Author: The Hair Doc

Your Guide to Skincare in Your 30s

Posted on by The Hair Doc

By your thirties, hopefully, you have a basic skincare routine in place. However, your thirties are the time when growth hormones, collagen, and elastin levels decrease. Additionally, cell turnover slows. All of this means that your thirties are the ideal time to start focusing on anti-aging skincare.

The best skincare routine is one that tones and hydrates your skin while maintaining a level of simplicity, so you can easily implement it into your everyday life. Here are a few tips to skincare in your thirties.

Don’t Skip SPF

Perhaps the biggest factor in aging is UV rays. In addition to being a skin cancer concern, sun exposure can worsen hyperpigmentation and wrinkles. For this reason, it’s essential to use some products with SPF every day, even though the fall and winter months.

It’s best to add in a sunblock product between SPF 30-50, but note that this may include a moisturizer or foundation with this benefit added. Contrary to popular belief, some dermatologists recommend wearing foundation every day as a minimal barrier between your skin and harmful UV rays.

Stay Hydrated

Hydration is key to youthful, glowing skin. Investing in a moisturizer is especially important in your thirties to help avoid signs of aging, such as skin laxity and wrinkles. Look for moisturizers that contain ingredients such as hyaluronic acid to hydrate the skin or plant-based ingredients like green tea extract or grapeseed oil.

Ensuring you drink plenty of water is also a simple and easy way to improve the appearance of your skin. Neglecting the basics in your health can start to reflect in your complexion, especially in your thirties, so make sure you get at least eight glasses of water a day.

Pay Attention to Your Eyes and Neck

Your thirties are the best time to start focusing on certain areas in terms of your skincare routine. Adding an eye cream to your daily routine will help minimize signs of aging like crows feet. Gently pat the product around the eye area with your ring finger to avoid pulling and damaging the delicate skin.

Your neck and décolletage are often the first places to show signs of aging, as the skin in this area are both delicate and often neglected. Make sure to moisturize and include daily SPF to your neck just as you would your face. And, no, running leftover product from your face down to your neck isn’t enough. Duplicating the moisturizing and SPF routine from your face onto these areas is most effective.

Look for key anti-aging ingredients

In terms of ingredients, Retinol and Antioxidants are the two that you should look out for in your thirties.

Retinol, a form of vitamin A, strengthens the skin and aids in skin cell renewal. Add in a retinol product to your nighttime routine a few nights a week, applying it before your moisturizer.

Antioxidant serums are also good products to add to your routine in your thirties. These serums, especially those that contain vitamins C and E, repair and brighten the skin.

Consider starting Botox

If Botox is something you’ve considered, your thirties are a good time to start the treatment. Botox temporarily paralyzes the muscles that cause wrinkles, so starting in your thirties before deeper lines have set in can help to prevent them from forming.

Schedule a Consultation

If you have more questions about skincare through your thirties, schedule a consultation with Jupiter Dermatology. We’d be happy to discuss your skincare plan as well as Botox and other treatment options. Request an appointment online or call (561) 748-0510.

 

Is There Such a Thing as Safe Sun Tanning?

Posted on by The Hair Doc

According to Dr. Mejia and experts, the answer is no. Even if you tan easily, your skin can still be damaged from harmful UV radiation that can cause extensive damage as you age. If you’ve ever heard there’s a “safe” way to tan while minimizing your chance of developing skin cancer, you’ve been misinformed. Let’s take a look at what’s really going on when you get a suntan, and how damaging tanning can be.

What is a Sun Tan?

While beautiful bronze skin may look appealing, the reality is this: A suntan is skin damage, plain and simple. It leads to premature aging and wrinkling. When your skin is exposed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, it immediately attempts to protect itself from damage by increasing its production of melanin, the pigment that gives your skin its bronze hue. Beyond its skin-darkening nature, melanin works to absorb and dissipate harmful UV light, thereby protecting the delicate upper layers of your skin from burning.

When melanocytes, cells just below the surface of your skin, are exposed to UV radiation, your body instantly reacts in an attempt to protect itself. Immediately, melanocyte-stimulating hormone binds to these specialized skin cells to initiate melanin production. In essence, the moment you expose your skin to the sun, your body perceives an attack and throws up the only defense mechanism it has — a suntan.

Is a Suntan Dangerous?

