HOW TO: Exfoliate (for glowy skin!)
Exfoliation is one of the secrets to smooth, soft, and healthy-looking skin from head to toe, but using the right products and treatments is key.
EXFOLIATION TYPES
There are two main methods for exfoliation — mechanical and chemical — and the methods you choose should be guided by your skin type.
Mechanical Exfoliation: Uses a tool, such as a brush, blade, sponge, or scrub to physically remove dead skin cells.
Chemical Exfoliation: Uses chemicals, such as alpha and beta hydroxy acids or retinols to dissolve or gently remove dead skin cells.
HOW TO SAFELY EXFOLIATE AT HOME
To prevent skin damage while exfoliating, our board-certified dermatologists recommend the following:
Consider the skin care products you already use.
Some medications and even over-the-counter products may cause your skin to be more sensitive or peel so you need to be aware of these prior to adding other exfoliation treatments. Examples of these include prescription tretinoin creams, and OTC products containing retinol, benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, lactic acid and glycolic acid.
Select an exfoliation method that suits your skin type.
- Dry, sensitive, skin may prefer just a washcloth and a mild chemical exfoliator, as mechanical exfoliation may be too irritating for this skin type.
- Products: Sente Bio Complete Serum, Sente Exfoliating Cleanser
- Procedures: Hydrafacial
- Oily, thicker skin may want to use stronger chemical treatments or mechanical exfoliation.
- Products: Rx Tretinoin, SkinCeuticals Glycolic 10 Renew Overnight
- Procedures: SilkPeel Dermalinfusion
- Darker skin tones need to be aware that too aggressive forms of exfoliation may result in dark spots on the skin called post inflammatory hyperpigmentation
Be gentle with your skin.
- If you use a scrub or chemical exfoliator, apply the product gently using small, circular motions. Do this for about 30 seconds, and then rinse off with lukewarm — not hot — water.
- If you use a brush or sponge, use short, light strokes.
- Never exfoliate if you have open cuts or wounds or if your skin is sunburned.
Follow with moisturizer.
- Exfoliating can be drying to the skin so it is very important to ALWAYS hydrate afterwards.
- Apply a moisturizer immediately after exfoliating to keep your skin healthy and hydrated.
- Dry skin product recommendations: SkinCeuticals Triple Lipid Retore
- Oily skin product recommendations: Alastin Ultra Light Moisturizer
Find the right schedule for you.
- How often you exfoliate depends on your skin type and exfoliation method. Generally, the more aggressive the exfoliation, the less often it needs to be done. Be careful not to over-exfoliate, as this could lead to skin that is red and irritated.
- Dry or sensitive skin types: 1-2 times per week
- Oily or acne prone skin: 3-4 times per week
If you aren’t sure what skin type you have, or if you have questions about exfoliating, see one of our board-certified dermatologists or licensed aestheticians. They will evaluate your skin and help you decide what method of exfoliation will be beneficial for you. Schedule an appointment.
OUR FAVORITE IN-OFFICE EXFOLIATING TREATMENT
SilkPeel Dermalifusion Facial
This is a skin-resurfacing treatment that combines exfoliation, extraction, and infusion of condition-specific serums to improve skin health, function, and glow!
Similar to microdermabrasion, SilkPeel Dermalinfusion exfoliates the upper layers of your skin using a diamond head. Not only does this eliminate dead skin cells, it also delivers a topical solution into the area of the skin where new and healthy skin cells are growing.
BENEFITS:
- Is safe for all skin types
- Has no downtime
- Cleans out pores
- Buffs away wrinkles, fine lines and acne scars while rehydrating dry skin
AESTHETICIAN CORNER
Advice from Our Skin Care Specialists - Licensed Aestheticians Katie Velasquez and Ashli La Madrid
SkinCeuticals Micro-Exfoliating Scrub
Smoothing exfoliating scrub with silica effectively cleanses pores and exfoliates to hydrate, soften, and improve skin texture.
We recommend Micro-Exfoliating Scrub as a compliment to most acne and anti-aging regimens. Using 2 to 3 times a week gives your skin a boost in exfoliation to decongest pores and rid your face of dull, dry dead skin. You get an instant glow, allow your skin to absorb product more efficiently, and increase the results from procedures.
