November is Healthy Skin Awareness Month!

Everyone knows eating healthy food is good for you, but if you have psoriasis, it’s even more crucial that you nourish your skin with certain nutritional foods and avoid others to reduce flare-ups. 

Psoriasis is More Than Skin Deep

Psoriasis is associated with comorbidity, meaning it is associated with one or more disorders (or diseases) in addition to the primary disease of psoriasis. By following a healthier lifestyle, the less likelihood conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular disease and Crohn’s disease can affect your life. 

Foods to Avoid

A lot of the foods that psoriatics should avoid are also foods identified by nutritionists as those that contribute to a host of other health problems. Avoid these foods to reduce psoriasis flare-ups:

• Processed foods

• Sugary foods (white flour, white rice)

• Omega-6 fatty acids (red meat, cow’s milk, vegetable shortening)

• Alcohol

• Gluten

 Gluten and Psoriasis

In recent years, much has come to the forefront about gluten sensitivity. About 25% of psoriatics are also sensitive to gluten products. Gluten is found in wheat, barley and rye foods and is included in a variety of everyday staples—bread, pasta, cheese, dressings, soy sauce, etc. 

Foods that Help

Foods that help psoriatics reduce the amount of inflammation include:

• Omega-3 fatty acids (walnuts, fish such as salmon, anchovies, sardines and mackerel)

• Seeds (sunflower, pumpkin, flax)

• Monosaturated fatty acids (avocados, olive oil)

• Leafy green vegetables (kale, spinach, collard greens, swiss chard)

• Colorful vegetables (red cabbage, red, orange and yellow peppers)

• Fresh fruit

 Remember, what we eat is who we are. Following a healthy diet not only helps to reduce psoriasis symptoms, but can set you up for a longer, more active lifestyle.

What is a Glycolic (AHA) Peel?

Glycolic peels use alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) to freshen and rejuvenate your skin by removing dead and damaged skin cells from the top layer. They are especially effective for skin that is showing visible signs of aging and sun damage, and for those who want to liven up their appearance with skin renewal and healthy glow.

At Windsor Dermatology, patients experience minimal discomfort and downtime associated with this procedure and quick results are clearly visible after only one treatment. They report smoother, healthier looking skin, with a more even skin tone and a reduction in fine lines and discolorations.

How Does a Glycolic (AHA) Peel Work?

The aging process and years of sun exposure slow the rate of cell replacement – leaving old, dead or damaged cells on the top layer of skin. These dead cells bond together and inhibit the generation of new healthy cells to replace them. This makes your skin look dull, uneven and older than it should.

Our aesthetician applies a 30-70% glycolic acid solution that loosens the bond that holds these dead skin cells together, revealing a new layer of skin that is fresher, smother and more youthful in appearance. Glycolic acid also helps to stimulate your body’s production of collagen and elastin – these also help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

How Often Do I Need a Glycolic (AHA) Peel?

Patients generally report seeing a noticeable improvement after only one peel; however, because glycolic peels are milder than other types of treatments, you may need several treatments to achieve the maximum desired results. Our aesthetician will be able to advise you on the number of recommended treatments for your condition, following an initial evaluation and treatment. 

From past experience, we have found that three to six sessions are initially required to achieve ideal results, as skin texture continues to improve over several months. These will be scheduled at regular intervals until the desired outcome is achieved. Many patients choose to maintain their results with additional treatments, based upon the aesthetician’s guidance and recommendations.

 

What Can I Expect After Each Treatment?

A glycolic peel is the ideal minimal to no downtime solution for many common skin problems. In fact, many patients schedule the procedure during their lunch breaks and return to work or other daily activities immediately following the procedure. You may experience some redness immediately following the procedure and some light flaking for up to a week.

What Are the Overall Benefits of a Glycolic (AHA) Peel?

After your glycolic peel, you will notice improved skin texture, and your face will be softer and smoother, both to the touch and in appearance. You may notice a reduction in fine lines and wrinkles. Your skin tone will appear more even and your complexion may be brighter, with less blotchiness and discoloration. Best of all, you may hear from others how wonderful you look…because you do!

