WestDerm

kin cancer is a concern everyone should share, regardless of skin type, texture, or tone. However, certain skin types might be especially susceptible to skin cancer development, and it would be helpful to assess risk on an individual basis. The Fitzpatrick skin typing test is a scale most dermatologists at least reference when determining a patient’s skin cancer risk. But is it accurate, and should we use it ourselves? 

In honor of St. Patrick’s Day, we’ll take a closer look at the dermatological tool with a name from the Emerald Isle. 

What Is the Fitzpatrick Skin Type Scale? 

The Fitzpatrick phototype test is a system developed by Dr. Thomas Fitzpatrick in the early 1970s to measure a patient’s sensitivity to ultraviolet light treatment for skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema. Since its development, it has been used to predict a person’s vulnerability to skin cancer based on skin pigmentation and eye color. 

According to the scale, the likelihood of developing skin cancer decreases as skin tone deepens. So, a person with extremely fair skin that is incapable of tanning is at the highest risk for skin cancer, while a person with extremely deep skin tones is at the lowest risk. 

The system also involves taking a quiz that is meant to determine photosensitivity by reporting your skin’s response to sun exposure. The resulting score – from zero to over 40, depending upon the number of questions — predicts your skin cancer risk. The lower your score, the higher your risk, according to the scale. 

There are six skin tones depicted on the Fitzpatrick scale: 

• Type 1 (0-6 score): This is the palest category of skin tones. This type never tans, only burns. Blue eyes; blonde or red hair. 
• Type 2 (7-13 score): This is also a pale skin tone, but it is capable of tanning lightly, though it will burn easily. Blue, green, or hazel eyes; light brown, blonde, or red hair. 
• Type 3 (14-20 score): Fair skin tone that mainly tans and sometimes burns. Any eye or hair color can be a type 3.   
• Type 4 (21-27 score): Naturally olive skin tone that tans easily and deeply and only burns after heavy direct sun exposure. Hair is brown or black; eyes are brown. 
• Type 5 (28-34 score): Brown skin tone that never burns and tans very easily. Hair is brown or black; eyes are dark brown. 
• Type 6 (35+ score): Deepest brown-to-black skin tone. Hair is black; eyes black or dark brown. 

(Fun fact – emojis featuring different skin tones were modeled after the pictorial skin tone representations in the Fitzpatrick scale!) 

How Accurate Is the Fitzpatrick Skin Type Scale? 

The Fitzpatrick skin test was developed by a dermatologist to be used by dermatologists. People undergoing laser treatments for skin disorders or cosmetic purposes must be assessed for UV sensitivity so that the treatment can be administered safely and effectively. However, anyone can take a Fitzpatrick skin test online and draw accurate or less-than-accurate conclusions. 

For people with paler skin tones – type 3 or higher – the Fitzpatrick scale can be a good indicator of photosensitivity and skin cancer risk, but mainly because it is simply better to err on the side of caution when it comes to skin cancer protection. If you have pale skin, the Fitzpatrick test results will likely encourage you to be proactive about skin checks and sunscreen. 

However, the results are a bit more complex for people with darker skin tones. While the scale accounts for multiple eye and hair colors for people with type 3 skin, the test presupposes blue/green eyes for palest skin and brown hair and eyes for anyone with deeper skin tones, which can complicate self-reporting. If you have brown eyes and extremely pale skin, what is your risk? 

Additionally, not everyone with dark skin recognizes sunburn or sunburn potential because redness and color changes might not be noticeable. This deficiency in the test can have serious medical consequences for people with darker skin, many of whom erroneously believe that they are naturally not at risk for skin cancer. 

While contemporary research is increasingly concerned about the limitations of the Fitzpatrick scale for skin cancer risk self-assessment, there are clinical applications where the scale might not be ideal. 

A survey conducted in 2019 by researchers from the Howard University College of Medicine found that 31% of 140 practicing board-certified dermatologists and dermatology trainees used the Fitzpatrick test as a medium to describe their patients’ ethnicity or race, not just skin tone. While there are broad interrelationships between skin color and race or ethnicity, nuances can easily be ignored, leading to suboptimal clinical outcomes. 

How Can I Learn My Risk for Skin Cancer? 

