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Myths and Facts about Scarring

Myth: A Scar from a Pimple Is Not Permanent

Fact: A scar from a pimple may sometimes be temporary, but may become permanent. This is especially the case if one squeezes a pimple to get rid of it. Not only can this popping method spread bacteria and worsen the acne skin condition, but it can lead to permanent scarring.

Myth: Plastic Surgery Does Not Involve Scarring

Fact: Plastic surgery does involve scarring, as there is still the cutting of tissues. The difference is that this cutting and sometimes scarring is in a concealed area of the skin or body. This hidden scar that is usually a fine line may be hidden along the hairline or inside the nose, in the creases of an eyelid, or behind the ears. Finer needles and techniques are used for minimal scarring.

Myth: All Acne Scars Should Be Treated by a Dermatologist

Fact: Not all acne scars need to be treated by a dermatologist. Mild acne scars can sometimes be treated at home with natural remedies such as apple cider vinegar, Aloe Vera, lavender oil, sandalwood paste, tomato slices, egg whites, olive oil, lime juice and more. It is recommended to seek attention from a dermatologist if the acne scar is deep or if a severe infection may be present, as a permanent scar could form.

Myth: Vitamin E Should Be Applied Immediately on a Wound

Fact: Vitamin E cream or oil has been known to penetrate the layers of the skin to minimize free radicals that could interfere with healing, but applying the cream or oil too soon after a cosmetic procedure or surgery or when the wound is fresh, could prevent it from healing properly on its own. Most physicians recommend to wait at least two weeks before applying this type of cream to the wound.

Myth: Scars Cannot Be Removed

Fact: A scar can take 12 to 18 months to form completely, and can take as long as 24 months to disappear. If scars do not go away, a dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon may be able to assist. Many scars can be removed by lasers or surgery.

Myth: A Red Scar Is an Indication of a Permanent Scar

Fact: A red scar on a wound from a cosmetic or surgical procedure is the result of new blood vessels forming at the site of the skin injury to form new cells. This redness is a normal indication of healing. If there is heat and/or inflammation around the area of injury, then this may be an infection and may be more than temporary scarring.

All about Ingrown hair

Ingrown hair occurs when the hair grows under the skin and doesn’t surface, as it normally would. The condition is more likely to occur in areas that are shaved or waxed and may affect both men and women.

Ingrown hair is an esthetic problem more than a health problem. However, ingrown hair may lead to complications as well. Knowing the causes of ingrown hair can be helpful to be able to prevent this problem in the future.

Dry Skin

People with dry skin, both men and women, are more exposed to getting ingrown hair. This is due to the fact that there will be a lot of dead skin cells, and these may often cover the pores, preventing the hair to surface. This problem may be solved with proper moisturizing of skin and frequent use of creams that will keep the skin hydrated. The entire body needs this treatment.

Coarse Hair

Coarse hair that grows in a curved hair follicle is a cause of ingrown hair. This problem cannot be prevented, but there are a few laser treatments that may influence the quality of the hair and make it softer.

Oil in the Hair Follicles

Oil gathering in the hair follicles may also cause ingrown hair. This problem may be caused by various factors:

  • Hormonal problems
  • Hyperthyroidism
  • Excessive production of skin oils
  • Use of unsuitable moisturizing creams that make the skin oily
  • Poor hygiene

Dead Skin Cells in Pores

If the dead skin cells are not removed on a regular basis, these may gather and clog up the pores, resulting in ingrown hair. Getting a gentle skin peeling solution and using it twice per week can solve this problem.

Genetic Predisposition

In some cases, the ingrown hair is an inherited condition. After the hair is removed (i.e. after shaving), the skin may tend to grow covering the pores and the hair follicles.

Certain Hair Removal Procedures

Certain hair removal procedures can cause ingrown hairs:

  • Shaving, especially when using a blade that is too close to the skin
  • Waxing
  • Electric epilator
  • Electrolysis

These methods remove the hair follicles fully or partially, but until the hair starts growing, dead skin cells can cover the pores. Also, using these techniques can irritate the skin, stimulating the accumulation of dead skin cells and the covering of the skin pores.

Ingrown Hair Removal

The ingrown hairs may be prevented by exfoliating the skin on a regular basis and before the hair removal. However, there are also other methods to remove hair including laser systems, electrolysis, or removal with tweezers or sterile needles.

Facts on Freckles

There are two different kinds of freckles. The more common of the two are ephelides, which are flat, light brown marks that tend to fluctuate with the seasons. They can get darker in summer and lighter in the winter time.