Why Windsor Dermatology? 

We understand patients  may  be overwhelmed with the myriad skincare alternatives available today. Windsor Dermatology’s licensed and accredited aesthetician is trained to recommend a personal skincare treatment plan, based on a thorough analysis and assessment of your individual needs. Our aesthetician can also suggest a home-based regimen that will complement and maintain your treatment-based, in-office procedures.

Reverse the Aging Process with Glycolic (AHA) Peels

Discover how Windsor Dermatology can help you turn back time and improve your appearance with glycolic (AHA) peels, performed by our staff aesthetician. Glycolic peels are a non-invasive alternative to traditional surgical methods, and they have been shown to be effective in treating/eliminating the following skin conditions:

• ·        Sun-damaged skin

• ·        Fine lines and wrinkles

• ·        Tired or old-looking skin

• ·        Skin discoloration

• ·        Dull skin that has lost its luster

Our patients are always assured of receiving the most advanced treatments and personalized care from our highly skilled medical aesthetician. If you are experiencing a skincare-related issue, we invite you to contact our office to schedule a consultation - (609) 443-4500.

Here Comes Winter! Skincare Tips for the Months Ahead

Winter takes a toll on everyone’s skin, but dry indoor heated rooms, cold, wind and heavy clothing can pose special challenges when you have psoriasis. A combination of dry air, decreased sunlight exposure, colder temperatures and holiday stress can all contribute to winter psoriasis flares.

In additional to seasonal environmental and emotional factors, people who have psoriasis need to be especially cautious about contracting strep throat, which usually strikes in winter months. A strep infection will cause psoriasis to flare badly, so it is wise to pay attention for any symptoms of strep and see your dermatologist if you are experiencing any symptoms.

But instead of yearning for summer, those with psoriasis should view winter as a chance to pamper yourself and control psoriasis at the same time. Try these psoriasis care tips as the weather turns colder:

Smooth on Moisturizer: The drier your skin gets, due to less humidity in the outside and inside air, the worse the psoriasis patches can look and feel. Keep your skin moist to reduce redness and itching to help heal psoriasis patches. The thicker the cream or ointment, the better it is at locking moisture into your skin. Use moisturizing soap and a creamy lotion after you shower, bathe or wash your hands. Choose fragrance-free products to avoid allergic reactions.

Choose Soothing Baths over Hot Showers: Long showers in hot water remove moisture from your skin. Shower in warm water just long enough to soap up and rinse off. Or relax in the tub. Add bath oil, oilated oatmeal, Epsom salts, or Dead Sea salts in a warm bath. Soak for about 15 minutes to slough off psoriasis scales, soothe itching and unwind. Apply moisturizer immediately after bathing.

Use a Humidifier: To wake up with moist and smooth skin, use a humidifier. Run it in your bedroom at night to counter the drying effects of indoor heating.

Wear Soft Layers: Frosty temperatures and wind can irritate your skin, triggering psoriasis flare-ups. They can also make psoriatic arthritis more painful. Dress in layers that you can peel off to avoid getting overheated as sweating can make psoriasis worse. Avoid wool, denim and other fabrics which are more likely to irritate your skin than cotton.

Drink Water: To pump up moisture, drink plenty of water.

Ease Stress: The winter holidays are full of cheer, but they also bring stress, which can make psoriasis flare. Plan time to relax during the holidays. Try a massage or moisturizing spa treatment. Exercise is a terrific stress reliever and may help protect you from flare-ups. Anything that helps you relax―including meditative yoga, listening to music or reading a book―can help keep your stress and your psoriasis under control.

Lighten Your Mood: Psoriasis increases your risk of depression. If you also have seasonal affective disorder―depression linked to less sunlight in winter and fall―these months are an extra challenge. If you’re consistently sad or depressed, talk to your dermatologist. He or she may suggest phototherapy to lift your mood.

Our power has been restored!

