Does your teen need to see a Dermatologist?
Adolescence is a time of significant physical changes and skin issues often arise.
Summer is the perfect time to schedule a visit with one of our board-certified dermatologists or aestheticians to help with teenage acne and establish proper skincare routines and habits to maintain healthy skin.
- Check out our tips for teenage skin care
- Learn about our clinical facials designed just for teen
- Learn about our new services of eyelash and eyebrow lifting and tinting
- Meet our new aesthetician, Grace Leeper
TIPS FOR TEENAGE SKIN CARE
Wash your face daily.
- Teenagers should be cleansing at least once a day in the shower, but twice daily, both morning and night is ideal.
- Gentle cleansers are a great place to start.
- Some of our favorites: EltaMD Foaming Cleanser, CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser, and Cetaphil DermaControl Oil Removing Foam Cleanser.
- For those dealing with acne, benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid cleansers can exfoliate the skin and prevent clogging of the pores.
Wear a daily moisturizer with sunscreen every morning.
- Teens get a lot of daily sun exposure at school and playing sports. It is important to start wearing daily sunscreen to protect their skin from sun damage.
- There are so many great products that are lightweight and do not feel like sunscreen.
- Some of our favorites: EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46, CeraVe Ultra Light Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30.
Moisturize daily.
- If you have oily or acne-prone skin, you might be inclined to skip moisturizer because you don't want to add more moisture and oil to your skin. However, moisturizing daily is one of the best things you can do for oily or acne-prone skin.
- Daily moisturizing helps prevent dryness and irritation, contributing to clearer skin.
- Some of our favorites: EltaMD Skin Recovery Light Moisturizer, CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizer.
Use non-comedogenic products.
- One of the best tips for teenage skin care is to use non-comedogenic products.
- Non-comedogenic skin care products are specifically formulated not to block pores and do not contribute to the pesky whiteheads or blackheads you're trying to prevent with your skincare routine.
Treat acne early on.
- Teenagers need to address acne proactively.
- Acne is common during puberty due to hormonal changes, however, it won't clear up on its own and can dramatically affect a teen's self-esteem and can also lead to permanent scarring.
- Consult with our team of dermatologists and aestheticians to determine which skin care products are right for your teen's acne.
If you have questions about how to keep your teen's skin healthy, see one of our board-certified dermatologists or licensed aestheticians to develop a game plan that will treat existing concerns and avoid future problems.
TIPS FOR TEENAGE SKIN CARE
Announcing our new services!
Teen Facial:
- We now offer facials just for teens.
- Facials for teens are beneficial for keeping skin clean and preventing future breakouts.
- Our expert aestheticians will provide a targeted 60-minute facial and customized treatment plan to address your teen's specific skin concerns.
- Extractions, calming mask, and LED light OR
- Extractions, salicylic acid, and LED light
Get on the summer schedule to look your best before school starts!
Lash Lift & Tinting:
- Lash lifting is a treatment that uses perming solutions to naturally lift and curl the lashes, making them appear longer and giving your eyes the appearance of being more open and bright.
- Lash tinting is a treatment that makes your natural lashes appear darker and fuller, giving them a similar look as wearing mascara, without having to wear any.
Brow Lamination & Tint:
- Brow lamination is a treatment that uses perming solutions to manipulate the brow hairs to fall into the desired design.
- Brow tinting uses temporary tint to enhance the natural color of the brows, allowing them to appear darker and fuller.
Healthy Skin = Healthier Future
Healthy skin for a healthier future.
May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month. Although skin cancer is one of the most preventable types of cancer, cases are on the rise globally. Discover how we are fighting for healthy skin with awareness and treatments.
See below as we explore:
- Types of Skin Cancer
- Importance of Yearly Skin Exams
- Sun Protection Favorites With Science-Backed Results
TYPES OF SKIN CANCER
Basal Cell Carcinoma
Basal cell carcinoma is the most common form of skin cancer.
- Presents as what appears to be a harmless non-healing pimple, scar, sore, or scaly patch.
- Occurs most commonly in highly sun-exposed areas such as the face, neck, chest, arms, hands, and balding scalp.
- Highly treatable with a very low risk of metastasis of <1%.
