In today’s world, there are so many ways to fight the lines of time. But by far, one of the most popular is Botox.

Botox is basically a neurotoxic protein produced by the bacterium Clostridium Botulinum.  It was originally used to treat muscle spasms — but in 1997 it earned FDA approval for cosmetic treatment.  The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) reported that there were more than 2.8 million procedures performed with Botox in 2008.  (Just more proof about how wildly popular this anti-wrinkle treatment is.)

A Botox Cosmetic injection can do a few things. It can help soften the overall look of your face and reduce the animation in some of the muscles in the upper part of the face. (This results in a younger, more youthful appearance.) It can also treat facial lines caused by repetitive muscle movement, which we frequently do in my practice. We also use Botox to help prevent new lines from forming. Common injection sites for erasing wrinkles and lines include:

• Glabella (region between eyebrows)
• Forehead
• Outer corners of eyes (crow’s feet)
• Either side of mid-chin, for down-turned mouth
• Neck, for neck bands or visible chords

We also use Botox to treat:

• Facial asymmetry or other facial conditions that result from muscle action; this is called “facial shaping”
• Hyperhidrosis (excessive perspiration); common injection sites are underarms, palms, scalp and soles of feet

Remember — An experienced injector makes all the difference

Today, people often take the wrong shortcuts when seeking facial rejuvenation with Botox and other injectables. If the injector administers too little Botox Cosmetic, the results will not be fully visible. However if the injector injects too much, the appearance can be a frozen or stunned look. On occasion there may be some unevenness, meaning that one brow is higher or lower than the other. This is easily corrected with a touch-up or the patient can wait for the toxin to lose its effect. Usually the patient will look better within a few weeks.

Keys to successful Botox Cosmetic treatment include going to a doctor that injects regularly.  Also, it is important to articulate to the physician your exact goals. For example, if you want your eyes to be more open, to look less tired or to raise your brows, be specific. It is always my advice to seek a more natural look and have some animation.

Alternatives?

In the battle against aging, there are several alternatives to Botox Cosmetic.  One such option is GFX, a radiofrequency procedure that lasts approximately 1 year or more. This is due to ablation of the nerves which cause muscular contraction of the glabella — more commonly known as the region between the eyebrows.  Other options include Reloxin and Puretox — neither of which is FDA approved.

http://www.fda.gov/WOMENS/getthefacts/botox.html

Dr. Neil Sadick is one of the most renowned dermatologists and researchers whose multiple discoveries have strongly influenced and transformed the future of dermatology. He is a Professor of Dermatology at Weill Cornell Medical College and President of the Cosmetic Surgery Foundation. Dr. Sadick is author, or co-author, of more than 500 articles in peer-reviewed scientific journals and has contributed more than 75 chapters of medical books. Read more at www.sadickdermatology.com.

In today’s economy, we are all looking for affordable but effective ways to keep skin looking its best.  From the dollar store to the department store, there are many products available.  The reality is that most of them are great.  There are, however, home alternatives which often times don’t require a shopping trip.  Not only do these alternatives work, but they are also fun and simple to create.

TREAT ACNE
Acne can be one of those persistent problems, popping up at the worst time.  We’ve all had these flare-ups, which include pimples before a big party or that pimple that appears just before an important date.  The best at home treatment for acne is a warm compress, consisting of a washcloth and some warm water. 
Then follow these steps: 
1. Apply the warm washcloth to the pimple or acne-prone area
2. Hold the compress on for 3-5 minutes, continually warming it up as necessary, to maintain a warm feeling on your skin  
3. Be sure not to use water that is too hot — not only will it burn the skin, but it won’t do any good in treating the acne   
4. Repeat the compress every 2-4 hours until the acne disappears.  Depending on where you are in the acne breakout, your acne should clear up within 24-36 hours  

For an inexpensive product that can be used in conjunction with this remedy I suggest Unblemished Treatment Concealer by Beauty Benefits. 