SKIN TYPES: Dry, Normal, Oily, Combination
SKIN CONCERN: Dehydrated, Discoloration, Aging
FEATURES: Micro-Exfoliating Scrub features a powerful 2% concentration combining hydrated silica, glycerin, and aloe extract to purify pores and promote a healthy skin barrier. Gentle enough for daily use, this exfoliating scrub provides a mild and even exfoliation to improve texture while softening and hydrating the skin.
BENEFITS:
- Mechanically exfoliates skin and polishes away dead skin cells
- Delivers hydration to smooth and soften skin’s surface
- Paraben-, sulfate-, soap-, fragrance-, dye- and alcohol-free
- Suitable for dry, normal, oily, or combination skin
We Are Growing - Office Expansion Underway!
We are delighted to announce the next chapter in the Pure Dermatology Denver story!
We are expanding our office!
Due to all of your support, we have grown tremendously over the past 5 years, and as a result, we need more space. We are expanding our office into the adjacent suite within our building. Our footprint will expand by more than 1200 square feet with 4 new exam rooms to provide the best experience to our patients and community.
CHECK OUT OUR PROGRESS
AESTHETICIAN CORNER
Advice from Our Skin Care Specialists - Licensed Aestheticians Katie Velasquez and Ashli La Madrid
Did you know wearing sunglasses protects against crow’s feet? Keep those sunnies at hand! When you squint in the sun, crow’s feet wrinkles are more likely to develop. So always wear sunglasses with UV protection, especially in sunny Colorado.
Healthy Skin Is In
Must-have skincare ingredients for healthy skin.
Spring is here and it’s time to get your skin glowing. With so many skincare ingredients to choose from, how do you know which ones are best for optimizing your skin’s health? Our board-certified dermatologists and aestheticians have done the work for you and compiled some of their favorite hard-hitting ingredients.
1. Vitamin C: Legendary for a reason, it really works.
- Uneven skin tone, rough texture, fine lines, acne scars, general dullness — you can name just about any common complexion concern and Vitamin C will be a recommended treatment.
- Vitamin C is an antioxidant that aids in your skin's natural regeneration process and helps your body repair damaged skin cells.
- It is clinically proven to reduce oxidative damage from free radicals generated by UV rays, ozone and exhaust.
- Best applied in the morning underneath sunscreen to aid in protection from the sun and environment.
- Not all Vitamin C products are created equal. The concentration and topical penetration vary dramatically among different products.
PD Favorites: SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic and Phloretin CF
2. Hyaluronic Acid: The hydration-attracting ingredient.
- Hyaluronic acid (HA) occurs naturally in the skin, it binds to water molecules to plump your skin with hydration and help achieve a naturally dewy and glowing complexion.
- Hyaluronic acid is great for all skin types. In general, it is nonirritating and does not trigger acne, rosacea, or allergic skin reactions.
PD Favorites: ISDINCEUTICALS Hyaluaronic Concentrate and SkinCeuticals HA Intensifier
3. Retinols: Best anti-aging ingredient out there.
- These vitamin A derivatives help stimulate the skin’s natural turnover process and increase collagen production in turn improving the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and discoloration.
- Retinols also exfoliate your skin and prevent clogging of your pores giving your skin a fresher, glowing appearance.
- Retinols are powerful so although they have many benefits they can also cause dryness, irritation and peeling. Our team recommends starting slow by using a small amount, once or twice a week and gradually increasing as tolerated and applying a hydrating moisturizer or HA product on top.
PD Favorites: Alastin Retinol and Avene Retrinal
4. Heparan Sulfate Analog (HSA): Exclusive breakthrough repairing molecule.
- Heparan Sulfate Analog is Senté’s patented technology that supports the skin’s ability to repair from within.
- HSA Technology deeply hydrates and targets the underlying causes of inflammation, strengthening the skin's ability to repair itself.
- HSA reduces the appearance of red, dry, and uneven skin while also combatting fine lines and wrinkles.
- Fantastic anti-aging product for more sensitive red prone skin types.
