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MiraDry: Permanently Reduce Excessive Underarm Sweating & Odour

Ildiko Juhasz • Oct 22, 2024
  • MiraDry is an FDA-approved, non-invasive, non-surgical treatment that permanently reduces excessive underarm sweat, odour, and hair.
  • The procedure uses thermal energy to target and permanently decrease sweat and odour glands, and hair follicles.
  • MiraDry is ideal for individuals with hyperhidrosis or those bothered by underarm sweat, odour and hair.
  • Many patients see significant, definitive results after one treatment, though some may need a second session, and results can vary based on the severity of the condition.
  • A free consultation with board-certified dermatologist Dr. Alanen or Director of Cosmetic Medicine and Laser Clinician Ildiko Juhasz at Derm.ca can determine if MiraDry is right for you.

What is MiraDry?

MiraDry is an FDA-approved, non-invasive, non-surgical, breakthrough procedure designed to permanently reduce excessive underarm sweating, also known as Primary Axillary Hyperhidrosis. In addition to targeting sweat, it effectively reduces odour and underarm hair, providing comprehensive care.


While treatments like antiperspirants and Botox only offer temporary relief, MiraDry permanently decreases sweat and odour glands, as well as hair follicles, providing permanent reduction of excessive sweat and odor, and unwanted hair.


Key Benefits:

  • FDA-approved, non-invasive; no cuts or sutures
  • Permanent reduction of excessive sweat, odour and underarm hair
  • Clinically proven permanent results for many patients after just one treatment

Permanent Effects

By safely targeting the sweat and odour glands, and hair follicles, MiraDry greatly improves both physical comfort and confidence, offering permanent results for hyperhidrosis sufferers.


Many patients experience significant reductions of excessive sweat, odour, and unwanted hair after one session. In some cases, a second treatment may be recommended, typically spaced at minimum 3 months apart, depending on the severity of the condition and response to treatment. However, some patients may not see the expected results.


Learn more about MiraDry here.

Understanding the Treatment Process

MiraDry offers a straightforward, efficient treatment process designed for patient comfort and optimal results.


How It Works

MiraDry works by using thermal energy to precisely target and destroy sweat and odour glands, and hair follicles in the underarm area. This non-surgical procedure offers permanent results with minimal downtime.

Step-by-step process:


  1. Numbing – Local anesthesia is applied to ensure maximum comfort.
  2. Marking – A temporary tattoo is used to mark the treatment area.
  3. Treating – The handheld device delivers thermal energy to eliminate sweat and odour glands, and hair follicles.


This makes MiraDry an effective treatment for excessive sweating, odour, and unwanted hair, with no significant impact on surrounding tissues.


Non-Surgical Procedure

One of the biggest advantages of MiraDry is that it’s a non-surgical treatment with little to no downtime involved.This means less risk, faster recovery, and no scarring. Most patients can return to regular activities shortly after treatment, including resuming exercise within a few days or up to a week.



Typically, the treatment lasts about 90 minutes. Local anesthesia is provided to ensure comfort, and most patients experience little or no discomfort.

Who are the Perfect Candidates?

MiraDry may not be the best fit for everyone. A free consultation with the expert team at Derm.ca can help guide you in making a well-informed decision.


Common Problem

Hyperhidrosis, caused by overactive sweat glands, affects about 5% of the global population, according to the International Hyperhidrosis Society. People with this condition can sweat four to five times more than what’s considered normal. In some cases, excessive sweating can also lead to osmidrosis, where sweat mixes with skin bacteria, causing an unpleasant body odour.


Is MiraDry Right for You?

If you’re someone who struggles with uncontrollable underarm sweat, or if you’re tired of dealing with persistent odour and hair, MiraDry could be a great fit. For those who have found regular antiperspirants ineffective, or are frustrated by the need for frequent Botox injections, MiraDry offers permanent results. While MiraDry offers long-term reduction for many, some patients may experience less significant results, especially if the sweat glands are located deeper in the tissue.


Consulting with a Dermatology Clinic About MiraDry

At Derm.ca, consultations are led by either board-certified dermatologist Dr. Alanen or Director of Cosmetic Medicine and Laser Clinician Ildiko Juhasz. During your free consultation, they will evaluate your condition and help determine whether MiraDry is the right treatment for you. You’ll also have the opportunity to ask questions and gain a clear understanding of the procedure and its potential results.



