Hyperpigmentation is one of the most common – and frustrating – skin disorders, with millions of people around the world suffering from the condition to varying degrees. The condition is caused by an increase in melanin due to illness or injury, causing the skin to become visibly, but not uniformly, darker. There are many possible reasons for this increased level of melanin, including sun exposure, aging, infection, pregnancy, certain drugs, and glandular disorders. (continue reading…)

Although severe acne is associated with the teen years by many people, it can arise in people of all ages. While some people with acne experience good results with over-the-counter medications or simply allowing the condition to resolve itself on its own, others require the help of an expert dermatologist, such as Dr. Darrell Gonzales. At our La Jolla dermatology practice, Dr. Gonzales offers a variety of popular acne treatments to his patients, giving them the opportunity to have clear, healthy, radiant skin and all of the confidence that goes with it. (continue reading…)

Patients who want smoother and more youthful looking skin on the face have more options than ever to achieve results they desire. There are many types of chemical peels and treatments available to safely rejuvenate the skin; these treatments are designed to remove old skin from the surface and reveal the more beautiful skin that lies just beneath. (continue reading…)

The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) released a portion of its 2011 cosmetic procedure statistics last month; once again, botulinum toxin type A procedures topped the list of the most commonly performed minimally invasive treatments. (continue reading…)

As we move into the fall season I am being asked by many as to what products and procedures can reverse the sun damage developed over the summer.  Sun spots, freckles, and wrinkles certainly seem to appear faster as we maximize our fun outdoor activities.  Fortunately, there are an amazing number of treatment options available to help reverse the damage done.  

One of my favorite procedures to remove sun damage is the Lumenis Intense Pulse Light (IPL) therapy.  This advanced photorejuvenating system is a non-invasive procedure with little to no down time that will leave you with a more refreshed and beautiful appearance.  Also referred to as a photofacial, IPL  utilizes a broad spectrum of light that is filtered down to target the imperfections in your skin, such as sun spots, freckles, dilated capillaries, redness, and scars. The face, neck, chest, arms and hands are common areas for treatment.  To maximize the benefits, I personally perform the procedure on my patients.  With just a few 20 minute sessions you will discover new confidence in the glowing and healthy appearance of your skin.

Like IPL, chemical peels have a wonderful benefit for rejuvenating the quality and texture of your skin.  These peels have become extremely sophisticated over the last several years and can have tremendous benefit with little downtime.  Acne, fine lines and wrinkles, and pigmentation abnormalities are some of the many skin problems addressed with peels.  There are many different types of peels available depending on your skin type and skin goals.  I enjoy spending time with my patients determining which peel will be best for them.  Options include glycolic acid peels, salicylic acid peels, and Jessner’s peels. When patients perform a series of chemical peels spaced apart every three to four weeks their complexions can have tremendous improvement.    

In addition to cosmetic procedures, there are a number of topical agents that can help reverse the oxidizing effects of sun damage, stimulate new collagen, and remove fine lines and wrinkles.  One of my favorite products that I recommend daily to my patients, friends and family is Biocream by Neocutis.  This topical skin rejuvenating agent contains a mixture of human growth factors and cytokines that has been shown in scientific studies to have tremendous benefit in combating skin aging.  Neocutis Biocream is now available at Coastal Medical and Cosmetic Dermatology and has become the product of choice for many of my patients for improving the health and beauty of their skin.

All of us need to continue to wear sunscreen on a daily basis and remember to reapply it every two hours when out in the sun.  This will help to prevent further damage to our skin as well as reduce our risk for skin cancer in the future.  Although many patients are frustrated with the amount of photodamage they have accumulated over their lifetimes, there are many products and procedures now available to help rejuvenate the health of their skin.  Please call our office today and make an appointment to discuss your goals and learn about all of the wonderful treatment options now available.  I look forward to helping you rejuvenate and restore the natural health of your skin.