While the Fitzpatrick skin test might not be entirely adequate to determine everyone’s skin cancer risk, it is still worth taking if you have concerns about your skin health. However, you should follow up on your self-assessment by scheduling an appointment with a board-certified dermatologist. 

Regardless of your skin tone, race, ethnicity, history of sunburns, or age, the best way to learn your risk for skin cancer is to have a dermatologist perform a skin check. This procedure will immediately alert you to any abnormalities so that you can address them early, when the chances of complete recovery are highest. 

To find a dermatologist near you, please visit our information page today! 

Most of us wouldn’t forget to put on clothes before leaving the house. (Hopefully!)

In addition to being stylish and preserving our modesty, clothing acts as an environmental protectant against a variety of elements, including the sun. However, while we’re pretty vigilant about at least putting on pants and a shirt before leaving the house (at least in winter!), not all of us reliably apply sun protection to the areas of our bodies that remain uncovered.

Skin cancer is the most prevalent type of cancer in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The American Cancer Society reports that approximately 5.4 million cases of basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma are diagnosed every year. Between 78,000 and 100,000 cases of melanoma are diagnosed yearly.

Sun protection can be the difference between clear, healthy skin and premature aging, dark spots, and a skin cancer diagnosis. If you forget to apply sunscreen in the mornings, here are a few tips that can help make it an automatic part of your daily routine.

Keep a bottle of sunscreen in the shower.

Sounds crazy, right? But how often do you remember to apply sunscreen to your ears and scalp?

Have a bottle of sunscreen in your shower caddy to remind you to put sunscreen on any exposed body parts that you don’t typically think about during the day. After your shower, blot yourself dry with a towel, then massage an even layer of sunscreen over the parts of your body that aren’t covered by clothes. These areas might include the following:

• Ears
• Scalp
• Back of your neck
• Forearms
• Legs and feet

While you might not require extra sun protection on your upper or lower body during winter, this is still a good routine to follow in the summer months when more skin is exposed to the elements. Apply sunscreen generously to towel-dried skin and allow it to absorb as you complete the rest of your morning ritual.

Make sure your clothing is UPF-rated.

One of the most effective guards against sun damage is clothing with an ultraviolet protection factor (UPF). While you might think your regular clothes offer a sufficient shield against the sun’s burning rays, many seemingly heavy garments aren’t woven tightly enough to filter out ultraviolet energy. Clothing with a UPF label is specifically designed to protect the skin from the sun while still being breathable.

Carry lip protection with SPF.

During the winter, a good lip balm is essential to keeping your lips moist, comfortable, and healthy. A good SPF lip balm also protects against lip damage that causes cancer.

Skin cancer of the lips is the most common form of oral cancer. Although the sunscreen you apply to your face should also include your lips, sunscreen wears off of the mouth area because we eat and drink throughout the day. Always reapply your lip balm after eating, drinking, or whenever your lips feel a little dry. Make sure to have a container of your favorite lip balm in your car, your desk at work, your purse, or your pocket at all times. (You can even buy keychains designed to hold your lip balm!)

Find a good sunscreen multitasker.

Even if you are fairly vigilant about skincare, sometimes it’s hard to know whether your sun protection is working towards your other skincare goals. The right sunscreen will offer more than just sun protection – there should be additional skin-nourishing ingredients, too. Here are a few products that support overall healthy and beautiful skin, regardless of skin type.

Skin Pigment Protection: IPL Bundle Pigment Correcting Serum & Sunscreen offers powerful sun protection and a healthy dose of pigment-correcting ingredients that target dark spots and other skin discoloration.

Antioxidant Support: WestDerm Water Resistant Liquid Mineral SPF 50+ (Sheer Mineral Sunscreen) is a great tool for boosting your skin’s natural restorative response. Full of green tea polyphenols, this sunscreen facilitates cell regeneration and has been shown to act as a guard against damaging cell inflammation.

Oil Control: For those with oily skin, sunscreen can feel like an added layer of pore-clogging, dulling grease. Not so with WestDerm Mattifying Mineral Tinted SPF 30 (Tinted Physical Sunscreen)! This lightweight product is an excellent option for people with overactive oil glands, featuring effective oil control and a multi-shade tint that lets you streamline your skincare routine while still retaining a fresh, smooth, and even glow.