- Treatments include Mohs micrographic surgery, excisions, topical chemotherapy and immunotherapy creams, and radiation.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Squamous cell carcinoma is the second most common form of skin cancer.
- Presents as a non-healing, red, crusted, or scaling bump or sore.
- Occurs most commonly in the highly sun-exposed areas such as the face, neck, chest, arms, hands, and balding scalp.
- Risk of spreading ranges from 1-10%, if detected early they are easily treated with Mohs surgery, topical treatments, or radiation.
Melanoma
Melanoma is less common but the most serious form of skin cancer.
- Presents as a new or changing mole or brown spot.
- More common on sun-exposed skin but can occur anywhere including the bottom of your feet, eyes, scalp, and other unexposed skin.
- If detected early, melanoma has a 99% cure rate. However, it can become life-threatening by spreading to the lymph nodes and internal organs.
- ABCDEs of melanoma help us detect which brown spots on our skin are concerning.
The first Monday in May is designated as Melanoma Monday by the American Academy of Dermatology. We are joining the cause to raise awareness of skin cancer and encourage you to examine your skin for suspicious spots. It's also important to schedule your annual full-body skin exam. At Pure Dermatology, our expert dermatologists, Dr. Ghiselli, Dr. Cera Hill, and Dr. Farahi, can perform skin exams to screen and detect skin cancer. We offer many options for treatments for skin cancers, including Mohs Micrographic Surgery.
- Mohs surgery is a specialized surgical and microscopic procedure that progressively removes thin layers of cancer-containing skin until the margin is clear of cancer. It allows the removal of as little skin as possible while attaining the highest cure rate. This procedure is performed at Pure Dermatology by board-certified Mohs surgeon, Dr. Samantha Ghiselli.
Schedule A Full Body Skin Check + Screening
SUN PROTECTION FAVORITES WITH SCIENCE-BACKED RESULTS
Living in Colorado we are all exposed to the sun daily and are at risk for skin cancer. Check out our favorite products (all available at Pure Dermatology for 20% off during May) to help protect you from the sun and reduce your risk of skin cancer.
SPF — ISDIN Eryfotona Actinica SPF 50+
- Eryfotona Actinica is more than a sunscreen, it can reverse previous DNA damage from the sun.
- Its innovative formula contains patented DNA Repairsomes®, clinically proven to help repair existing sun damage.
Dietary Supplement — Heliocare
- Heliocare is a dietary supplement that contains a unique extract from a Fernleaf plant called Polypodium leucotomos, which helps your skin protect itself from the free radical DNA damage caused by the sun. In addition to Nicotinamide, a derivative of Vitamin B3, that has been clinically proven to reduce the incidence of precancerous lesions called actinic keratosis by up to 23%.
- We recommend taking it any time you have extended sun exposure, whether on a tropical vacation, golfing, hiking, or watching your child's or grandchild's soccer game.
- Additionally, it is recommended for any patient with a history of precancerous skin lesions or skin cancer.
Vitamin C — Alastin C-RADICAL Defense
- Formulated with a novel form of Vitamin C (Sodium Ascorbate), which helps to defend against free radical damage while supporting the skin's ability to conserve elastin.
- 15 proven antioxidants to help neutralize free radicals, and protect against UV damage and other environmental stressors such as blue light and pollution.
Redness? We Can Help!
April is National Rosacea Awareness Month at Pure Dermatology Denver
14 million Americans have rosacea, a chronic and common skin condition that is characterized by persistent facial redness and flushing along with bumps, pimples, and visible blood vessels. While there is no cure for rosacea, there are many proven treatment options that can relieve symptoms.
See below as we explore:
-
- Facts, types, and triggers of rosacea
- Treatments to minimize rosacea
- Featured rosacea skin care products
- Aesthetician Corner: CYNOSURE® Palomar Icon™ to treat rosacea
IMPORTANT FACTS ABOUT ROSACEA
- Rosacea is genetic: You can inherit a gene that predisposes you and your family members to the condition.
- Rosacea frequently affects people with lighter complexions: Rosacea can affect anybody, regardless of skin tone, however, it is more common in people with lighter complexions.
- Symptoms can worsen: Rosacea symptoms are likely to worsen over time if left untreated.
- Sun exposure: Excessive sun exposure can aggravate rosacea flare-ups.
