William F. Cothern, DO, FAAD, FAOCD

Actinic Keratosis, also known as solar keratosis, is a scaly or crusty lesion on the skin that develops slowly and indicates the presence of sun damage. It is most commonly found on parts of the body frequently exposed to the sun including the bald scalp, face, ears, lips, backs of the hands or forearms, neck, and shoulders.

Actinic keratosis improves just two days after a freezing removal treatment.

Actinic keratoses are considered precancerous and can develop into a type of skin cancer called squamous cell carcinoma. In fact, some 40 to 60 percent of squamous cell skin cancers begin as untreated actinic keratoses.

Because of this, your doctor should be diligent in diagnosing, treating and monitoring actinic keratosis.

Annual Skin Examinations are yearly scheduled skin exams with a dermatologist. Did you know that skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the U.S.? In fact, it is estimated that one in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime. Sun damage to the skin is cumulative over a person’s lifetime, so the average risk of skin cancer also increases as our life expectancy gets longer.

Just as you schedule your annual physical or trip to the dentist, it is important to conduct a self-examination of your skin each month and schedule a professional annual skin examination once a year. Skin cancer is a treatable condition, but early detection is key.

Basal Cell Carcinoma, also known as basalioma or basal cell cancer, is the most common type of skin cancer and carries the least amount of risk, though it still requires attention. If caught and treated early, basal cell carcinomas are not likely to be life-threatening, but they do have the potential to cause disfigurement of the skin tissue.

Almost one million new cases of basal cell carcinoma are diagnosed each year in the U.S., and up to 30% of Caucasians may develop basal cell carcinomas in their lifetime.

Basal cell carcinoma can be treated by removing the affected area.

Skin cancer is considered low risk when the affected cells remain clustered in a single group. Both basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma are rarely life-threatening. Though it is unlikely to spread to other parts of your body, if left untreated, basal cell carcinoma can move into nearby bone or other tissue.

Basal cell carcinoma typically begins as a small, shiny bump on the face, although it can occur on any part of the body.

Cryotherapy, or “cryosurgery,” is a simple, non-invasive procedure in which liquid nitrogen is used to freeze and destroy growths on the surface of the skin. This is an effective treatment for precancerous skin lesions (actinic keratoses), as well as other skin conditions such as warts, skin tags and moles.

Applying liquid nitrogen to skin lesions allows dermatologists to target the damaged skin cells and destroy them at the cellular level. After freezing, the affected area may blister and scab over, and should heal within three to six weeks.

Our dermatology team uses cryosurgery to treat a wide range of conditions. It offers a number of advantages: Cryotherapy is a simple, affordable outpatient procedure, the discomfort level is minimal, and there is a low risk of infection.

In cryotherapy treatment, liquid nitrogen is applied to the skin to freeze and destroy the affected tissue.

Melanoma, the deadliest of skin cancers, only accounts for about 4 percent of all skin cancer cases, but causes about 79 percent of skin cancer deaths.

Melanoma is a cancer of the skin that begins in the melanocytes, which are the cells that produce the pigment melanin. It is the leading cause of cancer death in women 25 to 30 years old and the second leading cause of cancer death in women 30 to 35 years old.

In some cases, melanoma occurs in melanocytes throughout the body, even if those parts have never been exposed to the sun.

Skin cancer is a common concern in the U.S.  Estimates reported by the American Academy of Dermatology suggest one in five people in the U.S. will develop some form of skin cancer. Merkel cell carcinoma is among the rarest forms of skin cancer, wherein estimates by the Skin Cancer Foundation suggest that only one in 130,000 people in the U.S. will be diagnosed with Merkel cell carcinoma. Like melanoma, Merkel cell carcinoma is an aggressive form of skin cancer with a high mortality rate.  As with most potentially aggressive malignancies, early detection is the best way to decrease the risk of death associated with Merkel cell carcinoma. You can learn more about diagnosis and treatment options for Merkel cell carcinoma on this page.

Photo Credit: Academic Dermatology of Nevada

Merkel cell carcinoma is a rare form of skin cancer that arises from Merkel cells, cells that reside deeper in the skin and function to send ‘touch’ signals from outside the skin to the inside of the body.  The diagnosis of Merkel cell carcinoma is ultimately made by an assessment under the microscope after a skin biopsy has been performed.  Skin biopsies are interpreted by dermatopathologists, doctors who specialize in evaluating skin under the microscope.  Dermatopathologists are well equipped to make this diagnosis accurately when skin tissue is submitted in a biopsy specimen.  Unfortunately, when Merkel cells become cancerous, they also become aggressive.  Merkel cell carcinoma can metastasize (spread) quickly, making it one of the most aggressive types of cancer.  While treatment for Merkel cell carcinoma may be successful, even with treatment Merkel cell carcinoma may evade what appears to be disease remission, and recur.

