Common Rashes of the Skin: Part 7 - Intertrigo

Intertrigo describes a rash in the body folds, such as in the folds of the neck, under the arms, under a protruding abdomen, in the groin, underneath the breasts, or between the buttocks. Intertrigo usually presents as red, itchy, burning patches and papules, and occurs in these skin folds. 

It can occur in people of all ages and sexes, but is more common in those that are overweight or obese. Genetics play a role, but environmental factors are the main contributing factors for intertrigo. These skin folds have a relatively higher surface temperature than other areas of the body. Moisture from sweating cannot evaporate due to occlusion. There is also a lack of air circulation in these skin folds. Friction from movement of adjacent skin results in inflammation.

Intertrigo is typically infectious in nature, with the common culprits being yeast, fungi, and bacteria. Treatment involves topical agents against the offending culprit. Sometimes, mild corticosteroids are also used to help with inflammation. In severe cases, oral agents may be used.

Common non-infectious causes for intertrigo include psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, and irritant dermatitis. Treatments for these include topical corticosteroids and emollients.

Spring Cleaning for your Skin

There is still time to take advantage of our current promotion - 25% off products that will help clean & exfoliate your skin! 

The SkinMedica AHA/BHA cream has both alpha hydroxy acid and beta hydroxy acid, which work by removing dead skin cells, revealing soft, hydrated skin underneath. It helps diminish the look of fine lines and wrinkles, improves dullness, and improves uneven skin tone & rough texture. This product also contains vitamin E, which is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect the skin from free radical damage. There is also Pro-vitamin B5 in the AHA/BHA cream, which helps bind moisture to the skin.

The Theraderm NuPeel is a natural enzyme peel made from papaya enzymes and botanical extracts. It gently removes dead skin cells, revealing radiant skin underneath. The NuPeel is great for especially tough areas such as the hands, elbows, knees, and heels.

Another product that is eligible for this promotion is the SkinCeuticals Blemish + Age Defense. This first-to-market blend contains alpha hydroxy acid, beta hydroxy acid, and dioic acid. This product will not only exfoliate the skin, but will also improve hyperpigmentation & blotchiness, reduce oiliness, and decongest clogged pores.

Stop by any one of our three offices to purchases these great products at a great discount for the month of April!

Common Rashes of the Skin: Part 6 - Seborrheic Dermatitis

Seborrheic dermatitis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that occurs most frequently in areas with the most sebaceous glands, such as the T-zone area of the face, scalp, inside the ears, and chest. This condition is linked to Malassezia, a type of yeast. The rash usually presents as scaly red patches, and rarely, as red plaques. The overlying scale can be white or yellow in color. These red patches can itch or burn.

Researchers are still studying what causes this common skin disease. It appears that the cause is complex. Many factors seem to work together to cause seborrheic dermatitis, including the yeast that normally lives on our skin, our genes, living in a cold and dry climate, stress, and a person’s overall health. 

The medications used to treat seborrheic dermatitis include antifungal shampoos and creams, anti-inflammatory creams, and barrier repair creams.

Many infants get cradle cap, which is a form of seborrheic dermatitis. Unlike adult seborrheic dermatitis, the condition usually resolves on its own in infants, usually within 6 months to 1 year of age.

Common Rashes of the Skin: Part 5 - Folliculitis

Folliculitis is a common skin condition in which hair follicles become inflamed. It is usually caused by infection with bacteria or fungi. At first, folliculitis may look like small red bumps or white-headed pimples around hair follicles.The infection can spread and turn into non-healing, crusty sores or large boils. Severe infections can cause permanent hair loss and scarring.

This condition can be triggered by heat and sweat, friction from shaving or wearing tight clothing, and coverings on your skin, such as plastic dressings or adhesive tape.

Some recommendations to prevent flares of folliculitis: Avoid tight clothes to reduce friction. Avoid shaving, if possible. If you must shave, use an electric razor or a clean sharp blade every time you shave. Before shaving, wash your skin with warm water and a mild facial cleanser. Use lubricating shave cream or gel before shaving. Apply moisturizing lotion after shaving. Shave in the direction of hair growth.

Treatments for folliculitis include topical and oral medications to control infection. Minor surgery is sometimes needed for boils arising from folliculitis. Laser hair removal is sometimes recommended for areas with chronic folliculitis and when standard treatments have failed.