UNCLOG BLACKHEADS
Not many faces are blackhead free… To help rid your skin of these, use oatmeal and rose water to create a soft paste.  Cover blackheads with the paste and rub it into your skin.  Wait 15-20 minutes and then rinse away.  You can also use this oatmeal mask all over your face for a radiant glow.  

If you are in a rush, and don’t have time to create the paste, simply head to your nearest drugstore and purchase Neutrogena Healthy Skin and Neutrogena Healthy Skin Anti-Wrinkle Anti-Blemish Scrub. 

CLEANSE AND EXFOLIATE
For an affordable but effective skin cleanser and exfoliator, I recommend creating a solution of sugar and water.  Before putting the solution on, open pores by first leaving a warm cloth over your face for a few minutes.  Rub the water and sugar solution gently into your skin and then rinse.  This does a great job and will leave your skin clear, clean and refreshed.

For a more aggressive exfoliator, mix in sea salt instead of sugar.  This can be used to exfoliate your entire body and works great on those annoying rough spots like feet, knees and elbows.

Not interested in making it yourself? Pick up St. Ives Apricot Scrub.  It’s a solid alternative.

ALLEVIATE DRY SKIN
Take a quick trip to your pantry and pull out a bottle of olive oil … Olive oil was good enough for the ancient Greeks and it’s good enough for you, too.  The ancient Greeks used olive oil to bathe and to moisturize dry skin.  Almost every vegetable oil is compatible with the skin.  Apply just after bathing to moisturize and protect dry skin.  Use it daily to help reduce dry patches and the appearance of stretch marks. 

While I recommend olive oil for any skin, if you insist on store bought, try good old Coconut Body Butter.

HYDRATE
Drink water every day.  We know it’s good for us in every way.  It makes your skin look great, too.

NOURISH YOUR SKIN
Facial masks can be fun and help rejuvenate your skin.  Try making one at home.  A honey mask is a great way to brighten and lighten your skin.  Mix one tablespoon of honey, one egg yolk and one teaspoon of olive oil together.  Beat the egg yolk first and then add the oil and blend well.  Add the honey with a spoon rinsed in hot water and blend well.  Apply this honey mask to your face, avoiding your eye area.  Leave on your face for 20-30 minutes and rinse.  The difference is visible.

A great alternative to the honey mask is The Original Mint Julep Masque available at almost any drugstore.

TONE AND TIGHTEN
NE Witch hazel, available at any drug store has been the main ingredient in most toners and is not irritating to the skin. It still works great on its own.  Gently wash your face.  Pat your skin dry and then apply witch hazel with a cotton ball.  If you have dry flaky skin, try diluting the witch hazel with two parts water.  Since witch hazel is an astringent, always moisturize after you tone.  Try mixing two tablespoons of witch hazel with one teaspoon of lemon juice and three tablespoons of rose water for a refreshing toner.

Be sure to keep witch hazel at home.  Not only does it do a great job of toning and tightening your skin, but it’s an excellent topical remedy for the treatment of traumatic bruises and bumps and promotes speedy healing.

MOISTURIZE
Moisturizing is essential for your skin not only because it locks in hydration, but moisturizer creates a protective barrier between your skin and the elements.  Making an effective moisturizer at home is not difficult. Take five to six drops of sweet almond oil and add a few drops of water. Mix the two ingredients in your palms, rubbing both hands together then gently smooth the blend into your skin. 

Moisturizing is the bottom line in skincare — almost any moisturizer will do the trick.  Eucerin Extra Protective Moisture Lotion with SPF is a great body moisturizer and it is available at most drugstores nationwide.

SOOTHE
From time to time you may find your skin red and irritated.  Taking care of red, irritated skin at home is as easy as a glass of milk. It doesn’t matter if you prefer cow’s or soy milk ― they both get the job done.  Soak a wash cloth in milk and then apply the cloth to the effected area.  Leave on the skin for at least five minutes.  Repeat as often as necessary depending on the irritation.  Milk sooths and calms the skin and helps to promote healing while softening and nourishing the skin.

For the store bought alternative, try an aloe vera gel.  It’s cooling to the skin and aloe naturally helps promote healing. 

