Dermatology & Laser Center of Charleston

Ever thought about having your leg veins treated? Check out Dr....

Thu, 16 May 2013 10:15:00 -0400

Ever thought about having your leg veins treated? Check out Dr. Schlesinger’s interview with Tara on 1250 WTMA, Charleston, SC - The Big Talker to learn all about the treatment and how you could benefit.

Be sure to tune in Wednesday mornings for Dr. Schlesinger to discuss and answer your Dermatology and Skin Care questions.

Dr. Schlesinger Says: Choose your sunscreen based on your activity.

Tue, 14 May 2013 10:01:21 -0400

When it comes to Sun Safety, the first place to start is with your sunscreen. As a dermatologist one of the first questions I receive is ‘What sunscreen do you recommend?’. The answer is simple - I recommend the same sunscreens to my patients that I use myself.

Many people do not realize it can be best to tailor your sunscreen to the activity you will be doing that day. This helps in making sure you have the best protection and is also a good way to conserve on product usage. You don’t necessarily need to use a Sport Sunscreen if you plan on moderate outdoor exposure, while on the flip side, it would not be suggested to use your everyday sunscreen if planning a day out at the beach. Here is a rundown of the sunscreens I reach for and when:

My sunscreen of choice when outside and protecting my skin is the SkinCeuticals SPF 45 Sport Defense for the neck, arms and legs. For the face, I use the SkinCeuticals Sheer Physical 50. If I plan to be outside for extended periods of time (outdoor festivals, boating, gardening, etc.), I will opt for Blue Lizard SPF 30 which is a bit thicker with a higher concentrate of Zinc Oxide. *The key is to reapply the sunscreen at least every two hours. For days when I’m not outside at all and only in the office, I wear SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic or Phloretin CF. The reason I use antioxidant serum as opposed to sunscreen when indoors all day, is these products provide a level of sun damage reversal.

One thing that I commonly do, and highly recommend, is wearing long-sleeved or legged, sun-blocking clothing. These allow for comfort, shield the skin, and I avoid getting burned like many folks do.

I do like to use other products as well, both to try them out and because if I am looking for specific benefits. When I find something really great, I work to incorporate it into our office and always share the best recommendations with my patients.

To learn more about the sunscreens I use along with all the sunscreens we offer here at DLCC, check out our Pinterest Board - The Skin’s Best Friend.

Miss out on yesterday’s talk radio segment? Here’s...

Thu, 09 May 2013 10:00:54 -0400

Miss out on yesterday’s talk radio segment? Here’s the sound bit of Dr. Schlesinger with Tara of 1250 WTMA - The Big Talker discussing the new FDA proposals on tanning bed regulations and indoor tanning for minors.

*Be sure to tune in Wednesday mornings for Dr. Schlesinger to discuss and answer your Dermatology and Skin Care questions.

Do you know your ABCDE's of Skin Cancer?

Wed, 08 May 2013 09:40:54 -0400

What you need to know when it comes to skin cancer.

Skin Cancer is the #1 most commonly diagnosed form of cancer. To give you an idea of it’s rapidly growing capacity, the American Academy of Dermatology estimates that in the U.S. alone nearly 3.5 million cases of skin cancer are diagnosed a year in 2 million people. 3.5 million! The odds of developing skin cancer are now at a 1 in 5 chance. But as with most things - knowledge is power - and there are steps you can take to catch skin cancer in early stages. While it is the #1 most commonly diagnosed, skin cancer is also the most treatable when caught early. During Melanoma and Skin Cancer Awareness Month, DLCC wants to make sure you are aware of what to look for when performing a self skin exam between visits to the dermatologist.

There are three main types of skin cancer:

Basal Cell Carcinoma

• The most common skin cancer, occurs about 1 million times a year and usually is found on the sun exposed areas of the body.
• Looks like a pearly papule or a red, scaly patch. The lesion is typically persist ant and may bleed.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma

• The second most common skin cancer, occurring about 400,000 times each year.
• Generally resembles a crusted, red lesion. It may also present as a fast growing dome shaped nodule.
• Squamous cell carcinoma has a higher likelihood of spreading into the body, especially when it occurs on the head and neck.

