English Dermatology

English Dermatology

XTRAC Laser

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What is XTRAC laser? 

XTRAC is a Laser device FDA cleared for the treatment of Psoriasis, Vitiligo and Atopic Dermatitis. Hundreds of thousands of patients have had XTRAC treatment for their psoriasis, vitiligo or atopic dermatitis since its introduction in 2000. Although there is no known cure for these conditions XTRAC laser offers new hope for patients suffering from these conditions. At ­­­­­(insert practice name) we are excited to offer this safe and effective treatment modality to our patients.

How many treatments are required with XTRAC laser to see improvement?

Typically, several are needed with XTRAC laser to see improvement. It is common to be seen two to three times a week for laser treatments. Fortunately, these are quick office visits and can be done at your convenience.

How long does each treatment with XTRAC take?

Each treatment lasts only a few minutes, depending on the surface area of skin involved. No numbing is needed for the procedure.

Is XTRAC painful?

XTRAC is not considered to be painful, and most patients tolerate the procedure well without the need for numbing.

Can psoriasis be cured with laser?

While there is no cure for psoriasis, XTRAC is a safe and effective treatment option that has been clinically shown to reduce the appearance of psoriasis patches without the need for topical treatments or injections. XTRAC excimer laser has been shown to improve the skin allowing plaques to stay clear for several months.

How does XTRAC work for vitiligo, psoriasis, and eczema?

XTRAC is a type of laser called an excimer laser. This laser shines intense light at 308 nm, a very precise wavelength of light found in the ultraviolet B range (UVB). This light helps reduce inflammation without damaging other structures of the skin in a painless fashion. This is considered low-risk and extremely safe and may be able to produce long-lasting results.

Does XTRAC work for scalp psoriasis?

XTRAC is extremely effective for scalp psoriasis as our technicians are able to directly apply the laser directly to the affected areas, often where topical creams and solutions fail to penetrate. The laser targets the specific psoriasis plaque and doesn’t affect the surrounding skin.

Is XTRAC covered by insurance or Medicare?

XTRAC excimer laser is covered by all major insurance companies and Medicare. Prior authorization is often needed to ensure coverage. In some cases, insurance companies mandate that other treatment options be tried and failed before XTRAC is approved. Hence, it is important to see your board-certified dermatologist for a consultation to see if XTRAC is an appropriate treatment option. If covered by insurance, you may still be responsible for standard co-pay or deductible costs.

We now have this as an available service at our Desert Ridge location. To schedule a consultation to see if this will work for you, visit us here: https://www.englishdermatology.com/location/desert-ridge/

Dermaplaning

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About Dermaplaning

What is it?

To improve dull, lifeless skin that makes you look older than you are, you have many options. For an easy, non-invasive way to smooth skin, many women and men turn to simple exfoliation. This helps reduce dead skin cells, excess oils, and other debris to leave your skin fresher and softer.
However, there’s mere exfoliation and then there’s dermaplaning exfoliation. Dermaplaning takes the freshening aspects of exfoliation and amplifies them to skin-rejuvenating levels that are simply stunning.
Dermaplaning is a quick, noninvasive procedure that scrapes away dead skin cells, excess oil, and other debris. This helps maintain or restore the rate of cellular turnover that’s crucial to keeping your face fresh and youthful-looking. The result is skin that’s smoother and softer immediately.

Why dermaplaning?

Dermaplaning is designed to address a variety of skin-related issues, including:
• Dull, lifeless skin
• Rough, dry skin
• Unwanted fine facial hair

Impact of dermaplaning

In effect, by scraping away dull surface skin, the procedure kicks the body’s self-healing properties into high gear. In turn, your body produces new skin cells that are healthier and plumper, which firms and tightens your skin while also brightening it.
This painless procedure also removes the fine peach fuzz, or vellus hair, from the face. This is a crucial bonus because this excess hair, despite being so fine, can trap dead cells, oil, dirt, and other debris, all of which contribute to dull, lifeless skin as well as other skin issues like acne. Because your skin is free of this debris, makeup can go on more easily and won’t cake as quickly. Cleansers that you use at home clean your face better because they penetrate more readily.

