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MEDICAL
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ACTINIC KERATOSES
Derm.ca : Recognized Skin Cancer Surgery Expertise
Actinic Keratoses
Man with actinic Actinic Keratoses (AK) are potential precancerous skin lesions. They occur as a consequence of cumulative low-grade sun exposure over many years.
Actinic Keratoses form not just from intentional suntanning but from every day casual sunshine such as walking to and from your car, a brief stroll with your dog, a walk with friends through the neighborhood, and even exposure to the sun through the windows in your car.
Actinic Keratoses can occur anywhere on the body, however, they are most commonly found on the face, neck, forearms, backs of the hand, any other sun-exposed parts of the body.
AKs look like a patch of dry skin, and treatment of AKs is necessary as they commonly transform into squamous cell carcinoma.
The treatment options are varied but include liquid nitrogen, surgical excision, topical medications (5-fluorouracil, imiquimod) as well as medium-deep skin peels using trichloroacetic acid, and photodynamic therapy.
If you think you may have Actinic Keratoses, we strongly recommend that you schedule an appointment with Dr. Alanen immediately.
keratoses
Actinic Keratoses
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Mon: Cosmetic Appointments 8:30am – 7:00pm
Sat: Appointment Only (Cosmetic)
Sun: CLOSED
Holidays: CLOSED
403-457-1900 (Medical)
News
05 Apr, 2024
Discover the science behind Botox injections and how they can help reduce wrinkles and fine lines. Learn about the procedure, its benefits, and why it's a popular choice for anti-aging treatments.
05 Feb, 2024
Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is a very common form of skin cancer, and certain factors increase the risk of developing this condition. Primarily, BCC develops in individuals with more exposure to UV radiation from the sun or tanning beds; for this reason, it is far more common in those who spend a significant amount of time outside. Fair-skinned individuals, especially those with lighter eyes and/or naturally light hair, are also considered high risk due to their lower threshold for UV damage over time. Additionally, older adults face an increased chance of developing BCC due to a lifetime of possibly inadequate protection from the sun's rays. To think proactively about your health, it can be beneficial to weigh these risk factors carefully and use protective measures when engaging in outdoor activities. Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is one of the most common types of skin cancer. While it is relatively easy to treat, it is important to know the risk factors associated with developing this condition. Knowing these risk factors can help you identify warning signs early, and receive prompt treatment if necessary. For starters, prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sources such as the sun and tanning beds significantly increases your risk for BCC. UV radiation weakens your skin’s protective layers, which can lead to abnormal growths that develop into tumours when left unchecked. The dangers of UV radiation are particularly pronounced in those with fair complexions—people with lighter skin tones have a much higher likelihood of developing basal cell carcinoma than those with darker tones do. People who have previously been diagnosed with BCC are also at an increased risk of developing the condition again due to weakened skin cells caused by damage from previous treatments like radiation or surgery. Additionally, having a weakened immune system due to conditions like HIV/AIDS can increase an individual’s susceptibility to BCC because reduced immunity leaves their skin vulnerable to UV damage and other environmental factors that can accelerate the development of tumours. Genetic causes also play a role in increasing an individual’s chance of developing BCC; people with certain genetic syndromes or family histories may be more likely to develop this form of cancer compared to others without similar backgrounds. In particular, individuals with Gorlin Syndrome—an inherited genetic disorder that leads to mucocutaneous lesions—have a significantly heightened risk of developing BCC over time. Finally, certain medical treatments can increase your likelihood of developing BCC as well. Procedures such as organ transplantation and chemotherapy that require long-term immunosuppressive drugs weaken the immune system, which makes them more susceptible to UV radiation-induced tumour growths over time. By understanding the various risk factors associated with basal cell carcinoma development, you can take steps to protect yourself against this type of skin cancer. Wear sunscreen liberally and avoid sunbathing whenever possible; opt instead for shady spots when spending time outdoors in order to minimize UV exposure. Be aware of any new growths on your body that may indicate tumour formation and seek medical advice if any potential symptoms become concerning. With proper precautions and vigilance, you can greatly reduce your chances of developing this condition over time! Basal cell carcinoma is the most common form of skin cancer, and while anyone can develop it, there are certain factors which increase one’s risk. These include light-coloured eyes or hair, fair skin that burns or freckles easily, a history of sunburns or tanning bed use, older age, spending large amounts of time outdoors and in the sun, and a weakened immune system. Understanding these risks may help in making decisions such as applying sunscreen on a regular basis and avoiding tanning beds. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider if any suspicious spots develop on your skin that doesn’t heal on their own for further assessment. Basal Cell Carcinoma is a serious condition, and understanding its risk factors can help you stay ahead of the disease. Derm .ca offers answers to all your questions and a team of experts to guide you through the process. Reach out today to learn more about high-risk factors for developing Basal Cell Carcinoma!
04 Jan, 2024
Laser tattoo removal is a growing trend that many people are choosing as an alternative to other more permanent solutions. The procedure involves using a high-powered laser to break up the ink particles in the skin, creating tiny fragments that can be removed with minimal damage to surrounding skin tissue. It’s important to take the necessary steps to prepare for your laser tattoo removal session so it goes as smoothly and safely as possible. Pre-Treatment Consultation Before you can begin your treatment, you should schedule a pre-treatment consultation with your doctor or dermatologist. During this appointment, your dermatologist will review your medical history and examine the tattoo site to determine what treatments will be best suited for you. He or she may also recommend doing a patch test beforehand—especially if you have darker skin tones or tattoos with multiple colours—to ensure that the laser won't cause any unexpected reactions on the skin. Stop Taking Certain Medications If you take certain types of medication, it may be recommended that you stop taking them at least two weeks before your treatment session. This includes vitamin supplements containing St. John’s Wort, Advil (ibuprofen) and Aspirin (aspirin). Additionally, blood thinners like Coumadin and Plavix increase bleeding risk during treatment and should not be taken prior to your session. Shave the Tattooed Area It is important that the area where your tattoo is located is hairless for the duration of your laser appointment for better accuracy and visibility when performing the procedure. Avoid waxing or plucking hairs from this area—rather shave them off several days before your session begins for optimal outcomes. Protect Your Skin From Sunlight Exposure to sunlight can significantly reduce the effectiveness of laser tattoo removal treatments because UV rays can alter tattoo ink’s pigment structure, making it harder for lasers to target them precisely during sessions. In order to protect yourself from sun damage before each treatment session, wear broad spectrum SPF 30 sunscreen whenever going out into direct sunlight—even when wearing clothing with long sleeves or pants--for at least 2 weeks leading up to each appointment. Avoid Dehydration Hydrated skin helps facilitate healing after each laser treatment session and makes it easier for new cells to grow back quickly without causing scabbing or scarring of any kind. With this in mind, make sure that you drink plenty of water throughout the day leading up to each appointment so your skin stays properly hydrated and prepared for treatments. By following these simple steps carefully along with consulting with a certified medical professional ahead of time, patients undergoing laser tattoo removal can ensure improved outcomes while minimizing risks associated with any potential injuries they may experience as well as other complications during their journey towards full body transformation goals! If you're interested in learning more about how laser tattoo removal works or are considering scheduling an appointment contact Derm.ca today!
Mon: Cosmetic Appointments 8:00am – 4:45pm
Sat: Appointment Only (Cosmetic)
Sun: CLOSED
Holidays: CLOSED
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