We all perceive a suntan as being healthy and sexy. This was popularized early on by Sophia Loren. However, experts will agree that any level of suntan is a sign of skin damage. Skin damage is a cumulative, long-term exposure that can lead to serious consequences. While that beautiful bronze hue may be superficial, the damage it can cause extends far beyond the epidermis. Ultraviolet rays are capable of penetrating into the deeper layers of the skin, accelerating the aging process or, worse, causing dangerous cell mutations. This is one of the major factors that lead to basal and squamous cell carcinomas as well as melanomas.

As sun damage accumulates, UV light begins to damage DNA within your skin cells. A sunburn is an inflammatory response you experience from direct damage to your skin cells’ DNA.  Typically it is due to the effects of UVB which are more of the burning rays. If the damage becomes severe enough, you’ll experience peeling and subsequent tissue replacement. This type of damage is directly linked to increased incidence of basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas, especially in individuals with naturally lighter skin tones. In fact, Caucasian individuals who experience five or more severe sunburns between the ages of 15 and 20 increase their chances of skin cancer by up to 80 percent! Even if you don’t burn, your skin is still subject to dangerous DNA mutations with continual UV exposure. One bad blistering sunburn in childhood can potentially double your chance of developing a melanoma.

Melanin, the molecule designed to protect your skin from ultraviolet rays, can cause indirect damage to skin cell DNA as a result of its reaction with oxygen molecules within your skin. Because oxygen is a highly reactive molecule with a relatively long lifespan, it is capable of damaging not only your pigment-producing melanocytes but surrounding cells, as well. Over time, as this damage accumulates, chances of developing the most deadly form of skin cancer, melanoma, increase dramatically.

How Can You Protect Your Skin?

To shield your skin from damaging ultraviolet rays, experts recommend applying sun protection each time you plan to venture outdoors. Even if the day doesn’t appear to be particularly sunny, UV rays can still penetrate cloud cover, especially at high altitudes or in areas close to the equator. When the sun’s rays are most intense, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher is highly recommended. We also recommend learning the shadow rule which is if your shadow is smaller than you, then the sun rays are most intense and sunblock is necessary.

Beyond wearing sun protection, you should avoid intentional exposure to UV radiation at all costs. Despite clever marketing tactics, tanning beds and booths are just as dangerous as the sun, if not more so. In fact, research estimates that individuals who use a tanning bed before the age of 35 increase their risk of developing melanoma by more than 75 percent! Most tanning beds use UVA and not the burning UVB rays. This allows people to get more exposure to UVA leading to melanomas.

Keep in mind that covering your skin does not always provide adequate protection. Just as UV rays are capable of penetrating cloud cover, they can also penetrate your clothing. Depending on the material, your clothing may block as little as five percent of harmful UV rays, so being diligent with your application of sun protection is essential.

Skin Care Specialists at Jupiter Dermatology

Despite its dangers, the ever-coveted sun tan remains wildly popular. While there’s no guarantee you’ll end up with skin cancer, there is simply no safe way to expose your skin to ultraviolet radiation.  You are at much higher risk if you have fair light-colored skin. If tan skin is an absolute must, you still need to be checked out by a doctor.  We recommend using a self-tanner. Regular checkups with a board-certified dermatologist can help you detect the early warning signs of skin cancer. To help protect your skin, contact our experienced team at Jupiter Dermatology to schedule your screening appointment today. Dr. Mejia specializes in Mohs skin cancer surgery and skin plastic surgery reconstruction. He prefers to meet you in different circumstances and therefore recommends regular use of sunblock.

 

The Benefits of Getting Regular Facials

Posted on by The Hair Doc

Facials are a great way to take care of yourself and your skin. The physical results from regular facials can include a more youthful, radiant, and clear complexion. Facials are also good for your general well-being, as they are known to promote a more stress-free mental state. Taking time to show yourself a little TLC can have massive impacts, both internal and external!

Improve Blood Circulation

Facials help to improve blood circulation. By doing so, your cells get an uptick of oxygen and nutrients that are carried in the bloodstream. This helps to make the cells healthier and operate more efficiently. It also increases cell turnover, which results in a glowing complexion!

Prevents Aging

As we age, our body slows down on the production of collagen, hyaluronic acid, and elastin, all of which help your skin retain a more youthful look. Facials use massages, serums, and exfoliating techniques that help to boost the production of these substances. This both prevents and can reverse signs of aging.

