August 26th, 2015

We write about skin non-stop. It’s our constant companion, our until death do you part partner, our most trusted ally or our worst enemy. People usually come to a dermatologist not as a preemptive measure, but as a last resort, or problem management. We’ve complied a short list of ideas to help you treat your skin right, so that someday you may come to us to refresh and rejuvenate, not damage control.

1. Drink more water.

If you are not getting between 7 and 9 glasses per day of water, you’re probably not getting enough. There are countless benefits to getting the right number of ounces, but more deleterious effects should you not meet the quota. Take into account how much you sweat when you calculate how much you need. Your natural moisture barrier needs plenty of water to help skin look more supple, fresh, and young.

2. Remove your make-up before bed.

Leaving on make-up overnight can lead to clogged pores, and irritated skin.

3. Sleep!

Your body repairs itself when you sleep, and this includes your skin. Your skin depends on this recharge time to heal and rejuvenate. Too little sleep doesn’t allow your skin time to do what it’s programmed to do and makes your skin look dull, saggy, tight.

4. Keep a healthy diet.

Foods rich in vitamins and minerals feed your skin. Eggs, oatmeal, bananas, some rices, lemons, limes, oranges, bell peppers, cauliflower, leafy greens, olives, spinach, nuts, some dairy and some meats have each have something good for you! Whether is be Vitamins A, B, C, E, or K, these foods can contribute to healthy skin!

5. Exercise!

Exercise gets that blood flowing to your entire dermis and epidermis, keeping you looking fresh and glowing!

6. Avoid stress.

This is easier said than done, but do your best to avoid stress. Stress causes a release of oils that can lead to breakout and acne.

On the whole, the do it yourself tricks for keeping healthy skin is to keep an overall healthy life style and treat yourself right. We’re here when even the best self-love needs an extra boost.

August 14th, 2015

August may mean back to school for many folks but that certainly doesn’t mean there’s a shortage of fun activities to enjoy in Austin. After all, it’s still summer so we might as well enjoy it!

The first event on our list involves one of our favorite parts of summer- enjoying ice cream outside with friends. Not only does event involve the delectable cool, creamy treat, but live entertainment. Head to the Amy’s Ice Creams’ Trick Olympics to see employees from the different Amy’s shops compete and show off their sweetest tricks!

Free, August 18^th at 7 p.m.

Learn more at: http://www.amysicecreams.com/latest-scoop/2013/5/20/9th-annual-trick-olympics.html

Next up on our list of August events in Austin is taking place this Sunday and you definitely don’t want to miss out! See the Austin Symphony perform at the Long Center City Terrace. This Sunday the brass ensemble performs, but don’t worry, if you can’t make it this Sunday there’s a different program next week. There is nothing quite like a concert in the park to end a relaxing Sunday!

Free, August 16^th and 23^rd at 7:30 p.m.

For more information visit: http://www.austinsymphony.org/events/austin-symphony-hartman-foundation-concerts-in-the-park/

We’re changing gears a little for our next event we think you should check out in Austin this August- see Def Leppard with Styx and Tesla at the Austin 360 Amplitheatre. See the legendary English metal band while their here in Austin on August 23^rd. This event will require tickets so hurry and grab your tickets while they last!

Buy tickets online, August 23^rd, 7 p.m.

Learn more and buy tickets at: http://thingstodo.austin360.com/delvalle/events/def-leppard-styx-and-tesla-/E0-001-080527337-8

If music is not really your style, head to the Austin Chronicle Hot Sauce Festival on August 23^rd. With plenty of hot sauces to taste you’ll surely find your new favorite! This event is free with suggested donations you can learn more about online.

Free, August 23^rd at 11 a.m.- 5 p.m.

Learn more at: http://www.austinchronicle.com/hot-sauce/

Rounding out our list of happenings is the Austin Pride parade and festival on August 29^th. Be part of one of the largest PRIDE events in Texas. The festival will feature several musical artists, as well as plenty of games, activities, food and drinks!

Festival: Buy tickets online, Parade: Free, August 29^th, Festival: 11 a.m.- 6 p.m. and Parade: 8 p.m.

Check it out and get your Festival tickets at: http://www.austinpride.org

Whatever you plan to do this August in Austin, we’re sure it will be a hit, with so many events to choose from you really can’t go wrong. But we do have to mention- with such great weather, Austin is the perfect place for outdoor fun, as we don’t want you to miss out, but please do pack plenty of sunscreen to protect your skin for the relentless Austin sun! And hey, it wouldn’t be a bad idea to toss a hat in your bag for some extra protection. We hope you enjoy August just as much as we will!

