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Almost every viral skincare trend has a legion of enthusiastic – though sometimes anonymous – advocates. However, do any of the hottest skincare hacks have a solid scientific foundation or are they just shortcuts that could have potentially serious consequences? Let’s take a closer look. 

Glass skin, cloud skin, and Jell-O skin are all viral terms describing the ideal complexion. Skin as smooth and clear as glass, as matte and luminous as a cloud, and as bouncy with collagen as Jell-O might be within your reach with a few home tricks and tips! At least, according to TikTok and Reddit users.

There’s something comforting about crowd-sourced skincare tips and tricks. After all, these are posted by regular people who’ve struggled with common skin issues; they’re not some huge corporate brand making promises their products will never fulfill, are they? 

While some social media influencers or gurus operate in good faith and provide information and advice that they themselves follow, DIY skincare isn’t necessarily a viable solution for what could be legitimate medical issues. Here is a look at a few of the most popular viral skincare trends that might not be worth the hype. 

Slugging

Slugging skincare is possibly the most popular and widely adopted DIY skincare trend. It involves applying an occlusive layer – petroleum jelly, most commonly – to the skin after cleansing to prevent trans epidermal water loss and keep the skin hydrated. This strategy is supposed to effectively seal in moisture, prevent dryness, and achieve smooth, glowing skin. 

But what is causing your dry skin? 

Slugging doesn’t address the root causes of xeroderma, the clinical term for dry skin; it simply prevents additional water loss. Many people experience dry skin when the weather turns cold or because their skin doesn’t produce sufficient sebum to retain moisture. Others have dry skin because of an underlying medical issue, like eczema. It’s possible to experience dry skin as a response to a cosmetic or cleansing product. 

Applying a layer of petroleum jelly to your skin after a cleansing routine that might contribute to dryness will trap the irritant next to the skin, exacerbating the problem and potentially causing breakouts. 

And speaking of breakouts, this strategy is DEFINITELY NOT for people with acne-prone skin. 

Slugging might benefit people whose dry skin is not caused by any external irritant or internal health concern. However, if you experience even the occasional breakout, have combination skin (both oily and dry), or have sensitive dry skin that becomes irritated or inflamed, consult a dermatologist for appropriate solutions. 

Home Extractions/Popping

The home extractions trend is among the more troubling DIY skincare phenomena. Home pore extractions – manually removing debris from pores using an extraction tool or other implement – can lead to scarring, pockmarks, inflammation, and even infections. 

In addition to potentially worsening existing acne and creating permanent scars, home extractions do not address the factors that contribute to the development of blackheads.

Home extractions are particularly dangerous when they are performed on cysts, which must always be evaluated by a medical professional before removal. The only safe way to undergo a pore extraction is to have one performed by a trained and certified dermatologist. 

Face Taping to Prevent Wrinkles 

For decades, movie stars and entertainers have used face taping to draw back loose facial skin before filming or performing. Even non-entertainers use tape along the jawline and the temples as an instant, temporary facelift before a special event. 

However, face taping has also recently become an online trend that supposedly inhibits the development of wrinkles. The theory behind overnight face taping is that the tape discourages the use of facial muscles during sleep, preserving the skin and preventing dynamic wrinkles. 

Unfortunately, there is absolutely no evidence to suggest that facial taping has any long-term effect on existing or developing wrinkles. Moreover, using overnight tape could cause skin irritation and clogged pores. 

Laser therapy, chemical peels, dermal fillers, and Botox are among the most effective treatments available for fine lines and wrinkles. 

If you want to address signs of aging, skin clarity, or any other skin concern, it’s always best to consult with a trained dermatologist.

Here’s a full suite of cosmetic services that will have you loving your skin this Valentine’s Day! 

Why settle for a box of chocolates when you can have healthy and smooth skin? Show your complexion a little love with these fantastic skin-beautifying solutions! 

In-Office Treatments 

Whether you have a date with your honey or just want to give yourself the gift of a beauty boost this Valentine’s Day, these services and treatments will have you looking as radiant as a bouquet of roses! 

Struggling with acne? Tired of painful and rough ingrown hairs? Want to do something about the chicken skin on your knees and elbows? Our state-of-the-art facilities offer comprehensive treatments for a wide variety of skin issues.  

Beautiful skin is healthy skin. If you have concerns about the texture or appearance of your skin, schedule an appointment with our board-certified dermatologists for a full consultation on your skin health. 