What to Expect After Treatment

After your MiraDry treatment, it's important to follow simple care instructions to ensure the best results. Most people notice benefits starting within 48 hours after treatment.


Dealing with Short-Term Swelling, Numbness, and Lumpiness

After treatment, you may experience temporary swelling, numbness, or bruising in the treated area. Patients may also experience lumpiness, which usually resolves within a few weeks. Following the personalized aftercare plan provided by Derm.ca, including ice pack application and gentle massages, can help alleviate any discomfort and promote quicker recovery. These symptoms typically subside within a few days to a week, and you should avoid strenuous activities for a few days, up to a week.


Post-Treatment Care Instructions

Here are some actions you should take:


  • Keep the treated area clean and dry to prevent infection.
  • Avoid shaving the underarms or using deodorant for at least a few days post-treatment.
  • Wear loose-fitting clothing to avoid irritation.
  • Reach out to Ildiko for any follow-up questions or concerns; you have full access to her support.




MiraDry Compared to Other Treatments

Understanding how MiraDry compares to other treatments can help you make an informed decision about managing excessive underarm sweating and odour.


Temporary Solutions vs. MiraDry's Permanent Results

While treatments like Botox and antiperspirants offer only temporary relief, MiraDry provides permanent results:


  • Botox: Requires ongoing treatments every 6-12 months to block sweat glands.
  • Antiperspirants: Offer daily temporary relief.
  • MiraDry: Permanently decreases sweat and odour glands, and hair follicles, often achieved in just one session (some may need a second).




Proven Benefits of MiraDry

Clinical Support and Efficacy

MiraDry’s effectiveness is supported by numerous scientific studies and clinical trials, demonstrating its ability to deliver significant and permanent reductions in excessive underarm sweat, odour, and unwanted hair. Despite its proven results, MiraDry is still relatively unknown among the general public and physicians, though it consistently delivers outstanding outcomes. As the only FDA-approved treatment for hyperhidrosis, MiraDry addresses the root cause of excessive sweating, offering a targeted and effective solution that provides permanent results.


The Effect on Mental Health and Self-Confidence

MiraDry not only reduces physical symptoms but also helps improve mental well-being, allowing patients to live more confidently.

Living with excessive underarm sweating can negatively impact one’s mental health, contributing to social anxiety and even depression. MiraDry delivers a sustained decrease in excessive underarm sweating, helping to improve both mental well-being and self-confidence.


At Derm.ca, we not only focus on delivering permanent relief from excessive sweating but also aim to help you regain confidence in both personal and professional settings. Our patients report a dramatic improvement in their quality of life, feeling more at ease without the worry of sweat stains or odour.


Expert Insights: Ildiko Juhasz on MiraDry

At Derm.ca, you’re in the expert hands of Ildiko Juhasz, CEO, Director of Cosmetic Medicine, and Laser Clinician. With years of experience in delivering hundreds of MiraDry treatments, Ildiko's personal commitment to patient care has led to consistently positive outcomes in reducing underarm sweat, odour and hair. While many patients achieve significant improvements, results may vary, making her expertise crucial for those seeking reliable results.


Derm.ca’s Leadership in MiraDry Treatments

Derm.ca has been at the forefront of offering MiraDry treatments since 2018, being the first clinic in western Canada to invest in this technology. With many successful treatments, Derm.ca remains dedicated to providing expert care and helping patients achieve the best possible results.



Typical Worries and Queries

It's understandable to have doubts and questions when thinking about MiraDry. In this section, we'll tackle some of the most frequently asked questions to help you make a well-informed choice.


Price and Insurance

The price of MiraDry varies based on the clinic and where it's located. Generally, it costs anywhere from $2,200 to $3,000 per treatment. While the price may seem steep, keep in mind the permanent advantages and the elimination of ongoing costs for antiperspirants or Botox injections.


Whether or not your insurance will cover MiraDry can be a bit of a gray area since it's often viewed as a cosmetic procedure. However, if you have severe hyperhidrosis and your dermatologist can confirm your diagnosis, your insurance might cover it. It's always a good idea to check with your insurance company to understand what your policy covers. Additionally, financing options are available at Derm.ca to help make the treatment more accessible.