Detox Your Skin

Detoxing is a great way to help you feel refreshed and peaceful. Facials help to detox the skin with different serums that will remove dirt and impurities. The detox process for your skin aids in your beauty but also keeps your skin healthy. This will allow you to feel more confident in your appearance!

Helps You De-Stress

One of the biggest benefits of getting regular facials is that as an act of self-care, it allows you to destress. This allows some time for deep breathing, reflection, and solitude. Many patients feel relaxed and at ease after receiving a facial. This is not only good for your skin but also for your heart and mental health.

Facials can be an integral part of achieving ultimate skin health, radiance, and a feeling of peacefulness. Not only will your skin look great, but even more importantly, you’ll feel great! If you are ready for your personalized consultation, please give us a call or fill out our consultation request form.

You Asked, We Answered! Top 10 Questions about Botox

Posted on by The Hair Doc

Known for its effectiveness and natural results, Botox is one of the most popular non-surgical cosmetic procedures. Still, many people have questions about this treatment even though it is relatively common. While no amount of reading compares to an individualized consultation with a licensed medical professional, here are a few answers to some frequently asked questions about Botox.

What is Botox used for?

Botox has a wide variety of uses and is used to treat anything from excessive sweating to migraines.  Its most well-known and common use, however, is for cosmetic purposes. Botox can reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines in the face and neck.

How long does Botox last?

Botox is a temporary solution to treat fine lines and wrinkles. It typically lasts between three and six months.

Does Botox slow down aging?

While Botox lessens the appearance of wrinkles, it does not reverse them entirely. However, treatment can prevent fine lines from growing deeper and more noticeable. This is a large reason we have seen an increase in patients in their twenties, thirties, and forties as a form of preventative aging.

When should you start getting Botox?

There is no magic number when you should start getting Botox. If you have wrinkles that are starting to get etched in the skin when you are not moving those muscles (known as dynamic wrinkles) then it is time for Botox. However, once these wrinkles have formed, it is much harder to get rid of them than to prevent them from happening in the first place. Some choose to use Botox to prevent wrinkles from developing by starting in their twenties. Everyone is different, so schedule a consult on when the right time to start Botox is for you.

Can Botox lift brows?

Botox can be used for what is called a “Botox brow lift.” It works by relaxing specific muscles around the eye area. The position of your brow is partially determined by the balance between a group of muscles that pull the brow up and a group of muscles that pull the brow down. The position of the lateral brow is determined by the upwards pull of the frontalis muscle in the forehead against the downward pull of the lateral orbicularis muscle around the eye. With this treatment, the brows are lifted and appear smoother and more youthful.

Where does Botox go when it wears off?

Botox works by relaxing the point of specific muscles connected to nerves. Within a few months, the body develops new, unaffected nerves and metabolizes the Botox. This process is safe and natural.

jupiter botox results

Can Botox make your face numb?

Botox is not an anesthetic, meaning it won’t make your face numb to touch. However, you may experience a different feeling in that area because of your new inability to move specific muscles.

What are the side effects of Botox?

Generally, cosmetic patients can experience only mild and tolerable side effects following Botox treatment. These include possible bruising or swelling at the injection site, minor pain, headache, a fever or chills. These are temporary, usually subsiding within a few days.

How should I prep for Botox?

If approved by your medical provider, two weeks before your Botox appointment avoid taking aspirin, ibuprofen, Tylenol, fish oil, and other blood thinners. You should also avoid alcohol for three days prior to procedure. It may also help to increase your levels of vitamin K, found in dark leafy greens, to decrease or prevent bruising.

What should I avoid after Botox?

After Botox, it’s most important to avoid touching the area to prevent the product from spreading. It’s also best to avoid intense exercise or facial treatments in the first 24 hours after receiving Botox. Consult with Dr. Mejia for more after-care information.

When injected by a certified injector, Botox can produce amazing results, sometimes taking up to 10 years off your appearance. Request a consultation with Dr. Mejia or one of his physician assistants to learn more about smoothing fine lines and wrinkles and start on your own custom treatment.

Medical Mission In The Bahamas

Posted on by The Hair Doc

In the last month, since Hurricane Dorian devastated parts of the Bahamas, Dr. Mejia has worked tirelessly, in collaboration with various organizations, to help the Bahamian people who were most impacted by this monster storm.

