It stands out for its precision, yet its true impact lies in its ability to address common skin concerns due to sun damage and aging for all backgrounds and skin tones.

Fraxel® treatment improves tone, texture and radiance for aging, sun-damaged or scarred skin. It is ideal is for those who want to look younger without dramatic changes or extended downtime.

Have some questions about the treatment? Check out this FAQ.

What conditions can the Fraxel FTX treat?

It has shown to smooth fine lines, fade acne scars, even out skin tone and reverse sun damage.

How does it work?

Unlike other lasers that remove the top layer of skin, the Fraxel FTX stimulates healing under the surface, causing the body’s natural repair process to begin.

How many sessions are needed?

Even one session will show noticeable improvement, but three to five sessions are usually recommended.

What areas can it treat?

The Fraxel FTX is versatile. It works not only on the face but also on the neck, chest, hands and other areas.

Is there any pain involved?

The Fraxel FTX utilizes cooling technology that minimizes discomfort, resulting in less swelling and faster healing.

What about downtime?

The skin will be red for three to five days, followed by light peeling, but patients have reported seeing positive changes in the first week. It will continue to improve over months as new collagen is created.

Patients can usually get back to work in about a week.

The post Fraxel FTX appeared first on Vista Dermatology.

Acne is an inflammatory disorder of the skin, which has sebaceous (oil) glands that connects to the hair follicle, which contains a fine hair. In healthy skin, the sebaceous glands make sebum that empties onto the skin surface through the pore, which is an opening in the follicle.

Keratinocytes, a type of skin cell, line the follicle. Normally, as the body sheds skin cells, the keratinocytes rise to the surface of the skin. When someone has acne, the hair, sebum, and keratinocytes stick together inside the pore. This prevents the keratinocytes from shedding and keeps the sebum from reaching the surface of the skin. The mixture of oil and cells allows bacteria that normally live on the skin to grow in the plugged follicles and cause inflammation —swelling, redness, heat, and pain. When the wall of the plugged follicle breaks down, it spills the bacteria, skin cells, and sebum into nearby skin, creating lesions or pimples.

For most people, acne tends to go away by the time they reach their thirties, but some people in their forties and fifties continue to have this skin problem.

Who Gets Acne?

People of all races and ages get acne, but it is most common in teens and young adults. When acne appears during the teenage years, it is more common in males. Acne can continue into adulthood, and when it does, it is more common in women.

Types of Acne

Acne causes several types of lesions, or pimples. Doctors refer to enlarged or plugged hair follicles as comedones. Types of acne include:

• Whiteheads: Plugged hair follicles that stay beneath the skin and produce a white bump.
• Blackheads: Plugged follicles that reach the surface of the skin and open up. They look black on the skin surface because the air discolors the sebum, not because they are dirty.
• Papules: Inflamed lesions that usually appear as small, pink bumps on the skin and can be tender to the touch.
• Pustules or pimples: Papules topped by white or yellow pus-filled lesions that may be red at the base.
• Nodules: Large, painful solid lesions that are lodged deep within the skin.
• Severe nodular acne (sometimes called cystic acne): Deep, painful, pus-filled lesions.

The following factors may increase a person’s risk for developing acne:

• Hormones. An increase in androgens, which are male sex hormones, may lead to acne. These increase in both boys and girls normally during puberty and cause the sebaceous glands to enlarge and make more sebum. Hormonal changes related to pregnancy can also cause acne.
• Family history. Researchers believe that you may be more likely to get acne if your parents had acne.
• Medications. Certain medications, such as medications that contain hormones, corticosteroids, and lithium, can cause acne.
• Age. People of all ages can get acne, but it is more common in teens.

Acne Treatment Options

Topical Medications

• Benzoyl peroxide: Kills acne-causing bacteria.
• Salicylic acid: Exfoliates and reduces inflammation.
• Retinoids: Regulate oil production and cell turnover.
• Antibiotics: Reduce bacterial overgrowth.

Oral Medications

• Antibiotics: For moderate to severe acne.
• Hormonal therapy: For women with hormonal imbalances causing acne.
• Isotretinoin: A strong retinoid for severe, resistant acne.

Procedures

• Chemical peels: Exfoliate and remove the top layer of skin.
• Extractions: Manually remove blackheads and whiteheads.
• Laser therapy: Targets acne-causing bacteria and reduces inflammation.
• Microneedling: Creates tiny punctures in the skin to stimulate collagen production and improve scarring.

