As summer approaches in Atlanta, preparing your skin and body to ensure you look and feel your best during the warmer months is essential. At MetroDerm, we offer a comprehensive range of treatments and services designed to rejuvenate your appearance and boost your confidence. From advanced skin care procedures to body contouring solutions, our team is dedicated to helping you achieve your aesthetic goals.

Rejuvenate Your Skin for a Radiant Glow

The increased sun exposure during summer can take a toll on your skin, leading to issues such as hyperpigmentation, fine lines, and uneven texture. To combat these concerns, consider the following treatments:

• DiamondGlow® Facial: This advanced skin-resurfacing treatment combines exfoliation, extraction, and infusion of condition-specific serums to improve skin health and appearance. DiamondGlow® gently removes the outermost layer of dead skin cells and debris, allowing for better absorption of skin care products and stimulating collagen production
• HydraFacial®: HydraFacial® first cleanses and exfoliates to uncover a fresh layer of skin. The extract and hydrate phase of the treatment removes debris from pores with painless suction and applies moisturizers to nourish and quench parched skin. Finally, antioxidants and peptides are applied to saturate the skin with beneficial nutrients, enhancing your skin’s brilliance.
• Morpheus8: This fractional skin treatment stimulates collagen production by targeting deeper layers of the skin. Morpheus8 can be used on areas such as the face, periorbital area, abdomen, thighs, legs, and buttocks to remodel tissue and reveal a more youthful appearance.

Achieve Your Ideal Summer Body

In addition to skin care, body contouring treatments can help you achieve a toned and sculpted physique. MetroDerm offers several non-invasive options.

• CoolSculpting®: This FDA-cleared procedure uses cryolipolysis technology to safely and effectively reduce fat cells in targeted areas. CoolSculpting® is non-invasive, requires no downtime, and does not involve surgery, anesthesia, or incisions.
• CoolTone®: Utilizing magnetic muscle stimulation, CoolTone® induces involuntary muscle contractions to tone, firm, and strengthen muscles. It’s an excellent solution for enhancing muscle definition in areas such as the abdomen, buttocks, and thighs.
• BodyTite®: For those seeking more significant fat reduction and skin tightening, BodyTite® offers a minimally invasive solution. This single treatment coagulates fat and contours tissue, providing dramatic results previously only achieved through more invasive surgical procedures.

Protect and Nourish Your Skin

Maintaining healthy skin during summer also involves adopting protective measures:

Sun Protection: Reduce your exposure to the sun, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher and reapply every two hours while outdoors. Ensure the product blocks both UVA and UVB radiation for comprehensive protection.

Hydration: Use a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated. Hydrated skin is more resilient against environmental stressors and maintains a youthful appearance.

Preparing your skin and body for summer is a multifaceted approach that involves professional treatments, protective skincare, and healthy lifestyle choices. At MetroDerm, we are committed to providing personalized care tailored to your unique needs. Our team of experts is here to guide you through the process, ensuring you achieve radiant skin and a confident body just in time for summer.

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) treatments have become a popular choice for individuals seeking to address various skin concerns without invasive procedures. At MetroDerm, serving the Atlanta metro area, we offer IPL treatments tailored to meet the unique needs of our diverse patient community.

What is IPL?

IPL utilizes broad-spectrum light to target specific skin issues such as pigmentation irregularities, vascular lesions, and unwanted hair. Unlike traditional lasers that emit a single wavelength, IPL emits multiple wavelengths, allowing it to address a range of skin concerns simultaneously. This versatility makes IPL treatments suitable for various skin types and conditions.

Benefits of IPL Treatments at MetroDerm

At The Center for Plastic Surgery we are committed to providing personalized care that aligns with the aesthetic goals of our patients. Our IPL treatments offer several benefits:

• Non-Invasive Procedure: IPL treatments are non-surgical, involving minimal discomfort and downtime, allowing patients to resume daily activities promptly.
• Versatility: The broad-spectrum light can address multiple skin concerns in a single session, enhancing treatment efficiency.
• Customization: With adjustable settings and various handpieces, treatments can be tailored to individual skin types and conditions, ensuring optimal results.
• Safety: Our experienced dermatologists utilize advanced IPL technology to ensure safe and effective treatments, prioritizing patient safety and comfort.

Why Choose The Center for Plastic Surgery at MetroDerm for Your IPL Treatment?

MetroDerm is a leading Dermatology and Plastic Surgery center in the Atlanta metro area, offering a comprehensive range of Medical and Cosmetic Dermatology services. Our team of Board-Certified Dermatologists, Plastic Surgeons and Aestheticians are dedicated to providing personalized care and achieving exceptional results. We utilize state-of-the-art technology and stay abreast of the latest advancements in dermatological treatments to ensure our patients receive the best possible care.

IPL treatments at MetroDerm offer a safe, effective, and non-invasive solution for various skin concerns. Our commitment to personalized care and advanced technology ensures that each patient receives treatments tailored to their unique needs. If you’re considering IPL therapy, we invite you to schedule a consultation with our experienced team to explore how we can help you achieve your aesthetic goals.

