Luminous Dermatology

Contact Us Request Appointment

Vein Treatments

by

About Vein Treatments

What are they?

We understand that prominent veins on your face, hands, or legs can affect you, both physically and psychologically. That’s why we offer various vein treatment options to eliminate unwanted veins and rejuvenate your appearance with clearer, healthier-looking skin. Varicose veins and spider veins are unsightly veins that develop due to trauma, heredity, overexposure to the sun, obesity, changes in hormone activity, problems with circulation, and more. On the legs, they can be unsightly and painful, while on the face they can cause you to be self-conscious about your appearance. Vein treatment involves therapies that eliminate veins by destroying them and then flushing them from your body.

What to expect

Our vein specialists utilize the following vein treatment options: sclerotherapy – the use of a solution that destroys veins before your body naturally flushes them from your system; IPL (Intense Pulsed Laser) therapy – gently dissolves troublesome veins with broadband light; PDL (Pulsed Dye Laser) therapy – safely erases unsightly veins with a dyed laser; and laser therapy – various types of minimally-invasive lasers that dissolve the targeted veins. Whichever therapy is used to eliminate facial or leg veins, you should expect to have clearer, smoother, less painful, and healthier-looking skin, but the overall number of treatments required depends on the extent of your vein issue and the therapy chosen.

After the procedure

Side effects vary from treatment to treatment, but some patients may experience mild and temporary side effects that include swelling, redness, itching, and tenderness. Most side effects subside within 10-14 days after treatment.

Providers

Our approach & expertise

Our dermatologists have the skill and experience necessary to perform a vein treatment that meets your aesthetic goals. What separates us from other practices is that we focus on you as a person, so we will tailor treatment to suit your unique case. Our compassionate practitioners will address your concerns and answer any questions to ensure your ease of mind.

Lumps, Bumps and Moles

by

About Lumps, Bumps, and Moles

What are they?

“Lumps, bumps, and moles” is a general term that typically refers to warts, skin tags, vascular birthmarks, cysts, fat deposits, and more. Normally, these skin growths and irregularities are benign; however, they can have a negative bearing on your self-esteem because they often form on parts of your body that are easily visible, such as the face or neck. Other areas of the body that frequently develop lumps, bumps, and moles include the torso, back, arms, legs, and groin.

What causes them?

Since lumps, bumps, and moles can develop due to a multitude of reasons, it is important to schedule an appointment with a dermatologist who can properly identify and treat your particular condition.

Common treatments

Our skin experts have the training, knowledge, and experience to help you manage a variety of lumps, bumps, moles, warts, cysts, vascular birthmarks, and other skin irregularities. Treatment options include pulsed dye laser (PDL), Cutera Excel V laser, steroids, surgical excision, and prescription oral or topical medications. In some cases, such as with moles, only simple observation is necessary. However, since benign skin growths and irregularities vary from person to person, a consultation with your favorite skin specialist is the only to way to know which treatment is best for you.

Providers

Our approach & expertise

We understand that abnormal lumps or bumps in your skin may seem like nothing more than just a sign of aging, but they may actually be damaging the health and appearance of your skin. As your neighborhood skin specialists, we’re here to provide encouragement and advice about a variety of lumps, bumps, and moles. Our compassionate staff of experts is ready to answer your questions and address your concerns, so don’t hesitate to contact us today so we can manage these unwanted skin irregularities.

Nail Disorders

by

About Nail Disorders

What are they?

Most nail disorders are characterized as fungal infections, also called onychomycosis or tinea unguium, and both toenails and fingernails are vulnerable. About 1 in 10 Americans are affected, and you’re at a higher risk of developing these infections the older you are. Symptoms can vary, but typically include nail pain or soreness, thickened nails, a distorted appearance, nail darkening, yellowish streaks, separation of nails from the nail bed, brittleness, or even foul smells.

What causes them?

Several different fungi can lead to a nail disorder, as the pathogens enter the skin through very tiny openings between the nail and nail bed. If the surrounding area is warm, moist, and unventilated, the fungi propagate quickly. Other contributing factors for nail disorders include family history, walking barefoot in public areas, or profuse sweating. Even poor health can contribute to the development of these conditions, as diabetes and poor circulation are known triggers.

