Gone are the days when sun worshippers lathered on the baby oil or Crisco and baked for hours on end through the dog days of summer! Surprisingly, it hasn’t been that long since physicians became aware of the harmful effects of the suns ultraviolet radiation emission, and even less so since we discovered that UVB rays were not the only harmful rays to avoid. It is now widely proven that UVA sunrays are equally as harmful to human skin and perhaps the primary source of skin aging in Caucasians. And, it is highly possible that we will continue to discover new and different wavelengths in the sun’s emissions that are also harmful as we further our scientific studies. Buzz kill? Not so fast.

Many new and effective sun-blocking agents are available over the counter, such as products offered by Obagi®, to help minimize damage to our skin as we enjoy outdoor activities. Although it takes due diligence and a small amount of time, responsible application of these newer sunscreens and sun blocks can help us maintain our youthful skin appearance for years to come. More importantly, it can help to mitigate development of skin cancer.

There are two current types of “sunscreens” although the terminology is debatable – sunscreens and sunblocks.

In general, sunscreens provide chemical protection by absorbing the UV rays as opposed to sunblocks, which deflect the sunrays. The newest and most effective sunscreens contain avobenzone, oxybenzone or octocrylene. They absorb both UVA and UVB effectively.

Sunblocks are “chemical-free” or “organic” sun protective agents. They generally contain zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide. The skin does not absorb these agents, as opposed to sunscreens, but remain on top of the skin. They work by deflecting the sunrays as opposed to absorbing them. They are effective against both UVA and UVB. Sunblocks are more likely to leave a white film on the skin.

While chemical sunscreens do not leave a white film on the skin, there is some early research to suggest that they may generate harmful free radicals in the skin. Although the exact implication of this continues to be studied, it is worth noting nonetheless.

No matter which type of sun protection you choose, it is most important that you make a choice, period, and apply one of these protective agents. It may be the smartest decision you make with regards to your long-term skin health and youthfulness. Stay protected!

Whether you are interested in prevention or skin rejuventation, we offer medical grade skin care products that can help you maintain healthy looking skin. We also provide treatments such as laser skin resurfacing and chemical peels which can be used to renew the skin by treating signs of aging or damaged skin. Proper prevention and treatments can significant reduce age spots, acne scars, wrinkles around the eyes, and other skin damage visible or not. To learn more about skin rejuvenation, contact my office to schedule a consultation.

Got ugly spider veins or telangiectasias on your face or other body sites? We have the laser technology to rid of these unwanted blemishes without the need for a scalpel! A simple procedure under local anesthetic in Dr. Howard’s office can rid of them forever! Call for an appointment to see if this is the right option for you!

Dr. Howard has recently trialed a new nonsurgical skin tightening device known as Pelleve. Pelleve delivers radiofrequency energy to the skin which heats up the dermis and leads to collagen remodelling and skin tightening. No anesthesia, no downtime, and no incisions! Dr. Howard and his staff continue to explore and evaluate new cosmetic surgery technology as a cutting edge plastic surgery practice, and are known for being leaders in cosmetic surgery technology.

The sun causes about 90% of the damage to our skin. This damage results in unnecessary and premature aging of the skin with sagging, wrinkles and uneven pigmentation. Ideally, we should be wearing sunscreen 365 days a year. Doing so will provided a lifetime of skin protection not only be slowing down the signs of aging, but against developing skin cancers. Be smart, wear your sunscreen like you would your makeup or your hair gel and apply daily!

Current data estimates that only 30% of adults wear daily sunscreen. This should be surprising since skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States. Wearing daily sunscreen with an SPF of 15-30 dramatically decreases your skin to harmful sun radiation while preserving a much more youthful skin appearance. Be smart, use sunscreen!

Tired of or embarrassed by the appearance of your aging hands? The Fraxel laser is a safe and extremely effective way of fading those age spots and tightening up the loose skin. Fast, simple, safe!

Fraxel is a trademarked name for one company’s fractionated laser technology.  Designed for resurfacing wrinkled, sun-damaged, and aging skin, Fraxel is the best known and longest existing of this type of laser in the USA.  Currently, there are three types of Fraxel laser treatments available, with each one offer increasing levels of intensity: Fraxel Re:fine, Fraxel Re:store, and Fraxel Re:pair.  Fraxel Re:pair is the newest but most intensive resurfacing and epidermal repair laser offered by Fraxel.  Long term studies are ongoing on this latest technology.

The new MedSpa in Roswell, Georgia, in the Greater Atlanta area is ramping up for the Fall season!  Offering an extensive menu covering all aspects of skin care and treatment, Dr. Howard’ MedSpa has expanded skin treatment options for men and women of all skin types and color.

                        We now offer laser hair removal, laser treatment of spider veins and rosacea, and laser treatment of skin pigmentation.  In addition to our Fraxel laser, we now can provide broad spectrum laser treatment options within the relaxing accommodations of our office.

            Call now and ask for our upcoming events or Fall Specials to fully evaluate your skin and learn about the many exciting treatment options available to you!

The new and more powerful Fraxel laser offers significant skin tightening and rejuvenation without the need for scars, incisions or sutures.  With a series of three to five (on average) treatments, you can see significant results and not have to worry about anesthesia fears.  With limited downtime and recovery, you can achieve your results without bruising, while wide awake.  Call to see if you are a candidate for this exciting advancement in eyelid rejuvenation!

Call our office to find out about our evolving menu of Summer Specials for your laser or skin care needs. Our Aesthetician offers a broad spectrum of skin and laser care specials throughout the summer. Laser hair removal, waxing, and microdermabrasion are just some of our specialties.