Got Keloids? Cryoshape Can Help
At Advanced Dermatology and Laser Institute of Seattle, advances in dermatological science offer a safe, effective solution for removing keloids and helping you achieve the appearance you want.
But what exactly are keloids? When trauma occurs to the skin, the body’s natural supply of collagen is stimulated, resulting in the formation of firm, rubbery nodules known as keloids.
With innovative Cryoshape treatments, it’s safe and easy to remove these formations from the body.
What Are Keloids?
Keloids predominantly occur in patients with skin of color. They tend to form at the site of a piercing, burn, acne, surgical scars, or even from a particularly unpleasant insect bite.
Common areas for keloid growth include the earlobes, chest, back, and shoulders. Although keloids are benign (non-cancerous) and not contagious, they can be very painful and aesthetically displeasing. In severe cases, untreated keloids can hinder the body’s ability to move, impacting quality of life.
Treatment Options
Despite various treatments like pressure therapy, steroid injections, lasers, and surgical excision, minimal outcomes have been achieved in keloid removal. With the Cryoshape device, however, patients are finding much better results for getting rid of this unpleasant skin condition.
Using a hand-held probe, Cryotherapy introduces liquid nitrogen into the keloid, freezing and eliminating unwanted scar tissue from the inside out. Unlike other methods mentioned above, Cryoshape deeply penetrates the scar tissue, removing the keloid while reducing the chance of it growing back.
This treatment empowers patients to break free from this frustrating skin condition and reclaim their self-confidence.
Advantages of Cryoshape Treatment
- Customized Treatment: Each patient’s Cryotherapy session is tailored to meet their needs, including the size, location, and number of keloids being treated.
- Minimal Discomfort: The procedure is virtually painless thanks to the application of local anesthesia to the treated area.
- Quick Recovery: After the procedure, patients experience rapid alleviation of pain and itching, allowing them to resume their daily activities in no time.
- Effective Keloid Removal: Cryoshape reaches deep tissue levels, freezing and destroying the keloid to prevent re-growth and provide long-lasting results.
Schedule a Consultation Today
Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Greene at Advanced Dermatology and Laser Institute of Seattle has successfully treated numerous patients suffering from keloids with the Cryoshape device.
If you’re seeking a breakthrough in keloid removal, schedule an appointment with Dr. Greene for Cryotherapy treatment. Contact their clinic at 206-402-4797.
5 Ways to Treat or Remove Scars
Scars serve as our body’s way of keeping us safe and reminders of our past. However, scars can develop in shapes and ways that make us feel uncomfortable or affect our self-image.
That’s why practices like our team at Advanced Dermatology and Laser Institute provide many options for scar revision and removal. In this post, we’ll be exploring the five different options that our staff offers so you can better understand which is right for your needs.
Skin Laser Treatment
Laser treatments are used in a wide range of skin treatments, including scar revision. We use a Cynosure Icon 1540 nm Erbium glass XD/XF laser designed to coagulate the scar tissue and induce the body’s healing response. This will precisely damage the skin and allow the body to replace the scar tissue with new and healthy skin.
This type of treatment is effective for keloid, atrophic, and hypertrophic scarring. However, other lasers like the Excel V KTP Laser and Erbium: Yag can also be used to treat scar tissue.
Cryoshape Cryotherapy
Cryoshape is a type of cryotherapy designed to effectively treat keloid scars. The Cryoshape device utilizes liquid nitrogen to freeze the keloid scar tissue for removal. The entire process takes under 45 minutes, is minimally invasive, and is virtually painless.
Microneedling
Microneedling is a common cosmetic treatment used to induce collagen production in a treatment area. Our staff uses microneedling to treat smaller scars like acne scars that can benefit from increased collagen production. Microneedling is often done in a series of treatments to produce the best results by giving the body time to heal in-between appointments.
Subcision
Subcision is a minor surgical procedure designed to treat scars that depress the skin. These “valley” scars are corrected by surgically cutting the fibrous bands of connective scar tissue. The skin will then be able to smooth and become level without the tension.
Platelet-Rich plasma
Platelet-rich plasma treatments, also known as PRP, use your own blood’s plasma as a way to stimulate the body’s healing and growth. PRP could be used to stimulate the production of collagen and improve the appearance of your scar.
Scar Revision Treatment in Seattle, WA
The Advanced Dermatology and Laser Institute, led by Dr. Steven Greene, is proud to offer a variety of treatment options for scar revision. Dr. Greene has over 25 years of experience and brings expertise and care to every procedure. If you’re considering scar revision treatment, contact Advanced Dermatology and Laser Institute at (206) 402-4797 to book an appointment today.