OUR AUTHORS

​Dr. Tiffany Alexander is a Board-Certified Dermatologist specializing in Medical and Cosmetic Dermatology at MetroDerm’s Lilburn and Buckhead locations. ​

Dr. Long Ly is a Board-Certified Dermatologist specializing in Medical and Cosmetic Dermatology, as well as skin cancer treatments, at MetroDerm’s Alpharetta, Atlanta-Sandy Springs, and Buckhead locations.

Both Dermatologists are accepting new patients – schedule appointments with them from the convenience of your mobile or desktop computer.

RAISING AWARENESS ABOUT SKIN CANCER: TIPS TO HELP PREVENT, KEY LEARNINGS ABOUT DETECTION AND AVAILABLE TREATMENTS

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States, with one in five people diagnosed by the age of 70. While it is highly treatable when detected early, many misconceptions still surround this disease. “Skin cancer is one of the few cancers we can see with the naked eye, which makes early detection incredibly powerful. A regular full skin exam and regular at-home skin checks can be critical to one’s wellbeing,” shares Board-Certified Dermatologist [insert dr. name]. Every May, Dermatologists around the country band together to help raise awareness about skin cancer.

Types of Skin Cancer and Associated Risk Factors

The three primary types of skin cancer are Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC), Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC), and Melanoma. Each type has distinct characteristics, risk factors, and levels of severity.

Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) 

BCC is the most common form of skin cancer and originates in the basal cell layer of the epidermis.

Risk factors for BCC include:

• Intense, intermittent sun exposure leading to sunburns
• Family history of skin cancer
• Immunosuppression
• Fair complexion that burns easily
• Blistering sunburns in childhood
• Use of indoor tanning beds, which increase the risk of BCC by 40–69%

Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) 

SCC is the second most common type of skin cancer, developing in the squamous cells of the epidermis.

Risk factors for SCC include:

• Chronic exposure to ultraviolet radiation (UVR)
• Immunosuppression
• Aging
• High-risk Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infections, which can lead to SCC of the genitalia

Melanoma 

Melanoma is less common but is the most serious type of skin cancer, as it is more likely to spread if not detected early. The lifetime risk of melanoma in North America is 1 in 60 individuals.

Risk factors for melanoma include:

• UV light exposure from the sun or tanning beds
• Fair skin and a history of childhood sunburns
• Family history of melanoma
• Weakened immune system
• Certain gene mutations
• Having a large number of moles, atypical moles, or congenital moles

Recognizing Melanoma: The ABCDEs of Early Detection

Early detection of melanoma is critical, as survival rates are significantly higher when caught in its early stages. The ABCDE rule is a useful guide for identifying potential melanomas:

• Asymmetry: One half of the mole does not match the other.
• Border: Irregular, scalloped, or poorly defined edges.
• Color: Variations in color, including black, brown, tan, red, or white.
• Diameter: A mole larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser).
• Evolving: Any change in size, shape, color, or elevation.

If a mole exhibits any of these characteristics, scheduling an examination with a dermatologist is essential.

Commonly Overlooked Areas for Skin Checks 

Monthly self-examinations are among the most effective ways to detect skin cancer early. However, many people forget to check areas where skin cancer can develop, including:

• Scalp – Part the hair and inspect the scalp, especially if hair is thinning.
• Behind the ears – These areas are often exposed to the sun but rarely checked.
• Between the toes and soles of the feet – Melanoma can develop in these hidden areas.
• Nail beds – Dark streaks or changes in the nail could indicate melanoma.
• Genital area – SCC can develop here, particularly in cases related to HPV.
• Mouth and eyes – Regular dental and eye exams can help detect abnormalities in these regions.

How Sun Exposure Causes Skin Cancer

The sun emits ultraviolet radiation (UVR), which damages the DNA in skin cells, leading to uncontrolled cell growth and the formation of malignant tumors. Just one blistering sunburn in childhood or adolescence doubles the risk of developing melanoma later in life.

Additionally, indoor tanning beds expose users to UV radiation levels 10 to 15 times higher than the midday sun, significantly increasing the risk of all skin cancers.

Importance of Early Detection

Skin cancer, unlike many other cancers, is visible, making early detection more feasible. The five-year survival rate for melanoma is 99% when detected early, but this drops to 68% if it spreads to lymph nodes and 30% if it reaches distant organs.

Regular self-examinations and annual skin checks with a dermatologist can help catch potential cancers before they become life-threatening.

Treatment Options for Skin Cancer

Treatment depends on the type of skin cancer, its size, depth, location, and whether it has spread. Dermatologists consider these factors when determining the best treatment plan.

Common treatments for skin cancer include: 

• Excision – Surgically removing the cancerous tissue.
• Mohs Micrographic Surgery – The gold standard in cancer treatment, this is a precise technique that removes cancer layer by layer while preserving healthy tissue.
• Curettage and Electrodesiccation – Scraping off the cancerous growth and using heat to destroy any remaining cells.
• Topical Medications – Certain creams can treat early-stage skin cancers.
• Radiation Therapy – Used when surgery is not an option.
• Chemotherapy or Immunotherapy – Used for advanced cases that have spread.