Melanoma

• The most deadly of skin cancers.
• This type occurs about 100,000 times per year and is rapidly becoming more prevalent at alarming rates.

Knowing the three main types of skin cancer is key, however knowing how to keep watch over your moles is another step in keeping your skin healthy. Often referred to as the ABCDE’s of Melanoma, these tips can help catch all forms of skin cancer when performed on a regular basis. So how can you tell if a mole is skin cancer? Take note of the following:

(A) Asymmetry - If you drew a line down the middle of the mole, would it have two equal sides? If not, the mole is asymmetrical.
(B) Borders - Normal moles have even borders, suspicious moles have irregular borders (i.e. scalloped, notched or jagged edges).
(C) Color - Irregular color patterns should tip you off right away. Look for red, white, black or brown colors mixed in one mole.
(D) Diameter - Keep track of any moles or lesions which increase in size and diameter. Always alert your dermatologist to these changes.
(E) Evolution - Probably the most important of all, LOOK FOR CHANGE IN ANY CATEGORY! A new mole or moles that show any type of change have a higher chance of being abnormal. If you notice a changing mole, see your dermatologist as soon as possible to have the mole evaluated.

While the incidence of skin cancer relies on your sun exposure and can not necessarily be completely avoided, being aware of the signs and symptoms can help greatly reduce the cancer advancing. Catching melanoma in it’s earliest stages dramatically improves an individual’s survival rates, but it all lies on being aware of what it is going on with your skin. Dermatologists recommend having your skin examined by a board certified dermatologist on a yearly basis. If it’s been a while since you’ve had your skin examined, May is the perfect time to get back on track with Melanoma and Skin Cancer Awareness Month. Help us spread awareness by encouraging friends and loved ones to schedule an exam as well. A simple skin screening can save a life!

Dr. Schlesinger live and on air with Tara of 1250 WTMA - The Big...

Fri, 03 May 2013 11:19:24 -0400

Dr. Schlesinger live and on air with Tara of 1250 WTMA - The Big Talker talking about Melanoma and Skin Cancer Awareness.

Tune in Wednesday mornings for Dr. Schlesinger to discuss and answer your Dermatology and Skin Care questions.

Doc Warrick's Derm Talk: Rosacea Triggers

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 19:46:00 -0400

Hello there!

On any given day I see at least 3 to 5 patients diagnosed with rosacea - many of whom aren’t even aware they have it. While medications and products can be really great at helping to manage the condition, there are also a few key environmental factors call “triggers” which play a major part in causing flair-ups. Knowing these triggers and how to navigate them can help a patient with rosacea lessen the physical signs which go along with this condition. While there are many different rosacea triggers, the following list is comprised of the most common:

- Sun exposure

- Exercise

- Stress / Anxiety

- Alcohol (especially red wine and champagne)
- Certain foods such as cheese, chocolate, citrus fruits, spicy dishes, and soy sauce to name a few
- Hot baths, showers, and saunas
- Cosmetics containing witch hazel or strong fragrances

All triggers affect each individual differently and to varying degrees. Finding out and recording a list of your own personal triggers are key elements in managing your rosacea. If you’ve noticed any possible symptoms of rosacea, it never hurts to have a dermatologist take a look and give a second opinion. Remember that if rosacea or any other skin condition is left untreated, they often get worse as opposed to clearing up on their own. It can be something as simple as adding a green-tinted, redness correcting product to yourskin care regimen or avoiding one of the common triggers as much as possible, but you will never know your options until you have it checked out.

Until then, I hope you are enjoying Spring in the Lowcountry and don’t forget to wear your sunscreen!

- Doc Warrick

More than Flushing, Blushing & Break-Outs

Tue, 16 Apr 2013 19:48:00 -0400

Shining light on the often misunderstood skin condition of Rosacea.

