SkinCare Physicians Blog offers insights on the latest in medical and surgical dermatology, cosmetic and laser medicine, as well as aesthetics. All of our internationally recognized physicians and some members of our staff contribute to the Skincare Physicians Blog.
Bullous pemphigoid (BP) is a rare skin disease that mostly affects older adults over 60. It happens when the immune system mistakenly attacks a layer of the skin, leading to painful blisters, redness, and intense itching. While the cause is not fully understood, we now have Dupixent to treat the BP disease. Limitations of current BP treatments Until now, the main treatment for BP has been high-dose steroids, sometimes combined with other immune-suppressing drugs. While these medicines can help calm the disease, they often cause serious side effects like infections, weight gain, bone loss, and diabetes. Many patients also see … Continue reading »
When I was in my early twenties, I battled a severe and stubborn case of acne. I had dealt with acne since my teens, but this was different. I noticed some improvement with a combination of topicals and oral antibiotics, but I was still breaking out and I was worried about permanent scarring. It was more than just a skin issue; it affected my confidence and even my willingness to socialize with friends. After trialing other therapies for a few months, my dermatologist recommended isotretinoin, more commonly known as Accutane. I was nervous after reading about the treatment, but it … Continue reading »
If you have ever looked in the mirror and noticed dimpling or uneven texture on your thighs or buttocks, you’re not alone. That’s most likely cellulite, a common, completely normal skin condition that affects over 90% of women, regardless of weight or fitness level. While cellulite is harmless, many of us wish we could smooth out these dimples and feel more confident in our skin. That’s where Avéli, a minimally invasive, in-office treatment developed at SkinCare Physicians, comes in. The device enables our dermatologists to directly and precisely target the root cause of cellulite for long-lasting results. Before I dive … Continue reading »
Chronic hives, also known as chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU), is characterized by persistent hives lasting six weeks or more. It is increasingly understood as an autoimmune condition. In many cases, the immune system mistakenly targets healthy tissue, triggering the release of histamine and other inflammatory chemicals. This leads to the itching, swelling, and redness typical of the condition. For those who don’t respond to antihistamines, there are now two FDA-approved advanced therapies for CSU: Xolair (omalizumab), a biologic therapy that targets immunoglobulin E (IgE), and Dupixent (dupilumab), another biologic treatment which blocks key inflammatory pathways involved in the immune response. … Continue reading »
If you’re looking to improve fine lines and wrinkles, remove brown spots, rejuvenate sun-damaged skin, and restore a youthful complexion, Fraxel (AKA fractional resurfacing laser) may be your new favorite treatment. SkinCare Physicians’ dermatologists helped to pioneer laser skin resurfacing in the 1990’s. The results were nothing short of spectacular, but the procedure was not without significant risks. Fast-forward to today, and Fraxel has changed everything. Thanks to groundbreaking research at Harvard Medical School, the Fraxel laser introduced a gentler, much safer way to resurface the skin. Instead of treating the entire surface, Fraxel’s fractionated laser beam targets 1000’s of … Continue reading »
If you’ve reached your goal weight but still struggle with stubborn areas of fat that won’t go away – no matter how hard you work out or how healthy you eat – liposuction might be the solution to help fine-tune your results. This body contouring procedure is not about weight loss; it’s about reshaping and sculpting areas that are resistant to diet and exercise. At SkinCare Physicians, Dr. Labadie and her team perform liposuction near Boston using tumescent anesthesia, a safe and effective technique that eliminates the need for general anesthesia. You are awake during the procedure, but completely comfortable … Continue reading »
Hair loss isn’t just cosmetic, it’s a medical issue and often a reflection of our body’s internal health. In many cases, early intervention can delay or even prevent further hair thinning or shedding. Recognizing the first signs of hair loss is essential so you can act quickly. Dr. Molly Stout shares what to look for and when it’s time to call your dermatologist. You’ve discovered a small hairless patch on our scalp A well-defined, round bald spot that appeared with no symptoms like pain, burning or itching, may be the first sign of alopecia areata, an autoimmune condition where your … Continue reading »
When it comes to Botox and filler treatments, our dermatologists’ goal is to make you look like the best version of yourselves. Natural-looking results are all about enhancing your features subtly and artfully. Dr. Christman shares five smart tips to help you start your aesthetic journey with confidence and steer clear of disappointing results. 1- Choose the Right Injector You only get one face, so trust it to the best hands possible. Look for a board-certified dermatologist, someone trained and qualified to prioritize both safety and artistry. If a practice’s website doesn’t explicitly say “board-certified dermatologist,” please ask questions. It’s … Continue reading »
If you’ve ever suspected that your skincare or household products are causing a rash, patch testing may reveal the specific allergen(s) at the root of the problem. At SkinCare Physicians, Dr. Molly Stout evaluates patients with skin rashes, also known as allergic contact dermatitis, through a structured, week-long patch testing process. Read on to find out how patch testing works to solve the mystery of skin allergies. Why it’s hard to identify skin allergens Our immune system, particularly the component housed in our skin, is quite adaptive. A signature scent you’ve worn for years, could one day cause a dreadful, swollen … Continue reading »
Curious about what to expect at your Botox or filler visit? Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned pro, preparation and understanding go a long way toward ensuring a smooth and rewarding experience. From arriving makeup-free to managing post-treatment care, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Keep reading for tips, timelines and advice to feel confident, comfortable, and ready to enjoy your refreshed, natural results. Come prepared Arrive with a clean face or be ready to remove your makeup upon arrival. While most people find the injections manageable, consider taking Tylenol an hour beforehand if you’re … Continue reading »