Sensitive Skin Support: EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 is an excellent option for managing conditions like rosacea and acne. This gentle formula is fragrance-free and lightweight, helping to soothe and protect inflammation-prone, sensitive skin.

Having periodic skin checks is also essential to keeping your skin healthy and protected. To schedule an appointment with a board-certified dermatologist, please visit our information page to find a clinic near you.

Here’s a full suite of cosmetic services that will have you loving your skin this Valentine’s Day! 

Why settle for a box of chocolates when you can have healthy and smooth skin? Show your complexion a little love with these fantastic skin-beautifying solutions! 

In-Office Treatments 

Whether you have a date with your honey or just want to give yourself the gift of a beauty boost this Valentine’s Day, these services and treatments will have you looking as radiant as a bouquet of roses! 

Struggling with acne? Tired of painful and rough ingrown hairs? Want to do something about the chicken skin on your knees and elbows? Our state-of-the-art facilities offer comprehensive treatments for a wide variety of skin issues.  

Beautiful skin is healthy skin. If you have concerns about the texture or appearance of your skin, schedule an appointment with our board-certified dermatologists for a full consultation on your skin health. 

Botox 

Did you know that St. Valentine is said to be a patron saint of young people? This year, celebrate him by preserving your youthful appearance!  

Botox is a widely used anti-wrinkle injection designed to treat dynamic wrinkles (lines and creases that develop after years of muscle activity, like smile lines or frown lines). It works by blocking the nerve signals to the muscles, which inhibits the contractions that cause wrinkles to deepen and become visible. Because the procedure effectively prevents involuntary facial tension, the result is a smoother, more relaxed, and youthful appearance. 

One Botox appointment typically lasts less than one hour, with no downtime. The full effects of the procedure are generally noticeable within one week. Touch-up treatments are recommended approximately every six months. 

This treatment freshens and rejuvenates while allowing your natural radiance to shine through. 

Dermal Fillers 

Dermal fillers are volumizing injections that reduce the appearance of lines and add fullness to the mouth and cheeks, depending upon the treatment you select. The results are natural-looking, immediate, and long-lasting. 

Dermal fillers are extremely effective treatments for the following issues: 

• Mild skin laxity 
• Lack of fullness in the lips, cheeks, jaws, or under-eye areas 
• Pitted acne scarring 
• Moderate facial creases or folds 

Dermal filler treatment is fast, comfortable, minimally invasive, and requires no downtime. Results can last as long as several years, depending on the type of filler used. 

IPL Photofacial 

Give yourself the gift of a brighter, smoother, more even complexion with an Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) photofacial! Say goodbye to lingering acne scars, discoloration, and dullness with this non-invasive, highly effective treatment. 

IPL photofacials are excellent options for people who wish to correct a wide variety of skin issues. This treatment stimulates collagen production and leverages the healing powers of the body to facilitate cell regeneration. This technology releases multiple pulsed light wavelengths that penetrate deep into the skin without damaging the external layer. 

IPL photofacials correct a wide range of skin conditions, including the following: 

• Acne and acne scars 
• Enlarged pores 
• Spider veins 
• Fine lines and wrinkles 
• Hyperpigmentation 

Not only are IPL photofacials great for the face – they can be used anywhere on the body! This includes the following areas: 

• Arms 
• Back 
• Chest 
• Hands  
• Shoulders 
• Neck 

IPL photofacial treatments do not require downtime, and results are apparent within one or two days post-procedure.  

Medical-Grade Skin Care 

We also offer a fantastic suite of products that will give your skin lots of Valentine’s Day luster! Here are a few of our favorites: 

Alastin Daily Beauty Regimen 

This kit is definitely the gift that keeps on giving! This comprehensive set of some of Alastin’s most popular products gives skin a potent dose of powerful elastin and collagen-boosting ingredients. From the antioxidant-rich Gentle Cleanser to the HydraTint Pro Mineral Broad-Spectrum SPF 36 sunscreen, this kit delivers a concentrated nutrient boost for day and evening cleansing routines. 