We ask for your continued patience as we work to reschedule appointments from the past week. Thank you!

Thank you for your patience!

Windsor Dermatology's office is still without power. Thank you for your patience as we work through the effects of Hurricane Sandy.

Tis the Season for a Phyto-Pumpkin Enzyme Peel

As a recently formulated alternative to glycolic, phyto-pumpkin enzyme peels are ideal for patients with sensitive or intolerant skin or rosacea. The pumpkin enzyme comprising the peel contains hundreds of valuable nutrients that can reverse signs of aging and return your skin to a more youthful appearance. With powerful antioxidants, this all-natural peel deep cleans and exfoliates, restoring skin to a vibrant and healthy-looking state. 

At Windsor Dermatology, patients enjoy the instant results that this peel delivers along with its antioxidant and moisture-enhancing properties. The beta-carotene and Vitamin A present in this peel deliver smoother, firmer skin, along with a reduction in fine lines and wrinkles.

How Does a Phyto-Pumpkin Enzyme Work?

As a natural skin repair therapy for patients who may be sensitive to chemical peels, the non-abrasive phyto-pumpkin enzyme peel is an excellent treatment alternative for acne, Rosacea, fine lines, wrinkles, darks spots and discolorations. The phyto-pumpkin enzyme peel is rich in nutrients and antioxidants that rejuvenate and restore younger-looking skin.

This all-natural peel contains Vitamin A and beta-carotene, powerful antioxidants that restore moisture to the skin, reduce the appearance of wrinkles, and remove damaging free radicals that disrupt the production of healthy new cells. And while this peel is on your face, you’re sure to enjoy the luscious smell as it works to return your skin to a noticeable glow and a more even skin tone.

How Often Do I Need a Phyto-Pumpkin Enzyme Peel?

You will see visible results after only one treatment, but because phyto-pumpkin enzyme peels are so much milder than chemical peels, it may take several treatments to achieve the results you’re seeking. Our aesthetician will recommend the number of treatments necessary for your condition, and the proper schedule for you to follow, until your desired outcome is achieved. Many patients choose to maintain their results with additional treatments, based upon the aesthetician’s guidance and recommendations.

What Can I Expect After Each Treatment?

A phyto-pumpkin enzyme peel is a gentle treatment for common skin problems that can be administered in only a matter of minutes. In fact, many patients schedule the procedure during their lunch breaks and return to work or other daily activities immediately following the procedure. Because it is formulated for sensitive skin, you shouldn’t experience any side effects as a result of treatment.

What Are the Overall Benefits of a Phyto-Pumpkin Enzyme Peel?

After your phyto-pumpkin enzyme peel, your skin will feel suppler and your face will be softer and smoother due to the action of the various nutrients in this treatment. You may notice a reduction in fine lines and wrinkles. Your skin tone may appear more even and your complexion may be brighter. And with time, healthy new cells will replace the old dead cells.

Why Windsor Dermatology? 

We understand that patients may be overwhelmed by the myriad skincare alternatives available today. Windsor Dermatology’s licensed and accredited aesthetician is trained to recommend a personal skincare treatment plan, based on a thorough analysis and assessment of your individual needs. Our aesthetician can also suggest a home-based regimen that will complement and maintain your treatment-based, in-office procedures.

Protecting Sensitive Skin with Phyto-Pumpkin Enzyme Peels

Discover how Windsor Dermatology can help return your skin to a healthier, softer and smoother appearance with a phyto-pumpkin enzyme peel, performed by our staff aesthetician. Phyto-pumpkin enzyme peels are a gentle and natural alternative to stronger and more abrasive peels, yet they have been shown to be equally effective in treating/eliminating the following skin conditions:

• Dry skin 
•  Fine lines and wrinkles
• Acne
• Skin discoloration
• Clogged pores
• Sun damage
• Rosacea

Our patients are always assured of receiving the most advanced treatments and personalized care from our highly skilled medical aesthetician. If you are experiencing a skincare-related issue, we invite you to contact our office to schedule a consultation - 609-443-4500.

---