- Rosacea can affect the eyes: Up to 50% of rosacea cases will have symptoms of redness and itching of the eyes.
Rosacea and acne can become confused
- Acne:
- Primarily characterized by pimples and clogged pores primarily in the T-zone, peripheral face, and jawline area.
- It usually begins at a younger age (between 15 and 25 years).
- Usually limited time with hormonal changes, but can occasionally be chronic.
- Rosacea:
- Primarily characterized by a background of redness with overlying pimples in the central face area of the cheeks and nose.
- Usually occurs after the age of 30.
- Usually chronic and long-lasting, but can be treated and controlled.
Rosacea has Four Subtypes
- Erythematotelangiectatic rosacea - Redness, flushing, and visible blood vessels.
- Papulopustular rosacea - Redness, swelling, and acne-like breakouts.
- Phymatous rosacea - Skin thickens and has a bumpy texture, usually on the nose.
- Ocular rosacea - Eyes are red and inflamed, they may feel dry and irritated.
Rosacea Triggers
- Dry climates
- Extreme hot or cold temperatures
- Excessive exposure to sunlight
- Drinking alcohol
- Eating spicy foods
- Certain ingredients in skin care products (alcohol, urea, fragrance, glycolic acid, sodium laurel sulfate, menthol, lactic acid, camphor, and retinols)
Dermatologist Recommended Treatments for Rosacea
- Prescription oral and topical medications:
- Oral prescription anti-inflammatory medications, such as prescription doxycycline, are effective in papulopustular rosacea and are the gold standard treatment for ocular rosacea.
- Topical prescription anti-inflammatory medications, such as metronidazole and ivermectin, and exfoliating ingredients such as azelaic acid.
- Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory products, including ingredients such as niacinamide.
- Sun protection, daily SPF.
- Surgical debunking of rhinophymatous changes of the nose.
- Laser treatments can provide a significant reduction in redness and diminishment of blood vessels.
PURE DERMATOLOGY PRODUCT PROMOTIONS
Two fantastic medical grade skin care products that are ideal for rosacea prone skin available at Pure Dermatology Denver.
Check out all of our skin care products.
Senté Dermal Repair Cream
What makes Senté’s medical-grade skincare unique is their patented technology, Heparan Sulfate Analog (HSA).
Dermal Repair Cream has been clinically proven to:
Reduce visible redness and sensitivity after only 4 weeks.
Deeply hydrate and renew skin.
Promote healthier, more even-looking skin.
Improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
SkinBetter Mystro Active Balance Serum
Mystro Active Balance Serum Improves the appearance of redness, skin texture, dullness, pore size and uneven pigmentation.
Mystro Active Balance Serum has been clinically proven to:
Improve visible skin quality in just 2 weeks.
Significant improvement in the appearance of redness, skin texture, dullness, pore size and uneven pigmentation after 8 weeks of twice-daily use.
Helps achieve glowing, healthier-looking skin.
98% of patients said they felt more confident in the appearance of their skin after 12 weeks.
AESTHETICIAN CORNER
CYNOSURE® Palomar Icon™ to treat Rosacea
Laser treatments for rosacea are quick, effective, and easily adjusted to fit your individual skincare needs.
- Reduce the appearance of redness and broken blood vessels.
- Reveal even, smooth skin.
How it works:
Specialized pulses target blood vessels without harming the surrounding skin. The light delivered to your skin causes them to slowly disappear through your body’s natural healing process.
Patients begin to see results after the first treatment, but there is usually a series of three treatments recommended for optimal results. Work with your provider to develop a plan that is right for you!
Schedule a FREE aesthetician consult to see if CYNOSURE® Palomar Icon™ would be a good treatment option to reach your skin care goals.
New Year, Same GREAT Care!
At the start of a new year, many of us make resolutions to take better care of ourselves. If your goal is to improve your skin, we are here to help!
Let's start 2024 the right way, it's important to prioritize your health and well-being. Our team of board-certified dermatologists offers comprehensive skin checks to screen for skin cancers and ensure your skin is healthy and protected. Our goal is to provide top-notch patient care and detect and treat any potential skin issues.
Schedule your skin check today to start the new year with peace of mind and healthy skin.
