Dr. Joel Schlessinger answers frequently asked questions about the risks of indoor tanning

Tuesday, September 16th, 2014

 Indoor tanning involves using a tanning bed or booth that emits ultraviolet radiation in order to achieve a cosmetic tan. In recent years, the FDA and the American Academy of Dermatology have found more and more links between indoor tanning and an increased risk of serious health issues like skin cancer. In his latest SlideShare presentation, Dr. Joel Schlessinger answers frequently asked questions about the health risks of indoor tanning.

There are many misconceptions about indoor tanning, says Dr. Joel Schlessinger.

In Western culture, bronzed skin has come to be associated with health and vitality. However, there is nothing healthy about a tan. Tanned skin, whether it is from the sun or an indoor tanning bed, is no different than a sunburn. It means that your skin has sustained cellular damage.

The tanning industry would have you believe that using tanning beds is somehow safer than spending time in the sun. In reality, a tanning bed’s ultraviolet emissions are two to three times stronger than normal sunlight and particularly effective in causing skin cancer!

Dr. Joel Schlessinger explains the health issues that can arise from indoor tanning.

Even those who have reported using tanning beds according to industry guidelines have experienced serious health issues. Skin cancer is the number one concern of those who are regularly exposed to natural and artificial UV radiation. Squamous cell carcinoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, has been linked to indoor tanning, and the risk of developing melanoma increases 75% if regular tanning sessions occur before the age of 35.

In addition, those who tan frequently are more likely to experience premature signs of aging such as fine lines, wrinkles and dark spots. Repeated UV radiation exposure may weaken the immune system, leaving you more susceptible to all disease. Tanning can also cause irreversible damage to the eyes, and exposure to contagious viruses and fungi often occurs due to unsanitary tanning bed surfaces.

Dr. Joel Schlessinger reminds us that the only safe tan comes from topical treatments.

Sunless self-tanners are topical products that allow you to build a temporary tan safely over time, and they are the only tanning solution advocated by dermatologists like Dr. Schlessinger. For natural, streak-free color, try jane iredale Tantasia Self Tanner & Bronzer. The formula can be applied daily or weekly for subtle, customizable color. TanTowel Classics are also a convenient way to get a tan, even on the go. These handy towelettes offer gentle exfoliation for smoother, more even application and healthier skin.

Remember, a self-tanner never stands in for a sunscreen. You’ll still need daily SPF protection. Dr. Schlessinger recommends EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 Broad Spectrum Sunscreen for the face and EltaMD UV Sport Water Resistant Broad Spectrum SPF 50 for the body. These gentle formulas won’t clog pores, exacerbate acne or irritate sensitive skin, and they offer superior protection against harmful UVA and UVB rays.

Do you have a question about the risks of indoor tanning? Let us know in the comments section.

Dr. Joel Schlessinger answers frequently asked questions about warts

Friday, July 11th, 2014

Warts are a common skin growth caused by a viral infection, usually the human papillomavirus. Passed from person to person through contact, they’re rarely painful or harmful, however, many patients opt to remove warts since they are contagious and often unsightly. In his latest SlideShare presentation, Dr. Schlessinger discusses different types of warts, as well as removal and treatment options.

Warts are not just a childhood phenomenon, says Dr. Joel Schlessinger.

Warts usually appear as small, round, pink or flesh-colored growths. They are characterized by small, grainy bumps and may feature a pattern of black dots. These dots look like seeds, but they are actually small, clotted blood vessels.
Though they may be slightly more common in children, people young and old can develop warts from either direct or indirect contact with infected individuals. Contact could include sharing shoes, towels and clothing with others. In may take months or even years for a wart to develop after first contact with the virus.

Dr. Joel Schlessinger talks about the types of warts he treats most frequently at Skin Specialists P.C.

Common warts usually appear on the hands, and they can sometimes be spread to other parts of the body through continuous contact. Children, for example, often transfer warts from the hands to the face through repeated touch and nail-biting. Plantar warts occur on the bottoms of the feet (which is also known as the plantar surface), and are very similar in appearance to common warts.

Flat warts appear in clusters as small white or flesh-colored growths with flat tops in areas that are shaved frequently, like the face and legs. Shaving can cause flat warts to spread rapidly. Molluscum contagiosum is another highly contagious wart that is distinguished by a dimple in the center. It thrives in warm moist climates and can be easily spread to other parts of the body and to other individuals through contact.