Nobody is born with them. Have you ever seen a newborn baby with freckles? Nope. Never. Despite what some people say, freckles are absolutely always from sun exposure.

They’re an indication of how sensitive your skin is to the sun. In some people, melanin is produced evenly through the skin. When it’s not, freckles are little clumps of melanin that fluctuate with the sun.

Not all redheads have them. While redheads have less melanin in their skin, contrary to popular belief, not all of them have freckles. They’re thought to be controlled by the same gene, but red hair is recessive, and freckles are a dominant trait. Roughly 80% of redheads have an MC1R gene.

In Medieval times, they were considered witches’ marks. Never mind the fact that men have and will alway be just as susceptible them–right up there with moles, warts, and birth marks—freckles were said to be indicative of a women’s allegiance to the devil.

Skin care for fall

With the sunlight and temperature changing, that means that fall is beginning to settle in around us. And as fall settles in, it’s important to change your skin care routine to keep your skin looking refreshed. So what should you do?

During this time of year, your skin can dry out, making it itchy, tight, and irritated. During the fall, hydration is one of the major keys for proper skin care.

There is less humidity in the air now than in the summer, so you’ll need to step up your moisturizing regimen to preserve the natural oils in your skin. Making sure to drink plenty of liquids every day is an easy way to maintain skin hydration and elasticity (not to mention just being healthy for you in general). Be sure to keep wearing your daily SPF because the sun rays can cause damage even during the fall and winter months!

Chapped lips are a common problem in the fall, so make sure to pay special attention to your lips. You lose ten times more moisture through your lips than from the rest of your skin combined. Apply a petroleum-based lip balm, both before and after applying lipstick.

Summer can often leave many of us with sun-damaged skin, leaving behind spots or even fine lines and wrinkles. As we prepare ourselves for the upcoming holidays, we all just want to look our best. A minimally invasive laser treatment can help add the finishing touch to your look for the new season with little to no downtime. A quick laser treatment works to tackle the various problems that the skin faces, such as spots, lines, or wrinkles that may have set in or worsened over the summer months. A complimentary visit with Dr. Goldsmith can help you sort out your needs.

5 Signs You May Need Facial Fillers

5 Signs You May Need Facial Fillers

Dermal fillers can make a major difference when it comes to your overall appearance. Many women and men decide to seek dermal injections because it rejuvenates the face. The results are smoother, more voluminous skin. Have you been putting off facial fillers for one reason or another? The truth is if you want to look your best and fight lines and wrinkles, dermal fillers are typically one of the best ways to go about it. Dermal fillers offer excellent results without surgery, meaning you don’t have to take time off work to benefit.

To know if you should seek facial fillers, consider the following reasons people have decided to get them.

  • Wrinkles: Over the course of your life, your skin will begin to wrinkle. That’s normal, and many people consider a few wrinkles “distinguishing.” However, it’s a problem if your wrinkles start sagging. That’s a sure sign that your facial tissue has deteriorated and that your skin could use a little rejuvenation.
  • Smile Lines: There are a ton of benefits to smiling. Research shows that faking a smile can boost your mood and reduce your stress levels. Unfortunately, smiling a lot forces your facial muscles to perform a repetitive motion. Chances are that you have been wearing down some of your facial tissues with your frequent smiling. No need to worry or stop smiling though. Facial fillers can revitalize those tissues to restore volume to the lower face.
  • Dark Circles: Although there can be many causes of dark circles under your eyes, facial filler is a proven solution for diminishing those circles and revitalizing your appearance. Ask about facial injections if you discover that your dark circles are caused by volume loss, thinning, or bulging.
  • Acne Scars: Unfortunate as it is, sometimes acne doesn’t go away completely –even after a few years. The marks may not be highly noticeable, or they may be obvious scars. Either way, you can clear up that acne once and for all with facial filler injections.
  • Thin Lips: If your lips have become thin or hardly noticeable, it can make you feel self-conscious. Boost your confidence with a simple facial filler injection that enhances the appearance of your lips.
Are Dermal Fillers right for you?

The best way to learn more about dermal fillers as well as your other options for non-surgical aesthetic procedures is to schedule a consultation at our practice. During your visit, we will be able to help you determine which options would be address your facial lines and wrinkles, leaving you looking years younger. For more information about dermal fillers and how they can help you look younger and more refreshed, be sure to contact Ageless Splendor today.