Is it Safe and What are the Side Effects?

MiraDry is FDA-approved and deemed safe for use. Some of the most common side effects are temporary swelling, numbness, and bruising in the treated area. These side effects typically go away within a few days to a week.


There might be some rare instances where patients may feel numbness, lumpiness, or changes in their skin sensation for a longer period of time. It is very important to follow the aftercare instructions given by your dermatologist or clinician and report any unusual symptoms as soon as possible.


Permanent Results

The effectiveness of MiraDry is well-supported by clinical evidence, with most patients experiencing a substantial and permanent decrease in underarm sweat, odour, and hair. Both scientific studies and patient testimonials consistently highlight the treatment's ability to offer permanent results.


While MiraDry helps reduce excessive sweat, odour, and hair permanently, some patients may still experience sweating after treatment. The vast majority of patients enjoy significant and permanent reductions, often with only one treatment, making MiraDry a more definitive option compared to other solutions for many. However, some patients may not achieve their expected results even after one or two sessions.




Next Steps with MiraDry at Derm.ca

Your journey to reducing excessive sweat starts with a free consultation at Derm.ca, led by board-certified dermatologist Dr. Alanen or Ildiko Juhasz, Director of Cosmetic Medicine and Laser Clinician. During the consultation, they will assess your symptoms, review your medical history, and determine whether MiraDry is the right treatment for you. Derm.ca ensures a smooth experience from start to finish. You’ll have the opportunity to ask any questions you may have about the procedure, its benefits, and what to expect.


Ready to take control of your sweating? Book a free consultation today or call (403-457-1900) to learn more.




Common Questions

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions to help you understand what to expect from MiraDry.


What does the MiraDry procedure involve?

MiraDry uses thermal energy to heat and destroy sweat and odour glands, as well as hair follicles in the underarms. A local anesthetic is applied to ensure comfort, and a handheld device is used to treat the area. The treatment has no significant impact on surrounding tissues. The entire procedure typically takes about 90 minutes.


Is MiraDry Safe and What Are the Side Effects?

MiraDry is FDA-approved and has been proven safe through clinical studies. Common side effects include temporary swelling, numbness, and bruising, which typically resolve within a few days to a week. In rare cases, patients may experience longer-lasting numbness or lumpiness, but following Derm.ca’s personalized aftercare instructions, including the use of ice packs, can help ensure a smooth recovery. 


How much does MiraDry cost?

The cost of MiraDry typically ranges between $2,200 - $3,000 per treatment, depending on the clinic location. While the price may seem high, consider the permanent benefits and the elimination of ongoing expenses for Botox injections. If you have severe hyperhidrosis and your dermatologist confirms the diagnosis, you may be able to explore potential coverage through personal insurance. Financing options may be available to help make the treatment more accessible.


Is MiraDry an effective treatment for permanent reduction in underarm sweating?

MiraDry permanently decreases the number of sweat and odour glands, and hair follicles in your underarms. Once destroyed, these glands and follicles do not grow back. Most patients experience a significant and permanent reduction in sweat, odour, and hair after just one session, though some may require a second treatment depending on the severity of their condition.While the results are considered permanent, some patients may still experience minimal sweating after treatment.


Do I need more than one treatment?

Most patients achieve excellent results with one treatment, but some may need a second session, especially those with severe hyperhidrosis or deeper sweat glands. Your dermatologist or clinician will assess whether additional treatments are necessary after evaluating your progress. 


Will MiraDry cause compensatory sweating in other areas?

No, MiraDry does not cause compensatory sweating. It only targets sweat glands in the underarms, and eliminating these glands won’t make other parts of your body sweat more.


Does MiraDry also reduce underarm odour and hair?

Yes, MiraDry effectively reduces underarm odour by eliminating odour-causing glands along with sweat glands, providing relief from both excessive sweating and odour. Additionally, the procedure eliminates hair follicles, leading to a reduction of underarm hair, and many people do not require laser hair removal after MiraDry. This offers a triple solution for excessive sweat, odour, and unwanted hair, and works for all hair colors and skin types.


Will I still sweat after MiraDry?