Common treatments

If you suspect you have a nail disorder or infection, be sure to see a professional dermatologist, as he or she can perform a nail scrape for quick results. A dermatologist can also help differentiate between nail disorders and other conditions with similar symptoms (like yellow nail syndrome). There are multiple treatments for nail disorders, including over-the-counter (OTC) oral anti-fungal medications and topical OTC anti-fungal medications are also available. An effective solution offered by our dermatologists is laser nail treatment, which treats the infection or disorder completely and almost painlessly. In other, more extreme cases, complete removal of the nail may be necessary.

Providers

Our approach & expertise

We realize that nail disorders can be unpleasant and sometimes even painful, which is why we’re here to ease your concerns about how to address this particular issue. Our trained, experienced dermatologic specialists offer treatment options that can be customized the way you want, and you will always have a say in any treatment you receive. We’ll be by your side throughout your journey, from diagnosis to treatment to aftercare, to ensure that you’re receiving the best dermatology care possible.
Healthy skin is our passion. Contact an office today if you notice symptoms of a nail disorder that you believe needs attention, and we’ll help you manage it in a way that suits you best.

Melasma Treatment

by

 

Melasma is a common skin condition that causes brown patches on the cheeks, forehead, upper lip or chin. Melasma usually occurs in women and is most common in people with darker skin tones, including those of Latin, Asian, Middle Eastern, African and Mediterranean descent. Dermatological Studies show that sun exposure, pregnancy, birth control pills, hormone therapy and heredity factors are the most common causes of melasma. Any sun exposure can trigger melasma because the pigment-producing cells in the skin (melanocytes) are stimulated by ultraviolet light from the sun.

Sun Screen

The best way to prevent melasma is by using sun screen and staying out of the sun. A wide brimmed hat and application of sunscreen SPF 30 or higher every two hours will help to keep you out of the sun’s harmful rays and lower your chances of getting melasma.

Prescription Medication

Prescription medication may be recommended as treatment based on your needs and melasma symptoms. The common medications we recommend are hydroquinone to lighten dark patches, tretinoin to exfoliate and enhance skin lightening or corticosteroid cream to reduce irritation.

Chemical Peels

Chemical peels are an effective way to eliminate skin discoloration and restore a more even appearance of your skin. We offer many different treatments such as light, medium, or heavy depth chemical peels for various skin types. Our chemical peel treatments have also been known to cut down on precancerous lesions that may lead to the development of skin cancer.

Skin Cancer Screening

by

Skin Cancer Screening Q&A

Why are skin cancer screenings important?

Skin cancer screenings evaluate the skin all over the body to look for signs of skin cancer. Often, the signs can be very subtle and difficult to identify. A dermatologist skilled in skin cancer screenings can spot changes associated with skin cancer so additional evaluation can be performed.

What’s involved in a skin cancer screening?

Skin cancer screenings assess skin on the entire body. Patients will be asked to change into a medical gown to make the evaluation simpler and faster. Screenings take just a few minutes to perform. When an abnormal or unusual area of skin is identified, a biopsy usually will be performed to obtain a small sample of skin cells for further evaluation in a lab. Different techniques can be used to obtain a biopsy depending on the size of the lesion, its appearance, its location and other factors. Some techniques scrape skin cells from the surface while others use instruments to obtain deeper samples of tissue. Prior to a biopsy, the skin will be numbed with a local anesthetic to prevent discomfort, and a bandage will be placed over the area afterward. Once the screening is complete, patients may receive guidance about ways to minimize their risks for skin cancer, including routine use of sunscreen and limiting sun exposure.

I already use sunscreen. Do I still need a skin cancer screening?

Yes. Sunscreen use is a vitally important part of preventing skin cancer, but there are other factors aside from current sun exposure that can increase the risks of skin cancer. Childhood sun exposure plays a big role, as well as genetics. Some people develop skin cancer without knowing the specific underlying cause or contributing factors. Having a skin cancer screening is a simple, fast way to limit your risks and to have early symptoms identified and treated before they have a chance to become more serious.

How often should I have a skin cancer screening?

Skin cancer screenings should be performed every 12 months in most cases. People with risk factors for skin cancer including a personal history of skin cancer or precancerous lesions may need to be screened more often.

