Island Dermatology Blog

Sun Spots known as Seborrheic Keratoses

Posted April 26th, 2013 in Anti-Aging, Skin Cancer

“Sun Spots”, occur on aging skin.  Officially they are referred to as Seborrheic Keratoses (Pl).  They can be flat, elevated, or crusty.  Some itch more when they are growing.  Some appear in areas of “friction”, such as under the bra line and/or waistband.  If they are inflamed or irritated from friction, partially scabbed, painful or bleeding, medical insurance will often cover the cost of treatment or removal.  Some can be lightly treated with liquid nitrogen; some can be anesthetized and removed from the skin with a small instrument.  There are numerous options for cosmetic treatments as well depending on the body location and extent of sun damage.

Catherine Del Secco, PA-C

Catherine Del Secco

In the medical profession since 1992, Ms. Del Secco completed her degree in physician assistant studies at the University of Washington in 2003. Catherine was the lead physician assistant in the emergency room at Virginia Mason for several years before entering the field of Dermatology. Catherine joined Island Dermatology in January 2009 where she did intensive training under the leadership of Dr. Baron. Catherine performs the full range of cosmetic dermatology services including lasers for skin rejuvenation and red/brown spot removal, botox and fillers as well as medical dermatology services including skin checks, moles, rashes, warts and acne. She is also an active member of the National Academy of Physician Assistants and the Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants.

What are Milia and what causes them?

Posted April 19th, 2013 in Uncategorized

  Milia are a form of acne and are commonly known as “whiteheads”.  These are a function of the acne gland, and are often seen in multiple locations.  However, some individuals have a large predominance around the eyes or on the eyelids.  Those that are on the eyelids are more sensitive to extract, and often [...]

Read More >>

Reapplying Sunscreen Made Easy By Colorescience

Posted March 29th, 2013 in Uncategorized

Summer is just around the corner! Do you wear your sunscreen daily? Do you reapply? I often get the question “Well how do I reapply if I’m wearing make up?” Easy! We have a mineral powder SPF that you can reapply anytime throughout the day, without disrupting your make up! Colorescience SPF brushes are a [...]

Read More >>

My Best Tip To Preventing Dry Skin

Posted March 7th, 2013 in Uncategorized

If hands are cracked and fissured, these often will require medical evaluation and prescription drugs.However, you can try to stay ahead of the curve, by moisturizing frequently with a cream based product, such as CeraVe Cream, Cetaphil Cream, Aveeno Cream or other cream based products. Creams contain less water then lotions, and hydrate the tissue more effectively. They are not sticky like ointments.

Read More >>

How Does Vitamin C Benefit Skin?

Posted February 22nd, 2013 in Uncategorized

Why is Vitamin C important in skin care? Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps fight off damage to our skin from free radicals in our environment. Free radicals contribute to the signs of aging; by damaging our collagen and causing dryness, fine lines, and wrinkles. Vitamin C can also prevent sunburn, protecting us from [...]

Read More >>

Exilis Body Contouring

Posted February 14th, 2013 in Uncategorized

Exilis is the latest advancement in nonsurgical, pain free therapy for the reduction of targeted fatty deposits, skin tightening and sun damaged and/or wrinkled skin anywhere on the face and body. The thermal energy stimulates and strengthens the collagen network which improves skin laxity and texture. Exilis is exceptionally safe and effective, using focused Radiofrequency [...]

Read More >>

Posted January 24th, 2013 in Uncategorized

The other day I listened to a very experienced medical assistant talk to one of our patients about a biopsy result.  She was using words we use frequently, and words we doctors use with our staff all the time.  I realized, however, that many words get used that I had probably never heard before going [...]

Read More >>

What is Sonic Skin Care?

Posted January 9th, 2013 in Uncategorized

I’ve had several patients ask me lately if using the Clarisonic is beneficial to them. I feel it is one of the most important aspects to your daily home care routine. If any of you have used the Sonicare toothbrush, you know just how clean your teeth can feel after brushing. Why wouldn’t you want [...]

Read More >>

The Link Between Diet and Acne

Posted December 20th, 2012 in Uncategorized

Dermatologists are often asked if diet affects acne.  The official answer to this question has shifted over the years and in some cases gone full circle.  In the 1930’s, it was widely held that diets heavy on dairy, chocolate, fats and sweets contributed to the development of acne.  As years passed, and more studies done, [...]

Read More >>

Actinic Keratosis (The most common precancer)

Posted December 5th, 2012 in Uncategorized

He was staring at the liquid nitrogen hand sprayer as I walked into the exam room.  He was in his late 50’s with fair skin and evidence of lots of outdoor activity. He was in for his skin exam and concern with some dryness on his face, hands and arms. I explained as I swept [...]

Read More >>