Lifestyle Changes

• Cleanse your face regularly: Use a gentle cleanser twice daily.
• Wear sunscreen: Sun damage can aggravate acne.
• Manage stress: Stress can increase oil production and worsen acne.
• Eat a healthy diet: Limit processed foods, sugary drinks, and dairy products.

Other Considerations

• Consult a dermatologist: A dermatologist can diagnose your acne and recommend the best treatment options.
• Be patient: Acne treatment can take time to show results.
• Follow instructions carefully: Use medications and follow procedures as directed.
• Avoid over-the-counter products without consulting a doctor: Some products can irritate the skin and worsen acne.

Dr. Muñoz recommends Accutane, also known as isotretinoin. Approved by the FDA in 1982, it is a powerful oral medication used to treat severe acne. It is a retinoid, which means it works by regulating the production of oil in the skin and reducing inflammation.

How Accutane Works

Reduces oil production in the skin, prevents the formation of new acne lesions, and reduces inflammation.

Benefits

• Effective for severe acne that has not responded to other treatments
• Can provide long-term acne clearance
• May improve skin texture and appearance
• Lower risk of scarring compared to other acne treatments

If your acne is not responding to the usual treatments, find out if is right for you! Contact Vista Dermatology today.

The post Types of Acne and Treatment appeared first on Vista Dermatology.

Many nail changes are normal and are nothing to be worried about. But sometimes changes in the way they look and grow can be a sign of disease. Fingernails are actually specialized skin cells. They’re made of keratin, a protein also found in your hair and skin.

Your nails protect the ends of your fingers and toes. They also help you grip objects and pick off small things. It would be harder to turn the pages of a book or pick up a thread without fingernails.

The part of the nail you can see is called the nail plate. Nails grow from a region at the base of the nail under the skin called the nail matrix. Here, new nail cells are made and packed together. Older nail cells are then pushed to the surface of the fingertip.

Possible concerns

Certain things can affect fingernail growth. A serious illness or fever can halt the process. The interruption can cause indentations that run horizontally across nails. These are called Beau’s lines. They can also result from injury to the nail, some vitamin deficiencies, and chemotherapy.

Tiny pits in the nail can also be a sign of disease. It’s common among people who have psoriasis. Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that causes red, scaly patches of skin. Nail pitting is also linked to an autoimmune condition that causes hair loss, called alopecia areata.

If your nails start to scoop inward like a spoon, you may not be getting enough iron. Spoon-shaped nails, or koilonychia, can be a sign of iron-deficiency anemia. Because of a lack of iron, your body can’t make enough of the molecule that red blood cells need to carry oxygen.

Nail clubbing, where the nail tips enlarge and curve around the tip, is another nail problem. It could be a harmless trait that runs in your family. But it’s also linked to lung and heart problems.

Sudden changes

Changes in nail color are common. Yellow nails are often caused by nail fungus. In some cases, they can point to something more serious, such as lung disease.

If you notice that your nails have become mostly white, it may just be a sign of aging. But sometimes it’s due to serious conditions like liver and kidney disease or diabetes.

Dark streaks running down the length of the nail that appear suddenly should be checked to rule out skin cancer. Certain infections, especially of the heart, can cause red streaks to appear under the nails.

Talk with Dr. Muñoz if your nails start to look abnormal. Dermatologists are specialists in nail concerns. Call us at (210) 698-0500.

Information provided by the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

The post What can your fingernails tell you about your health? appeared first on Vista Dermatology.

This customized treatment is designed to target pigmentation, acne, and aging. It’s a painless, effective treatment available only through authorized clinicians such as Dr. Muñoz.

Here are some questions you may have about the procedure:

I found a VI Peel product online. Can I buy it and apply it myself?

No! VI Peel is a medical in-office treatment and needs to be applied by a trained VI provider. If you find a VI Peel product for sale online, it is probably through an unauthorized retailer that is not a credible VI Peel source, and therefore may not be safe to use.

What skincare products should I use after getting a VI Peel to maintain my results?

The peel kit comes with a generous size sunscreen, cleanser and moisturizer for you to take home.

Can I get a VI Peel if I have eczema?

VI Peel treatments are typically not recommended for patients with Eczema.

How many peels do I need to start seeing results?

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.

Does the treatment burn?

No. 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.

It’s my first night after treatment and I’m itchy. What should I do?

