November 26th, 2013

It is estimated that over one million people will probably undergo laser hair removal this year. It’s obvious to see why people are drawn to laser hair removal, as it saves you time and effort when grooming. So, if you’re curious about having laser hair removal,  here are some facts about laser hair removal and what to expect if you’re considering the procedure:

Laser Hair Removal Facts

1. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, there were 1,118,254 laser hair removal procedures in 2012. This is up from 1,078,612 in 2011 and way up from 735,996 in 2000.
2. There are basically two types of lasers used for laser hair removal. For darker skins, dermatologists use the YAG laser. Lighter skinned people are treated with the Alexandrite laser. The laser targets the follicle from which the hair grows and destroys it.
3. A person will need more than one visit for the treatment to work.
4. The treatment area for the hand held laser device is about the diameter of a quarter.
5. The length of a session depends on what area needs to be treated. A faint mustache may take a few minutes. but it may take as long as an hour to treat hair on the back.
6. The lasers are so precise that they can remove the unwanted hairs and leave the skin around them relatively undamaged.
7. The overwhelming majority of people who have three or four sessions will enjoy permanent loss of unwanted hair.
8. Laser air removal best serves people who are dark-haired and light-skinned though advances have been made to successfully treat other people.
9. Areas where the skin is thin tend to do better than areas where the skin is thick
10. Repeated visits are necessary because the hair grows in cycles.

What To Expect

Before a person goes in for laser removal, the area will be shaved. Both the dermatologist and the patient will need to wear protection eye gear and the area of the skin to be treated will also be protected with a cool gel. After the session, the patient will be given an ice pack and soothing creams to place on the area to help with discomfort. The next treatment can then be scheduled within a month to a month and half and continue until the hair is permanently gone. It’s important for the person to wear sunscreen when they go out during the day while the area heals. This is true even for people with dark skin. The dermatologist with notify you of more skin care methods after the procedure to ensure your skin heals properly.

Looking for laser hair removal services near you? Contact Four Points Dermatology for quality laser hair removal and other dermatological services in the Austin, TX area.

November 21st, 2013

Facial and body acne can affect individuals of all ages. Suffering from acne can be very unpleasant, as it can affect one’s self esteem and sociability. There can be mean reasons for acne, but one of the most prominent causes is the foods that one eats. Therefore, below is a list of healthy diet tips and information to help mitigate the appearance of acne for a lovely and smooth complexion.

How Food Causes Acne

Before delving into what exactly one should eat and not eat and other diet tips, it is best to cover how food and acne are related. Studies conducted and published by the Archives of Dermatology have indicated that specific types of foods can cause acne breakouts. The reason for this is that foods that have a high glycemic index cause the body’s insulin levels to rise. When insulin levels are high, the body ups its sebum production, which clogs pores and results in acne. Here are some natural acne treatment and diet  tips!

Top 10 Diet Tips

1. Refrain from Fried Foods

Fried foods are accused of being the culprit of many of the body’s ailments. From weight gain, to sluggishness, fried foods are also detrimental to skin. Because fried foods are essentially processed carbohydrates, they cause the skin to become oily and clog.

2. Drink Milk and Eat Dairy… But not Excessively

Research has shown that most milk that Americans drink tends to be high in hormones. The high hormone content increases the body’s oil production, which leads to acne. The ideal solution is to monitor dairy consumption and breakouts and find the best middle ground for how much dairy is the right amount so breakouts do not occur.

3. Chocolate

It’s yummy, no doubt. But chocolate that has less cocoa and more dairy and fat is another cause of acne. It is best to eat chocolate that has a high cocoa content.

4. Fish

Fish is extremely healthy for the body, as it contains beneficial omega-3. In addition, it also has vitamins and nutrients that reduce the appearance of acne on the skin.

5. Nuts

Another product that one should eat to reduce the occurrence of acne is nuts because like fish, they contain omega-3 that is healthy for the skin. However, eat them in moderation, as too much can have the opposite effect.

6. Carrots

These delicious orange vegetables are known for their high vitamin A content, which has the property of strengthening the skin’s protective tissue and decreasing the chance of acne.

7. Chromium Supplements

Chromium supplements are known for their skin strengthening and acne reducing properties. Take a supplement a day to keep the acne away.

