Is IPL right for you? Here are answers to some questions you may have.

What types of aesthetic concerns can be addressed with this treatment?

• Acne: IPL treatments can help improve the appearance of red blemishes, irregular pigmentation and skin tone.
• Aging skin: IPL treatments can help address dark spots, freckles, age spots, uneven pigmentation and diffuse redness.
• Vascular lesions: IPL can be used to treat port wine stains, broken capillaries, diffuse redness, hemangiomas and cherry angiomas.
• Brown spots and capillaries: IPL can remove pigmentation and reduce the size of capillaries to lessen redness.

How many treatments will I need?

The number of treatments depends on the area and nature of what you’re having treated and may also depend on your skin type. The staff at Vista Dermatology will tell you how many treatments are expected.

What can IPL do for sun-damaged skin?

It makes your skin look clear and bright by delivering short bursts of light that directly target the blood vessels or melanin within your skin.

How long before my vascular lesions vanish?

Smaller vessels can disappear immediately after treatment. Larger ones fade away more gradually over the next few weeks.

On which areas of the body can IPL reduce brown spots and capillaries?

IPL is effective for minimizing these conditions on the face, neck, chest, and tops of hands.

How does the acne treatment work?

Acne occurs when your sebaceous glands overproduce an oily substance called sebum. When extra sebum gets trapped in your hair follicles, your skin can become irritated — leading to the appearance of pimples on your face. Left untreated, some types of acne can cause permanent scarring. With IPL, only the blood vessels that supply the sebaceous gland are impacted, while the surrounding vessels are not affected.

Do you think IPL is right for you? Contact us for a consultation.

The post IPL Treatment FAQ appeared first on Vista Dermatology.

Vista Dermatology is pleased to offer the FRAXIS DUO Fractional CO2 Laser, the world’s first cosmetic laser system that combines carbon dioxide fractional laser and micro-needle RF fractional technology. This dual technology ensures significantly improved skin quality and texture through intense superficial stimulation, increased volumetric heating and deeper heat diffusion.

This safe and highly advanced procedure can be used to treat both the face and body and promotes the reduction of wrinkles, hyper-pigmentation, acne scars, uneven texture, pore size, stretch marks…and more.

Here are some commonly asked questions about the treatment.

What are the benefits of this procedure?

If you have skin imperfections or progressive signs of aging, the FRAXIS DUO Fractional CO2 Laser treatment is a viable alternative to invasive surgical procedures that typically cost more and involve longer down times. Patients who undergo this procedure can expect skin that becomes increasingly smoother, clearer, and more rejuvenated after the treatment. FRAXIS is designed to treat and reduce the appearance of the following:

• Severe signs of sun damage
• Deeper fine lines and wrinkles
• Scarring from acne or surgery
• Skin irregularities like warts and moles
• Enlarged pores
• Age spots
• Uneven skin tone

What are the benefits?

This treatment is highly effective for a wide variety of applications and can treat multiple skin concerns in one session. With the added benefit of the micro-needle RF, this brand-new technology offers the following benefits:

• Improved skin tone and texture
• Significantly reduced wrinkles
• Firmer, lifted skin
• Pore size reduction
• Smoother, younger-looking skin

How do I get started?

The initial consultation is the first and most important step of undergoing this procedure. It gives you the opportunity to get to know Dr. Muñoz and the treatments she offers. Similarly, consultations allow us to learn more about you, your specific cosmetic concerns, and your expectations of the treatment. This is so we can develop the right treatment plan that can safely and effectively achieve your desired outcome. The consultation will also involve the following:

• Interview about your medical history
• A thorough examination of the target areas

What can I expect?

A topical anesthetic will be applied to your entire face or specific target areas. Alternatively, an inhaled analgesia (Pro-Nox) may be used, depending on your anesthetic needs and the extent of the treatment.

We will then begin by making several passes on sections of your face or specific target areas with both the fractional laser and micro-needle hand pieces. Heat and tingling sensations can be expected as the laser moves across the skin.