Intense Pulse Light Therapy (IPL)

by

Intense Pulse Light Therapy, also known as IPL or photofacial, is a non-invasive procedure that uses pulses of light to treat several skin conditions for aesthetic purposes. At Arizona Dermatology, we use the state-of-the-art Palomar Icon system to provide you with the most effective, yet gentle, skincare treatment.

IPL is an effective treatment for:

  • Pigmented lesions
  • Vascular lesions
  • Redness
  • Poikloderma
  • Port-wine stains
  • Sun damage
  • Fine lines and wrinkles

IPL therapy uses a skin resurfacing technique to deliver its incredible results. The Palomar Icon system emits high intensity pulses of light that carry a range of lightwaves to the lower layers of the skin. In the process of bypassing the top layers of skin, the high intensity light converts to heat energy and begins breaking down your melanin pigments. The pieces of melanin pigment are then absorbed by your body to lift discoloration. IPL therapy produces visible results with little to no downtime.

If you want more information about IPL Therapy, call our office and schedule a complimentary consultation and test spot with our aesthetician.

Dermal Fillers

by

About Dermal Fillers

What are they?

Dermal fillers are substances injected just below the skin to help restore a more youthful appearance. A natural substance like hyaluronic acid is the main ingredient in most dermal fillers because it easily synthesizes with your skin and body. Hyaluronic acid binds to the body’s natural moisture reserves for a natural-looking improvement to your appearance.

What to expect

Our practice is happy to provide both the Juvéderm and Restylane line of dermal fillers. The Juvéderm line includes Juvéderm XC (to reduce lines around your nose and mouth), Vollure XC (to minimize deep nasolabial lines), Volbella XC (to improve fine lip lines), and Voluma XC (to enhance and volumize cheeks). Meanwhile, Restylane is used to soften nasolabial folds and lip lines, while Restylane Defyne treats sturdy support deep facial lines and Restylane Refyne treats of moderate facial lines and creases. Regardless of the dermal filler used, the treatment is quick, pain-free, and results in no downtime.

After the procedure

Depending on your specific treatment area, dermal fillers can provide you with the following benefits: diminished frown lines between the eyes, reduced smile lines around the nose and mouth, enhanced shallow lines around the lips, plump lips, volumized cheeks, and a reduction of wrinkles and facial creases. Overall, your skin becomes firmer and more resilient because the fillers help stimulate the production of collagen and elastin, important elements in your skin that help you look youthful.

Providers

Our approach & expertise

We realize that the effects of aging can impact your appearance and cause a loss of self-confidence, especially if you look older than you feel. We’re here to provide support and to offer a variety of treatment options to reduce the effects of aging and help rejuvenate your appearance. What distinguishes us from others is our focus on you as a person in customizing your unique treatment plan. Our caring neighborhood staff is ready to answer your questions and offer compassionate support, and our practitioners have the experience and skill to rejuvenate your appearance the way you want.
Healthy skin is our passion, so contact us to find out more about how we can tailor dermal fillers to meet your aesthetic goals.

Brown Age Spots (Sunspots)

by

About Brown Age Spots (Sunspots)

What is it?

Also known as liver spots or sunspots, brown age spots are not always uniform; they can be tan or black, can differ in size and shape, and usually appear on areas commonly exposed to the sun, such as the face, hands, arms, and shoulders. Although normally a cosmetic issue, brown age spots can develop into a medical issue if the spots rapidly enlarge, bleed, or change into unusual colors. If you notice these, please see your neighborhood board-certified dermatologist immediately.

What causes it?

Brown age spots are primarily caused by years of exposure to the UV rays of the sun (or to those of indoor tanning), which is why you may associate them with aging; however, brown spots can develop in younger people, as well. To be more specific, the spots result when the UV rays cause the buildup or clumping together of melanin in a localized area. Although brown spots can develop on any skin color, if you have light skin, you’re more susceptible. This is also the case if you have a history of sunburns or have spent a lot of time in the sun during your life.

Common treatments?

We understand that aging and years of fun in the sun can bring about changes in your skin, particularly brown age spots (or sunspots), which can have an effect on your self-esteem. As your community skin experts, we’re here to offer encouragement, answer questions, and provide solutions regarding this issue. Our skin experts offer a variety of treatments for liver spots, but they are based on your overall health and aesthetic goals. Options include prescription oral medications, prescription-strength creams, laser treatment, IPL therapy, dermabrasion, cryotherapy, and chemical peels.