8. Zinc

Studies have shown that individuals that have low levels of zinc in their body also tend to have a high frequency of acne. Therefore, eat foods that are rich in zinc, such as cooked oysters, beef, spinach, and wheat germ.

9. Daily Multivitamin

Another cause of acne is not having enough essential vitamins in your daily diet. Reduce fatty and processed foods and create a balanced diet that is rich in vitamins. One can also take a multivitamin for an extra boost.

10. Exercise

This last point cannot be stressed enough. Exercise has been shown to lead to clearer more supple skin, though not through sweating necessarily. Along with the needed hydration, exercise releases tension and stress in the body. And as research has shown, there is a strong association between stress levels and acne. Exercise is just a good idea to keep healthy physically and mentally.

There are many ways to reduce acne, but the above 10 are some of the best natural methods. For luminous skin and a beautiful glow, follow our above tips.

Still having trouble clearing up your acne? Contact Four Points Dermatology for quality skin care and dermatology services in the Austin, TX area. Four Points Dermatology is renowned for their friendly service and the best Austin dermatology office.

November 19th, 2013

The winter months not only bring chilly weather, but also dry, flaking, or cracked skin along with the colder temperatures. Chapped lips and bitter skin can make the winter months uncomfortable and brutal. Here’s a list of skin care tips for preventing dry skin during the winter months, for those of you looking to find some relief through the changing weather.

Tips to Preventing Dry Winter Skin

1. Stop Taking Hot Baths: Take a lukewarm bath to protect your skin from dryness. Mixing in a small amount of oatmeal or baking soda with your bathwater will also help.
2. Slow Down on the Peels: Stop using peels, masks, or astringents because they strip the oil from your skin. Instead switch to masks that are characterized as deep cleansing, or incorporate cleansing milk or alcohol free toners in place of peels.
3. For Dry Feet: Use petroleum jelly-based products or glycerine for extra strength foot moisturizing. Additionally, the use of exfoliants on your feet will remove dead skin and allow the previously mentioned “heavy duty” moisturizers to be absorbed by the skin quickly.
4. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate: Drinking water will help your skin slightly. With that being said, if your body is more healthy overall, then bodily functions will be less taxed and operate more efficiently and allow for healthy skin.
5. Unpack the Humidifier: To counter the skin drying effects of central heating, set up humidifiers to replenish the air with moisture and help prevent excess skin dryness.
6. Drying Effects of Wet Gloves and Socks: They simply irritate the skin and can cause cracking or even promote eczema.
7. Help Your Hands: Keep your hands warm and use gloves when going outside. If wool irritates your hands, slip on a thin cotton glove as a protective barrier.
8. Sunscreen in the Winter?: That’s right, sunscreen in in the winter. This is because the sun’s rays are reflect off the snow and these rays plus the direct rays are both absorbed by the skin.
9. Moisturize: Increase the frequency of moisturizing and switch to an oil based moisturizer, because of the extra strength required during the winter. Humectant moisturizers contain ingredients that attract moisture to the skin as an added bonus.
10. Visit a Specialist: f you’re uncertain about what products to use or its impossible to find relief contact a local dermatologist for advice.

Looking for relief from your dry skin? Contact Four Points Dermatology to make schedule an appointment. Four Points Dermatology is the best Austin dermatologist that can help provide advice and solutions for avoiding dry winter skin and other dermatological services.

November 5th, 2013

For those who wish to visibly improve the appearance of the skin for a more youthful appearance, Thermage treatment can be an effective option. Thermage treatment can be used on many different parts of the body to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, to smooth out uneven and dimpled skin, reduce sagging skin, and even to temporarily reduce the appearance of cellulite. 

What Is Thermage Treatment?

Thermage treatment uses a type of radiofrequency that penetrates deep under the layers of the skin to heat up the collagen layers beneath. These noninvasive radiofrequencies can tighten up exiting collagen while stimulating the production of more collagen to effectively give a smoother, more even, and youthful appearance to the skin. Skin appears fuller, more elastic, and lifted while giving a smoother appearance. As a wrinkle treatment, Thermage triggers the production of collagen to help fill in fine lines and wrinkles, resulting in a tighter, lifted, and smoother appearance.

What Are the Benefits and Risks of Thermage Treatment?