Are You Ready For Your Appointment?
With the start of the new year, there may be changes to your insurance plan or cards.
- Please bring to all appointments: a photo ID, an insurance card(s), and a valid form of payment, even if you are an established patient.
- If your insurance requires a referral, please request one from your primary care doctor prior to your visit.
This will ensure that we have the most current information on file and can provide you with the best possible care. Thank you for your cooperation and we look forward to seeing you soon. Questions? Give our office a call (303-333-7873).
Aesthetician Corner
New Treatment Alert — PRX Derm Perfexion
The PRX Derm Perfexion treatment helps improve the hydration, structure, texture, and pigmentation of your skin. You will see immediate results with no needles, no peeling, no frosting, and no photosensitivity. It is truly a zero-down-time innovation in aesthetic medicine.
PRX Derm Perfexion contains a proprietary blend of proven ingredients that work together to improve the quality and texture of the skin. Its formula contains 33% trichloroacetic acid (TCA), hydrogen peroxide, and kojic acid. When applied to the skin, PRX penetrates deeply to the dermis level stimulating collagen, while leaving the epidermis intact. The patented formula, application, and treatment protocol give your complexion a healthy glow without the risks or side effects of traditional peels.
PRX Derm Perfexion Highlights:
-
- Great for all skin types and ages
- Improve skin laxity, pigmentation, wrinkles, scarring, and stretch marks
- No needles
- No peeling
- No downtime (great before vacation or events)
- Immediate and long-lasting results
- 15 to 30 minute procedure, performed one time per week for four weeks (four sessions per package)
Staff Favorites!
Come see us at Pure Dermatology! Now is the perfect time to discover the best skin care products and procedures to get your skin looking and feeling its best. Learn more about the latest advancements in skin care and receive personalized recommendations from our knowledgeable staff. Whether you're looking to rejuvenate, brighten, or simply maintain your skin's health, we are here to support you.
Check our our staff favorites! Our team has curated a selection of their must-haves that are available for you to try and purchase in our office.
Dr. Cera Hill's Favorite Products:
"My nightly power-duo is from Senté. After prepping my skin, I apply Senté's Bio Complete Serum. It is a gentle vitamin A serum with slow-release retinoids for smoother, younger-looking skin with minimal irritation. Finding a retinol or retinoid product can be difficult if you have sensitive skin but they are so important to include in your routine! I also love their flagship anti-aging topical, Dermal Repair Cream, it renews skin while deeply hydrating and plumping."
Dr. Cera Hill's Favorite Treatment:
"Have you heard of Sculptra? It is an amazing option for so many of my patients. Sculptra stimulates collagen production, which helps the skin naturally renew itself. Results develop gradually, look completely natural, and last much longer than most other injectables. Swing by our Cosmetic Open House to learn more about one of our favorite treatments!"
October is Eczema Awareness Month
- Eczema is a chronic inflammatory condition of the skin that causes redness, itching, scaling, and dryness.
- It can be a lifelong condition starting in childhood or develop later in life and can range from mild to severe.
- It is more common in Colorado’s dry climate.
- If you are suffering from eczema, take charge of your skin's health by learning more about this condition and the available treatment options at Pure Dermatology Denver.
TYPES OF ECZEMA
- Atopic dermatitis (the most common type)
- Hereditary, runs in families and often starts in childhood but can develop later in life.
- Symptoms include dry, scaly, itchy patches on the skin, usually in areas like the inside of elbows, backs of knees, wrists, ankles, face, and neck.
- Contact dermatitis (irritant and allergic)
- It occurs when the skin reacts to irritants or allergens it is exposed to.
- Symptoms include a localized red, itchy rash.
- Common triggers include cosmetic products, certain metals, fragrances, and plants such as poison ivy, etc.
- Dyshidrotic eczema
- Hereditary, occurs at any age.
- Causes tiny blisters and scaling on hands, feet, and fingers that tend to come and go.
- Asteatotic eczema
- Due to excessively dry skin.
- Patches of red scaly and sometimes itchy skin scattered on the body, arms, and legs.
SYMPTOMS OF ECZEMA
- Itching: Can be mild or severe, and may worsen at night. The more you scratch, the more it itches, and can lead to skin damage and infection.
