Signs to watch out for

Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer. It is dangerous because it can spread to other parts of the body, including the lung, liver, bone and brain. The earlier it is detected and removed, the more likely the treatment will be successful.

Fortunately, when found early, melanoma is highly treatable. The key to finding it early is to perform skin self-exams so that you can check your own skin for signs of this skin cancer. If you find anything suspicious looking, make an appointment with your dermatologist.

Often, the first sign of melanoma is a change in the size, shape, color, or feel of a mole. Most melanomas have a black or black-blue area. Melanoma may also appear as a new mole. It may be black, abnormal, or “ugly looking.”

Thinking of “ABCDE” can help you remember what to watch out for:

• Asymmetry: the shape of one half does not match the other
• Border: the edges are ragged, blurred or irregular
• Color: the color is uneven and may include shades of black, brown and tan
• Diameter: there is a change in size, usually an increase
• Evolving: the mole has changed over the past few weeks or months

More people are developing melanoma than ever before. This can frequently be attributed to underuse of sunscreen, the first line of defense against the condition. Members of Gen Z seem to be going back to attaining that “golden glow,” which is unfortunate. A new survey from the American Academy of Dermatology confirms that 35% of Americans, including nearly 50% of Gen Z and millennials, got sunburned last year.

In men, it is often located on the head, neck or back. In women, it is often found on the legs or lower legs. People will dark skin are less likely to develop melanoma, but when they do, it can be found under the fingernails and toenails, on the palms of the hands and on the soles of the feet.

By age 50, men are more likely than women to develop melanoma. One reason may be that men know less about skin cancer.

Researchers also believe that a major cause may lie in men’s skin. We know that men’s skin differs from women’s skin. Men have thicker skin with less fat beneath. A man’s skin also contains more collagen and elastin, fibers that give the skin firmness and keep it tight.

Research shows that these differences make men’s skin more likely to be damaged by the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. A study conducted in the Netherlands found that men’s skin reacted more intensely to UV rays than did women’s skin. A separate study reached the same conclusion.

Research also shows that a women’s skin may be better at repairing the damage caused by UV rays. Women are also more likely to use sunscreen frequently.

A family affair

Melanoma sometimes runs in families, and if you’ve had melanoma before, your risk is heightened for developing more. Long-term sun exposure, use of tanning beds and severe, blistering sunburns also increase your risk.

Can it occur in children?

Melanoma is rare in young children. Even so, there are times when a mole should be checked by your dermatologist just to be sure. Caught early, melanoma is highly treatable. To help parents find melanoma early, dermatologists want parents to know that melanoma can look different in children.

How is melanoma diagnosed?

The only way to diagnose melanoma is to remove tissue and check for cancer cells. Usually, this procedure only takes a few minutes and can be done in your doctor’s office.

How is it treated?

Surgery is the first treatment of all stages of melanoma. Other treatments include chemotherapy and radiation, biologic, and targeted therapies. Biologic therapy boosts your body’s own ability to fight cancer. Targeted therapy uses substances that attack cancer cells without harming normal cells.

“Although sun exposure certainly contributes to melanoma, genetics play a large role,” says DeSilva Dermatology’s Dr. Thushan DeSilva. “The importance of this is that melanoma can arise anywhere on the skin (scalp under hair, soles, genitals…not necessarily only sun-exposed areas) which most are unaware of. Everyone is susceptible, especially if there is a family history of melanoma.”

Is it time for you to get a checkup? Make an appointment with DeSilva Dermatology by calling (830) 331-4150.

The post What Is Melanoma? appeared first on San Antonio & Boerne Dermatologist.

DeSilva Dermatology is excited to introduce a new device — the Clarity II™ hair removal system! Clarity II™ can completely treat an area in significantly less time than other hair removal lasers. The customizable diameter of the laser is adjustable to the ideal treatment spot size. Larger areas such as the legs, chest, and back can use a larger spot size to treat more hair follicles with fewer laser passes.

How does it work?

The Clarity II enables faster and more effective treatments for all skin types. Its streamlined design simplifies the treatment process, ensuring efficiency and comfort. With its diverse range of applications, Clarity II can tackle everything from hair removal and pigmented lesions to wrinkle reduction and conditions such as rosacea, hemangiomas, telangiectasia and café au lait.

What are the benefits?