Through his non-profit, The Sunblock Challenge, Dr Mejia has provided over 8,000 pounds of much needed supplies. For specific details, read the recap here.

Pictured above from left to right: Nurse Trina Sasine, Dr. Pam Mobley, Dr. Mejia, Dr. Robert Sasine, Volunteer Shea Lowe

In addition to relief supplies, Dr. Mejia also went on a medical mission to provide much needed medical services. In conjunction with Dr. Pam Peterson Mobley, and Nurse Trina Sasine, he treated patients at the Green Turtle Cay Medical Clinic. He treated not only the locals there, but when another relief worker, Dr. Cowan, fell off a ladder and suffered a compound fracture of his leg. Part of his mission was to fly with Dr Cowan back to Orlando to seek further treatment (see video recap of this effort below).

Throughout his ordeal, Dr. Cowan was a great sport and we wish him a speedy and successful recovery.
As you can imagine, there were many moving parts put into action when evacuating Dr. Cowan. Dr Mejia would like to specifically say thanks to the following groups and individuals:

  • The Green Turtle Cay Volunteer Fire and Rescue
  • Matthew Lowe from Green Turtle Ferry
  • Tom Rutledge
  • Dr. Pam Mobley
  • Nurse Trina Sasine
  • Dr. Robert Sasine and team members who aided in the evacuation & amazing care of Dr. Cowan

Dr. Mejia’s medical trip was organized in cooperation with, The Paradise Fund and Operation Airdrop. His pilot, in conjunction with, Pilots for Christ Mission in Tennessee, Michael Spurgeon flew in that morning from Nashville, Tennessee, flying the team over, despite the challenging, windy conditions. A special Thanks to all those individuals/organizations, as well, for their assistance, and support.

Dr, Mejia and his staff will continue to provide support to our Bahamian neighbors. They will obviously need our help for an extended period of time. This is the first recap of his recent activities, with many more to come. Stay tuned!

 

 

 

Debunking Misconceptions on Tattoo Removal in 2019

Posted on by The Hair Doc

Did you know that tattoo removal is a booming three billion industry? It’s normal to rethink the purpose of a tattoo years later and look for removal options. It is, however, vital to acknowledge that people have different perceptions and fears of laser ink removal. Although the best way to learn more is through meeting with a laser tattoo removal specialist, here’s what to know about some common misconceptions about removing a tattoo.

The scope of tattoo removal

Although most people are results-centered, it’s critical to understand what tattoo removal can do. Because most people have only ever heard of laser tattoo removal, the topic is home to misconceptions and many scientific untruths– especially because lasers are involved! The technique of tattoo removal is simple— it involves treating ink under the skin with a laser that delivers very fast pulses of energy. These pulses break up ink particles into smaller pieces so that the body can absorb and dispose of them through the lymphatic system. Despite the simplicity of the idea behind it, it’s important to always seek out a professional laser specialist for laser tattoo removal.

The time factor in tattoo removal

Time is a precious commodity in this process, and it’s important to understand that laser tattoo removal isn’t a quick process. You’ll need to account for about six to eight weeks between treatment sessions to give the skin time to readjust and, more specifically, to avoid scarring and pigmentation complications. However, this timeframe of this process can be different for everyone and depends on factors like how close your tattoo is to the heart, whether it’s professional or amateur, and the color makeup.

Are there side effects?

Yes, but most side effects are minimal and disappear after 24 hours. However, swelling may take several days but depends on each person’s body. During this period, you should be sure to follow up with your laser technician if you notice anything unusual. This includes hypopigmentation and hyperpigmentation— this is often a response by the body that creates darker or lighter skin than normal at the treatment area and can be permanent. It’s important to discuss these possibilities during your consultation.

Is it possible to have tattoo removal without leaving a scar?

One of the main concerns with tattoo removal is the fear of scars. However, under supervised conditions— and with using the best technology such as Q-switched laser platform– scarring is not usually a concern. Q-switched laser technology does not inherently damage the skin but rather targets the pigment underneath it. Still, it’s important to seek out an experienced laser technician who can recognize complications during treatment.