Depending on the size of the target areas, the procedure may take anywhere between 30 to 90 minutes. For a full face treatment, the treatment can last up to two hours.

What is the recovery time?

Immediately after the procedure, treated areas will be red and warm to the touch. Ice packs or a cold compress may be applied for five to 10 minutes per hour during the first five to six hours post-treatment in order to ease discomfort. A thick topical gel may be prescribed to protect and speed up the healing process, and you may be advised to avoid showering for the first few days.

It will take about three to 14 days to shed dead skin and heal completely. For four to six weeks after the treatment, the treated areas will remain pinkish and slightly blotchy. While your skin will already start to show noticeable improvements after the initial recovery, the final results will be revealed in about three to six months.

If you think you’d benefit from a FRAXIS DUO treatment, contact Vista Dermatology for a consultation.

The post Fraxis Duo FAQ appeared first on Vista Dermatology.

Here are some frequently asked questions about the procedure.

How does SkinPen work?

SkinPen creates hundreds to thousands of “micro” skin punctures per second to stimulate the skin’s natural wound healing process – inflammation, proliferation, and remodeling – to prompt tissue remodeling without causing scar tissue formation. Most patients can return to normal activities within 24 hours.

Why should I use it?

SkinPen is clinically proven to fight the appearance of neck wrinkles and reduce the appearance of acne scars. In fact, 90% of subjects in the clinical trial would recommend the treatment to friends and family. It’s a minimally invasive procedure performed in-office with little to no downtime. As the first FDA-cleared microneedling device, SkinPen sets the industry standard for safety.

Will it work for me?

Unlike some alternatives, SkinPen has been clinically proven to be effective for women and men with with all Fitzpatrick Skin Types I – VI. Likewise, unlike lasers or chemical peels that can damage skin over the long term, SkinPen treatments, when properly spaced and overseen by a physician, can be used for years.

Is it safe?

Yes, by design. SkinPen’s patented – and single-use – sterile needle cartridge is built with safety in mind. SkinPen is also surrounded by a custom-designed BioSheath that acts as a barrier to prevent cross contamination between procedures. That’s part of the reason SkinPen by Crown Aesthetics is the world’s first FDA-cleared microneedling device.

Who shouldn’t use it?

SkinPen should not be used on patients who have active skin cancer in the treatment area(s); open wounds, sores, or irritated skin in the treatment area(s); an allergy to stainless steel or anesthetics; a hemorrhagic (bleeding) disorder or hemostatic (bleeding) dysfunction; are pregnant or nursing; or are currently taking drugs with the ingredient isotretinoin (such as Accutane). Talk to us to see if this treatment is right for you.

What about the procedure did the FDA clear?

Quite a bit. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s clearance covers not only the SkinPen device but the entire protocol. That includes the Skinfuse® Lift HG hydrogel used to protect against abrasion and friction during the treatment, as well as the custom-designed BioSheath to prevent cross contamination.

Find out if SkinPen is right for you. Contact us for a consultation.

The post SkinPen FAQ appeared first on Vista Dermatology.

The Frax Pro™ system is a non-ablative, fractional laser that allows both shallow (Frax 1940™)¹ and deeper (Frax 1550™)² skin resurfacing.

1. Ellipse Frax 1940, 510(k) clearance (K192951), March 2020.
   2. Ellipse Ydun Frax 1550, 510(k) clearance (K180406), March 2018.

What types of aesthetic conditions can be treated?

Via Frax Pro™ skin resurfacing treatment, you can:

• Resurface skin by smoothing textural irregularities^1,2
• Rejuvenate* sun-damaged skin^1,2
• Improve skin texture^1,2

*Via skin resurfacing

1. Ellipse Frax 1940, 510(k) clearance (K192951), March 2020.
2. Ellipse Ydun Frax 1550, 510(k) clearance (K180406), March 2018

How many treatments will I need?

