Cosmetic Dermatology: Understanding Your Options

Maybe you know your skin could use some TLC but you just aren't sure where to look. Perhaps you're worried that cosmetic dermatology isn't "real health care" just because it has "cosmetic" in the name.

No matter how you feel about aesthetic services, there is a lot we can say to put your mind at ease as we discuss some of the latest health and wellness treatments available today.

What Is Cosmetic Dermatology?

It's simple enough to break cosmetic dermatology down into its parts. "Dermatology" refers to the study and treatment of both rare and common skin conditions (as well as issues related to the hair and nails), and "cosmetic" refers to improving the appearance of some part of the body.

In short, cosmetic dermatology options are focused on helping with issues ranging from scarring and the appearance of wrinkles to uneven skin pigmentation and hair loss.

Depending on your individual needs, your medical provider can use an assortment of treatment techniques to remove skin tags, moles, warts, or other blemishes, alter imperfections in your face, remove excess skin cells, and rejuvenate your skin.

What Are Common Conditions Addressed?

Even if you have a double chin, an uneven skin tone, scarring from pimples or other acne symptoms, or wrinkles, cosmetic dermatology providers have a treatment for you. Though no specialist can completely remove signs of age and other aesthetic imperfections, a well-informed procedure from a skin expert who knows your needs can still do amazing things for developing a youthful appearance.

Specific conditions and issues that are often treated include:

• Wrinkles
• Scars
• Discoloration of skin
• Hair loss
• Excess Fat
• Sun damage (aka "photoaging" or "photodamage")
• Facial volume loss (such as from lost facial skin or fat)

What Are the Most Common Cosmetic Procedures?

Laser therapy can be used to treat skin lesions, such as moles, warts, and skin tags. Laser therapy can also remove precancerous actinic keratosis spots caused by too much UV exposure. Cryotherapy, which involves freezing the lesions, is another method that can be used to treat these rough, patchy spots of skin in a safe way before they turn malignant.

Cosmetic services intended to treat or otherwise manage skin discolorations (such as hyperpigmentation, melasma, vitiligo, and even birthmarks) include laser therapy, prescription retinol or hydroquinone creams, and chemical peels. While these treatments aren't guaranteed to remove pigmentation issues entirely, they can keep the condition under control and manageable.

Contact Altaire Clinic Today to Schedule a Consult

Are you worried about the long-term health and appearance of your skin? If you want your skin to stay healthy and young-looking for years to come, you need to talk to the team of dermatologists at Altaire Clinic. We are happy to provide the cosmetic dermatology options you need for lifelong skin health and beauty. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with an experienced medical professional.