February 21st, 2013

When it comes to one’s overall health and well-being, what many people fail to realize is the importance of taking care of one’s skin. After all, the skin is the largest organ on the body and does some pretty amazing things. However, as a result of genetics or simply poor skin care, it is possible to end up with a number of different skin conditions. This could be anything from eczema or rosacea to psoriasis or another skin condition. Luckily, there are dermatologists in Steiner Ranch who specialize in skin care and can assist people in taking care of their skin and dealing with the above conditions.

However, being able to choose a dermatologist in the area of Steiner Ranch is not always an easy process for those who are in need of a skin care professional. For this reason, there are some specific considerations that should be kept in mind when looking for an Austin dermatologist.

For starters, it is important to consider the specific type of skin care that one is in need of. After all, some dermatologists specialize is cosmetic skin care, whereas others provide specific assistance when it comes to skin conditions. From there, searching for the right corresponding type of dermatologist is a wise idea.

From there, those who have health insurance should look to see which dermatologists in the area of Steiner Ranch accept their particular kind of insurance. This is the best way to ensure low premiums on the type of care that they will be receiving. After all, skin care can add up to be quite expensive, which is why it is important to find one that will accept the insurance plan that one has or that will have flexible payment plans for those who do not have insurance.

For those who are looking for a great dermatologist that works with patients from all walks of life and that accepts many major insurance companies, it would be wise to check out the Four Points Dermatology clinic. This is a quality office that has some of the best skin care professionals around, offering the care that all patients deserve and are entitled to.

Overall, choosing a dermatologist takes some time and careful research, but the good news is that Four Points Dermatology is one skin care office that anybody can rely on in the Steiner Ranch area to get the assistance and care that they need.

February 21st, 2013

This humorous image portrays a very real and very serious issue. Those who use a tanning booth are putting their skin, and ultimately their lives, in danger.

Many people consider tan or bronzed skin to be a sign of health and beauty, but they may not know of the dangers that exist with the exposure to UV rays. For centuries tans and sunburns were recognized as being dangerous and undesirable, but in recent history a shift towards desiring tan skin has occurred. Our culture began idolizing the idea of having a tan in the 1920s, and that shift has come at a heavy price. Skin cancer has become much more of a problem, and the amount of skin disease related deaths has greatly increased.
 

The sun produces three types of ultra violet rays, A, B, and C. UVC is not considered to be harmful or dangerous to the human body, while both UVA and UVB are proven to damage skin and cause life threatening skin cancer. It was once thought that only UVB rays contributed to skin disease, and therefore created the myth that tanning booths, and tanning beds were a safe way to get a tan.

Tanning beds typically produce 97% UVA rays and only 3% UVB rays, which has led people to believe that tanning beds are safe, since UVB rays directly affect the skins surface, while UVA rays penetrate more deeply into the skin. Recent studies, however, show that UVA rays also damage the skin cells on the layer where most skin cancers occur.

There are many different types of skin cancer and UV rays are the lead contributing factor to all of them. While most types of skin cancers are not life threatening, all of them have adverse health affects and greatly reduce quality of life. Although it is one of the least common types, Melanoma is responsible for 74% of all skin cancer deaths, making it the most deadly form of skin cancer.

Unfortunately there is no safe way to get a tan, and being educated on this fact is the first step towards preventing all types of skin cancer. Dermatologists recommend avoiding all types of tanning beds and tanning booths. When spending time outside in the sun, proper protective clothing and sunscreen is recommended as well. If you need a professional opinion on a skin irregularity, contact your local Austin Dermatologist at Four Points Dermatology.

February 14th, 2013

Children have a unique talent for acquiring a variety of minor illnesses and conditions.  Their daily activities cause them to scrape their skin, bump and bruise their limbs, and contract infections that could result in rashes.  Rashes in children are common; even so, many parents worry when these skin irritations appear quickly or arise from an unknown cause.  Before they call their pediatrician, parents can benefit from knowing the common causes and treatments of pediatric rashes, as well as the services your local Austin Dermatologist can offer you.

Rashes from Insect Bites and Stings

As they play outdoors, children often come into contact with bugs and insects.  Bugs and insects can sting and bite during any time of the year; however, the spring and summer months tend to be the most active seasons for these critters.  Many kids as well do not realize that they have been bitten or stung until several hours later.  If they are not aware of a sting or bite happening, children and their parents might worry about the cause of the rash and how it should be treated.  Rashes from insects generally have symptoms that include:

•             Raised bumps

•             Itchiness that does not dissipate with scratching

•             Redness and swelling

While uncomfortable, these irritations often do not require medical attention.  Parents are advised to keep the area clean by washing the child’s skin with warm soap and water.  They can also apply rubbing alcohol to take away the itchiness from the rash.