Enhance Your Eyes with LATISSE®
They say the eyes are the windows to the soul. While that may be up for debate, the eyes are what people see first when speaking to you. Naturally, this means taking care of your eyes and eyelashes greatly affects your appearance. However, some people can struggle with growing thick, lush, and dark eyelashes. That being said, eyelash density can be restored by treatments like LATISSE®. LATISSE is a cosmetic treatment designed to resolve eyelash inadequacy and restore lush eyelashes. Let’s take a closer look at what causes a loss of eyelashes and how LATISSE can help.
Causes of Losing Eyelashes
The loss of eyelashes is often caused by leaving eye cosmetics on for too long or from eyelash extensions. Leaving eye cosmetics on too long can damage the eyelashes and lead to a lack of eyelashes. Eyelash extensions often require eyelash glue that sticks to the natural eyelashes. Over time, the removal of eyelash extensions can remove eyelashes. Some medical conditions could be causing your eyelashes to fall out as well. One common one is blepharitis. Blepharitis is the inflammation and swelling of the eyelids due to clogged oil glands. This inflammation can cause issues with the eyelash follicles.
What Is LATISSE?
LATISSE is an innovative treatment designed to restore lost eyelashes and eyelash density. LATISSE is a prescription treatment that is applied every night at home. The LATISSE solution will be added to a small brush and applied to the eyelash line. LATISSE is the only FDA-approved solution for eyelash hair loss. The results will not be immediately noticeable. Instead, your eyelashes will grow and become denser over time. You can expect the treatment to take around eight weeks to show results and up to week sixteen before you see complete results. It’s important to note that LATISSE is not a permanent solution to whatever is causing your eyelash loss. Once you stop taking LATISSE, your lashes will likely return to their original appearance over the next few months.
Seeking Treatment
Taking care of your lashes is essential for radiant and stunning eyes. That’s why we offer LATISSE treatments at Advanced Dermatology and Laser Institute. Our team of doctors ensures that every treatment is efficient and administered with care. We’d love to help you with any dermatology or eyelash issues. Contact Advanced Dermatology and Laser Institute at 703-215-9152 today.
So Doctor…Why is My Neck Aging so Quickly?
The skin of the neck is one of the most fragile and vulnerable areas of our body subject to the agin process. It has fewer moisture retaining glands so skin dryness is an early skin sign especially during the dry times fo the year such as the fall and the winter months of the year putting our patients with inflammatory skin disorders such as eczema and psoriasis at greater risk for clinical flares.
Sun exposure without sufficient sun precautions such as wearing hats and sunscreen cause natural weakening and decline of the neck skin barrier increasing the risk of skin cancer. The neck also has fewer stem cells and other regenerative components that help repair the neck skin when exposed to environmental stresses including pollution and UV damage.
To improve your skin’s firmbess, consider trying skin care approaches including serums that contain antioxidants, such as Vitamin C that turn over damaged skin cells that is caused by photodamage. Retinods (which are related to Vitamin A) help stimulate structural collagen production in regular use.
Poor posture and constant use of a handhel mobile devices and laptops increase the risk of neck skin changes referred to as “necklace line” or “tech neck” with loose skin under the chin. To prevent neck lines from forming (or deepening) it is recommended to posotion your computer and phone so you are not bending and craning your neck for prolonged periods of time.
Weakening of the platysmal muscles in front and the sides of the neck can also cause vertical banding which can appear during the aging process. These bands can be reduced and softened temporarily with neuromodulators such as Botox injections.
There is ongoing concern of the daily effects of UVA (deep penetrating), UVB (superficial penetrating) rays from sunlight, which can damage the cells that are responsible for producing collagen and elastin, two proteins that help keep your skin’s structure intact. Recently, there is concern of the adverse energy exposure emitted from computer screens with its potentially harmful cumulative effects on skin aging and contributing to photosensitivity. Many of our patients work directly in front of 2 and 3 large computer screens for more than 8 hours per day which can amplify the potentially harmful effects on the skin contributing to skin laxity, crepiness and sagginess.
