SkinSchool™

Hands Off Your Skin

tori — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 22:53:33 +0000

Here at the Skin School blog, our main focus is your healthy skin. There are even a few solutions to improve the quality of your skin that don’t require a visit to our office. Would you believe the average person touches his or her face 16 times in one hour? From all the things we come in contact with daily, our hands certainly get their fair share of germs and bacteria.

You might even be touching your face while you read this blog post. Whether we notice it or not, this healthy skin no-no is something we all do. From rubbing your eyes, picking a blemish, or resting your face in your hands while sitting at a desk, as we touch the skin on our faces, bacteria is introduced in places we don’t want it.

There are two main reasons not to touch your face. First, it could cause you to get sick. If you have come into contact with something or someone infected with a cold or flu virus (such as a door knob or telephone) and then touch your face, your chance of getting sick increases by 50 percent.

The second important reason to avoid touching your skin is that it can cause acne. If you already have acne prone skin, touching it will increase your chances for breakouts. Our fingers secrete natural oil that mixes with dirt and bacteria on our skin and this leads to unwanted blemishes.

Here are a few simple tips to keep your hands off:

Be conscious of keeping your hands away from your face (it seems obvious, but not always easy to remember.
Wash your hands every few hours and always before eating.
Don’t pick pimples. It only pushes bacteria deeper into the skin and can cause unwanted scars.

Always clean your face before bed. A good skincare regimen will help to prevent a multitude of skin issues. If you aren’t sure how to go about doing this or haven’t had success in the past, a board certified dermatologist, such as a member of our team here at Knoxville Dermatology Group, can help you establish a skincare regimen that will meet your skin’s unique needs.

Are you suffering from breakouts or another skin condition? Our team of board certified physicians here at Knoxville Dermatology Group is here to help. Schedule an appointment today with one of our board certified physicians to get your skin the care it needs so it can reach its fullest, healthiest potential.

Contact Knoxville Dermatology Group at 865.690.9467.

Scar Solutions

tori — Sat, 18 Feb 2012 01:32:15 +0000

People visit dermatologists for a number of different reasons. Sometimes they make an appointment with a board certified dermatologist to treat a current issue or ongoing condition, but did you know another reason to seek professional medical attention is for scars?

Scars result from wounds that occur in the skin and tissue of our bodies. Once the wound heals, a scar or mark is left in its place. 95 percent or an estimated 10 million Americans suffer each year from scarring due to acne. Other causes of scars are burns, automobile or other accidents, genetic birth defects and severe rashes or allergic reactions. Scars range in all size and shapes, depending on the cause and location.

Through our bodies’ natural healing process, scars can fade in time. Often topical creams purchased over-the-counter or other home remedies such as Vitamin E oil are used. In the case that these methods don’t provide the desired results, it might be time to consult a board certified dermatologist, such as a member of our team here at Knoxville Dermatology Group.

Some options that are available to you are:

Surgery- Though it might sound intimidating, some scars require a bit more attention and this can take place through in-office procedures or more extensive reconstructive care.
Injections- Use of injectable solutions may diminish and fade scars over time. This method is usually used for skin with raised scar tissue.
Dermabrasion- Common with patients who have experienced acne scarring, this method can help smooth out your scar and leave your skin looking supple and fresh.
Laser Resurfacing- In this case, scar tissue is burned away while dermal collagen is stimulated, tightening and reducing the appearance of the scar. This method can be used both for scars due to acne and injuries.

Scars can make life difficult, especially when they are quite severe or covering the face. It is not uncommon for people with scars to experience emotional distress or lack self-confidence. The good thing is that there is hope for people with scars. If you have a scar you’d like to see less of, make an appointment today with a member of our team. We are here to help you through the process and determine which methods will work best for your unique skin.

Is your confidence affected because of an unwanted scar? Our team of board certified physicians here at Knoxville Dermatology Group is here to help. Schedule an appointment today with one of our board certified physicians to get your skin the care it needs so it can reach its fullest, healthiest potential.

Contact Knoxville Dermatology Group at 865.690.9467.

Facts About Hair Loss

tori — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 18:54:50 +0000

Hair loss, also known as alopecia, is associated with aging in both men and women, but can be a scary thing if you are experiencing it. While it is a common part of the aging process, alopecia can affect younger people as well.

