Blog - Rao Dermatology

Protecting Your Skin During the Winter

It is no secret that the climate, temperature, and atmosphere have an impact on your skin. While summer is your opportunity to bare it all – with sunscreen, of course – winter is the season of covering up. At Rao Dermatology, we want you to cover up with a purpose; allow your skin to get its best care while in hibernation. As such, we’ve combined a list of protective techniques to ensure that when spring rolls back around, your skin’s glow will be noticeable and healthy.

Speak with your dermatologist

One of the first, and perhaps most impactful, things you can do for your skin as the dryness of winter embarks, is to book an appointment with your dermatologist. Why? Far too often you ‘treat’ your skin without an understanding of the exact care it needs. Your dermatologist can assess your skin type and inform you on the correct products & regimens that will prove beneficial. For example, if you have oily skin and you apply products that are for individuals with dry skin, you will be disappointed with the outcome of your winter application.

Hydrate

Water consumption typically decreases during winter because of the temperature drop in our weather. The sun is not necessarily beating down on you to trigger your thirst. Try to be intentional about consuming your eight glasses of water daily. Your skin’s hydration is equally important during the winter. Hot drinks may warm your bones, but water will sooth your skin and overall health.

Test the air quality in your home

You’re ready to turn up the heat in your home and crank the fireplace to keep warm. What about fresh air? If you need to maintain moisture in the air, invest in a humidifier. Place the unit in a central location or purchase small units and distribute them evenly around your home to prevent your skin from drying out.

Moisturize

We cannot emphasize enough how crucial it is to moisturize. Don’t limit your moisturizing as a home activity. Carry lotion in your bag; keep one moisturizer at work and one in the car. Winter easily sucks the life out of your skin, so you’ll have to be responsible for putting putting life back into it. Exfoliate regularly and use natural oils such as coconut, shea butter, and avocado to keep your skin moist and refreshed.

Factors that Contribute to Premature Aging and Wrinkles

Let’s face it: The first sign of aging is usually accompanied by panic – especially when it is premature. There are a myriad of factors that can impact aging – some which can be controlled. If you’d like to reduce the risk of premature aging, aim to eliminate the following risk factors.

Stress

If you worry about getting older, your mind can allow that very thought to materialize. Additionally, any form of stress is a recipe for aging. Fill your mind with positive thoughts; practice self-love & care daily. If you maintain an attitude of optimism and a genuine love for the skin you’re in, your skin will react positively to that.

Smoking, drinking, and an unhealthy diet

A glass of wine here and a cigar there are hardly damaging to your skin. However, if you are a regular smoker and drinker, you can expect to add a few years to your age in appearance. Additionally, an unhealthy diet will slow your organs and contribute to sluggish behaviour. These factors, both individually and together, are detrimental to premature aging.

Staying out late

The nightclubs may be where the party is at, but it’s also where aging festers. The later and more frequently you stay out late, the more likely it is that your skin becomes thin. Because of this, wrinkles will develop. Excessive tanning and exposure to the sun also have the same effect.

Heredity

It is worth mentioning that where the probability for wrinkles is much greater genetically, it is still necessary to be particularly intentional about avoiding some of the aforementioned factors.

If you notice signs of premature aging, consult with one of our dermatologists for treatment.

Understanding the Procedure of ThermiRF

Dermatologists frequently look to advanced technology to revolutionize skin care. One of the leading developments that is expanding and yielding noteworthy results is ThermiRF. Approved by the Food and Drug Administration in 2013, 20ThermiRF is a radioactive frequency that implements a cannula “to target the dermal and subdermal planes and enables more precise dual monitoring of the external and internal tissue temperature” (Pritzker and Robinson) to tighten the skin and reduce wrinkles. Typically, there are five procedures; namely, Thermitight, Thermismooth, ThermiRase, ThermiVA, and ThermiDry. Each treatment has their respective differences. While ThermiRF is popular for its minimal downtime, insignificant discomfort, and minimal risk of injury and results, it is the procedure itself that intrigues clients.

How does it work?