MINIMIZE PORES
Our pores are an open target. They collect oil and often get clogged, causing the pores to appear larger than we want.  The easiest treatment option is actually free.  Run hot water into a stopped sink or a large bowl. Drape a towel over your head and lean over the steam.  Using the towel helps to trap in the rising steam.  Gently cleansing the skin or gently exfoliating the skin helps minimize the appearance of clogged pores.  Pat skin dry and use a toner to tighten and refine.

A great option that you can purchase in the store is Neutrogena Pore Minimizing Mask.  It will minimize the appearance of your pores and refresh your skin.

Dr. Neil Sadick is one of the most renowned dermatologists and researchers whose multiple discoveries have strongly influenced and transformed the future of dermatology. He is a Professor of Dermatology at Weill Cornell Medical College and President of the Cosmetic Surgery Foundation. Dr. Sadick is author, or co-author, of more than 500 articles in peer-reviewed scientific journals and has contributed more than 75 chapters of medical books. Read more at www.sadickdermatology.com.

While Americans spend a lot of time (and money) protecting their overall skin, they often overlook one crucial part of the face – their lips. The skin on the lips is very thin and fragile, which is why caring for them on a regular basis is important.

The Problem:  Cracked and peeling lips
Your lips are exposed to extreme temperatures, sun and wind, which causes moisture loss (whether you are walking outside in the summer or winter, sunbathing, waterskiing, snowboarding, or ice skating).  Cracked lips are found among people living under dry and humid weather conditions or staying long hours in centrally heated or air-conditioned rooms.

The Treatment: 
Refrain from the common reaction of licking your lips — instead, help them retain their natural moisture by using a quality lip balm with an SPF if possible.  Great products include: Clinique Superbalm, Labello and Neutrogena Lip Moisturizer.  Exfoliate lips on a regular basis using Smashbox Emulsion Lip Exfoliant, or Philosophy Kiss Me Exfoliating Lip Scrub.

The Problem:  Aging Lips
Many patients seek treatment when they find they cannot get rid of the wrinkles, lines, and creases which emerge on their lips.  They become annoyed as these lines cause their lipsticks to bleed and feather.
These effects are fixable and occur because the lips aren’t producing enough circulation or collegen. Without proper care however, lips can age prematurely.

The Treatment: 
Philosophy Hope In A Tube Eye & Lip Cream or Caudalie Contour Cream Eyes and Lips

The Problem: Chemical Reactions
Most common chemical reactions can impact lips and take place around the mouth when something in our lipstick, gum, toothpaste or mouthwash doesn’t agree with our skin.  Chemical reactions happen when there is sensitivity to one of the ingredients or preservatives in the products used.

Once diagnosed as having a problem/chemical reaction, I recommend a dermatologist perform a patch test.  The results of which will determine what you are allergic to.

The Problem: Cold Sores
Cold sores usually present as blisters or crusted bubbles. They can also appear on our lips as scabbed, inflamed bumps. There may be a clear fluid with a small amount of puss.   Cold sores are caused by a herpes simplex type 1 or type 2 virus. Cold sores must be distinguished from allergic reactions or to indiopathic ulcers or to a blister aphtha.

How to treat and prevent:
Cold sores can be treated with topical antiviral ointments that your dermatologist can prescribe including Acyclovir or Denevir or oral antiviral Acyclovir or Famir.  Cold sores can be highly contagious, so it’s wise to avoid direct contact. Try drying the lesions with gauze soaked in saline or salt water. Also, a dermatologist may suggest Burrow’s Solution which can be purchased from the pharmacy.

While cold sores can be embarrassing, they are also very contagious. Seek treatment from a dermatologist for the best path to recovery.

Dr. Neil Sadick is one of the most renowned dermatologists and researchers whose multiple discoveries have strongly influenced and transformed the future of dermatology. He is a Professor of Dermatology at Weill Cornell Medical College and President of the Cosmetic Surgery Foundation. Dr. Sadick is author, or co-author, of more than 500 articles in peer-reviewed scientific journals and has contributed more than 75 chapters of medical books. Read more at www.sadickdermatology.com.

Flip through any fashion magazine and you’ll see models donning long, dark, full eye lashes. So, how can ordinary women get the same glamorous look?

Well, there are always reusable false eyelashes, layers of thick mascara or a trip to the salon for individual lash extensions.  But, these are temporary solutions, which may come with some risk.

With the application of false eyelashes, patients often come in to my practice with complications.  They may have an allergic reaction to the glue, an eye infection due to reusing strips of false lashes, or skin allergies from the false lashes, which can collect and accumulate dust and germs. 

At the other extreme, we also help patients who come in because they have cut their own lashes in an effort make the false lashes look better.  Patients ask us if natural lashes grow back after they’ve been plucked or cut.  Sometimes they do – and sometimes they don’t.

The good news is — these ‘long lash’ problems could become a thing of the past with the help of a new treatment. In December 2008, Allergan, Inc., the company behind Botox, announced FDA approval for LATISSE™, a new treatment for growing longer lashes. Today, with help from a doctor with prescribing rights, consumers may be able to grow long, striking lashes. 

Latisse is a product with the same formula as a solution used to treat glaucoma patients.  A side effect of the treatment is that it tends to make the lashes longer and fuller.  Some experts are already worried about the side effects of Latisse which may include: red, itchy eyes and changes in eye pigmentation (especially on lighter eyes). 

However with that said, many women are overjoyed by its arrival and hope to lose dependency on other temporary eyelash solutions. 

So far, my patients are seeing very positive results from the use of this new product.

Dr. Neil Sadick is one of the most renowned dermatologists and researchers whose multiple discoveries have strongly influenced and transformed the future of dermatology. He is a Professor of Dermatology at Weill Cornell Medical College and President of the Cosmetic Surgery Foundation. Dr. Sadick is author, or co-author, of more than 500 articles in peer-reviewed scientific journals and has contributed more than 75 chapters of medical books. Read more at www.sadickdermatology.com.

With temperatures plummeting throughout most of the U.S., I continue to be bombarded with questions surrounding what kind of impact this harsh weather has on the skin.

Surprisingly, many ask if colder temperatures have medicinal or anti-aging benefits – but to date, there are no known anti-aging benefits resulting from very cold temperatures. In fact, low temperatures can make skin dry, raw and irritated. Exposing your skin to cold temperatures (such as winter weather and wind) can promote and contribute to aging.

So, how should you protect your skin during the winter months?

I‘ve always recommended patients use a thicker, richer moisturizer to create a barrier from the elements. I also suggest that patients use moisturizers indoors during the winter months because heated rooms can cause skin to become dry and dehydrated. Using a humidifier is also a good idea.

With that said, it’s important to avoid both extremely hot and extremely cold temperatures due to the negative impact on skin.

But the cold can also be very healing in specific settings. If you are fighting puffiness under or around your eyes, applying a cool compress has soothing effects and can reduce inflammation. Cool compresses may also reduce swelling associated with redness in the eye area.

I also recommend the application of cold compresses for the immediate treatment of a thermal or chemical burn. I recommend putting the affected area in cold water (but not ice water) for up to 30 minutes immediately after the burn. This type of cold treatment has been shown to reduce the total area of the burn as well as its depth.

Dr. Neil Sadick is one of the most renowned dermatologists and researchers whose multiple discoveries have strongly influenced and transformed the future of dermatology. He is a Professor of Dermatology at Weill Cornell Medical College and President of the Cosmetic Surgery Foundation. Dr. Sadick is author, or co-author, of more than 500 articles in peer-reviewed scientific journals and has contributed more than 75 chapters of medical books. Read more at www.sadickdermatology.com.

With all the hype about fighting aging through Botox and cosmetic fillers, we sometimes forget that the heart of dermatology is based in addressing common skin concerns.  This blog entry will be high-level overview of these concerns and some common ways to treat them.