Botox 

Did you know that St. Valentine is said to be a patron saint of young people? This year, celebrate him by preserving your youthful appearance!  

Botox is a widely used anti-wrinkle injection designed to treat dynamic wrinkles (lines and creases that develop after years of muscle activity, like smile lines or frown lines). It works by blocking the nerve signals to the muscles, which inhibits the contractions that cause wrinkles to deepen and become visible. Because the procedure effectively prevents involuntary facial tension, the result is a smoother, more relaxed, and youthful appearance. 

One Botox appointment typically lasts less than one hour, with no downtime. The full effects of the procedure are generally noticeable within one week. Touch-up treatments are recommended approximately every six months. 

This treatment freshens and rejuvenates while allowing your natural radiance to shine through. 

Dermal Fillers 

Dermal fillers are volumizing injections that reduce the appearance of lines and add fullness to the mouth and cheeks, depending upon the treatment you select. The results are natural-looking, immediate, and long-lasting. 

Dermal fillers are extremely effective treatments for the following issues: 

• Mild skin laxity 
• Lack of fullness in the lips, cheeks, jaws, or under-eye areas 
• Pitted acne scarring 
• Moderate facial creases or folds 

Dermal filler treatment is fast, comfortable, minimally invasive, and requires no downtime. Results can last as long as several years, depending on the type of filler used. 

IPL Photofacial 

Give yourself the gift of a brighter, smoother, more even complexion with an Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) photofacial! Say goodbye to lingering acne scars, discoloration, and dullness with this non-invasive, highly effective treatment. 

IPL photofacials are excellent options for people who wish to correct a wide variety of skin issues. This treatment stimulates collagen production and leverages the healing powers of the body to facilitate cell regeneration. This technology releases multiple pulsed light wavelengths that penetrate deep into the skin without damaging the external layer. 

IPL photofacials correct a wide range of skin conditions, including the following: 

• Acne and acne scars 
• Enlarged pores 
• Spider veins 
• Fine lines and wrinkles 
• Hyperpigmentation 

Not only are IPL photofacials great for the face – they can be used anywhere on the body! This includes the following areas: 

• Arms 
• Back 
• Chest 
• Hands  
• Shoulders 
• Neck 

IPL photofacial treatments do not require downtime, and results are apparent within one or two days post-procedure.  

Medical-Grade Skin Care 

We also offer a fantastic suite of products that will give your skin lots of Valentine’s Day luster! Here are a few of our favorites: 

Alastin Daily Beauty Regimen 

This kit is definitely the gift that keeps on giving! This comprehensive set of some of Alastin’s most popular products gives skin a potent dose of powerful elastin and collagen-boosting ingredients. From the antioxidant-rich Gentle Cleanser to the HydraTint Pro Mineral Broad-Spectrum SPF 36 sunscreen, this kit delivers a concentrated nutrient boost for day and evening cleansing routines. 

WestDerm Ultimate Hydration Regimen  

Your skin needs extra hydration during the dry winter months, and WestDerm’s Ultimate Hydration Regimen delivers major moisture. With the antioxidant power of Green Tea Polyphenols, ultra-hydrating hyaluronic acid, and skin-rejuvenating retinol, this skincare system was specifically engineered to moisturize and rejuvenate all skin types. 

SkinCeuticals Advanced Clear Holiday Kit (Silymarin CF & Clarifying Clay Masque)  

Give yourself a luxurious at-home spa treatment with SkinCeuticals Advanced Clear Holiday Kit! This balanced skincare system combines concentrated antioxidants’ restorative properties with pure earth clay’s potent detoxifying benefits. Oily and combination skin becomes clearer, smoother, more vibrant, and less prone to breakouts. 

For comprehensive medical, cosmetic, and surgical dermatological services, please visit our information page to find an office near you. 

Here’s Why Your Pout Might be Peeling

Are your lips less than smooch-worthy? Here are a few reasons why, and what you can do to keep your kisser thoroughly kissable! 

If your lips are on the dry side, you probably think you just need to slather on the drugstore lip balm and wait for your lips to restore themselves to their former glory. In most cases, you would probably be right. 

But what if it doesn’t work? 

Seasonal dry lips are perfectly normal. There are no oil glands in the lips, and the lips’ stratum corneum (the layer on top of the skin that acts as a barrier) is extremely thin, so they are particularly vulnerable to the lack of humidity during the cold winter months. Nevertheless, some cases of dry, chapped lips are indications of a medical abnormality.  