Rashes from Allergens and Hay Fever

More children today suffer from seasonal allergies.  When they come into contact with an allergen, they may experience itchy eyes, throat irritation, and itchy skin.  In more severe cases of allergies, children may develop a rash.  As with insect bites, allergy rashes usually do not call for prompt medical attention.  However, children with known allergies should see their pediatrician regularly to have their allergies monitored.  Rashes from allergies and hay fever may feature the following symptoms:

•             Small raised bumps on the skin’s surface

•             Pink inflammation or redness

•             Moderate to severe itchiness that does not go away with scratching

Allergy rashes also may be more widespread across the body.  A child with this kind of irritation may experience the rash on his or her arms, legs, stomach, and even scalp.  Parents can administer the child’s antihistamine medication and treat the rash with a paste made from baking soda or oatmeal.

Pediatric rashes happen frequently and can typically be treated at home with medication or over-the-counter products. Most of this can be found at your local Austin Dermatologist office, so schedule an appointment today!

February 14th, 2013

If men and women in South Austin find that they are plagued by a growing number of skin problems, paying a visit to their local Austin dermatologist may not be a bad idea. Acne, though not a serious health threat, can nevertheless cause instances of low self-esteem for patients who are forced to deal with the problem. Through a range of carefully chosen dermatological products, however, professionals can call forth a treatment plan that will work wonders.

Facials

Facials are specially designed procedures that are meant to clear all of the impurities off of the skin. Because these procedures often make use of prescription medications, they can only be done at the office of a licensed skin doctor. In general, the chemicals will be delicately smoothed onto the face to create a mask of sorts. While the chemicals are in place, the doctor will use calibrated instruments to slowly clean out blackheads and whiteheads. Regular professional treatments should eliminate much of the acne.

Topical Creams

An excellent South Austin dermatologist can also examine individual cases of acne to determine if special topical creams need to be prescribed. Young men who have pimples on other areas of the body, such as the back and neck, might require a medicated cream that will clear up the break-outs. Back acne can be quite painful and will surely need to be treated by an expert.

Rinses

Dermatologists can also prescribe medicated body washes that are designed to be used in the shower. In general, the active chemical compounds in these washes will be many times stronger than the compounds found in over-the-counter products. With regular use, most skin problems should fade into the background.

Wrinkles and Scars

Dermatologists can also be quite skilled at helping with other issues. Wrinkles, for example, will give most men and women problems as they reach middle age. Creams and injections can delay some wrinkles from forming. Likewise, dermatologists will be experienced at reducing the appearance of scars. Through refined techniques, they can manipulate the skin in the affected area so that the scar is much less noticeable.

Choosing a Good Skin Doctor

In the end, Four Points Dermatology will surely give patients what they require. After an initial consultation takes place, a skincare routine can be discussed. As the troublesome blemishes begin to fade into oblivion, patients can regain their zest for life. Regular appointments will allow the beautifully radiant skin to be effectively maintained. Please contact your local Austin dermatologist with any questions.

February 1st, 2013

Austin’s reputation as a vital, robust area can be laid in part to citizens who put their best faces forward, and say job “well done.” At Four Points Dermatology we provide the Westlake area of Austin, Texas with a quality dermatology experience. Our skilled staff, led by Dr. Roopal Bhatt, M.D., specializes in dermatological procedures that correct skin problems not easily dealt with using over-the-counter methods. We want folks living in Westlake, and the rest of Austin, to know that no matter what age or skin type, count on us to treat each individual with care and practiced precision.

One of the most common skin conditions is acne. There are numerous acne treatments to be found in any pharmacy, but we strongly recommend that consulting with a dermatologist is the best way to devise a treatment plan intent on defeating the problem. That may include sophisticated chemical peels capable of erasing the acne blight. People who have suffered the embarrassment of acne for years are delighted to engage the world with their improved self-image. At Four Points Dermatology, we are proud to make that happen for the people of Austin.

Dermatologists encounter a number of skin problems that may seem less than serious. Included in this category of supposedly routine issues are rashes, bug bites and warts. Don’t be deluded into thinking nothing can come of a blemish that suddenly appears. Most rashes can be treated with home-style remedies. But if a rash is the result of an allergic reaction to something, it can cause painful hives to develop. Let your Westlake dermatologist know what’s happening. It’s his or her job to apply the correct treatment.

Bug bites, including those caused by fleas carried by family dogs, can become very uncomfortable. Your Four Points dermatologist might use chemical drips or prescription-strength aloes to ease the itching and general discomfort that developed at the bite site. Also, let your dermatologist remove any warts that may appear anywhere on your body. Most warts are easily removed using freezing techniques. The procedure is painless and only takes about an hour.

The real danger any dermatologist might deal with is suspicious moles. A mole that changed color or shape needs careful attention. It is crucial that malignant moles be diagnosed as soon as possible. Even removing a benign mole can bring mental relief for patients.