The top ten skin issues we see at Sadick Dermatology are:
 1. Acne
 2. Allergic Rashes
 3. Eczema/Psoriasis/Dry Skin
 4. Suspicious Moles/Skin Cancer
 5. Hair loss
 6. Warts
 7. Nail Fungus
 8. Rosacea
 9. Herpes
 10. Pigmentation

Acne
Acne is a skin disease that affects more than 85% of teenagers.  In many cases, acne diminishes with age, but some people continue to have breakouts in their 30s, 40s and 50s. Acne can be treated by a number of over-the-counter remedies that contain drying agents such as salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide.  For more severe cases of acne, patients may opt for low-dose oral antibiotics, topical antibiotics, topical retinoids, phototherapy or laser treatments.

Allergic Rashes
These are changes of the skin, which change the skin’s color, appearance and/or texture.  Rashes may be localized or affect larger areas of the skin.  In many cases, patients complain of itchiness ― although not all rashes itch.  Obviously, not all rashes are the same and it is best to go to a dermatologist to identify the cause so that the best treatment regimen can be secured.  Learning the cause of the rash is the best way to prevent future breakouts.

Eczema/Psoriasis and Dry Skin
These are all somewhat related in that they are inflammatory, persistent skin issues that are tied to skin dryness and recurring skin rashes. They can be unsightly and annoying.  Treatments vary and a visit to the dermatologist is usually necessary.  Common treatments involve topical corticosteroids in the form of ointments, creams or lotions.  In severe cases, dermatologists may recommend photo/light treatments (PUVA or UVB) or systemic prescriptions such as biologics, cyclosporine, methotrexate or retinoids.

Suspicious Moles/Skin Cancer
Moles are another frequent skin issue.  With the increasing rates of skin cancer, patients should seek medical guidance when a suspicious mole appears.  For starters, moles are perfectly natural and can be influenced by genes or sunlight.  While moles are naturally occurring, it’s the appearance of the mole and its characteristics that distinguish benign moles from cancerous moles.  The four key criteria for moles relate to asymmetry, border, color and diameter. Sometimes evolving is added as a fifth criterion.  If a mole starts changing in size, color, shape or if the border becomes ragged or you notice bleeding, then it’s important to consult a dermatologist.  

Hair Loss
Many female and male patients come to visit my office to discuss hair loss which can be caused by a variety of issues.  The most common form is alopecia, a medical term for loss of hair from the head or body.  Alopecia can be a genetic phenomenon, hormone variation, or even a reaction to a hair treatment such as relaxers or hot hair irons.  In some cases it can be related to an iron deficiency.  For the best result, go to a dermatologist with a specialty in hair loss. This physician can determine the exact cause and provide a treatment that may include topical creams and ointments as well as special prescription shampoos and conditioners.

Warts
Warts are generally small in size and rough to the touch.  They appear most commonly on the hands and feet.  They are very common and are caused by a virus named HPV.  They are contagious when there is contact with the skin of an infected person.  You should also be aware that it is possible to get warts from using towels or other items used by an infected person.  In many cases, warts go away after a few months, but sometimes can last for years.  Treatments for warts vary from over-the-counter topical products, to prescriptions and cryosurgery.  While warts may be unsightly, they are not harmful and can be easily treated.

Nail Fungus
Many patients have concerns over nail fungus.  Onychomycosis is the medical term for a fungal infection of the nail.  This common condition impacts as much as 8% of the entire adult population.  It can appear on both finger and toe nails and is characterized by thickening and a yellow or cloudy appearance to the nail.  There is usually no pain associated with a nail fungus.  The treatment for nail fungus can be difficult because the infection is usually embedded within the nail and therefore difficult to heal with topical treatments.  The most effective treatments seem to be systemic antifungal medications.  These medications may have an impact on the liver and it is important to be followed by a physician.  Also note that it can take up to a year to clear up the nail fungus.