The vast majority of patients experience a significant and permanent reduction in underarm sweating after MiraDry treatment. For most, any remaining sweat is minimal and comparable to normal levels. While it's uncommon for excessive sweating to return, a small number of patients may experience some residual sweating. In these cases, a follow-up treatment can often further reduce any remaining sweat. It's important to note that, as with any medical procedure, individual results may vary, and in rare instances, some patients may not respond as expected to the treatment, even after multiple sessions.


What is the downtime after MiraDry?

MiraDry has minimal downtime because the skin is not cut. You can usually return to your normal activities within a day or two, though exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided for a few days, up to a week. Swelling and bruising typically subside within a week. Be sure to follow your dermatologist’s or clinician's aftercare instructions to ensure the best recovery.


Take control of excessive sweating today!
Visit Derm.ca to learn more about MiraDry and schedule your free consultation, or call (403-457-1900).

By Ildiko Juhasz 22 Oct, 2024
MiraDry is an FDA-approved , non-invasive , non-surgical treatment that permanently reduces excessive underarm sweat, odour, and hair. The procedure uses thermal energy to target and permanently decrease sweat and odour glands , and hair follicles . MiraDry is ideal for individuals with hyperhidrosis or those bothered by underarm sweat, odour and hair. Many patients see significant, definitive results after one treatment , though some may need a second session, and results can vary based on the severity of the condition.  A free consultation with board-certified dermatologist Dr. Alanen or Director of Cosmetic Medicine and Laser Clinician Ildiko Juhasz at Derm.ca can determine if MiraDry is right for you.
08 Oct, 2024
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Key Takeaways Advanced facial skin imaging can uncover hidden skin problems that can't be seen with the naked eye. This technology can accurately diagnose a variety of skin conditions, such as pigmentation, acne, and vascular issues. Personalized treatment plans and skincare routines are tailored with the help of detailed analysis from skin imaging systems. Regular imaging sessions enable accurate tracking of overall skin health, treatment progress, and the effectiveness of personalized skincare routines. This comprehensive monitoring allows for timely adjustments to ensure optimal results. Early detection of potential skin problems helps prevent serious issues in the future. Comprehensive Skin Analysis with Advanced Technology Advanced facial skin imaging provides a transformative approach to skin health by allowing us to look beneath the surface of your skin and uncover hidden problems that can't be seen with the naked eye. This technology uses various types of light , including daylight, cross-polarized light, parallel-polarized light, Wood's light, and true UV light, to examine your skin from the epidermis all the way to the dermis. This comprehensive analysis allows us to: Detect early signs of developing conditions like acne, pigmentation issues, vascular abnormalities, and sun damage. Assess surface texture, pigmentation, vascularity, and wrinkles or lines in detail. Identify hidden problems like inflammation that can't be seen with the naked eye. Find early indications of sun damage, which can be treated before they turn into more severe conditions such as skin cancer. By providing an in-depth view of all your skin layers, we can get to the root of different skin issues and treat them effectively . This technology helps us see where your skin health starts and shows where it's going, providing more depth to your results. With this advanced approach, patients can not only look better but feel better too. Importance of a Proper Skincare Routine Alongside advanced imaging, maintaining a proper skincare routine is essential for optimal results. Based on our analysis, we can recommend personalized skincare regimens that enhance treatment outcomes and help maintain your skin's health. With this advanced approach and a tailored skincare routine, patients can not only look better but feel better too. The Benefits and Solutions Offered by Advanced Facial Skin Imaging Spotting Concealed Skin Problems A major advantage of advanced facial skin imaging is that it can spot concealed skin problems. These are issues that can't be seen with the naked eye, but can cause serious harm if not treated. For instance, early signs of sun damage might not be visible on the surface, but they can be spotted through imaging. This early detection allows for immediate treatment, preventing more severe conditions such as skin cancer. Acne: Identifies blocked pores and inflammation. Pigmentation: Pinpoints underlying pigmentation problems. Vascular Abnormalities: Uncovers vascular problems that aren't visible to the naked eye. Sun Damage: Spots early signs of damage from the sun. Precise Diagnosis of Various Conditions Precise diagnosis is key for effective treatment. Advanced facial skin imaging gives a detailed analysis of various skin conditions, allowing dermatologists to make more educated decisions. For example, conditions like rosacea, sun spots, and facial photoaging can be pinpoint diagnosed using this technology. This results in more targeted and effective treatments, improving the overall health and look of your skin. 