If you’ve experienced anything mentioned above, please do not hesitate to call your local Austin Dermatologist and schedule an appointment today.

January 29th, 2013

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January 29th, 2013

Laser technology has provided effective treatment options for people with dermatological conditions for decades, but in recent years, laser treatments have become less expensive and more specialized. People now use lasers for everything from laser hair removal to laser skin rejuvenation, and advances in laser science have allowed for minimal pain during treatment and a low occurrence of side effects.

All laser skincare treatments work on a similar principle. A controlled laser directs intense pulses of light towards the skin, causing localized damage that compels the body to repair the affected area. Lasers can effectively destroy scar tissue, reducing the appearance of wrinkles, acne marks, and tattoos. Dermatologists use different light frequencies to treat different parts of the body, and depending on the purpose of the procedure, they may use chemical photosensitizers to temporarily enhance the skin’s response to certain light frequencies.

In most cases, dermatologists need to complete a full course of procedures over the course of several weeks to safely treat their patients’ skin. For instance, tattoo removal typically takes several months with eight-week rest periods in between each appointment. Hair removal treatments require six to eight appointments. Acne treatments often require two to four visits. Because patients’ skin types vary, dermatologists closely examine their patients to create individualized treatment plans; a treatment that only requires several visits for one patient may require more or fewer visits for another. These treatments are typically affordable, and some are covered by health insurance.

Side effects of laser skincare treatments vary depending on the part of the body being treated and the patient’s skin type. Many patients report localized redness and swelling, which usually diminishes within a few days of treatment. Hair removal patients often report a pricking sensation during treatment, but long-term pain is highly unlikely due to the precision of modern laser instruments. Dermatologists often prefer laser treatments to oral medications and other treatment options due to the low occurrence of serious side effects with lasers.

Laser treatments can provide long-lasting results. Patients who receive laser hair removal treatments rarely need to shave or wax for years. Tattoos can be faded and eventually removed through a series of laser treatments. Photorejuvenation patients report greatly diminished appearance of scars, wrinkles and other aesthetic skin conditions. Laser skincare is an exciting tool for dermatology, and for millions of patients, it offers serious advantages over other treatment options.If interested in laser skin care treatment, please visit your local Austin dermatologist for details.

January 24th, 2013

A dermatological excision is an operation that’s used to remove suspicious, unsightly or malignant skin growths. The excision is used to remove cysts, moles, skin cancers and lipomas, which are benign tumors made of fat. Besides the lesion, a bit of normal skin surrounding it is also removed. Cyst excisions and skin cancer excisions can both be done by your certified Austin dermatologist.

What is the timetable for Dermatological Excisions?

There is often little preparation for dermatological excisions. The procedure is done the day of the initial consultation by a dermatologist who’s experienced in excisions. The patient will need to have a medical history taken, however. After the surgery, the patient will need to take it easy for about a week to ten days in order for the surgical wound to heal properly.

How Should I Prepare for the Operation?

Dermatological excisions are done under a local anesthesia. The patient doesn’t have to fast the night before but should wash the morning of the operation and avoid taking pain or anti-anxiety medications. The patient should consult with his or her regular physician if he or she is on any other type of medication. Ideally, patients should have someone come with them and take them home and stay with them for a while.

What Happens During the Operation?

During the surgery, the surgeon removes an oval of skin then loosens the skin around it and closes it with both superficial and deep sutures. This results in a straight line of sutures that’s considerably longer than the area of skin that was removed. The surgeon might also use a skin flap to cover the wound, or a skin graft from another part of the patient’s body. Skin grafts take longer to heal, but scarring tends to be less. Sometimes, the surgeon doesn’t suture the surgical wound at all but lets the wound heal by itself. This takes even longer to heal than a skin graft, but the wound can heal very satisfactorily depending on the location. When the lesion is removed, it’s sent to a lab to be tested to see whether or not it’s benign, malignant or precancerous.

What to Expect Afterwards

Patients might experience a bit of pain after the surgery, though this can be controlled by over the counter pain medication. There might be bruising and swelling, but these go away after a few days. Infections and a lot of bleeding are unusual, but intermittent numbness is common. There will also be some scarring, especially if the lesion that was removed was cancerous.

January 15th, 2013

Putting ink in the body to create an image has been used for centuries. In modern society, tattoos are a part of growing accessories and trends that are led by celebrities. The problem is that many feel remorseful after getting a tattoo or get the wrong image or lettering. Fortunately, your Austin dermatologist has some details about the options to eliminate that inked image.

Removal Process:

Learning about the tattoo removal process is an important part of making a decision. A tattoo removal blog offers key information about how the removal process works.

Tattoo removal requires several laser treatments that break up ink pigmentation under the skin. The number of treatments and the amount of time required will vary based on how much the tattoo has already faded, the size of the tattoo and the colors that were put under the skin. A recent tattoo will take longer to remove than older tattoos.