Rosacea
This is a widespread skin condition that usually affects Caucasians.  Rosacea patients have flushing and redness on their face and may also have small red bumps or pustules.  Rosacea can appear on both sexes but seems to affect people between the 30s and 60s.  Unfortunately, there is no consensus as to the cause of rosacea, treatments vary and a dermatologist should be consulted.  Some treatment tips are to avoid irritating topical lotions and cleansers and to use sunscreens with a minimum SPF 15.  Prescription treatments can include both topical and oral medications.  A dermatologist may recommend a photorejuvenation treatment.  Rosacea can be difficult to treat and many patients are encouraged to follow regimens and be patient.  It can take up to 1-2 years to get the disorder under control.

Herpes
Herpes simplex is a viral disease caused by the herpes simplex viruses.  Oral herpes, also called cold sores, usually infect the face and the mouth.  Infection of the genitals is also very common.    Herpes viruses have a cycle and there are periods where the virus is active and periods where the virus is inactive.  The active cycle can last between 2 and 20 days, during which sores appear and then disappear.  Recurrence times vary and there is no consensus on the triggers.  While there is no cure for the virus, there are treatments that can reduce outbreak frequency and duration.  Herpes is contracted through direct contact with an active lesion or the body fluid of an infected person.  Condoms are the best way to limit transmission because the virus cannot pass through latex.  The most common medications used to treat herpes include antiviral medications such as Zovirax, Valtrex and Famvir. 

Pigmentation Disorders
The final top ten skin concern that patients have relates to skin pigmentation.  Skin pigmentation disorders affect the color of skin.  The most common form of skin pigmentation that we see in our office is hyperpigmentation or the darkening of an area of the skin.  Hyperpigmentation may be caused by sun damage, inflammation or acne.  Individuals with Asian, East Indian and African skin tones seem to be more prone to hyperpigmentation.  Treatment for these darker areas includes medications that bleach or lighten the skin.  Common ingredients include hydroquinone, kojic acid, azelaic acid, ascorbic acid and retinoids. 

As in all cases, patients are encouraged to seek treatment and advice from a physician if there is a skin concern or issue.  In many cases, these conditions are covered by insurance and can be treated with either over-the-counter treatments or with prescription medications. 

Dr. Neil Sadick is one of the most renowned dermatologists and researchers whose multiple discoveries have strongly influenced and transformed the future of dermatology. He is a Professor of Dermatology at Weill Cornell Medical College and President of the Cosmetic Surgery Foundation. Dr. Sadick is author, or co-author, of more than 500 articles in peer-reviewed scientific journals and has contributed more than 75 chapters of medical books. Read more at www.sadickdermatology.com.

Winter is in full swing across the country, with temperatures hovering below freezing.   Many people experience dry, irritated, cracked and chapped skin due to the combination of cold air coupled with extreme temperatures from indoor heating and outdoor sports.  This time of year can be especially challenging for patients with eczema (a common condition where the patient experiences skin dryness and recurring skin rashes.)

The best way to prevent dry, irritated and chapped, cracked skin is to keep it fully moisturized.  The first and simplest step that I recommend to my patients is using a humidifier indoors.  Humidifiers add moisture to the air which can help you feel better and avoid getting sick.  The additional moisture can eliminate or minimize a dry nose, prevent dry, itchy or cracked skin along with helping many avoid allergy and asthma problems.  Most patients notice a difference in the skin severity immediately after the humidifier is in place. 

The second step to reducing the symptoms of winter skin is to use a moisturizer with a higher oil content.  These moisturizers form a layer of protection that literally locks in moisture. Ointments are also another good choice. An ointment is basically a water and oil emulsion that can contain as much as 70 to 80 percent oil.  You can also use any products on the market for “extra” dry skin.  While these do not contain as much oil as ointment, they do have higher oil content than traditional moisturizers, and this will definitely help protect and condition skin while reducing itchiness and redness associated with winter skin.

The greatest way to moisturize skin in winter months is to apply a moisturizer or ointment immediately after showering.  During this time, there is the added benefit of locking in the moisture.  Be sure to use warm (not hot) water for your showers. A hot, steamy shower or bath, while it can feel great on a cold day, can actually make your skin feel worse.  Opt for warm showers and for best results, pat skin dry and immediately apply a highly moisturizing lotion or ointment.  This will definitely help improve your skin and prevent it from drying out.