Common Rashes of the Skin: Part 4-Urticaria

Urticaria, also known as hives are flesh toned to red colored bumps that are classily itchy. Hives are known to appear quickly and disappear just as fast. They can change shapes, and disappear from one area only to appear in another. Urticaria is a condition that be transient or can last years.

Some of the know causes of urticaria are food allergies, medications, insect bites, infections, environmental allergens, a certain physical stimulation (such as sun exposure, water, heat, cold, pressure/touch, and exercise induced). In some cases, a true cause of the hives is not identifiable.

Treatment it aimed at avoiding aggravating factors if it is able to identified. 

Most cases are treated with OTC and/or prescription antihistamines for a period of time until hives resolve. Some cases require oral anti-inflammatory medications. If hives are recurrent or don’t go away, sometimes allergy testing is used to pinpoint cause of urticaria.

Common Rashes of the Skin : Part 3- Tinea Versicolor

Tinea versicolor (TV) is a common fungal infection affecting mostly adolescents and young adults.  The condition is seen most often in tropical regions where the weather is hot and humid.  Despite the name, TV is not in the same family as ringworm (tinea). Also unlike ringworm, it is not contagious from one person to the next.  Tinea versicolor is caused from a fungus that naturally already lives on many people’s skin, but only causes TV in some individuals.

The term “versicolor” refers to the various skin color changes that may be seen with this condition, including light patches, dark patches, pinkish patches, or a combination.   There may be small scales on the patches, and mild itching may be present.  TV is seen most commonly seen on the trunk, upper arms, and upper legs.

Factors that contribute to development of TV include exposure to hot and humid weather, excessive sweating, and usage of skin oils.  TV is not caused by poor hygiene.

Treatment consists of topical or oral antifungals.  TV responds well to therapy, however it does have a tendency to reoccur.  If TV recurs frequently, preventative measures with washes and/or creams can be used. After treatment, the skin may take months to return to its normal color.

This week blog was written by Quynh-Dao Tonnu , PA Student from Nova Southeastern University

Common Rashes of the Skin: Part 2- Tinea Coporis (AKA Ringworm)

Tinea corporis is a type of fungal infection occurring on skin sites other than the face, hands, feet, or groin.  It is collectively known along with other types of tinea as “ringworm.”  The fungus may be acquired via direct skin contact with a person, animal, or surface that is infected.  It can also be spread from other sites of infection (i.e. hands, feet).  Tinea corporis outbreaks can often be seen among wrestlers or other athletes who have skin to skin contact.

Tinea corporis typically begins as an itchy, scaly, red circular or oval patch that spreads outwardly.  The center subsequently clears, leaving a raised border, thus creating the look of a “ring.”  Occasionally, multiple plaques may join together or there may be pustules.

The diagnosis of tinea corporis is usually obtained  a fungal culture or biopsy.  Treatment consists of either topical or oral antifungal drugs.

Some tips to preventing fungal infections are to always wear sandals or shoes at the gym, pool, and public showers.  Do not share sports gear, unwashed clothes, or towels with others.  After exercise, be sure to wash with soap, and change socks and underwear at least once a day.  Lastly, always dry yourself well after showering or swimming.

Blog written by Quynh-Dao Tonnu, PA Student from Nova Southeastern University

Common Rashes of the Skin :Part 1- Hand Dermatitis

Also known as hand eczema, hand dermatitis is a common condition involving inflammation of the skin on the hands.  It occurs when the skin becomes irritated in response to a “trigger,” such as contact with harsh soaps, raw fruits/vegetables, and chemicals.  Environmental and genetic factors both play a role, although those with long term exposure to “wet work,” such as food handling, healthcare work, and hairdressing are at highest risk. Signs and symptoms include redness, itching, thickening of the skin, scaling, cracks, and even erosion and bleeding.   

In recent years, overuse of hand sanitizer has been associated with hand dermatitis, seen particularly in hospital workers.  Alcohol-based hand sanitizer can disturb the natural pH and barrier of the skin, leaving skin vulnerable to allergens which can penetrate beneath the surface and trigger an autoimmune reaction.  It is this reaction which causes reddening, itching, blisters, swelling, peeling, and cracking.  In severe cases, the condition can become persistent.  