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the U.S. with more than 3.5 million cases diagnosed each year.

Skin cancer is the result of uncontrolled growth of abnormal skin cells that takes place when skin cells suffer DNA damage and then mutate, causing them to multiply rapidly and form malignant (cancerous) tumors. Most skin cancers develop on the visible outer layer of the skin (the epidermis), particularly on sun-exposed areas such as the face, head, hands, arms and legs. They are usually easy to detect with a skin examination, which increases the chances of early diagnosis.

There are different types of skin cancer, each named for the type of skin cell from which they originate. The most common type of skin cancer is basal cell carcinoma. Almost one million new cases of basal cell carcinoma are diagnosed each year in the U.S. Most skin cancers fall into one of three categories:

• Basal Cell Carcinoma
• Squamous Cell Carcinoma
• Melanoma

There are often warning signs that cancer is developing. The most common are pre-cancerous lesions called actinic keratoses that often develop on sun-exposed areas. These tumors replace normal surrounding tissue and generally do not spread to other areas.

Skin cancer is considered low risk when the affected cells remain clustered in a single group. Both basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma are rarely life-threatening.

Skin cancer is considered a high risk when cells have invaded surrounding tissues. The third most common skin cancer, malignant melanoma, can be life-threatening if not diagnosed and treated early.

If skin cancer is detected before it has spread to surrounding tissues, the chances of a complete recovery and cure are excellent. High-risk forms of cancer like melanoma require more aggressive treatments.

Suspicious moles should be watched closely, as they might indicate a cancerous growth.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma is a common form of skin cancer that develops in the squamous cells that make up the outer layer of the skin. Although it is usually not life-threatening, it can be aggressive in some cases.

If left untreated, squamous cell carcinoma can grow large or spread to other parts of your body, causing serious complications.

Your dermatologist will be able to examine your skin for signs of squamous cell carcinoma.

Telemedicine, also known as online dermatology, telehealth, or teledermatology, is the use of telecommunications technology to provide care across a distance. This includes using the Internet, cell phones, SMS messaging and even satellites to allow physicians and patients to communicate medical information. This technology has been available for over a decade now, but as it has gotten better and better, telemedicine has now become much more available, easy to use, and secure. If used in the right way, it is one of the best ways that we can improve access to care.

Because dermatology is a very visual field and a specialty in high demand, patient access is often challenged by long wait times. Meeting a dermatologist online can be a great way to provide patients with increased access to skin care. Teledermatology involves the use of real-time video streaming, or more commonly the transmission of still images, pictures, and video in combination with a patient’s medical information collected via questionnaire. Teledermatology can be utilized in many ways including physician-to-physician consultations, triage, follow-up care, and patient education.

If you’ve struggled with moderate to severe acne, including cystic or nodular acne, you know that many common acne treatments aren’t effective for everyone. Fortunately, the physicians at U.S. Dermatology Partners commonly prescribe Accutane (isotretinoin) for the treatment of those patients with acne that is unresponsive to other therapeutic options.

Acne is a dermatological condition caused by inflammation and mild infection in clogged pores. If not properly treated, acne can cause emotional distress, low self-esteem, and depression. In severe cases, it can even lead to permanent scarring.

While not a serious physical health threat, acne is an embarrassing skin problem that can be life-altering for many patients. Though it is most common among teenagers, acne can affect anyone, regardless of age or gender, and can be mild, moderate or severe.

Alopecia Areata, also known as spot baldness, is a type of hair loss in which your immune system attacks hair follicles. This leads to areas of baldness on the scalp and body. In severe cases, a person with alopecia may even lose the hair of their eyebrows and eyelashes.

Athlete’s Foot earned its name because this contagious fungal infection is commonly seen in athletes, who may wear sweaty socks for long periods of activity. It affects the skin on the feet and, left untreated, can spread to toenails and even to your hands.

Related: 5 Common Foot Rashes

Skin affected by athlete’s foot appears crusty or scaly and is likely to itch.

Cold sores, which are also called fever blisters, are groups of blisters that appear on the lip and around the mouth. The blisters may break open and leak a clear fluid and then scab over. They may take up to two weeks to heal. They are caused by the herpes (HSV) virus.