July 21st, 2015

Summer is here and we sure are feeling the Texas heat! Everyone knows they should put on sunscreen to protect their skin from sunburn and skin cancer. But other than the obvious use of sunscreen, some people forget that there are other effects of UV rays. Let’s take a look at some sun safety tips to help keep you protected through the dog days of summer.

Stay Hydrated 

Don’t forget to drink plenty of water during outside activity in the sun. Not only does the heat evaporate our water intake, but staying dehydrated can have long-lasting effects on your skin and physical health. You may feel faint or over-heated. Your skin will look dry and flaky, as well. Stay hydrated this summer and keep your skin looking youthful under the hot summer sun.

Lip Service

Your lips are also vulnerable to sun damage. Using lip balm will help keep your lips moist despite the dryness. As a bonus, make sure your lip balm has at least SPF 15 for added sunray protection.

Exfoliate Daily

Keep your face clean and clear during the summer months by establishing a daily exfoliating routine. Gently exfoliating your skin, brushes away the dead skin cells, dirt and make-up keeping your pores clear. This will keep your skin looking great all summer long.

Try Using Less Make-Up

Summer means longer and hotter days. To make sure your skin doesn’t take any damage try using less make-up. Make-up tends to run and clog your pores when you sweat. Using a little less will ensure your skin looks flawless in the relentless Texas sun.

Most important of all- Don’t forget to use sunscreen!

Want that permanent summer glow? Visit Four Points Dermatology for quality skin care from your local Austin dermatologist.

June 9th, 2015

Sensitive skin is a problem for many people, and it can often worsen in the summer.  If you have sensitive skin, it may need extra love and attention in this hot, hot, heat.  Excessive sun exposure, the outdoor elements (whether your weather is dry or humid), and the blasting of indoor air conditioning (super drying), can contribute to your skin’s sensitivity

Do I have sensitive skin?

If your skin is red, itchy, scaly, acne prone or if you have contact dermatitis (allergy caused), you probably have sensitive skin.

Why do I have sensitive skin?

There are a few reasons your skin might be sensitive.  You may be using products that cause damage to your natural skin barrier and force your skin to lose water.  Harsh soaps, detergents, irritating ingredients such as fragrances, salicylic acid, plant extracts and/or essential oils, and not cleansing your face of all dirt lead to sensitive skin.

What can I do to help care for my sensitive skin?

1. Cleanse your face once daily with a lotion cleanser based on your skin type.  Do not over wash your face!  Once per day with a cleanser is enough. This can lead to loss of moisture and damage to your natural skin barrier leading to dry skin.  Your skin should not feel tight after you wash!  If you have just worked out or have been sweating, then you might want to wash your face again.  If you just want to wash your face again, use only cool water and skip the cleanser.

2. Use that sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher). Keep it non-comedogenic (won’t clog pores), fragrance and oil free for best results.  Don’t EVER skip this step!

3. Use a gentle exfoliator twice per week.  Do NOT over exfoliate.  You don’t need to remove your dead skin cells every single day.  Doing so will cause more irritation to skin.  Consider using a chemical exfoliator as it is gentler on the skin.

4. Moisturize! Choose a sensitive skin moisturizer to help restore any moisture that is lost to harsh irritants. Moisturizers with lactic acids, alpha hydroxyl acids, glycerin, and anti-oxidants will help to restore hydration to your skin. You can consider keeping these products in the refrigerator to give your skin a cool treat.

Make sure you give your skin that summertime lovin’ it truly deserves by following the above tips! If sensitive skin still has you feeling down, visit your experienced Austin dermatologists at Four Points Dermatology.

May 8th, 2015

Understanding and Treating Exposure to Poison Ivy
Summer is almost here and Texans will be spending more time outdoors enjoying the weather. Unfortunately, this means less protective clothing and possible exposure to some of the risks of nature, including poison ivy or poison oak. These harmful plants can be found in most parts of the U.S., growing as vines around trees, stretching across the ground, or growing upright in the form of bushes. Resin urushiol, produced by these plants, is a substance that has an unpleasant effect on humans sometimes causing contact dermatitis. This is essentially an allergic reaction to something foreign to the human body. Contact dermatitis occurs in approximately 75 percent of those that touch this type of poisonous vegetation, and about 20 percent of this group may experience severe symptoms from exposure. Poison ivy will generally not pose a great risk to most individuals, but those exposed to it should consider seeking assistance from Austin dermatology services. Washing with soap and water can help reduce the effects of the resin, if done within 30 minutes of exposure. Additionally, many of those who are exposed may not realize that they have come in contact to the plant until 1-2 days later, after the development of a rash. The rash will normally consist of lines of bumps or blisters that may continue to appear for several days, creating the effect that the condition is “spreading” across the exposed area. However, this is actually part of the allergic reaction. The condition will normally heal itself within two weeks, but it can last longer.