Genital warts are one of the most common types of sexually-transmitted infections. Women are slightly more susceptible than men to contract genital warts, and a vaccine has been developed to promote prevention.

Dr. Schlessinger offers many methods when it comes to wart removal.

There are countless treatments available for wart removal on the market today, but none can boast a 100% success rate. Warts can be stubborn and there is always a chance they will redevelop after treatment. Dr. Schlessinger strongly recommends consulting your physician before attempting to treat a suspected wart with home remedies or over-the-counter treatments. These treatments often don’t work and could even make the wart larger than before.

The treatments that Dr. Schlessinger offers at his Omaha clinic have a proven 50-75% success rate. He prefers to uses an immune reactant to treat warts. This involves applying a diluted poison to the wart over time. The immune reactant creates an immune response that wards off the wart-causing virus, and after a short series of sessions, it usually disappears altogether. Other treatment options include oral supplements, laser removal, cryotherapy, chemical peels, burning and cutting, all of which are option that Dr. Schlessinger uses for his treatments to find the best approach.

For post-wart-removal scarring concerns, choose products personally selected by Dr. Joel Schlessinger.

Scarring is a concern for many patients after undergoing a wart removal procedure and something that Dr. Schlessinger tries to avoid with his treatments. Sometimes this is the result of a previous treatment at another provider, but we do offer options to treat this at our clinic and at LovelySkin.com. At LovelySkin.com, you’ll find a wide range of products for treating scars that come personally recommended by Dr. Schlessinger. Visit http://www.LovelySkin.com/Scars to learn more about over-the-counter topical care for your post-removal routine.

Do you have a question for Dr. Joel Schlessinger about warts and their removal? Let us know in the comments section.

Dr. Joel Schlessinger answers frequently asked questions about Perlane and other fillers

Wednesday, July 2nd, 2014

Perlane is an injectable filler made from FDA-approved hyaluronic acid. It is injected beneath the skin’s surface to treat wrinkles and folds and to add youthful volume. In his latest SlideShare presentation, Dr. Joel Schlessinger discusses Perlane and similar fillers like Restylane, Belotero, JUVEDERM XC and JUVEDERM VOLUMA.

Dr. Joel Schlessinger explains hyaluronic acid and its importance for skin health.

Hyaluronic acid is a substance that naturally occurs in the body. It is found in the joints, eyes and other areas, but the skin cells account for fifty percent of the body’s supply. In the skin, it allows the complexion’s collagen to remain hydrated and nourished. With a sufficient supply of hyaluronic acid, skin stays firm and moisturized.

As we age, we gradually lose the amount of hyaluronic acid our skin needs to maintain its structure and elasticity. Our complexion grows dry and deflated, and fine lines and wrinkles become more visible. By introducing a hyaluronic acid filler like Perlane under the skin, you can replenish some of the hyaluronic acid you need to regain elasticity and fill in folds and creases.

Results will vary depending on the individual, says Dr. Joel Schlessinger.

Perlane and other fillers can be used to treat most areas of the face. Perlane in particular nicely fills in lines on the upper and lower lip. It performs well on even deep creases and it can be used in place of collagen implants to volumize the lips.

Dr. Joel Schlessinger and his staff at Skin Specialists of Omaha will help you decide on a course of treatment based on your personal goals. The course of treatment may involve just one filler injection, a series of injections or combining fillers with other procedures such as Botox. It’s important to remember that filler results will not appear overnight.

Call Dr. Joel Schlessinger at Skin Specialist’s of Omaha about your Perlane procedure.

Always choose a physician who puts your personal needs and safety first. Dr. Schlessinger is an expert when it comes to fillers such as Perlane, and he performs all of his own injections. His proven track record for success and patient satisfaction rate have consistently earned him Best Cosmetic Surgeon in Omaha, Nebraska.

Do you have a question for Dr. Schlessinger about Perlane and other fillers? Let us know in the comment section.

Dr. Joel Schlessinger answers frequently asked questions about LATISSE

Monday, June 16th, 2014

As we grow older, our eyelashes have the tendency to become thinner, lighter and more brittle. If you’re tired of gluing on false lashes, there’s hope in the prescription eyelash enhancement treatment, LATISSE. In his latest SlideShare presentation, Dr. Joel Schlessinger explains the benefits of trying LATISSE to achieve the luxurious lashes you’ve always wanted.

Dr. Joel Schlessinger prescribes LATISSE to his patients who want longer, fuller lashes.