PD Favorite: Senté Dermal Repair Cream and Senté Dermal Repair Ultra Nourish
What is a Board-Certified Dermatologist?
Pure Dermatology Denver is the proud home to three board-certified dermatologists — Drs. Ghiselli, Cera Hill, and Farahi. March hosts both the American Academy of Dermatology's Annual Meeting, as well as National Doctors' Day. In honor of the medical specialty of Dermatology, let's explore this expansive field of medicine and our talented physicians.
What is a dermatologist?
A dermatologist is a medical doctor who specializes in the diagnosis of skin, hair, and nail conditions.
What training does a dermatologist have?
When it comes to diagnosing and treating conditions that affect the skin, hair, and nails, no one has completed more training than a board-certified dermatologist. Before they can begin practicing, dermatologists receive more than a decade of training, including:
- Four years of college to earn a bachelor’s degree
- Four years of medical school to become a medical doctor
- A year-long internship in medicine
- Three years of residency in dermatology, working alongside experienced doctors and completing 12,000 to 16,000 hours of treating patients
- Some dermatologists will then pursue additional advanced training in a particular area. This is known as fellowship training.
How can I tell if a dermatologist is board certified?
When you see the letters FAAD after their name, you know a dermatologist is board certified. FAAD stands for Fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology.
Why partner with a board-certified dermatologist?
Everyone’s skin is unique. No one understands your skin better than a board-certified dermatologist. When you partner with this expert, you get the best care.
- A board-certified dermatologist knows how to accurately diagnose and properly treat a wide variety of skin conditions from deadly skin cancers to warts.
- Expertise in caring for conditions ranging from long-term diseases caused by problems with your immune system and allergic reactions to hair loss and infections caused by bacteria or viruses.
- Dermatologists understand the interaction between the skin and the rest of the body. What seems like a simple rash might be a sign of an underlying disease.
- When you’re under a dermatologist’s care for a skin condition, your dermatologist can monitor you for other medical conditions.
- Dermatologists also help patients who want help with cosmetic concerns like wrinkles, sagging skin and scarring caused by acne or surgery to remove a skin cancer.
MEET OUR BOARD-CERTIFIED DERMATOLOGISTS
Samantha Ghiselli, MD, FAAD
Board-Certified Dermatologist
Co-Founder of Pure Dermatology Denver
Dr. Ghiselli is a board-certified dermatologist who specializes in medical, cosmetic and surgical dermatology, including Mohs micrographic surgery. Dr. Ghiselli prides herself in caring for the whole patient. She is known to have excellent bedside manner and be very charismatic towards her patients. She enjoys giving back to her community by volunteering her time to educate and provide dermatological care. She loves her profession because of the ways she can improve the lives of others.
Carrie Cera Hill, MD, FAAD
Board-Certified Dermatologist
Co-Founder of Pure Dermatology Denver
Dr. Cera Hill is a board-certified dermatologist with extensive experience in medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology with personal interests in skin of color and pediatric skin. After working for 7 years at Procter & Gamble, she received her MD from The University of Colorado School of Medicine in 2006. During her dermatology residency, she spent time at Northwestern Children’s Memorial Hospital studying pediatric dermatology, and in Santiago, Chile training on the topic of Latino skin.
Dr. Jessica M. Farahi, MD, FAAD
Board-Certified Dermatologist
Dr. Jessica Mounessa Farahi is a board-certified dermatologist practicing medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology. With a background in nutritional sciences, she prides herself in providing a holistic approach to treating numerous skin conditions. Dr. Farahi eagerly accepts patients of all ages and has experience performing a variety of cosmetic and surgical procedures. She values getting to know her patients as a whole and treating them with an individualized, patient-centered approach.
National Doctors' Day
National Doctors’ Day in the United States is a holiday which is celebrated on March 30th each year. Let's honor our physicians for the work they do for their patients, the communities they work in, and for society as a whole. It is their hard work and devotion that keeps all of us healthy and this day thanks them for doing that for us and our loved ones.
Men's Skin 101
Tips to help men develop healthy skin care routines. Our board-certified dermatologists and licensed aestheticians recommend some great skin care products and treatments to help your skin look healthier, refreshed and younger.