Sometimes, you might merely need to put extra care and attention into your normal skin and lip routine. However, cracking dry lips that don’t improve with moisturizer, lip balm, exfoliation, and time might require the attention of a qualified dermatologist. 

This Valentine’s Day, treat your lips to a little extra TLC. Here are a few things you should know about the causes of dry lips, and what you can do about them. 

When to Treat Dry Lips Yourself 

Here are a few common causes of dry lips that you can address at home.  

Too much lip-licking. 

Hang on – you’re not supposed to lick your lips? 

Well, not when they’re super dry, no. The enzymes in saliva are meant to break down the proteins, fats, and carbohydrates in the foods we eat as part of the digestive process; too much saliva on dry lips can make them dryer. 

Because keeping saliva off the lips at all times can be challenging, it’s important to have a good lip balm on hand that can effectively seal in maximum moisture while blocking the corrosive effects of saliva. The best lip balms combine humectants, emollients, and occlusives. This combination attracts atmospheric moisture to the lips and effectively seals it in, creating a protective layer. Paraffin wax lip balms are particularly effective. 

If you are struggling with dry, chapped lips, choose a lip balm without potentially irritating ingredients like menthol or salicylic acid. Apply a thick layer before bed every night, and wear a lip balm with ultraviolet (UV) protection during the day. 

Too much sodium or spice. 

If you’ve spent this winter noshing on salty snacks, you might have found the culprit for your dry lips. The salt and spice content on the exterior of potato chips, crackers, or pretzels can linger on your lips, dehydrating and irritating them.  

Skip the snacking (or switch to healthier raw vegetables and fruits), apply a layer of lip balm, and see if your lips heal in a day or two. 

Too much sun. 

The lip area is especially susceptible to sun damage because the outer barrier is very thin. If you’ve spent this winter on the slopes where UV rays are especially harsh, your lips might be paying the price.  

Treat your lips as though they’ve been sunburned and soothe them with lip balm and aloe vera. Aloe vera gels contain a compound called aloin which has anti-inflammatory properties. It can also attract needed moisture which can minimize peeling. 

Too many skincare products. 

While those exfoliating acids or skin rejuvenating retinol might keep your skin bright and beautiful, they could also irritate your lips’ delicate skin. 

Make sure you aren’t overloading your skin with serums and exfoliants, and always wear a protective layer of lip balm before applying your products. 

When to See a Doctor 

You might have a medical concern if you don’t see improvement after a few days of at-home lip nurturing. Drugstore remedies can’t necessarily correct the following causes of dry lips. 

Infection 

Wearing dentures, drooling in your sleep, or having an underbite might make you more susceptible to yeast growth. This fungal infection can cause pain, dryness, and cracking in the corners of the mouth. 

The most effective solution for fungal growth is anti-fungal medication. Schedule an appointment with a dermatologist to learn the best course of treatment. 

Vitamin Deficiency 

A deficiency in vitamin B12 can cause cracking, soreness, a rash around the mouth, and dryness of the lips. Check with your physician to determine whether you have a vitamin deficiency, and what the cause could be. 

Actinic Cheilitis 

Actinic cheilitis is a condition that emerges after chronic damage from sun exposure. This complication is a potentially serious issue that can progress to skin cancer. Squamous cell carcinomas will emerge in between 10% and 30% of people with actinic cheilitis. 

If your dry lips also have plaques or scaly patches, please schedule an appointment with a dermatologist for an evaluation.  

Contact Dermatitis 

Your skincare products, cosmetics, or personal care products like toothpaste could trigger an allergic response like redness, irritation, and peeling.  

Your dermatologist can help you discover the source of the reaction and prescribe an oral or topical medication that will help address the issue. 

Tell your dry lips to kiss off – schedule an appointment with a board-certified dermatologist today! Visit our information page to find a location near you.  

It’s easy to get confused about insurance coverage for dermatology services. Here is what you should know before scheduling your appointment. 

If you’ve put off a visit to a dermatologist because you aren’t certain your health insurance will cover the costs, please be aware that many skin concerns or changes aren’t simply aesthetic matters — they might merit medical attention. 

While most dermatology clinics offer elective cosmetic services that address issues solely related to the appearance of your skin (laser hair removal, dermal fillers, and tattoo removal, for example), dermatologists are qualified doctors who diagnose and treat medical conditions. If you have concerns about a particular issue relating to the health of your skin, hair, or nails you might be able to apply your health insurance coverage to the cost of your treatment. Here are answers to a few common questions about coverage for dermatological concerns. Always consult with your medical insurance provider to understand what your plan covers. 