Prevention of hand dermatitis involves avoidance of irritants, which varies between individuals but may include detergents & soaps, foods, metals, plants, cement, topical medications, gloves, cosmetics, as well as prolonged exposure to water.  Washing hands with lukewarm (not hot) water with a mild unscented soap, immediately followed by a heavy hand cream will help to keep hands moisturized and protected.  After washing, hands should be gently pat dry in order to not irritate the skin.  Additionally, gloves should always be worn (vinyl generally preferred over latex or rubber) before coming into contact with possible irritants.  If a patient is already experiencing hand dermatitis, corticosteroids may be prescribed to control the inflammation, followed by prevention strategies to avoid 

re-occurrence. 

This weeks blog written By Quynh-Dao Tonnu , PA Student from Nova Southeastern

Provider Spotlight: Shanah Cyr, Aesthetician

Shanah Cyr is one of our aestheticians. She provides aesthetic services to clients in our Cape Coral and Fort Myers offices. She is a licensed Facial Specialist who received her schooling at the Florida Academy of Massage and Skin Care.

What inspired you to pursue a career as an aesthetician?

When I started working for Florida Skin Center, I quickly saw how happy all the aesthetic patients were. They would talk about their skin and how much improvement they had seen. I knew I wanted to be able to bring about those results in patients.

What are some of the highlights of your career? 

The biggest highlight would be helping the patient. When I see the results of my work - their increased self-confidence because they are not afraid to show their skin - it makes me feel satisfied. I made a difference in their life for the better, and that brings me joy.

What are three things a patient can do to maintain healthy skin?

Cleanse, Exfoliate and Protect with SPF of 30 or more

What do you include in your own skin care regimen? 

I make sure I exfoliate regularly. As I get older, I see how quickly the texture of my skin changes if I don't regularly remove the dead skin.

What are the most common procedures you perform? What are the ones you most commonly recommend?   

The most common procedure performed as well as recommended would be Chemical Peels. They effectively help with such a wide range of concerns such as acne, fine lines, pore size, and uneven skin tone. If I have a patient with more specific needs, I may recommend microneedling or Exilis treatments.

What do you like to do for fun? 

I like to be with friends, or craft (always working on something new). But a good night in with my family is the best.

What do you like most about working at FSC? 

I enjoy the people the most. They are smart and funny and have a clear idea of who they are and where they want to be. This is a growing and successful business and I am grateful to be a part of that growth and success.

Provider Spotlight: Cindy Huang, PA-C

Cindy Huang is Florida Skin Center's physician assistant for the Lehigh Acres office. She is the newest provider to join our team. She received her B.A. in Psychology from Binghamton University, and her Masters in Medical Science from Arcadia University.

What inspired you to pursue a career as a physician assistant?

After college, I worked in behavioral cardiovascular research for several years, and interacted with subjects that would ask me a lot of medical questions that I could not answer. I have always had a desire to help people, and so I decided I wanted to become more directly involved in patient care. The physician assistant profession was appealing to me, because it allows one to provide care to patients but still have a life outside of work.

What are some of the highlights of your career? 

I would say working for Florida Skin Center is the highlight of my career. I worked for a few different practices in New York before moving here, and I have not come across a better organization to work for. Dr. Badia is an excellent and caring physician, and my colleagues are awesome. We work as a team to serve our patients, who are our #1 priority. It is always very rewarding to hear good feedback from patients that I have taken care of - those are usually highlights of my day/career! 

What are three things a patient can do to maintain healthy skin?

Moisturize your skin daily, wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 30 (and reapply at least every 2 hours), and get regular full-body skin checks.

What do you include in your own skin care regimen? 

I use Skin Medica's Retinol Complex and TNS Eye Repair to help keep my skin looking more youthful by reducing the look of fine lines and dark circles. I also like Skin Medica's HA5 Hydrator, which makes my skin feel very soft and smooth almost instantly. I use Colorescience's Sunforgettable in the morning, which is a powder mineral sunscreen. It's very quick to apply, which is crucial because I'm always in a rush in the morning!

What are the most common procedures you perform? What are the ones you most commonly recommend?   

Being a dermatology physician assistant is great because we get to do both cosmetic and medical procedures. The most common medical procedures I perform are skin biopsies; they are also the most common medical procedure I recommend, because a large percentage of patients coming in for their full-body skin checks are not aware of some of the abnormal moles or growths on their body that need to be tested. On the cosmetic side, it depends on what the patient is looking to improve. One of the many great things about Florida Skin Center is that we offer a full array of cosmetic/aesthetic (and medical) services, so we have many options to treat the signs of aging, from fillers and Botox to laser to chemical peels to microneedling.

What do you like to do for fun? 

I love to try new restaurants, play sports, and do DIY projects. I also love spending time with my 2 cute nephews.