Providers

Our approach & expertise

Our providers are highly trained in the execution of scraping away dull surface skin, the procedure kicks the body’s self-healing properties into high gear. The goal is to make sure that you are looking your best, and our team will talk you through all the benefits of dermaplaning. Ask us more about this procedure and if it’s right for your skin. After all, Healthy Skin Is Our Passion.™

Brachytherapy

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About Brachytherapy

What is it?

Brachytherapy provides a faster skin cancer treatment with minimal side effects and exceptional cosmetic outcomes. The technology is unique because it uses a miniaturized x-ray source that can be turned on or off, instead of the traditional radioactive seeds that are always emitting radiation. This means that the shielding requirements are very minimal, and your radiation therapy team is able to remain in the treatment room with you. Because it is a short procedure with minimal side effects, eBxTM is an ideal skin cancer treatment alternative for patients not interested in surgery.

Brachytherapy benefits

  • Short, non‐invasive procedure with no hospital stay
  • Minimal side effects
  • Exceptional cosmetic outcomes in a relatively short timeframe
  • Ideal alternative for patients not interested in surgery or on a blood thinning medication (i.e. baby aspirin)

A different way to treat skin cancer

How Does HDR Brachytherapy Work?

With eBx™, a miniature x-ray source is temporarily placed on the skin using a surface applicator. This allows the radiation to be delivered directly to the skin lesion with impeccable accuracy. The treatment is non-invasive and painless, providing an ideal alternative for those not interested in surgery.

Treatment Process

The radiation treatment process will begin with a consultation where the Radiation Oncologist will evaluate your condition and determine if Brachytherapy is the right skin cancer treatment for you.
During treatment, your Radiation Oncologist and Radiation Therapist will place a miniature x-ray source temporarily on the skin using a surface applicator. This allows the radiation to be delivered directly to the skin lesion with impeccable accuracy.
It is a short procedure with minimal side effects and exceptional cosmetic outcomes in a short timeframe.

BBL Photofacial

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About BBL Photofacial

What is it?

We know the impact of spending many years in the sun. Excessive sun exposure can result in a variety of skin issues that make you look older than you are or feel, which can cause a loss in self-confidence about your appearance. However, we have a variety of treatments to improve both your appearance and self-confidence. One procedure that does this safely and effectively is an BBL (broad-band light) Photofacial.
A BBL photofacial, is a broad-band source of light used for photo rejuvenation to improve a variety of skin conditions. It’s a simple 10-30 minute process (depending on the areas being treated), that is both non-invasive and effective.
Although termed a photofacial, BBL treatment is effective for the face as well as other parts of the body, including your:
  • Hands
  • Arms
  • Neck
  • Chest
A BBL Photofacial is gentle enough for results that make your skin look refreshed and rejuvenated. Specifically, it does the following:
  • Reduces pigmented spots
  • Minimizes facial wrinkles and fine lines
  • Shrinks pores
  • Eliminates spider veins
  • Improves skin redness and flushing
  • Stimulates collagen production
  • Smooths skin texture
The overall result of a BBL treatment is firmer, brighter, more resilient skin.

What to expect

A BBL photofacial requires almost no downtime and results can be seen within a few days post-treatment. While there are minimal side effects with an BBL treatment, some patients may experience swelling, redness, tenderness, and discomfort, but this should resolve in 1-2 days. Dark spots may crust up with a coffee grounds appearance. However, these will gently exfoliate from the skin surface over 4-7 days.

After the procedure

Immediately after a BBL photofacial, you can expect some skin redness, though this usually subsides within the first week. Patients can expect to see full results a month after their last BBL treatment.