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Comprehensive Treatment Options For concerns that extend beyond at-home care, we offer advanced treatments such as: Laser Treatments PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) Treatments Resurfacing & Acne Scar Treatments Other Non-Invasive Procedures By integrating Revoderm products with these advanced therapies, we ensure a comprehensive strategy that addresses both immediate concerns and long-term skin health. Our goal is to help you achieve and maintain a radiant complexion through personalized care and effective treatment solutions. Monitoring the Success of Your Treatment It's just as important to track the success of your treatment as it is to have the treatment itself. With advanced facial skin imaging, we can compare new images to baseline images to see how well the treatment is working. This gives us solid proof of how you're doing and helps us decide if we need to make any changes to your treatment plan. Seeing the progress you're making can also give you a confidence boost and motivate you to keep up with your skincare routine. Catching Problems in Their Infancy Catching skin problems in their early stages can have a huge impact on the health of your skin. By spotting issues early on, we can step in before they get any worse. For instance, catching sun damage early can stop it from turning into skin cancer. Alongside this early detection, our treatments can improve the quality of your skin, reducing wrinkles, sun spots, and redness, leading to skin rejuvenation and a more youthful appearance. You'll feel better once your skin is happier.  Why Choose Derm.ca and Revoderm Skincare? At Derm.ca, we offer a unique combination of cutting-edge technology, expert care, and our own dermatologist-developed skincare line, Revoderm. Here's why Derm.ca should be your go-to for comprehensive skincare: Expertise and Innovation Revoderm, developed and owned by Ildiko Juhasz and Dr. Alanen, represents the culmination of their extensive experience and knowledge in dermatology. This proprietary skincare line is designed to address a wide range of skin concerns, offering professional-grade products for at-home use. Meet Ildiko Juhasz, our Medical Laser Clinician Ildiko Juhasz brings a wealth of experience to Derm.ca. With rigorous training from Europe and Canada, she specializes in thorough skin assessments using state-of-the-art imaging technology. Her expertise in non-invasive and deeper treatments often yields visible results in just 1 to 3 sessions, depending on the condition. The before and after images from her treatments speak for themselves, showcasing significant improvements that patients experience. 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At Derm.ca, we offer a holistic approach to skincare: Comprehensive skin assessments and consultations Revoderm: Our dermatology-focused skincare line for at-home care Advanced treatments like laser therapy, PRP, and resurfacing Personalized treatment plans addressing a wide range of skin concerns Many patients see improvements after just 1-3 sessions of our advanced treatments, with before and after images showcasing significant results. For ongoing care, our Revoderm products can help maintain and enhance your skin health between clinic visits. Schedule Your Consultation Ready to transform your skin health? Book your advanced facial skin imaging session today. The process includes photo imaging, an individual consultation, treatment planning, and the treatments themselves. Ildiko, our highly sought-after Medical Laser Clinician, often books 2-3 months in advance. Schedule your session soon to ensure expert care and start your journey to healthier, more radiant skin. Commonly Asked Questions (FAQ) How fast can I see results from the Revoderm skincare routine? It depends on your specific skin condition. Typically, patients notice their skin feels smoother and brighter right away, with a noticeable texture difference. We take photos to track progress, with follow-ups at one month and three months. These images help show the consistency of results over time. What Skin Issues Can Advanced Facial Skin Imaging Identify? Advanced facial skin imaging is capable of identifying a variety of skin issues, such as acne, hyperpigmentation, melasma, rosacea, vascular abnormalities, and early indications of sun damage. It offers an in-depth examination of your skin, which enables precise diagnosis and successful treatment. Does the Imaging Process Hurt? Not at all, the imaging process is entirely pain-free. It involves capturing multiple images of your face under different lighting conditions. The process is fast and comfortable. How Fast Can I See Results from Treatment? You can typically see results from your treatment after the first session. However, the number of sessions required will depend on your specific skin concerns and goals. Many patients notice improvements in their skin's appearance and texture within just a few treatments, allowing for a tailored approach to achieve optimal results. Do I Need to Take Packages of 5-6 Sessions? No, we don't require you to purchase packages. Treatments are done individually, depending on what you need and how much improvement you're seeking. Do I Need to Come Every Month? No, once you achieve the results you're looking for, we can make a plan based on the photos. Some patients only need to come once a year. It doesn't need to be done every month. Will I Need Time Off from Work? Most of our treatments are non-invasive, allowing you to return to work immediately after the session. How Much Time Does a Typical Imaging Session Require? 