LATISSE contains the active ingredient, bimatoprost, which is believed to lengthen the growth phase of lashes and keep them from falling out as quickly as they normally might. The result is longer, stronger, fuller lashes. You can even use LATISSE on sparse, thinning eyebrows. Dr. Joel Schlessinger’s patients have achieved great results over a period of time. In fact, in some cases, patients have even discontinued LATISSE because their lash length exceeded expectations. Patients have also seen improvement in the skin conditions vitiligo and alopecia areata while using LATISSE, and Dr. Joel Schlessinger looks forward to researching its additional benefits.

LATISSE is easy to use and simple to incorporate into your evening skin care regimen. Just apply it with a provided applicator as the final step in your routine after all other treatments, serums and moisturizer. Side effects are rare, but may include mild redness and itching. Patients with blue eyes should be particularly cautious when using LATISSE, as there is a small risk that blue eyes could become brown or discolored with incorrect application over time.

Non-prescription LATISSE alternatives, selected by Dr. Joel Schlessinger, are available on LovelySkin.com.

If you’re not quite ready to request a prescription for LATISSE from your physician, there are many alternative eyelash enhancement products available on LovelySkin.com. Dr. Joel Schlessinger also personally recommends these products for maintaining your LATISSE results between or after prescriptions.

RevitaLash Advanced Eyelash Conditioner contains pharmaceutical-grade peptides, biotin and botanical extracts to promote long, strong, thick lashes. Obagi ELASTILash is a top-rated formula fortified with peptides and glycerin to stop lashes from becoming brittle and falling out. Both are ideal for making LATISSE results last. Peter Thomas Roth Lashes to Die For Turbo features revolutionary Tri-Phase Lash Complex to target the lash during all three stages of growth, and Jan Marini Eyelash Conditioner prevents breakage and encourages healthy renewal.

Do you have a question for Dr. Joel Schlessinger about LATISSE? Let us know in the comments below.

Joel Schlessinger MD discusses LovelySkin’s newest products from NuFACE

Thursday, June 5th, 2014

LovelySkin.com is proud to now carry skin care products and devices from the top-rated brand, NuFACE®. The mission of NuFACE® is to help men and women alike put their best face forward. They were among the first to release skin care devices that utilize microcurrent technology to improve the appearance of facial contours, fine lines and wrinkles. Today, they continue to hone and build upon their innovative knowledge.

Joel Schlessinger MD recommends the NuFACE® Trinity Facial Trainer Kit to combat signs of aging.

The NuFACE® Trinity Facial Trainer Kit is the only FDA-approved, handheld facial toning device that is clinically proven to reduce signs of aging. Microcurrent technology gently but effectively stimulates the skin to tone the facial muscles and prep the complexion for serums and other treatments. The original kit comes with the Trinity device, Gel Primer, charging accessories and a user manual. Available for separate purchase are the ELE attachment, which targets lines in hard-to-reach places, and the Wrinkle Reducer attachment, which uses a combination of red, amber and infrared light to diminish signs of aging.

To use the Trinity, you’ll simply apply gel primer and then move the device over your face as directed.

Try these other NuFACE® products alongside your Trinity to achieve the best results, says Joel Schlessinger MD.

To get the most out of your Trinity skin care regimen, Joel Schlessinger MD suggests trying the variety of treatments and serums available from NuFACE®. NuFACE® Optimizing Mist is a great way to keep your gel or cream primer activated while your use your device. You can also spritz it on throughout the day when you need a quick, energizing boost of moisture. If you’re looking to plump and rejuvenate your skin, try NuFACE® Collagen Booster Copper Complex Serum. This serum contains copper to promote healing and a combination of hydrocotyl and coneflower to improve suppleness. The NuFACE® Anti-Aging Infusion Serums Trio is a great way to try out what NuFACE® has to offer on a trial basis. These mini serums each combine powerful ingredients like peptides and vitamin C to lift and hydrate the skin and reverse signs of aging.

Do you have questions for Joel Schlessinger MD about NuFACE®? Let us know in the comments section.

Joel Schlessinger MD answers frequently asked questions about skin tags

Monday, May 19th, 2014

Skin tags, or acrochorda, are small, brown or flesh-colored growths that occur on areas of the body where the skin frequently folds and creases. Typical locations for skin tags include the neck, groin, armpit and eyelid. Though usually painless, this common skin condition can be an aesthetic nuisance, and many people opt to have them removed. In his latest SlideShare presentation, Dr. Joel Schlessinger answers frequently asked questions about skin tags, skin tag removal and after care.