See below as we explore:
- Daily Skin Care Routine
- Hair Loss Treatments
- Laser and Facial Treatments
- Botox and Dysport Treatments
DAILY SKIN CARE ROUTINE FOR MEN
1. Wash your face daily and after exercise.
- Regular bar soap often contains harsh ingredients that can be drying to the skin.
- Wash your face with a mild facial cleanser and lukewarm — not hot water.
- We recommend SkinCeuticals Simply Clean.
2. Moisturize daily.
- Denver is dry so it's time to start moisturizing!
- Moisturizer works by trapping water in your skin, which can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and make your skin look brighter and younger.
- Our favorites include EltaMD PM Therapy Facial Moisturizer and Alastin Ultra Light Moisturizer.
3. Wear sunscreen daily.
- Denver ranks as one of the sunniest cities in the nation and we all get lots of sun during our daily routines.
- Start using a moisturizer that contains SPF 30 or greater every day!
- Daily SPF helps prevent sun damage that can lead to wrinkles, age spots and skin cancer.
- Our favorite lightweight, non-greasy option that men will love is EltaMD UV Clear.
4. Incorporate anti-aging products.
- Introducing an over the counter or prescription strength Retinol or Tretinoin is a great start to a simple anti-aging skin regimen for men.
- It can help visibly diminish signs of aging for recharged, energized, younger-looking skin.
- Speak to your dermatologist or aesthetician to see what products are best for you.
- Our favorites include, Avene Retrinal, Alastin Renewal Retinol and prescription Altreno.
HAIR LOSS TREATMENTS
Schedule an appointment with Dr. Cera Hill, Dr. Ghiselli or Dr. Farahi to start prescription and over the counter medical treatments for hair loss and learn about procedures offered at Pure Dermatology.
Propecia
- FDA approved prescription medication for the treatment of male patter hair loss.
Minoxidil
- Low dose oral minoxidil is an off label prescription that has regained popularity recently and is an option for male pattern hair loss.
- An Old Medicine Grows New Hair for Pennies a Day, Doctors Say
Viviscal Professional
- Daily dietary supplement for hair loss available at Pure Dermatology.
Platelet- Rich Plasma (PRP) Hair Loss Treatment
- PRP scalp injections are an effective natural treatment of hair loss.
- How it works: Three step process when your blood is drawn, spun to retrieve the platelet-rich portion, then injected into the scalp.
- Results: Increased hair density in 70% of patients after three treatments over 12 weeks.
LASER & FACIAL TREATMENTS
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL)
IPL is a laser-like treatment that is an excellent option for men. The procedure can be completed over a lunch break in 30-60 minutes.
IPL is a great solution to treat skin discoloration such as:
- Red and brown spots
- Blood vessels on nose, chin and cheeks
SilkPeel Dermalifusion Facial
This is a skin-resurfacing treatment that combines exfoliation, extraction, and infusion of condition-specific serums to improve skin health, function, and glow!
SilkPeel Dermalinfusion is a hydrating facial that:
- Is safe for all skin types
- Has no downtime
- Cleans out pores
- Buffs away wrinkles, fine lines and acne scars while rehydrating dry skin
BOTOX & DYSPORT
Injectable treatment to instantly make you look restored and more youthful. Popular among women but great for men too.
- Soften your frown lines, forehead lines or crowsfeet in a subtle natural way.
- The goal is not to look frozen but to lessen the lines and prevent them from getting deeper.
- Easy treatment with minimal discomfort and no down time.
Don't forget, check your skin regularly. Non-healing spots or moles that itch, bleed, or change color are often early warning signs of skin cancer. Skin cancer is common in men over age 50 and we recommend skin checks every 1 to 2 years depending on your risks.
Schedule your skin check now with Dr. Carrie Cera Hill, Dr. Samantha Ghiselli or Dr. Jessica Farahi.
Winter Skin Check-In ❄️
It's time for a winter skin check-in. Cold temperatures can wreck havoc on your skin. If your normally well-behaved complexion has been showing signs of distress—like dullness, dryness, and irritation—it may be a sign that your winter skincare routine needs a refresh. Check out some tips and winter favorites from our board-certified dermatologists and licensed aestheticians to keep your skin healthy and hydrated all winter long.
