Coast Dermatology Medical Associates

Cosmetic Dermatology

Brown Age Spots (Sunspots)

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About Brown Age Spots (Sunspots)

What is it?

Also known as liver spots or sunspots, brown age spots are not always uniform; they can be tan or black, can differ in size and shape, and usually appear on areas commonly exposed to the sun, such as the face, hands, arms, and shoulders. Although normally a cosmetic issue, brown age spots can develop into a medical issue if the spots rapidly enlarge, bleed, or change into unusual colors. If you notice these, please see your neighborhood board-certified dermatologist immediately.

What causes it?

Brown age spots are primarily caused by years of exposure to the UV rays of the sun (or to those of indoor tanning), which is why you may associate them with aging; however, brown spots can develop in younger people, as well. To be more specific, the spots result when the UV rays cause the buildup or clumping together of melanin in a localized area. Although brown spots can develop on any skin color, if you have light skin, you’re more susceptible. This is also the case if you have a history of sunburns or have spent a lot of time in the sun during your life.

Common treatments?

We understand that aging and years of fun in the sun can bring about changes in your skin, particularly brown age spots (or sunspots), which can have an effect on your self-esteem. As your community skin experts, we’re here to offer encouragement, answer questions, and provide solutions regarding this issue. Our skin experts offer a variety of treatments for liver spots, but they are based on your overall health and aesthetic goals. Options include prescription oral medications, prescription-strength creams, laser treatment, IPL therapy, dermabrasion, cryotherapy, and chemical peels.

Providers

Our approach & expertise

Our skilled dermatologists have the knowledge and experience to provide treatment options tailored to suit your needs and meet your goals. We’ll be with you throughout the process, providing compassionate advice and support. Your healthy skin is our passion. Contact us today if you notice brown age spots so that we can help you look your best.

Vascular Birthmarks

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About Vascular Birthmarks

What are they?

Birthmarks are common. Research shows that about 10% of babies are born with a type of birthmark known as hemangioma (he-man-gio-ma). Vascular malformations are benign (non-cancerous) lesions, are present at birth and grow with the child. They do not have a rapid growth cycle and then suddenly stop growing, they continue to slowly grow throughout life. Birthmarks vary in size and can range in color from brown to blue to shades of red or pink. Although in some children a birthmark is a minor flaw that they can live with, some children with a birthmark will require treatment.

What causes them?

Currently, there are no known causes or risk factors for developing vascular birthmarks. Some initial research shows a potential genetic link, but this is inconclusive at this time.

Common treatments

Not every person or birthmark is the same. When you come to see one of our highly trained doctors you will get a personalized treatment catered to your specific needs. We will determine which method is the best to remove birthmarks and how we can minimize scarring. We may use a laser, IPL, or standard removal to remove your birthmark. When you come in for a consultation, we will assess you and provide our treatment recommendation.

Tattoo Removal

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About Tattoo Removal

What is it?

Tattoo removal is the erasure of unwanted skin art, almost exclusively through the use of a laser. It is a safe, effective, and minimally-invasive method of eradicating skin ink. In general, lasers remove unwanted ink by emitting pulses of energy into the skin. The pulses penetrate the top layers of the skin for absorption by the ink. The pigment breaks down into tiny particles that your body absorbs and then safely removes, all without harming adjacent, un-inked skin. Because some colors are more difficult to remove than others, we use a variety of the latest, most state-of-the-art lasers for tattoo removal. These include lasers with gemstones such as ruby or with fractional CO2 technology.

What to expect

One obvious benefit of tattoo removal is the reappearance of clear, unmarked skin. For some individuals, tattoo removal helps erase unwanted reminders of the past, similar to closing a chapter on part of your life. Tattoo removal is virtually painless, and results in little risk of scarring and downtime. The number of treatments required depends on your tattoo size, the colors used in the tattoo, and the tattoo’s complexity. For example, darker ink colors like black and dark red are easier to remove, while lighter colors like green or light blue may require additional laser sessions. The ink type and depth, as well as your skin tone, are also factors to consider. On average, most individuals need 5-10 treatments to thoroughly erase their tattoo, with these treatments spaced about 4-6 weeks apart.

After the procedure

Side effects of laser tattoo removal are generally mild and temporary and could include swelling, redness, and a sunburn-like sensation. A “white frosting” may appear over the treated area, as well. Most of these should subside within a few hours after your procedure, although it could take up to 3-5 days for some individuals.

Providers

Our approach & expertise

We know skin art can be an unwanted reminder of the past or an obstacle to professional progress. For this reason, our trained experts offer various tattoo removal options to erase your art and restore clear, unmarked skin. What makes us unique our focus on you as a person. Our practitioners tailor tattoo removal to fit your unique needs and will provide compassionate support throughout the process.

Spider Veins

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About Spider Veins

What are they?

Varicose and spider veins are damaged veins, which develop when tiny, one-way valves inside the veins weaken. In healthy veins, these valves push blood in one direction, back to our heart. When these valves weaken, some blood flows backward and accumulates in the vein. Extra blood in the vein puts pressure on the walls of the vein, with continual pressure, the vein walls can weaken and possibly bulge. Over time, a varicose or spider vein can start to be visible on the skin.
Some people are genetically disposed to develop these veins. If someone in your family has visible veins, you have a higher risk of also developing these. Many people get them because they sit or stand for long periods most days of the week. These veins also become more common with age and can occur during pregnancy. Spider veins can also be caused by sunlight, hormonal changes, or an injury.

What causes them?

Varicose and spider veins are enlarged veins that often twist and can bulge above the surface of the skin. They may be blue, red, or flesh-colored. Spider veins often look like webs. There are several ways that you may develop veins that are visible on the top layer of your skin. Genetics can play a part, if your family has a tendency to develop visible spider veins, then you might also get these. Another is due to work environments, if you tend to stand or sit too much you can possibly develop these over time. There are many reasons why our bodies react or develop things, regardless, the good news is that they are treatable.

Common treatments

The good news is there are a lot of ways that spider veins can be treated. The first step is seeing your dermatologist to decide if leg vein treatment is safe for you. During your exam, your doctor will look closely at your leg veins and ask about your medical history. Non-invasive tests that look at the veins in your legs may also be necessary, which will also help with determining how your circulation is.
After reviewing all of the information, your dermatologist can tell you if vein treatment is right for you and which treatment would be most effective. Sometimes, more than one type of treatment will be recommended to give you the best results and reduce side effects.
Trust your demonologist to come up with the best treatment plan for the health of your skin, and also your body. Recommendations for treatment could be simple, like wearing compression bandages or a support hose. Treatments that might be recommended are Sclerotherapy which is a safe treatment for spider veins and causes minimal discomfort. A concentrated salt (saline) or specially developed chemical solution is injected with a very small needle into the spider vein. This pickles the inside of the vein so it closes up and later collapses and becomes scar tissue that eventually is absorbed by the body. This treatment usually requires multiple sessions. Lasers have been used successfully as well, and are a good solution for veins on your face. These are just a few of the options your doctor might talk to you about. Our goal is to help you be the best version of yourself so call an office today and make an appointment.

Skin Tags

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About Skin Tags

What are they?

Skin tags are usually harmless and painless. Skin tags, also called acrochordons, soft fibromas, or fibroepithelial polyps, are small noncancerous, or benign, skin growths. They are often flesh-colored bumps of tissue connected to the skin’s surface by a narrow stalk. The color, texture, size, and width of the base can vary. As we age, and if we are prone to skin tags, they become more common as we advance in years. It is not known what causes skin tags, but the good news is they are not cancerous and do not pose other health concerns. The main symptom is a growth on the skin, often on the neck, upper chest, underarms, and eyelids. They may become irritated from rubbing against clothing. Most skin tags don’t require treatment. If a skin tag is irritated or its appearance is bothersome, a doctor can remove it.

What causes them?

Most skin tags don’t cause symptoms unless they are repeatedly irritated by rubbing against jewelry, clothing, or other items. The tags are harmless, but they won’t go away without treatment. A reason for treatment may include irritation or if you don’t like the way the skin tag looks. Friction can also play a role in the development of skin tags. Frequently, they develop on the neck, underarms, and eyelids, as well as within body folds, such as under the breasts or in the groin area. In some cases, skin tags seem to be associated with obesity, and genetic factors also appear to play a role. Unfortunately, there’s no way to minimize the risk of developing skin tags.

Common treatments

If you have skin tags that are irritated, or you just don’t like where they have developed, we are here to help. Skin tags can be removed in several ways, they can be cut off with scissors or excision, but minor bleeding could occur. Freezing or burning, the skin tag may require a short time to fall off, and these procedures have a risk of skin discoloration, darkening, or lightening, following the procedure. Sometimes, repeat treatments are necessary if the tag doesn’t fall off or it grows back, or if new tags grow in other areas. If you are concerned about your skin tags ask your dermatologist about how to treat your skin. Our goal is that you look your best, so make an appointment today if you have skin tags and want to remove them.

Keloid (Scars)

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About Keloids (Scars)

What are they?

A keloid scar is a thick raised scar. It can occur after a skin injury, bug bite, surgery, or from other forms of trauma to your skin. It is known to form on earlobes, shoulders, cheeks or the chest. If prone to developing keloid scars, know that you can get them in more than one place. The good news is that these are treatable, and your provider will be able to help you come up with a treatment plan.

