Skincare Demystifyed w/ Dr. Andrea Trowers - Sun Care Today

In Miami, the land of the "Beautiful People" - where sun and sand mean that skin is always exposed, Dr. Andrea Trowers, Board Certified Dermatologist based in North Miami Beach, helps enhance all of her client's beauty.

Dr. Trowers exclusively addressesmany of your biggest skin care questions in our ongoing series of columns.

Her latest column is about sun care information you need today. Dr. Trowers explains some myths about sun protection, why higher SPF's don't always mean more protection and what your sunscreen should have in it! - RLB

Sun Care Today- What every woman should know about SPF protection

SPF stands for sun protection factor. This number is a measurement of the degree of UVB protection, but it does not indicate how long you can safely stay in the sun. The idea that the higher the SPF number the longer that it will take you to burn is an old wife’s tale.

Basically once you hit a SPF of 30 there is a minimal difference between it and higher numbers. However there is a huge difference between 15 SPF and 30 SPF. I tell all of my patients that an SPF of 15 may prevent you from developing a sunburn, but you need an SPF of 30 to minimize all of the photo aging and long term negative effects of the sun.

The components of your sunscreen are also very important. Physical blockers are my preferred ingredient because they block burning and tanning rays. The ingredients I tell my patients are mandatory are zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide. Prior to current advances in sunscreen these ingredients meant the sunscreens would be thick, white and greasy. However due to cosmetic advances sunscreens including these ingredients now come in oil free, residue free and fragrance free formulations. There are non-greasy brands and even a powder option.

Chemical sunscreens such as avobenzone, do not block tanning rays as well in my experience.

Remember sunscreen is not just for trips to the pool or beach. The majority of damaging sun rays are received while patients are beside a window at their office or in the car. Thus daily sunscreen application (remember it only lasts two hours) and sun avoidance behaviors are encouraged!
- Dr. Andrea Trowers

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For more information, please visit Dr. Andrea Trowers' New Beauty Magazine feature.

Office contact info: 10800 Biscayne Boulevard Suite #650 Miami, FL 33161

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Skincare Demystified with Dr. Andrea Trowers - Pimple Emergencies!

In Miami, the land of the "Beautiful People" - where sun and sand mean that skin is always exposed, Dr. Andrea Trowers, Board Certified Dermatologist based in North Miami Beach, helps enhance all of her client's beauty.

Dr. Trowers exclusively addresses many of your biggest skin care questions in our ongoing series of columns. Her latest column is about pimples - specifically what to do if one shows up at the last minute!. Dr. Trowers explains what same day procedure you can get from a dermatologist, what to never do to your pimple, and how to avoid pimple emergencies in the future! - RLB

Pimple Emergencies: What to Do to Eliminate Them Quickly

OMG! Is that a pimple on your face? Of course it had to erupt on what was previously your picture perfect complexion the day before your big date, interview, party or (insert some other big event) where you wanted to look your best.

The optimal option in this event is to call your Dermatologist and get an appointment stat. My staff is trained to give same day appointments in situations such as these. If the pimple is still a red hard bump (the best case scenario for a rapid response) it can be injected with cortisone. This a steroid, but the injected medication does not go into your bloodstream, just your skin. The steroid rapidly brings down inflammation, helping redness, swelling and the pain to resolve. The pimple usually looks better within a few hours and definitely is significantly better, if not gone, by the next day. If the pimple already has a white head or is significantly swollen it may need to also be drained.

A pimple emergency should be your wake up call to the importance of a skin maintenance regimen. Prescription medications for acne are preventative and really weren’t created for pimple emergencies. In many cases patients make their pimple emergencies worse by globbing prescription medications onto their little volcano. This only irritates the pimple and the surrounding skin, making it that much more obvious.

But by going on a maintenance program with a topical retinoid and other topical medications that work below the surface to keep pores clog free, you can prevent that dramatic call your dermatologist’s office and go to sleep the night before your big event terror free! - Dr. Andrea Trowers

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For more information, please visit Dr. Andrea Trowers' New Beauty Magazine feature.

Office contact info: 10800 Biscayne Boulevard Suite #650 Miami, FL 33161

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Skincare Demystified with Dr. Andrea Trowers - Exfoliation

In Miami, the land of the "Beautiful People" - where sun and sand mean that skin is always exposed, Dr. Andrea Trowers, Board Certified Dermatologist based in North Miami Beach, helps enhance all of her client's beauty.

