Summer is here and we find ourselves talking about sun protection and sunscreen use every day in our clinic. Frequently, my patients with skin of color ask me whether their dark skin provide them with good protection or if they have to wear sunscreen. The answer is a resounding YES! All skin types should be wearing sunscreen. We all have the same number of melanocytes, the skin cells responsible for producing melanin. While individuals with darker skin may have more melanin production which protects them from some UV absorption, it does not provide a strong enough defense against the harmful, … Continue reading »
Gel polish for manicures and pedicures has become so popular! The polish lasts a long time and doesn’t chip. Dr. Prasanthi Kandula herself loves a gel manicure before a vacation or a conference. But a recently published study has made her question this treatment – is gel polish really safe? Should we limit the number of gel manicures and pedicures we get? UV lamps are essential for hardening the gel polish. These lamps emit UVA light just like tanning beds and natural sunlight. A recently published study from the University of California San Diego showed that human and mouse cells … Continue reading »
Many women come into our practice during the fall and winter months looking for cellulite treatment options to address dimples or uneven, rippling texture on their thighs and buttocks. While for the longest time most treatments on the market were smoke and mirrors, new procedures have given our patients satisfying results. Avéli is the latest addition to our cellulite armamentarium. Cellulite is caused by a combination of fat, dimpling from fibrous bands, and skin laxity. It is primarily the results of genetics and hormones. As a result, its appearance can be difficult to treat. Patients find cellulite frustrating because diet … Continue reading »
Acne is one of the most common skin conditions that affect our patients. Actually 40-50 million people suffer from acne annually in the US. As dermatologists, we evaluate and treat patients with acne in the Boston area multiple times a day. Fortunately, we have many effective acne treatments at our disposal, including three recently-launched topical ones. Dr. Prasanthi Kandula, who has used these innovative acne treatments with good results, shares how they differ from existing ones. A quick overview of acne and common treatments Acne is commonly thought of as a problem in adolescence, but we often see acne persist … Continue reading »
The International Hyperhidrosis Society celebrates November as Hyperhidrosis Awareness Month and what a perfect time to review the hyperhidrosis treatment options available. Hyperhidrosis is a medical condition characterized by excessive, uncontrollable sweating. Nearly 5% of the world’s population suffer from hyperhidrosis. It is can affect the underarms, hands, feet, face and other areas. We understand the embarrassment and anxiety our patients face when sweating through their shirts or having excess sweat on their hands in everyday situations. Luckily, there have been some advances in the field of hyperhidrosis treatment over the last decade, and we can help. Here is a … Continue reading »
The eyes are often the first part we notice about someone and many of us don’t like when our eyes look tired. Our patients are frequently seeking treatments to help rejuvenate their tired eyes, AKA periorbital area, hoping for a “younger” and refreshed look! While sometimes plastic surgery is needed, a combination of minimally invasive treatments may be sufficient in select patients. The tired look can come from fine lines around the eyes, hollowing and darkening under the eyes, excess skin of the upper and lower eyelids, or lowering of the eyebrows. Dr. Prasanthi Kandula likes to approach a cosmetic … Continue reading »