Providers

Our approach & expertise

Our skilled experts have the experience and knowledge to perform a BBL Photofacial that is customized to meet your individual aesthetic goals.
What distinguishes us from others is that we focus on you as a person. Our caring community staff is here to answer your questions and address your concerns regarding treatment. You can depend on us for compassionate support throughout the process.
Healthy skin is our passion, so contact us to know more about how a BBL Photofacial could be the ideal solution for smoother, more attractive skin.

PicoWay Laser

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About PicoWay Laser

What is it?

The PicoWay system is not only known for its tattoo and pigment removal capabilities but also as an effective, non-invasive anti-aging device that can give skin a rejuvenated, more youthful appearance. We are also excited to have the PicoWay Resolve system which uses a gentle approach to building new collagen and elastin in the treatment of acne scars and wrinkles. In about 15- to 20-minute treatment sessions, the PicoWay Resolve system can transform skin while leaving the epidermis intact.

What to expect

The PicoWay laser uses ultra-short picosecond pulses to the skin. The resulting bursts of energy create a photo-mechanical impact which helps break up skin pigments or particles of tattoo ink. It works by utilizing two different laser handpieces that split the main laser beam into small, identical beams that can effectively target textural irregularities, skin pigmentation, and various complexion concerns.

PICOWAY LASER FOR TATTOO REMOVAL

For tattoo removal, PicoWay has three wavelengths that can be used to treat more colors than most lasers. It has large spot sizes which can penetrate deep into the skin as needed. The picosecond pulses are 40% shorter than other picosecond lasers, making PicoWay extremely effective while minimizing downtime and side effects.

PICOWAY LASER FOR SKIN REJUVENATION

As a skin rejuvenation treatment, PicoWay works by targeting both the epidermis and the dermis (deeper layer of skin that lies beneath the epidermis). It creates tiny open spaces deep within your skin which your body will fill up with elastin and collagen, resulting in improved skin tone, clarity, and texture –transforming your skin from the inside out. It also helps to even out irregular pigmentation and improve skin texture and tone.
And since PicoWay uses photo-acoustic instead of a photo-thermal effect, this means the skin will not overheat, making the treatment more comfortable than traditional lasers.  After the treatment, you’ll already notice an overall improvement in your complexion. You can resume your normal activities and even apply makeup over your treated skin within a single day of treatment.
We make it a point to make our treatments as accessible to everyone as possible. PicoWay allows for the treatment of a variety of skin types, making it ideal for people of color who wish to have tattoos or skin lesions treated. To learn more about laser tattoo removal, visit ncbi.nlm.nih.gov.

What conditions are treated with PicoWay lasers?

PicoWay targets these skin irregularities and conditions:
  • Acne scars
  • Birthmarks
  • Fine lines
  • Dark spots
  • Pigmented lesions
  • Scars
  • Sun damage
  • Stretch marks
  • Wrinkles
  • Tattoos

 

The Villani Treatment

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About the Villani Treatment

What is it?

The Villani Treatment is a revolutionary treatment that uses millions of years of evolution to improve your skin, particularly when it endures aging, trauma, or environmental stress factors. Available only at select dermatology offices, the treatment uses the bioactive compounds of a specific sea sponge, Spongilla lacustris, to help restore the natural quality of your skin. The treatment uses active and potent compounds of this sea sponge to heal, regenerate, and enhance the quality of your skin. It can safely and effectively activate your skin’s self-healing properties by penetrating the upper layers of the skin.

What to expect

Because the Villani Treatment has both anti-viral and anti-bacterial compounds, its effects are powerful and rapid. Results are as effective as, if not more effective than, conventional procedures like lasers, but without the downtime or possible side effects associated with these procedures. The Villani Treatment is designed to help fight the effects of aging by doing the following: repairing sun damage, clearing acne, stimulating cell renewal, promoting collagen and elastin production, lightening hyperpigmentation, reducing bruising and swelling (ideal for use after dermal filler treatment), smoothing rough texture, and removing skin impurities.