• Performs laser hair removal in half the time.
• IntelliTrak technology delivers fast, uniform coverage across larger areas.
• Temperature Sensing provides real-time feedback on skin temperature throughout
  procedures.
• Removes finer hair more effectively with exclusive shorter pulse widths (1ms & 2ms).

Will I feel discomfort during treatments?

While some patients might experience mild discomfort during the procedure, the sensation largely depends on their individual skin type, sensitivity, and the specific area undergoing treatment. To enhance patient comfort, Clarity II incorporates Temperature Sensing and advanced Skin Cooling with ICD technology.

How long does the treatment take?

Based on the treatment area and size, a session can range from five to 20 minutes.

Is there any downtime?

After treatment, patients may experience mild redness and swelling but they can immediately return to normal activities. Redness can be covered with light makeup if desired.

How many sessions are needed?

The number of sessions needed varies based on the specific condition and treatment area. While some patients experience results immediately after the first session, others might need a series of treatments to achieve their desired outcome.

Find out if Clarity II is right for you! Contact us for a free consultation!

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Quite a bit, actually!

Why is my skin so dry in the winter?

According to De Silva Dermatology’s Dr. John Martin, “The sunlight may not seem to be so harsh, but dry skin is actually exacerbated in colder months. Cold, dry air strips the skin of its moisture, and indoor heating does the same thing.”

Besides dryness, other conditions can increase in intensity during winter months: redness, rosacea and UV damage, all of which can accelerate the look of aging.

If you’re a fan of winter sports such as skiing and ice skating, moisturizer and sunblock are absolutely essential. Winter sun, along with snow glare, can impact your skin’s health faster than you realize.

To minimize winter-related skin dryness, modify your routine with moisturizing, hydrating products. You should also exfoliate regularly and use a humidifier indoors so that the air isn’t so dry.

Do I need to wear sunscreen indoors?

Most definitely. Even without direct sunlight, your skin can be affected by:

UV rays: Even without direct exposure, these rays can pass through window glass and damage your skin. They are also known to increase the risk of skin cancer.

Blue light: The blue light emitted from computer screens has been associated with increased skin hyperpigmentation.

Skin aging: Wearing sunscreen, even indoors, helps to slow the signs of aging skin.

What should I use — and how often should I use it?

Dr. Holly Volz adds: “Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least a 35 SPF rating to your face and all exposed areas of skin about 30 minutes before going outside, Make sure to reapply it frequently, about every two hours, if you’re outside for an extended period of time.”

How can I maintain my skin’s moisture?

We’ve said it so much, it’s practically a mantra — but it bears repeating!

Take shorter, cooler showers: A hot shower sounds great when it’s chilly outside, but that’s one thing you shouldn’t do. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends a five- to 10-minute shower at a lukewarm temperature. Hot water washes away essential oils, making your skin even dryer.

Wash your hands in cool water: The CDC advises that cooler water is just as good at getting rid of germs as hot water.

Use fragrance-free cleansers and washes: Scented soaps and cleansers contain ingredients that can irritate your skin. Use a fragrance-free moisturizing cleanser instead. Your skin will thank you.

Don’t overdo the heat: Along with humidifier use, keep the thermostat lower. 68 to 72 degrees is comfortable enough, and will prevent your skin from drying out. And if you have a fireplace, don’t sit too close to it. The heat will do the same thing!

Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize: Keep your skin hydrated, especially those hands that you’re washing constantly. Apply hand cream after each washing.

Adopt a winter skincare routine: Use cream-based cleansers and avoid astringents, which can irritate and dry out your skin. The AAD recommends that you eliminate the use of products that contain alcohol and fragrance, especially if you’re already combating dryness. And don’t forget the lips!

Eat right: Foods that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids such as fish, nuts and seeds can help combat skin dryness.

Wear clothing that doesn’t irritate: Wool sweaters and other roughly textured clothing put directly against your skin can cause it to become even more irritated and itchy. Put on a light layer of softer, breathable material first to act as a barrier and then add the sweater.

What products does DeSilva Dermatology carry that provide winter skincare?

Revision Skincare DEJ Daily Boosting Serum: Advanced age-defying serum to rejuvenate and energize fatigued skin. The only anti-aging serum that boosts skin’s cellular energy, is now available in a 2.0 fl oz size.  Also comes in 0.5 fl oz travel size and 1.0 fl oz size. 