The common skin condition referred to as rosacea affects more than 16 million individuals, most between the ages of 20 to 50 and many of whom are unaware of their condition. Characterized by the signature red or “ruddy” look on the cheeks, central forehead or nose, rosacea is often mistakenly referred to as adult acne. However, as you can see in the photo above, rosacea is more than acne blemishes - which are a trait of the condition - but visible, widened blood vessels present on the face as well. The direct cause of rosacea is unknown and the severity of the condition can vary upon the individual.

Rosacea patients have sensitive skin which can be easily irritated by products and triggers in the environment. (Doc Warrick dives into common Rosacea triggers in his Derm Talk below!) A hot, stinging sensation during or after flushing episodes can present itself which brings discomfort for the individual. The acne-like blemishes can also be not only painful, but embarrassing for the patient. This brings up another side of the condition which patients find themselves navigating during flushes or episodes.

Rosacea can have social and psychological implications on the patient as well as medical. While navigating the landmine of triggers, an individual with rosacea can find themselves doing a lot of explaining to friends and strangers alike. According to the National Rosacea Society an estimated 78% of the population is undereducated in regards to rosacea. Assumptions can easily be made relating acne blemishes or papules to poor hygiene or the flushed appearance being attributed to alcohol consumption. Large percentages of those with rosacea have reported the condition has affected their social or professional interactions, and some have even reported calling out to work due to flare-ups.

While it can not be completely cured, it can however be managed with various medications, skin care products or laser treatments. Check out our Rosacea & Redness Board on Pinterest during Rosacea Awareness Month for more helpful products and management tips. If you suspect you may have symptoms of rosacea, please contact our office to schedule a consultation.

I should schedule a full body what?

Wed, 13 Mar 2013 19:53:00 -0400

Debunking the stigma of a full body skin exam.

You know yearly skin exams are important, and we know you know yearly skin exams are important. But we also know scheduling a full body skin exam for the first time can be a daunting experience. While for many of our patients scheduling their regular Full Body Skin Exam (FBSE / skin cancer screening) is a common occurrence, we have yet a large number who shy away from this life saving appointment just because of the name. We’re here to debunk the stigma that can attach itself to a full body skin exam and explain exactly what takes place during this type of appointment.

To clarify: You are not charged by body part for your office visit. A full body skin exam takes approximately 10 to 15 minutes start to finish from when your Dermatologist enters the exam room, which can be the same length of an office visit to have a lesion on your arm checked and ask two additional questions about skin care. It is a common misconception that a full body skin exam costs morethan having one or two moles checked.

Tips for your appointment: Wear clothing that is easy to change in / out of, as you will be asked to remove outer layers of clothing, leaving undergarments on, and cover up with a provided medical gown. Have a written list of specific lesions your would like for your dermatologist to pay extra attention too during the exam. This will help to ensure you don’t forget any concerns you may have going in to your appointment. (This is also helpful to do with any additional questions you may have for your dermatologist.) If you keep track of your lesions, be sure to have any changes noted to point out to your dermatologist.

During the exam your dermatologist will check each area of your body one area at a time - i.e. your left arm, chest, right arm, back, continuing down to your legs - while you are wearing the medical gown. Here, he or she, may make verbal notations about any lesions noticed or ask questions regarding the history of lesions or other factors contributing to skin care or conditions. Other conditions can also be noted during this time such as acne, eczema, rosacea, or warts. You can expect up to 3 people (the average is 2 additional) in your procedure room during an exam - the dermatologist, medical assistant, and if needing a biopsy or simple procedure, our registered nurse may step in to help. Given our dermatologists are male, our female patients will always be accompanied by a female chaperone during their exams. Our goal is to make you as comfortable as possible during your exam in order to provide the best care possible.

At the end of your exam, your dermatologist willrecommend a follow up appointment such as a lesion removal (excision) or follow up full body skin exam of 3, 6, or 12 months. If you have a history of skin cancer or suspicious lesions, your dermatologist may prefer to keep you on a closer schedule to monitor any changes. Any product recommendations your dermatologist mentioned will be available when checking out with more information being provided if needed. If insured, your exam will be filed to your insurance with only your copay, depending on your individual plan, due at time of checkout. After that, your full body skin exam is complete and you are set to go until your next office visit.

Now that doesn’t sound too bad, does it? We sure hope not!

