A report on Medwire-news.com details a study which shows that Pulsed-dye laser(PDL), aka Vbeam, is an effective treatment for acne (Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology).  The study consisted of 20 patients who were treated with PDL on one side of their face and another laser on the other side of the face.  While both laser treatments were effective in improving facial acne, a histopathological assesment “showed a reduced inflammatory reaction… this was more pronounced in the PDL-treated sides.”  Additionally, the study also found that acne stayed away longer on the sides treated with PDL. 

In our office, we often treat patients with Vbeam, in addition to Smoothbeam laser to treat acne.  Laser treatments offer patients an alternative to traditional acne treatments.  Multiple treatments are often needed, but the results can be dramatic.  To learn more about Pulsed-dye laser, follow this link to our website: Laser treatment of acne

Before treatment with Vbeam and Smoothbeam

After treatment with Vbeam and Smoothbeam laser

Image from beauty-budget.com

Until recently, dermatologists have advised their patients to wear a minimum SPF 15 sunscreen.  But recent findings have prompted the American Academy of Dermatology to increase the minimum recommendation to 30.  According to  Arielle N.B. Kauvar, M.D., chair of the Academy’s Council on Communications, “research shows that most people are only applying 25 to 50 percent of the recommended amount of sunscreen.”  She goes on to say, “if you apply only half the amount that you should using an SPF 15, you are probably only getting the equivalent of an SPF 7 or 8, which is insufficient protection” (JAAD, Academy ups minimum SPF recommendation from 15 to 30 by Richard Nelson).

CORRECT SUNSCREEN APPLICATION

*It takes one ounce of sunscreen (enough to fill a shot glass) to cover the exposed parts of your body

*Apply SPF 30 or higher sunscreen liberally

*Apply sunscreen 20 minutes before going out in the sun

*Reapply often, about every one to two hours, especially after going in the water or sweating

*Sunscreen is needed even during the colder months, and while doing actvities such as skiing or snowboarding

For other helpful information on skin care, please visit American Academy of Dermatology or Derm SD patient resources