Best Practices to Help Prevent Skin Cancer

While completely avoiding sun exposure is impractical, these steps can significantly reduce the risk of skin cancer. Dr. [insert name] reminds us, “Sunscreen isn’t just for beach days—it should be a daily habit. A broad-spectrum SPF of 30 or higher is one of the easiest and most effective ways to prevent skin cancer.”

• Seek shade whenever possible, especially between 10 AM and 4 PM.
• Wear protective clothing such as long-sleeved shirts, pants, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses.
• Use broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every day, even on cloudy days.  Dr. Ly reminds us, “Sunscreen isn’t just for beach days—it should be a daily habit. A broad-spectrum SPF of 30 or higher is one of the easiest and most effective ways to prevent skin cancer.”
• Reapply sunscreen every two hours and after swimming or sweating.
• Avoid indoor tanning beds, which expose the skin to excessive UV radiation. “Indoor tanning beds expose the skin to dangerously high levels of UV radiation, significantly increasing the risk of melanoma. There’s truly no such thing as a ‘safe’ tan,” shares Dr.Ly
• Be extra cautious at high altitudes, where UV radiation is more intense.

Reliable Resources and Next Steps

For accurate information and support, organizations such as the American Academy of Dermatology and the American Cancer Society provide valuable resources for patients and caregivers.

If you have concerns about your skin, schedule an appointment with any of MetroDerm’s Dermatologists for a full skin exam. Early detection and preventive care are key to maintaining healthy skin and reducing the risk of skin cancer. “Your skin is your largest organ, and it deserves regular checkups just like the rest of your body. “Monthly self-exams and annual dermatologist visits can make all the difference in catching skin cancer early,” Dr. Ly reminds us.

June marks Acne Awareness Month, a pivotal time dedicated to educating individuals about acne—a prevalent skin condition that affects millions globally. At MetroDerm, serving the Greater Atlanta area, we recognize the profound impact acne can have on both physical appearance and emotional well-being. Our commitment is to provide comprehensive care and effective solutions tailored to each patient’s unique needs.

Understanding Acne

Acne is a complex skin disorder that occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells, leading to whiteheads, blackheads, or pimples. While commonly associated with teenagers, acne can affect individuals of all ages. Factors contributing to acne development include hormonal fluctuations, genetics, diet, stress, and environmental influences.

The Importance of Acne Awareness Month

Acne Awareness Month serves as a crucial period to dispel myths, promote understanding, and highlight the availability of effective treatments. By raising awareness, we aim to encourage individuals to seek professional care rather than resorting to ineffective over-the-counter remedies or enduring the condition in silence.

MetroDerm’s Approach to Acne Treatment

At MetroDerm, we offer a multifaceted approach to acne treatment, ensuring that each patient receives personalized care. Our services include:

• Medical Dermatology Services: Our board-certified dermatologists assess the severity and type of acne to recommend appropriate medical treatments. This may involve topical or oral medications designed to reduce inflammation, combat bacterial infection, and regulate oil production.
• Cosmetic Dermatology Treatments: Beyond medical interventions, we provide cosmetic procedures aimed at improving skin texture and appearance. Treatments such as chemical peels, laser therapy, and microneedling can be effective in reducing acne scars and promoting skin rejuvenation.

Preventative Measures and Skin Care Tips

While professional treatments are essential, incorporating effective skin care routines can significantly aid in managing and preventing acne. Here are some Dermatologist-recommended tips:

1. Consistent Skin Care Routine: Cleanse your face twice daily with a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser to remove excess oil and impurities.
2. Avoid Over-Washing: Excessive cleansing can strip the skin of natural oils, prompting increased oil production and potential breakouts.
3. Use Acne-Fighting Ingredients: Incorporate products containing salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide to help unclog pores and reduce inflammation.
4. Hands Off: Refrain from touching your face to prevent the transfer of bacteria and oils that can exacerbate acne.
5. Regularly Change Pillowcases: Clean pillowcases reduce exposure to oil and bacteria buildup, minimizing the risk of breakouts.

The Emotional Impact of Acne

Beyond physical symptoms, acne can profoundly affect self-esteem and mental health. Studies have linked acne to increased risks of depression and social anxiety. Recognizing and addressing these emotional aspects is a critical component of comprehensive acne care. At MetroDerm, we strive to support our patients holistically, acknowledging the interplay between skin health and overall well-being.

Why Choose MetroDerm?

With over two decades of service in the Greater Atlanta area, MetroDerm has established itself as a leader in Dermatological and Plastic Surgery services. Our team comprises Board-Certified Dermatologists, Dermatopathologists, Mohs Surgeons, and Plastic Surgeons, all dedicated to delivering best-in-class patient care. We emphasize a patient-centric approach, ensuring treatment plans are tailored to individual needs and goals.

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