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By grasping the root causes of these problems, we can devise specific anti-aging treatments to help you keep your skin youthful and healthy. While advanced technology plays a crucial role in deeper skin analysis, it is our extensive experience and expertise that truly drive remarkable results. We leverage this technology to create personalized treatment plans and skincare routines, ensuring that our patients often see noticeable improvements either immediately after a few treatment sessions or within a few months of consistent skincare. At Derm.ca, we are committed to not only enhancing your skin's appearance but also to providing you with the confidence that comes from expert care tailored specifically to your needs.
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Key Takeaways Mole mapping is a vital diagnostic tool used to monitor moles for signs of skin cancer. It involves taking detailed photos of your moles and monitoring them over time to detect early signs of skin cancer, especially malignant melanoma, the most common deadly skin cancer. Routine mole mapping reduces the number of biopsies and therefore biopsy scars. Recognizing the warning signs of suspicious moles can be life-saving. The most common anatomic location to develop melanoma is on the back; unfortunately, it is very difficult to monitor your own back – this is a huge benefit of mole mapping. Regular self-checks and professional screenings by a board certified dermatologist such as Dr. Alanen are essential for detecting skin changes early. Mole mapping is only a tool; it does not replace the expertise that is achieved by board certification in dermatology. Look for the designation “Fellow or the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (FRCPC)”. This is the only officially accepted designation of expertise in Canada. Technological advancements have made mole mapping more accurate and widely available than ever before. Understanding your skin and taking proactive steps to monitor and protect it are key to preventing skin cancer. Routine mole mapping, combined with regular skin checks, sun smart behaviours (e.g. minimizing sun exposure, regular use of sunscreen , UV-filtering clothing, hats etc.), are your best defense against skin cancer. The Importance of Mole Mapping: “Mole Patrol” Consider your skin as a map; it's filled with landmarks and distinctive spots. This is how mole mapping works. This technology accurately tracks moles and other spots. Dr Alanen, Board Certified Dermatologist, often says “…..Every melanoma cancer looks different than every other melanoma cancer – the only thing they all have in common is the tendency to change over time”. The mapping technology, by virtue of its extreme accuracy, can detect subtle change before the human eye can. This helps Dr. Alanen to detect potentially ominous lesions at the earliest possible stage. Dr Alanen goes on to say that “….The flip side to this is that slightly abnormal but unchanging / stable lesions do not need to be removed. Hence fewer biopsy scars”. At Derm.ca , we offer highly-rated mole mapping services and integrate them with Revoderm ’s dermatologist-developed skin care products for comprehensive care. Getting to Know Skin Cancer Skin cancer is not just a single disease – there are many different subtypes but the most common are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and malignant melanoma. All skin cancers appear very subtle at first (but this is when cures are easiest and least invasive). That's why it's critical to know your skin, from top to bottom. First and foremost, skin cancer doesn't discriminate. Regardless of your skin color or how much you love or hate the sun, you can get skin cancer. It's the most common cancer of humans, but it's also one of the most preventable. Prevention begins with paying attention to your skin; mole mapping helps you take this to the next level. Saving Lives Through Early Detection Early detection can make a huge difference when it comes to skin cancer. Most skin cancers, including the dangerous melanoma, can often be cured with simple treatments if they are found early. This is why mole mapping is so important – it's an effective method to detect changes in the skin before they turn into serious issues. Demystifying Mole Mapping What Exactly Is Mole Mapping? Mole mapping involves taking detailed photos of your moles, including those in hard-to-reach areas, and monitoring them over time. This helps detect early signs of skin cancer, providing peace of mind. Please be aware that not all changes are serious; as Dr Alanen says “….all melanomas change over time but not all things that change are melanomas. Mole mapping is a very useful tool, but this does not replace the expertise that comes from formal training and board certification in dermatology and decades of professional experience”. It’s particularly important for those with many moles or a family history of skin cancer. By comparing detailed images over time, dermatologists