Cold sores can be uncomfortable and embarrassing.

Cysts are pockets of tissue (sacs) that may become filled with pus, fluids, skin cells, and even air.

They are fairly common on the skin and can appear anywhere on the body. Cysts may feel like a pea under the surface of the skin, but without removal, they can grow significantly larger over time. In most cases, cysts are not painful, and they grow slowly. There are different types of cysts as we’ll discuss in the next section, and the vast majority of these skin growths are benign (not cancerous). Not all cysts will require treatment, but it is vitally important to have any lump under the skin evaluated and diagnosed by a board-certified dermatologist because some soft tissue malignancies (growths that are cancerous) can present like a cyst. Before recommending removal or other cyst treatments, your dermatologist will examine the growth to determine whether it is likely to cause you pain, become infected, or otherwise lead to skin health issues.

Skin cysts, which can appear anywhere on the body, are usually painless and grow slowly.

Dandruff is a condition of the scalp which causes flaking and itching of the skin. It is more common in people with the skin conditions seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis and eczema, and also can be a reaction to hair or skin products.

Dandruff flakes can be visible on the shoulders.

Dermatitis, also sometimes referred to as eczema, is a common condition characterized by an itchy rash and inflamed skin. There are many different types of dermatitis and symptoms can range in severity from mild itching and redness to severe blistering and cracked skin.

Dermatitis is a group of diseases and comes in many forms, but all are characterized by inflammation of the skin, redness and itchiness.

Eczema, also sometimes referred to as dermatitis, is a common condition characterized by a certain type of inflammation in the skin. There are many different types of eczema and symptoms can range from mild itching and redness to severe blistering and cracked skin. Whether you’re newly diagnosed with eczema or you’ve struggled with this chronic skin condition for years, you know that finding a treatment that works for you isn’t just important – it’s essential. Without proper and effective interventions, people with eczema can experience significant discomfort, itching, and inflammation.

At U.S. Dermatology Partners, our knowledgeable dermatologists partner with their patients to develop and maintain an effective eczema maintenance plan and provide advanced treatments for serious flareups. Learn more on this page or contact U.S. Dermatology Partners to get started working with us today.



A fungal infection is an inflammatory condition that is caused by fungus. Fungal infections  can appear in many parts of the body and include athlete’s foot, yeast infections, skin and nail infections and more.

Related: 5 Common Foot Rashes

Toenail fungus can infect the toenails.

Head lice is a common condition, especially among children. While it may sound creepy or embarrassing to have small mites (or nits) in your hair, it’s actually a very manageable condition that is typically easy to treat right at home. On this page, you can learn more about how to get rid of lice from your head and your home.

Herpes simplex virus, often referred to simply as HSV, is an extremely common viral infection impacting millions of people in the U.S. alone. While there’s no known cure for HSV, some treatments have proven effective in minimizing the number and severity of flare-ups. You can learn more about HSV, its symptoms, and treatment options on this page. You can also work with one of the knowledgeable professionals at U.S. Dermatology Partners to create a treatment plan. To get started, simply complete our online scheduling request form. One of our team members will be in touch soon to finalize the details of your treatment plan.

Hidradenitis suppurativa is rare skin condition in which small, painful lumps develop under the skin, usually in areas where the skin rubs together (armpits, groin, between the buttocks, under the breasts, etc.) or in areas near hair follicles where many oil and sweat glands are present. Sometimes, the lumps may break open and smell, or they may create tunnels under the skin.

It can continue for many years, may worsen over time and can have serious effects on your daily life and emotional well-being, particularly during outbreaks.

If left untreated, Hidradenitis suppurativa can cause longstanding problems in your day-to-day life.

If you’re dealing with the itchy, inflamed, painful skin condition called hives, it may be time to call U.S. Dermatology Partners for help. Hives can be very uncomfortable, but recognizing the warning signs and taking appropriate actions to care for your skin can be important to quickly relieve these symptoms and get back to feeling your best. Keep reading to learn more about what causes hives and how your dermatologist can treat this condition.

Melasma is a fairly common skin condition that creates the appearance of brown to gray-brown patches of skin, usually on the face. It can also occur on the neck and forearms and is the result of the body producing too much melanin, that natural substance that colors our hair, skin, and eyes.