Dr. Trowers exclusively addressesmany of your biggest skin care questions in our ongoing series of columns. Her latest column is about exfoliation. Dr. Trowers explains what exfolation is, why it's important and the best products to achieve beautiful, healthy glowing skin! - RLB

Exfoliation- How to Do it Correctly and the Best Products

As humans, we shed thousands of skin cells every day as part of the normal life and death process of our skin cells. We are unaware of this process until it is altered by sun damage, the normal aging process, acne, irritating skin products or a change in the temperature or humidity. All of these factors can result in a change in your skin’s normal exfoliation process and the result is dull, lifeless, dry skin. So exfoliation is never required until there is a problem in our skin’s built in mechanism.

Harsh exfoliation products can cause more harm then good and I see these problems frequently in my office. Rough scrubs or strong cleansers can irritate skin. Any rough handling, including rubbing too hard with a wash cloth is strongly discouraged. The result can be color changes in the skin and the possible worsening of acne.

The best exfoliation is achieved by daily prescription strength retinoid products (such as tazorac, retin a and differin). The products help to clear out sticky skin cells clogging the pores and at the same time are mild daily exfoliators. After a month or two of daily proper use, patient’s report that their skin is “clearer”, “fresher” and “glowing”. This is because the retinoid has hastened the shedding of dead, dull skin cells.

Microdermabrasions, performed by a licensed professional, are also a great option for exfoliation. It is a tiny vacuum with crystals rotating inside that gently buff off and suck away dead skin cells. When performed on a regular basis this procedure, especially when a topical retinoid is also being used, can really give the “glow” we all want.

Remember, when it comes to exfoliation a little goes a long way. However when it is properly performed the benefits show where it counts…your face! - Dr. Andrea Trowers

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For more information, please visit Dr. Andrea Trowers' New Beauty Magazine feature.

Office contact info: 10800 Biscayne Boulevard Suite #650 Miami, FL 33161

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Skincare Demystified with Dr. Andrea Trowers - Chemical Peels

In Miami, the land of the "Beautiful People" - where sun and sand mean that skin is always exposed, Dr. Andrea Trowers, Board Certified Dermatologist based in North Miami Beach, helps enhance all of her client's beauty.

Dr. Trowers exclusively addressesmany of your biggest skin care questions in our ongoing series of columns. Her latest column is about chemical peels. Dr. Trowers explains what you can expect from a peel, the different types of peels available, the best candidates for them and how they can help you achieve that healthy glow! - RLB

Chemical Peels

If you are interested in a chemical peel, it is important to understand what they can and can’t do. Chemical peels can improve your skin texture, give you a “pretty glow”, help to resolve dark spots, improve acne and in some cases remove pre skin cancers. They can not get rid of wrinkles or cause a miraculous change in your skin.

Chemical peels fall into three categories: superficial, medium and deep. Alphahydroxy acids are used for superficial peels. These include glycolic, lactic, salicylic and fruit acids. These peels have minimal down time and result in smoother, brighter skin.

Trichloroacetic (TCA) peels are medium strength and require more recovery time. Deep peels utilize phenol. These can be used for deep, coarse wrinkles but they carry more risks. Patients must understand that there is a permanent change in their skin coloring and they may lose the ability to tan. Also there are serious risks involved for phenol peels used on patients with a history of heart disease.

All of the chemicals used in peels come in varying concentrations and other ingredients can be used to alter the peels. The peel I most commonly use combines salicylic, lactic and retinoic acid. This combination allows the peel to penetrate deeper which allows for superior results, but without the risks of deeper peels.

Chemical peels should only be applied by licensed individuals. Remember this is your face and it can not be replaced! Even superficial peels carry the risk of permanent scarring if applied improperly.

The procedure starts with the face being thoroughly and properly cleansed. The peel is then applied, usually several layers are used. During this time it is normal to experience a tingling or light burning sensation in the areas being treated. The face may be flushed or slightly yellow afterwards. Depending on the type of peel used it may require washing the face after a timed interval, that can vary from several minutes to several hours. During the next several days the skin will flake and peel. It is important to keep the face well hydrated with moisturizers during this period and to not pick at the flaking skin.

After several days to a week the exfoliation is complete and that “pretty glow” is yours! - Dr. Andrea Trowers

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For more information, please visit Dr. Andrea Trowers' New Beauty Magazine feature.

Office contact info: 10800 Biscayne Boulevard Suite #650 Miami, FL 33161

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Skincare Demystified with Dr. Andrea Trowers - Lasers

In Miami, the land of the "Beautiful People" - where sun and sand mean that skin is always exposed, Dr. Andrea Trowers, Board Certified Dermatologist based in North Miami Beach, helps enhance all of her client's beauty.

