Monday, September 5, 2016

Treating Scarring Left By Shingles

Shingles is caused by the same virus as chickenpox and is characterized by painful rashes that may turn into blisters. The rash is similar to chickenpox but is only focused on a band of skin that is infected. Shingles is caused by a viral infection that damages nerve fibers. Studies have proven that after recovering from chickenpox, the virus can remain dormant in the system almost indefinitely.

Image Source: medicalnewsoday.com

Shingles begins as a constant pain that comes and goes on specific parts of the body. After several days, a rash develops. The blotches are red and can develop into itchy, fluid-filled blisters. When these blisters merge, they can look like a solid red band that looks like a severe burn. New blisters can form up to a week, after which they dry up and form scabs or crusts. A single episode can last for around two to four weeks. Other symptoms include fever, nausea, fatigue, chills, and muscle pain and weakness.

It is not uncommon for people to have leftover scarring from a shingles episode. Some people may scratch their wounds or pick at the scabs as they’re healing. Because of the size and relative severity of the skin condition, scars are usually noticeable and can cause emotional discomfort.

If treated immediately, these scars can be eliminated or reduced until they are unnoticeable. Some topical medicines work to some degree, but the most recommended method is cosmetic laser procedures. Qualified dermatology clinics use the latest technologies to resurface new skin cells to reduce scars and marks left by skin conditions such as shingles.

Image Source: healthline.com
However, it must be noted that extremely severe cases of shingles can cause scars that cannot be fully removed.

DermASAP is the only name to remember for superior cosmetic dermatology services, including treatment of superficial scarring due to shingles. Learn more about the clinic’s services when you visit this website.




Friday, September 2, 2016

Are All Moles Safe?

Image source: infodiseases.com
It is normal for people to have moles. Some people have moles on every part of their body, but they don’t seem to mind because these come in different forms, shapes, and sizes. However, not all moles are the same. There are different kinds, and some are related to various skin health issues like skin cancer.

Common moles are the typical kind. They are usually small in diameter and have a distinct, dome-like form. Dysplastic nevi or atypical moles have different symptoms. They vary in color and may be flat. They may share same characteristics with cancerous moles, but dysplastic nevi are benign. Junctional melanocytic nevi are moles from accumulating melanocytes from where the epidermis and dermis meet. The moles are dark in color and multiply in number through the years.

Intradermal nevi are flesh-colored moles that can blend with the skin. They are also usually benign. Compound nevi is similar-looking with intradermal or junctional nevi. They have even pigmentation and distinct borders. Halo nevi are raised moles with a ring of lighter skin that surround the area. These moles can be benign, and may not require treatment.

Image source: webmd.com
There is a small chance that a mole is malignant. Here are indicators that may show its cancerous nature. -

Change in size, shape, and color
-Loss of symmetry
-Bleeding, pain, inflammation, or itchiness
-Change in elevation (thickening of a flat mole)

Led by Dr. Kenneth M. Reed, DermASAP assesses various skin conditions, including moles, and offers procedures that will ensure patients’ overall skin health. Learn more about the clinic by visiting this website.