WestDerm Ultimate Hydration Regimen  

Your skin needs extra hydration during the dry winter months, and WestDerm’s Ultimate Hydration Regimen delivers major moisture. With the antioxidant power of Green Tea Polyphenols, ultra-hydrating hyaluronic acid, and skin-rejuvenating retinol, this skincare system was specifically engineered to moisturize and rejuvenate all skin types. 

SkinCeuticals Advanced Clear Holiday Kit (Silymarin CF & Clarifying Clay Masque)  

Give yourself a luxurious at-home spa treatment with SkinCeuticals Advanced Clear Holiday Kit! This balanced skincare system combines concentrated antioxidants’ restorative properties with pure earth clay’s potent detoxifying benefits. Oily and combination skin becomes clearer, smoother, more vibrant, and less prone to breakouts. 

For comprehensive medical, cosmetic, and surgical dermatological services, please visit our information page to find an office near you. 

Here’s Why Your Pout Might be Peeling 

Are your lips less than smooch-worthy? Here are a few reasons why, and what you can do to keep your kisser thoroughly kissable! 

If your lips are on the dry side, you probably think you just need to slather on the drugstore lip balm and wait for your lips to restore themselves to their former glory. In most cases, you would probably be right. 

But what if it doesn’t work? 

Seasonal dry lips are perfectly normal. There are no oil glands in the lips, and the lips’ stratum corneum (the layer on top of the skin that acts as a barrier) is extremely thin, so they are particularly vulnerable to the lack of humidity during the cold winter months. Nevertheless, some cases of dry, chapped lips are indications of a medical abnormality.  

Sometimes, you might merely need to put extra care and attention into your normal skin and lip routine. However, cracking dry lips that don’t improve with moisturizer, lip balm, exfoliation, and time might require the attention of a qualified dermatologist. 

This Valentine’s Day, treat your lips to a little extra TLC. Here are a few things you should know about the causes of dry lips, and what you can do about them. 

When to Treat Dry Lips Yourself 

Here are a few common causes of dry lips that you can address at home.  

Too much lip-licking. 

Hang on – you’re not supposed to lick your lips? 

Well, not when they’re super dry, no. The enzymes in saliva are meant to break down the proteins, fats, and carbohydrates in the foods we eat as part of the digestive process; too much saliva on dry lips can make them dryer. 

Because keeping saliva off the lips at all times can be challenging, it’s important to have a good lip balm on hand that can effectively seal in maximum moisture while blocking the corrosive effects of saliva. The best lip balms combine humectants, emollients, and occlusives. This combination attracts atmospheric moisture to the lips and effectively seals it in, creating a protective layer. Paraffin wax lip balms are particularly effective. 

If you are struggling with dry, chapped lips, choose a lip balm without potentially irritating ingredients like menthol or salicylic acid. Apply a thick layer before bed every night, and wear a lip balm with ultraviolet (UV) protection during the day. 

Too much sodium or spice. 

If you’ve spent this winter noshing on salty snacks, you might have found the culprit for your dry lips. The salt and spice content on the exterior of potato chips, crackers, or pretzels can linger on your lips, dehydrating and irritating them.  

Skip the snacking (or switch to healthier raw vegetables and fruits), apply a layer of lip balm, and see if your lips heal in a day or two. 

Too much sun. 

The lip area is especially susceptible to sun damage because the outer barrier is very thin. If you’ve spent this winter on the slopes where UV rays are especially harsh, your lips might be paying the price.  

Treat your lips as though they’ve been sunburned and soothe them with lip balm and aloe vera. Aloe vera gels contain a compound called aloin which has anti-inflammatory properties. It can also attract needed moisture which can minimize peeling. 

Too many skincare products. 

While those exfoliating acids or skin rejuvenating retinol might keep your skin bright and beautiful, they could also irritate your lips’ delicate skin. 

Make sure you aren’t overloading your skin with serums and exfoliants, and always wear a protective layer of lip balm before applying your products. 

When to See a Doctor 

You might have a medical concern if you don’t see improvement after a few days of at-home lip nurturing. Drugstore remedies can’t necessarily correct the following causes of dry lips. 

Infection 

Wearing dentures, drooling in your sleep, or having an underbite might make you more susceptible to yeast growth. This fungal infection can cause pain, dryness, and cracking in the corners of the mouth. 