The average number of laser treatments required to remove a tattoo is around eight, but a large tattoo or a recent tattoo might take more treatments. Older tattoos that are already faded can take a little less time to remove.

During the removal process, treatments are spaced out over a set amount of time. In most cases, treatments require a month to heal before a second laser treatment is available. Doctors will usually recommend appointments that take place a month apart or slightly longer until the tattoo is removed.

Effectiveness:

The effectiveness of the tattoo removal process varies based on the individual. In most cases, it is possible to remove the tattoo completely. Some individuals might have slight ink stains that remain after the treatment, which will not have a recognizable shape and usually fades naturally with time. The ink spot is generally very light and barely noticeable.

Since the treatment uses a laser, darker skin tones can face slight pigmentation changes to the skin after the treatment. Light spots are a possible side effect, but usually only occur after the ink is completely broken up and the tattoo is removed.

Cost:

The cost of removal will vary based on the size of the tattoo. Most treatment facilities will charge by the square inch and charge with each laser treatment. For example, a one square inch tattoo might cost $40 for a single laser treatment. For the total of eight treatments, the final cost of removal at $40 per square inch is $320.

A tattoo is no longer a permanent problem. It is possible to remove the ink from the body and leave behind smooth and clear skin. The key is getting an appropriate number of treatments to completely break down the ink.

Visit you local Austin Dermatologist for more information on tattoo removal.

January 9th, 2013

Dermatology is the medical specialty that deals with diseases and problems of the skin. Dermatology encompasses a vast number of conditions and treatments. The field has also expanded to include a number of cosmetic procedures to enhance appearance. To understand the many facets of dermatological health, and before visiting your Austin dermatologist, you must know the basic “derm terms 101.”

Acne

Acne is a skin condition in which pores on the skin surface become irritated and undergo a light infection. The result is red, white, or black bumps which swell up with puss. These bumps are sometimes called “pimples” or “zits.” Most acne infections are temporary and can be treated with over-the-counter medication. However, moderate-to-severe or reoccurring acne infections can require professional medical attention and acne treatment.

Chemical Peels

Dermatologists often do a chemical peel as a cosmetic procedure to improve the appearance of freckles, wrinkles, sun damage or dark patches. It is a non-surgical technique in which acidic substances are applied to the surface of the skin to exfoliate the outer layers. The process can cause a sunburn-like rash or blistering for a short time afterward. This skin rejuvenation technique is very patient friendly.

Cryosurgery

Cryosurgery is the use of extreme cold to treat a number of skin problems. Liquid nitrogen is used for this procedure. Cryosurgery can help to remove benign skin lesions, warts, actinic keratosis and other sun-related skin problems. Sutures are not required and wounds generally heal quickly.

Cyst

A cyst is a sac filled with fluid that occurs under the surface of the skin. It may require piercing by a dermatologist to remove the fluid.

Excision

Surgical removal by cutting, as of a tumor or a portion of a structure or organ. When laser removal is not an option, dermatologist will generally choose surgical excisions as their next option, as it is very effective at removing a problem area. For most forms of advanced skin cancer, excisions are the preferred treatment.

Inflammation

Inflammation is one of the most familiar in derm terms 101. Areas of the skin may show redness, swelling, heat and sometimes pain. Inflammation can be caused by a variety of diseases including sunburn, infection, allergy and systemic problems.

Laser Treatments

Laser uses focused beams of light to treat a number of skin conditions, such as acne, acne scarring, brown spots, visible blood vessels, wrinkles, excess hair, wrinkles, large pores and tattoo removal. The dermatologist must be trained in the use of laser equipment and techniques.

Lesion

The term “lesion” is used to designate any unusual occurrence on the patients skin. It may be as simple as an area of inflammation or as complex as a tumor.

Keloid

Keloids are raised, pinkish scars that occur as an over-correction when the body attempts to repair a damaged area of skin. They can extend beyond the borders of the original injury and may require treatment.

Neoplasia

Neoplasia comes from the Greek “neo” meaning new and “plasia” meaning growth. These unusual cells may be benign or malignant and should be checked by a dermatologist to determine the treatment that is required.

Pustule

A pustule is an inflamed, pink bump on the surface of the skin that is often filled with fluid. These can become infected and may require treatment by a dermatologist.

Scars

A scar is fibrous tissue that replaces skin after an injury. While they are a natural part of the healing process, they are formed with a randomized protein (collagen) fiber composition that differs from normal skin, and thus has the potential to leave visible marks depending on the severity of the injury. There are three main forms of scarring: Hypertrophic (most common), Keloid, and Atrophic; the main differences coming from the physical makeup of the scaring and the skin complexion of the individual. Each type requires a different kind of scar treatment.