Revision Skincare Intellishade Moisturizer SPF 45: Along with broad-spectrum protection against UV rays, this product also works as an anti-aging moisturizer. The sheer-coverage formula hides the appearance of discoloration, redness, large pores and dark spots for a more even tone. This Revision tinted moisturizer also contains peptides and other anti-aging ingredients that minimize fine lines and wrinkles for a smooth texture and youthful look.

sunbetter SHEER SPF 56 Sunscreen Compact: Broad spectrum protection that provides priming benefits with no tint and a sheer finish. Helps prevent sunburn if used as directed with other sun protection measures to decrease the risk of skin cancer and early skin aging caused by the sun.

Do you have any questions or concerns about your skin’s overall health? Contact DeSilva Dermatology at (830) 331-4150 for a consultation or to purchase products.  Products can also be purchased online at https://www.desilvaderm.com/cosmetic-services/products/. 

The post Reminder: Modify Your Skincare Regimen! appeared first on San Antonio & Boerne Dermatologist.

Here are the VI Peel treatments we offer that can handle virtually all skin conditions.

VI Peel Precision Plus

Our most popular treatment, this medium-depth powerhouse peel works to suppress melanogenesis—the production of melanin—at the source while promoting rapid cell turnover for more even and bright skin tone. Resurfacing action reveals brighter, renewed skin for results in seven days.

For Skin Concerns:

Sun Damage
Melasma
UV-Induced Pigmentation
Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH)

VI Peel Purify with Precision Plus

Pigmentation issues PLUS acne and/or acne scarring? Enjoy two treatments in one! Take on current breakouts and the scars and pigmentation they leave behind. Our superior purifying and smoothing acne treatment clears away dead skin cells and excess oil to speed breakout clearing and purify pores to prevent breakouts. By targeting melanogenesis—the production of melanin—at the source, this treatment helps minimize stubborn post-acne scars and uneven tone for a brighter, smoother surface.

For Skin Concerns:

Excessive Oil
Acne with Hyperpigmentation
Acne Scarring
Adult Acne

VI Peel Purify

A multi-faceted treatment for the many triggers and symptoms of acne, from dead skin cells and excessive oiliness to clogged pores and all types of blemishes. Our peel sweeps away skin cells known to clog pores, clears out oil and debris trapped deep within the pores, eliminates p. acnes bacteria and balances skin for fewer breakouts and a smoother texture.

For Skin Concerns:

Active Acne
Break-out Prone Skin
Oily and Congested Skin
Teen Acne

VI Peel Advanced

This potent, powerful treatment is ideal for more mature clients that want to intensify results against deep-set wrinkles and loss of elasticity. Our innovative treatment is formulated with a synergistic blend of ingredients that penetrate deeper to combat the signs of aging and soften fine lines and wrinkles. This targeted formula helps enhance collagen stimulation to increase cell turnover and help firm the skin.

For Skin Concerns:

Aging Skin (Ages 40+)
Wrinkles
Fine Lines
Loss of Elasticity

VI Peel Original

A great first-time peel for all age groups and skin types seeking multiple benefits from their peel—including tighter-looking skin, smoother texture, and renewed radiance. VI Peel Original is specifically formulated to rejuvenate, refresh, and reset for rapid, visible results safely and effectively.

For Skin Concerns:

Sensitive Skin
Early Signs of Aging (Ages 20+)
Rough Texture

Contact our office to find out which VI Peel treatment is perfect for you!

The post All About Vi Peel appeared first on San Antonio & Boerne Dermatologist.

What’s the CoolPeel difference?

CO2 lasers are the gold standard in treating wrinkles, age spots, acne scars, and other blemishes and can also tighten skin and balance tone. Damaged skin tissue is removed, or ablated, stimulating new collagen production and heat energy is delivered to tighten the skin. Sounds great, but traditional CO2 treatments are often accompanied by considerable downtime and risk while damaged skin heals.

Many advances have been made to improve the side effects of CO2 treatments but ONLY the CoolPeel^® can deliver a fractional ablative treatment without the downtime. There is minimal risk of hyperpigmentation, demarcation or infection.

How does it work?

A CoolPeel^® laser treatment can only be performed using the SmartXide Tetra CO2 laser. The Tetra is the latest, most advanced CO2 laser from DEKA, a global leader in aesthetic technology. Only Tetra can control its output to deliver high energy in extremely short pulses for impressive skin resurfacing results without the lingering heat that traditionally damages the surrounding skin. The lack of unnecessary heat is why we call it cool – get it? – and how you get an immediate aesthetic effect with minimal downtime.