- Redness: Areas affected by eczema often appear pink or red and inflamed.
- Dryness: The skin tends to be very dry, cracked, and scaly. Lack of moisture is a key problem in eczema.
- Flaking/scaling: Flaking and peeling of the outer skin layers is common, especially after scratching.
- Lichenification: Thickening of the skin, usually as a result of chronic rubbing or scratching.
- Cracked skin: The dryness associated with eczema can cause the skin to crack open painfully. Common on fingertips, hands, and feet.
- Skin discoloration: Affected areas may turn lighter or darker than their normal skin tone.
ECZEMA TREATMENTS
- Rx topical corticosteroids creams
- First-line treatment anti-inflammatory creams and ointments that reduce inflammation and itch.
- They work quickly and are great for intermittent short-term treatment.
- Rx topical non-steroidal creams
- Great new options available that are safe and effective.
- Perfect for maintenance of eczema to avoid long-term effects of topical steroids.
- Moisturizers
- Daily moisturization with a hydrating cream (not lotion) is key to the treatment and prevention of the recurrence of eczema, especially in dry Colorado weather.
- Favorites: Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream, CeraVe Moisturizing Cream, Eucerin Eczema Relief Cream.
- Systemic medications
- For severe cases and cases that are difficult to control with topical treatments.
- Oral and injectable medication options that can be life-changing for people with chronic eczema.
Our team of board-certified dermatologists and aestheticians will educate you on proper prescription and over the counter skin care and how to identify and avoid triggers. If you have questions about what products or treatments are right for you, schedule an appointment with our team.
PRODUCT RECOMMENDATIONS
EltaMD Moisture Rich Body Crème
- Colorado dry weather makes it hard to avoid dry skin. You will absolutely love the feel and effects of this cream!
EltaMD So Silky Hand Crème
- The perfect product to carry around in your purse or keep on your desk or in your car to use multiple times per day. It is moisturizing but not greasy or sticky.
Stop by Pure Dermatology to test or purchase either of these great products!
AESTHETICIAN CORNER
Treatment Spotlight - IPL (Intense Pulsed Light)
It may be helpful for managing atopic dermatitis and other types of eczema characterized by skin inflammation, especially when standard topical steroids have not been fully effective.
IPL emits wavelengths of light that target hemoglobin in dilated blood vessels associated with inflammation. This helps reduce redness, swelling, and irritation.
Treatment involves multiple sessions spaced several weeks apart. A handheld wand is used to deliver pulses of light to affected areas of skin for just seconds at a time. Sessions last 15-30 minutes, depending on the area size.
IPL Benefits:
- Non-invasive
- Non-ablative
- Reduces inflammation
- Kills bacteria
- Smoothes skin surface
- Promotes collagen production
- Minimal downtime
Schedule a FREE aesthetician consult to see if IPL would be a good treatment option to reach your skin care goals.
HOW TO: Prevent Premature Skin Aging
Are you worried about premature skin aging? Don't panic! With a few simple steps, you can keep your skin looking youthful and healthy.
7 WAYS TO REDUCE PREMATURE AGING
Protect your skin from the sun every day.
- Wearing SPF 30 or higher on your face, neck and chest on a daily basis is the best thing you can do to prevent aging of your skin and keep it looking young. Whether spending a day in the sun or simply running errands, sun protection is essential.
- You can also protect your skin by seeking shade and covering up with UPF clothing — such as a lightweight and long-sleeved shirt, pants, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses.
Consider using a retinol or Rx Tretinoin cream.
- Should you be using a retinol or retinoid? Yes, yes and yes! Aside from SPF, retinoids are the #1 product for promoting long-term skin health across all skin types.
- Retinoids are vitamin A derivatives that increase cellular turnover, which causes our skin to regenerate more quickly, thus making your skin look more youthful, vibrant, and refreshed.
- The umbrella term “retinoid” is used for all vitamin A derivatives (ex: OTC retinol and retinaL, and prescription strength Tretinoin). What differentiates them is their strength, or how many conversions they must go through to become active and effective on the skin.
- The only negative is that these products can be drying and irritating so you need to pick the right product for your skin type. See our Aesthetician Corner below for some tips or schedule a free aesthetician consult to find the right product for you.
Vitamin C, your new bff.