Dr. Trowers exclusively addresses many of your biggest skin care questions in our ongoing series of columns. Her latest column is on the topic of lasers. Many of you have heard about all the things they can do for your face and body. Now you can find out more about what they can (and can't) do and how Dr. Trowers views them. - RLB

Lasers

Today, as she was receiving her Botox injection, one of my patients asked, “What lasers do you have now Dr. T?” I replied, “The same one I’ve always had. It’s a Nd Yag Cool Glide and it works great for hair removal. I can use it on all skin types, as long as the hair is dark brown or black.” She told me I needed to buy a laser that removes brown spots on the arms. I told her would love to find one, but my policy is to test every laser, procedure, cosmetic and prescription product on one of my staff, friends or family members before promoting it to patients and I hadn’t found a laser yet that worked on her very common complaint.

Over the years I have tried several lasers for brown spots, red spots, photoaging, skin tightening and spider vein removal and have never been impressed enough to buy them (and at times have been thoroughly disappointed by the results). However for all of these skin complaints there are tried and true treatments that may not have the abracadabra instantaneous results that lasers promise (and almost never deliver), but that will over time with compliance and commitment to the treatment plan produce great results. These results are also obtained with less down time and at a significantly cheaper cost than laser therapies. All of the patients who came to me raving about the results they obtained with lasers at other locations have admitted that the same results were obtained with the skin care regimens I have prescribed. So before purchasing a laser treatment just ask if the doctor has treated themselves with the laser and a number of staff members. I know that every procedure at my office has been performed on me, staff, friends and family members. If the laser they are promoting to you is so great, why isn’t everyone at their office using it?

After I told the patient a brief summary of what I’ve written above, she told me that she'd gone to another doctor for an expensive laser treatment of the brown spots on her arms and it hadn’t worked. I told her that liquid nitrogen, a cold gas that I could use to lightly apply to the spots would fade them but she would have to stop tanning. She told her to call me when the laser that faded dark spots on tanned people came out. I promised I would. - Dr. Andrea Trowers

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For more information, please visit Dr. Andrea Trowers' New Beauty Magazine feature.

Office contact info: 10800 Biscayne Boulevard Suite #650 Miami, FL 33161

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Skincare Demystified with Dr. Andrea Trowers - Stretch Marks

In Miami, the land of the "Beautiful People" - where sun and sand mean that skin is always exposed, Dr. Andrea Trowers, Board Certified Dermatologist based in North Miami Beach, helps enhance all of her client's beauty.

Dr. Trowers exclusively addresses many of your biggest skin care questions in our ongoing series of columns. Her latest column is on the topic of stretch marks, which is one we often get reader questions about. Now you can find out what they actually are - and what really can be done about them. - RLB

Stretch Marks

If you have them…stretch marks can be the bane of your existence. There are millions of treatments that claim to cure and prevent them, but none of them have the scientific proven research to back up their miraculous claims. There are a few treatments that can improve their appearance. First though I will review why they occur.

Stretch marks (their technical term is striae) are actually linear scars. They are caused by stretching of the skin and this stress results in thinning of the epidermis and parallel arrays of collagen bundles. They commonly occur on the abdomen during pregnancy, the breasts, shoulders and thighs during growth spurts of puberty and are one sign of oral steroid abuse. In rare cases they can also be an indication of cortisol overproduction in Cushing’s syndrome. Striae are a known side effect of topical steroids. So make sure that you don’t use prescription skin creams for longer than directed.

Initially stretch marks can be raised, red and tender. Over time they become flat, red and their surface may be finely wrinkled. After several years they fade, but may leave a resulting color change (lighter or darker than the surrounding skin).

Retinoid creams, such as retin a and tazorac, build up collagen and if used correctly can dramatically improve the appearance of stretch marks. However don’t glob it on or you will just end up with an irritating rash. It is also important to know that it takes time for the effect of the medication to be seen, several months at least. Also certain lasers can help the redness of stretch marks to resolve quicker. However, remember that the redness resolves on its own over time, even without treatment. Bleaching creams can lighten up stretch marks that are dark and lightening the skin around light stretch marks can make them less obvious. - Dr. Andrea Trowers

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For more information, please visit Dr. Andrea Trowers' New Beauty Magazine feature.

Office contact info: 10800 Biscayne Boulevard Suite #650 Miami, FL 33161

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Skincare Demystified with Dr. Andrea Trowers - Facial Fillers to Consider

In Miami, the land of the "Beautiful People" - where sun and sand mean that skin is always exposed, Dr. Andrea Trowers, Board Certified Dermatologist based in North Miami Beach, helps enhance all of her client's beauty.