The most effective solution for fungal growth is anti-fungal medication. Schedule an appointment with a dermatologist to learn the best course of treatment. 

Vitamin Deficiency 

A deficiency in vitamin B12 can cause cracking, soreness, a rash around the mouth, and dryness of the lips. Check with your physician to determine whether you have a vitamin deficiency, and what the cause could be. 

Actinic Cheilitis 

Actinic cheilitis is a condition that emerges after chronic damage from sun exposure. This complication is a potentially serious issue that can progress to skin cancer. Squamous cell carcinomas will emerge in between 10% and 30% of people with actinic cheilitis. 

If your dry lips also have plaques or scaly patches, please schedule an appointment with a dermatologist for an evaluation.  

Contact Dermatitis 

Your skincare products, cosmetics, or personal care products like toothpaste could trigger an allergic response like redness, irritation, and peeling.  

Your dermatologist can help you discover the source of the reaction and prescribe an oral or topical medication that will help address the issue. 

Tell your dry lips to kiss off – schedule an appointment with a board-certified dermatologist today! Visit our information page to find a location near you.  

It’s easy to get confused about insurance coverage for dermatology services. Here is what you should know before scheduling your appointment. 

If you’ve put off a visit to a dermatologist because you aren’t certain your health insurance will cover the costs, please be aware that many skin concerns or changes aren’t simply aesthetic matters — they might merit medical attention. 

While most dermatology clinics offer elective cosmetic services that address issues solely related to the appearance of your skin (laser hair removal, dermal fillers, and tattoo removal, for example), dermatologists are qualified doctors who diagnose and treat medical conditions. If you have concerns about a particular issue relating to the health of your skin, hair, or nails you might be able to apply your health insurance coverage to the cost of your treatment. Here are answers to a few common questions about coverage for dermatological concerns. Always consult with your medical insurance provider to understand what your plan covers. 

Is my issue cosmetic or medical? 

Health insurance coverage will depend on whether your visit is for an elective procedure or an underlying medical condition that needs treatment.  

In general, treatments that address abnormalities relating to illnesses, injuries, or congenital anomalies (lesions, scars, or birthmarks, for example) are covered. 

Although acne seems more like a cosmetic nuisance than a health concern, acne is a medical issue that might require an intervention your provider deems medically necessary under certain circumstances.

For a visit to be deemed a medical necessity, the dermatologist must perform an examination that assesses, identifies, or addresses a medical issue that will negatively affect your overall health if left untreated. Your insurance carrier will provide documentation of the conditions and treatments that qualify for coverage. 

If you are experiencing symptoms and aren’t sure if they would qualify for coverage under your plan, contact your insurance carrier for clarification or call one of our offices and we can help you review your coverage. 

Will my appointment be covered? 

To determine whether your evaluation will be covered by your carrier, you have to first find out if your dermatologist is in your carrier’s network. Your carrier will provide you with a list of the in-network dermatologists in your area. You can also contact a dermatology practice and ask if they accept your insurance plan. 

If you choose to contact a dermatology center directly, please have your insurance information handy so that you can provide the specific plan and policy details. Though some practices might accept an insurance carrier, they might not accept certain plans from that carrier. 

Will I have to be referred by my primary care physician? 

Your insurance carrier might require a referral before covering a visit to a specialist. If you have a point of service (POS) or a health maintenance organization (HMO) plan, your carrier will require a referral from a primary care physician for an in-network dermatologist. 

However, if you have a preferred provider organization (PPO) plan, you might be able to visit an in-network specialist directly. 

It is best to review your plan information with your insurance company. Your insurance card will have a member services phone number you can use to reach a representative who can discuss your coverage terms. 

Will I have out-of-pocket costs? 

Your plan might require you to pay a co-payment even if the treatment is deemed a medical requirement. Your plan might also require you to pay for a portion of your visit – or your entire visit – until you have met your deductible. 

If you have any questions about your insurance coverage, co-payments, your deductible, or payment plan options, we suggest reaching out to your insurance carrier directly but please don’t hesitate to contact us for assistance. We are here to help! 