- An anti-aging ingredient everyone should be using every morning! Vitamin C's strength is prevention and protection, it is essential for healthy skin.
- This antioxidant fights free radical damage and prevents oxidative damage to the skin cells. Free radicals get produced in our skin daily from UV exposure, environmental toxins/air pollution and household chemicals. Damage caused by free radicals can affect our skin DNA in addition to breaking down our skin's collagen, which can lead to skin cancers, fine lines and wrinkles, dark spots, and loose, saggy skin. Using a vitamin C neutralizes the free radicals, preventing this type of damage.
- Vitamin C brightens the skin and improves skin texture. It fades hyperpigmentation (sun spots, melasma, and post-acne marks) by inhibiting melanin production and decreases inflammation creating a more even complexion.
Cleanse and moisturize your skin daily.
- Gentle washing helps to remove pollution, makeup, and other substances without irritation. We recommend washing your face twice daily and after sweating.
- Applying a moisturizer immediately after cleansing traps moisture in the skin and gives it a more glowing plump appearance.
Apply self-tanner rather than tanning.
- Every time you get a tan, you age your skin. This holds true if you get a tan from the sun or a tanning bed.
- All tanning methods emit harmful UV rays that in addition to causing skin cancers, breakdown collagen and elastin in the deeper layers of the skin which can cause skin to thin and become wrinkled and crepy over time.
Maintain a healthy lifestyle.
- Eating plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables that contain antioxidants may help prevent damage that leads to premature skin aging.
- Exercising daily can improve circulation and boost the immune system which may give the skin a more youthful appearance.
- Avoid smoking, and drink alcohol in moderation, as these are damaging to skin health.
Stay hydrated by drinking water throughout the day.
- Water plumps skin cells and enhances elasticity, it is crucial for keeping skin looking youthful. Dehydrated skin can look dry, wrinkled and dull.
- Proper water intake helps carry nutrients to skin cells and enhances the effects of topically applied products.
If you have questions about what products or treatments are right for you, see one of our board-certified dermatologists or licensed aestheticians. They will evaluate your skin and develop a regimen curated just for you.
NEW PRODUCT ALERT!
ALASTIN Skincare®️’s C-RADICAL Defense Antioxidant Serum is powered by a proprietary, encapsulated Vitamin C (Sodium Ascorbate). This clinically-proven formula provides comprehensive environmental protection and supports the skin’s ability to conserve elastin for skin that looks smoother and more radiant (purchase now).
In a Clinical Study, C-RADICAL showed the following in as early as 8 weeks:
- 71% reduction in the appearance of uneven skin texture
- 69% reduction in the appearance of redness
- 50% reduction in the appearance of fine lines
HELPS TO:
- Protect skin from environmental stressors such as free radicals & UV damage
- Stimulate collagen and conserve elastin
- Improve the appearance of skin tone, texture, firmness, and luminosity
- Reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, redness, and hyperpigmentation
AESTHETICIAN CORNER
What are the benefits of retinoids?
- Reduces the appearance of fine lines + wrinkles by increasing collagen production
- Improves skin tone + texture for smoother, firmer looking skin
- Aids in fading sun spots and smoothing out rough patches on the skin
- Increases cellular turnover, which can minimize breakouts
- Stimulates production of new blood vessels on the skin, which improves the color of the skin
Do I need to use a retinoid?
Retinoids help keep our skin looking younger and healthier. We recommend that everyone over the age of 25 should use one. Plus, if you struggle with acne at any age, retinoids are one of our most recommended treatments!
To get the most of any retinoid, frequent use is key! The best retinoid is the one you will use consistently, which would ideally be 5-7 nights per week. Retinoids are the most highly researched “anti-aging" topical in the market (with over 70+ years of data) showing that the 5-7 nights range will have the most impact on your skin.
Schedule a FREE aesthetician consult to have us help you select the best retinoid for your skin type that you can tolerate and use regularly.
Skin Tips During Pregnancy
Pregnancy can affect skin in many different ways and can cause some new conditions to appear and others to flare. Additionally, not all prescriptions, products and procedures are safe to use during pregnancy, but many are and our team is here to help.