Dr. Trowers exclusively addresses many of your biggest skin care questions in our ongoing series of columns. Her latest column is on the best facial fillers currently on the market that you should consider for softening wrinkles, and enhancing a wide variety of facial features - and why new ones aren't always better. - RLB

Facial Fillers to Consider

If it’s not broken don’t fix it. That pretty much sums up my current philosophy about facial fillers. The right fillers, when injected by the right physician, can soften wrinkles, create or accentuate cheekbones, fill in the dark circles under your eyes and overall freshen up your look. But new fillers are constantly coming into the market and it is important to find a physician who is looking out for you (and most importantly your face’s) best interest and not just their profit margin. Also, you should be suspicious of a doctor who agrees to your demand for the same filler your friend just had. Everyone’s face is different and the aging process affects each person’s face differently. This is the catch 22 of being in shape or thin…your age is going to show on your face quicker than if you are overweight.

Currently my favorite fillers are Radiesse, Restylane, Perlane and Juvaderm. These are all laboratory versions of substances that already naturally occur in your skin. So you cannot be allergic to them. Also they actually stimulate collagen growth (and who ever said no to more of that!). These fillers can last anywhere from five to nine months, depending on the type. I really don’t think longer lasting fillers are a great option…although it would solve the headache of having to go back to see your doctor. Your face changes over time due to weight changes and the normal aging process. I never inject my patients the same way each time because their faces change and I think this contributes to the natural aesthetic I am trying to achieve.

The best option if you are considering fillers it to talk to a board certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon that does a lot of fillers. Recommendations from friends are always a great source. I inject myself, my staff, and my staff’s family so there is always a live demonstration or personal account of the results I have achieved. The physician you speak to should be well versed in the filler types available and be able to quickly determine what filler would be best for you. They should also be explain what the filler can and cannot do for you and they may point out areas for injection that you may not have considered. You should never feel pressured, confused or rushed. Remember this is your face and what is the newest or cheapest is not necessarily the best. - Dr. Andrea Trowers

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For more information, please visit Dr. Andrea Trowers' New Beauty Magazine feature.

Office contact info: 10800 Biscayne Boulevard Suite #650 Miami, FL 33161

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Skincare Demystified with Dr. Andrea Trowers - Hyperpigmentation: What is it and How to Treat It

In Miami, the land of the "Beautiful People" - where sun and sand mean that skin is always exposed, Dr. Andrea Trowers, Board Certified Dermatologist based in North Miami Beach, helps enhance all of her client's beauty.

Dr. Trowers exclusively addresses many of your biggest skin care questions in our ongoing series of columns. Her latest column is another one that you or someone in your life may find extremely helpful, (especially if you are a woman of color). She is sharing with all of us exactly what the very common skin condition called Hyperpigmentation is, how to treat it and prevent it's return. - RLB

Hyperpigmentation - What is it and How to treat it

Nobody wants dark spots on their face. A few freckles are cute, but when you develop large brown splotches on your cheeks, a dark stain above your lips or dark marks on your face that are the tell tale signs of a recent breakout…your cover up methods with makeup eventually leave you fed up and frustrated.

All of those dark marks are due to over activity of your melanocytes (the cells in your skin that produce color). As the result of long term sun damage, inflammation in the skin such as a pimple or the result of hormonal changes while pregnant your melanocytes produce more color than usual which results in hyperpigmentation.

I tell my patients that it’s easy for me to cure their hyperpigmentation but it is their responsibility to prevent its’ return. I cure it with high prescription strength bleaching creams (the active ingredient is hydroquinone). Bleaching creams in low strengths, such as 2%, are available over the counter but I usually start all my patients at an 8 to 10% strength that is only available through specialty compounding pharmacies. I stress to my patients that as long as they use it correctly they will not turn into Michael Jackson! The use of topical retinoids such as Retin A and Tazorac speed the effect of the bleaching cream, but only if used correctly.

Bleaching creams only work if the correct type of sunscreen is also being used. Remember sunscreens only last for two hours and damaging rays come through windows. Many patients tell me “I don’t need sunscreen. I’m never outside.” Well take a look under your bra….because no matter how light or dark your skin is I promise you that the skin under your bra is always lighter than the skin on your face because it is always protected from the sun. So a daily sunscreen with at least 9% zinc oxide or titanium dioxide (which are physical blockers) is required. Potent vitamin c serums, such as Skinceuticals, have the study proven effect of increasing your sunscreens protective abilities.