Is my issue cosmetic or medical? 

Health insurance coverage will depend on whether your visit is for an elective procedure or an underlying medical condition that needs treatment.  

In general, treatments that address abnormalities relating to illnesses, injuries, or congenital anomalies (lesions, scars, or birthmarks, for example) are covered. 

Although acne seems more like a cosmetic nuisance than a health concern, acne is a medical issue that might require an intervention your provider deems medically necessary under certain circumstances.

For a visit to be deemed a medical necessity, the dermatologist must perform an examination that assesses, identifies, or addresses a medical issue that will negatively affect your overall health if left untreated. Your insurance carrier will provide documentation of the conditions and treatments that qualify for coverage. 

If you are experiencing symptoms and aren’t sure if they would qualify for coverage under your plan, contact your insurance carrier for clarification or call one of our offices and we can help you review your coverage. 

Will my appointment be covered? 

To determine whether your evaluation will be covered by your carrier, you have to first find out if your dermatologist is in your carrier’s network. Your carrier will provide you with a list of the in-network dermatologists in your area. You can also contact a dermatology practice and ask if they accept your insurance plan. 

If you choose to contact a dermatology center directly, please have your insurance information handy so that you can provide the specific plan and policy details. Though some practices might accept an insurance carrier, they might not accept certain plans from that carrier. 

Will I have to be referred by my primary care physician? 

Your insurance carrier might require a referral before covering a visit to a specialist. If you have a point of service (POS) or a health maintenance organization (HMO) plan, your carrier will require a referral from a primary care physician for an in-network dermatologist. 

However, if you have a preferred provider organization (PPO) plan, you might be able to visit an in-network specialist directly. 

It is best to review your plan information with your insurance company. Your insurance card will have a member services phone number you can use to reach a representative who can discuss your coverage terms. 

Will I have out-of-pocket costs? 

Your plan might require you to pay a co-payment even if the treatment is deemed a medical requirement. Your plan might also require you to pay for a portion of your visit – or your entire visit – until you have met your deductible. 

If you have any questions about your insurance coverage, co-payments, your deductible, or payment plan options, we suggest reaching out to your insurance carrier directly but please don’t hesitate to contact us for assistance. We are here to help! 

The New Year is almost upon us, and it’s time to take a look toward the future – the future of our skin. 

We don’t often think of skin health as distinct from overall health, but skin cancer is the most widely diagnosed cancer in the United States. Because dermatologists are uniquely experienced and trained in identifying potentially serious skin abnormalities, having a regular skin cancer screening gives you the best possible chance of a quick and easy recovery if any suspicious moles are found. 

Of course, everyone needs more than one resolution! In addition to scheduling your annual skin check, here are a few other skin-related goals you should consider in the coming year. 

Have a skin check. 

Let’s be clear: everyone should be screened for skin cancer. However, if you have a family history of skin cancer, multiple moles, or a history of intense UV exposure, you are at a particularly high risk. 

A skin check is a comprehensive evaluation of your entire body, including your scalp, face, behind your ears, and every crack and crevice of your body down to the soles of your feet. 

But before your appointment, you should examine your entire body to see if there are any unusual growths or changes that might be of concern. If you notice anything different, alert your doctor before the examination begins. 

Keep it simple, sweetie! 

The sheer number of skincare products on the market can seem overwhelming, especially because there are so many different options for addressing common issues. However, more isn’t always better. 

Regularly layering on multiple skin care products can leave skin irritated, inflamed, and more susceptible to sun damage and accelerated aging. You might not even be experiencing the benefit of the active ingredients because different, incompatible products could interfere with other products’ efficacy. 

Instead, give your skin’s barrier a boost by getting out of its way. The outermost skin layer – commonly known as the barrier – protects the skin’s internal layers from environmental toxins, helps prevent water loss, and shields you from bacteria that could cause breakouts. Sticking to a simple routine and using a line of products designed to work together for enhanced effectiveness is your best bet. 

If acne is your primary concern, WestDerm’s Acne Kit is a fantastic, medical-grade product line that gently exfoliates while protecting your skin from oxidative damage.

For skin that can use a bit more hydration, the Ultimate Hydration Regimen is a comprehensive kit that helps skin retain needed moisture with Green Tea Polyphenols and Hyaluronic Acid. 