Typically, you will be offered a course of 3 treatments, but this will vary according to your needs.^1-3 If you have darker skin, your healthcare provider may decide to offer a longer course of gentler treatments. Preprogrammed settings for different skin types ensure a correct energy output for your complexion.^1-3

1. <sub>Ellipse Frax 1940, 510(k) clearance (K192951), March 2020.
   2. Ellipse Ydun Frax 1550, 510(k) clearance (K180406), March 2018.
   3. Frax Pro User Manual, Data on File, 2020</sub>

How can the Frax Pro 1550 improve aging skin?

The Frax Pro™ laser rejuvenates* skin by delivering very small, controlled bursts of energy to the skin. The delivered energy stimulates the production of collagen, resurfacing the skin over time.¹ The laser is gently rolled across the skin over brief treatment sessions. The surface of the skin is left intact and there is low downtime associated with healing and recovery.^2-4

*Via skin resurfacing

1. <sub>Tidwell WJ, Green C, Jensen D, Ross EV. Clinical evaluation and in-vivo analysis of the performance of a fractional infrared 1550 nm laser system for skin rejuvenation. J Cosmet Laser Ther. 2018;20(6):1-4.
   Ellipse Frax 1940, 510(k) clearance (K192951), March 2020.
   3. Ellipse Ydun Frax 1550, 510(k) clearance (K180406), March 2018.
   4. Frax Pro User Manual, Data on File, 2020.</sub>

What can I expect?

1. Prior to your Frax Pro laser procedure, you and Dr. Muñoz will meet to discuss your treatment goals. Generally, the treatment procedure itself takes from 15 to 45 minutes, depending on the size of the treated area.³
2. Typically, you will be offered a course of 3 treatments, but this will vary according to your needs. If you have darker skin, Dr. Muñoz may decide to offer a longer course of gentler treatments. Preprogrammed settings for different skin types provide recommended energy output for your complexion.³
3. It is important to avoid tanning salons and self-tanning products before and during the treatment period. You will get maximum results if you use a normal moisturizing cream before and after treatment.³
4. After treatment, you should avoid sun exposure for 30 days and use sun protection (minimum SPF 30) at all times. And be sure to Dr. Muñoz know if you are prone to acne breakouts or cold sores.³
5. Talk to Dr. Muñoz about what you can expect with your individual treatment.

Contact Vista Dermatology for a consultation and see how a Frax Pro 1550 treatment can benefit you!

The post Frax Pro 1550 FAQ appeared first on Vista Dermatology.

Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) is a treatment which utilizes a patient’s own blood. Platelets are essential to promote tissue healing and new cell growth. PRP encourages collagen production, regenerates skin tissue and encourages cells to rejuvenate themselves. As a result, PRP softens fine lines and wrinkles, tightens the skin and improves tone and texture.

PRP is also effective for androgenetic alopecia (male and female pattern hair loss). We typically recommend once monthly x3 treatments, then repeat three months after the first series.

How is PRP administered?

Blood is drawn from the patient into a syringe. The collected blood is then spun in a centrifuge to separate its components. The resultant platelet rich plasma is then reinjected back into the skin.

How long does a PRP treatment take?

It only takes 30 minutes for PRP injections for hair loss on the scalp. It only takes one hour for microneedling with PRP for the face. This includes an additional 30 minutes for the blood to be drawn and spun in the centrifuge, and topical anesthesia to be applied.

Do PRP injections hurt?

Some mild discomfort may be felt while the PRP is being reinjected, usually a burning or tingling sensation. It only lasts a few minutes after the PRP injection. We make sure our patients are kept as comfortable as possible throughout the treatment, applying topical numbing cream and ice to aid with any discomfort.

When will I begin to see results from a PRP treatment?

Generally, patients notice tightening and a more even tone to their skin in a week or two after PRP injections. These results can continue to build for up to six months after treatment.

How long do results from PRP injections last?

Results from PRP injections are apparent for many years after treatment. However, results vary due to the patient’s natural variation in the quality of Platelet Rich Plasma as well as his or her particular lifestyle. Results from PRP injections can be extended with proper home skincare maintenance.

