Dr. Marie Anne Giardina-Beckett, MD

Blackhead removers, also known as comedone extractors, work by applying gentle pressure to prepped skin to push out clogged pores without damaging the follicle. While using fingers can damage hair follicles, using these tools in a professional setting is much safer for your skin. It is not recommended to use fingers for blackhead removal.

A HydraFacial is a state-of-the-art treatment that helps achieve healthy skin in as little as 30-45 minutes. It uses a special handpiece with Vortex technology to gently deep cleanse, exfoliate, extract impurities, nourish, and hydrate the skin. This customizable treatment can address specific concerns like acne, pigmentation, fine lines, and wrinkles, leaving patients with a 'glazed donut' glow.

Rough and bumpy skin, regardless of body location, is commonly caused by dry skin and an overproduction of dead skin cells that are not shedding properly. To address this, it's important to gently exfoliate using products with enzymes or light percentages of salicylic acid, while avoiding aggressive methods. Additionally, focus on hydration with moisturizers containing humectants and emollients like ceramides, squalene, and glycerin to help retain skin moisture.

It is strongly recommended to avoid products containing alcohol, talc powder, and fragrance on the face. Alcohol severely dries the skin barrier, leading to breakouts and irritation. Talc powder can be processed in facilities containing asbestos, which is unsafe for skin. Fragrances are often irritating, even for non-sensitive individuals, and can cause itching, redness, and burning. Always read product labels carefully to ensure they are skin-safe.

Teenage breakouts are very common and normal, primarily due to a surge of hormones causing oil glands to overproduce. To manage, use a gentle cleanser twice daily, a gentle moisturizer to keep the skin barrier hydrated, 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 see a dermatologist or dermatology provider for professional help.

For effective lip care, it's crucial to both hydrate and protect your lips. Products like Vaseline, Aquaphor, or other ointments occlude the skin, protecting it but not providing moisture. To truly hydrate, use lip oils and masks to infuse the skin with moisture. The best approach is to use both hydrating products and occlusive products.

Psoriasis flare-ups can be triggered by several factors, including surgery or any trauma to the skin, and significant stress. Scratching and rubbing itchy areas can also worsen psoriasis, a phenomenon known as Kebner. If you are experiencing a flare-up, it is recommended to make an appointment with your dermatology provider.

Absolutely. Even with a lower UV index, significant UV rays can still cause sunburns and predispose to skin cancer. Light reflecting off snow can increase UV exposure, leading to burns on exposed skin areas. Our practice frequently observes winter sun damage, especially in individuals who ski, underscoring the importance of year-round sunscreen use.

Chest and back acne, similar to facial acne, primarily stems from genetics and hormones. Other contributing factors include a diet high on the glycemic index (which can spike blood sugar and cause inflammation), stress, sweating, and certain types of clothing. For those who work out frequently, it's recommended to shower shortly after exercise or wear moisture-wicking clothing to prevent sweat from sitting on the skin and exacerbating acne.

Mohs surgery is considered the gold standard for treating certain skin cancers, boasting a 99% cure rate. During the procedure, the doctor meticulously removes the skin cancer layer by layer, checking each one until all cancer cells are gone, ensuring complete removal while sparing as much healthy tissue as possible. To prevent skin cancer and potentially avoid Mohs surgery, it's crucial to wear sunscreen, use protective clothing, and get annual skin checks. If you haven't had your annual skin check, it's recommended to schedule an appointment with a dermatologist promptly.