Cosmetic Dermatology & Self Esteem

Self-esteem is important when it comes to interaction with others—at social gatherings, in relationships, and in the workplace. There is no doubt that how we feel about our outward appearance has a direct correlation to our confidence. Although self-esteem comes from within, skin conditions can influence how we perceive ourselves. 

From teen years to adulthood, our skin goes through a multitude of changes that are influenced by different factors including diet, genetics, and overall lifestyle. It should come as no surprise that our skin is prone to damage from environmental elements and aging. Cosmetic dermatologists can help prevent and treat several conditions by assessing your specific skin’s needs.

“Whether it’s signs of aging, damage from sun exposure, or any type of inherited skin condition, those issues can be resolved by a quick visit to your local cosmetic dermatologist,” says Dr. Lindsay Clark, MD, specialist in regenerative and anti-aging medicine. “Making the conscious decision to take care of your skin helps you exude confidence and boost your self-esteem.”

Acne

The most common skin condition which, according to the American Association of Dermatology affects approximately 80-95% of people between the age of 14-25, is acne. Not only can acne be detrimental to one’s self esteem, but it can cause permanent scarring, leading to insecurity and psychology strife.

Fortunately, there are many treatments for acne that can not only reduce the presence of acne but help prevent scarring as well.

Chemical peels: Depending on the strength and type of acid used, this procedure removes the outermost layer of the skin and gives way to healthier and younger-looking skin. Your dermatologist may recommend a light, moderate, or deep peel based on your skin’s sensitivity.

Deeper peels will require more down time in the healing process and are effective for treating deeper problems such as scarring. Moderate and light peels remove the top superficial layer and do not take as long to heal.

Laser treatment: Although the price may be quite steep, lasers are extremely effective in treating multiple types of scarring by breaking up the old scar tissues and promoting the growth of new skin cells. Laser treatment is a non-invasive procedure that is able to treat each specific scar, from atrophic pitted scarring to hypertrophic raised scars. 

There are several types of laser treatments including ablative, non-ablative, and fractional. Ablative lasers, like CO2 lasers, use heat to remove the top layer (epidermis) of the skin, while fractional, or Fraxel lasers, cause micro injuries to stimulate collagen production underneath the epidermis, thereby reducing the healing time. 

Over-the-counter medication in the form of topical ointments can be incorporated into your daily skincare routine. Dermatologists recommend specific brands which have been tested and guaranteed to help mitigate skin conditions.

Hair Loss

Loss of hair on one’s head can be devastating to one’s self-esteem. Affecting men more often than women, over 80 million men and women suffer from premature hair loss. Conditions causing hair loss are commonly determined by one’s genetics. Treatment for hair loss depends on the cause, which varies with each person. 

The most common cause of hair loss, androgenetic alopecia, is a genetically inherited disorder that affects the conversion of androgens. It usually affects people between ages 40 and 45 but, in some cases, can start as early as their twenties. 

Another common culprit for hair loss is the hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a derivative of testosterone. DHT causes hair loss by attacking hair follicles, causing hair to fall out. Since men typically have more testosterone than women, baldness appears more frequently for men. 

Many over-the-counter medications are available, but a consultation with your dermatologist can guide you in the right direction. 

Evening Out Complexion

As our skin is exposed to sun damage—or ages through the years—wrinkles, fine lines and hyperpigmentation may cause skin to appear discolored or dull. Dermatologists are able to smooth out complexion through a variety of treatments. 

Dermal Fillers are an increasingly popular choice for cosmetic dermatologists and leave little to no downtime for recovery while addressing a myriad of skin concerns. Fillers are injected into the desired area of treatment. Popular fillers such as Juvaderm, Restylane, and Perlane are made from hyaluronic acid. This acid is a naturally occurring substance in our body which allows the skin to retain moisture. The injected area is safely absorbed, smoothing out the skin and giving it a plump, younger look.

Botox injections are also done at a dermatologist’s office and offer a quick solution to dealing with wrinkles around the eyes, forehead, frown lines and crow’s feet. Botox is a toxin that acts as a muscle relaxant, reducing the number of contractions that create wrinkles over time. 

Laser treatment is another option that is highly effective in evening out the complexion. The high-intensity heat from the machine stimulates regrowth of new cells, generating a fresh layer of skin. It is a versatile tool that can be used to treat any of the aforementioned conditions.

All skincare and reparative treatments should be performed by a licensed and specialized cosmetic dermatologist to ensure a safe, quality procedure. The collective benefits to skin health and a person’s self-esteem can ensure your investment is worthwhile. Understanding the benefits and risks of any procedure is the first step in determining what treatment is best for you. Your cosmetic dermatologist can properly advise you and lead you in your journey toward restored skin and a healthy bolster to your self-esteem.