If you are looking to aggressively address signs of older saggy skin on the neck, then book a consultation with our Board Certified Dermatologist Dr. Steve Greene at Advanced Dermatology and Laser Institute of Seattle to learn more about newest treatment service called Sofwave. By harnessing the gentle but very focused Ultrasound waves one can undergo a treatment that stimulates Collagen, Elastic and Hyaluronic Acis which both tighten the treayed skin and provides a noticeable lift that is highly desirable. This is currently being offered for the neck and face creating better definition of the jawline and a gentle lift of the eyebrows. For the best results is it recommended to undergo two treatments, three months apart. Annual maintenance treatsments are recommended. Eary clinical results are seen within 1-2 weeks and continue to progress over 3-6 months. The treatment is “color blind” and hence, can be safely performed in all skin types, all seasons of the year. There is no clinical downtime, unlike most other rejuvenation treatments of its kind. No bleeding, skin drainage, redness or puffiness occues after the procedure. Sofwave offers its healthy clinical effects 1.5 mm in depth in the skin dermin over a large surface area without damage to deeper structures such as nerves, blood vessels nor fat and can complement the rejuvenation effects of Botox, Dermal Fillers, and other laser treatments.
The Benefits of Laser Hair Removal for Supple Summer Skin
Summertime is prime time for showing off how well you take care of yourself. Sleeveless dresses, short skirts, and bathing suits are mainstays for summer fashion. Healthy skin is something that many women want to show off as a summer accessory. One way that some women like to do this is through hair removal.
Laser hair removal is a great way to remove unwanted hair. The procedure has the ability to remove hair without leaving unsightly rashes. It makes skin appear smooth and touchable. Explore its other benefits as well:
Other Benefits of Laser Hair Removal
It Saves Time
If you are a person who finds it necessary to shave often, laser hair removal can save you time. The results of laser hair treatment are not permanent, but after doing it for a period of time, you may find you have to do it less frequently. The process definitely requires less upkeep than shaving, plucking, or waxing.
It Can Work All Over
If you are like most people, you find it hard to reach certain areas where you need to remove hair. Laser hair removal can reach those areas with ease. It works for hair on the face, arms, chest, back, legs, and bikini line.
It Works Well for Most All Skin Types
Laser hair removal works well for many skin tones and types. Its flexibility allows many different types of people to make an appointment without fear of poor results. It also allows all types of people to enjoy the ease of the process instead of being underserved.
It Lessens In-Grown Hairs
Using a laser to remove hair means you are not breaking it off at the surface. Therefore the root weakens which diminishes its ability to regenerate hair. This lessens the development of in-grown hairs which look sloppy in-between treatments and can also cause pain.
These benefits indicate that laser hair removal is something you should consider if you want supple summer skin.
Contact Advanced Dermatology and Laser Institute for a Consult
If you live in the Seattle, Washington area and want to enjoy the benefits of laser hair removal this summer, you should contact Advanced Dermatology and Laser hair institute for a consultation. Board Certified Dermatologist Dr. Steven Greene and his team want you to feel stunning when you show off your skin. Call us at 206- 402-4797 or visit our website at www.advanceddermatologyseattle.com and begin to feel beautiful today.
Sun Damage: Prevention and Treatment
UV rays have a powerful impact on the health and appearance of the skin. Whether from the sun or artificial sources, UV rays penetrate deeply into the dermis, damaging collagen fibers and accelerating age-related skin concerns, including lines and wrinkles, dry and leathery skin, solar elastosis, actinic keratosis, and solar lentigo (sun spots).
Damage from UV rays is cumulative, often beginning when we are young and less diligent about sun protection. However, as we age, protecting our skin from further damage becomes increasingly essential, even in cloudier places like Seattle, even when inside.
Because UV rays can penetrate cloud coverage and windows, it is vital to wear sunscreen daily, though not all sunscreens are equally safe or effective. We have carefully selected the most efficacious formulas for sale at our office. We will happily help you choose the best fit during your next visit.
Although windows cannot prevent UV exposure, staying indoors from 10 am to 2 pm on sunny days is best. This is when the sun is at its most potent. When you go outside, wear protective clothing, including a hat and sunglasses, and remain in the shade as much as possible. All of these things can help to prevent further sun damage from occurring.
Correcting Sun Damaged Skin
Nearly everyone will experience sun damaged skin at some point. Fortunately, several options can help to improve the appearance and comfort of skin that UV rays have damaged. Some of the most popular options include:
- Chemical Peel
- Microdermabrasion
- Microneedling
- Cryotherapy
- IPL Therapy
- Laser Skin Resurfacing
These treatments work in different ways and to varying degrees to address issues as diverse as textural irregularities, hyperpigmentation, rough and dry skin, and sun spots. Depending on the treatment, some can also soften fine lines and deep wrinkles, tighten the skin, remove acne scars, and eliminate stretch marks.