The benefits of Thermage include its noninvasive technique that results in little to no downtime after the procedure. Results can typically be achieved in just one 45 minute to 90 minute session, with results that are immediately noticeable and improve over the next 2 to 6 months. Depending on individual skin conditions, the results can last for years. As with any cosmetic procedure, there are risks. These include feeling of cold and hot sensations during treatment and he potential for minor redness and swelling following the procedure that should fade within 24 hours.

How Effective Are Thermage Treatments?

Thermage is a good choice for those who do not wish more invasive methods such as surgery or injections. Thermage treatment works best for those who need only mild to moderate results. A more drastic change in appearance may require more invasive procedures. For those who want more noticeable and longer lasting results than what can be delivered through creams and lotions, Thermage can be an excellent choice. It is important to have realistic expectations for this procedure for the best satisfaction with results.

Thermage at Four Points Dermatology

If you are looking for an Austin dermatologist to provide Thermage treatment, look no further than Four Points Dermatology. An individualized appointment can help determine the results you can achieve and if Thermage treatment is right for you.

October 29th, 2013

Botox is one of the most well-known and safest skin care treatments. While an increasing number of people are choosing Botox treatments, people are still unsure about whether they need it. Here are the top ten reasons to choose Botox.

Top 10 Reasons to Get Botox:

1. Botox can offer relief from migraines. While the procedure consists of 31 separate injections in 7 different areas around the head and neck and it must be repeated every three months, that can be a small price to pay for relief from chronic migraines.
2. Botox is an extremely quick procedure that requires virtually no downtime. Depending on how many injections you have done, the procedure usually only takes between five to 20 minutes, and because it’s a non-invasive procedure, you can resume normal activities immediately.
3. Botox can correct crossed-eyes and other vision problems, such as eyelid spasms or blurred vision. Botox treatments can relax your eye muscles, allowing the eye muscle to heal because the muscles aren’t working against each other.
4. Botox is an extremely safe procedure. As long as you are working with an experienced and trained dermatologist, there should be no problems with the procedure. There are millions of Botox injections throughout the United States every year.
5. Botox can fight excessive sweating for up to two years. Because excessive sweating can be embarrassing in many social situations, this is certainly welcome news.
6. Botox is a non-invasive procedure. Botox can remove wrinkles and make you look younger without expensive surgery
7. Botox lasts from three to four months. While Botox can have a higher upfront cost than drugstore creams, most creams must be applied daily, making it likely that you’ll run out of cream long before you need another Botox treatment.
8. Botox is virtually painless. The majority of patients at our Austin dermatology clinic report no pain whatsoever.
9. Botox can help with bladder control. Injecting Botox into the bladder can cause it to increase in volume, reducing incontinence, and the treatment can last for up to six to seven months.
10. Botox can help fight allergies. A new Botox gel has shown promising results when injected into the nasal cavity, reducing inflammation and blocking nerve endings in the nasal passages.

Four Points Dermatology is a well-regarded dermatology clinic. Our dermatologists have years of experience in various skin care treatments.

October 17th, 2013

Men and women with fair complexions are often considered vulnerable to outside elements, particularly sunlight, and the adverse health consequences. However, people with skin of color are also subject to the same threats, and even conditions that are unique to those with dark complexions.

Skin Basics

Human skin has the same composition no matter the person’s race or ethnicity. The skin consists of multiple layers of ectodermal tissue that covers and protects the body. The element that affects the color of the skin and hair is melanin, a pigment produced by cells called melanocytes. The greater the concentration of melanin, the darker the outside appearance of the epidermis, which is the top layer of skin. A higher amount of melanin can actually protect the skin, but it also can be a source of problems.

Potential Risks of Melanin

An abnormal production of melanin, which can be brought about by excessive exposure to sunlight, results in the creation of brown patches on the face. Excess hair is another common trait among those with darker complexions. When hair that is curly grows back into the skin, the result can be a condition that reveals itself in the form of reddish and painful bumps.

Topical Ailments

Skin of color is susceptible to certain ailments, and in some cases can actually be more vulnerable to outside threats. Darker skin often does not heal well from cuts, burns and other types of trauma, and it can present difficulties in diagnosing such conditions as eczema and psoriasis. Skin disorders that are not properly diagnosed and treated can result in lesions that may progressively darken and last for years.