Why Jupiter Dermatology & Hair Restoration is a game-changer in tattoo removal

Jupiter Dermatology & Hair Restoration is home to some of the best laser tattoo removal professionals in the world of dermatology. During an appointment, Dr. Ricardo Mejia can assess your tattoo and goals and recommend the best laser tattoo removal treatment package for you at our Jupiter office. To get started, contact us by calling or filling out our online form.

Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer: What Are the Risks and Causes?

Posted on by The Hair Doc

Non-melanoma skin cancers affect between 2 and 3 million people every year. Most cases are caused by damage from sun exposure, though there are other risks and causes that everyone should be aware of. Let’s look at the most common risks and causes of non-melanoma skin cancer.

Risks

A risk factor is anything which increases the chances of a person developing cancer. Here are some non-melanoma skin cancer risk factors.

Sun Exposure

Exposure to the sun is the leading risk factor in developing non-melanoma skin cancer. The exposure often happens for many years before cancer starts. The sun’s UV light damages the DNA inside the skin cells, which leads them to grow abnormally.

A history of sunburn, having fair skin, and use of tanning beds are all risk factors related to sun exposure and skin cancer.

Age

Skin cancer can develop at any age, from infant to senior citizen. However, the risk of skin cancer developing increases as you grow older due to accumulated exposure to the sun and other causes. Conversely, young women are at a hightened risk due to a tendancy for more sun exposure. Additionally, middle-aged men also have a higher risk.

Previous Skin Cancer

If you have had skin cancer in the past, your chances of developing it again are higher than someone who has never had it in the past. It’s important to keep your skin away from the sun and look for any renewed signs of skin cancer.

Family History

Non-melanoma skin cancers don’t seem to run in families. However, some families are at higher risk of developing these types of cancers. For example, a family that has several members with fair skin is going to have a higher risk of developing skin cancer.

Certain Skin Conditions and Treatments

There are certain skin conditions that increase the chance of a person developing skin cancer. Those include solar keratosis and xeroderma pigmentosum.

Treating some skin conditions can also increase the chances. For example, ultraviolet light is useful for treating psoriasis and eczema. However, exposure to UV light increases the chances of developing non-melanoma skin cancer.

Causes

Potential causes of non-melanoma cancer include a number of things.

Tanning Beds

Regular use of tanning beds under the age of 35 virtually guarantees most or almost all patients in developing non-melanoma skin cancer

Radiation exposure

Those that have undergone radiotherapy treatment or have been regularly exposed to radiation at their job have a higher risk of developing skin cancer.

Weakened Immune System

People with a weakened immune system, like those with HIV/AIDS or inflammatory diseases, or who are taking anti-rejection drugs for organ transplants, are more likely to develop skin cancer than those with a stronger immune system.

Human Papilloma Virus

HPV is well-known for causing cervical cancer. However, it also increases the risk of someone developing non-melanoma skin cancer.

Chemical Exposure

Being exposed to certain chemicals increases the chances of developing a cancer lesion on the skin. These include, but are not limited to, pitch, coal tar, arsenic, shale oil, petroleum products, and creosote.

Schedule a Consultation

If you recognize any of these risks or causes in your health history or lifestyle, it’s important to talk with a qualified dermatologist about your concerns. Call Jupiter Dermatology today to schedule an appointment for a screening or to learn more about preventing skin cancer.

What Botox Can Do

Posted on by The Hair Doc
Botox has become one of the most common and popular forms of cosmetic procedures in the United States. However, despite its popularity and positive reviews, there are still many myths that surround Botox. One such myth states that people are being injected botulism, a bacterium that causes food poisoning. It’s information like this that drives away potential customers or leaves them conflicted on whether or not they should have it. We want our patients to be aware of the myths and the actualities of the Botox treatment.

The Backstory of Botox

Botox is the trademark name for the toxin that is produced by a bacteria known as Clostridium botulinum. Aside from Botox, this toxin is used for various medical purposes depending on the type. There are various types of this toxin ranging from type A to type G. With type A being the most potent, it’s labeled with the name Botox. There’s also another product that uses type A known as Dysport. Both of these cosmetic treatments have been certified by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) specifically for its ability to reduce facial wrinkles. Another version of this toxin is type B, which isn’t as potent as type A and is used for a product called Myobloc. Botox has become the term to describe all of these products, even those who prefer getting Myobloc or Dysport. New products like Xeomin and Jeaveau have recently entered the market. Regardless, all five of these cosmetic treatments are extremely similar, however, the results can vary. Dr. Mejia specializes in distinct differences to assure his patients get the best results.