Don’t ignore your body! 

Of course – we don’t ignore our body skin, exactly. However, many of us take greater care with our selection of facial products than we do with our choice of body wash. 

This new year, give your whole body the love you give your face! Our Glycolic Skin Softening Body Lotion with 15% Glycolic Acid is an oil-free, light, and highly moisturizing product that smooths out rough patches and leaves skin buttery soft. 

If you struggle with occasional breakouts on your chest, back, and shoulders, WestDerm Body Acne Clearing Spray delivers a Salicylic Acid and Glycolic Acid formula that helps unclog pores and slough away dead skin cells that lead to inflammation and breakouts. 

Be vigilant about sunscreen. 

Wintertime is no time to be slack about sun protection. Even if your body is mostly shielded from the cold, your face and neck are still exposed to the sun’s rays. Make sure your New Year’s resolution is to apply a generous layer of sunscreen to your face and lips daily. One of our favorites is WestDerm’s Antioxidant Moisturizing Sunscreen with SPF 50. 

As for your lips, WestDerm’s Plumping Lip Treatment with SPF 30 protects your lips from damaging UV rays while giving them a luscious volume boost with Hyaluronic Acid. 

Schedule your New Year skin check with us today! 

One of the best holiday gifts you can give yourself is a complete skin check by a qualified dermatologist. Begin 2023 with a focus on your skin’s health and radiance! 

To find a clinic near you, please visit our location page and schedule an appointment today! 

With the end of the year nearly here, it’s the perfect time to reflect on your 2021 health and skincare routine. If you find there’s room for improvement in your daily practices, fear not…simple adjustments can make all the difference! Take a look at our 12 days of skin tips, and follow along to boost your skin health in less than two weeks.

DAY ONE: Put a sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher near your toothpaste. This way, you’ll see it first thing and remember to apply it every day. Limiting your UV exposure is a proven way to reduce your skin-cancer risk. We recommend ISDIN Eryfotona Actinica SPF 50. Shop HERE.

DAY TWO: Perform a skin self-check. Look at every inch of your skin from head to toe for any dark spots with irregular borders or other suspicious marks. If anything seems out of the ordinary, schedule an appointment with a dermatologist to get tested for skin cancer. Repeat the self-exam at least once every month—it could save your life. Outcomes are much better when patients get a cancer diagnosis early.

DAY THREE: Schedule a dermatology exam. If you’ve had skin cancer before or have a family history of skin cancer, then make a habit of seeing a dermatologist at least once a year. Your provider will check for any suspicious growths and biopsy as needed, so you have a diagnosis if necessary and a plan of action.

DAY FOUR: Buy a humidifier. Dry winter air leads to dry, itchy winter skin, and indoor heating can make the problem worse. Add some much-needed moisture back into the air and your skin will thank you.

DAY FIVE: Buy a gentler soap. Clarifying cleansers can strip skin of the oil it needs to stay smooth and supple. A sensitive skin formula could keep your skin from drying out. We recommend WestDerm Gentle Antioxidant Soothing Cleanser. Shop HERE.

DAY SIX: Put your lotion next to the sink or shower. Your skin absorbs moisture most effectively after being wet, so make it easy for yourself to moisturize right after bathing.

DAY SEVEN: Dig out your warmest, loosest clothes. Loose clothes are less likely to cause chafing than tight ones.

DAY EIGHT: Cook yourself a fish dinner. If you don’t eat fish, try walnuts or chia seeds. The omega fatty acids in these foods help prevent dry skin.

DAY NINE: Read or look up the ingredients on your soaps and lotions. If they contain alcohol or fragrances, they might be drying out your skin. To minimize the risk of dehydration, you might try sensitive-skin or fragrance-free formulas.

DAY TEN: Drop lip balm in your purse or briefcase. Dry winter weather can lead to chapped lips. Take a balm or salve wherever you go to keep your lips hydrated. We recommend SkinCeuticals Antioxidant Lip Repair. Shop HERE.

DAY ELEVEN: Swap out your laundry detergent. If you have sensitive skin, a harsh detergent can lead to irritation when your clothes contact your body. Opt for a fragrance-free formula instead.

DAY TWELVE: Sign up for a yoga class. If yoga’s not your thing, go for a hike or meditate. Stress relief benefits your whole body, including your skin.

You can use this tip list to pick and choose the best ones that work for you and your specific skin type and lifestyle. The important thing is to consider your health and give your skin what it deserves at year-end and year-round!