What causes them?

Keloids are a type of scarring that happens when your skin experiences some sort of trauma and begins to heal.
Collagen, which is a protein found throughout the body and useful to wound healing, can produce too much and keloids can form. This might be triggered by any sort of skin injury, insect bite, acne, injection, body piercing, burns, and even minor scratches and bumps.

Common treatments

Keloid scars are scar tissue and can be treated in many ways, trust one of our highly trained providers to evaluate and suggest the best remedy to treat your keloid scar. Some approaches for successful flattening or removal of keloids can be a laser, surgical or freezing.
For keloids that are just showing up, you can try compression dressings that are stretchy fabric or similar materials. This method is also used after surgery to remove keloids, the goal is to reduce or prevent a scar by putting pressure on the wound as it heals. For smaller keloids, treatment with cortisone or other steroids can be used. Another way to reduce or remove them is by freezing them with liquid nitrogen, repeat treatments might be needed. Laser treatments can be useful in easing itchiness and can help keloids to fade. If your keloid hasn’t responded to other therapies, your provider might recommend removing it with surgery in combination with other methods. Keloids can grow back, or you may develop new ones.
Ask what solution is best for you and always check with your provider before treating on your own. We want your skin to look its best, which is why Healthy Skin is Our Passion.

Providers

Our approach & expertise

We realize the impact that keloid scars can have on both appearance and self-esteem. As your neighborhood skin experts, we’re here with answers to all your questions about this condition. What sets us apart from others is our focus on you as a person. Our warm, compassionate practitioners are ready to address your concerns and be an essential part of your support. Together with you, we find the best solution to address your concerns.
Contact us to know more about keloid scarring and how we can help manage this condition to improve your confidence in your appearance, and you can see why Healthy skin is our passion.

Lentigo (Age Spots)

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About Lentigo (Age Spots)

What is it?

Most types of lentigo are caused by sun or radiation exposure. Lentigo is most common in middle-aged or older people. Solar lentigo is caused by sun exposure and is often referred to as age spots or liver spots. Solar lentigo commonly appears in sun-exposed parts of your body. It can be found on any part of your body and is most often caused by sun damage or exposure to radiation. There are numerous types of lentigo, but the most common type is called lentigo simplex.
Lentigo maligna is a type of growth that develops in areas of long-term sun exposure, such as your face, arms, or legs. Lentigo starts as a brown flat spot with an irregular shape that slowly gets bigger. Eventually, the spot may develop into melanoma, a type of skin cancer that begins in the top layer of skin and then invades the underlying skin layer. See your doctor if you notice:
  • A new skin growth
  • A change in an existing mole
  • Any skin changes that seem unusual

What causes it?

Most types of lentigo are caused by sun or radiation exposure. Lentigo is most common in middle-aged or older people. Solar lentigo is caused by sun exposure and is often referred to as age spots or liver spots. Solar lentigo commonly appears in sun-exposed parts of your body.
Ultraviolet radiation breaks down the connective tissue — collagen and elastin fibers — that lies in the deeper layer of the skin (dermis). Without the supportive connective tissue, the skin loses its elastic quality. This condition, known as solar elastosis (e-las-TOE-sis), is characterized by yellowed, thickened skin with deep wrinkles that don’t disappear with stretching.

Common treatments

Lentigo doesn’t usually cause pain or itchiness. The spots are also non-cancerous, but they can resemble other types of spots that can be cancerous. It’s a good idea to get them checked out by a dermatologist. Common treatments are listed below and offered at most of our clinics, just ask.

Chemical peels

A chemical peel is used to removed damaged skin cells on your hands, face, or neck. During a chemical peel, a chemical solution is applied to your lentigo. The chemicals exfoliate your skin spot to uncover healthy skin underneath.

Cryotherapy

Cryotherapy is a method of freezing your skin spot with liquid nitrogen. It’s used for abnormal skin spots that are non-cancerous or precancerous. The treatment takes up to 10 days to heal from and usually doesn’t leave a scar.

Laser therapy

Laser therapy involves using beams of light to remove your lentigo skin spot. Laster therapy allows for a more precise removal than with traditional surgery. Many people who undergo laser surgery also have quicker recovery times.

Hair Loss

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About Hair Loss

What is it?

The average human head has more than 100,000 healthy hairs, and many people have well over 150,000. Typically, you may lose around 50-100 of these hairs every day, which isn’t noticeable. However, once you start to lose well over 100 individual hairs daily, your hair loss starts to affect your appearance. Both men and women are affected by hair loss but in different ways. For example, while it’s common for men to have a noticeable loss on their hairline or crown, women tend to experience thinning hair in a more random, widespread pattern. Women also usually have localized loss because of repeated hair trauma, such as from hair being pulled tightly back in a ponytail or bun.