Many factors play a role in hair loss, but some common ones are heightened stress levels, genetics, poor nutrition and sickness. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, each year 30 million women in the U.S. experience hereditary hair loss compared to 50 million men.

We lose hair due to natural shedding every day so this is nothing to be concerned about. However, when the shedding becomes more prevalent or if balding appears, it may be time to explore treatment options.

You might not automatically think about visiting a board certified dermatologist when dealing with hair loss problems, but your dermatologist is the correct choice. Since the scalp, where hair grows, is part of your skin, a dermatologist is knowledgeable about issues that can plague this part of your body. During a visit, your doctor might review your medical history, run blood tests or even perform a biopsy, just to help determine the root cause of the hair loss.

If you are experiencing serious hair loss or any other new skin issues, don’t hesitate to make an appointment with a dermatologist. Putting off treatment will not help things in the long run and you’ll put your mind at ease by getting an expert opinion. Sadly, many people are taken in by claims of over-the-counter “miracle” pills and creams, but in this case, a board certified dermatologist is the best way to ensure real results.

Are you suffering from alopecia or another skin condition? Our team of board certified physicians here at Knoxville Dermatology Group is here to help. Schedule an appointment today with one of our board certified physicians to get your skin the care it needs so it can reach its fullest, healthiest potential.

Contact Knoxville Dermatology Group at 865.690.9467.

What to Expect at the Dermatologist’s Office

tori — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 19:19:17 +0000

As our largest organ, our skin and its health should be a priority. One way of making sure you provide your skin with the care and attention it needs is forming a relationship with a board certified dermatologist. Some people are apprehensive about visiting a dermatologist, especially if it is for the first time. Here are a few things to expect when you first visit a dermatologist that will help to put your mind at ease.

Meeting and talking: When you first visit the dermatologist, he or she will make introductions and then take some time to ask you questions about your skin. These could be anything from how you care for it to any concerns you might have or instances of skin conditions in your family. It’s important that you try to answer the questions as completely and honestly as possible. Even if you feel something is insignificant, if it’s worrying you, bring it up.

Skin Exam: Next, you’ll have time in private to disrobe. Every doctor is different, but most will provide paper coverings for you if you’re feeling overexposed. When you’re ready, your doctor will do a full-on scan from head to toe. This is not the time to be shy, especially if you have a mole or other skin issue that needs to be examined. Don’t be embarrassed about showing your doctor and remember that he or she is a professional and wants you to feel comfortable.

After the Exam: If your doctor finds something suspicious, he or she might decide to perform a biopsy. Don’t jump to conclusions or start worrying if this happens. No matter what the results are, your doctor will help map out a treatment plan that is specially tailored for your needs. Our board certified dermatologists here at Knoxville Dermatology are committed to the health of your skin and will do everything to take great care of you.

Ask questions: This is your opportunity to ask any questions you might have. Whether you want advice on which products to use or have questions about your skin care regimen, get your questions answered to clarify anything you might be confused about.

Repeat: Make an appointment to have your skin examined each year so you can maintain your relationship with your dermatologist and keep all skin issues and potential issues in check. This is a crucial part of both skin health and overall wellness and you will be glad you gave your skin the care it deserves.

Would you like to see a dermatologist, but haven’t found the right one? Look no further than our team here at Knoxville Dermatology Group. Skin health should be taken seriously, and we’re here to help. Schedule an appointment today with one of our board certified physicians to get your skin the care it needs so it can reach its fullest, healthiest potential.

Contact Knoxville Dermatology Group at 865.690.9467.

Adult Acne

tori — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 20:06:20 +0000

It is estimated that nearly 30% of women and 20% of men ages 20 to 60 experience skin breakouts caused by adult acne. The condition is caused by sebum, a pore-clogging oily substance produced by the skin’s sebaceous glands. Adults who suffer from acne can blame hypersensitivity or overproduction of androgens (male hormones) as well as estrogen (female hormones).

Pregnancy, perimenopause, menopause as well as medications such as corticosteroids and cosmetics can also contribute to the development of acne in adults.

Treatment

Since most acne medications are created for teen skin, treatment can be difficult. Over-the-counter products may have some effectiveness, but more than likely, visiting a board certified dermatologist will be necessary to get a tailored skincare plan for your particular issue and experience lasting results.