Providers

Our approach & expertise

Our skilled dermatologists have the knowledge and experience to provide treatment options tailored to suit your needs and meet your goals. We’ll be with you throughout the process, providing compassionate advice and support. Your healthy skin is our passion. Contact us today if you notice brown age spots so that we can help you look your best.

Wart Removal

by

Warts are non-cancerous skin growths caused by viruses and formed in the top layer of skin. Warts commonly form as rough, skin-colored patches on the skin, but there are several different types of warts, including:

  • Common Warts
  • Plantar (foot) Wart
  • Genital Warts
  • Molluscum

Different warts respond to different dermatological treatments, so it’s important to understand the type of wart you have before selecting a treatment option. We offer a wide range of treatment options and recommendations based on the severity and type of wart(s). For less serious warts, salicylic acid products (in the form of drops, gels, pads and bandages) may aid self-treatment of warts by dissolving the keratin protein that creates the wart and the dead skin above it. Other effective treatments for warts include cantharidin/ Podophyllin, (painless solution applied in office), cryotherapy (freezing) or electrosurgery (burning). These may be recommended for painful or more serious warts.

We will work with you to determine which wart treatment will provide you with best possible results. Read about a few of our treatment options below, then schedule an appointment with us to find the right wart removal treatment for you and your skin.

Cantharidin

Cantharidin is a potent blistering agent derived from the dried, powdered blister beetle. This liquid formula is applied to the wart which enables it to form a blister-like reaction underneath. The “blister beetle solution” is commonly used to treat warts and molluscum, especially in children for whom other treatment options may be too painful, traumatic, or have the possibility of scarring.

Podophyllin

Podophyllin is a solution with a painless application. This solution exfoliates, irritates and instigates an immune reaction for the removal of warts in sensitive areas. Podophyllin must be applied by our skin care professional followed by careful monitoring to reduce potential side effects.

Cryotherapy

Cryotherapy is the most common treatment for warts among adults and older children. We utilize liquid nitrogen as a way to apply extreme coldness in order to “freeze” the wart as a method of elimination. This procedure may cause symptoms such as a feeling of numbness or tingling to the affected area for a short period of time.

Electrosurgery and Currettage

Electrosurgery is the burning of skin that contains the wart, through the use of an electrical current. After electrosurgery, treatment is continued by curettage, which involves scraping off the remaining wart with a small instrument. Often used together, electrosurgery and currettage are performed on areas that commonly develop warts such as the foot or hand.

Vitiligo Treatment

by

Vitiligo is a non-contagious skin condition that affects 1-2% of the population, which is approximately 2-4 million people in the United States! Vitiligo is a patterned loss of melanin pigment resulting from the destruction of melanocytes. Melanin pigment defines color in the hair and skin and is produced by cells called melanocytes. If melanocytes die or can no longer produce melanin, the skin becomes lighter or completely white.It is rare for your skin pigmentation to return on its own without the help of a treatment. However, if your skin does return to its natural color, you many still have vitiligo. The loss of pigmentation and how the pigmentation takes its course differs between each person. There is no way to detect the severity of how much pigment a person will lose after diagnosis.  Many people try disguising vitiligo with makeup or self-tanning compounds to make their pigmentation appear less noticeable. While none of these methods help cure the disease, they can improve the visibility greatly. If you’re tired of simply covering up your skin pigmentation, make an appointment with us and we can work with you to find a solution. Below is a list of vitiligo treatments that we may recommend based on your symptoms and needs.

Excimer Laser

The XTRAC® Excimer laser is a targeted laser that we use to deliver a focused beam of UVB light, through a unique delivery system, and targets the hypopigmentated patch of skin. While avoiding harm to the surrounding healthy tissue, we are able to successfully bring pigment back to areas of the skin suffering from discoloration.

Phototherapy

Phototherapy, or UV light, is a successful way to help bring back pigmentation to the skin. Clinical studies have shown that UVB light is the preferential wavelength for stimulating melanocytes to initiate the repigmentation response in vitiligo patches, bringing the color back to your skin.