After the procedure

Immediately after the Villani Treatment, your skin will have a healthy shine right due to improved blood flow. For 3-4 days after the procedure, you may feel a tingling sensation as the treatment works to exfoliate dull or dead skin cells. We recommend weekly or bi-weekly treatment sessions until a specific issue, such as acne or sun damage, is corrected. Maintenance sessions are then recommended every 4-6 weeks so that you can maintain your glow.

Providers

Our approach & expertise

We know that you are always thinking about ways to improve your skin, especially if it makes you look more youthful and involves as little downtime or side effects as possible. That’s why our skin experts are always researching the latest skin-rejuvenating therapies like the Villani Treatment that help you look and feel your best. Our expert practitioners are experienced at performing customized skin rejuvenation procedures to restore your youthful appearance. It’s this focus on you as an individual that separates us from others; we tailor treatment to suit your needs and meet your aesthetic goals.

Feminine Rejuvenation

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About Feminine Rejuvenation

What is it?

As a woman, you might know that it’s not uncommon to experience changes to the look and feel of your vagina, especially if you are near or above the age of 50 and have experienced childbirth, significant weight changes, incontinence, or even a medical condition. We know that loose, stretched vaginal tissue can make you uncomfortable and self-conscious, especially during intimacy. That’s why our skin specialists are here with feminine rejuvenation options to address tissue laxity and restore your confidence.

What to expect

Our experts are skilled and experienced at performing feminine rejuvenation procedures to improve the look and feel of your vagina. What makes us different is that we understand the delicate nature of this issue, so we focus on you as a woman. We’ll be here to answer questions and provide compassionate support every step of the way. Feminine rejuvenation treatments offered by our specialists include the following: feminine rejuvenation creams, labiaplasty (surgery to tighten lax tissue of the vagina), energy-based procedures (such as non-surgical radiofrequency devices to tighten or even reduce parts of the vagina), lasers (skin resurfacing and tightening), and combination therapies (surgical, laser, and/or energy-based procedures). With your input, we will choose and tailor a treatment plan just for you.

After the procedure

The obvious benefit of feminine rejuvenation is that your vagina looks and feels better, giving you more confidence and enjoyment during intimacy. More specifically, these treatments can also tighten loose skin, stimulate collagen production, strengthen tissue, enhance appearance, help incontinence, and improve sexual health. Depending on your aesthetic goals, general health, and the type of procedure that suits you best, recovery times and results vary, as do side effects. That’s why scheduling a consultation to discuss these issues is essential.

Sexually Transmitted Diseases

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About Sexually Transmitted Diseases

What are they?

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) range from viral infections to bacterial infections. They’re most often caused by sexual intercourse, including vaginal, oral, or anal sex. Common STDs include bacterial STDs (such as syphilis, chlamydia, and gonorrhea), viral STDs (including hepatitis, genital herpes, genital warts (HPV, and HIV), and parasitic STDs (such as trichomoniasis).

What causes them?

Although the most common way to get an STD is via some of form of sexual intercourse, some forms, such as trichomoniasis, can be contracted through skin contact with damp, moist objects like towels, clothing, and seats. In general, typical risk factors for STDs include the following: multiple sexual partners, intercourse with someone who’s had multiple partners, intercourse without a condom, and the sharing drug of needles.

Common treatments

Treatment for sexually transmitted diseases depends on the specific type of STD you have. In general, typical treatment plans are as follows: 1) Antibiotics, such as penicillin, for bacterial STDs, 2) Cryotherapy, topical medications, or even surgery for genital warts, and 3) Antiviral medications for viral STDs. Keep in mind that for viral STDs, there is no cure; any treatment you take is to manage the symptoms and keep the virus contained.

Providers

Our approach & expertise

We appreciate the delicate subject of sexually transmitted diseases. We realize both the physical and emotional toll they can take, and as your community skin experts, we’re sensitive to these conditions and have the expertise to help you overcome any that you may have. The knowledgeable practitioners at our dermatology center have the skill and experience to help you overcome or manage your condition. We’ll talk to you about your case and gauge your overall health before developing a treatment that fits your needs.
It’s this personalized attention and focuses on you as a person that sets us apart. We understand the delicate nature of STDs and are available to address concerns and to provide compassion throughout the process. Healthy skin is our passion, and so is your health. Contact us today if you have symptoms of an STD to learn more about your treatment options.