This blog wouldn’t be complete until we stress the importance of using sunscreen ― even in winter.  Sunscreens are not just for the beach and sun bathing.  Use a sunscreen everyday without exception.  I suggest using a broad spectrum sun block with at least an SPF of 15, but preferably a SPF of 30.

Other helpful tips include dressing in layers to prevent skin from becoming too cold or too overheated (indoors).  Sweaty, moist skin when combined with extreme and sometimes harsh temperatures can cause further irritation. 

In addition, drink plenty of water.  Not only does this help your skin replenish moisture, it helps your body in countless ways. 

This is the advice I have given my patients for years and I hope that it helps reduce your dry and itchy skin so that the winter months can be more enjoyable.

Dr. Neil Sadick is one of the most renowned dermatologists and researchers whose multiple discoveries have strongly influenced and transformed the future of dermatology. He is a Professor of Dermatology at Weill Cornell Medical College and President of the Cosmetic Surgery Foundation. Dr. Sadick is author, or co-author, of more than 500 articles in peer-reviewed scientific journals and has contributed more than 75 chapters of medical books. Read more at www.sadickdermatology.com.

With Thanksgiving behind us, we are quickly approaching the holiday season!  There are several skin and body care tips that can help keep you looking your best, while at the same time, keeping your skin healthy and young.

Whether you go on vacation this year or stay near home, you are always exposed to ultraviolet rays when outdoors.  With innovation and advanced technology, we have changed the paradigm to protect your skin against harmful sun damage, free radicals and environmental toxins.  I believe that the best protection is achieved by using a broad-spectrum sunblock (that protects against shortwave UVA and longwave UVB light) along with a high-potency antioxidant cream (containing active agents such as resveratrol, idebenone and vitamin C, and coffeeberry).

Whether you are skiing with your family or on the beach enjoying the sunshine, do not forget that the strongest sun exposure occurs between the hours of 12 noon and 4 pm.  These are the times you should minimize your sun exposure.  If you get sunburned, new red light LED sources are available from your dermatologist that can accelerate healing, reduce redness and decrease the potential for damage to your skin. 

During the winter holiday season, especially in colder climates, our skin gets drier.  So it’s important to stay away from hot showers which dry the skin and to be sure to apply generous amounts of moisturizer to your entire body while your skin is still damp. Moisturizers with SPF are always a good bet because they automatically protect your skin.

There are also several procedures that can make your skin look better with no downtime.  It may be a Botox treatment, filler treatment with Restylane, Juvederm, Radiesse or new generation collagen fillers such as Evolence that can get rid of those unwanted folds and lines.  These will all give immediate results and give you a refreshed, youthful appearance.

To make your skin look fresher, consider a light chemical peel, laser peel, microdermabrasion or an Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) photo rejuvenation treatment.  These are all easy, virtually painless, and have little to no downtime.  But remember; you should do such treatments at least two weeks before a big event or celebration. 

Dr. Neil Sadick is one of the most renowned dermatologists and researchers whose multiple discoveries have strongly influenced and transformed the future of dermatology. He is a Professor of Dermatology at Weill Cornell Medical College and President of the Cosmetic Surgery Foundation. Dr. Sadick is author, or co-author, of more than 500 articles in peer-reviewed scientific journals and has contributed more than 75 chapters of medical books. Read more at www.sadickdermatology.com.

The question always comes up, “When should a child be seen by a dermatologist, particularly for mole evaluations?”  Well, the answer is that any child that has multiple moles on his body at any age should go to a dermatologist. It’s important to assess the clinical aspects of the mole and see whether any of them have suspicious characteristics for which a biopsy or at least photographic documentation would be indicated. 