Cortisone creams, some of which require a prescription, can help reduce the itching that usually
accompanies the rash, and calamine lotion has been known to bring relief to many victims. Those who
experience a severe rash may require treatment with oral steroids such as prednisone. The most serious
complication posed by exposure to these poisonous plants is the development of an infection caused by
excessive scratching of the affected area.

If you recognize any of these symptoms, seek medical attention from Four Points Dermatology. Poison
ivy treatment is one of the many health services available. A number of other cosmetic and surgical
dermatology services are also provided, covering the wide array of needs of skin care in Austin.

May 6th, 2015

Happy Mother’s Day, Austin! Its time to treat that special lady in your life to Four
Points Dermatology’s exclusive Mother’s Day packages. Give mom the gift of
relaxation this year with a skincare package designed to refresh and revitalize her
skin and herself. Two of our featured packages include:

THE GODDESS PACKAGE
This is the ultimate rejuvenation package with savings up to $625 dollars! Purchase
two Radiesse or Voluma fillers and get a free consultation, 20 units of free Botox,
free Obagi C-Serum for younger-looking skin, and free Latisse for fuller lashes. The
perfect gifts for mom bundled into one package!

THE MAMA MIA! PACKAGE
On a budget? Purchase 30 units of Botox and get five units free. Help mom look her
best all year round with this package. It’s great for mom and your wallet!
These are but two of the Mother’s Day specials that are offered. Check out the other
options on www.fourpointsdermatology.com or call 512-478-3376 for more
information or to schedule an appointment. We look forward to celebrating
Mother’s Day with you and your loved one!

September 16th, 2014

Most places experience a shift in temperature and air moisture from the summer to fall and winter months. With this change comes a change in the way your skin behaves.  If you live in an area where it becomes cold and dry, your skin make experience dehydration which can lead to red, patchy, itchy, dry, and flaky skin.  This post will focus on areas that become dry, therefore leading to higher incidences of dry skin in the winter months.

Dry skin is something that many people combat regularly, but the number of cases skyrockets during the fall and winter because people either don’t know, or forget to adapt their skin care routine to the changing weather. Here are some things to remember to help your skin look its best during the darkest days of the year:

1. Keep well hydrated. The colder and drier the air, the less moisture there is to aid your natural moisture barrier.  You should be drinking as much water as you do in the summer and winter months. This will help maintain your

2. Turn on the humidifier. This allows your skin to receive moisture from the air as well as your creams. The dry air from the outdoors mixed with the hot air of your heater can lead to the drying out of your skin.

3. Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize. Thicker creams are better for fall and winter months as they help retain moisture better.

4. Sunscreen forever. Even though temperatures are cooler and it may seem that the sun isn’t as damaging, don’t be fooled. While the sunburn causing UVB rays seem to have a winter vacation, the skin damaging, cancer causing UVA rays are present all year round. Slather yourself with sunscreen before you head out and every couple of hours after. UVA rays can reach you through your car and office windows. Constant vigilance!

5. Resist the hot shower urge. Water in general, and hot was in particular, are culprits of skin dryness.  They wash away natural oils your skin depends on to maintain its natural moisture barrier. Taking short cooler or lukewarm showers can help prevent a severe loss of your natural oils.  In addition to shorter, cooler showers, allowing yourself to air dry gives your body the opportunity to soak up the moisture left on your skin.

The fall and winter months can provide their own unique challenges when it comes to skin care. Make sure you listen to your skin and its needs!

August 12th, 2014

Sometimes, try as you might, there really is no answer for your skin.  You could follow all the tips in the world, use all the foam cleansers, toners, spot treatments, scar lighteners, and still you struggle.  If you are a fairer skinned, lighter haired individual, a chemical peel could dramatically help the appearance of your skin.  It is a quick and easy way to rejuvenate your skin and give it that something extra you’ve been missing.

What is a chemical peel?

Your dermatologist will apply a chemical solution to your skin, and the top layer of your skin will blister and then peel away.  It is similar to getting a sunburn, and you should stay out of the sun and away from skin irritants following a chemical peel.

The Benefits

The benefits of a successful chemical peel can boost confidence and self-esteem by enhancing the natural beauty of your skin. Depending on the severity of your wrinkles, age spots, acne, acne scarring, and freckles, the peel may be able to alleviate some of those imperfections.  The peel can reduce fine lines around your mouth and eyes, and some wrinkles that appear due to aging.  Mild scarring and some types of acne can also be improved by undergoing a chemical peel.  The best part about a chemical peel will be the overall revitalized look your skin will have.  The peel removes that layer of dull, dry, stretched skin, making it look younger, fresher, and healthier.