Many treatments available for sun damaged skin are safe for all skin types and tones. However, each is designed to address different concerns. A one-on-one consultation with board-certified dermatologist Dr. Steven Greene is the best way to learn which treatment will produce the best results.
Are you ready to learn more? Call Advanced Dermatology and Laser Institute of Seattle at 206-402-4797 to schedule your consultation today.
What are the Most Effective Treatments for Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that can interfere with daily activities, make sleeping uncomfortable, and produce unsightly rashes and sores that itch, burn, and bleed. The condition can also alter chemicals like serotonin in the brain, increasing risks for depression.
Plaque psoriasis, the most common type, often appears on the scalp, lower back, elbows, and knees, but other types can impact the trunk, arms and legs, palms, soles of the feet, and even toe and fingernails. While most people only experience one type of psoriasis at a time, it is possible to have more than one type concurrently, and up to 30 percent of people with psoriasis are at risk of developing psoriatic arthritis, a condition marked by swelling of tendons and joints, general stiffness, and increasing fatigue.
There is no cure for psoriasis, but various methods can treat flare-ups. The correct treatment for your needs will depend on your type of psoriasis, how much of your body has been impacted, the length of time you have had the condition, and what other treatments you have tried. The best way to determine which psoriasis treatment is right for you is with a consultation and evaluation with board-certified dermatologist Dr. Steven Greene.
Psoriasis Treatments
Topical medications are often the first line of treatment for psoriasis. This may include OTC remedies such as products containing aloe vera, coal tar, and salicylic acid, along with prescription medications containing corticosteroids, retinoids, and calcineurin inhibitors. Some of these, such as retinoids, may also be administered via injection to treat psoriasis.
In addition to retinoid injections, other oral and injectable medications commonly used to treat psoriasis include cyclosporine, methotrexate, biologics, and steroids. These may be administered daily, weekly, or monthly and can be used to support other treatments, such as topical ointments and gels.
Dr. Greene is Here to Help
If you have psoriasis, help is available. Please call Advanced Dermatology and Laser Center of Seattle at 206-402-4797 to schedule a consultation and learn more. Dr. Greene is a board-certified dermatologist serving Mercer Island, Redmond, Bellevue, and all nearby areas of Washington.
Does Laser Therapy Work for Hair Restoration?
If you are among the millions of men and women currently experiencing hair loss, you may have found yourself asking, “Does laser therapy really work for hair restoration?” With so many options now available, this is certainly a reasonable question.
In our years of experience and practice (and in clinical studies), we are confident in saying yes, laser hair restoration works. It is a safe, effective, and non-invasive option for treating male and female pattern baldness – and one that does not cause pain, require incisions, or necessitate a daily routine, making it an ideal solution for people interested in growing thicker, stronger, healthier hair.
Alone or combined with other therapies, including PRP hair restoration, laser hair restoration offers remarkable results. Use the contact form on this page or call our Seattle office at 206-402-4797 to schedule a consultation with our board-certified dermatologist to learn if it might be the right solution for you.
At Home or In Office?
We offer two options for laser hair restoration, both of which provide noticeable and predictable results. These are:
- iRestore™, a take-home laser hair restoration treatment that combines two different low-level light modalities to penetrate deeply into the scalp and promote greater blood flow to hair shafts. iRestore stimulates the growth of thicker and healthier hair while also reducing future hair loss and can be completed on your schedule in your own home. Gentle yet effective, results with iRestore typically peak at six months, with sustained results following regular use.
- KeraLase™, a treatment that combines a patented growth factor serum with laser therapy to increase blood supply, improve scalp health, and promote natural hair growth. KeraLase serum (KeraFactor) contains seven bioidentical growth factors clinically shown to improve numerous scalp conditions and encourage the development of thicker, stronger hair. Pre-conditioning the scalp with laser therapy allows for deeper and more targeted penetration of the growth serum, helping to ensure the most pleasing results. Daily application of the serum and laser treatments every six to twelve months allow KeraLase to offer continuously satisfactory results.
Dr. Greene understands how frustrating it can be to find a hair restoration option that works. He is here to listen to your concerns, assess your hair loss, and provide straightforward information about your options to help guide you toward the most effective treatment for your needs.
Call Advanced Dermatology and Laser Institute of Seattle at 206-402-4797 to schedule your consultation today. We welcome patients from Bellevue, Redmond, Tacoma, and all nearby areas of Washington.
Is PRP Hair Restoration Permanent?
Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) is a concentration of proteins derived from the blood. While the mechanism behind its efficacy is not entirely understood, growth factors found in PRP are clinically proven to speed the natural healing response, encourage wound healing, and decrease pain. PRP is also an outstanding solution for thinning hair.
PRP assists with hair regrowth in two ways: it improves blood supply to the scalp and hair follicles while also increasing the thickness of the hair shaft. PRP can produce remarkable results within just a few short months by encouraging blood flow and enhancing follicle density. However, these results will be temporary. To maintain your PRP hair regrowth results, you will need to receive touch-up treatments every three to six months.
Hair Loss Treatments
Hair loss is incredibly common. A full 80 percent of men and 50 percent of women will experience hair thinning as they age. And while several treatments can provide long-lasting hair restoration, there are no permanent solutions for hair loss. However, with routine maintenance, there are several options that can help reverse and delay the thinning of hair.
PRP is one of the safest and most effective treatments for hair loss, but it is only one of many. Combining PRP with other hair restoration treatments can improve results and final outcomes.
At the Advanced Dermatology and Laser Institute of Seattle, our board-certified dermatologist offers a carefully selected range of hair restoration treatments. Depending on your unique needs and desires, he may recommend PRP alone or in combination with:
- iRestore™. This at-home hair restoration treatment uses lasers to stimulate cell metabolism rates and increases ATP to stop hair loss and encourage the regrowth of thicker, healthier hair
- KeraLase™. A combination therapy, KeraLase combines low-level laser therapy with a one-of-a-kind peptide-rich serum to stimulate the regeneration of denser hair follicles
- KeraFactor. For use at home, KeraFactor combines proprietary hair thickening shampoo, conditioner, and serum with laser cap scalp stimulation to improve scalp health and encourage the regrowth of thicker hair
- Viviscal™. A drug-free nutritional supplement that nourishes hair follicles from the inside, promoting the growth of thicker, healthier hair
Like PRP, laser hair treatments, supplements, shampoos, and serums can do wonders, but do not offer a permanent solution for hair loss. Continued applications are always needed to ensure ongoing results.
To learn more about the advanced hair loss treatments at our comfortable office, please call 206-402-4797 and schedule a consultation. We welcome patients from Bellevue, Lynnwood, Mercer Island, and all nearby areas of Washington.
Treatments for Radiantly Healthy Skin
As we enter the cold winter months, how we care for our skin becomes all the more important. Even in Seattle, where the weather stays reasonably wet during the cooler months, dry indoor heat can strip skin of its moisture, resulting in cracked and chapped skin and exacerbating issues like eczema.
At Advanced Dermatology and Laser Institute, our board-certified dermatologist and highly-trained staff are here to personalize your treatment options and address your exact concerns to help you achieve radiant and healthy-looking skin. This winter, consider treatments that combat changes to the skin, encourage healing, and create a healthier-looking glow.
Top Aesthetic Treatments in Seattle
We offer a comprehensive range of cosmetic dermatology services, each designed to address specific issues. Some of our most popular treatments correct problems such as:
- Wrinkles. With wrinkle relaxers, such as BOTOX® Cosmetic, and dermal fillers, including JUVÉDERM®, Restylane® and Belotero®, we can soften fine lines and deep wrinkles to restore a fuller and softer complexion.
- Skin Laxity. Sagging jowls, droopy cheeks, and double chin may respond well to fillers, injectable treatments such as Kybella®, laser skin tightening, and more.
- Uneven Pigmentation. Microneedling, chemical peel, and HydraFacial® can correct skin tone irregularities to restore an even and consistent appearance.
- Dry/Red Skin. From hydrating facials and dermaplaning to advanced emollients and moisturizers, we provide both in-office and take-home solutions for dry and irritated skin.
- Sun/Age Spots. Laser skin resurfacing, IPL, microdermabrasion, chemical peel, and more can erase age and sunspots, returning the skin to its most vibrant and youthful appearance.
These treatments can safely correct an impressive range of common cosmetic and skin health concerns. Their impacts can be extended or even enhanced through proper daily skin care.
We offer solutions from trusted, scientifically-backed skincare companies whose products are consistent with our standards. During your time in our care, we can discuss your home routine and the health of your skin to help you find and optimize a suitable at-home regimen.
Contact Us to Schedule an Appointment Today
If you would like more information about healing and improving the health and appearance of your skin, please call Advanced Dermatology and Laser Institute of Seattle at 206-402-4797 to schedule your initial consultation today. Dr. Greene and our staff welcome patients from Bellevue, Mercer Island, Sammamish, and all nearby areas of Washington.
