Vista Dermatology performs both treatments and will be able to help you determine which one will be most effective.

They’re both exfoliating processes. They remove layers of dead skin, making your face appear more evenly toned and smooth. Chemical peels are effective for more serious skin conditions, while microdermabrasion is a quick way to give your skin a healthy glow.

Microdermabrasion and Chemical Peels

Vista Dermatology offers the Diamondglow^™ microdermabrasion treatment. Unlike traditional wet facial treatments, which rely on chemical exfoliation to treat skin at surface level, DiamondGlow’s patented recessed diamond tip wand delivers a next-level resurfacing treatment that deeply cleans and rejuvenates the skin. It delivers professional-grade SkinMedica serums directly into the skin at the exact moment of exfoliation to maximize absorption.

How Many Treatments Are Needed?

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

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

Chemical Peels

Chemical Peels are classified based on how deeply they penetrate the skin layers and include superficial, medium-depth and deep peels. The deeper the penetration the greater the overall exfoliation and cellular regeneration. Vista Dermatology offers the VI Peel system.

The depth of the peel is determined by several factors that include acid type(s), percent concentration of the acid(s), the pH of the solution and time on the skin.

There are many peels on the market that only address surface issues. Deep peels are available, but downtime exists and can be significant. For true correction, VI Peel offers six medium-depth peel formulations that make the most impact with the least amount (if any) of downtime.

How Does VI Peel work?

Melanin creates the pigment of our skin and lives within our skin cells. When melanin is overproduced, the skin exhibits hyperpigmentation or spots. VI Peels focus on lifting and exfoliating those skin cells to allow our body to produce new cells that are healthier and less pigmented. The process of exfoliation also smooths the surface of our skin creating softer smoother texture.

Everyone’s skin is different, and the number of peels needed for desired results varies from person to person, and from skin condition to skin condition. Three to six treatments are usually required for optimum results.

You may experience slight warmness and tingling in the beginning, but this should quickly subside. Besides the warmness and tingling, VI Peel treatments are virtually painless.

After treatment, you’ll receive a peel kit that comes with a generous size sunscreen, cleanser and moisturizer for you to take home.

Get started loving your best skin! Contact us at (210) 698-0500 for a consultation.

The post Microdermabrasion and Chemical Peels: Which One Is Right For You? 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.

Psoriasis is a skin disease that causes red, scaly skin that may feel painful, swollen or hot. If you have psoriasis, you are more likely to acquire other conditions, including:

• Psoriatic arthritis, a condition that causes joint pain and swelling
• Cardiovascular problems, which affect the heart and blood circulation system
• Obesity
• High blood pressure
• Diabetes

Can anyone contract it?

Anyone can develop this skin disease, but it is more common in adults. Certain genes have been linked to psoriasis, so you are more likely to get it if someone else in your family has it. It is not contagious.

Are there different types?

Yes. Here are some examples:

• Plaque psoriasis, which causes patches of skin that are red at the base and covered by silvery scales.
• Guttate psoriasis, which causes small, drop-shaped lesions on your trunk, limbs, and scalp. This type of psoriasis is most often triggered by upper respiratory infections, such as strep throat.
• Pustular psoriasis, which causes pus-filled blisters.
• Inverse psoriasis, which causes smooth, red patches in folds of skin near the genitals, under the breasts or in the armpits. Rubbing and sweating can make this type of psoriasis worse.
• Erythrodermic psoriasis, which causes red and scaly skin over much of your body. This can be a reaction to a bad sunburn or taking certain medications, such as corticosteroids. It can also happen if you have a different type of psoriasis that is not well controlled. This type of psoriasis can be very serious, so if you have it, you should see a doctor immediately.

What are the symptoms of psoriasis?

It usually causes patches of thick, red skin with silvery scales that itch or feel sore. These patches can show up anywhere on your body, but they usually occur on the elbows, knees, legs, scalp, lower back, face, palms, and soles of your feet. They can also show up on your fingernails and toenails, genitals, and inside your mouth. You may find that your skin gets worse for a while, which is called a flare, and then it improves.

What is it caused by?

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease, which means that your body’s immune system — which protects you from diseases — starts overreacting and causing problems. If you have psoriasis, a type of white blood cells called the T cells become so active that they trigger other immune system responses, including swelling and fast turnover of skin cells.

Your skin cells grow deep in the skin and rise slowly to the surface. This is called cell turnover, and it usually takes about a month. If you have psoriasis, though, cell turnover can take only a few days. Your skin cells rise too fast and pile up on the surface, causing your skin to look red and scaly.

Some things may cause a flare, meaning your psoriasis becomes worse for a while, including:

• stress
• infection
• weather changes
• medications
• cuts, scratches or sunburns

Is there a test for psoriasis?

Psoriasis can be hard to diagnose because it can look like other skin diseases. Your doctor may look at a small sample of your skin under a microscope to see if psoriasis is causing your skin condition.

How is it treated?