While yearly skin exams performed by a board-certified dermatologist are recommended, it is also important to conduct a self exam once a month. Use this time to track any and all changes in skin lesions - color, size, location - and make notes of these areas. Worried you won’t be able to remember all the information? Download this Body Map from the Skin Cancer Foundation to keep track. File your monthly maps in a folder and use this information to let your dermatologist know of any changes.

A full body skin exam is nothing to be worried about going into your appointment. For most patients, they find this type of exam to be more inclusive to cover all aspects of skin care as opposed to segmented topics. Remember, no one knows your body like you do. If you feel a lesion looks the slightest bit suspicious, don’t hesitate to consult a certified dermatologist for a second opinion. Their trained eyes may even find something you had overlooked in your self exams. At DLCC we are proud to have two very reputable and experienced dermatologists on staff. Both well versed in all skin conditions, encourage their patients to maintain regularly scheduled full body skin exams. It’s one type of exam that can save your life.

Dr. Schlesinger Says: Stay ahead of the game for 2013!

Wed, 06 Mar 2013 19:56:00 -0500

April 15th is a little over a month away and for many of you that means finishing up gathering all necessary materials to file your taxes. While this can indicate a rush to pull receipts and expenses, or trying to recollect when you went to the doctor and if you purchased anything, it doesn’t have to be. March also marks the end of the first quarter and this is an optimum time to recap the first months of the year and set things in line for the rest of the year. Here are a few tips on how to do this and stay ahead of the game for 2013:

Set up a medical spreadsheet. Keep track of appointments from the past quarter, any payments made with notation of type of payment (i.e. copay / deductible / products / etc.), and the amount filed to your insurance. Total these numbers quarterly.

In the same spreadsheet keep track of your insurance EOBs and deductible balance. Knowing these two items can save you much confusion and headaches down the road. If you receive a bill from a medical provider, you will also have a quick, easy reference with which to compare balances.

In a third portion of the spreadsheet, chart any cosmetic treatments you have had or hope to have in the future. This will better able you to keep track of any budgeting needed as well as tracking your non-medically related expenses.

Taking charge of your medical expenses and tracking your insurance now and setting up a system to do so on a quarterly basis will help you to avoid any rush come time to do your taxes next year. It will also give you peace of mind throughout the year knowing where you stand with your insurance in terms of your deductible or coinsurances.

Best Fit For You - Skin Care for Your 50's +

Fri, 15 Feb 2013 10:00:37 -0500

For your golden years and beyond, your skin care needs seem to follow a similar pattern. You will begin to notice greater loss of moisture and elasticity. With this you may also begin to see greater areas of discoloration and sun damage becomes more prevalent.

Realizations: Your skin feels dryer year round. Fine lines, wrinkles and sun damage are all more prominent. This is the optimal time for a high quality moisturizer as well as a strong exfoliant to encourage cell turnover.

Essentials:

Broad-spectrum Sunscreen SPF 30+
Gentle Cleanser
Retinoid
Thicker Moisturizer
Collagen Enhancers
Exfoliant

Product Recommendations: Complex Gentle Foaming Cleanser, Clinician’s Complex Super C Powder, Clinician’s Complex Tissue Growth Factor, NeoCutis Journee, Clinician’s Complex Microdermabrasion Cream, SkinCeuticals Sheer Physical Defense, Avene Retrinol, NeoCutis BioCream, SkinCeuticals A.G.E. Interrupter

Learn more about these products by visiting our Pinterest Boards here.

Best Fit For You - Skin Care for Your 40's

Tue, 05 Feb 2013 11:39:35 -0500

A natural decrease in elasticity when you hit your 40’s is completely normal for you skin. You may start to feel your skin is less firm or notice a sagging appearance. While this is often a time many begin to consider cosmetic treatments such as laser resurfacing or dermal fillers, there are still important changes in your skin care regimen which can help alleviate common skin care woes during your 40’s.

Realizations: If you haven’t been updating your skin care regimen, it’s way past time. Your skin is starting to appear slightly thinner and less firm.