MELASMA - “The Mask of Pregnancy”
The hormones during pregnancy cause increased melanin production that causes natural darkening of certain areas of the skin, but in some women it can also cause unwanted patches of hyperpigmentation mostly on the face.
- Treatments:
- Ingredients to Avoid: Hydroquinone, Tretinoin, and Retinols
- Pregnancy Safe Ingredients: Azelaic acid, Kojic Acid, Vitamin C, Transexamic Acid, and Niacinamide
- Favorite Products: SkinCeuticals Discoloraton Defense, Alastin A-Luminate, and Isdinceutics Melaclear Advanced
- Pregnancy Safe Procedures: Microneedling and Glycolic Acid Peels
ACNE
The hormones during pregnancy in some women can cause increased skin congestion and acne flares especially on the lower face.
- Treatments:
- Ingredients to Avoid: Tretinoin and Retinols, Salicyclic acid, and Benzoyl Peroxide
- Pregnancy Safe Ingredients:
- Rx: Clindamycin lotion, Azelaic acid creams, and Sulfur based products
- OTC: Glycolic acid, Bakuchiol, and Azelaic Acid
- Pregnancy Safe Procedures: SilkPeel Dermalinfusion, HydraFacial, and Glycolic Acid Peels
ECZEMA
Eczema can flare during pregnancy so it is important to use extra moisturization during pregnancy.
- Treatments:
- Favorite Products: Eucerin Eczema Relief Cream, Cetaphil Cream, CeraVe Cream, and Vanicream
SUN PROTECTION
We recommend mineral based rather than chemical sunscreens during pregnancy.
- Favorite Products: EltaMD Elements, Alastin Hydratint, and ISDIN Tinted Ageless SPF 50
OUR PREGNANCY-SAFE DAILY SKIN CARE ROUTINES
DR. JESSICA FARAHI - BOARD CERTIFIED DERMATOLOGIST
AM
- Gentle cleanser - EltaMD Enzyme Foaming Facial Cleanser, SkinCeuticals Gentle Cleanser, or Vanicream Gentle Cleanser (three nice options!)
- Vitamin C - SkinCeuticals CF Phloretin (it is great for anti-aging and discoloration)
- Moisturizer - Alastin Reform & Repair Complex or Senté Dermal Repair Cream (whether you prefer a cream or serum, moisturization is key!)
- Tinted sunscreen - ISDIN Tinted Ageless SPF 50 (it is a must-have at our office!)
PM
At night, I repeat my AM routine but remove Vitamin C and sunscreen. Once per week I exfoliate, I love the SkinCeuticals Micro Exfoliating Scrub.
TREATMENTS
- HydraFacials are a favorite of mine, they are soothing yet invigorating, safe in pregnancy, and customizable for your skin type.
KATIE VELASQUEZ, PMA - LICENSED AESTHETICIAN
AM
- Gentle cleanser - Senté Soothing Cleanser
- Vitamin C - SkinCeuticals CF Phloretin mixed with ISDIN Hyaluronic Concentrate (great combo!)
- Eye cream - Senté Eye Cream
- Moisturizer - Alastin Ultra Light Moisturizer
- Tinted sunscreen - ISDIN Tinted Ageless SPF 50 (perfect coverage with high sun protection)
PM
- Cleanser - EltaMD Enzyme Foaming Face Wash
- Exfoliation - SkinCeuticals Micro Exfoliating Scrub (3 times per week)
- Anti-Aging - Alastin Restorative Complex
- Eye cream - Senté Illuminé Eye Cream (diminishes the appearance of dark circles)
- Moisturizer - Senté Ultra Nourish
TREATMENTS
- HydraFacial or SilkPeel Dermalinfusion are great for hydration and to try keep acne under control.
- Microneedling, SkinPen is pregnancy safe and can help with fine lines and pigmentation.
HYDRAFACIAL
HydraFacial is a comprehensive treatment option for refreshing and rejuvenating the skin, boosting the skin’s health, and improving the complexion. With slight modifications, like omitting salicylic acid, you can enjoy HydraFacials throughout pregnancy and postpartum.
Highlights:
- Clarify blemishes
- Even out skin tone
- Clear away debris from pores
- Can help calm acne during pregnancy
- Great to keep the skin healthy and hydrated giving the skin a dewy and glowing appearance during pregnancy
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.