TIPS FROM OUR BOARD-CERTIFIED DERMATOLOGISTS
Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize! — From Dr. Carrie Cera Hill
During the colder winter months, be sure to add an additional layer of moisturization. A thick, creamy moisturizer will protect the skin barrier more efficiently than a thinner one better suited for the warmer months.
- Try SkinCeuticals Hydrating B5 Gel layered under Senté Dermal Repair Ultra-Nourish or SkinCeuticals Triple Lipid.
Product Recommendation: SkinCeuticals Hydrating B5 Gel
My favorite layering facial emollient for under your cream is SkinCeuticals Hydrating B5 Gel! It is fantastic to place under an anti-aging face cream like Senté Dermal Repair Ultra-Nourish or SkinCeuticals Triple Lipid. Men and those with more oily skin or acne prone skin love it solo too!
Exfoliation is key (but frequency matters!) — From Dr. Jessica Farahi
It may be tempting to skip exfoliators when your skin is feeling sensitive from exposure to dry, cold air. But exfoliating ensures you are clearing away any dead skin cells that can flake off and cause dry skin. Plus, they help your moisturizer and skincare really soak in. The key is to use a more gentle formula than you would in the summer, and exfoliate less often (we recommend twice weekly).
- Try Senté Exfoliating Cleanser and Senté Bio Complete Serum (retinol), SkinCeuticals Glycolic 10, Avène Retinal, or prescription Tretinoin.
Product Recommendation: ISDIN Uradin Podos
I love ISDIN’s Uradin Podos hydrating gel oil to exfoliate my feet. My feet get really dry and cracked in the winter and they always feel and look so much better when they’re pampered with this urea product!
Sun protection, always! — From Dr. Samantha Ghiselli
We know you’ve heard it, but it’s worth repeating: your skin needs protection from the sun all year long. The majority of skin aging is caused from sun exposure, which makes sun protection daily crucial.
- Use sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher everyday!
- In addition to face, include ears, neck, chest, and hands when applying your daily SPF.
- Cover up when possible, keep a protective hat in your car for days when you spend more time outdoors.
Product Recommendation: Alastin HydraTint SPF 36
One product I am constantly reaching for is Alastin HydraTint. It is an all-mineral tinted sunscreen that hydrates and protects with a soft glow. Additionally, it contains antioxidants to protect against environmental damage. Everyone has unique needs when it comes to their perfect SPF, let us help you find products that you will love.
Customize your skincare regimen
Our board-certified dermatologists, Dr. Cera Hill, Dr. Ghiselli, and Dr. Farahi along with our licensed aestheticians, Katie Velasquez and Ashli La Madrid, are experts in recommending personalized skin care products and treatments to keep your skin healthy and looking its best.
- Winter months are notorious for drying out your skin and that’s why it’s essential to switch out your products for the different conditions.
- Consider laser treatments, injectables and rejuvenating aesthetic services.
- Schedule a cosmetic consult for a personalized regimen tailored to your unique needs.
TIPS FROM OUR LICENSED AESTHETICIANS
Try Intense Pulsed Light (IPL), you'll love it! — From Katie Velasquez
Glowing summer skin starts in the winter. Many of our patients are surprised to learn that winter is actually the best time for them to have IPL. If you’ve been eager to fade spots, even out skin tone, and rejuvenate skin, now is the time. Treatment areas include the face, neck, chest, arms and hands.
Product Recommendation: Isdinceutics Hyaluronic Concentrate
Hyaluronic Concentrate is a water-gel serum that treats your skin to deep hydration, providing both a plumping and smoothing effect with a satin finish. Formulated with a mix of hyaluronic acids, BioMarine extract, skin-firming peptides, and lentil extract, add this serum to your daily routine for soft, radiant skin.
It's Peel Season! — From Ashli La Madrid
Peel away layers of sun damaged skin and get glowing, bright, smooth skin in just a week.The Perfect Derma™ Peel
Product Recommendation: Senté Dermal Repair Ultra-Nourish
An award-winning, nourishing cream designed to repair and replenish dry skin while improving visible redness. Restore skin barrier function while delivering immediate and long lasting moisturization. The appearance of visible redness and fine lines and wrinkles is improved in as early as 2 weeks.