If you’re dealing with dark spots or patches on your skin from the chronic condition melasma, the U.S. Dermatology Partners team can help you to improve the appearance of these spots and minimize the risk for future flare-ups of the condition. Read the page below to learn more or reach out to the U.S. Dermatology Partners location nearest you for more information.

Atypical moles, also known as dysplastic nevi, are unusual-looking benign (noncancerous) moles.

A dysplastic mole is one that, when viewed on a cellular level, has features unlike those of a healthy, benign mole. A benign mole will have a regular pattern of coloration and pigment, even borders, symmetry, and a tan or pink color. Dysplastic moles can be asymmetric, have indistinct borders, or contain multiple colors or very dark pigment.

Dysplastic moles are often spotted as the “ugly duckling” on a patient’s skin. Any departure from the typical mole a person’s skin makes may be dysplastic. They can appear anywhere on the body, but in most cases are found on the back, chest, buttocks, breasts, or scalp.

People with atypical moles are at a higher risk of developing melanoma.

Molluscum contagiosum is a contagious skin disease that appears as pink or flesh-colored bumps on the skin. It is caused by skin-to-skin contact as well as from sharing towels, clothing or touching infected surfaces. It can also be acquired through sexual contact.

For adults, bumps are most often found on the face, neck, armpits, arms and hands. They may also appear on the genitals, abdomen and inner thighs.

Once you are infected with the virus, it can spread to other parts the body, especially if you pick or scratch at the bumps or touch other parts of your skin after touching the bumps. (This is called self-re-infection.)

Molluscum contagiosum is a contagious skin disease that appears as pink or flesh-colored bumps on the skin.

When your child develops a persistent rash or other skin condition, your goal is to find the appropriate treatment as quickly as possible to keep them comfortable and healthy. Pediatric dermatology is designed to meet the special needs of children with such conditions as birthmarks, psoriasis, warts, eczema and other skin disorders.

Pediatric dermatologist examining an infant.

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune inflammatory condition that causes patches of skin to become red, inflamed, and bumpy. This disease affects more than 8 million people in the U.S.

Psoriasis occurs when the immune system mistakes skin cells for a virus or other infection and responds by producing more skin cell growth. This can be triggered by stress, anxiety, injuries to the skin, infections and hormonal changes.

Despite the name, ringworm is not caused by worms; it is a skin infection caused by a fungus. It can be caused by touching another person who has the infection, or by sharing items that the person has been in contact — such as towels, bedding, chairs and clothes. It can also be caught from animals with fungal infections and, rarely, from contact with fungi in the soil.

Ringworm has a reddish, circular appearance.

Rosacea is a fairly common skin condition that causes redness in your face. In some cases, it may also produce small, red, pus-filled bumps. Typically these signs and symptoms may flare up for a period of weeks to months and then diminish for a while.

Rosacea may sometimes be mistaken for acne, an allergic reaction or other skin problems. It is believed to be caused by a combination of hereditary and environmental factors.

Learn more: 4 Types of Rosacea

Rosacea causes redness on the face.

Sebaceous hyperplasia is a benign bump on the skin that forms as a result of over-productive oil glands. When oil glands are damaged, they can become enlarged and clogged, leading to this condition. It is primarily a cosmetic concern rather than a medical problem.

Sebaceous hyperplasia is a benign bump on the skin that forms as a result of over-productive oil glands.

Seborrheic keratosis is one of the most common noncancerous skin growths found in older adults. It most commonly appears as a brown, black or light tan growth on the face, chest, shoulders or back. Although they are not cancerous, they can look like skin cancer.

Seborrheic keratosis is also known as seborrheic verruca or a senile wart.

Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a painful skin rash that occurs when the virus that causes chickenpox reactivates.

Typically, shingles appears on a small area on one side of the face or body. The rash is often painful because it travels up nerve roots (which supply sensation to your skin) to the area of skin supplied by those specific nerve roots.

Shingles is a painful skin rash that occurs when the virus that causes chickenpox reactivates.

Skin tags are small, soft skin growths that can occur anywhere on the body but are most common on the eyelids, neck, armpits, groin folds and under the breasts. They are harmless but they can be annoying, particularly if they are in an area where they are rubbed on by clothing. They may be flesh-colored, pink or may darken.

Skin tags are small, soft growths that can be skin-colored, pink, or may darken.

The sun can age and burn your skin, and it can also cause damage on the cellular level, leading to skin cancer. The good news is, the U.S. Dermatology Partners team can help you formulate a plan to prevent sun damage and repair the effects of the sun’s UV rays so that you can go out and enjoy a sunny day. Learn more on this page or contact U.S. Dermatology Partners to schedule an appointment with us.