Face Washing

There are steps you can take to experience healthier skin and they begin with how you clean your skin. Try to keep your face clean during the day. Wash your face twice daily with your cleanser (if your skin is dry, try using water the second time) and use only warm water (hot water is drying). Wash for just 1-2 minutes (more can irritate your skin). Use your hands instead of a rough washcloth. If you must wash with a cloth, try using one made for infants because it will be gentler.

Are you embarrassed to be an adult dealing with acne? Skin health should be taken seriously, but we’re here to help. Schedule an appointment today with one of our board certified physicians to get your skin the care it needs so it can reach its fullest, healthiest potential.

Contact Knoxville Dermatology Group at 865.690.9467.

All About Warts

tori — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 18:52:30 +0000

Warts are one of those skin conditions that have a great deal of mystery surrounding them, including misconceptions about how they are caused, how they spread and whether or not to seek treatment. In today’s Skin School blog, we are doing to clarify some things for you about warts and give you some helpful information if you or someone you love is suffering from them.

Warts are small, usually painless growths on the skin. Caused by a virus called human papillomavirus (HPV), most warts are generally harmless. All warts are spread from one part of your body to another and they can be spread from one person to another, but this isn’t common.

Typically, warts are raised, round (or oval) growths on the skin and they have a rough surface. Warts may be lighter or darker than the surrounding skin tone with smooth or flat surfaces.

There are different types of warts, including common warts which usually appear on hands and don’t tend to cause pain. Flat warts appear generally on the face and forehead, more commonly in children and sometimes teens, but less common in adults. Plantar warts are a painful variety and usually appear on the soles of feet. Warts affecting fingernails or toenails are called subungual and periungual and occur under or around the nail. A final type of wart and one that affects the genitals is called condyloma.

A board certified dermatologist, such as one of the members of our team here at Knoxville Dermatology can diagnose warts by examining your skin. Sometimes a biopsy is needed to confirm that the issue in question is in fact a wart and not another skin ailment, such as skin cancer.

One thing you can do if you suspect you have a wart is cover it with a bandage to prevent spreading it. Special foot cushions can help alleviate the pain caused by plantar warts, but in the case of warts or any other skin condition, you should never neglect to provide proper care to avoid further issues.

If you experience any of the following signs or symptoms, you should contact a physician:

signs of infection (red streaking, pus, discharge, or fever) or bleeding
pain associated with the wart.
anal or genital warts.
if you suffer from diabetes or a weakened immune system (for example, HIV) and have developed warts.
any change in the color or appearance of the wart.

Are you suffering from warts or other skin issues? Skin health should be taken seriously, but we’re here to help. Schedule an appointment today with one of our board certified physicians to get your skin the care it needs so it can reach its fullest, healthiest potential.

Contact Knoxville Dermatology Group at 865.690.9467.

Persistent Itching could be sign of Scabies

tori — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 16:59:59 +0000

Sarcoptes scabiei, commonly known as scabies, is an easily spread skin disease that is caused by a very small species of mite. While there is a negative stigma surrounding the condition, it affects people worldwide, with no regard to culture, gender or age. Spread by direct contact with infected people, scabies can affect whole families when one member is suffering with the disease.

Facilities such as nursing homes and child care centers are popular sites for outbreaks, since there is such a great deal of communal space and shared living quarters. However, scabies does not usually occur after sharing clothes or bedding, but rather through skin-to-skin contact.

The itchy rash that appears during a scabies outbreak is because the mites burrow into the skin and deposit their eggs. After 21 days, the eggs mature and this is what causes the allergic response. The scabies mite burrow appears similar to a pencil mark on the skin. Other symptoms of the condition include itching, notably at night and rashes that appear between the fingers.

If you feel you or someone in your family is suffering from scabies, contact a member of our team here at Knoxville Dermatology Group as soon as possible. The condition’s effects are especially detrimental in babies, showing up as pimples or small blisters on the body. A board certified dermatologist, such as a one of our physicians at Knoxville Dermatology Group can perform an examination of your skin and do necessary skin tests such as scrapings or biopsies.

Most cases of scabies are curable with the proper attention and medical care. Don’t let a possible case go untreated. Give us a call today.

Are you experiencing itching or some of the other signs of a potential scabies outbreak? Skin health should be taken seriously, but we’re here to help. Schedule an appointment today with one of our board certified physicians to get your skin the care it needs so it can reach its fullest, healthiest potential.

Contact Knoxville Dermatology Group at 865.690.9467.