Make 2022 YOUR year and the year you finally achieve our skincare goals!
- Schedule a visit with Dr. Cera Hill or Dr. Samantha Ghiselli for a skin check OR
- Schedule a FREE cosmetic consult with licensed aesthetician, Katie Velasquez
- Click here to schedule online or call our office 303-333-7873
Pure Dermatology is Growing!
TeamDr. Jessica Mounessa Farahi is a dermatologist, certified by the American Board of Dermatology, practicing medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology. With a background in nutritional sciences, she prides herself in providing a holistic approach to treating numerous skin conditions.
Originally from New York, she completed her undergraduate studies in Biology and Nutritional Sciences from Cornell University, graduating Magna Cum Laude. As a research scholar, she conducted numerous studies on the medicinal properties of numerous plants in chronic diseases. This sparked her fascination in the relationship between diet and health. She went on to receive her M.D. at the State University of New York School of Medicine with honors. Her passion for research in the field of dermatology resulted in her publication of over 20 articles in various prestigious medical journals including the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology (JAAD) and the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) on topics ranging from natural ways to reduce skin cancer risk to treating hair loss. After an internship in Internal Medicine, she went on to complete her dermatology residency at the University of Colorado. Prior to joining Pure Dermatology, she served as a dermatologist for Kaiser Permanente, treating a diverse population of patients with a variety of skin conditions.
Dr. Farahi eagerly accepts patients of all ages and has experience performing a variety of cosmetic and surgical procedures. She values getting to know her patients as a whole and treating them with an individualized, patient-centered approach. In her free time, she enjoys being with her family and spending time outdoors, hiking and running in the great Rocky Mountains. She speaks conversational Farsi and Spanish.
Dr. Farahi will begin seeing patients on November 1st for general dermatology, cosmetic, and surgical appointments.
In addition, she will be offering a new unique visit type at Pure Dermatology; Beyond the Skin Consultations. These extended appointments will allow for individualized interaction with Dr. Farahi to explore your skin concerns. These visits may be covered by select insurance companies or can be private pay.
Beyond The Skin Consultations - A comprehensive evidence-based approach to treating skin conditions. This includes a diet and lifestyle assessment, diagnosis and work up recommendations, and a holistic treatment plan.
Select from one of the following skin conditions:
- Acne
- Sun-damaged skin
- Hair loss
In-office and telehealth visit options are available. Call our office at 303-333-7873 with questions and to schedule your appointment! Online self-schedule will also be available in the coming weeks.
Say Farewell to Acne ?
Acne is the most common skin condition in the United States. While acne usually begins in puberty or teen years, it can persist into adulthood as well. Dermatologists commonly treat teen and adult acne patients. Acne can regress or improve in adulthood, but may also worsen in some populations such as adult women and may be more severe in men. Approximately 15% of the US population has suffered from acne and, by some estimates, nearly 9 out of 10 adolescents are affected by this chronic skin condition.
Acne vulgaris is a skin condition that occurs when your hair follicles become plugged with oil and dead skin cells. It causes whiteheads, blackheads or pimples.
Acne skin lesions vary, and include:
- Whiteheads (closed plugged pores or comedones)
- Blackheads (open plugged pores or comedones)
- Small red, tender bumps (papules)
- Pimples (pustules), which are papules with pus at their tips
- Large, solid, painful lumps under the skin (nodules)
- Painful, pus-filled lumps under the skin (cystic lesions)
Following acne lesions, your skin can be left with discoloration (post inflammatory hyperpigmentation or erythema) or even permanent marks (acne scars) in some cases.
Four main factors cause acne:
- Excess oil (sebum) production
- Hair follicles clogged by oil and dead skin cells
- Bacteria
- Inflammation
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Acne typically appears on your face, forehead, chest, upper back and shoulders because these areas of skin have the most oil (sebaceous) glands. Hair follicles are connected to oil glands.
The follicle wall may bulge and produce a whitehead. Or the plug may be open to the surface and darken, causing a blackhead. A blackhead may look like dirt stuck in pores. But actually the pore is congested with bacteria and oil, which turns brown when it's exposed to the air.