After the hyperpigmentation has resolved, continued use of sunscreen, Vitamin C and retinoids are required to prevent the return of those dreaded dark spots. The benefit of these preventative creams and serums is that they also improve the appearance of your skin and prevent fine lines and wrinkles. So you have to thank those dark spots for that! - Dr. Andrea Trowers

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For more information, please visit Dr. Andrea Trowers' New Beauty Magazine feature.

Office contact info: 10800 Biscayne Boulevard Suite #650 Miami, FL 33161

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Skincare Demystified with Dr. Andrea Trowers - What is Eczema?

In Miami, the land of the "Beautiful People" - where sun and sand mean that skin is always exposed, Dr. Andrea Trowers, Board Certified Dermatologist based in North Miami Beach, helps enhance all of her client's beauty.

Dr. Trowers exclusively addresses many of your biggest skin care questions in our ongoing series of columns. Her latest column is one that you or someone in your life may find extremely helpful - she is sharing with all of us exactly what the very common skin condition called Eczema is (and when it's not) and how to treat these skin conditions. - RLB

What is Eczema and How to Treat It

Every day in my practice I have patients who come in and say they have eczema. For patients this is a word that describes anything itchy, red and scaly. However in dermatology eczema is only a descriptive word and is in no way related to the underlying cause, as many conditions can result in this presentation.

Many times when patients claim they have eczema, especially in children, they actually have atopic dermatitis. This is caused by an underlying malfunction in the barrier abilities of the skin that results in the its’ inability to hold onto moisture. As a result the skin cracks and secondary inflammation and infection occur. I often describe these individuals’ skin as similar to the dessert. Moisture, moisture and trapping that moisture in are the key to repairing the skin.

Ointments and creams (Aquaphor, Cetaphil and Lipikar are my favorite brands) trap the moisture into moist skin and help to repair the skin barrier. It is important to apply them quickly after a bath or shower or else the water evaporates from your skin and leaves it drier than it was before. Not all lotions are created equal…so the one you choose makes a huge difference.

Topical steroids (which are not absorbed into the blood stream if used correctly) and topical immunomodulatoers (such as protopic and elidel) are required to calm the inflammation in more severe cases of atopic dermatitis. As I frequently have to explain to parents and patients, in order to allow them to overcome their fear of topical steroids, they would have to lock themselves in a room and continuously apply it to their skin for it to be absorbed into their blood…and I never prescribe enough for that to happen! Their skin is steroid deficient and they need it to get better! Once they are better regular moisturization can help to prevent flares. But sometimes because of an illness, change in weather or just because… flares occur…but now they are educated enough to know how to treat it.

Another condition that patients frequently describe as eczema is allergic contact dermatitis. This is also itchy, red and scaly. Even though you may have been in contact with something for years on end…BOOM…one day you can develop an allergy to it. This is a concept many patients find difficult to grasp, especially if it is an allergy to a perfume they have used for the past ten years. I like help patients grasp this concept by asking them if they have ever had a friend turn on them…since most people have this helps them to grasp the concept.

Once the offending agent has been removed the condition quickly resolves. Topical steroids are usually prescribed to hasten the resolution or until the patient figures out the offending agent. Unfortunately no biopsy or test can determine the allergy. The biopsy of the skin just shows a reaction pattern and patch tests only test for specific things. So it’s no guarantee that the positive allergy test correlates to the allergy the patient is having.

So remember what you call eczema may require a dermatologist’s evaluation to determine the best treatment and the cause! - Dr. Andrea Trowers

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For more information, please visit Dr. Andrea Trowers' New Beauty Magazine feature.

Office contact info: 10800 Biscayne Boulevard Suite #650 Miami, FL 33161

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Skincare Demystified with Dr. Andrea Trowers - My Top 5 Skincare Products

In Miami, the land of the "Beautiful People" - where sun and sand mean that skin is always exposed, Dr. Andrea Trowers, Board Certified Dermatologist based in North Miami Beach, helps enhance all of her client's beauty.

Dr. Trowers exclusively addresses many of your biggest skin care questions in our ongoing series of columns. Her latest column is one that all beauty lovers should read - for the first time she is sharing with all of us her top 5 skincare products to make you look positively radiant! - RLB

My Top 5 Skincare Products

Today I’m going to tell you about the skin care products that can make great skin a reality for you in 2010. Patients ask all the time what my staff and I use on our skin and I’m going to provide you with the insider information that can let you get your glow on!