Here are five new habits that will help you achieve healthy, beautiful skin in 2023! 

Make the most of this new year by adopting a few changes that will help improve and preserve the health of your skin. Here’s a list of lifestyle enhancements you can implement every week in January. 

Week 1: Get Moving and Boost Circulation 

Did you know that when you exercise, you’re also invigorating your skin? That’s right – your heart, lungs, and complexion all benefit from daily cardio.

Exercise helps nourish and maintain skin cells by increasing blood flow. Blood delivers oxygen and nutrient compounds to functioning cells in all parts of the body, and also helps to flush toxins and waste from active cells. You can almost think of exercise as an internal cleansing routine! 

However, if you exercise outdoors, you must take care to shield your skin from the sun’s UV rays, which can cause significant long-term damage. Before heading out for a morning jog, always use an effective, water-resistant sunscreen. One of our favorites is WestDerm Water-Resistant Mineral Sunscreen, an SPF 50 formula that delivers breathable, long-lasting protection that is gentle enough for sensitive and acne-prone skin. 

To maximize your sun protection, wear exercise clothes with as much coverage as practicable. Look for long-sleeved shirts and pants with a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) of at least 50. 

Week 2: Healthy Food for a Healthy Glow 

Give yourself an extra week to enjoy the last of the New Year’s treats before taking a look at how your diet impacts your skin’s health and vibrancy. While your favorite holiday foods might be comforting and delicious, they might not be the best choice for your skin health. 

The foods you eat influence how your body functions and looks; nutrient-dense foods affect your skin’s elasticity and clarity. However, processed foods with little nutritional value also affect your skin’s elasticity and clarity — for the worse. Years of poor nutrition can compromise the skin’s ability to heal, leaving it sallow, dry, and prone to inflammation. A diet deficient in zinc, vitamins E, C, and D, and omega-3 fatty acids can make you more susceptible to acne, keratosis pilaris, and eczema flare-ups. 

The right nutrients can help your skin overcome oxidative stress and enhance its elasticity. Adopting a healthy diet with plenty of vitamin-rich and colorful fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help slow the aging process and neutralize the free radicals that cause serious skin damage. Additionally, your diet can help minimize breakouts of chronic conditions like psoriasis. 

Week 3: Improve Sleep Hygiene 

Would it surprise you to find out that one of the most effortless ways to get clearer, healthier skin is to lie down and get some shut eye? 

Even when we’re sleeping, our bodies continue to work repairing our cells, flushing toxins, and promoting cognitive function. If you’ve ever felt sore, sluggish, and foggy after missing a night of sleep, it’s because your body was unable to perform its work — leaving you worse for wear. Over time, lack of proper sleep can cause significant health consequences, accelerate aging, and diminish your skin’s radiance. 

Maintaining a consistent sleep routine is crucial to the health of your skin. Make sure you achieve at least seven hours of restful sleep per night and do your best to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day — even on weekends and vacations. Be sure to wind down at the end of the day and avoid screen time right before bed; staring at smartphones, computers, and TV screens can interfere with the brain’s ability to unwind, making it difficult to fall asleep. 

Week 4: Make Time to De-Stress 

Chronic, unmanaged stress can cause significant damage to your appearance as well as to your overall health. Emotional stress can inhibit the repair of the epidermal barrier, which facilitates moisture retention and offers protection from bacteria and other potentially harmful pathogens. Moreover, increased levels of cortisol — the stress hormone — have been linked to thinning skin, inflammation, and accelerated aging. 

Stress management strategies can significantly reduce stress-related cellular damage. Some of the most effective stress reduction techniques include: 

• Mindful meditation 
• Exercise 
• Deep breathing 
• Yoga 

Week 5: Make an Appointment with a Qualified Dermatologist 

Make regular visits to your dermatologist one of your New Year’s healthy habits! While you can adopt numerous lifestyle changes that will help preserve your healthy, youthful skin, having a medical professional evaluate your skin once a year can also help keep you and your skin healthy. At an annual visit our physicians and providers can recommend specific, individualized skin treatments that will directly address your unique issues and detect skin cancers and other conditions before they worsen.

To schedule an appointment with our board-certified team of dermatologists and skin care experts, please visit our information page to find a location nearest you today.