Pimples are raised red spots with a white center that develop when blocked hair follicles become inflamed or infected with bacteria. Blockages and inflammation deep inside hair follicles produce cystlike lumps beneath the surface of your skin. Other pores in your skin, which are the openings of the sweat glands, aren't usually involved in acne.
Certain things may trigger or worsen acne:
- Hormonal changes. Androgens are hormones that increase in boys and girls during puberty and cause the sebaceous glands to enlarge and make more sebum. Hormone changes during midlife, particularly in women, and pregnancy, can lead to breakouts too.
- Certain medications. Examples include drugs containing corticosteroids, testosterone or lithium.
- Friction or pressure on your skin. This can be caused by items such as telephones, cellphones, helmets, tight collars and backpacks
- Diet & acne. Studies indicate that consuming certain foods — including chocolate and carbohydrate-rich foods, such as bread, bagels and chips — may worsen acne. Further study is needed to examine whether people with acne would benefit from following specific dietary restrictions. Low glycemic index diets, reducing inflammation may help (read more).
- Emotional health & acne. For many people who have acne, the skin disease affects more than their appearance. Acne can take a toll on one’s emotional health. Researchers have found in study after study that people with acne can also develop depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, poor self-image, and decreased quality of life. Treatment of acne may improve these as well (read more).
- Family history. Genetics plays a role in acne. If both of your parents had acne, you're likely to develop it too.
Myths:
- Stress. Stress doesn't cause acne, but if you have acne already, stress may make it worse
- Hygiene. Acne is not caused by dirty skin. Overwashing the skin may dry and irritate the skin, especially in dry climates like Colorado. We recommend washing your skin with either a gentle cleanser or acne cleanser if recommended by your dermatologist once to twice daily followed by a non-comedogenic moisturizer.
When To See Your Dermatologist
Acne may be managed at home with over-the-counter products, but some cases are more serious. If you don’t see a difference with careful skin care, changes in diet, and over-the-counter treatments within 6-12 weeks, you should make an appointment with our board certified dermatologists. Early treatment can help your confidence and prevent scarring.
Although acne is one of the most common skin disorders that dermatologists diagnose, it remains challenging to treat. Acne needs to be treated based on the subtype of acne–it’s not a one-size fits all type of pathology. Patients with hormonal acne often benefit from oral contraceptive pills, spironolactone, and over-the-counter and prescription topicals
Lasers and similar energy based therapies can be used safely to treat acne–photodynamic therapy has also been use in some of patients. Aesthetician performed facials with or without extractions and chemical peels are helpful in-office acne treatments.
Acne Treatments
Ready for results? Our team of board certified dermatologists and licensed medical aestheticians will create a plan to treat your acne concerns.
A teen facial can help get rid of acne and decrease acne breakouts on the face, chest, or back. Our aestheticians create effective plans to care for skin to promote continued results. Facials will properly treat the skin and remove clogged pores to lessen and help clear up acne lesions. Schedule an appointment with our licensed aestheticians, Katie or Ashli.Teen Facials with Extractions
Salicylic Acid Peel
Visibly reduce the appearance of mild to severe acne-prone skin while improving skin clarity, texture and tone. Light chemical peels are a great treatment for teens with acne and acne scarring. A solution is applied to the face that “peels” off the top layers of the skin. This helps even out the tone and texture of the skin, especially if acne scarring is present. It also makes it easier for acne medicines to penetrate and get into the pores where they have their effect.
Glytone Acne Treatment System
Glytone Acne Treatment System uses the best acne-fighting ingredients to heal and prevent blemishes. Formulated with salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, bakuchiol and more, this powerful system washes away excess oil and debris while gently exfoliating, unclogging pores and preventing breakouts.
Treat acne in 3 key blemish-fighting steps:
Cleanse: Acne Self-Foaming Cleanser
Hydrate: Acne Treatment Lotion:
Treat: Acne BPO Treatment Gel
Clinical Results: decreases severity of acne after 7 days of use.