In a 2014 article regarding noninvasive & minimally invasive skin tightening methods published by medical doctors, Rachel Pritzker and Deanne Robinson, doctors take a closer look at, and break down, the procedural aspect of ThermiRF. Notwithstanding all medical background checks and initial consultations with a dermatologist, ThermiRF is initiated with markings on the treatment zone. Secondly, a preheated tumescent solution is inserted at “small entrance sites at the apex of each treatment zone.” Depending on the surface area, approximately 60cc to 80cc of solution is utilized for the neck, a lower volume than the amount typically required in traditional tumescent liposuction. A treatment probe about 10 cm long, with a pre-determined temperature, is cautiously applied to the treatment zone “until distribution of the desired heat is visible on the real-time image displayed from the FLIR camera”. Treatment time for each respective zone ranges between 4 and 6 minutes. Although results vary from patient to patient, treatment is, on average, visible in 1 to 3 weeks. Doctors emphasize that a crucial part of the procedure is maintaining temperature. Collagen tightening denaturation requires a threshold temperature of 60 degrees Celsius. As a result, doctors monitor the FLIR camera to ensure that skin temperature is below 42 degrees Celsius.

The procedure is more simplistic than it may appear. Individuals continue to rely on ThermiRF because the results are rewarding. For more information on obtaining ThermiRF treatment, call our office and book your consultation.

Natural Remedies for Treating Acne

Life is constant. You make time for the moments you want to hold on to, such as time for work, time for laughter, and time for love. The one thing that never has a spot on your calendar, but never fails to show up, is acne. There is simply no time for that! Let’s face it: Acne is an inconvenience. Fortunately, you can conveniently get rid of it using natural remedies. Keep in mind that everyone’s skin is different and while these remedies may yield results for some, others may require further dermatological advice. What occurs on the outside of your skin is quite often a reflection of what’s going on on the inside. All individuals can benefit from adopting a healthy diet and lifestyle.

Cleansing with honey

Combine 1 tablespoon of melted coconut oil, 3 tablespoons of pure honey, 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar, 20 drops of melaleuca essential oil, and 2 capsules of live probiotics in a small bowl. Mix the ingredients together, pour into a small bottle, and store it in a warm place. Use this mixture to wash your face once daily. The formula kills acne-causing bacteria and unclogs impurities that are suffocating your pores.

Spot treatment using tea tree oil and coconut oil

Mix 4 to 8 drops of tea tree oil with 1 teaspoon of coconut oil and dab lightly onto problem areas. Ensure to use a carrier oil as well as tea tree oil, as tea tree oil alone might be too severe to apply directly to the skin.

Exfoliate

Pair 2 tablespoons of ground oatmeal, sea salt, or brown sugar with 1 to 2 tablespoons of one of these bases: coconut oil, kefir, or honey. Rub this mixture into your skin in a circular motion. Once the desired area is covered, remove the mixture with a damp cloth and rinse using lukewarm water. The hard ingredients work to remove dead skin and unclog pores while the bases fight bacteria and fungi.

Eat well; drink well

Finally, make healthy diet choices and remain hydrated. Your skin needs to breathe and its health thrives from the inside out. This is important because while you are doing all of the right things on the outside, neglecting internal care may have a significant impact on your overall results.

Treating Red Spots

When red spots on your skin can shake the confidence of the most secure individual. What can further frustrate those pesky little spots is the lack of sufficient treatment or the inability to get rid of them. At Rao Derm, we want to keep your anxiety to a minimum and your confidence, optimal. As a result, we have compiled a small list of simple solutions that can rid your skin of red spots.

Face Cleansing

Your face-cleansing procedure makes a significant contribution to the population and removal of red spots. In other words, if you are not actively engaging in a cleansing technique that promotes skin health, you are increases the chances of red spots and blemishes on your face. Additionally, if you practice effective cleansing methods, existing red spots are more likely to disappear. Dermatologists recommend using a make-up remover first, followed by a cleanser that is complimentary to your skin type and particularly tackles dirt.

Apply Spot Treatment

There are a myriad of spot treatments that are created with the intention to target red spots and alleviate blemishes on your skin. It is crucial to speak with your dermatologist to gain incite on certain ingredients and formulas that are conducive to your skin. We recommend Skinceuticals’ Blemish and Age Defense. This oil-free serum combines dioic acid with an optimal alpha- and beta-hydroxy acid formulation to reduce the formation of acne and clogged pores, while improving the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone. It is particularly beneficial for acne-prone and combination skin types. While we recommend this product to combat your red spots, your dermatologist can advise on the best treatment based on the existing nature of your skin.

Oil-free moisturizer

Your skin thrives on hydration. An oil-free moisturizer is perfect for defending against red spots. Skinceuticals phyto-corrective gel contains yaluronic acid paired with cucumber, thyme, mulberry and other botanical ingredient, which simultaneously minimizes discolouration, promotes, clear complexion, and sooths and calms the skin. This combination makes the product an ideal moisturizer for sensitive skin.

