Blog Archives
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.
Next Page »Skin Cancer Risk Reduced With Daily Oral Nicotinamide
As the saying goes, “You are what you eat” and hence, if there is a simple supplement that has no significant side effects and prevents skin cancer, then this is a major practical addition to our skin health regimens. Nicotinamide, also known as Niacinamide is a water-soluble form of Vitamin B3 that has been found naturally in meat, fish, nuts, grains & legumes, and is a key component of the glycolysis pathway, by generating Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) for adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production. It has been known to have beneficial anti-inflammatory effects improving acne, rosacea, melasma and some blistering disorders.In a landmark study published by The New England Journal of Medicine 2015: 373:1618-26, the authors showed convincingly that over a 12 month period taking Nicotinamide, 386 study patients experienced a 23% reduction in developing nonmelanoma skin cancers (basal cell carcinomas and squamous cell carcinomas) and actinic keratoses (pre-skin cancers) versus those on placebo. The study participants took 500mg twice daily and there did not appear to be any adverse side-effects. However, it is not recommended for those with chronic kidney disease nor those who are pregnant.
Nicotinamide should not be confused with Niacin, sometimes recommended for lower cholesterol which has been associated with flushing, headaches and elevation of liver enzymes.
This skin cancer-reducing supplement is not an oral sunscreen and does not replace other sun protection guidance (sunscreens with an SPF of over 40, protective clothing, hats, yearly skin exams and avoiding the hot, mid-day sun.) These are all the mainstays to protect yourself from the sun and skin cancers. Given the safety profile of Nicotinamide, and its protective effects and positive feedback from our patients, I wholeheartedly recommend since it can significantly reduce the incidence of both actinic keratoses and nonmelanoma skin cancers.
Steven L. Greene MD, Advanced Dermatology and Laser Institute of Seattle. Next Page »
The Benefits of a Chemical Peel
Think of it as gently peeling away the signs of aging. Chemical peel treatment at Advanced Dermatology and Laser Institute of Seattle can beautifully improve the tone, texture, and overall health of your skin with a convenient, in-office treatment.
More »
What are Dermal Fillers?
Dermal fillers can address numerous facial cosmetic issues from wrinkles to fine lines to loss of volume. They can help restore a youthful, vigorous appearance to your face and improve the health of your skin.
At Advanced Dermatology and Laser Institute of Seattle, Dr. Steven Greene has more than 25 years of experience helping his patients revitalize their appearance. He and his team continually educate themselves on the latest dermatological treatments and techniques so they can give you the best possible results. Read on to learn more about what dermal fillers are, how they work, and the dermal filler options that Dr. Greene and his team offer.
Next Page »The Future of Cosmetic Consultations
Before beginning cosmetic skincare treatment (i.e. chemical peels, laser skin resurfacing), the most important appointment to schedule with your dermatologist is a consultation. The consultation allows both you and your doctor to discuss any skin-related concerns, prioritize these concerns, and finally–formulate an effective treatment plan to resolve your concerns. Before your consultation begins, ask yourself, “What are my long-term goals regarding skincare?”
Next Page »Ask the Expert: Can You Get Skin Cancer “Where the Sun Doesn’t Shine?” Should You Remove All Clothing for a Skin Exam?
Yes, and yes again! While skin cancers are less commonly diagnosed in areas that are normally shielded from the sun, they can and do develop there. There are a number of factors that play a role in the development of skin cancer — including genetics and environmental pollution — that have nothing to do with the sun’s rays. One of the reasons why a complete skin exam is so valuable is that your dermatologist will be able to notice changes that may be normally hidden under clothing. This way, any suspected skin cancers can be diagnosed and treated promptly. Don’t worry, your doctor will respect your modesty with an exam gown and/or cloth draping.
Your Guide to PRP: A Nonsurgical Hair Loss Solution
Did you know that the average person loses around 100 hairs from their scalp in a single day? Healthy hair grows in cycles and it’s completely natural to lose a few strands. But when the natural cycle is disrupted, it can lead to embarrassing hair thinning or hair loss. Thankfully, there is an exciting new treatment called Platelet-Rich Plasma (or PRP) that can effectively stimulate new hair growth.
More »
Get Rid of That Double Chin with Kybella®!
The double chin can be a real confidence killer. It can leave you feeling embarrassed and ashamed, causing you to shy away from photos and cover it up with certain outfits. But you don’t have to these negative effects any longer. With Kybella®, you can safely and effectively reduce the appearance of the double chin without the need for surgery. Here we’ll dive into the most frequently asked questions Dr. Greene gets about this remarkable treatment. More »
Specials
Next Page »This Just In: Dr. Greene has Achieved Top Doctor Status on RealSelf!
Over the past several years, RealSelf has become a popular online community for those interested in learning more about plastic surgery and other cosmetic treatments. It’s a vast network of resources like before and after photos, forums where you can ask and answer questions, and information about different procedures, techniques, and qualified providers in your area. This year, we are so happy to announce that our very own Dr. Steven Greene has joined the exclusive Top Doctor club on RealSelf.com! More »
Next Page »
