Hemangiomas and Skin Treatment for Infants

Infants can sometimes develop hemangiomas more commonly known as red spots. They often look similar to a birthmark and usually do not cause pain or harm.  Approximately one in 10 to 20 Caucasian children are affected by hemangiomas.  Although the exact cause is still unknown, they are likely caused by embolized cells that lie dormant during intrauterine life and begin to proliferate after birth to form the spots.

Most red spots on infants occur on the head or neck area; however, they can appear anywhere on the body. Although hemangiomas typically disappear over time, they can occasionally become fast-growing which causes concern for parents.   Usually red spots appear on the body as a superficial lesion or on top of skin. However, if a lesion is deeper or expands rapidly, a plaque-like tumor can appear which may need surgical removal.  Other treatments available for removing red spots that do not fade over time include laser treatment, prescription medications, and cryotherapy.

The board certified dermatologists at Dermatology Associates of Atlanta are highly skilled and experienced in removing and treating this skin condition. During a skin analysis consultation, our dermatologists can determine what treatment would provide the most effective results for the patient.  Discoloration of the skin and other common skin conditions affecting infants such as hyperpigmentation can also be treated by our providers.

If you are interested in learning more about red spots or other skin conditions, please contact our office today. Be sure to connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest for the latest dermatology news and information.

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Atlanta Spider and Varicose Vein Elimination with Kathryn Filipek MPAS, PA-C

Although typically not a medical concern, spider and varicose veins can be unsightly and sometimes even painful. Appearing on the legs and the face, there are countless possible causes of these visible veins, but only a handful of proven treatments. Dermatology Associates of Atlanta provider Kathryn Filipek MPAS, PA-C performs sclerotherapy, Veinwave™ vein elimination, laser vein treatment, Vbeam Perfecta ™, and FotoFacial® treatments to reduce the appearance of these veins.

It is important to understand that spider and varicose veins do not serve a purpose and do not function normally, so vein reduction treatment is safe. Spider veins are branch-like veins that often show up on the legs and face. Varicose veins are also commonly found on the legs, appearing as swollen or raised blood vessels beneath the skin’s surface. Prior to the aforementioned technologies at Dermatology Associates of Atlanta’s Atlanta Center for Veins, more invasive techniques were used to treat veins like vein stripping (vein litigation) or the surgical removal of unwanted veins. Now, it’s easier than ever for patients to get rid of their spider and varicose veins.

The type of vein treatment used to treat spider and varicose veins depends on the size of the unwanted veins present. During a consultation, we will determine which treatment will best meet your specific needs. Sclerotherapy is a procedure to reduce varicose veins in which a sclerosing agent is injected into the veins. The sclerosing agent works by shrinking and minimizing the appearance of the damaged vein. Depending on the size of the vein, varicose veins can usually be permanently removed in three to four treatment sessions.

Patients with spider veins may benefit from Veinwave™ vein elimination. Veinwave™ eliminates spider veins on the face and legs through the use of ultrafine needles and heat without a risk of skin discoloration (hyperpigmentation). This minimally invasive treatment is applied subepidermally and only penetrates the top layer of skin. It does not penetrate the vein itself. Most patients reach their desired results in just one treatment, but an additional treatment session may be necessary for maximum results depending on the size of the veins.

Patients who wish to remove spider veins from their face can receive FotoFacial® IPL treatment to minimize the appearance of spider veins and even rosacea symptoms without impacting the surface of the delicate facial skin. FotoFacial® treatment not only targets and reduces the appearance of spider veins, but it also stimulates collagen production and minimizes wrinkles. Most patients receive four to six FotoFacial® treatments for optimal results. Our V-beam Perfecta™ laser that we often use to treat patients with rosacea symptoms in the Laser Institute of Georgia provides an alternative laser treatment for spider veins. Using micropulse technology, the V-beam laser successfully reduces the appearance of spider veins while also reducing redness and inflammation often associated with rosacea.

If you’re concerned with spider or varicose veins, schedule a consultation with Kathryn Filipek today so she can help you determine which treatment method will best meet your needs. Visit our website to learn more about other skin conditions and treatments, as well as cosmetic procedures performed in Dermatology Associates of Atlanta’s eight specialty centers. If you haven’t already, be sure to connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+ for skin care news and updates.

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Don’t Miss Our Special on Chemical Peels!

Now through January 31st, 2012, you can save $50 on some of your favorite Skin Medica® chemical peels from Skin Medics™ Medical Spa. Enjoy a Vitalize Peel® for only $100 to reduce the appearance of melasma, sun damage, and acne with one treatment and no downtime. For a deeper peel that will improve moderate to severe acne, acne scarring, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation, try our Rejuvenize Peel™ for $200. Contact us to schedule your appointment today.

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Study Emphasizes Sun Protection over Water Consumption for Beautiful Skin

We’ve all heard that drinking 8 glasses of water a day keeps your skin glowing and dewy. However, a recent investigation by the British Nutrition Foundation found that protecting your skin from the sun along with maintaining a healthy diet is much more important in achieving a healthy complexion and fighting the signs of aging.

While drinking water is important as part of adequate nutrition, forcing down 8 glasses a day to keep your skin hydrated may not be necessary. According to the BNF, “There currently appears to be very little scientific evidence relating to the effects of water consumption on skin hydration, and whether drinking more or less water actually has any impact on skin appearance.” Instead, eating a healthy range of fruits and vegetables that contain vitamins A, B, C, and E and wearing a broad-spectrum sunscreen every day are better actions to prevent wrinkles and fine lines.

Unprotected sun exposure is a proven cause of skin cancer as well as wrinkles and hyperpigmentation. This is one reason that legislation in California was recently passed that banned teens under 18 from tanning salons even if they had their parents’ permission. Sun exposure breaks down the support structures in the skin speeding up the aging process and producing fine lines and sunspots.

While it’s still important to regularly drink water, Dermatology Associates of Atlanta encourages our patients to take further measures to ensure the health of their skin and postpone the signs of aging from appearing.

For more information on anti-aging, skin cancer prevention or treatment, skincare, or dermatology contact us.  You can also find us on Facebook and Twitter with the latest in dermatology news and updates!

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