Individuals who are prone to sunburn are thought to be genetically predisposed to skin cancer. Risk is also increased when exposure to UV rays is excessive. Sunscreen helps prevent the damaging effects of ultraviolet radiation, including skin aging and skin cancer like melanoma and squamous cell carcinoma.

Sunscreens are rated and labeled with a sun protection factor (SPF) that measures the fraction of sunburn-producing UV rays that reach the skin. The higher the SPF, the greater the protection.

Sunscreen is a topical product that is used to reflect or absorb some of the ultraviolet rays from the sun.

Vitiligo is an autoimmune disease in which white patches of skin appear on different areas of the body. This happens when melanocytes, the cells that make pigment in the skin, are destroyed. In addition to the skin, it can affect the mucous membranes of the mouth and nose as well as the eyes. Its cause is not known.

Vitiligo causes white patches on different areas of the body.

Warts are benign, non-cancerous growths that appear on the skin as the result of a virus called human papillomavirus, or HPV. They are contagious and are spread by contact – either with the wart or something that touched the wart. Cut or damaged skin is more vulnerable to warts.

Related: How to Identify a Wart

Warts are benign, non-cancerous growths that appear on the skin as the result of the human papillomavirus.

Body Contouring is a non-surgical way of reducing fat. Today there are many different technologies on the market that use technologies like ultra-low temperatures to freeze fat (see CoolSculpting, TruSculpt iD, CoolTone, or SculpSure for more details) or ultrasonic waves and radio frequencies to melt fat.

Body contouring can be done on many areas of the body, including the abdomen, waist, and arms and legs.

Botox, the commercial brand name for botulinum toxin (BTX), is an injectable cosmetic dermatology treatment that reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles on the face.

Unlike injectable wrinkle fillers, which work by filling a crease in your skin with another substance, Botox actually relaxes targeted muscles to reduce the look of lines in the face. This results in smoother skin with a more youthful appearance.

Each Botox injection relaxes key facial areas by temporarily paralyzing specific muscles. This temporarily removes wrinkles and improves the look of laugh and frown lines, skin bands on the neck, crow’s feet, forehead creases and more.

Botox is a quick procedure that is done in just minutes in your doctor’s office.

Although it was originally developed to treat eye muscle disorders, Botox has become popular cosmetically and this is now its primary use. In fact, Botox injections are now the most common cosmetic treatment in the U.S., with 6.3 million procedures done in 2013. Because Botox inhibits the release of certain neurotransmitters, it is also sometimes used to treat chronic migraines.

The CO₂ laser is a carbon dioxide laser that is used for skin resurfacing. Thin layers of skin are vaporized using a high-energy beam of laser light. This creates a “controlled injury” to the skin: as the skin heals, it produces collagen as a natural part of the healing process, which restores your skin’s elasticity.

CO₂ laser resurfacing is designed to minimize wrinkles, reduce facial scarring, even out skin tone, and increase dermal collagen. When performed by an experienced provider, CO₂ laser resurfacing typically is more effective than other treatments like dermabrasion or microneedling.

When it comes to dermatological treatments that will help people reclaim a youthful glow, create an even skin tone, and minimize the appearance of scars, chemical peels offer a conservative solution that addresses all of these concerns. Chemical peels are versatile treatments that help to improve the health and appearance of the skin, and just about every patient could benefit from the procedure. If you’re interested in learning more, continue reading below or get in touch with a U.S. Dermatology Partners location near you to schedule your visit.

Chemical Peels are treatments that can improve the skin’s appearance by peeling off an old layer of skin to reveal the healthy new skin below. The ingredient used in the chemical peel solution makes the skin redden, and when the skin peels off, the skin below it is smoother, healthier, and less wrinkled.

CoolSculpting is a safe, effective and non-surgical way to get rid of fat.  It is a form of body contouring that uses extremely low temperatures to freeze and permanently destroy fat in problem areas. As a quick treatment with no downtime or recovery time afterward, it is an easy way to target problem areas that are resistant to diet or exercise.

Looking to improve and recover your skin’s youthful appearance?

As we age, our skin naturally loses collagen and elasticity. At the same time, repetitive movements and expressions can create facial wrinkles. In addition to comprehensive medical procedures, dermatologists also provide a wide range of minimally-invasive, low impact treatments designed to address a number of aesthetic desires to help you look and feel your best.