What do you like most about working at FSC? 

The FSC culture, which emphasizes teamwork and growth. I enjoy coming in to work every morning and knowing that I'm part of a team that cares about each other, both personally and professionally. 

What is the last book you read? 
Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, although I'm still working on it!

Provider Spotlight: Brooke Drew, PA-C

Brooke Drew is Florida Skin Center's physician assistant for the Cape Coral office. She has been with Florida Skin Center for 3 years. She received her B.S. in Biomedical Science from the University of South Florida, and her Masters in Medical Science from Nova Southeastern University.

What inspired you to pursue a career as a physician assistant?

Science was my favorite subject in school, and I have always had a desire to help people. I chose to become a Physician Assistant to help others, while also having time to be with and take care of my family.  I had some of my own experiences with skin conditions at a young age, and that is what made me want to pursue a career in Dermatology.

What are some of the highlights of your career? 

I can say that I am in my dream career. Dr Badia is a wonderful physician to work with and my colleagues are top notch. I am proud to have the Cape Coral location open to serve patients’ needs for everything from routine skin checks, to surgeries, lasers, and cosmetic procedures on a daily basis. I love when patients come back and tell me their condition is better, and knowing that I can potentially change their life by taking care of their skin.

What are three things a patient can do to maintain healthy skin?

Cleansing, Moisturizing, and Sunscreen (a yearly skin check of course goes along with the sunscreen).

What do you include in your own skin care regimen? 

To keep my skin clear and youthful, I use Skin Medica's AHA/BHA wash. It gives me the right balance of clean and also helps to exfoliate away dead skin. I also use retinol and TNS Essential Serum daily. These products help to exfoliate and improve collagen to keep my skin looking refreshed. I finish my daily routine with Skin Medica's Tinted Total Defense and Repair. It gives me protection (SPF 30) and color for the day.

What are the most common procedures you perform? What are the ones you most commonly recommend?   

One thing I love about my career as a Dermatology Physician Assistant is that I do a little of everything. Routine biopsies are the most common procedures I do, but I really enjoy surgery.

What do you like to do for fun? 

I am married and a mother of 2 busy girls, ages 2 and 4. We have family in the area and spend a lot of time with them. We also like to go on the boat (of course with sunscreen and protective clothing ;) )

What do you like most about working at FSC? 

Relationships and the ability to grow. We are a close family here at FSC, and we all care for each other. We are encouraged to grow and take on new tasks, responsibilities, and are always learning.

What is the last book you read? 

I am studying to recertify for my Physician Assistant National Boards this year, so I have been doing a lot of reading and taking courses to prepare.

Provider Spotlight: Shirisha Vallarapu, PA-C

Shirisha Vallarapu is Florida Skin Center's senior physician assistant. She received her B.S. in Microbiology from Miami University in Oxford, Ohio, and her Masters in Medical Science and B.S. in Physician Assistant Studies from Nova Southeastern University. If you are a patient of our Fort Myers office, you most likely have met her!

What inspired you to pursue a career as a physician assistant? 

I knew I always wanted a career in healthcare from a young age. I also wanted a career that would give me an opportunity to have a good work life balance and raise a family. My career as a PA has been very rewarding. I love having my own schedule and seeing patients daily while also getting to do a mix of procedures while  having plenty of family time.

What are some of the highlights of your career? 

Florida Skin Center was my very first job straight out of school. I have been working with Dr. Badia for over 13 years. I think the highlight of my career has been seeing the growth within myself and Florida Skin Center as we continue to grow and expand. I also love how I have built great relationships with our patients over the years. And see them out when I am out in the community.

What are three things a patient can do to maintain healthy skin? 

Sunscreen is vital to maintaining healthy skin especially here in SW FL and I recommend we wear it daily. Developing a good skin regimen at an early age for prevention, that includes retinol and antioxidants because although we all age, we can do it gracefully; and getting annual skin checks. We don’t know what we can’t see.

What are the most common procedures you perform? What are the ones you most commonly recommend?  

What I love about working at Florida Skin Center is that I get the opportunity to do medical and cosmetic procedures.  On the medical side, I perform biopsies to rule out skin cancers and other conditions, as well as surgeries to remove skin cancers.  I also love doing cosmetics for patients because it’s amazing to see how much better we feel about ourselves by doing simple non-invasive procedures like fillers, Botox and lasers.

What do you like to do for fun?