1. Tazorac- This miracle drug is a prescription strength vitamin A cream (aka retinoid). It works like draino on your pores to fight pimples, helps to prevent fine lines and wrinkles, to some degree reverses sun damage, helps to treat melasma and dark spots and the two gel formulations (there are two cream formulations also) minimize oil production. It is stronger, faster and overall just better than any of the other topical retinoids out there. However if your dermatologist does not tell you how to use it correctly it can cause irritation. No one is allergic to it, they just don’t know how to use it. If you can’t afford or tolerate tazorac, don’t underestimate retin a (the generic is tretinoin and it’s just as good as the brand). It has all of the benefits of tazorac, but to a lesser degree. So try to get to the good stuff as soon as possible!

2. Skinceuticals vitamin c serums (especially Phloretin CF)- These products are unbelievable! I admit to not trusting over the counter products to be able to make a significant difference in a patient’s skin. But these serums have the studies and results to back up their pharmaceutical grade products. Vitamin c is an antioxidant and applying it before your sunscreen makes your sunscreen even stronger. Since the sun is the biggest skin ager there is (regardless of your skin type and skin color)…your sunscreen needs all the help it can get! But taking a vitamin c pill or using just any topical vitamin c out there is not beneficial. Vitamin c is a very tricky molecule and it takes a lot of science to get the right formulation and molecule size to get into the skin and provide the desired results. Skinceuticals serums have all that and they give your skin a beautiful glow. My staff and I even put it on before going out at night!

3. Aczone- This prescription drug is your new weapon against acne, oily skin and facial redness. It is a gel that fights acne via an anti-inflammatory mechanism. It can replace your benzoyl peroxide products or be used with them. Its’ advantage over benzoyl peroxide is that….drum roll…it doesn’t bleach out your clothes! So now you don’t have to worry about destroying sheets, towels and clothing with white spots because you were trying to fight a breakout. It also helps to diminish oily skin and facial redness. As one of my patients (whose had rosacea for years and was only minimally improved with oral antibiotics and metrocream) says, “Aczone is the bomb!”

4. Suncreen- I don’t care how old you are or what skin type or color you are. Every single person should be putting on sunscreen every day to their face, chest, arms and hands. Look at a 70 year old with skin of color and one with white skin, blue eyes and blonde hair. The person with skin of color always ages better because of they are naturally protected to some degree from the photoaging effects of the sun because of their skin color. Just imagine if they also used sunscreen every day! Remember after an SPF of 30 there is minimal added benefit and your sunscreen must include either zinc oxide and or titanium dioxide for the best protections. Sunscreen have advanced a lot so find one you like. Two favorites at my office are EltaMD UV Shield SPF 45 oil free sunscreen (no smell, no white residue even on dark skin and really truly not oily) and Colorsciences spf 30 magical powder sunscreens. Yes powder! In a cool re-usable brush applicator and several tints.

5. Skinceuticals Retexturizer- You would think I’m a paid sponsor for this company, but I’m not and it takes a lot to convince me of a products worth. This serum works like a mini peel every day, so it exfoliates your skin but at the same time is a humectant, meaning it sucks moisture in and traps it. My staff and I were given samples when it first came out, but then we forgot about it. But one day one of medical assistants came in and her skin was positively glowing. She’d found it, used it and now we are all obsessed. If your skin is oily just use it at night instead of twice a day.

Using the above products will make ‘Great skin for 2010’ the first resolution you can cross out on your list! - Dr. Andrea Trowers

Go--> Read more of our Skincare Demystified with Dr. Andrea Trowers Columns.

For more information, please visit Dr. Andrea Trowers' New Beauty Magazine feature.

Office contact info: 10800 Biscayne Boulevard Suite #650 Miami, FL 33161

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Skincare Demystified with Dr. Andrea Trowers - Best Way to Prevent a Breakout

In Miami, the land of the "Beautiful People" - where sun and sand mean that skin is always exposed, Dr. Andrea Trowers, Board Certified Dermatologist based in North Miami Beach, helps enhance all of her client's beauty.

Dr. Trowers exclusively addresses many of your biggest skin care questions in our ongoing series of columns. Here's her latest column is one that everyone should read - the best way to prevent a breakout! - RLB

The Best Way to Prevent a Breakout

“How can I stop breaking out like a teenager?” That is a question I hear a lot in practice. Many people mistakenly believe that pimples are only limited to the teenage years. But in reality 25% of the adult population suffers from breakouts and in my experience the numbers are even higher. Acne at any age can have a significant emotional impact, but as an adult it can actually hinder socioeconomic advancement. The best way to prevent acne is to be on a regimen. By seeing a Board Certified Dermatologist it can best be determined what prescriptions are best for your skin. But first it is important to really understand how pimples form so that you know how your medicine works. All acne starts with sticky skin cells that clog your pores, aka comedones. It has nothing to do with what you eat, how much soda you drink or how much you sweat. All old wives tales!