You are a good candidate for a CoolPeel^® laser treatment if you are looking to reduce the appearance of fine lines and sun damage, minimize pores and improve skin texture.  Your skin will look healthier and younger.

How long does it take? Is anesthesia or numbing required?

A full-face CoolPeel^® laser peel can take anywhere from 15 to 20 minutes.  While there is no need for anesthesia or localized numbing, DeSilva Dermatology may use a numbing cream for additional comfort.

What is my recovery time?

One of the main benefits of the CoolPeel^® settings, is that there is minimal downtime. You should expect to be a little red, as if you have a sunburn, for a day or two, but nothing should prevent you from returning to your normal daily activities.  Using higher settings could require longer down time. Your skin may feel dry and scaly as it heals so it is important to keep the skin hydrated.

When can I return to my skincare routine?

After your CoolPeel^® treatment, it is important to keep your skin hydrated and there may be certain products you should avoid. Talk to your provider about the best post-treatment care and when you can return to your daily skincare regimen.

Contact DeSilva Dermatology to find out if CoolPeel® is right for you.

The post CoolPeel FAQ appeared first on San Antonio & Boerne Dermatologist.

Broad-spectrum sunscreens

There are two types of ultraviolet (UV) rays emitted by the sun — UVA and UVB. UVA rays cause premature skin aging, including wrinkling and age spots. UVB rays cause sunburn. Both are potential risks for skin cancer. For all-around protection, look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects you from both types of rays.

The difference between chemical and mineral sunscreens

Chemical sunscreens contain man-made ingredients, such as oxybenzone and avobenzone, while mineral sunscreens use natural ingredients such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. When chemical sunscreens are absorbed into the skin, a resulting chemical reaction dissipates the sun’s rays.

Mineral sunscreens stay on top of the skin to deflect UV rays. Chemical sunscreens can appear invisible, while mineral sunscreens give your skin that white, slathered-on appearance because they remain on the surface. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends wearing SPF 30 daily.

What does SPF stand for? 

SPF stands for “sun protection factor.” This is a measurement of how effectively a sunscreen will protect you from UVB rays. Use a sunscreen with a rating of SPF 30 or higher, because SPF 30 will provide 97 percent protection.

In studies one ounce is used for full body application, which is equivalent to a shot glass of sunscreen so a small squirt of SPF 30 for the whole body is not really SPF 30.

What does UPF stand for?

Similar to the SPF rating, UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) is a rating used for photoprotective clothing and hats. A UPF rating of 25 means that the clothing allows 1/25 (four percent) of UV rays to penetrate the fabric, 50 (1/50) lets in two percent, and so on.

Is sunscreen safe for babies?

The FDA recommends that you NOT use sunscreen on babies younger than six months. This is because their skin is still immature and prone to irritation. It’s best to keep them covered up and shaded. For children older than six months, mineral sunscreen is recommended for the same reason.

What is nicotinamide?

Also known as niacinamide, this is a supplement that has the potential to protect against certain types of skin cancers. Further studies are needed, but preliminary evidence suggests that it may prevent lesions in people with sun-damaged skin. It also may offer some UV ray protection, but the use of sunscreen is still encouraged.

What is Heliocare?

Heliocare comes from the Polypodium leucotomos fern, native to Central and South America. This fern has developed its own protection against free radicals in the environment. Available as a nutritional antioxidant supplement, it is taken once daily. It is not intended to be a replacement for sunscreen, but an added defense against the sun’s rays.

Dr. DeSilva’s Advice

Dr. DeSilva says, “If you must spend a lot of time outside, avoid the hours when the sun is at its hottest. Stay well hydrated and seek out shade when possible.” If you already exhibit signs of sun damage, DeSilva Dermatology can help minimize the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and blotches.

Contact our office for options for skin care, sun protection, procedures such as Botox and fillers and/or lasers for rejuvenation such as our CoolPeel or Secret RF devices.

The post San Antonio Summer Suncare appeared first on San Antonio & Boerne Dermatologist.

What is HydraFacial?

HydraFacial is an invigorating treatment that can be given in as little as 30 minutes. It delivers long-term skin health and can be tailored to meet the specific needs of all skin types. It offers instant, noticeable results with no downtime or irritation. The HydraFacial treatment removes dead skin cells and extracts impurities while simultaneously bathing the new skin with cleansing, hydrating and moisturizing serums. The treatment is soothing, refreshing, non-irritating and immediately effective.