can predict potential skin cancers without immediate biopsies, reducing unnecessary procedures and scarring. Brief Overview of the Mole Mapping Procedure While the primary focus should be on the benefits and importance of mole mapping, it's helpful to know what the procedure involves: Initial Consultation During your first visit, a dermatologist will conduct a comprehensive skin examination to assess your moles and identify any areas of concern. Photographic Documentation High-resolution images of your moles are taken, including those in hard-to-reach areas like between the toes. This detailed photographic documentation serves as a baseline for future comparisons. Regular Monitoring The images are reviewed and compared over time to detect any changes or abnormalities in your moles. This allows for early detection of potential skin cancers. Follow-Up Appointments Regular follow-up appointments are scheduled to ensure any changes in your moles are promptly identified and addressed. Skin Protection Strategies Sunscreen is your skin's best friend when it comes to protection. It acts like a barrier, blocking the harmful rays of the sun that can cause skin cancer. Even sunscreens with SPF 15 can provide essential protection when formulated with high-quality ingredients like 20% zinc oxide, Venuceane™ antioxidants and Vitamin C. A higher SPF doesn't always mean significantly more protection and can sometimes give a false sense of security. It's crucial to reapply sunscreen every two hours and apply it as the last step in your skincare routine, before makeup, and 15 minutes before sun exposure. Apply sunscreen every day, even if it's cloudy or in winter time. It's a small step that can have a big impact. In addition to sunscreen, wear hats, sunglasses, and seek shade during peak sun hours. Avoid tanning beds; use self-tanners for a safer glow. How to Do a Self-Check Monthly, use a mirror to check your entire body for new moles or changes. Look for moles that are asymmetrical, have irregular borders, different colors, or have changed over time. Follow the ABCDEs of mole checks. The ABCDEs are guidelines, not rules. They are NOT a replacement for a visit to the dermatologist. Many lesions violate ABCDE and are innocent and many serious lesions do not violate these rules. Information Source: Canadian Skin Cancer Foundation When to Contact a Specialist You should be aware that most skin cancers that are found are a complete surprise to the patient – in the majority of instances, the bad moles are NOT those that the patient finds, it is the ones that are found on a formal skin check. If you have a history of sunburns, suntans, fair skin, freckles, blue or green eyes, blonde or red hair, you are at increased risk of developing skin cancer. You should have a baseline skin check by a board-certified dermatologist. When you notice an unusual or changing spot, it's time to see a dermatologist, a doctor who specializes in skin. They can tell if a mole is harmless or if it needs to be monitored. It's always better to be safe than sorry, so get it checked. Progress in Skin Care Technology Keeping an eye on your skin health is now simpler with the help of technology. Apps and high-resolution imaging now allow you to monitor your skin changes over time. This means you can identify any worrying changes faster than ever before. Modern Mole Mapping Tools There are ever-evolving technologies for mole mapping . These tools use sophisticated algorithms to monitor changes. The mole mapping system at Derm.ca is not augmented by AI technology (which is not legally cleared in Canada). What to Do Next Now that you know more about skin cancer, it's time to take proactive steps to protect your health. Begin by regularly checking your skin and consider scheduling an appointment for professional mole mapping. Acting early, rather than waiting until you see a suspicious mole, is key to staying healthy. Where Can You Find Reliable Information? For more information on skin cancer and mole mapping, visit trustworthy resources such as the Canadian Dermatology Association (CDA) or the Canadian Skin Cancer Foundation . These sites offer comprehensive guides, prevention tips, and the latest research to keep you informed and protected. Caution with Mole Tracking Apps While mole tracking apps and online tools are becoming more popular and precise, use them with caution. These apps can vary in accuracy and might give false alarms or underestimate ominous lesions, causing unnecessary anxiety or delayed consultations. Always prioritize professional oversight for accurate skin health monitoring. Expert advice from healthcare professionals ensures proper diagnosis and treatment. Comprehensive Skin Care All Under One Roof at Derm.ca At Derm.ca, we offer the entire range of skin care services - all in one beautiful place. During cosmetic laser treatments, if something suspicious is noticed, Ildikó Juhasz, our CEO, Laser Treatment Specialist, and Revoderm Innovator, can refer you immediately to Dr. Ken Alanen, our Board Certified Dermatologist & Skin Cancer Surgery expert. Laser treatments enhance your skin and can help reduce cancer risk by removing precancerous lesions. No referrals are needed in this scenario. Board Certified Dermatologist Dr. Alanen provides seamless care, from skin checks to biopsies and surgeries, and follow-up surveillance, ensuring you receive prompt, seamless and