Facts about Perioral Dermatitis

tori — Thu, 29 Dec 2011 15:34:20 +0000

It’s common for your face to experience a little redness or a blemish every now and then, but if you have any of the following symptoms, it might be time to see a dermatologist. Tiny red bumps or papules around the nose, chin or mouth, an uncomfortable burning sensation, flaking skin and general redness are all signs of perioral dermatitis or PD. While itching is not a common symptom, sometimes the dry skin can cause itch as well.

Affecting mostly young women, this condition’s direct causes are unknown, but it can be partly blamed on using skin creams that contain steroids. A board certified dermatologist can diagnose perioral dermatitis by examining your skin or possibly doing a bacterial test to rule out infection.

Since skin creams containing steroids can cause flare ups of the condition, these are not often used to treat it. Alternately, other topical medications or in severe cases, oral antibiotics might be used as forms of treatment. Perioral dermatitis can often require lengthy treatments, so if you are experiencing something you suspect might be PD, contact a member of our team here at Knoxville Dermatology Group as a soon as possible.

Are you experiencing redness or some of the other signs of perioral dermatitis? Skin health should be taken seriously, but we’re here to help. Schedule an appointment today with one of our board certified physicians to get your skin the care it needs so it can reach its fullest, healthiest potential.

Contact Knoxville Dermatology Group at 865.690.9467.

Put Your Best Foot Forward

tori — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 14:45:05 +0000

December is a busy month and you’re probably rushing around trying to check all sorts of things off your list. One minute you might be slushing through the rain in heavy boots and the next you might slip into a pair of dress shoes for a work meeting, then into some strappy heels and finally a pair of sneakers for an evening jog.

This time of year, your feet take a beating. You might not think about them much since they practically live in shoes and socks when it’s cold out, but caring for your feet is an important part of total body and skin health. The skin on our feet might seem rough and tough, but it’s actually very sensitive. Corns, calluses and bunions are just a few of the painful foot issues that can arise from improper care of your feet.

Dry skin on feet can lead to cracking and bleeding, and shoes that are too tight can create problems such as hammer toes, blisters and ingrown toenails. It’s important to give your feet time to rest each day and also to make sure they are clean and dry after bathing, especially between toes where fungus can often show up.

No matter what kinds of skin issues you are dealing with on your feet, our team of board certified dermatologists here at Knoxville Dermatology Group can help.

Are your feet showing signs or symptoms of the issues mentioned here? Whether during the holidays or anytime throughout the year, skin health should be taken seriously and our feet are an important part of that. Schedule an appointment today with one of our board certified physicians to get your skin the care it needs so it can reach its fullest, healthiest potential.

Contact Knoxville Dermatology Group at 865.690.9467.

Get Dazzling Skin for the Holidays

tori — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 19:00:19 +0000

The holidays are a wonderful time of being with loved ones, gift giving and enjoying festive annual traditions. Did you know they can also wreak havoc on your skin? All the shopping, cooking and celebrating also means you are probably getting too little sleep, eating on the run and feeling a bit more stress than usual. Also, the cooler temperatures and chilly winds play a negative role in your skin’s health.

It shows up with dark circles, puffy, swollen eyes and pimples and blemishes at the most inopportune times. These seasonal skin problems can be avoided by taking certain precautions and caring for your skin the right way.

Preventative care is very important this time of year. Here at Knoxville Dermatology Group, we are always happy to help you establish a specially tailored skincare regimen that meets the needs of your unique skin. If you haven’t seen a dermatologist in a while, this might be a great time to make an appointment.

Sometimes skin stress appears during the holiday months from a lack of moisture. This can be especially problematic if you live in a cold climate or are exposed to prolonged periods with indoor heating. Drinking alcohol can also play a role in drying out your skin.

We can help you select the right moisturizer that will help keep your skin from getting too dry. On the other side of the coin are breakouts. Stress induced by the holidays causes a surge in testosterone, which causes skin to break out. There are methods and products that can help with these types of issues as well.

Whatever your skin type and whatever issues you might be facing, give us a call. We’d love to help you on the road to better skin health, during the holidays and for the entire year.

Are you experiencing signs of holiday skin? Whether during the holidays or anytime throughout the year, skin health should be taken seriously. Schedule an appointment today with one of our board certified physicians to get your skin the care it needs so it can reach its fullest, healthiest potential.

Contact Knoxville Dermatology Group at 865.690.9467.