What areas can I treat with PRP injections?

For cosmetic applications, PRP is most popularly used to treat the face and scalp.

Is there any downtime associated with PRP?

There is no downtime associated PRP injections. After treatment, your skin may be re, however. This is normal and no cause for worry. Redness usually lasts from one to 24 hours. You may also have a little swelling in some areas. Healing time varies from patient to patient. It may take longer if PRP injections are paired with micro-needling.

How many PRP treatments will I need?

Results can be seen after one treatment, but the exact amount of treatments needed varies from patient to patient. Two to three treatments are typical.

Are there any side effects or possible risks to PRP injections?

PRP injections are safe for most individuals. There are very few contraindications. The most common side effects associated with PRP injections are mild to moderate swelling and redness.

Who is not a candidate for PRP injections?

During your consultation with Dr. Muñoz, an assessment will be made to ensure you are the right candidate for PRP injections. Patients with certain health conditions are not eligible, as are women who are pregnant.

Are you a candidate for a PRP treatment? Contact us for a consultation. We offer package discounts for both scalp PRP and microneedling with PRP for the face.

The post Platelet-Rich Plasma FAQ appeared first on Vista Dermatology.

Unlike other treatments, DiamondGlow^™ is customized for you — combining a precision diamond tip to match your skin’s needs, targeted SkinMedica^® Pro-Infusion Serums, and a perfectly curated, at-home SkinMedica^® skincare regimen to keep your glow going.

How often is a DiamondGlow treatment recommended?

We recommend one to two treatments per month to see continued improvement and glowing results. Dr. Muñoz will determine your personalized treatment plan.

How much does a treatment cost?

One treatment is $200 or you can get a package of three for $525 (a savings of $75).

Is this a brand new treatment or is it the same as Dermalinfusion?

DermalInfusion^® is now Allergan Aesthetics DiamondGlow^™ with advanced SkinMedica^® Pro-Infusion Serums and the same breakthrough skin resurfacing technology.

Is there any downtime after a treatment?

DiamondGlow^™ is a noninvasive treatment with minimal downtime, so you can return to your daily activities right after treatment.

Are there any savings for Allē members?

Receive 150 Allē points on DiamondGlow^™ treatments that can be used for future savings on DiamondGlow^™, SkinMedica^®, and other Allergan Aesthetics^™ in-office treatments/products.

To make an appointment for consultation, contact us.

The post DiamondGlow™ FAQ appeared first on Vista Dermatology.

Also known as acne inversa, hidradentis suppurative is a long-term skin disease that produces inflamed and swollen lumps. “Tunnels” connecting the lumps can also be present. It usually appears under the arms, beneath the breasts and the groin. They can be painful and break open, releasing pus.

What is it caused by?

Although the exact cause isn’t known, it can occur when hair follicles become blocked. It can also be related to hormones, genes and immune system disorders. Smoking and excess weight may also play a part. Women are more likely to develop it than men.

What are the complications of hidradenitis suppurativa?

• Scars and skin changes. When the wounds heal, scars and pits can still remain.
• Limited movement. Especially when the armpits or thighs are involved, both the sores and scar tissue can make moving foreshortened and/or painful.
• Infection. These sores are open wounds and, such such, are susceptible to getting infected.
• Obstruction of lymph nodes. Since the common areas for the disorder contain many lymph nodes, the scar tissue may block draining. This can result in swelling.
• Social embarrassment. Depending on the locations of the sores, the drainage and odor can be embarrassing, making the sufferer reluctant to be seen in public.

When should I see a doctor?

Early detection of hidradenitis suppurativa is critical for treatment. See your doctor if:

• You’re experiencing pain
• It doesn’t improve after a few week
• It returns within weeks of treatment
• It occurs in multiple locations
• It frequently flares up

How is it treated?

Although there is presently no cure for hidradenitis suppurativa, several treatment options are available. Your dermatologist will recommend the right one for you, depending on how severe the condition is.