It is normal to experience itching on the first night of your VI Peel treatment. You may apply the Post Treatment Repair anti-itch Cream to your skin throughout the night. Avoid scratching!

When can I wear makeup after a VI Peel?

After the VI Peel solution is applied to the skin, no makeup or any topical products can be applied for the first four hours. You can apply makeup after you’ve completed the “Four Hour Post-Treatment” steps.

When can I get my next facial, waxing, etc.?

Most treatments are safe for your skin after four weeks, but we’ll advise you on exact time frames.

When can I shave?

You can shave once the peeling process has completed (About seven days after you receive your VI Peel treatment).

When can I go into the sun?

You want to avoid direct and extreme sun exposure for the first seven days. Make sure you’re applying your VI Derm SPF 50 Sunscreen (provided in your Aftercare Kit) every morning. Also note that lifestyle sun exposure, like running errands, going for a walk, walking your dog, grabbing coffee, and driving, are all fine, provided you are following the usual precautions such as protecting your skin from the sun by wearing SPF and a hat.

Find out if the VI Peel treatment is right for you! Contact us at (210) 698-0500 for a consultation.

Ask us about ToxBooster!

Dr. Muñoz will enhance your VI Peel by treating you with Botox immediately after. Known as ToxBooster, this treatment works together in harmony. VI Peel tales care of the skin conditions that Botox doesn’t address, while Botox does the same!

The post VI Peel FAQ appeared first on Vista Dermatology.

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.

Here are some commonly asked questions about the treatment.

What is Sofwave™?

Starting in our mid-20s, collagen and elastin start to break down, causing our skin to wrinkle. Sofwave is a new, clinically proven, non-invasive approach to rebuilding that essential collagen. Sofwave is FDA cleared for lifting the eyebrow, submental tissue and neck, and for the reduction of fine lines and wrinkles.

How does Sofwave work?

Its unique, Synchronous Ultrasound Parallel Beam Technology (SUPERB™) generates heat at the right depth of 1.5mm in the mid-dermis. Additionally, there is an integrated cooling SofCool™ mechanism that protects the uppermost skin layer from burning. The impacted treatment zones stimulate a healing response, called neocollagenesis, which increases and regenerates the collagen in the skin, leading to the reduction in fine lines and wrinkles.

Who is a good candidate for Sofwave?

Those in their 30 and older who have mild to moderate skin aging. The potential patient should have some degree of fine lines and wrinkles.

Can Sofwave replace a surgical procedure?

Sofwave is a great alternative for those who are not ready to take that extra step and undergo plastic surgery.

The results would be more dramatic in a surgical procedure, but there are risks involved, including undergoing anesthesia and the occurrence of scar tissue.

How does Sofwave stimulate the growth of collagen?

Collagen is a natural protein that gives skin its youthfulness by keeping toned. As we age, collagen breaks down, and the result is sagging skin. Sofwave’s SUPERB™ technology generates heat at a depth in the mid-dermis to promote new collagen growth.

How does Sofwave differ from other cosmetic procedures?

Today there are various invasive surgical options designed to treat facial lines and wrinkles, yet, the need for non-invasive aesthetic treatments with proven efficacy, safety, and minimal downtime are still unfulfilled. The more aggressive options can cause damage to the upper skin, which in turn, requires a long healing period and considerable downtime. Also, there is a higher risk of side effects, including discoloration and discomfort.

Sofwave’s unique technology enables the controlled delivery of energy, in terms of amount and location, while protecting the skin surface with an integrated cooling mechanism, without the interruption to your daily routine.

What does the treatment feel like?

As the ultrasound energy is delivered, patients may feel warmness of the skin, which can be resolved by applying a topical anesthetic cream just before the treatment. Following treatment, there are no uncomfortable sensations and there is no need to apply special care to the skin. Patients may resume their daily activities quickly post treatment.

How long does a treatment take?

The treatment itself is fast, taking approximately 30 to 40 minutes for the full face and neck region.

How many treatments will it take?

Most patients only need one. However, some may benefit from an additional treatment, depending on their body’s physiological response to the first treatment.

How long does it take to see results?

Immediate results can be seen as soon as one week following the treatment. However, the collagen regeneration process can sometimes take up to 12 weeks, so patients are expected to see ongoing improvements three months after their treatment.

Looking for a way to get rid of those pesky lines and wrinkles? Find out if Sofwave is right for you! Contact Vista Dermatology today.

The post Sofwave 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.