While many conditions from unwanted hair and tattoos to wrinkles and rosacea may not be physically harmful, they can be uncomfortable and even cause emotional distress. Cosmetic dermatology offers a wide range of cosmetic surgery and non-surgical services focused on giving you the results you want without the pain, worry, and downtime.

Cosmetic dermatology focuses on aesthetic issues such as skin tone and overall appearance.

Loss of facial fullness and volume is one of the many age-related changes that people want to address with their dermatologist. From store-bought topical treatments to advanced dermatologic and surgical procedures, there are numerous cosmetic dermatology treatments available to help restore youthful volume. However, dermal and soft tissue fillers are often the most conservative and impactful solutions to restore volume without undergoing more invasive treatments. There are many different types of dermal and soft tissue fillers, and each one is formulated to address a specific area or issue related to volume loss. You can learn more on this page.

At U.S. Dermatology Partners we offer premier dermatology services for patients of all ages. Book your appointment today to find the best facial filler treatment for you and your skin, using our simple, online scheduling request form.

The procedure for dermal fillers can usually be done in less than an hour.

Dysport is a prescription injection used for the temporary improvement in severe frown lines between the eyebrows. As the muscles relax and prevent contractions, wrinkles in and around the brow and frown area will disappear.

Dysport, also known as Reloxin, is made from a neurotoxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum; it is the same neurotoxin used in BOTOX Cosmetic.

Fraxel laser skin resurfacing is a fractional laser technology designed to help restore your skin to its original texture. The laser treatment encourages the creation of new skin, which gives you fresher, younger looking skin and improved tone and texture. It also helps erase brown spots, acne scars and surgical scars, and can minimize fine line lines and wrinkles.

Fraxel skin resurfacing leaves the skin clear and beautiful.

We all want to look our very best and an IPL photo rejuvenation treatment, also called a photofacial treatment, can help many people reclaim smooth, youthful skin with even tone and pigmentation. In short, you’ll be photo-ready. When it comes to aesthetic treatment like IPL, it’s always best to partner with a knowledgeable dermatologist who can ensure you achieve the results you’re after while limiting potential damage to your skin. You can learn more about this cosmetic treatment option on this page and by contacting the U.S. Dermatology Partners location nearest your home. We look forward to hearing from you soon!

IPL Photo Rejuvenation is a completely safe, comfortable, non-invasive procedure that uses intense pulses of light to penetrate deep into the skin. These light pulses (like a camera flash) cause collagen and blood vessels below the epidermis (the top layer of skin) to constrict. The light waves are passed through either hemoglobin (red blood cells) or melanin (pigmented cells) in the skin breaking down the cells, which are then reabsorbed into the body, reducing discoloration. In addition to evening out the complexion, the heat directed into the inner layers of skin also stimulates the production of more collagen, which is an effective way to improve skin’s texture and diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

This treatment helps to improve many skin irregularities, including:

• Dark spots
• Uneven skin tone
• Enlarged pores
• Sun damage
• Reddening
• Broken blood vessels
• Fine lines
• Minor scars – like chickenpox or acne scarring
• Rosacea (effective in improving symptoms for some patients)

IPL Photo Rejuvenation can be used on the face as well as the hands, chest, and neck.

Juvederm is a group of injectable dermal filler gels made from hyaluronic acid and used to correct for moderate to severe facial wrinkles and folds or to provide contour. Different types of Juvederm are:

• Juvederm Voluma XC – designed to add volume to the cheeks
• Juvederm Volbella XC – used to smooth lines and wrinkles around the mouth
• Juvederm Vollure XC – softens moderate to severe facial lines and wrinkles around the nose and mouth
• Juvederm Ultra XC – created to add volume to the lips
• Juvederm Ultra Plus XC – used for adding volume to the lips and face

Juvederm is delivered via injection.

Keloids are raised, red scars created by excessive healing of skin wounds, such as burns, cuts and acne. They are the result of an overproduction of collagen as the skin tries to repair itself. Keloids also can occur after piercings, tattoos or surgery and often times are itchy and painful. They can grow for years and sometimes show up three months or longer after the injury occurred.

Keloid are caused by an overproduction of collagen as the skin tries to repair itself.

Keratosis pilaris is a common skin condition characterized by small, hard bumps that may make your skin feel like sandpaper. Most often they appear on your upper arms, thighs and buttocks, and sometimes are accompanied by redness or swelling. In some cases they may appear on your face.

It is caused by a buildup of keratin, a protein that protects skin from infections. When a buildup forms, it blocks the opening of a hair follicle and creates the bumps, but doctors don’t know what triggers the buildup.