Sun Exposure

People with darker complexions also have to be on constant guard against excessive exposure to sunlight. Additionally, they should avoid skin piercing and unnecessary surgical procedures. Topical skin applications can be effective in protecting the skin, but the constant use of moisturizers can actually worsen cases of acne. A number of medical techniques are also available to help those of color.

Newer lasers that are considered “color blind” can successfully remove hair without producing the blisters and scars associated with the use of earlier systems. Skin care should be as important as personal hygiene, and a consultation with a dermatologist will go far in helping a person of color maintain an attractive and youthful appearance.

Do you know of any other skin care tips for people with skin of color?

Four Points Dermatology offers the quality of service needed to reach this goal.

October 15th, 2013

What Are the Symptoms of Hives?

Hives (also known as Urticaria) appear as raised splotches on the skin. They are often red and itchy. Hives may also burn or sting. Hives indicate that the body is having an allergic reaction of some sort. Hives are known to appear anywhere on the body, even on the tongue, inner ears, lips, and throat. Hives vary in size and can be as small as a pencil eraser and as large as a dinner plate.

Hives typically last anywhere from a couple of hours to a day, but medical attention should be sought out if they do not go away. In rare but serious cases, hives can block the air passage in a person’s esophagus or lungs. When this happens, the allergic reaction can be fatal.

What Causes Hives?

Hives are often the result of the body being allergic, usually to food or medicine. As the body’s defense mechanism to ward off the substance that is being rejected, histamine and other chemicals are released into the blood stream. This release of histamine and chemicals result in the red, itchy, and swelling skin welts known as hives. Hives result specifically when the histamine is released from small blood vessels into the skin.

Other causes of hives include animal fur (especially cat fur), insect bites, and pollen. Hives also frequently occur when one is allergic to shellfish, fish, nuts, eggs, and milk. In addition, hives often occur due to emotional distress, severe cold or sun exposure, excessive perspiration, disease (such as lupus, leukemia or any other disease affecting the immune system), and infections such as mononucleosis.

What Are the Risk Factors of Hives?

People most susceptible to hives are those that have allergies, such as hay fever. Infants and toddlers should be watched carefully to make sure hives do not occur from eating nuts, peanut butter, and other foods that frequently cause allergic reactions. Since young children and toddlers have lower immune systems, they should be watched carefully when given a medication they have not previously taken.

A dermatologist is able to offer advice on the allergic reaction and skin care that could diminish the effects of hives.

Got anymore questions on hives or treatment of allergic reactions?

Contact Four Points Dermatology the best dermatology office in Austin, TX that is able to diagnose and treat hives and other skin problems.

October 10th, 2013

Finding the right skin care regime for your type of skin is often a perplexing problem. Over the years, your skin may have sustained sun damage, acne scars, smile lines, wrinkles and a variety of imperfections on the surface layers. Chemical peels are becoming a popular choice for dealing with these problems. Four Points Dermatology can help you to choose the right chemical peel for your individual needs. 

Types of Chemical Peels

Chemical peels come in a range of types to suit different skin type and different skin problems.

• Superficial Peel – This type of peel is generally done with a gentle fruit or glycolic type of acid that affects only the very top layers of the skin.
• Medium Peel – Medium peels affect slightly deeper layers of the skin often with trichloroacetic acid.
• Deep Peels – Deep peels generally use phenol acid that penetrates deeply into the skin. This type of peel can bleach areas of the skin and must be used with care.

The Right Chemical Peel For You

Different Skin Types
Fair-skinned people generally benefit more from chemical peels than those with darker skin that may be prone to scarring and uneven color. However, some skin problems of darker skin can be corrected with chemical peel. Your dermatologist can advise you on the best procedure for your needs.

Recovery Time
Light peels will only cause slight swelling, redness or peeling of the facial skin. Stronger peeling chemicals will require a longer period of recovery to reduce swelling, peeling and a normal appearance. Redness and peeling may last up to a week before new skin grows over the treated area.

Chemical Peel Risks
People who have a tendency to scarring, you should inform your dermatologist to ensure that the proper techniques and compounds are used. Your doctor may ask you to stop taking certain medications or using certain facial products that can interfere with the procedure. If you have any ongoing health problems, inform your physician to ensure that these factors are taken into consideration.

Think you’re ready for a chemical peel?