Let's Explore Psoriasis
August is National Psoriasis Awareness Month
Types of Psoriasis
Plaque (plack) psoriasis - most common
Scalp psoriasis
Nail psoriasis
Guttate (gut-tate) psoriasis
Pustular psoriasis
Inverse psoriasis
Erythrodermic (eh-rith-row-der-mic) psoriasis
Psoriatic arthritis
Psoriasis Triggers
- Infection (such as strep throat)
- Skin injury (such as a sunburn or cut)
- Stress
- Cold weather
- Smoking
- Heavy alcohol consumption
- Medication use (beta-blockers, lithium, or antimalarial drugs)
1. Prescription and OTC creams and ointments
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- Rx topical steroids, vitamin D analogues, topical retinoids, and calcineurin inhibitors can calm down the inflammation.
- OTC products that contain salicylic acid, coal tar, zinc, selenium sulfide, and moisturizers can exfoliate and hydrate the skin.
2. Ultraviolet light
-
- Skin exposure to natural sunlight or artificial UV light causes the hyperactive immune cells in the the skin to die, which slows down the cell turnover and calms down inflammation.
- Limited UV exposure to avoid sunburn and increased risk of skin cancer.
3. Systemic medications
-
- Rx oral or injectable medications, including immunomodulating medications (such as Otezla, Skyrizi, Cosentyx, Stelara, and more), retinoids, methotrexate, and cyclosporine can eliminate the skin and joint disease of psoriasis.
If you feel like you might be experiencing psoriasis or would like to explore a more comprehensive treatment approach to your symptoms, schedule an appointment with our board-certified dermatologists, Dr. Cera Hill and Dr. Ghiselli.
EltaMD Moisture Rich Body Crème
One of our favorites for patients with psoriasis or eczema or for anyone seeking extra hydration in Denver’s dry climate. Non-greasy, luxurious, ceramide-enhanced formula with enzymes to promote a healthy skin barrier. LEARN MORE
ISDIN Uradin Podos Gel Oil
Get that Summer Skin Glow ☀️
- Summer skin tips
- Wallaroo UPF Hats
- Our favorite facial treatments for summer
SUMMER SKIN TIPS
- SPF, SPF, SPF: It's the most important, fundamental, don't-leave-home-without-it tip, wear sunscreen. We recommend a broad-spectrum sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher. Don't forget about hands, feet, ears, and lips. Come by our office and let us help you find the perfect sun protection for you.
- Invest in a good vitamin C serum: Vitamin C is great year-round, but all the more important in the summer. Vitamin C helps prevent hyperpigmentation, improves the appearance of fine lines, and can help with collagen production. Layer a few drops on your skin between cleansing and your moisturizer.
- Don't forget to exfoliate: While we often remind patients not to over-exfoliate, in the summertime, 'tis the season to slough away. That doesn't mean a daily dose of all your favorite acids, but try slowly increasing the amount of days you exfoliate per week. Need some extra TLC? Schedule a complexion-enhancing facial with one of our aestheticians.
- What about vitamin D: The myths about vitamin D can be confusing. Is vitamin D important for our health? Absolutely! Can you get enough vitamin D, even if you wear sunscreen every day? The answer is yes! But instead of getting a daily dose of Vitamin D from the sun or tanning beds, turn to foods rich in vitamin D and supplements rather than risk the harmful rays of the sun.
- Schedule your skin check: Keep your skin healthy and detect skin cancer early with an annual skin check. Discuss any skin concerns you may have with your board-certified dermatologist, schedule today.
Wallaroo UPF Hats
As a leader in the sun-protective hat industry, Wallaroo has developed a line of functional, fashionable designs that can go with you on all of your adventures. Wallaroo hats are tested and rated according to the UV radiation blocking capabilities of materials used in the construction of each hat.
Pure Dermatology carries a wide variety of Wallaroo UPF Hats, stop by our office to shop the current styles. You are sure to find the perfect hat for all your summer plans.
Our Favorite Summer Treatments: HydraFacial and SilkPeel Dermalinfusion
HydraFacial
CHEMICAL EXFOLIATION
CUSTOMIZED BOOSTERS
COSMETIC GOALS
CONTINUOUS GOALS
all in one treatment to address acne prone, mature, or dry skin
ADDITIONAL FOCUS
END RESULT