Keratosis pilaris, a condition where keratin overproduction causes clogged pores, can lead to red bumps and irritation on the skin.

Laser hair removal is a medical procedure that uses laser technology to remove unwanted hair. U.S. Dermatology offers high-quality laser hair removal treatment all throughout the USA, click here to see which locations are near you.

Laser rosacea therapy is a way to treat a rosacea complexion. One of the most common and effective treatments is the pulsed dye laser (PDL), which targets visible blood vessels and can reduce redness and flushing by destroying the lining of the inflamed blood vessels.

Rosacea on facial skin is treatable with laser rosacea therapy.

Laser skin resurfacing is a treatment used to reduce facial wrinkles and skin conditions including acne, scars, warts, enlarged glands on the nose and more.

The process vaporizes the upper layers of skin, which creates a wound that encourages the body to produce new collagen. The collagen and elastic fibers tighten as they heal, and the tightened skin eliminates wrinkles as it pulls together.

Laser skin resurfacing reduces facial wrinkles and treats skin conditions.

Laser treatments work by using specific wavelengths of light to interact with tissue, which can positively affect pigment, blood vessels, hair follicles and moisture in the skin. The result is improved skin tone and texture, as well as the tightening of loose skin.

Lasers can also be tuned to very specific frequencies to perform different tasks and can even be used in surgery to allow doctors to work on a very precise area with less pain, swelling and scarring than traditional surgery.

Cosmetically, lasers can be used for skin resurfacing and to treat such things as acne, wrinkles, rosacea and more.

Laser vein reduction uses light focused on a specific area to break up broken blood vessels. This allows them to be absorbed back into the body.  It is most often used for eliminating spider veins.

Vein laser treatment breaks up broken blood vessels.

Microdermabrasion is a treatment that can help improve the appearance of facial skin. It is used for reducing wrinkles and treating a variety of conditions including acne, scars, warts, enlarged glands on the nose and more.

Microdermabrasion improves the texture and appearance, along with creating better circulation and lymph flow.

Restylane is an injectable dermal filler gel made from hyaluronic acid to produce volume and fullness in the skin. This reduces the appearance of wrinkles and can also create fullness in the lips.

• Restylane – this is the original Restylane product. This versatile dermal filler can be used to add volume to any pits and grooves in the skin. The original Restylane product is recommended for improving the appearance of nasolabial folds, the deep grooves and wrinkles around the nose. It can also be used for lip enhancement.
• Restylane Silk – this innovative hyaluronic acid filler material is specially formulated to address fine lines around the mouth as well as creating smoother, plumper lips. It is the first FDA approved product specifically designed to help you achieve the perfect pout.
• Restylane Lyft – as we age, natural fat cells are depleted, and the production of collagen and elastin slows. This leads to loose skin, wrinkles, and volume loss in the hands and face. Restylane Lyft is designed to replace volume and firmness in both the hands and the cheeks.
• Restylane Refyne – this is the ideal dermal filler to improve the appearance of mild to moderate laugh lines, including the nasolabial folds that appear from the nose to the corner of the mouth and marionette lines that form from the corner of the mouth to the chin. Restylane Refyne provides support for the skin, creating a smooth appearance while allowing you to maintain all of your facial expression.

Restalyne helps smooth away wrinkles and fine lines.

RHA stands for Resilient Hyaluronic Acid. RHA Collection fillers were specifically formulated to treat dynamic fine lines, wrinkles, and facial folds. In fact, RHA Collection fillers are the only FDA-approved hyaluronic acid fillers for use on dynamic facial wrinkles and folds in the skin. Dynamic wrinkles and folds develop on areas of the face that move often. This includes areas that move when individuals frown, smile, squint, laugh, and talk. The repetitive movement leads to wrinkles and creases in the skin over time. This includes those movements that are intentional, as well as the unconscious micro-movements that take place without us noticing. Many dermal fillers and neurotoxin injections, which are often recommended to address fine lines and wrinkles, may not be the best option to address dynamic wrinkles and folds in the skin. While these areas need to move as we express ourselves, other treatment options can leave them looking stiff or frozen. The RHA Collection is designed specifically to adapt to natural facial movements, allowing you to fully express yourself in the moment without lingering wrinkles and fine lines afterward. Treatment with RHA Collection fillers offers more natural results when the face is at rest, as well as in motion.