Is HydraFacial good for my skin?

The post HydraFacial® FAQ appeared first on San Antonio & Boerne Dermatologist.

1. Take shorter, cooler showers

A hot shower sounds great when it’s chilly outside, but that’s one thing you shouldn’t do. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends a five- to 10-minute shower at a lukewarm temperature. The hot water washes away essential oils, making your skin even dryer.

2. Wash your hands in cool water

With so much hand-washing going on during the Pandemic, you run the risk of severely drying out your hands. The CDC advises that cooler water is just as good at getting rid of germs as hot water.

3. Use fragrance-free cleansers and washes

Soaps and cleansers that have scents contain ingredients that can irritate your skin. Use a fragrance-free moisturizing cleanser instead. Your skin will thank you.

4, Use a humidifier

Winter air is dry, and home heating makes it dryer still. Use a humidifier to put much-needed moisture back in the air.

5. Don’t overdo the heat

Along with humidifier use, keep the thermostat lower. 68 to 72 degrees is comfortable enough, and will prevent your skin from drying out. And if you have a fireplace, don’t sit too close to it. The heat will do the same thing!

6. Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize

Keep your skin hydrated, especially those hands that you’re washing constantly. Apply hand cream after each washing.

7. Adopt a winter skincare routine

Use cream-based cleansers and avoid astringents, which can irritate and dry out your skin. The AAD recommends that you eliminate the use of products that contain alcohol and fragrance, especially if you’re already combating dryness. And don’t forget the lips!

8. Use sunscreen every day

Just because a winter day can be overcast and gloomy doesn’t mean you can skip the sunscreen. The sun emits two different types of UV rays that can penetrate clouds and cause havoc with unprotected skin.

9. Eat right

Foods that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids such as fish, nuts and seeds can help combat skin dryness.

10. Wear clothing that doesn’t irritate

Wool sweaters and other roughly textured clothing put directly against your skin can cause it to become even more irritated and itchy. Put on a light layer of softer, breathable material first to act as a barrier and then add the sweater.

If you’re having a difficult time managing your skin’s dryness, you may need a prescription-grade moisturizer. Contact us at (830) 331-4150 for a consultation and product recommendations.

The post Tips for Maintaining Healthy Winter Skin appeared first on San Antonio & Boerne Dermatologist.

No one knows what causes it, but it may be an autoimmune disease. In people with autoimmune diseases, the immune cells mistakenly attack the body’s own healthy tissues instead of viruses or bacteria.

A person with this condition sometimes may have family members who also have the disease. There is no cure, but treatments can help even out skin tones.

Who gets it?

Anyone can get vitiligo and it can happen at any age. For many people, the white patches show up before age 20.

It seems to occur more in people who have family members with the disorder or who have certain autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis or Type 1 Diabetes.

What are the symptoms?

The main symptom of vitiligo is loss of natural color. The patches can show up on any part of your body and can affect:

• Skin, which develops milky-white patches, usually on the hands, feet, arms and face.
• Hair, which can turn white on the scalp, eyebrow, eyelashes and beard.
• The inside of your mouth or nose.

People with vitiligo can also develop problems with the eyes and ears, such as glaucoma and hearing loss. In addition, people with the disorder may worry about how their skin looks, which can affect their general well-being.

What causes vitiligo?

No one knows the exact cause. It may be an autoimmune disease in which the body’s immune system attacks and destroys the skin cells that make color. Also, your family history and genes can play a role in causing vitiligo.

Finally, sometimes a sunburn, stressful life event, or contact with a chemical can trigger vitiligo or make it worse.

Is there a test for it?

To see if you have vitiligo, your doctor may ask about your family history and do a full physical exam. The doctor may use a special tool that shines a black light on your skin.

Your doctor may also run blood tests, check your eyes, or take a small sample of your skin to be examined under a microscope.

How is it treated?

In most cases, the goals of treatment are to:

• Slow or stop the disease.
• Help skin cells that make color to grow again.
• Bring back color to the white patches of skin.

Treatments do not always work for every person. Additionally, new patches of vitiligo may form. You may need more than one treatment to get the best results.

Treatments can include:

• Medicines or medicated skin creams, which may be able to return color to the white patches of skin.
• Light therapy to help return color to the skin*.

