When a doctor performs a skin biopsy on you, the doctor removes a small part of your skin, analyzes it, and looks at it under the microscope. “This is a sample, a piece of the bigger skin, usually removed for diagnostic purposes,” shares Dr. Azeen Sadeghian, board certified dermatologist at Sanova Dermatology in Baton Rouge, LA. In this case, the Continue reading
With how important we know applying sun protection is, it shouldn’t be that difficult to find a product that meets all of our needs. Yet every time we walk down the skin care aisle, it can be overwhelming to navigate the multitude of different varieties. There are a few important factors to consider when purchasing a sunscreen. Cost – Will Continue reading
Mohs Surgery: What Is It? While number of treatment options exist for skin cancer, Mohs surgery has proved to be the most effective, providing both the highest cure rate, and the least amount of scarring. Originally developed by Frederic Mohs, M.D., Mohs surgery is a very particular, in-office technique of removing and examining cancerous tissue layer by layer in order Continue reading
Almost half of adult Americans will develop a form of non-melanoma skin cancer, either basal cell carcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma. Although spreading is not common, not treating these cancers could result in the harm of tissue in the surrounding area. Common areas for these two forms of non-melanoma skin cancer are the legs, arms, or even the face. Previously, Continue reading
Summertime is around the corner, and that means more time outside enjoying the beautiful Texas weather. Along with these fun activities comes the responsibility of knowing the sun’s effect on your skin and, potentially, your health. Choosing the right sunscreen for your skin type can be a tedious process, and the plethora of options available in the sunscreen aisle at Continue reading
Pay attention to your skin! Patients are encouraged to monitor their own skin with self-exams monthly and see a dermatologist at least once a year or sooner if a problem is suspected. For Self examinations, checking immediately after bathing is the best time. Check every area of your skin, because (although rare) melanoma can develop even in areas not exposed Continue reading
Melanoma arises from cells in the skin called melanocytes – these specialized cells produce melanin, the pigment that provides our skin its tone and our hair its color. It can arise in normal skin, or in a mole that changes. Melanoma can even arise in birthmarks or moles present from an early age. Rarely, melanomas can develop in our mouths Continue reading
Moles are considered dysplastic if they have abnormal features when they are examined under the microscope. The presence of a dysplastic mole may put an individual at increased risk for developing skin cancer. On the skin, dysplastic moles can have the following characteristics: The moles are larger than the moles and an average person. The moles are irregular in: Color Continue reading
Can a cream really treat skin cancer? How can you take away sun damage before it turns cancerous? Is there something better for warts? Imiquimod is a unique topical medication that can be used to treat a number of dermatologic conditions, including warts, sun damage and actinic keratosis, and even superficial skin cancers. The active ingredient in this cream works Continue reading
Actinic Keratosis are scaly, red, elevated spots that generally occur on the sun exposed areas of the body such as the face, arms and hands. They are NOT malignant, but they can develop into skin cancers if left untreated. Actinic Keratosis are caused by sun exposure in a person who tends to be more sensitive to the adverse effects of Continue reading