Only retinoids (ex. Retin A, tretinoin, differin or, my favorite, tazorac) work at unclogging those pores. I tell my patient these medicines are like draino for their pores. Every single person over the age of 20 should be on some type of retinoid because long term they can also improve fine lines, skin texture, improve dark spots and in some cases decrease oil production. After the pore is clogged, the perfect environment for propionobacterium acnes (the bacteria that causes acne) to grow and thrive has been created. Your body’s immune response to this overgrowth is inflammation which results in tender red bumps and pustules. Prescription antibiotics by mouth, benzoyl peroxide creams, topical antibiotics, aczone (a new anti-inflammatory gel) and in the worst cases accutane can be used to diminish the degree of inflammation and decrease the amount of p. acnes present in the skin.

After a patient’s acne has been cleared, I tell them that they should stay on a retinoid cream or gel until the day they die or a month prior to starting to try to get pregnant (retinoids are not approved for use while trying to get pregnant, pregnancy or during breast feeding) in order to keep their skin clear. Facials with microdermabrasion are also beneficial when used done every six weeks to two months by a licensed aesthetician familiar with dermatology medications. These treatments eliminate the comedones that retinoids may only be able to loosen.

There is a lot of false information out there about preventing acne. Make sure that your sources are knowledgeable and have the credentials and results to back up what you are being told or sold. And remember that the benefit of having acne as an adult is that otherwise you may not have known about the great creams that can help prevent wrinkles and dark spots after your bumps are cleared!
- Dr. Andrea Trowers

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For more information, please visit Dr. Andrea Trowers' New Beauty Magazine feature.

Office contact info: 10800 Biscayne Boulevard Suite #650 Miami, FL 33161

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Skincare Demystified with Dr. Andrea Trowers - New Uses for Botox

In Miami, the land of the "Beautiful People" - where sun and sand mean that skin is always exposed, Dr. Andrea Trowers, Board Certified Dermatologist based in North Miami Beach, helps enhance all of her client's beauty.

Dr. Trowers exclusively addresses many of your biggest skin care questions in our ongoing series of columns. Here's her latest column on additional uses for Botox . This is a must read for anyone who thinks Botox is just for wrinkles! - RLB

Botox Part 2- New Uses for Botox

Many of my patients love Botox and Dysport because both of these products can erase wrinkles. However there are several other reasons to love these neurotoxins, the most popular of which I’ve listed below. Please note that some of these uses are not FDA approved, but if a patient is informed of the possible risks and complications and signs a consent the procedures can legally be performed by a Board Certified physician.

1.Does someone you know sweat so excessively from their underarms, hands or feet that it causes severe social embaressment? Well 3% of the population does and Botox and Dysport may be just the treatment to save them from ruining another shirt from sweat stains or refusing to shake hands at a business meeting. The release of acetylcholine from nerve endings causes the sweat glands to produce sweat. Injections of Botox and Dysport work by blocking the release of acetylcholine and thus stop sweating. The effect lasts from four to six months. Some insurances now cover the treatment for excessive underarm sweating. Once I even did Botox on a friend’s forehead prior to her wedding so that she wouldn’t sweat on her face and her pictures would be perfect (which they were!).

2. Do you have a fabulous event to go to and the gown you want to wear won’t look good with a bra to give you the lift you need? Well Botox and Dysport may be able to help with that as well. It’s all about opposing muscles. If the muscles that pull your breasts down over time is weakened then the muscle that pulls your breast up can do an even better job. The treatment usually costs around $2,000. If you don’t want to go through the pain and cost of a breast lift this may be an option if your breasts are small to moderately sized.

3. I’ve seen personally how fabulous Botox and Dysport work for migraines. My aesthetician, who has been with me five years, was previously incapacitated by her migraines. She would see flashing lights, vomit and all her facials would have to be cancelled immediately. However once I began treating her she has been migraine free. She definitely loves Botox for her “movie star smile” (she says that because it erases the wrinkles she used to get around her eyes when she smiled), but she loves it even more for stopping her migraines.

The theory is that muscle spasms are involved in migraines and the neurotoxins relax those muscles. At the same time they block the release of proteins that transmit the pain of migraines to the brain. Studies have supported the fact that treatment with neurotoxins can prevent migraines in many cases and in others at least diminish their frequency and severity. The patients I have treated say it’s a life saver.