Dr. Schlessinger believes that skin tags have an infectious component.

Though the cause of skin tags is somewhat of a mystery, most physicians agree that skin tags occur in frictional places on the body. That is, skin tags often appear in places where either clothing rubs against skin or skin rubs against skin. For example, when we walk, we may swing our arms. This could produce a skin tag in the armpit.

Obesity and pregnancy may increase one’s chances of developing one or more skin tags. Genetics is also known to play a casual role and there seems to be a correlation between skin tags and insulin resistance in diabetics. Dr. Schlessinger, along with other physicians, thinks that skin tags may be caused by an infection.

Explore treatment options for skin tags with Dr. Joel Schlessinger and Skin Specialists P.C.

If you would like to get rid of your skin tags, Dr. Joel Schlessinger recommends having them surgically removed. In his practice, he prefers to numb the area and use a scalpel. This is a quick and relatively painless process with a very short recovery time.

If scarring is a concern, there are several prescription-grade aftercare products available on LovelySkin.com that come highly recommended by Dr. Joel Schlessinger. A few of his favorites are Kinerase Scar Healing Therapy, SkinMedica Scar Recovery Gel with Centelline and Avene Cicalfate Restorative Cream. All three products contain healing ingredients that speed up recovery time and reduce the appearance of scars.

Do you have a question for Dr. Schlessinger about skin tags? Share with us in the comments below.

Joel Schlessinger MD answers frequently asked questions about CoolSculpting

Monday, May 5th, 2014

No matter how much we diet and exercise, we may still struggle with small pockets of stubborn fat. “Love handles,” “tummy pooch” and “muffin top” can leave us feeling discouraged after our exhaustive efforts. However, with the latest fat-eliminating procedure, CoolSculpting, the results we’re looking for could be more attainable than we think. In his latest SlideShare presentation, Joel Schlessinger, MD answers frequently asked questions about CoolSculpting, the noninvasive, fat-freezing treatment designed to amplify and expedite gym results.

CoolSculpting uses patented technology to safely freeze fat cells in the body, says Joel Schlessinger, MD.

CoolSculpting is a noninvasive, FDA-approved treatment that uses patented technology to safely freeze fat cells in the body while healthy skin and muscle remain intact. Once the crystallized fat cells die off, they are eliminated gradually over the next 60-90 days through the body’s natural metabolic processes. The procedure involves no incisions and no anesthesia. No fat cells are burned, shattered or extracted. Instead, an applicator is applied directly to the skin’s surface to deliver controlled cooling to targeted fat cells.

Recently, ZELTIQ Aesthetics launched the brand new CoolFit applicator designed to treat a wider range of areas on the body.

Joel Schlessinger, MD recommends CoolSculpting to those with a busy, active lifestyle.

One CoolSculpting treatment lasts for just an hour, and there is virtually no recovery time. It can be done during one’s lunch break, and all activities can immediately resume directly following the procedure. Aside from a little redness or tenderness, there are no side effects.

Since CoolSculpting does not eliminate large areas of fat, the ideal candidate is someone who already maintains a healthy diet and regular exercise regimen, but who would like a leg up when it comes to losing the last 10-15 pounds. It’s also a wonderful option for those with little to no downtime for procedures that require an extended recovery period.

Do you have a question for Joel Schlessinger, MD about CoolSculpting? Share with us in the comments below.

Joel Schlessinger MD shares how to treat minor skin wounds

Tuesday, April 22nd, 2014

Minor skin wounds are a part of everyday life. It’s easy to receive cuts and scrapes while living an active lifestyle. In his most recent presentation, Joel Schlessinger discusses what you can do to treat and heal these minor wounds. Learn how to take care of your skin when you cut your finger or scrape your knee with these helpful tips.

Minor wounds are caused by everyday hazards, explains Joel Schlessinger MD.

A wound occurs any time the skin is broken. Minor wounds are some of the most common forms of injury to the skin, often caused by the dangers we encounter in everyday life such as cutting your finger while washing dishes or scraping your elbow on concrete. These small, shallow cuts, scrapes or abrasions can be treated without a visit to the doctor.

Joel Schlessinger MD recommends his favorite products to treat small cuts and scrapes.