If you invest in these three procedural techniques on a daily basis, your red spots are destined for disappearance and your skin’s overall health will approve. Try something new; get rid of that old and wavering confidence and trade it for a spot-free skin you’ll always love and be proud of.

Life After Liposuction

Liposuction is a reliable procedure for individuals struggling with unwanted fat and problem areas that they have tirelessly been insecure about. In fact, it has easily become one of the most common cosmetic surgery procedures among women. Following surgery, the primary concern for patients’ is whether or not the fat will come back. This question is certainly warranted. When you’ve invested in a procedure you want to ensure that the results have longevity.

A research conducted at the University of Colorado tackled the same question focusing their research primarily on two main hypotheses: whether fat returned after it was removed and if it did, when it would materialize. Using a sample size of 32 non-obese healthy females, the researchers randomly assigned them to one of two groups, namely, women who underwent “small-volume liposuction” and a control group who didn’t have liposuction at all. The subjects were weighed and measured prior to surgery, 6 weeks post-op, 6 months post-op, and finally one year after surgery. The results revealed that after 6 weeks, body fat for liposuction patients decreased 2% and only 0.28% in the control group. At six and 12 months however, the fat reappeared in the abdominal area (but not in the thighs) and the two groups were closer together than at the six-week mark.

One of the doctors explains the finding by suggesting that the if you try and lose weight the body will try and defend that by gaining it back. Although the women who had surgery in the study were happy with the results despite fat returning, this study shows what doctors perhaps warn patients about prior to surgery, namely, that liposuction is not a weight loss procedure. If you want to see results and promote healthy living, it is necessary to exercise and make healthy diet choices so that your body and work in conjunction with surgery.

In conclusion, fat may return following liposuction, but if you want your body to defend against it, you must engage in an active lifestyle that combines daily exercise, a balanced and healthy diet, rest and consistency.

Intense Pulse Light Treatment

There are so many factors that play a significant role in the look, feel, and overall wellbeing of your skin. Anything from using the wrong product for your skin type to overexposure to the sun can result in skin disposition. One of the most challenging of these is damage that affects your skin’s pigmentation. Dermatologists can attest to the difficulty that persists when clients are battling pigmentation issues. One of the most reliable treatments for tackling same is Intense Pulse light treatment. Both women and men have consistently turned to IPL treatment rather than exhausting their resources on less effective methods. So, what is IPL and is it for you?

What is Intense Pulse Light Treatment?

Intense Pulse Light treatment is a photorejuvination treatment that focuses primarily on irregular pigmentation, sun damage, and discolouration or brown spots on the surface of the skin or face. Using rapid flashes of light, it goes beyond the surface of the skin and breaks down the irregular pigment into tiny particles, which rise to the skin’s surface, or is disposed of courtesy of the lymphatic system. IPL uses a series of wavelength of light and as a result, does not disrupt your skin in any negative way. Common to the procedure however, is the redness of the skin. Additionally, the treatment requires no downtime so, you can schedule treatments without detrimental scheduling conflicts.

Is IPL for you?

Intense Pulse Light treatment is ideal for any individual who recognizes unusual pigmentation or brown spots on the face and neck. If you do not want to commit to much more time-consuming and intensive procedures, IPL is for you. Some patients see results from the first treatment alone. However, dermatologists recommend three to five sessions for optimal results.

Before you engage in treatment, be sure to check with your doctor to ensure the treatment is conducive to your overall health and any pre-existing medical conditions.

Try something that works, is efficient, and effective. If you think IPL is for you, call our office today and book your consultation to get things started.

Tackling Those Pesky Little Cold Sores

Winter is coming. And by now, you’ve probably started to acquire objects like scarves, coats, and those cute brown boots you’ve been waiting to plant in the sea of fallen leaves on the sidewalk.These things are natural to your encounter with the changing seasons, but so are cold sores. They are simply unwelcomed accessories. Cold sores can ruin any outfit and become the centerpiece of an important conversation. At Rao Dermatology, we want to keep the attention on you not your sore. Consequently, this brief article will discuss the nature of cold sores and your best strategy for combating their existence.

What are Cold Sores?

Chi et. al, in a study 2015 study on interventions for the prevention of HSL, formally defines cold sores (Herpes simplex labialis) (HSL) as a common disease of the lips caused by the herpes simplex virus. “It presents as a painful vesicular eruption, forming unsightly crusts, which cause cosmetic disfigurement and psychosocial distress”. From a procedural aspect, the HS virus usually infects the body through a break in the surface of the skin around or inside the mouth. It spreads through the touching sharing, or interaction with a cold sore or any tool or material that has been used by someone who is infected (i.e. kissing or sharing utensils, etc.) Cold sores can also spread to other areas of the body. Signs of an existing cold sore may include sore throat, swollen glands, pain around the mouth/lips, and a fever. Doctors will usually make the official diagnosis.

Preventative methods

While there is no cure for cold sores, a lot of research has been invested in treatments and preventative methods. However, once the herpes simplex virus is in your body it remains there for the remainder of your life. Doctors often prescribe ointments, skin creams, and in some instances, oral medication. The 2015 study conducted by Chi. Et al, found that long-term use of antiviral drugs taken by mouth prevented cold sores. On the other hand, short-term use of either antiviral drugs or creams did not prevent cold sores. Further, the use of these antiviral drugs or creams, either long term or short term, appeared to cause side effects. While prevention and treatment is limited to the confines of your doctor’s recommendations, you can limit your chance of contracting the HS virus by actively refraining from sharing materials and utensils that transmit saliva. If you have a partner, talk about any previously contracted viruses to avoid contamination through kissing and don’t be afraid to speak with your doctor, together.

For more information on combating your cold sore, contact Rao Dermatology today and book your consultation.

Skin Reactivity and the perfect solution

Skin reactivity is a common factor among skin conditions. Stemming from different resources, it can shape how your skin reacts to certain stimulus and how it is completed unaffected by others. Understanding skin reactivity can be very useful to finding the right tool to defend against its downfalls.

Three primary causes of skin reactivity

Vascular: In this instance, reactivity develop when factors such external temperature (the weather) and internal factors like eating something spicy or consuming alcohol weakens the walls of the blood vessels. These changes can induce reactivity in the form of redness or flushed skin or a heating discomfort.

Environmental: The temperatures outdoors, especially when inconsistent and sudden can lead to burning sensations in the skin. Atmospheric pollution can also have the same effect.

Contact: the application of products with intolerable ingredients, fabrics, or even certain kinds of water can create a tightness or discolouration that results in an overall discomfort.

Understanding the aforementioned categories of skin reactivity is crucial to the implementation of proactive and preventive measures to minimize outcomes.

Skin reactivity solution – Skinceuticals Phyto Corrective Masque

Skinceuticals recognizes how agonizing skin reactivity can be. The Phyto Corrective Masque is created to alleviate the discomfort that persists from reactive skin. The masque consists of highly concentrated botanical extracts, a calming dipeptide, and hyaluronic acid to intensively soothe and replenish temporary skin reactivity. The ingredients aim to calm what is otherwise irritable skin and restores the skin to its natural radiance and smoothness.

One of the major benefits of this skinceuticals product is its multidimensional nature. The masque can be used daily for post workout and a hot bath. During travel, it also restores your skin following swimming (chlorine and salt water) adventures.

The Phyto Corrective Masque is effective on all skin types and materializes in visible results.

If you want to learn more about Skinceuticals products and how they can enhance your skin in a healthy way, visit, www.skinceuticals.com

Skin Conditions

Most consumers, and people in general, are aware of the categorical distinction of skin types. In fact, more and more dermatological products list the most beneficial (and sometimes least beneficial) skin types on the label in order to optimize the effects of the product. What consumers are less aware of however, are the categories of skin conditions. While some people may identify with these categories unknowingly, there is very little awareness that these distinctions exist. We’ve listed the five skin conditions to help you become more familiar with your category.

Aging: the characteristics of aging skin condition include enlarged pores, wrinkles, uneven skin tone and a lack of elasticity. Aging skin can derive from overexposure to the sun and a lack of your skin’s natural oils. Individuals with the aging skin condition should gravitate towards products that increase collagen production.

Acne: unsurprisingly, acne skin condition consists of a vast majority of black and whiteheads, cysts, and nodules. This skin condition can be a result of overly oily skin. In order to combat acne skin, look for products that reduce the oil in your face, especially exfoliants.

Dehydrated: the characteristics of dehydrated skin condition are just as its title suggests; it lacks sufficient levels of hydration and the skin does a half-assed job in water retention. This lack of moisture makes the skin more wrinkle-prone. This condition is treated by consistently adding moisture to the skin.

Sensitized: sensitized skin tends to be inflamed, red, and irritable. To combat sensitized skin, use products that are anti-inflammatory to soothe redness and inflammation.

Skin condition awareness coupled with skin types can lead to a remarkable pairing to obtain the best products for skin care and overall wellness.