Most children develop these moles during adolescence so it’s a good idea to begin mole screenings in late adolescence or early 20s.  If there is a family history of skin cancer, particularly of melanoma, then immediate family should be evaluated at a young age.  If that is the case, screenings could start during mid-adolescence. Surveillance and screening are an important part of preventative medicine and can never be carried out at too young of an age.

Dermatologists remain the experts on skin disease, so it is always best for pediatrician or internists to refer their patients for evaluation of moles or other dermatologic problems such as eczema or acne to a board-certified dermatologist. 

If there is any suspicion a mole might have the possibility for changing into skin cancer, then either a biopsy or photographic documentation of this mole would be indicated.  Yearly follow-ups would then be appropriate to document any changes. 

The definitive answer is children with moles should be screened by dermatologists at a relatively young age.  Most moles evolve during adolescence and that is a good time to begin going in for yearly screenings. 

Dr. Neil Sadick is one of the most renowned dermatologists and researchers whose multiple discoveries have strongly influenced and transformed the future of dermatology. He is a Professor of Dermatology at Weill Cornell Medical College and President of the Cosmetic Surgery Foundation. Dr. Sadick is author, or co-author, of more than 500 articles in peer-reviewed scientific journals and has contributed more than 75 chapters of medical books. Read more at www.sadickdermatology.com.

Many of my patients come in for the same common skin concerns. They are typically unaware of what their problem is called or how easily it can be treated. The four most common include Poikiloderma, melasma, broken capillaries or ingrown hairs. 

Poikiloderma is basically a combination of blood vessels, redness and discolorations that commonly occur secondary to sun exposure either on the face, neck or chest areas. This extra pigmentation of the skin is usually displayed in a variety of shades and associated with widened capillaries in the affected area.  Effective treatment methods include intense pulsed lights/IPL and fractional laser technologies.  

Melasma, another frequent problem, is a skin condition presented as brown patches on the face. In many cases, both sides of the face are affected and most often seen on the cheeks, bridge of the nose, forehead, and upper lip. Unfortunately for women, melasma occurs mainly in females, as only about 10 percent of men are affected. This condition is also more prevalent among Hispanics, Asians, Indians, and people from the Middle East and Africa.

Also known as the “mask of pregnancy,” melasma can be secondary to pregnancy, or in women who are genetically predisposed and go on hormone therapy.  While it is made worse by excessive sunlight exposure, it can be treated in the dermatologist’s office using Retin-A, hydroquinone compounds, superficial chemical peels or new-generation Q-switched and fractional laser technologies.  It is most important to be sure to protect yourself everyday using a broad-spectrum sunblock when you go out because this condition will recur if you do not use adequate sun protection. 

Broken blood vessels are a common problem on the face, nose, chest and arms.  They usually occur either on a genetic or a sun-induced basis. New generation pulsed dye and KTP lasers can easily and painlessly remove these unwanted vessels in a single session and are cost effective.

Finally, we come to ingrown hairs. From women who get ingrown hairs in the bikini area or on their chin, to African-American men who are more susceptible to ingrown hairs – this condition plagues many individuals. The bright side is that these ingrown hairs, and the subsequent inflammation, can be treated by combinations of topical antibiotics and hydrocortisone lotion derivatives. 

If it is a recurrent problem, new generation advanced hair removal laser technologies including at-home laser technologies such as the no!-no! or Tria and Silk’n™ can also be very effective to decrease the inflammation. Keeping your face and body moisturized and exfoliated can help to dramatically reduce the occurrence of ingrown hairs, as well as using specialized soothing products such as Barc Skincare’s Barc Bump Down.

Although a high percentage of the population is affected by these common skin problems, we are fortunate to live in a time where there are so many advanced alternatives to treat them.

Dr. Neil Sadick is one of the most renowned dermatologists and researchers whose multiple discoveries have strongly influenced and transformed the future of dermatology. He is a Professor of Dermatology at Weill Cornell Medical College and President of the Cosmetic Surgery Foundation. Dr. Sadick is author, or co-author, of more than 500 articles in peer-reviewed scientific journals and has contributed more than 75 chapters of medical books. Read more at www.sadickdermatology.com.