thorough attention. This clinic practice model represents the ultimate approach to skin cancer diagnosis, treatment and prevention. It mirrors the approach taken by the leading skin cancer subspecialty clinics in North America, Europe and Australia and it reflects 15+ years of continuous quality improvement by Dr Alanen and Ildikό Juhasz. In addition to mole mapping, we also use advanced facial skin analysis technology. This cutting-edge system gives detailed insights into the health of your facial skin, helping to spot potential issues early. This technology works alongside our mole mapping services, offering a complete view of your skin's condition and allowing for more precise and personalized treatment plans. In a future blog post, we will dive deeper into how this technology can further enhance your skin care routine. Costs and Coverage Information For skin cancer checks and mole mapping, the cost is $290 per session. How to Schedule a Mole Mapping Appointment Scheduling a mole mapping appointment at Derm.ca is simple and straightforward. During your appointment, we will conduct a thorough skin examination and mole mapping session to ensure your skin health is meticulously monitored. Here’s how you can set it up: Visit Our Website Head over to our Derm.ca appointment page to easily book your mole mapping session online. Call Us Directly Give us a call at (403) 457-1900. Our friendly team is ready to help you schedule your appointment and answer any questions you might have. After your skin check and/or mole mapping session, you will be included in our system for follow-up and monitoring. Please note that if the service is not through a referral, it is specifically designed to address skin cancer concerns and is not intended for other conditions such as eczema for example. At Derm.ca , we are committed to providing top-quality care and ensuring the best outcomes for our patients. Common Questions and Answers If you're left with lingering questions, that's a good thing – questions lead to answers. Here are responses to some of the most common questions about skin cancer and mole mapping. What is skin cancer and why should we be concerned? Skin cancer is a condition where skin cells grow uncontrollably. It's concerning because if not detected early, it can spread to other parts of the body and become harder to treat. Early detection usually leads to effective treatment. How frequently should I have my skin examined? Check your skin once a month and schedule a yearly appointment with a dermatologist. If you're at higher risk due to factors like fair skin, many moles, freckles, or a family history of skin cancer, you may need more frequent check-ups. Typically, mole mapping is recommended twice a year at first, then annually if you are not at high risk. What is mole mapping and how does it work? Mole mapping involves taking detailed images of your moles and tracking them over time for any changes. This helps in early detection of potential skin cancers. How accurate is mole mapping? Mole mapping is highly accurate and effective for detecting skin cancer, particularly melanoma. However, it should complement, not replace, regular skin exams by a healthcare provider. Is mole mapping safe and painful? Yes, mole mapping is a safe, non-invasive, and painless procedure. It involves taking high-resolution images of your skin and moles. Can mole mapping be used on all skin types? Yes, mole mapping works on all skin types and tones, providing accurate monitoring for everyone. Is mole mapping covered by insurance? Coverage for mole mapping varies by insurance plan. Check with your provider to determine your coverage. Note that visual skin checks are covered by the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) with a referral, and all biopsies and treatments are covered by the health plan. Can mole mapping be used on children? Yes, mole mapping can be used for children. While skin cancer is rare in children, monitoring moles is important for those with many moles, significant sun exposure, or a family history of skin cancer. Early detection through regular check-ups with a dermatologist can help catch potential issues early. How long does a mole mapping appointment take? A mole mapping appointment typically takes about 45 minutes, including image capture and review. How much does mole mapping cost? To expedite skin cancer checks without the need for a referral, the cost ranges from $250 to $290, including advanced technology like mole mapping. For accurate pricing information, it’s best to contact the clinic directly. How should you prepare for a mole mapping appointment? Before your appointment, remove all make-up, moisturizers, tanning products, sunscreen, and nail polish. If you have a full-body tan, allow about three weeks for it to fade. Wear loose, comfortable clothing for easy access to your skin. Can mole mapping detect all types of skin cancer? Mole mapping is highly effective at detecting melanoma but may not catch other types of skin cancer like basal cell carcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma as easily. Regular skin checks are essential. Don't forget, skin care is a lifetime obligation. It involves making intelligent decisions such as applying sunscreen and getting routine mole examinations. So, keep a close watch on your skin – it might just save your life.
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