How Botox Actually Works

Regardless of what some people may say, Botox doesn’t completely eliminate wrinkles. Instead of completely removing wrinkles, Botox temporarily prevents the muscles from working. In other words, it blocks the release of a chemical called acetylcholine in the nerves that tell the facial muscles to contract. Upon injection, the muscle stops working slowly over the next few days. This is why the term “frozen” Friday’s is used at Jupiter Dermatology since there is little to no dynamic wrinkling. But this does not mean that you will not have a natural expression. Dr. Ricardo Mejia has perfected techniques for all the different types of Botox injections. You will still be able to make natural facial expressions, but without creating more wrinkles. Of course, not every wrinkle is treated the same. As we get older, we start to lose elasticity in our skin. In some cases, a permanent crease may appear even if the muscle is relaxed. While Botox, Dysport, and Jeaveau cannot permanently eliminate creases, it can soften them up. Another thing to keep in mind is that Botox cannot be dissolved once it’s injected, so if you are unhappy with the result, you will have to wait until it wears off, which is between three to five months. In several cases, patients from other practices come to Dr. Mejia to correct suboptimal treatments that appear unnatural or irregular. That is why it is important to see a board-certified dermatologist who understands the facial anatomy to assure correct results.

When Will I See The Effects?

The effects of Botox usually take effect within two days and will be noticeable after at least five. However, the effects themselves last up to three to five months, which at that point will require you to get another injection. It’s also worth mentioning that anyone with wrinkles of the forehead or around the eyes and mouth are prime candidates for Botox injections. There are several off label treatments for Botox:
– necklines
– patients with TMJ or a boxy look
– raising the smile and corners of the mouth
– patients that have a gummy smile
– lip lines or smokers lines
– hyperhidrosis or overactive sweating
– migraines

Final Thoughts

Overall, most patients report satisfaction with their results from Botox injections. However, it’s important to have realistic expectations of what Botox can and cannot do. While it’s possible to see a dramatic improvement in lines and wrinkles, Botox cannot turn back the hands of time. However, At Jupiter Dermatology, multiple different services are available to assist in this goal. Botox has been used for cosmetic procedures for decades, as well as some other treatments such as excessive sweating. Botox is a great option for those who want a quick, minimally invasive procedure to give them a rejuvenated appearance.
In addition, improper injection of Botox can result in unnatural appearances. For this reason, in addition to overall safety and efficacy concerns, it’s important to only receive injections from a board-certified dermatologist, such as those at Jupiter Dermatology and Hair Restoration. To learn more about Botox and its uses contact the team at Jupiter Dermatology and Hair Restoration for a consultation.

Is Laser Skin Resurfacing Safe?

Posted on by The Hair Doc

Laser skin resurfacing is a very effective cosmetic procedure that can help get rid of age spots, acne scars, blemishes, and wrinkles. Although this procedure is notorious for its success, the amount of information available is immense and can be hard to wade through. Our goal is to inform you without having you feel overwhelmed. Here are some starting basics to know about laser skin resurfacing.

Types of Laser Skin Resurfacing

Laser skin resurfacing comes in quite a few forms with each one targeting a specific problem.

These types of lasers include:

  • Ablative lasers
  • Non-ablative lasers
  • Fractional lasers
  • CO2 lasers
  • Erbium lasers
  • Alexandrite lasers

What to Expect

Prior to treatment, Dr. Mejia needs to know your medical history including any medications you are currently taking. You will be prescribed antibiotics and also medication to prevent blister formation. You should stop taking certain medications and supplements two weeks prior to your procedure, those of which we will tell you in-office. Since smoking can slow the healing process, you will need to stop at least a week prior to undergoing treatment.

How is it performed?

After anesthetizing the skin, the laser is applied. Depending on the type of laser and depth of treatment, it may feel like a rubber band being snapped against your skin. Non-ablative lasers usually only require topical anesthetic for comfort. Since ablative lasers remove layers of skin, patients may need both local anesthesia and sedation during treatment, depending on the depth. Your comfort is of utmost importance, so the kind of anesthetics used will be discussed prior to treatment depending on your concerns and goals.