These factors make it important to get the correct chemical peel procedure for your skin type. At Four Points Dermatology you will consult with a trained dermatologist with experience in dealing with different skin types. Call us today for a consultation to discuss your skin care needs.

October 8th, 2013

Stressed Skin

Everyone knows that stress can affect one’s heart, blood pressure and digestion, but most people don’t know that stress can also affect the skin. Many people have noticed that during times of stress their complexions may look awful or break out more often. The skin is the largest organ of the body, and like any other organ, it will be affected by one’s mental and emotional state. When one experiences times of joy and relaxation, the skin will glow with good cheer. However, during times of strain and difficulty, fine lines are more pronounced, cold sores pop up randomly and pimples appear over night.

When dealing with troublesome problems and stressful situations, the body releases chemicals that are designed to ramp up the organs’ activities. The heartbeat and respiration increase, and the immune system is suppressed. These activities are designed to help one think and act quickly in emergency situations. However, the human body is not designed to stay in “fight or flight” mode very long. After several days of intense strain, stress begins to make itself felt.

In stressful times, the skin’s response is to increase secretions of the oil glands, increase inflammation and decrease immune response. The end result of these activities can lead to more frequent acne breakouts, incessant skin inflammations like psoriasis or eczema and recurrent cold sores. The body’s heightened state can also cause incidences of itchy, allergic hives. 

Steps to Relieve Stress 

If one’s skin is showing the effects of long-term stress, there are still some steps to take to improve the appearance. First, one should try to consider ways to reduce stress. Some may need to see a counselor if the problems are emotional or relational in nature. Perhaps some commitments can temporarily be laid aside or passed to friends and family. Additionally, stress relief techniques like deep breathing and meditation can help people through tough times.

Second, people should care for the entire body with proper diet, exercise and rest. If one does not eat healthy, nourishing food, it will show up in the skin. A steady diet of drive-through dinners will only make a person feel and look worse. Exercise is great stress relief in itself, and it will improve blood flow to the skin and muscle tone. Getting adequate rest is essential to surviving stressful situations. If one is having trouble sleeping, relaxation techniques can be practiced, and a doctor’s prescription for for a non-addictive sleep aid will help as well.

Third, the skin care routine should be tailored to the issues that one is facing. If stress-induced acne is an issue that one has never before encountered, a dermatologist will be of great help. Additionally, rosacea, eczema and psoriasis mean that the skin will need plenty of tender, loving care. Even if one is pressed for time, treating these skin issues is essential.

Stressful times are a part of almost every adult’s life, and the only thing one can do is to keep on going. Eventually, everyone makes it through these hard times, and the sun will shine in life once again. The high-quality practitioners at Four Points Dermatology are glad to help any one care for their skin during difficulties so that they can look their best even when things are hard.

October 1st, 2013

Most people want to use the best skin care products possible. Good products will target specific skin types or issues. There are numerous choices on the market including “all natural” and “organic” labels. Here is a closer look at whether or not these items really work.

Most individuals believe that “all natural” and “organic” mean the same thing. However, organic products are the only items regulated by the USDA. They must contain certain amounts of organic ingredients and follow particular labeling standards. Natural products are not regulated by the FDA, so no clinical data is necessary to make claims about them.

Many organic products have the ability to work well. For instance, products that contain aloe vera and honey can effectively clean the skin, while remaining gentle. Aloe is known for its soothing and healing properties. Avocado oil is often used to moisturize skin and keep it soft. A dermatologist usually recommends using a skin care line that does not contain a large amount of chemicals. The reason for this is to protect skin from serious damage. However, it is important to realize that certain natural oils can also irritate skin. In fact, some may actually lead to acne breakouts. Some natural brands contain hidden chemicals that are necessary to give positive results.

Four Points Dermatology is one of the leading Austin dermatologist offices in the area. This is a quality practice that recommends skincare products and treatments on an individual basis. When a person is in need of skin care services, it is wise to schedule an appointment. When a person uses skin care products that are recommended by a dermatologist, it will keep skin as youthful and radiant as possible. There will be no worries that skin will become damaged.

It is essential to uncover a skin care line that really works. When choosing skin products, it is important to read labels. Organic products may be able to keep skin looking good, but come with a higher cost. Working with a qualified dermatologist will help a person select or create the best products that will work for individual skin types and problems. In the end, skin will appear healthy and vibrant.