We all want healthy, beautiful skin. But scars, a natural part of the healing process, leave a lasting mark and cause some people to struggle with the negative impact on the appearance of their skin and in some cases, limitations in function or other concerns. If you’re unhappy with the appearance, texture, or health of your skin after an injury, surgery, or other damage that leads to scarring, the U.S. Dermatology Partners team can offer treatment to improve the appearance of scarring.

Sclerotherapy is an outpatient procedure performed by a board-certified dermatologist. It is used to treat varicose and spider veins in the legs. Sclerotherapy involves injecting a solution directly into the vein. The solution irritates the lining of the blood vessel, causing it to close when compression is applied.

Skin lightening is a process used for people who want to lighten certain areas of skin that are affected by such things as melasma, age spots or even freckles.

Skin lightening can help provide a smooth, even skin tone.

Spider veins are blood vessels that are visibly enlarged and can be seen on the face as well as other areas of the body, most commonly the legs. They may also be called broken blood vessels or thread veins, and appear as hairline marks that can be red, bluish or purple. They most often appear on the nose, chin or cheeks.

Broken blood vessels occur when the skin has been damaged. They are often caused by falls or accidents that caused bruising, or by scrubbing the face too vigorously. However, spider veins also can be caused by such factors as aging, pregnancy, estrogen replacement therapy, sun damage and rosacea. In the legs, they may be caused or worsened by standing or sitting for long periods of time, obesity and constipation.

Spider veins are visibly enlarged blood vessels.

Tattoo removal is a way to remove unwanted tattoos using lasers to break down the ink particles in the design. The broken-down ink is then flushed out by the immune system, and it mimics the natural fading that would have happened over time or with exposure to the sun. Since no tattoo removal is guaranteed, it is important to speak with a professional to get an honest evaluation of what your final results will look like.

Tattoo removal will take more than one visit, depending on the size and color of your tattoo. It may take as few as two visits, or it may take 10 or more.

Laser tattoo removal makes the tattoo invisible.

ThermiRF is a new technology that uses radiofrequency energy to treat tissue below the skin, rather than addressing the problems on the surface of the skin. The procedure stimulates collagen growth over time, so its effects might not be seen immediately. It is used for contouring, treating wrinkles and sagging skin, as well as being used to reduce vaginal laxity. It can also be used to reduce sweating in underarms.

ThermiRF is used for contouring, and treating wrinkles and sagging skin.

Chemical peels are a popular cosmetic dermatology solution to improve skin texture, tone, and appearance. There are numerous types of chemical peels available, but the unique formulation of the VI Peel treatment system provides exceptional results to improve the appearance, health, and vitality of the skin. You can learn more on this page or by getting in contact with the skilled dermatologists at U.S. Dermatology Partners for a consultation visit.

Vivace is an innovative new cosmetic dermatology solution that combines microneedling with state-of-the-art radiofrequency technology to deliver exceptional results in helping maintain skin that looks smooth and youthful. If you’re interested in learning about how Vivace reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, you’ll find some of the basic details about the Vivace treatment process on this page. When you’re ready to experience premier dermatology services with the U.S. Dermatology Partners team, you can get started today by filling out our online appointment request. We have numerous dermatology practices across Arizona, Colorado, Kansas, Maryland, Missouri, Oklahoma, Texas, and Virginia.

Whatever our age or skin type, we all want the same thing – to keep our skin looking youthful and flawless as long as possible. Despite our best efforts, wrinkles and fine lines will still develop over time. Traditional methods of minimizing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles can be uncomfortable or ineffective, but Vivace is a quick, minimally invasive solution that effectively reduces fine lines and wrinkles, allowing you to age gracefully and look and feel your best at any age.

The Vivace treatment process combines these four effective treatments to deliver exceptional results:

• Microneedling is a cosmetic dermatology treatment that harnesses the skin’s healing powers to restore a more youthful appearance. The procedure involves using a small gauge needle to create microscopic injuries to the skin. These micro-injuries jump-start the healing process, causing the skin to produce more collagen and promote faster cell turnover.
• Radiofrequency technology uses heat to stimulate the production of collagen in deeper layers of skin. This means that, as the surface-level skin cells are replaced with new, healthy cells, patients will maintain a smooth, youthful appearance longer.
• Cooling peptide masks – applied immediately following treatment to soothe skin, prevent inflammation, and improve the results of treatment.
• Deep moisturizing serum & protective balm – before you leave, a soothing serum is applied and will need to remain on the skin for at least six hours to protect the treatment area and further improve the results.