I have been married for 10 years and have two little boys, 2 and 7, who keep me on my toes. We love going to Disney and Lakes Park and doing all things boy.

What do you like most about working at FSC?

The culture. It is such a great work environment. The ladies I work with are all wonderful and are like a second family to me. We all genuinely care for each other and want the best for each other and our patients.

What is the last book you read?

I like a good suspense novel. The last book I read was : A Girl on a Train. Would love suggestions!

Common Pediatric Dermatology Conditions Series: Week 4 -Pityriasis Rosea

Pityriasis Rosea is a rash commonly seen in children and adults. The rash classically starts with a larger spot called a “herald patch.” This first patch is often red, raised, and slightly scaly.  A few days after the patch appears, many smaller spots will begin to appear, often in the shape of a Christmas tree. Although the rash may look concerning, it is not contagious and will go away within 4-10 weeks. Other symptoms can include headache, tiredness, fever, sore throat before the rash appears, but many people are asymptomatic.  Although the exact cause of pityriasis rosea is unknown, it is thought to be caused by certain viruses.

Many times the rash is asymptomatic, but in some the rash can be quite itchy and cause discomfort.  If the rash itches or continues for longer than 10 weeks, it is best to see a doctor so they can ensure the rash is properly diagnosed and prescribe medications to help with itching.  Treatments for itch include steroids, and antihistamines. There is no cure for pityriasis rosea, and treatment is symptomatic. Pityriasis rosea doesn’t cause scarring, and usually does not recur.

This weeks blog written by guest blogger: Abby Leboza, PA Student from Nova Southeastern 

Common Pediatric Dermatology Conditions Series: Week 3- Acne

    Acne is a very common skin condition of children and teenagers in which the pores on the face, neck, chest, back, or shoulders become plugged with bacteria, oil and dead skin cells. When this occurs, the plugged pores can begin to look red and inflamed.  Acne in part is caused by a bacterium called Propionibacterium acnes. These particular bacteria thrive in the oily environment of the skin . P. acne produced the redness and inflammation that are the hallmarks of acne lesions. Without treatment, this inflammation can cause scarring.  There are various types of acne including whiteheads, blackheads, and deeper cystic acne.  It is common for children and teenagers to have multiple types of acne at one time.

Acne is best treated early to decrease the risk of scarring. Often, people will try to treat acne with over the counter cleansers, moisturizers, and topicals. If over the counter products are not working on their own, it is time to see a dermatologist who can prescribe other medications.  These can include topical medications, and/or oral medications. A provider can also sometimes make recommendations for alternative or adjunct treatments such as chemical peels, facials, steroid injections, laser, and light therapy that can help with acne and acne scarring. Other factors that can help with acne breakouts are to minimize stress, and high-diary/high-carb diets. Break-outs can also be worsened due to hormones and certain medications. Moisturizing the skin of the face is imperative to help tolerate acne medications, and also reduce oil production. When your skin is overly dry, it will produce more oil and can lead to more inflammation and acne breakouts.

This weeks blog written by guest blogger: Abby Leboza, PA Student from Nova Southeastern 

Common Pediatric Dermatology Conditions Series: Week 2- Eczema

  Eczema is a condition in which the skin becomes inflames, irritated, and normal barrier protection function to the outside world is impaired.  This disruption to the skin barrier can cause it to become dry, cracked, itchy, red, and in some cases blister. Eczema can occur anywhere on the body, including the hands and feet.  Eczema can be due to genetics and/or allergies, and can often flare from environmental or weather changes.  When the skin starts to become irritated and inflamed, the areas can become very itchy. This itching and scratching can cause introduce infection to the skin that often need treatment with antibiotics. Signs of infection include, oozing or skin that doesn’t heal.

   Eczema is a treatable condition but is not curable.  Some people can grow out of eczema, while others will continue to have episodic break-outs.  It is important to seek treatment for eczema if it is not controlled with over the counter topical moisturizers and lifestyle changes. Eczema if left untreated can interrupt sleep, cause behavior problems, and possibly can become painful, or infected. When seeing the doctor or Physician assistant the treatment goal is to help heal the damaged skin and alleviate symptoms.  Some of these treatments include topical or oral steroids to help calm down inflammation of the skin, barrier restoration, topical immunomodualtors, antibiotics if the area is infected, and UV light therapy if appropriate.  Other steps to help control eczema at home include wearing soft and loose fitting clothes, using bland non fragrance soap and moisturizer, controlling itching with oral antihistamines, not scratching, avoiding known triggers, and washing clothes and linens in a gentle laundry detergent for sensitive skin. If no clear pattern is seen, allergy testing can help to determine what may cause flares.

