Cosmetic Dermatology
Actinic Keratosis
Also known as precancerous lesions, actinic keratoses, (or AK’s), can continue to grow and develop into skin cancers. These cancers may spread, which is why it is so important to have them removed. They are often a result of sun exposure and can be treated to prevent their progression. Your general dermatologist may treat these with prescription creams, freezing with liquid nitrogen (cryotherapy) or laser photodynamic therapy. If however they do not respond well to these treatments and your doctor is concerned about them progressing later in life to skin cancer, they may refer you to Dr. Shelton to have a medium-depth chemical peel or laser or plasma resurfacing.Keloids
Keloids are scars that have formed after bug bites, ingrown hairs, surgery, burns, cuts, ear piercing and even acne. They can become painful and irritating, resulting in itching and impairment of function depending on their severity. There is often a genetic / inherited component to the susceptibility of patients developing keloids. It is important for patients to address these for both health and cosmetic concerns, and speak to a dermatologist such as Dr. Shelton to learn about the methods of addressing keloid scars.Melasma
Melasma is a skin condition that typically affects women during pregnancy or can be brought on by taking oral contraceptive medication because of the estrogen influence on pigmentation. It is caused by hormones and sun exposure, and is often called the “mask of pregnancy” as this is when it most often occurs. However, melasma is seen in men too, for unexplained reasons. It can be addressed with avoidance of the sun, chemical peels, topical creams, and even laser procedures. A proper diagnosis is essential for treating this condition appropriately. The reality is that once someone has melasma, it means they were susceptible to it and it might have been awakened by a procedure or sunburn, etc. If the melasma improves with treatment, the susceptibility is still there and the slightest sun exposure can bring it right back. Treatment should be thought of as ongoing maintenance, not a cure.Rosacea
Rosacea can be a very embarrassing, chronic skin disorder. This disorder can cause redness and bumps on the skin, specially the face. It might look like acne, but will not respond to the same treatments. Instead, a dermatologist may suggest a specific medication regimen to allow patients to improve the condition.Often patients are referred to Dr. Shelton after their dermatologist has improved the acne component of the rosacea for laser treatment of unwanted facial redness. This is done with the V-beam laser, usually a series of monthly treatments. Some may need as few as three treatments and others, more than five. There is currently no cure for this condition, but it can be controlled.