• In pill or cream form, antibiotics will help to fight infection.
• Corticosteroids are taken in pill form. Your doctor may give you a corticosteroid injection to help reduce pain and swelling.
• Biologics are medicines that are administered as injections or infusions. Prescribed if you have multiple HS wounds or lesions.
• Surgery. You may require surgery if lesions must be drained or removed.

Vista Dermatology’s Dr. Karla Muñoz says, “While it’s not presently curable, there are many treatments to minimize the effects and make you more comfortable.”

If you suspect you have hidradenitis suppurativa, contact us for an appointment.

The post Hidradenitis Suppurativa FAQ appeared first on Vista Dermatology.

What are broad-spectrum sunscreens?

The two types of ultraviolet (UV) rays that are emitted by the sun are UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays are responsible for premature skin aging, including wrinkling and age spots. UVB rays cause sunburn. Both are capable of causing skin cancer. Your best bet for all-around protection is to look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen, which protects you from both types of rays.

What doe SPF stand for? 

SPF stands for “sun protection factor,” a measurement of just how much a sunscreen will protect you from UVB rays. That’s why you should look for a sunscreen with a rating of SPF 30 or higher. SPF 30 protects you from 97 percent of these rays.

What does UPF stand for?

UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) is a ranking used for photoprotective clothing and hats. It’s analogous to the SPF rating in sunscreen. For example, a UPF rating of 25 means that the clothing allows 1/25 (four percent) of UV rays to penetrate the fabric, 50 (1/50) lets in two percent, and so on.

What’s the difference between chemical and mineral sunscreens?

The short answer is that chemical sunscreens contain man-made ingredients such as oxybenzone and avobenzone, while mineral sunscreens use naturally occurring ingredients such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. Chemical sunscreens are absorbed into the skin and a resulting chemical reaction dissipates the sun’s rays. Mineral sunscreens stay on top of the skin and simply deflect UV rays. While chemical sunscreens can appear invisible, mineral sunscreens give that white, slathered-on appearance because they remain on the skin’s surface. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends wearing SPF 30 daily.

Can you use sunscreen on babies?

The FDA recommends not using sunscreen on babies younger than six months. The reason is that their skin is still immature and more susceptible to irritation. The best thing to do is to keep them covered up and shaded. For children older than six months, mineral sunscreen is definitely recommended for the same reason.

What is nicotinamide?

Also known as niacinamide, this is a supplement that may protect against certain types of skin cancers. Although further studies are needed, preliminary evidence suggests that it may prevent lesions in people with sun-damaged skin. It also may offer some UV ray protection, but the use of sunscreen is still recommended.

What is Heliocare?

Heliocare is derived from the Polypodium leucotomos fern (native to Central and South America) that has developed its own protection against free radicals in the environment. It’s available as a nutritional antioxidant supplement that is taken once daily.

What’s the best advice for sun protection?

Dr. Karla Muñoz of Vista Dermatology says, “The best way to protect yourself from the sun is to just stay out of it, but that doesn’t mean you can forego sunscreen. If you must be outside, it’s best to be well-protected, seek out shade and avoid peak sun hours.”

If you have previous skin damage from the sun and would like recommendations on the best treatments or would like to schedule a thorough, full skin exam, contact us.

The post Sun Protection FAQ appeared first on Vista Dermatology.

Take good care of your skin — so that your skin can keep taking good care of you.

Skin protects your body in many ways

Your skin acts as a barrier to protect your body from invasion by bacteria and other possible environmental hazards that can be dangerous to your health. It provides other services, too. It contains nerve endings that let you feel when an object is too hot or sharp so that you can quickly pull away.

Sweat glands and tiny blood vessels in your skin help to control your body temperature. And cells in your skin turn sunlight into vitamin D, which is essential for healthy bones.