What causes it?

There are various reasons contributing to the loss of hair. The most common causes include genetics, frequent stress, poor nutrition, certain medications, emotional issues, and trauma or injury.

Common treatments

The hair loss and skin experts at our dermatology practice have the experience and knowledge to provide you with solutions that stabilize hair loss and help stimulate hair growth. Among these options are Minoxidil, an over-the-counter topical lotion that we also offer in prescription strength; Finasteride, an oral medication; and Spironolactone, another oral medication.

Providers

Our approach & expertise

We understand the physical impact that hair loss can have on your appearance and its subsequent effect on your self-esteem. As your community skin and hair experts, we’re here to provide support, strength, and answers to all your questions. We have a variety of trained, experienced dermatologic experts and offer treatment options customized just for you. We’ll be with you every step of the way in diagnosing, treating, and helping you deal with this issue.
Contact us today to learn more about your hair loss treatment options and to start on the road towards an improved appearance and self-confidence.

Dry Skin

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About Dry Skin

What is it?

Dry skin is when your skin dries out because it doesn’t have enough moisture. It isn’t usually serious, but it can be irritating. If your dry skin is severe, you should see a doctor.
There are many causes of dry skin — from the temperature outside to how much moisture is in the air.

What causes it?

Dry skin can be different for everyone since the symptoms will depend on things like your health, your age, and the cause of your dry skin. When you have dry skin, you could have symptoms like cracked skin, itching, peeling, flaking, or scaling. Even more redness than usual, your skin can feel rough, and tight which can occur after bathing or swimming.

Common treatments?

When it comes to household skin irritants, the list is practically endless. It includes cleaning products, floor polishes, air fresheners, and laundry detergent, just to name a few. These products strip the skin of water and oils it needs, leading to dryness and irritation. For some people, dry skin can progress to more serious conditions like eczema or dermatitis. Always make sure that you stay hydrated, and when doing housework use gloves.
A good body moisturizer is always key, as well as a good facial care regimen that hydrates as well. Ask your dermatologist about what skin care products are best for your skin type to avoid getting dry skin.
We offer all lines of dermatologist-recommended skin care products at the West Dermatology store online, and products are also available in many clinics, just ask us.
We always want to make sure that you are looking and feeling your best, after all, Healthy Skin is Our Passion.

Providers

Our approach & expertise

We know that dry, lax, and wrinkled skin on your face or body can make appear older, which can impact your self-esteem. This is why, as your local skin specialists, we offer innovative skincare products to improve your skin and reinvigorate your overall appearance.
Healthy skin is our passion. Contact us today to learn more about skincare products and how they can help provide you with a rejuvenated and youthful appearance

Aging / Sun Damaged Skin

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About Aging / Sun Damaged Skin

What is it?

We realize that our culture tends to associate suntanned skin with a lifestyle that is healthy and active. Unfortunately, this is a myth that should be retired; sun and age damage go hand in hand and can affect you both physically and psychologically. A “healthy tan” is not good for your skin; any sun exposure, no matter how small, causes irreversible damage. The subsequent damage is not just skin deep, as it alters the DNA of your skin cells. That’s why as much as 90 percent of the signs of aging are related to sun exposure.

The sun gives off ultraviolet light that damages the skin and contributes to premature skin aging, dark spots, and other problematic conditions.

What causes it?

The sun’s UV rays are the main cause of aging, sun-damaged skin. Sun and age damage are linked because they exacerbate one another. Together, they reduce your skin’s elasticity by breaking down collagen while decreasing your skin’s shape and fullness. Telltale signs of sun and age damage include wrinkles on your face, neck, and chest, lines around your mouth and eyes, sagging skin, age spots, and freckles and/or moles.

Common treatments?

At West Dermatology, we have a variety of options to address sun and age damage, and we have the knowledge and experience to tailor it to your unique case. However, there are many steps you yourself can take to prevent and even repair your skin. These steps include wearing 30+ SPF sunscreen daily (even on cloudy days!), covering up exposed skin when outside, avoiding intense sun between the hours of 10:00am to 3:00pm, the avoidance of indoor tanning beds, and the use of moisturizing creams and lotions at night.

Providers

Our approach & expertise

At West Dermatology, we focus on you as a person. Our compassionate community staff works with you to address your signs of sun and age damage, and you can rely on us to answer your questions and be an integral part of your support system. Healthy skin is our passion. Contact us today if you notice sun and age damage so that we can help you repair and restore your skin.