There are several different types of treatment for psoriasis. We may recommend that you try one of these or a combination of them:

• Topical treatment, which means putting creams on your skin.
• Light therapy, which involves a doctor shining an ultraviolet light on your skin or getting more sunlight. It’s important that a doctor controls the amount of light you are getting from this therapy, because too much ultraviolet light may make your psoriasis worse.
• Systemic treatment, which can include taking prescription medicines or getting shots of medicine.
• Joining a support group may help you to cope with this disease.

How can you live with this condition?

Dr. Muñoz says, “This is an exciting time for people with psoriasis. Several groundbreaking treatments have been developed over the last 5-10 years. Biologics are becoming smarter, more efficacious and better targeted with less side effects.”

For treatment of psoriasis or other skin conditions, contact us. Telemedicine appointments are also available.

The post Facts About Psoriasis 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.

Winter itch, also known as pruritus hiemalis, is a type of dermatitis that can affect you most during cold weather. It can affect any part of the body (except the hands, face, feet and scalp), but it is most common on the legs.

Asteatotic eczema is another form of winter itch, and it has similar symptoms.

What are the symptoms?

Since the skin is rough, dry and irritated, constant scratching is a primary symptom, leading to even rougher skin and even visible scratch marks. Without treatment, these symptoms can become even more intense.

It is most noticeable at night and can be especially irritating when you’re changing your clothes.

What causes it?

Although its cause is not completely known, cold and dry weather seems to be a factor (hence the name), as well as certain types of coarse clothing such as wool.

Heat can also be a culprit, as wintertime heating also reduces the moisture in your home.

When it’s cold outside, some people (especially those with poor circulation) use portable heaters to keep body parts warm. “Keep space heaters at a distance rather than directly on your lower legs,” advises Vista Dermatology’s Dr. Karla Muñoz.

Who gets it?

Both men and women can be afflicted, particularly older people with drier skin. Children and adolescents seldom are affected, however.

How is it treated?

Less severe symptoms of winter itch can be treated at home, with the overall goal being to alleviate discomfort and stop the scratching.

Try taking a warm bath with a quarter-cup of baking soda blended into it before bedtime. It will help with the itch and give the added benefit of relaxing you for sleep. Don’t forget to moisturize.

Dr. Munoz adds, “Reduce the temperature and frequency of your hot showers. Pat dry with a towel, then apply a ceramide-based over-the-counter cream within a few minutes of getting out of the shower. I also think a water softener helps if you are prone to dry, itchy skin. ”

“Use an over-the-counter hydrocortisone 1% cream in addition to your moisturizer,” she recommends. “Also, try to wear 100% cotton fabrics and switch to a fragrance-free laundry detergent.”

If your symptoms (and scratching) persist or worsen, make an appointment with Dr. Muñoz for further professional treatment.

The post Winter Itch (and How to Treat It) appeared first on Vista Dermatology.

Acne is a disorder that affects the skin’s oil glands and hair follicles. Pores are connected to these oil glands. These glands make an oily substance called sebum. The pores connect to the glands by a canal called a follicle. Inside the follicles, oil carries dead skin cells to the surface of the skin. A thin hair also grows through the follicle and out to the skin.

Sometimes the hair, sebum and skin cells all clump together to form a plug. The bacteria in the plug causes swelling. Then, when the plug starts to break down, a pimple can grow.

Hormonal acne in female adults usually occurs around the jaw line and the lower cheeks.

How many types of hormonal acne are there?

The most common types are:

• Whiteheads: pimples under the surface of the skin.
• Blackheads: pimples that rise to the skin’s surface and look black (the black color is not from dirt).
• Papules: small pink bumps that can be tender to the touch.
• Pustules: pimples that are red at the bottom and have pus on top.
• Nodules: large, painful, solid pimples that are deep in the skin.
• Cysts: deep, painful, pus-filled pimples that can cause scars.

What causes hormonal acne?

Although it can occur during puberty, when your hormones are in flux, it can happen to women of any age for any condition that causes a hormone imbalance.

• menstruation
• menopause
• polycystic ovary syndrome
• menopause

How is it treated?

There are several medications used to treat hormonal acne. “Spironolactone is a highly effective and inexpensive prescription pill that works as a magic bullet for hormonal acne in women,” says Vista Dermatology’s Dr. Karla Muñoz.

There are also ways for you to care for your skin.

• Clean your skin gently. Use a mild cleanser in the morning, evening, and after heavy workouts.
• Stay out of the sun. Many acne medications can make it more likely to get a sunburn. And too much sun exposure a lot can also make the skin wrinkle and raise the risk of skin cancer.
• Choose makeup carefully. All makeup should be oil-free. Look for the word “noncomedogenic” on the label. This means that the makeup will not clog your pores.
• Shampoo your hair regularly. If your hair is oily, you may want to shampoo daily.

“Try not to pick at or overscrub your skin, as this will only increase inflammation and redness,” advises Dr. Muñoz. “Following a low ketogenic diet has helped some of my patients with hormonal acne.”

“If you are planning pregnancy or are pregnant, I recommend using a glycolic acid cleanser and prescription topicals that do not contain retinoids,” she adds.

Contact us

Do you need treatment for hormonal acne or various other skin conditions? Call Vista Dermatology at (210) 698-0500 for an appointment.

The post Hormonal Acne in Women: Causes and Treatment appeared first on Vista Dermatology.