To heal scrapes and other minor wounds, Joel Schlessinger MD recommends Elta Hydrovase Wound Dressing Gel, which keeps wounds moist to speed up the healing process. This unique gel also prevents tissue buildup that can cause scarring, itching and irritation. For those with more sensitive skin, Vaniply Ointment has a gentle, hydrating formula that contains no preservatives or chemical irritants.

Many people think it’s important to let a scrape “air out” after a few days, but this is not true. Letting a scab form over the affected area often leads to scarring. To avoid scarring, Joel Schlessinger MD suggests keeping the area covered until the skin is completely healed.

Joel Schlessinger MD also recommends FixMySkin Healing Balm with 1% Hydrocortisone to treat minor skin concerns like insect bites, poison ivy, dry skin, chapped lips, psoriasis, eczema and more. The hydrocortisone in this medicated balm has chemical properties that relieve itching and heal the skin. Additionally, a unique combination of waxes allows the balm to remain solid even when warm so it won’t melt in your pocket or purse.

Do you have a question for Joel Schlessinger MD? Share with us in the comments.

 

Joel Schlessinger MD answers frequently asked questions about NeoStrata Triple Firming Neck Cream

Tuesday, April 15th, 2014

The neck and décolletage are two hard-to-treat areas that show the most signs of aging. While serums, creams and sunscreens provide excellent protection for the face, the neck and chest areas are often exposed to the sun without the same protection. This leads to wrinkles, dark spots, loss of firmness and more. That’s where NeoStrata Skin Active Triple Firming Neck Cream can help. In his most recent presentation, Joel Schlessinger MD discusses this new firming treatment and how it could benefit your skin.

This firming neck cream diminishes the signs of aging, Joel Schlessinger MD explains.

NeoStrata Skin Active Triple Firming Neck Cream is designed to help reverse the visible signs of aging on the neck and décolletage by building volume and firming sagging skin. This neck cream uses clinically proven ingredients like NeoGlucosamine, NeoCitriate, apple stem cell extract, vitamin E and a pro-amino acid to visibly lift, firm, brighten and plump the neck and chest area. With regular use, this treatment gives the skin a more radiant and youthful glow.

Triple Firming Neck Cream easily fits into any mature skin care regimen, says Joel Schlessinger MD.

For best results, apply NeoStrata Skin Active Triple Firming Neck Cream twice daily. After cleansing, smooth the treatment over your entire neck and décolletage area. Joel Schlessinger MD recommends this neck cream for anyone who wants to address the signs of aging on this hard-to-treat area. Plus, its oil-free and paraben-free formula won’t irritate even the most sensitive skin.

Do you have a question for Joel Schlessinger MD? Share with us in the comment section.

Joel Schlessinger MD discusses IPL Intense Pulsed Light treatment

Tuesday, April 1st, 2014

Many women struggle with dark spots and sun damage. The best way to create and maintain an even skin tone is to pair an in-office treatment with an advanced skin care regimen. In his most recent presentation, Joel Schlessinger MD answers frequently asked questions about IPL, or intense pulsed light therapy. He also recommends a post-treatment skin care regimen that will help you maintain a healthy complexion.

IPL treatment creates a more even skin tone, Joel Schlessinger MD shares.

The IPL treatment uses an innovative technology that helps diminish the appearance of dark spots, discoloration, freckles and uneven skin tone. This gentle, non-ablative procedure uses broad spectrum light to safely treat sun damage. Great for patients with active lifestyles, IPL therapy requires no downtime and has a very low risk of side effects.

An advanced skin care regimen will help you maintain a healthy complexion, says Joel Schlessinger MD.

After receiving an IPL treatment, it is important to maintain your results with an advanced skin regimen. Joel Schlessinger MD recommends using Retin-A, Refissa, Tretinoin or an over-the-counter retinol along with a brightening system like Obagi Nu-Derm. This 7-piece system reduces the appearance of dark spots with 4% hydroquinone. With continued use, you’ll see results in as little as six weeks.

SkinMedica Retinol Complex 1.0 is an excellent over-the-counter retinol product. It minimizes sun damage, fine lines and wrinkles by increasing cell turnover. This retinol can be mixed with Obagi Nu-Derm Blender for enhanced results.

Finally, Joel Schlessinger MD suggests applying a daily sunscreen to protect your complexion against future damage. Wearing sunscreen every day will help prevent dark spots from returning. EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 Broad Spectrum Sunscreen is an excellent choice because its gentle, oil-free formula won’t clog pores or cause irritation.

Do you have a question about IPL therapy for Joel Schlessinger MD? Share with us in the comments.