Skin can also alert you to a health problem

A red, itchy rash might signal allergies or infections, and a red “butterfly” rash on your face might be a sign of lupus. A yellow tint might indicate liver disease. Dark or unusual moles might be warning signs of skin cancer. Be mindful for unexpected changes to your skin and talk with your doctor if you have concerns.

Your skin can become too dry if you don’t drink enough fluids or spend too much time in sunny or dry conditions. To treat dry skin, use moisturizing creams or lotions, and use warm (instead of hot) water when you bathe and wash your hands. You can also try using a humidifier to make the air in your home less dry.

The sun can damage your skin as well. Sunlight contains ultraviolet (UV) light that causes sunburn and makes your skin age faster, leading to more wrinkles as you get older. There’s also a strong link between UV exposure and skin cancer. Protect your skin from the sun by wearing hats and other protective clothing. Use sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30, and restrict your time in the sun during the late morning and early afternoon hours, when sunlight is strongest.

What’s living on your skin?

Skin researchers are studying the skin’s microbiome — the bacteria and other microscopic organisms that live on your skin. Some of these microbes can be helpful. Evidence suggests that they boost the body’s infection-fighting immune system and help keep you healthy. Certain microbes, however, are associated with skin diseases. The scientists are trying to find ways to support healthy skin microbes while reducing the harmful ones.

Vista Dermatology’s Dr. Karla Muñoz says, “Foods such as fish, eggs, milk and fortified orange juice are good sources of vitamin D. You may also want to take a vitamin D 800 IU supplement daily.”

If you have any questions or concerns about your skin’s condition, contact Vista Dermatology for an appointment today.

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Remember these skincare tips:

• Wash up. Bathe in warm — not hot — water. Use mild cleansers that don’t irritate. Wash gently; don’t scrub.
• Avoid sun damage. Avoid intense sun exposure, use sunscreen, and wear protective clothing.
• Never use tanning beds or sunlamps. They emit the same harmful UV radiation as the sun.
• Keep your skin hydrated. Drink plenty of water, and use gentle moisturizers, lotions, or creams.
• Don’t stress out. Stress can harm your skin and other body systems.
• Get enough sleep. Experts recommend about nine hours a night for teens and seven to eight hours for adults.
• Eat right. A diet rich in vitamins and nutrients benefits your skin.
• Speak up. Talk to your doctor if you notice any odd changes to your skin, like a rash or mole that changes size or color.

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The post Healthy skin is important appeared first on Vista Dermatology.

This common skin formation may cause some concern because of its tendency to look like a pre-cancerous skin growth or skin cancer. Actually, these growths are benign.

Who gets it?

Since it usually affects people who are middle-aged or older, seborrheic keratosis also goes by other names. Vista Dermatology’s Dr. Karla Muñoz says, “There are many nicknames for these common growths. I often call them wisdom spots, birthday gifts, or barnacles on the ship of life.”

It affects people of all skin types. It may appear smaller and around the eyes. It also runs in the family. Some women develop it when pregnant or after hormone replacement therapy.

What does it look like?

Seborrheic keratosis originates as a small bump. They gradually get thicker and become wartlike and waxy. Their color can range from brown to black and sizes range from less than half an inch to two inches. It commonly appears on the back, stomach, scalp, face and neck or any other part of the body except for palms and the soles of the foot.

What are the symptoms? 

It can be itchy, but doesn’t usually cause pain.

How is it treated?

Dr. Muñoz says, “We want to make sure that it’s a seborrheic keratosis and not skin cancer. It also needs to be removed when it gets caught on clothing or if it’s embarrassing and unsightly.”

Seborrheic keratosis is typically removed by cryotherapy (freezing and destroying the growth) or electrodessication, a minor in-office procedure.

“Don’t try to self-diagnose or remove skin growths yourself,” adds Dr. Muñoz. “Even if you think a growth is benign, have it checked by a professional, especially if it’s quickly changed shape or color.”

If you are seeing suspicious growths on your skin, make an appointment with Vista Dermatology for professional examination and treatment.

The post Seborrheic Keratosis FAQ appeared first on Vista Dermatology.