Allergies

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About Allergies

What are they?

Allergies occur when the body overreacts to a foreign invader, or allergens, such as pet hair, pollen, pollutants, and more. Often, allergic reactions occur on the skin, but allergies are not just a cosmetic issue: they can be uncomfortable and even painful for certain individuals. Symptoms of allergies can vary, but some of the most common symptoms include the following: fatigue, sneezing or other sinus issues, headaches, itchy (or burning) eyes, shortness of breath, and coughing and/or wheezing. Skin conditions like eczema, rashes, and hives can also result due to allergies.

What causes them?

There are various causes for allergies. Some of the most common include pets or pet hair, pollutants and chemicals, pollen and other natural irritants, cigarette smoke, certain foods and drinks, powders, and fabrics and fibers. If you have allergies but aren’t aware of your risk factors, contact our dermatologists today, who will help you identify, manage, and treat your allergic symptoms.

Common treatments?

The best method for dealing with allergies is to avoid them in the first place, which means avoiding your risk factors – that’s why it’s important that you know them. Even then, allergies can cause problems. If you have allergy symptoms despite your best efforts to avoid them, various treatments can be effective. These treatments include topical medications, such as hydrocortisone cream, oral medications (such as antibiotics), antihistamines, and moisturizing creams and/or lotions. Depending on the severity of your allergies and their causes, these treatments can help you overcome your symptoms outright or at least make them manageable.

Providers

Our approach & expertise

We know how uncomfortable allergies can make you feel, especially when they manifest themselves on your skin as itchiness and/or inflammation. As your community skin specialists, we have the expertise to help you find relief. Allergies are unique to everyone, including you. Because of this, we customize your treatment to suit your lifestyle and health. This attention to you as an individual is what makes us different. Our neighborly staff is here to address concerns and provide compassionate support throughout the process.
Healthy skin is our passion. If you notice allergy symptoms, contact us so that we can help you overcome your systems.

Silhouette InstaLift

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About Silhouette InstaLift

What is it?

Silhouette InstaLift is an FDA-approved, non-surgical procedure that both tightens and re-volumizes the skin. By addressing your skin’s underlying loss of volume, Silhouette InstaLift plumps your skin as well as tightens it. The secret is the use of special dissolvable sutures and bidirectional cones that repair deep tissue and stimulate collagen production. Without incisions, the procedure helps your skin look fuller and more youthful.

What to expect

With Silhouette InstaLift, you’ll get the effects of a comprehensive lift and volumizing rejuvenation without the scarring, anesthesia, and downtime associated with full surgical facelifts. Before this procedure was available, two procedures were usually necessary for both added firmness and improved volume. The procedure can be performed in under an hour, and the side effects are mild and temporary, meaning there’s very little downtime.

After the procedure

In under an hour, Silhouette InstaLift can lift and reinvigorate skin on the cheeks, around the mouth, along the jawline, and on the neck. The results are instant and, because the procedure promotes prolonged regeneration of tissue, improvements continue over the ensuing 5-6 months. Common side effects include swelling, redness, tenderness, and bruising for typically 5-7 days after the procedure.

Providers

Our approach & expertise

We understand that while facial skin laxity and the early development of jowls may make you self-conscious, you may not want to undergo a full surgical facelift. That’s why our dermatologists and skincare specialists offer less-invasive restorative options, such as Silhouette InstaLift. Our skilled practitioners are experts at performing Silhouette InstaLift treatments for lax, loose skin. What makes our treatments unique is that we pay attention to you as an individual. We are here to tailor the treatment to fit your needs, address your questions, and provide compassionate support.
To find out more about the benefits of Silhouette InstaLift, please contact an office today.