Acne - Using Light Treatments

Originally published in SkinNews by Richard G. Asarch, MD

Topical and oral medications have been the mainstay of acne treatments for decades. Now, patients suffering from acne can benefit from in-office treatments of intense pulsed light treatments as an alternative or in addition to traditional acne medications.

A major effect of both oral and topical antibiotics and the Starlux light treatment is the same. Prescribed oral and topical antibiotics rid the skin of acne-causing bacteria. The Starlux system in our office uses blue-light (wavelength of 405-420nm) to remove acne causing bacteria on the skin.

Bacteria produce a light-sensitive chemical called porphyrins. The intense light from the Starlux system interacts with this chemical to destroy the bacteria.

Open clinical trials have shown this treatment to be effective in the majority of patients. Many people will respond after only a couple of sessions. The treatment is safe and can be repeated as often as necessary to keep acne under control. O

Considering a Tropical Vacation?

Originally published in Volume XVI, Issue 2, Fall 2009 edition of Skin News by Richard G. Asarch, MD

Two recent studies have shown a link between warm weather vacations and the development of a greater number of moles in children and Caucasian women. A report in Journal of Investigative Dermatology showed that Caucasian English women who vacation in hot countries have 74% more moles than those who have never vacationed in tropical climates. The same study showed that women between the ages of 18 - 29 who vacationed in tropical climates were more likely to have moles on the trunk and limbs, areas that are most often covered in the everyday life.

A study involving seven-year-old Caucasian children in Colorado showed that every vacation near the water was associated with a 5% increase in small moles. Sunny vacations by the water were most closely linked to increases in small moles.

Since a greater number of moles can increase the risk of developing melanoma, these findings are another fact that emphasizes the importance of following sun precaution rules: (1) Apply sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, (2) apply at least 1 ounce 30 minutes prior to sun exposure, (3) apply sunscreen every two hours or immediately after swimming or sweating profusely, (4) wear sun-protective clothing especially when intense mid day sun exposure is likely, (5) avoid intense sun times from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and, (6) remember that tanning and UV tanning and UV tanning booths are not safe.

New Chemical Peels at the DermaSpa!

The DermaSpa introduces two new light chemical peels; a Glycolic Peel and a Peptide Peel! Both peels have been medically formulated by Dr. Richard Asarch and are performed in-office, by our licensed aestheticians. Chemical peels are an easy way to greatly improve your overall look, and significantly boost your level of confidence!

The Glycolic Peel has a 50% concentration. Glycolic acid is considered the smallest of the Alpha Hydroxy Acids and it is this small size which allows it to penetrate the surface of the skin and enhance the results. Glycolic acid can minimize and reduce the appearance of sun spots, acne breakouts, and fine lines while restoring fresh healthy skin on the surface by polishing away dry dead skin cells.

The Peptide Peel is great for people with sensitive skin. This peel is extremely hydrating, soothing, and perfect for seeing an overall improvement in the appearance of your skin. Peptides can help minimize the signs of aging including sun spots, fine lines and other imperfections seen on the surface of the skin.

These peels are done best in a series of six, at 2-4 week intervals. Because there is no downtime to these peels, they can be done at any time without disrupting your normal routine.