Key Players:

Broad-spectrum Sunscreen SPF 30+
Cleanser
Antioxidant Serum
Retinoid
Moisturizer
Collagen Enhancers

Product Recommendations: SkinCeuticals LHA Cleansing Gel, Clinician’s Complex Super C Powder, Clinician’s Complex Tissue Growth Factor, NeoCutis Journee, SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic or Phloretine CF, SkinCeuticals Sheer Physical Defense, Avene Retrinol, NeoCutis BioCream

Learn more about these products by visiting our Pinterest Boards here.

It’s February 1st and you know what that means? The first...

Fri, 01 Feb 2013 10:41:13 -0500

It’s February 1st and you know what that means? The first day of our patient’s favorite special - BOGO Facials and Massages!

Best Fit For You - Skin Care for Your 30's

Wed, 30 Jan 2013 10:00:39 -0500

By the time you hit age 30, awareness has set in regarding changes in your skin. Sun damage, stress, bad eating habits are all starting to present themselves a bit more and right on your face. You may find your skin is in the middle ground between acne-prone and mature, but this is a vital time for you to take charge of your skin care regimen, positioning yourself ahead of the game for decades to come.

Realizations: Your skin doesn’t “bounce back” like it used to, i.e. visible signs of lifestyle habits, drop in cell-turnover resulting in texture changes, say hello to those little fine lines.

Key Players:

Broad-spectrum Sunscreen SPF 30+
Exfoliant
Antioxidant Serum
Retinoid
Moisturizer

Product Recommendations: SkinCeuticals LHA Cleansing Gel, Clinician’s Complex Microdermabrasion Cream, SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic or Phloretine CF, SkinCeuticals Sheer Physical Defense, Avene Retrinol, NeoCutis BioCream

Learn more about these products by visiting our Pinterest Boards here.

Best Fit For You - Skin Care for Your 20's

Tue, 22 Jan 2013 10:17:59 -0500

Oh the years of our 20’s! Young and free. For some it includes graduating college, starting careers, beginning families, and partaking in many of life’s changes in this important time of our lives. However, this is also a vital time to take care of your skin as many of these changes can wreak havoc on even the clearest of complexions.

Realizations: Sun damage has already been set in motion and may even begin appearing more visibly; You can still get acne outside the ages of puberty and high school.

Key Players:

Broad-spectrum Sunscreen SPF 30+
Cleanser with salicylic or glycolic acid
Exfoliant
Moisturizer

Product Recommendations: SkinCeuticals Clarifying Cleanser, Clinician’s Complex Microdermabrasion Cream, SkinCeuticals Blemish + Age Defense, SkinCeuticals Sheer Physical Defense, Avene Triacneal, Clarisonic Mia 2

Learn more about these products by visiting our Pinterest Boards here.

You can check out our full Best Fit for You series!

Best Fit For You - Skin Care 101

Wed, 16 Jan 2013 10:00:45 -0500

As we grow older in age, our skin care needs grow as well. By grow is doesn’t necessarily mean we need to add more products, rather alter the products we use to match our changing skin.

Taking a que from our friends over at gloProfessional, we have decided to begin a blog post series on finding the Best Fit For You when it comes to your skin care regimen. Over the next few weeks we will be breaking down Skin Care by decade, recommending what areas you should be honing in on, and which products we suggest to frame your skin care regimen.

Before we get started Regardless of our age, though, there are a few basics which remain constant throughout our years. That is why we will be starting off the Best Fit For You series with Skin Care 101 - tips to take with you no matter where you are or how young your skin truly is.

1. Wash your face twice daily, with clean hands, and using a clean towel to pat dry.

2. Apply moisturizer appropriate to your skin (oily or dry) and season (your skin may need a thicker moisturizer in colder months).

3. Finish your morning regimen with a broad-spectrum (blocks UVA and UVB) sunscreen. Do this everyday, no matter the weather or season.

4. Exfoliate a minimum of twice weekly to help encourage cell turnover, as well as slough off dead skin cells. Products are most effective when they are applied directly to your skin - don’t waste your products by piling them on top of a layer of dead skin cells!

As simple as it sounds, these four steps are the solid foundation to any good skin care regimen.