 

Blog written by guest blogger: Abby Leboza PA Student from Nova Southeastern 

Common Pediatric Dermatology Conditions Series: Week 1- Impetigo, a common bacterial infection in children

Impetigo is a contagious skin condition caused by bacteria, often seen in children and infants. It usually starts as red sores around the nose, mouth, hands, or feet .When the sores open, they produce a honey-colored crust around the edges.  The condition can be spread by direct contact or touching the lesions, or by touching items another child with impetigo has already touched. Impetigo is most common in young children as well as in crowded, warm/humid areas.  Kids involved in sports such as wrestling or football are at a higher risk than children in other sports, due to physical contact.

    

            Although contagious, impetigo is not a dangerous condition. It is treated using topical and/or oral antibiotics .  In most cases, once a child has taken the antibiotics for 24-hours, they may return to school as they are no longer contagious. Scarring can occur as the areas heal, and it is import to protect areas with sunscreen and sun avoidance. Impetigo can often be confirmed by visual examination without biopsies or labs.  If the areas do not clear up with antibiotics, a culture may be taken to find which antibiotic will work best. 

This weeks blog was written by a guest blogger: Abby Leboza, Physician Assistant Student from Nova Southeastern

Take Advantage of this Quarter's Laser Promotion

From January 2017 to March 2017 you have the opportunity to take advantage of $200/off any V-Beam Perfecta laser package. 

This laser is used to treat :

• Telangiectasias (broken blood vessels)
• Hemangiomas
• Port wine stains
• Scars
• Stretch marks (striae)
• Acne
• Brown spots (lentigines)
• Warts.  

How does the Candela V-beam help improve vascular lesions?
The Candela V-beam produces an intense but gentle burst of light that selectively destroys the blood vessels of your spider veins, without damaging the surrounding tissue. After laser treatment the surrounding tissue is left intact. For the treatment of facial spider veins we generally recommend a total of 3-5 treatments each a month apart.  However, the type of vascular lesion to be treated will determine the number of treatments needed. The red veins respond better than blue veins and the smaller, matting vessels will respond sooner than the vessels up to 1.5mm in size. Port wine stain lesions have more vessels to be treated and may require multiple treatments.

How does the Vbeam help improve the look of scars and stretch marks? 
There is no current method or therapy that will completely remove scars or stretch marks. The Vbeam laser can improve the look and feel of most scars and stretch marks. It does this by stimulating collagen production in the deep layers of your skin, and helps to reduce the red/purple color in scaring. Multiple treatments are usually necessary to achieve improvement; the amount of improvement depends on the size and severity of the scar or stretch mark. Most patients notice improvement 4-6 weeks after their first treatment

How Does the Vbeam help improve acne?
Using laser can help to control acne breakouts. It uses gentle bursts of heat to reduce the amount of oil or sebum produced by the oil glands. The heat will also help to destroy bacteria that cause acne and inflammation. Vbeam will also help to improve redness in acne scars. There is minimal to no downtime after acne treatment with this laser. Most people will require a series of treatments based 2-4 weeks apart to see best results.

How does the Vbeam help improve the look of brown spots? 
The V-beam laser targets the melanin in the brown spot without damaging surrounding skin, making this one of the safest and most effective way to eradicate sun spots and discolored brown patches. Spots will likely become darker and may possibly bruise during the healing process. We recommend 1-2 treatments in most cases.

Are there any reasons that would not make me a candidate for V-beam therapy? 
The Candela V-beam is not recommended for patients with darker skin. Because of the increase in skin pigment the laser will be less effective on damaging the blood vessels of the spider veins or other vascular lesions to be treated. The depth of penetration of the Candela V-beam is limited to vessels about 1.5mm in depth. Therefore, vessels deeper than this may not respond to the therapy. Additionally, blue vessels may not respond as well as red ones.

What to expect?
Avoid the sun 4-6 weeks before and after treatment with this laser.  The feeling of a laser pulse has been described as being snapped by a rubber band or a slight stinging sensation. Following laser treatment, the area may continue to sting slightly or feel warm like sunburn.  You may also experience mild bruising, discoloration, and/or swelling in the areas treated by the laser for a week. To minimize down time please ask us about our make up to help cover any bruising or discoloration.