When your dermatologist performs a biopsy, the sample travels to a lab, where it’s examined under a microscope by a trained expert. In many cases, a dermatopathologist in routine practice or a general pathologist can review the sample and deliver a clear diagnosis. However, some skin conditions are tricky enough that they call for a…
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What Happens During Laser Hair Removal?
If you’re tired of the endless cycle of shaving, waxing, and plucking, you’ve probably looked into laser hair removal as a longer-lasting solution. Before committing, it can be helpful to understand what to expect during each stage of laser hair removal, from your first consultation to your final results. Keep reading to walk through the…
7 Times You Should Get a Mole Checked Even If It Looks Normal
Keep reading to learn about seven situations where a professional mole check is worth scheduling, even if the mole in question looks completely unremarkable.
5 Reasons Your Eczema Treatment Isn’t Working and What to Try Instead
It can be extremely frustrating when you diligently apply your eczema cream every day and still deal with itchy, inflamed patches. There are usually a handful of common reasons eczema treatment stalls out. Keep reading to learn five possible culprits behind your stubborn eczema, along with what to try instead.
Can You Speed Up Healing After Mohs?
Jennifer Strunck, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon at Golden State Dermatology, explains why consistent wound care matters so much.
“Patients are often surprised to learn that keeping a wound slightly moist actually helps it heal faster and with a better cosmetic outcome than letting it air out and scab over. Scabs can actually slow down the migration of new skin cells across the wound bed. We give very specific instructions for a reason, and following them closely in those first one to two weeks can make a noticeable difference in the final result.”
Katie Given, MD, PhD, a board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon at Golden State Dermatology, cautions against reaching for unproven remedies.
“Patients often ask about home remedies they’ve seen online, like vitamin E oil or various essential oils, but the evidence behind many of these is thin at best. Some can even irritate healing skin or trigger an allergic reaction. I always recommend sticking to what your provider has specifically approved rather than experimenting on your own during this sensitive healing window.”
Is Castor Oil Good For Your Skin?
Castor oil has experienced a major comeback in recent years, popping up across social media feeds, beauty blogs, and DIY skincare routines as a low-cost, “all natural” solution for everything from acne to anti-aging. With so much buzz around this old-school ingredient, many patients are wondering whether the hype actually holds up under scrutiny. Keep…
What Is the Difference Between a Dermatopathologist and a Regular Pathologist
A skin biopsy may feel like the main event, but the real diagnostic work is just beginning. Once your sample leaves the procedure room, it heads to a lab where someone examines it under a microscope to determine exactly what is going on. That someone is a pathologist, but not all pathologists are the same…
What you Need to Know about Botox Injections
Botox injections smooth out lines and wrinkles in your face by relaxing the muscles. Botox is actually a brand name for the botulinum toxin type A, which is produced from the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. There are three other brands available alongside Botox, but our local dermatologists only use Botox due to the fact that it’s the…
Which Sunscreens Contain Benzene?
At the end of May 2021, Valisure released a report that they found benzene, a known carcinogen that can cause leukemia, in a number of sunscreens and after-sun care products from major brands. Valisure is an independent lab based in Connecticut that does consumer watchdog testing for many medications. The Valisure reports of which sunscreens…
How to Prevent Mascne
With mask-wearing being the new normal, mascne is on the rise and a common problem many people face today. Although wearing a face mask is essential to stay healthy, it can be challenging to keep your skin clear. At Summit Dermatology, we want to share our tips on treating mascne and how to keep your…