Join us for our 8th Annual Glow Night! Let’s make it a...

Tue, 06 Nov 2012 13:44:39 -0500

Join us for our 8th Annual Glow Night! Let’s make it a December to Remember!

from gloprofessional: Kate McCarthy shares her top mineral...

Fri, 19 Oct 2012 14:21:06 -0400

from gloprofessional:

Kate McCarthy shares her top mineral makeup application tips in this week’s Q&A with Kate. What are you top mineral makeup application tips?

Top 20 Skin Conditions - Number 20

Tue, 28 Aug 2012 09:58:09 -0400

Number 20 on our list of the Top 20 Skin Conditions is Atopic Dermatitis.

A skin problem that causes dry skin, intense itching, and then a red, raised rash, it is one of the many types of eczema. While the exact cause of Atopic Dermatitis is unclear, this condition, similar to many types of rashes, affects your body’s ability to retain moisture, leading your skin to because dry, easily irritated, and itchy.

Atopic Dermatitis is most common in babies and children. Some children with Atopic Dermatitis outgrow it or have milder cases as they get older, and a person may get Atopic Dermatitis as an adult.

This condition can not be fully treated, however there are things you can do to help manage your Atopic Dermatitis. Using physician approved moisturizers to medication prescribed by a dermatologist can help curb your Atopic Dermatitis outbreaks.

To read more about Atopic Dermatitis and other forms of rashes, please click here.

Product of the Week: gloMinerals Corrective Camouflage Kit

Fri, 24 Aug 2012 09:56:40 -0400

The gloMinerals Corrective Camouflage Kit is a quick and easy way to conceal a variety of skin discolorations with minimal application.

Use one of the quadrants or mix them together for optimal results, the color pallet can be used as follows:

“Yellow to conceal mild redness, pink skin, under-eye circles, dark spots and black, blue and purple bruises.
Mint to conceal redness from blemishes, scars, Port Wine Stains, and rosacea as well as red blotches.
Lavender to conceal yellow, gray and green bruises, sallow complexions and under-eye circles on deeper skin tones.
Neutral to conceal general skin imperfections, minor acne and undereye circles.” (source)

For more information on our gloMinerals line of makeup and brushes, please continue reading here.

*All gloMinerals products are 20% off this month at DLCC! Be sure to stop in and stock up for Fall!

Top 20 Skin Conditions - Number 19

Tue, 21 Aug 2012 14:36:43 -0400

Tinea (of nails, skin or scalp)

Tinea is a fungal infection of the nails, skin or scalp. There is a variety of fungi living on the human body at any given moment. Most are harmless but a few variations can turn into infections prompting medical attention. Below are the three most common forms of tinea we see at our office:

Tinea Versicolor is a fungus of the skin known to cause skin discoloration in the neck, back and chest of those infected. Non-contagious, Tinea Versicolor occurs in areas prone to excessive sweating and is often said to be worse during the hotter months of Summer. While Tinea Versicolor is easily treated with antifungal medications, pigment changes in the skin may last for a few months once treatment has concluded. (photo)

Tinea Capitis is a fungal infection of the scalp, often referred to as ringworm of the scalp. Characterized by one or more patches of hair loss, inflammation, itching and feeling scaly to the touch, it is caused by the fungi dermatophytes and is easily transmittable. Treated by oral antifungal medications, often combined with medicated shampoos to decrease the spread of the fungus, Tinea Capitis is most common in young children. (photo)

Onychomycosis is tinea of the nail. Diagnosed more often in toenails as opposed to fingernails. Onychomycosis can be identified by changes in the nail such as brittleness, lack of shine, distortion of shape, yellow or white streaks in the nail, and crumbling of nail edges to name a few. Your dermatologist can diagnose a nail fungus by appearance but will sometimes request a scraping or culture for verification. Contrary to popular belief, over the counter anti-fungal medicines and creams do not often treat onychomycosis successfully. Your dermatologist will recommend a treatment plan which may last up to 3 months while the new nail is growing. (photo)

For more information on a form of tinea or to contact one of our dermatologists, please send us an email here.