There are a number of other uses for botox including chronic lower back pain, excessive blinking, treating cross eyes, improving a gummy smile and numerous others. So if you have a concern or problem, mention it to your dermatologist. It may be one that can be cured with Botox or Dysport! - Dr. Andrea Trowers

*Italics editor's own

Dr. Andrea Trowers is a Board Certified Dermatologist who has a private Dermatology practice in North Miami Beach. After graduating from Georgetown University, she completed medical school at Emory University. Her residency in Dermatology was completed at Case Western University, where she was Chief Resident. She then was selected for a fellowship in Pediatric Dermatology at the University at Miami, where she later joined the faculty in the Department of Dermatology. She is an expert in conditions affecting the skin, hair and nails and strives to provide personalized expertise and treatment to each of her many patients. Dr. Trowers' practice also includes cosmetic treatments such as Botox, Dysport and fillers. Her approach to cosmetic treatments is a 'natural aesthetic' that enhances a patient's existing beauty.

For more information, please visit Dr. Andrea Trowers' New Beauty Magazine feature.

Office contact info: 10800 Biscayne Boulevard Suite #650 Miami, FL 33161

Go--> Read more of our Skincare Demystified with Dr. Andrea Trowers Columns.

Like this feature? Keep up with all our beauty news, reviews and features as they happen by following us on Twitter!

Skincare Demystified with Dr. Andrea Trowers - Botox and Dysport Myths

In Miami, the land of the "Beautiful People" - where sun and sand mean that skin is always exposed, Dr. Andrea Trowers, Board Certified Dermatologist based in North Miami Beach, helps enhance all of her client's beauty.

Dr. Trowers exclusively addresses many of your biggest skin care questions in our ongoing series of columns. Here's her latest column on Botox and Dysport Myths. This is a must read for anyone who is considering getting an injectible treatment! - RLB

Botox and Dysport Myths

As a Dermatologist, I hear a number of urban legends about Botox and Dysport every day. The fact is that both of these products are extremely safe neurotoxins that relax wrinkles and have been proven in a number of studies to boost self-esteem. Below I have listed the top 5 myths about these products (that I hear almost everyday from my patients!) and my responses.

Myth #1 “Botox and Dysport injections will leave your face frozen.” Actually the goal of these products is not to leave your face looking like a mask. By relaxing the muscles in the forehead, between the eyebrows and around the eyes a more youthful and relaxed facial expression can be achieved. Of course an overzealous injector can produce a “frozen” look, so it is important to research the physician you choose and make sure their aesthetic goals match yours.

Myth #2 “The effect of the injections is there one day and gone the next.” Actually both Botox and Dysport take three to four months to wear off. This process does not happen all of sudden, instead the loss of the neurotoxins effect is gradual. Some patients prefer to be re-injected before they have returned to baseline, while others wait until it is completely gone. The benefit of earlier re-injections is that you can prevent etched in wrinkles from reappearing.

Myth #3 “The treatment is very expensive.” The cost of treatment ranges from $300 to $350 for one area (the forehead, the area between the eyebrows and the crows feet of both eyes is each considered one area). The benefit of competition is that since Dysport’s introduction both Botox and Dysport have come out with coupons that can save the patient $50 to $75 dollars.

Myth #4 “When the effects wear off my wrinkles will be worse than before.” After three to four months your wrinkles return to the appearance they had before. They look no worse and in many cases are much softer than they were before.

Myth #5 “The effects are immediate.” After injection the effects can take up to one week to be visible. So don’t book an appointment the day before your class reunion.

Myth #6 “Nobody else I know does it.” Actually all the friends that you keep thinking look great are getting it done and just not telling you!

I hope this dispels some of the common myths about Botox and Dysport. If you have any other concerns about this treatment, please discuss them with your local Board Certified Dermatologist. - Dr. Andrea Trowers

*Italics editor's own

Dr. Andrea Trowers is a Board Certified Dermatologist who has a private Dermatology practice in North Miami Beach. After graduating from Georgetown University, she completed medical school at Emory University. Her residency in Dermatology was completed at Case Western University, where she was Chief Resident. She then was selected for a fellowship in Pediatric Dermatology at the University at Miami, where she later joined the faculty in the Department of Dermatology. She is an expert in conditions affecting the skin, hair and nails and strives to provide personalized expertise and treatment to each of her many patients. Dr. Trowers' practice also includes cosmetic treatments such as Botox, Dysport and fillers. Her approach to cosmetic treatments is a 'natural aesthetic' that enhances a patient's existing beauty.

For more information, please visit Dr. Andrea Trowers' New Beauty Magazine feature.

Office contact info: 10800 Biscayne Boulevard Suite #650 Miami, FL 33161

Go--> Read more of our Skincare Demystified with Dr. Andrea Trowers Columns.

Like this feature? Keep up with all our beauty news, reviews and features as they happen by following us on Twitter!