that nearly 9,500 people in the United States are diagnosed with skin cancer daily.

May is National Skin Cancer Awareness Month, making it the perfect time to know more about skin cancer. Keep reading to learn more about skin cancer, signs to watch out for, the importance of skin cancer screenings, and ways to minimize your skin cancer risk.

Continue reading “The Importance of Skin Cancer Awareness Month: What You Need to Know” →

Skin cancer sounds straightforward: it’s an abnormal growth of cells.

According to the Skin Cancer Foundation:

• 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer by the age of 70.
• More than 2 people die of skin cancer in the U.S. every hour.

Even though the definition is simple, knowing what “abnormal growth” looks like is anything but straightforward.

Here’s an overview of the three most common types of skin cancer.

Types of Skin Cancer

Nonmelanoma skin cancer

Two main types of skin cancer fall into this category: basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, “about 90 percent of nonmelanoma skin cancers are associated with exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun.”

Basal Cell Carcinoma

The most common cancer in the world with 3.6M cases diagnosed in the US each year is basal cell carcinoma or BCC. Generally, they are not as dangerous as the other types of skin cancers. However, if left untreated, it can cause significant disfigurement and eventually spread to lymph nodes.

BCC can look like:

• A round growth, the same color as your skin – often with a “pearly” appearance.
• A pinkish patch of skin
• A scar
• A raised, scaly patch

Basal cell carcinoma can show up in such a wide variety of ways, that while photos are helpful, it’s best to have a board certified dermatologist do an exam.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma

This is the second most common skin cancer, with nearly 2 million cases a year in the US. It is more aggressive than basal cell carcinoma and can spread to lymph nodes more easily. Thus, early diagnosis and treatment is important.  

Just like BCC, SCC has a wide variety of appearances:

• A small red bump
• A scaly patch
• A warty growth
• A little horn growing out of the skin
• A sore that doesn’t heal

Treatment for Basal Cell Carcinoma and Squamous Cell Carcinoma

• Topical medication (for superficial skin cancers)
• Electrodessication and curettage (for superficial skin cancers on the trunk and extremities)
• Surgery (excisional)
• Mohs surgery
• Radiation therapy for non-surgical candidates

Melanoma

Malignant melanoma is the third most common skin cancer, with more than 100,000 cases a year in the US. But it has increased by more than 30% in the past decade, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. The good news is that, if caught and treated early, the 5-year relative survival can be more than 90%.

Similar to other skin cancers, Melanoma can have a wide variety of appearances. However, it most commonly presents as an irregular, dark spot.  Here’s a helpful list from the American Academy of Dermatology that discusses the various features of melanoma.

Melanoma can look like:

• A mole that changes in appearance
• Any kind of spot (it could look like a mole, freckle, or age spot) that looks different from the others on your skin
• A spot with a irregular borders
• A spot with more than one color
• A raised growth that bleeds
• A dark vertical line underneath the nail or a band of darker skin around a fingernail or toenail

Melanoma Treatment

• Surgery
• Sentinel lymph node biopsy (in certain cases, to check for metastasis)
• Chemotherapy (if the melanoma has spread)

Actinic Keratosis

Actinic keratosis (AK) is a pre-skin cancer. It affects more than 58 million Americans, but only turns into cancer in two to five percent of cases. AKs generally look like small, pink scaly spots.

What can it look like:

• A pink scaly or gritty spot
• Irritated red skin
• Badly chapped lips

Treatment

• Cryotherapy (freezing)
• Photodynamic therapy (PDT)
• Topical medication

Early Detection Saves Lives

Given that skin cancer can show up anywhere on your skin – under fingernails, on the tops of your ears, on your back – it’s vital to perform self-checks monthly. (Here’s a guide on how to do it in 10 minutes).

“All skin cancers are treatable if caught early,” said Hovik Ashchyan, MD, Mohs Surgeon at Golden State Dermatology. “If you’ve had a history of significant sun exposure and sun burns, or a family history of skin cancers, it’s important to see a dermatologist regularly for skin checks.”

As always, if you have any questions or doubts about any marks on your skin, reach out to your closest GSD clinic for a consultation. You can find a clinic near you here. And if you have multiple freckles and/or moles, set up regular appointments so we can help you track any changes.

What is Mohs Surgery?

What exactly is Mohs, and how is it different than other types of cancer surgery?

Mohs Surgery is a technique developed in the 1930s by Frederic Mohs. The key aspect of Mohs surgery is that the full tissue margins are assessed under the microscope in real-time. Because of that precision, the skin cancer cure rate is close to 99%. In addition, the procedures leaves the smallest possible scar for the patient.

Did You Know?

The names of skin cancers are related to where they start in the skin. The top layer of skin is called the epidermis. Within that layer are three main types of cells.

• Squamous: These are flat cells in the outer part of the epidermis. You shed and form these cells constantly – without even noticing!
• Basal cells: These are in the lower part of the epidermis. They move up to replace the squamous cells, changing shape as they go, to become flatter.
• Melanocytes: These make a brown pigment called melanin, which creates the skin’s tan or brown color. Melanin provides protection from sun damage for the lower layers of skin.

“Skin cancers can present in a wide variety of ways, so it often difficult for patients to know if their skin lesions are concerning or not. Dermatologists are trained experts in detecting the features of skin cancers and differentiating them from benign skin lesions. Thus, it’s important to see a board-certified dermatologist if you are concerned about any spots on your skin. When in doubt, come see us for a skin check!” said Hovik Ashchyan, MD, Mohs Surgeon at Golden State Dermatology.”