Suitable Candidates

The best candidate for laser skin resurfacing is in overall good health and has realistic expectations about the possible results. In addition, they may have the following skin concerns, which include:

  • Wrinkles
  • Fine lines
  • Acne scars
  • Premature jowl formation

Certain skin tones or those with acne flares may not be suitable candidates for ablative laser skin resurfacing. In addition, patients who are prone to cold sores or smoke should avoid ablative skin laser treatments. In any of these cases, we can discuss best treatment options for optimal results.

Recovery

After the laser skin resurfacing procedure, your skin usually takes three to 10 days to heal. The recovery period depends on the depth of your laser treatment, the number of areas treated, and how fast your body begins to heal itself.

On a side note, it’s normal if your skin becomes red and eventually peels after skin lasering. To minimize discomfort and promote healing, it’s recommended you keep the treatment areas moist with Aquaphor or Vaseline.

How Safe is Laser Skin Resurfacing?

When performed by a board-certified dermatologist, laser skin resurfacing is quite safe. However, it’s important to only have the procedure performed by someone who is skilled in both non-ablative and ablative laser treatments.

Follow-Up Care

Even after the initial recovery period, it’s important to protect your skin. Always apply sunscreen, even when it’s cloudy outside. UV rays can still penetrate through the clouds and harm your skin.

Schedule a Consultation

To get started on discussing your laser resurfacing options, contact our Jupiter office by calling or filling out our online form.

 

 

 

Can laser tattoo removal cause cancer?

Posted on by The Hair Doc

What to Know About Laser Tattoo Removal

Of those living in the U.S., nearly 30% of people have one or more tattoos. Statistics also show that about half of millennials have a tattoo. However, many people are not pleased with the decision they made. About 25% of those with tattoos wish they didn’t do it. But the good news is that a technique known as laser tattoo removal can remove tattoos with few side effects. But many people are wary of laser tattoo removal because they believe it can cause cancer. Here are some facts about the procedure and why there’s no need to worry.

Understand the Procedure

Laser tattoo removal works by breaking up pigment using very fast pulses of energy. Black pigments absorb all energy frequencies, which makes them the easiest to remove. Other colors require special laser frequencies depending on the pigment color. With the PiQo4 system, this can be customized to your unique pigments.

Before you undergo the procedure, our laser tattoo removal specialists will evaluate your tattoos and advise on the best action to take. We can then create the best treatment plan for you depending on the color(s), age, and size of your tattoo. The removal technique will also be affected by your skin color and how deep the tattoo pigments go.

What to Expect

Here are a few things to expect during laser tattoo removal:

  • The specialist will give you protective eye shields
  • The technician will check how your skin reacts to the laser. This will help them know the right frequencies for treatment.
  • The handpiece is used to administer intense light pulses through your skin. The light is only absorbed by the tattoo pigments.

Large tattoos require more pulses and treatment sessions to get rid of than smaller tattoos. Either way, you will have to go for several treatments for all your tattoos to be removed. Each session leaves your tattoos lighter. The process can be uncomfortable, but some patients do not require anesthesia. You may have to use topical anesthesia before you go for your first laser tattoo removal session. Immediately after the treatment session, take an ice pack and use it to sooth the treated area, spread an antibiotic cream on it, and bandage for protection. Whenever you want to go outside, make sure to cover it with SPF.

Negative Effects

Laser tattoo removal is safer than other methods such as salabrasion, dermabrasion, or excision because it selectively treats the tattoo pigments. The side effects associated with laser treatment are few, but it’s important to consider the factors below before you make a decision:

  • The area where the tattoo is being removed could get infected if not taken care of properly.
  • Your tattoo may not be completely removed or may need more treatments depending on the pigment. Often, some colors, such as black and blue, respond well to this treatment. Others, such as green, are more difficult to get rid of.
  • The result may leave you with slight hypopigmentation. This means that the treated skin becomes paler than the surrounding skin. You may also end up with hyperpigmentation that leaves the treated section darker than the surrounding skin.
  • Cosmetic tattoos such as eyeliner, eyebrows, and lip liner may darken after treatment, but additional sessions could help them fade.

Schedule a Consultation

Laser tattoo removal is one of the best and safest ways to break up pigment when performed by an experienced technician. To discuss your options and safety concerns with laser tattoo removal during a consultation, contact our Jupiter office by calling or filling out our online form.