In this Article you will learn:

-Information about Botox.

-GENERAL questions Dermatology procedures.

-Finding a Doctor.

-Dermatologists own skin secrets

What should I expect during my first visit to a Dermatologist?

After examining your records and information that has been supplied to us, a Dermatologist will conduct a thorough skin examination, followed by making a diagnosis and discussing your detailed treatment plan. Ask questions, and most Dermatologist will be glad to address your concerns.

What can I do to improve the look of my skin?

The most effective treatment for skin, much like anything else, is prevention. It is important to have a balanced, nutritious diet; to get plenty of exercise; and most importantly, to avoid overexposure to the sun. Sun exposure is responsible for the majority of medical and cosmetic skin conditions, so always be sure to protect yourself by using large-brimmed hats and good coverage sunscreens when in sunlight. Whether you are looking to maintain the look and health of your skin, prevent skin cancer, or remove some brown spots or blemishes, dermatologists can assist you in finding a product to meet your skin care needs.

What conditions can dermatology treat?

Dermatology can treat a wide range of conditions affecting the skin, hair and nails, including, but not limited to, acne, psoriasis, rosacea, skin cancer, wrinkles, sun spots, pigmentation problems, warts, rashes, bacterial or fungal skin and nail infections, spider and varicose veins, and sun damage. If you have a skin-related problem, a dermatologist is the best choice for lasting, effective treatment.

How much does dermatologic treatment cost?

As with any medical treatment, costs vary, depending upon the scale and severity of the condition, as well as the treatment method. However, many medical dermatology treatments may be covered under insurance plans. For treatments not covered, many dermatologists offer a range of convenient payment options.

What sunscreen should I use?

Any sunscreen is better than going without, but some types of sunscreen may protect you better or be more suited to your needs than others. Finding the right sunscreen is partly finding one with the right consistency for your skin type. Those will oily or acne-prone skin may want to go with a less greasy sunscreen, for example. Also, anyone planning to go into water or to sweat may want a water-resistant formula. But more importantly, it is crucial to understand that spf is not the only thing to look at when choosing a sunscreen. SPF is based only on UVB protection. UVB are the burning rays, but UVA penetrate deeper (through glass even) and are the aging rays.

What is the difference between a spa facial and a medical facial?

A spa facial is designed to clean and hydrate the skin, as well as provide relaxation. A medical facial combines a results-driven skin treatment with the rejuvenation of a spa facial. The products used in a medical facial contain physician-grade ingredients and cannot be purchased outside of a medical facility. After careful analysis of the skin, the aesthetician uses these active products to address specific concerns and maintain the health of the skin.

What can I expect during and after a chemical peel?

Your dermatologist or aesthetician may recommend a chemical peel to diminish fine lines, skin discoloration, a dull complexion, acne, or rough skin. There are different types of safe and effective peels and one will be recommended based on your skin type, your concerns, and your lifestyle. During your chemical peel, the aesthetician will watch your skin closely and ask you to rate your sensitivity. You may feel transient stinging, tingling, and flushing of the skin. After your peel, you will be instructed to protect yourself in the sun and keep the skin hydrated. Although the skin improves after one peel, best results are seen with multiple treatments.

Do laser treatments hurt?

Generally speaking, laser treatment does not "hurt". Most laser treatments are administered in pulses that last only a small fraction of a second, which minimizes how much you feel it. Many of our patients describe the sensation of fractional and CO2 lasers to be like the feeling of a rubber band snapping on the skin. If you have sensitive skin, you may also ask us about topical anesthetic options.

Which moisturizers/lotions should I use?

Retaining moisture is an important aspect of skin care, and can not only help your skin feel soft, but also help it maintain health and vitality. Choosing a moisturizer involves knowing your skin type and specific needs. If you have dry skin, for example, you may want a heavier, oil or petroleum-based moisturizer, and if you have oily, acne-prone skin, look for moisturizers that are water-based, oil-free and labeled "non-comedogenic" or "non-acne-genic". People with sensitive skin should get hypo-allergenic, perfume-free formulations. And moisturizers with SPF protection are also an excellent choice if you plan to be out in the sun.

Finding Doctors

• What specialists do your primary care doctor and other health care professionals recommend?

• Other health care professionals are good sources of information.

• Ask your health insurer if they can provide recommendations.

• Your state medical society or other local health care organizations normally have referral services.

• Visit the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services web site:

http://www.HealthFinder.gov for physician directories and excellent health-related information.

• The Medicare web site has a directory of doctors, including dermatologists, who are enrolled in the Medicare program. http://www2.Medicare.gov/Physician/Search/PhysicianSearch.asp

Dermatologists' own skin secrets

Apply moisturizer while your skin is still damp from bathing to lock in moisture. Use moisturizer before applying your makeup foundation. Then lightly pat more moisturizer on top. Puffy eyes? Dark Circles? Apply used, refrigerated coffee pods (individual servings in what look like tea bags) to your eyes for about 10 minutes. The caffeine and cold reduce swelling. Eye moisturizer with vitamin K can help reduce the visibility of blood vessels under your eyes. Always wash your face before you go to bed to prevent makeup, moisturizers and oils from seeping into your pores. Don't shave the minute you pop out of bed, gentlemen. Wait about half an hour to let your facial muscles firm up, which helps the hairs move upright. Then shave with the directing of your beard to reduce ingrown hairs. Your skin reacts to changes in the seasons, so don't use the same products all year.

Information on Botox- Botox Injections

With nearly three million procedures performed, BOTOX injections lead all cosmetic procedures in 2003. Americans spent over one million dollars getting the facial filler injected into their lips, folds, and wrinkles. BOTOX has received several FDA approvals for treating everything from underarm sweating to eye twitches. Of course its most common use is for cosmetic purposes, for which it received FDA approval in 2002 under the product name BOTOX Cosmetic.

How It's Done

BOTOX Inection is a very simple process that can be accomplished in about 10-30 minutes, depending upon the amount injected and number of desired treatment areas. A topical anesthetic is used to numb the areas to be injected; then small amounts of BOTOX are injected into predetermined areas with a thin needle. There is some pain or discomfort associated with the injections themselves, however, this is usually slight and does not persist after the injection process has taken place.BOTOX works by paralyzing the muscles in your face. Skin that cannot move cannot form lines and wrinkles.

Technology

Botulinum toxin A is a purified protein made from botulism. The technology of the production and injection of BOTOX has not changed by any significant degree since its original use as a facial filler.

Recovery / Post Op Expectations

Return to work or normal activity is almost always immediate. There is usually little or no bruising, bleeding, pain, or other such discomforts. Touching or massaging treated areas should be avoided as this could disrupt the placement. The effects of injection usually last between 3 and 6 months.

Complications

The most common complications are drooping eyelids or raised eyebrows. These side effects are not permanent as the paralysis from BOTOX wears off. BOTOX is a marketing name for botulinum toxin A, a neurotoxin associated with botulism, a potentially fatal disease that sends the body, or parts of the body into paralysis. For this reason, some people believe that there is a possibility of contracting botulism from BOTOX, although there have been no cases of botulism linked to BOTOX injections according to Allergen, the manufacturer of the product.

Am I A Candidate?

For the most part BOTOX patients are interested in improving the appearance of their face, especially in the forehead and around the eyes. Most candidates seek minor improvements of wrinkles, facial folds, and crow's feet.