Sourced directly from Dr. Joseph Newmark's social posts and replies.
What is a comedone extractor and how should it be used?
A blackhead remover, also known as a comedone extractor, works by applying gentle pressure to prepped skin to push out clogged pores and their contents (sebum and gunk) without damaging the follicle. Using these tools in a professional setting is much safer for your skin, as pressing too hard with fingers can damage hair follicles. Using your fingers is not the recommended method for blackhead removal.
What is HydraFacial and what are its benefits?
HydraFacial is a state-of-the-art technology that uses a special handpiece with Vortex technology to gently deep cleanse, exfoliate, extract impurities, nourish, and hydrate the skin in as little as three steps. It can be customized to address specific concerns like acne, pigmentation, fine lines, and wrinkles, providing an accelerated treatment that leaves patients with healthy, glowing skin in 30-45 minutes.
What are the common causes of rough and bumpy skin?
The two most common causes of rough and bumpy skin, regardless of body location, are dry skin and an overproduction of dead skin cells that accumulate and do not shed.
What ingredients should I avoid putting on my face?
You should avoid products containing alcohol, talc powder, and fragrance. Alcohol severely dries the skin barrier, leading to breakouts and irritation. Talc powder can be processed in facilities containing asbestos, which is harmful to the skin. Fragrances can be very irritating, even for non-sensitive individuals, and have the potential to cause itching, redness, and burning. Always read product labels carefully to ensure they are skin safe.
What causes teenage acne and how should it be managed?
Teenage acne is very common and normal due to overproducing oil glands leading to breakouts, especially if skin isn't kept clean. Key management steps include using a gentle cleanser twice daily, a gentle moisturizer to hydrate the skin barrier, and exfoliating ingredients like salicylic acid to remove pore-clogging buildup. If breakouts don't improve after a couple of months, it's time to consult a dermatologist or dermatology provider.
How should I properly care for dry or cracked lips?
For dry or cracked lips, it's crucial to hydrate them, not just occlude them. Products like Vaseline or Aquaphor protect the skin by occluding it, but they don't infuse moisture. Instead, use lip oils and masks to hydrate, and then apply an occlusive product to seal in that moisture. It's recommended to use both hydrating and occluding products for comprehensive lip care.
What can cause psoriasis to flare up?
Psoriasis flare-ups can be triggered by several factors. Surgery or any trauma to the skin can cause new lesions to develop, a phenomenon known as Koebner. Stress is also a significant factor, often leading to a flare after a major stressful event. Additionally, scratching and rubbing itchy areas can cause a rebound effect and worsen psoriasis.
Is it necessary to wear sunscreen in the winter?
Yes, it is absolutely necessary to wear sunscreen in the winter. Even with a lower UV index, significant UV rays from the sky can still cause sunburns and predispose to skin cancer. Light reflecting off snow can also make exposed areas highly susceptible to sunburn. The practice frequently observes winter sun damage, especially in skiers.
What is AviClear laser treatment?
AviClear is an amazing new laser treatment offered by the practice that works to clear the skin for good, particularly for acne.
What is Mohs surgery and what are its benefits?
Mohs surgery is considered the gold standard for certain skin cancers, boasting a 99% cure rate. During the procedure, the doctor removes the skin cancer while taking as little healthy skin as possible, meticulously checking each layer of tissue until the cancer is completely gone. This process ensures complete removal while sparing as much healthy tissue as possible.
How can I prevent skin cancer and ensure early detection?
To prevent skin cancer, it's crucial to wear sunscreen, use protective clothing, and get regular skin checks. The practice recommends an annual skin check, and for those who haven't had one, scheduling an appointment with an expert dermatologist within five days is advised. Early detection and the right treatment are key.