It is important to remember, that a chemical peel is not a onetime deal that will rid you of every imperfection you see, and chemical peels are not to treat severe skin conditions, scarring, sagging, or heavy wrinkles.

Want to learn more? Check out our chemical peel page and call us to schedule your consultation or chemical peel appointment!

July 29th, 2014

We all want to look our best at any age, and like seasons, which require different skincare regimens, the different seasons of our lives also require different routines. Check out these helpful tips to look and feel your best in your 40s.

1. Use a good, gentle cleanser, and use it right

Choose a creamy cleanser to help keep moisture locked in your skin. Clean your face thoroughly every morning and evening. In addition to using the right cleanser for you, don’t forget to exfoliate once a week to remove that pesky dead skin that contributes to a dull, lackluster appearance. For best results from your exfoliator, use a product that contains both physical and chemical exfoliants. Consider a product with lactic acid.

2. Hydrate

Drink water all day, every day. Don’t let yourself be thirsty! If you’re thirsty, you’ve already lost important moisture by then, and that moisture is what gives your skin the shine you want. Start and end your day with a tall glass of water (and drink throughout the day – depending on build, the Institute of Medicine recommends 9 (!) glasses of water per day for women, and 13 for men).

3. Moisturize

Oils. Creams. Moisturizers. All day, every day. Consider investing in the right for you moisturizer. Moisturizer should be your second favorite friend after your cleanser. Some experts even recommend applying one drop of oil, specially designed for application to older faces, on your face. Your skin no longer produces as much natural oil as it once did, and to keep a supple, healthy look, those oils need to be replenished. Thank goodness for technology.

4. Sleep

Your body repairs itself when you sleep, so make sure you give yourself ample time to repair the damage of the day. But make sure you’ve washed away all the toxins, dirt, oil, and make-up of the day.

5. Sun Protection

The sun dries out your skin, vastly contributes to wrinkles and discoloration. You need to apply sunscreen every single time you plan on going out into the sun. An SPF of at least 30 is recommended by the American Academy of Dermatology.

And lastly, consider in-office treatments! There has been a boom (and boon) of technological advances for skincare and dermatology services. Microdermabrasion, peels, and laser treatments don’t irritate the skin, and can happen quickly and conveniently. Schedule an appointment with our lovely staffat Four Points Dermatology.

June 17th, 2014

Four Points Dermatology wants to make sure you have the best, most efficient experience possible.  In order to accomplish this, we have created a Patient Resource page to address your logistical and informational concerns.  On this page you will find information about our new Patient Portal, have access to consent forms and new patient paperwork, be able to read our appointment cancellation policy, read pre- and post- procedure instructions, view accepted insurances, and contact us.

Patient Portal 

By signing up for our Health Portal, you will have easy access to an electronic copy of your medical history, be able to make appointments with us, and request prescription refills quickly and hassle free.

Forms

On the Patient Resource page, you will have access to necessary consent forms for procedures.  You will be able to read and fill them out electronically and at your leisure. You will also be able to submit them to Four Points electronically.

In addition to consent forms, you will be able to access and download new patient paperwork, record release forms, and a list of our accepted insurances. 

Pre & Post-Procedure Instructions

You will find a detailed list of instructions for Botox/Dysport Post-Procedure, Caring for Cryosurgery Sites, Sclerotherapy Pre-Op, Wound Care, and Sclereotherapy Post-Op.  You can view them by simply clicking on the blue download button.  You will need Adobe Reader to view the documents.  It you don’t have Adobe Reader, there will be a link to download the application below the downloadable forms.

Health Library

A new feature that has recently been added to increase patient knowledge about dermatology and dermatological treatments is the Health Library.  Learn about acne, melanoma, actinic keratosis, psoriasis, skin care, skin cancer, and other skin conditions.  Each link will lead you to a detailed page with extensive information, illustrations, images, and a list of links on the left sidebar for more information about each topic. You will also be able to search for specific topics under Conditions, Tests, Medications, Procedures, and Products/Devices. 

Our new service via VivaCare will provide an extensive health library, offering users general information on common disease and illnesses. We recommend that patients use this Health Library to attain effective information about their skin conditions and dermatological procedures in order to receive the best quality of care and knowledge.

We are very excited to be able to offer this new service to our valued patients and customers. Please visit Four Points Dermatology for more information on patient resources and to schedule an appointment with quality Austin dermatologists.