Living with vitiligo

Living with vitiligo can be hard. Some people with the disorder feel embarrassed, sad, ashamed or upset about how their skin looks. This can lead to low self-esteem and depression. Seeking advice from a counselor or therapist can help you cope.

You can help manage vitiligo by:

• Using sunscreen and wearing clothes to protect your skin.
• Wearing self-tanning lotions or dyes to cover white patches of skin.
• Finding a doctor who has treated other people with vitiligo.
• Learning about the disorder and treatments to help you make decisions about your care.
• Finding a vitiligo support group, either in person or online.
• Reaching out to family and friends for support.

“If you’ve developed unusual patches on your skin, contact us for an appointment today,” advises DeSilva Dermatology’s Dr. Thushan DeSilva. “There are treatment options available to correct skin color and help you to feel less self-conscious.”

The post What Is Vitiligo? appeared first on San Antonio & Boerne Dermatologist.

Rosacea is a long-term disease that causes reddened skin and pimples, usually on the face. It can also make skin thicker and cause eye problems. It is estimated to affect 16 million in the United States alone. If left untreated, the condition can worsen.

Who can get it?

Anyone can get rosacea, but it is more common among these groups:

• Adults ages 30 to 60.
• Women, especially during menopause.
• People with fair skin. Lighter skin also makes the disease more apparent

What are the symptoms?

Rosacea usually causes your face to become red or flushed. It may look like:

• Redness at the center of your face, including your forehead, nose, cheeks and chin.
• Small red blood vessels that become visible under your skin.
• Bumpy skin or pimples.

You might also have these other symptoms of rosacea:

• A swollen, bumpy nose (this usually happens to men).
• Skin that feels burning, swollen or warm.
• Thicker skin on your face, especially if you have an advanced case of the disease.

Many people who have rosacea can get eye problems. These may include:

• Eyes that are red, dry, itchy, burning or watery. You might feel like you have sand in your eye.
• Eyelids that are inflamed and swollen.
• Eyes that become sensitive to light.
• Blurred vision, or some other kind of vision problem.

What causes rosacea?

Doctors don’t know what causes rosacea, but your family history or genes might make you more likely to get the disease.

If you blush a lot, you may also be more likely to get rosacea. Some researchers think rosacea occurs when blood vessels expand too easily, causing you to blush.

How is it treated?

There is no cure for rosacea, but treatment can help make your skin look and feel better. Your doctor may suggest antibiotic medicines that you apply directly on your skin or take in a pill. It may take several weeks or months for your skin to start looking better.

Other skin treatments may include:

• Gels to help your skin look less red.
• Electrosurgery or laser surgery to reduce the appearance of small red lines on your skin. Laser treatments include Excel V, which is available at the DeSilva Dermatology office.
• If your nose is bumpy and swollen, you may be able to have some extra skin tissue taken off to make it smaller.

Treatments for eye problems may include:

• Medicines, such as steroid eye drops.
• Cleaning your eyelids to reduce infections. Your doctor may recommend scrubbing your eyelids gently with watered-down baby shampoo or an eyelid cleaner and then applying a warm (but not hot) compress a few times a day.

What can I do about the condition?

You can take an active part in treating your rosacea. Besides going to your doctor regularly, you can also try these things to reduce your symptoms:

• Keep a written record of what seems to make your rosacea worse. This may help you figure out what irritates your skin.
• Use a sunscreen every day. Get one with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher that protects against UVA and UVB rays (two kinds of ultraviolet rays that can damage your skin).
• Use a mild lubricant on your face if it helps, but try to avoid products that irritate your skin.
• You might try a green-tinted makeup to make your skin look less red.
• Talk to your doctor if you feel sad or have other signs of depression. Some people with rosacea feel bad because of the way their skin looks.

Some things can make your rosacea become worse or flare. What causes a flare in one person might not cause a flare in another person. Although these factors have not been well-researched, some people say these things make their rosacea worse:

• Heat, including hot baths
• Exercise
• Sunlight
• Wind
• Very cold temperatures
• Hot or spicy foods and drinks
• Alcohol
• Menopause
• Emotional stress
• Long-term use of steroids on the skin
• Bacteria

“Rosacea treatment is twofold,” says Dr. DeSilva.  “One is medical/laser treatment, but more importantly is behavior modification, including avoiding triggers and using sunscreen.”

If you have the symptoms of rosacea, contact us for an appointment today.

The post Facts About Rosacea appeared first on San Antonio & Boerne Dermatologist.