Why are dermatologists recommending topical antioxidants like Vitamin C and Vitamin A (Retin A) in addition to sunscreens?
I am noticing a more pronounced double chin in the last few years but I’m not interested in surgery. I heard about Kybella on the news recently. Is it available yet and how can I find out if I’m a good candidate?
Ann T. – San Francisco
Kybella (pronounced kye be’ lah) was approved by the FDA in April 2015. It’s an exciting new product that is identical to the Deoxycholic Acid that your body makes naturally to absorb fats. It works by destroying fat cells and is a new alternative to liposuction for treating submental fullness, commonly referred to as a double chin. Laub Dermatology & Aesthetics is currently the only practice in Marin County that has received the training and approval to treat patients.
For best results Kybella requires a series of appointments, spaced about a month apart. Each treatment takes about a half hour and will include approximately 12-20 injections, dependent on each patient’s particular desired results and physical needs based on an initial consultation. According to parent company Kythera, many people saw results in 2 to 4 treatments. Downtime is minimal and if it does occur, is generally after the first treatment. The best news is that once a patient’s treatment goals are reached, you likely may never need Kybella again. We encourage you to make a consultation appointment so together we can see if you are indeed a candidate and plan your treatment with your goals in mind.
For more information about the risks and benefits of Kybella, visit: https://mykybella.com/
A friend of mine says Rosacea is acne. Is this true?
Linda T. – Sausalito
Rosacea is often incorrectly referred to as “Adult Acne”. Historically one subtype of Rosacea was initially called “Acne Rosacea”. We now know that there is no connection between the two and the biomedical processes are different for each.
According to current research, Rosacea appears to be linked to a dysfunction of the body’s natural immune system. With this knowledge we know to treat with medications designed for their anti-inflammatory benefits as opposed to antibacterial effects. In fact, exfoliating acne medications like Retin-A and Retinols may cause the Rosacea symptoms to become worse.
It is important to know that Rosacea is a chronic disorder with 4 subtypes that often begins with a tendency to flush or blush easily. As it progresses it may turn into persistent redness and occasionally swelling across the bridge of the nose and into cheeks, forehead and chin. Small blood vessels, red bumps, pimples and even larger cysts can appear in the affected area. However, unlike acne, there are no blackheads.
There are remedies for each subtype of Rosacea including topical, oral medications and laser treatments. Avoidance of triggers in diet and lifestyle can also help. A qualified dermatologist should be consulted for diagnosis and a treatment plan for both Rosacea as well as Acne.
My wife recently told me she noticed a mole on my back that looked strange. Now I’m worried. What should I be looking for?
Paul M., Terra Linda
Take a few minutes to watch the Skin Cancer Self Check Video here on our website. A good rule of thumb is to think of the letters ABCDE:
