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Advanced Dermatology Voted Best Dermatology Clinic and Best Cosmetic/Plastic Surgery Center in Memphis

Memphis, Tenn. (November 18, 2022) – Advanced Dermatology & Skin Cancer Associates was voted Best Dermatology Clinic and Best Cosmetic/Plastic Surgery Center in the Memphis Most 2022 awards. The acknowledgement comes from the readers of the local Memphis publication, the Commercial Appeal.

The Memphis Most program polls the local community to select the best businesses and organizations in the Memphis, TN area. Through nominations and voting, community members choose in more than 150 categories in Beauty & Health, Clothing, Dining, Entertainment & Leisure, Home, Home Services & Finance, Kids & Education, Media, People & Places, Services, Shopping, Spirits, Sports, Top Employer and Vehicles Dealers & Services. The Memphis Most award is a significant achievement and Advanced Dermatology is honored to celebrate you, our patients, for making us Memphis Most winners for the 3rd year in a row.

“Our dedicated staff works hard to ensure each and every patient receives the treatment they need to have healthier and more beautiful skin,” Dr. Purvisha Patel said. “Winning the Memphis Most awards shows we have continued to impress patients by delivering superb dermatology services.”

The mission of Advanced Dermatology is to be the pinnacle of dermatologic care within the Midsouth region. Our strong dedication to providing the best patient care and our commitment to excellence within our local community made it possible for us to celebrate the award with our patients again this year.

Advanced Dermatology has clinics in Germantown, Tenn., Arlington, Tenn., and Olive Branch, Miss. The clinic was founded in 2008 by Dr. Purvisha Patel, and specializes in Mohs surgery, dermatology, aesthetics, and a variety of other skin care services. The practice is certified by the American Board of Dermatology.

For more information about Advanced Dermatology & Skin Cancer Associates, visit the website: www.advanceddermatologymemphis.com.

About Advanced Dermatology & Skin Cancer Associates
Advanced Dermatology & Skin Cancer Associates is the premier dermatology and skin care clinic in the Mid-South, with clinics in Germantown, Tennessee, Arlington, Tennessee, and Olive Branch, Mississippi. Founded in 2008 by Dr. Purvisha Patel, Advanced Dermatology & Skin Cancer Associates specializes in Mohs surgery, dermatology, aesthetics and a variety of other skin care services. Advanced Dermatology & Skin Cancer Associates is certified by the American Board of Dermatology.

Contact
J. Charles Lock, MSA
Chief Executive Officer
901-759-2322
clock@advanceddermatologymemphis.com

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Scary Mommy posted “Why Are My Lips So Dry — No Matter How Much Lip Balm Use?“. The article features Visha Skincare founder Dr. Purvisha Patel and includes her expert insights on the cause of dry lips and ways to keep them moisturized along with tips on ingredients to use in lip products, such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin, aloe vera, and propylene glycol.

Somewhere between spooky season and ‘tis the season is a much less festive spot on the calendar: dry lip season. When the temperature starts to cool, the wind picks up, and the air gets dry (right around late fall), leaving home without a tube of lip balm is not for the faint of heart.

But even those of us who are avid lip salve swipers experience it — the flaking, the crusting (ew), the all-around chapped, dry feeling. The question is — why?! We chatted with skincare pros to dive into why this happens, what we can do, and which products to load up on.

What causes dry lips?

So many things can cause dry, wrinkled lips. “Dehydration, weather changes, certain lip balm ingredients (like menthol, camphor, phenol, and salicylic acid), vitamin deficiencies (specifically iron, zinc, and Vitamin B12), sun damage, and lip-licking can all cause dry lips,” explains Jennifer Weiss, a PA at Marmur Medical.

Add to that list: sun exposure, mouth breathing, and wearing face masks (because, COVID), says Dr. Purvisha Patel, board-certified dermatologist and founder of Visha Skincare.

Aside from external factors, “the skin on your lips is thinner than the rest of your body,” says Janna Ronert, esthetician and founder of IMAGE Skincare. “Your lips don’t have any oil glands, so they become more susceptible to dehydration and dryness,” she explains.

How can I do to prevent and treat dry lips?

A simple but important tip: “Aim to drink at least eight cups of water a day to prevent dehydration,” says Weiss. “This will ensure your body has enough resources to protect your skin when it needs it the most,” Ronert adds. And if you’re someone who enjoys coffee (um, hi) or alcoholic beverages (hello again), try to offset the dehydrating effects by amping up your H2O intake.

As mentioned above, dry lips could be caused by vitamin deficiencies. So of course, aiming to eat well-balanced meals (or supplementing with a multi or specific vitamins) could help prevent a chapped situation too.

Be mindful of ingredients when purchasing lip products. “It’s best to avoid menthol, camphor, phenol, and salicylic acid,” Weiss explains. “These can only make your lips more chapped.” Check the ingredients list of your favorite lip products for these sneaky ingredients — many “hydrating” lip products contain them!

Stash tried-and-true balms in your purse, pocket, car cup holder, and wherever else you might need them. “Make sure to apply lip balm (with SPF 30 or higher) throughout the day and before you go to bed,” Weiss adds, noting that “a thicker ointment such as petroleum jelly instead of waxes and oils will seal in moisture longer.” (Think of this as the slugging skin care trend, for your lips.)

If your lips still don’t seem to be staying quenched, Dr. Patel suggests stepping things up with a weekly lip mask. “The best option would be to use a lip mask that has ingredients like hyaluronic acid (which helps you retain moisture), glycerin, aloe vera, and propylene glycol,” he explains.

Prefer a DIY solution? Weiss tells clients to use a hydrating homemade honey mask, to apply aloe vera (preferably straight from the plant!) to soothe inflammation, or to soak a green tea bag in water, then use it to calm irritated lips.

What are the best products for soft, hydrated lips?

The experts agree: Plain petroleum jelly. “It acts as a protective seal,” Weiss explains. “Vaseline and Aquaphor are always recommended,” agrees Dr. Patel.

You can also opt for quenching and protective balms. “I personally like La Roche Posay Nutritic Lips, which contain seed oil and glycerin,” says Weiss. “My favorite hydrating lip balm is Supergoop Lip Screen, which also contains seed oils and SPF 40.”

Lip masks and scrubs can slough a way dead skin cells and flakes for a smoother appearance, too — and following up with a nourishing lip treatment will give you the softest lips ever. “The IMAGE Skincare ORMEDIC lip enhancement complex is perfect as a lip mask at night. As a bonus, the emollient polypeptide formula makes your lips look naturally full,” says Ronert. “Pair with a lip scrub like Fenty Beauty by Rihanna Pro Kiss’r Lip-Loving Scrubstick to allow your lip care to penetrate into the skin.”

Read the full article here.

The Everygirl posted “Ope, Guess I Have Dry Skin Now—Here’s How to Treat It, According to Experts“. The article features Visha Skincare founder Dr. Purvisha Patel and includes her expert insights on how to help dry skin, with Visha Skincare brand RejuVenating Moisturizer and Visha Skincare brand Face2Feet Body Balm featured as items that help with dry winter skin.

A few weeks ago, I suddenly woke up to the biggest surprise of my life: Every ounce of moisture had been plucked from my face, and I was, once again, a dry skin sufferer. It seemed like out of nowhere, my skincare routine was entirely wrong for my skin type, as my once oily face now needed as much hyaluronic acid, thick creams, and moisturizing oils as it could get.

We all know by now that the seasons changing can affect our skin big time, but until this year, I never quite experienced it as quickly as overnight. Are you suddenly dealing with drier-than-normal skin this fall and looking for a quick fix (and maybe an explanation) too? We turned to the experts.

Why is my skin changing already? It was like 80 degrees last week! Ashley Powers, education director and medical aesthetician at SpaDerma in Chicago, explained that your skin can change as soon as the weather starts changing. For summer, that usually comes with the first days of high humidity. But for fall and winter, “that first crisp in the air when we start to see around 50-degree temperatures” might do the trick.

I normally have oily skin, but now I feel dry. Why?

I couldn’t get enough powder this summer, so I didn’t expect my skin to really change with the weather this year. However, Dr. Purvisha Patel, board-certified dermatologist and founder of Visha Skincare, said that while the change in the weather makes a difference, so do our habits. “Skin in summer is ‘oily,’ not just due to sebum, but also stays moist from sweat and humidity,” Dr. Patel said. “When the weather gets cooler, we tend to take longer and hotter showers. The hot water evaporates easier from the skin, and there is no sweat or humidity in the air to help trap the moisture in. When the water evaporates faster, then the skin appears dry and tight.”

We start changing our habits and daily routines for the fall and winter, and those add up to affecting our skin as well. Dr. Patel suggested using a moisturizer like Visha Skincare RejuVenating Moisturizer or Face 2 Feet Body Balm after taking a shower or bath when the skin is still damp because it’ll help prevent all of that water loss and keep the skin supple and moist. She also recommended upping your water intake.

How does the skin usually change?

Dryness might be about more than patches of dry skin or itchiness; there’s a lot that can happen when your skin lacks moisture. “With any change in [the] weather, you may notice more dryness or tightness, a bit of redness or flaking, or an increase in oil production,” Powers said. So if you’re noticing your skin feels dry after you get out of the shower or you’re randomly feeling a little more oily than normal, you might be dealing with a bout of dry skin after all.

If I have dry skin, how am I supposed to deal with extra dryness?

Going from dry to extra or even ultra-dry is no fun. When you already feel like you can’t get enough moisture in your skin and it somehow comes back at you with flakes, redness, and irritation, throwing in the towel, saying “peace” to your skincare routine, and slathering your face with straight Vaseline is tempting.

Those with dry skin might have actually experienced a little relief over the summer with the humidity levels, but their skin is lacking that now and responding accordingly. Dr. Patel recommended increasing the thickness of your moisturizer—such as opting for a cream instead of a lotion—and reducing how often and how much you’re using exfoliating and dry ingredients like benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, and retinol. You can also add in an oil cleanser, which will moisturize your skin while it cleanses and removes makeup as well as an extra moisturizing step, like a facial oil or hydrating toner or essence.

Should I change my skincare routine?

“With the change in season, it’s important to change your products to what is best suited for your skin type at the moment,” Powers said. “A common phrase I say in the treatment room is to listen to your skin. If it is breaking out, then you may need to spot treat those breakouts; if it’s dry, add more moisture, etc.” If you’re noticing that your skin is changing, then the routine you were previously using might need some tweaks. You don’t need to overhaul every step, but it might be a good idea to change up the ingredients.

Powers is a dry-skin sufferer as well, and she explained that she changes up her routine quite a bit when the seasons change. She switches from a gentle cleanser to something more hydrating, like PCA Skin Creamy Cleanser, and adds a hyaluronic acid serum both morning and night. Powers also swears by PCA Skin’s Hydrate Mask—she said when applied 2-3 times a week, it’s a “lifesaver” during the harsh Chicago winters.

How to Use Acids and Retinol On Dry Skin

If you love exfoliating acids like glycolic, lactic, and even retinol, don’t worry—you don’t have to forgo those ingredients entirely just because your skin is dry. In fact, Powers even recommends it. “When you have dry skin, you have dead skin cells building on top of one another (sorry for that visual), which causes dullness, flaking, and potentially congestion,” Powers said. “By gently exfoliating that dead, dry skin off, your skin will now be able to fully accept all the serums and moisturizers you are about to put on.” She suggested exfoliating with an acid like glycolic acid two to three times a week, depending on how sensitive your skin is. Dr. Patel loves ascorbic acid (AKA vitamin C), azelaic acid, and lactic acid for those with dry, sensitive skin looking to get a little bit of exfoliation.

Powers also recommended adding hyaluronic acid to your routine, saying that everyone can benefit from a little bit of it regularly. “Hyaluronic acid is naturally found in our body, so once you apply, your skin knows exactly what to do with it,” Powers said. However, our body stops naturally producing it once we turn 25, and half of what we already have breaks down in our body by 50. “This is why as we age, we get a little drier and we lose that plump and smoothness to our skin,” Powers said.

If you love your retinoid, the key to making it work with your dry skin is taking it slow, not applying it every day, and always finishing it with a really occlusive, hydrating moisturizer that will lock in the moisture. Peeling and dryness are often synonymous with retinol, but taking a few extra steps to hydrate (like using hyaluronic acid) can make all the difference. You can even apply moisturizer before and after retinol to dilute the product and keep your skin as moisturized as possible.

Is there anything else I can do? I’m dyin’ here.

You probably know by now that the health of your skin is largely based on the health of your body. Both Dr. Patel and Powers recommended keeping hydrated from the inside out by drinking enough water every day (start with at least six glasses a day and go from there) and not skimping on your sunscreen (imagine sun damage on top of all that dryness—yikes). Dr. Patel also recommended getting enough sleep and taking a multivitamin and probiotic daily.

If you’re able to get skin treatments, Powers said starting a chemical peel regimen is a good idea regardless of skin type. “I love peels so much because they are one of the only things we do that can correct multiple concerns in one treatment,” Powers said. “Whether you’re dry, acne-prone, or concerned with premature aging, there is a peel out there for you. Personally, I feel everyone should be on a chemical peel regimen, as they are the best way to keep your skin healthy and strong.” If your skin is too sensitive or you’re not ready for the downtime, she recommended opting for a hydrafacial. On the flip side, if you want something a little more intense, microneedling can rehydrate, smooth, and brighten skin.

Powers highlighted the power of talking to a professional too. “There is so much misinformation out there about what people should use on their skin and what they shouldn’t, and there is no way to know what your skin needs until it has been properly assessed by a licensed aesthetician,” Powers said. “When someone comes in to see me for the first time, I always say, ‘Talk to me. What brings you in today?’ I find the best results happen when the client and I work together toward their goal.” Skincare isn’t about what you see influencers and celebrities using most of the time; it’s really about figuring out what is right for your specific skin, and that can often take time. If you’re struggling with dryness or any change in skin type this year, seeking the advice of an aesthetician or dermatologist is a good way to get your concerns voiced and tailor a routine for you.

Read the full article here.

Well and Good posted “3 Lightweight Moisturizers Derms Say Will Keep Your Skin Hydrated Without Ever Feeling Greasy or Goopy“. The article features Visha Skincare founder Dr. Purvisha Patel and includes her expert insights on choosing the right moisturizer for you.

Having skin that’s adequately hydrated is key for maintaining a strong and healthy skin barrier. Traditionally, getting that hydration meant you had to use heavy, occlusive creams—which of course made things complicated for those with oily skin (who, BTW, need moisture too) or anyone who didn’t like the feel of a thick, goopy product greasing up their face. Now, though, there are plenty of lightweight formulas that get the job done without greasing up your face.

“The biggest mistake is choosing the wrong moisturizer for your skin type,” says Purvisha Patel, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Germantown, Tennessee. “Oily skin generally will need a lighter moisturizer such as a gel or lotion to prevent clogging of pores and acne.”

If you’re looking for a moisturizer that feels lightweight but is actually hydrating enough to protect your skin from the cold winter air and dry indoor air from heaters, we’ve got the three best options below.

3 best lightweight winter moisturizers

CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion — $19.00
“CeraVe PM is a great lightweight moisturizer,” says Heather Woolery-Lloyd, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Miami. That’s because the formula feels light-as-a-feather, but is packed with nourishing ingredients like hydrating hyaluronic acid, soothing and oil-regulating niacinamide, and strengthening ceramides.

La Roche-Posay Toleriane Ultra Face Moisturizer for Sensitive Skin — $32.00
For Shirley Chi, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Southern California, this moisturizer is a go-to. She says it’s so good it’s better than any of the luxury moisturizers out there. “It’s rich enough to be moisturizing, but it’s not super heavy feeling,” she says. “It doesn’t feel like you’re clogging your pores.”

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel-Cream — $30.00
This one is another favorite of Dr. Woolery-Lloyd. It has a gel-cream formula, allowing it to feel cloud-like and sink into the skin super fast while still giving your skin the hydration it needs. It’s made with glycerin and hyaluronic acids, two water-loving ingredients that your skin will drink up.

Read the full article here.

The Wellnest posted “The 8 Types Of Acne You Need To Know, And How To Treat Them“. The article features Visha Skincare founder Dr. Purvisha Patel and includes her expert insights describing the different types of acne including fungal acne, cystic acne, and whiteheads, with Visha Skincare brand Top2Toe recommended for fungal acne.

Acne is a common skin concern, but did you know there are different kinds of breakouts? Dermatologists explain the eight types of acne—and share how best to treat each.

As someone who has struggled with acne since the age of 14, I’ve come to learn that not all breakouts are created equal. When you picture pimples, you likely think of whiteheads or pustules: clogged follicles with a white tip. But there are actually several different types of acne beyond your standard breakout.

Why does this matter? Different kinds of acne respond to different kinds of treatment. Correctly identifying what type of breakout you’re dealing with can help you get rid of it ASAP. And while there are certain treatments that can help acne in general (think: washing your face every day, using retinol, and limiting dairy intake), certain pimples require a more nuanced approach.

Below, dermatologists break down the different types of acne and explain how to treat each one.

The Different Types Of Acne

Below, dermatologists name the different types of acne—from blackheads to cysts.

Comedonal Acne

Comedonal acne refers to the presence of clogged pores, which cause whiteheads and blackheads.

Blackheads

Also known as open comedones, blackheads are open pores that get filled with oil. “The oil is then exposed to air and oxidizes, which makes it appear black,” explains Purvisha Patel, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist in Tennessee. The best way to think of them is like a “plug” of sebum, old skin cells, and bacteria. You might notice blackheads on your nose—but they can crop up on other parts of your face too.

Whiteheads

Whiteheads are pores that have been clogged with oil and dead skin cells. “The pore turns into a white bump, which is seen on the skin,” Dr. Patel explains. These tend to occur more frequently among people who have oily skin.

Inflammatory Acne

“Acne can also be inflammatory, which refers to red bumps known as papules or pustules,” says Marisa Garshick, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York.

Papules

A papule is a small, raised bump on the skin. Papules are red in color and swollen from inflammation. They’re more painful than whiteheads or blackheads, but they’re usually not as painful as cysts or nodules. Papules are what you may think of when you have an “unpoppable” pimple. They shouldn’t be popped, as that can lead to more inflammation and scarring.

Pustules

Aptly-named, pustules are what you probably think of when you picture a pimple. It’s a zit that has come to a head with a white, pus-fulled top (cringe, we know). So, what’s the difference between a pustule and a whitehead? A whitehead is a clogged pore (also known as a hair follicle). A pustule is a clogged follicle that’s inflamed and full of pus.

Nodulocystic Acne

This term refers to deeper cystic breakouts and bumps, according to Dr. Garshick. If you’ve ever experienced large, painful bumps that don’t rise to the surface of your skin, you’ve likely dealt with nodulocystic acne.

Cysts

Ever felt a pimple forming underneath your skin? Cystic acne doesn’t typically have a white top—instead, they form under your complexion (but they’re still filled with pus). “Cysts are caused by follicular occlusion, bacterial or fungal overgrowth, oil production, and inflammation,” explains Purvisha Patel, MD, FAAD, board-certified dermatologist in Tennesee. “They tend to form deep in the hair follicles, usually appear around the neck and jaw, and typically don’t have a pustule. They can be painful depending on your inflammatory response.”

Nodules

Nodules are another form of nodulocystic acne. They’re different from cysts in that they aren’t filled with pus—instead, they usually contain hardened sebum. Instead, they form a hard bump deep in the skin and feel painful at the surface. Nodules aren’t always red. In fact, they can match your skin tone. They do take time to go away and usually require intensive treatments.

Hormonal Acne

If you notice that breakouts tend to pop up right around your period, you’re likely dealing with acne caused by hormones. “Hormonal acne worsens during the menstrual cycle and affects the lower half of the face with deeper, cystic stubborn breakouts,” Dr. Garshick says. “Often those with hormonal acne will complain of just one or two deeper breakouts, but they can linger for several weeks.”

Fungal Acne

Despite being referred to as acne, fungal acne isn’t *technically* a classification of acne at all. It’s an infection of the hair follicle caused by an overgrowth of yeast on your skin (as opposed to bacteria that causes acne). “It is usually found on your back, shoulders, and chest and looks and feels like acne,” Dr. Patel says. However, it won’t respond to traditional acne treatments—it requires topical or oral antifungal medications.

How To Treat Acne By Type

While diagnosing yourself at home is tempting, the safest and most effective way to treat acne is to see a dermatologist. “It’s best to see a derm for further guidance, especially when you’re not getting the results you want,” Dr. Patel says. “If acne is not treated correctly it can result in scarring, hyperpigmentation, and disfigurement.” That said, these derm-approved tips can help.

Comedonal Acne

Since comedonal acne refers to clogged pores, you want to use topicals to help clear out your pores. “For those with comedonal acne, including whiteheads and blackheads, it can help to use salicylic acid, an exfoliating beta-hydroxy acid, and retinoids to help address the clogged pores,” Dr. Garshick says. Just be careful not to overdo the exfoliating, as you could damage your skin barrier (the outermost layer of your skin) and cause even more irritation.

Another option? Get your blackheads or whiteheads extracted by a professional, says Dr. Patel. If you’re hoping to avoid any scarring or damage to your skin barrier, this is your best bet. A professional extraction will quickly clear out the pore so your skin can start healing.

Want to give your complexion a boost? Try taking HUM’s Daily Cleanse. It’s packed with natural detoxifiers to help clear your skin from the inside out.

Inflammatory Acne

“While those with inflammatory breakouts can also benefit from using a retinoid and salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide or sulfur are other ingredients to consider to help address the bacterial component and inflammation,” Dr. Garshick says. “In some cases, oral or topical prescriptions may be helpful as well.” Nutrition is also a factor at play here. If you have food sensitivities or allergies, that would contribute to inflammatory acne. Additionally, a high-inflammatory diet could impact your complexion. Try incorporating anti-inflammatory foods (like berries, leafy greens, and fatty fish) into your diet to help.

Nodulocystic Acne

“Some of the treatment options for those with nodulocystic acne may include retinoids and benzoyl peroxide, it is often recommended to use prescriptions, either oral or topical, which may include oral antibiotics or isotretinoin or other hormonal targeting treatments such as spironolactone or oral contraceptive pills,” Dr. Garshick says.

Hormonal Acne

When someone notices breakouts around their period or suspects a hormonal component, it can be helpful to consider hormonal treatments like spironolactone or oral contraceptive pills. You can also support a clear complexion by incorporating hormone-balancing foods (such as eggs, fatty fish, leafy greens, avocados, and nuts). Or, try taking HUM’s Moody Bird, which is made with a potent herbal blend to support healthy hormone balance.

Fungal Acne

Since fungal acne is an overgrowth of yeast instead of bacteria, it requires antifungal treatments. “Exfoliating Washes with sulfur, zinc tea tree oil, ketoconazole, and selenium sulfide that kill the fungal organism help,” Dr. Patel says. She adds that an exfoliating body wash can help (Visha Skincare Top2Toe has bakuchiol, zinc, and tea tree oil to help with fungal acne).

The Takeaway

There are several different types of acne, and each one requires different treatments. That’s why familiarizing yourself with the different kinds of acne is helpful. But remember that your best bet is to see a professional. “Because acne can lead to scarring, it is important to treat early and to avoid doing anything that can exacerbate or worsen the scarring as that can be much harder to treat,” Dr. Garshick says. “There are a lot of options available to treat acne but using too much or using products incorrectly can lead to more skin issues and concerns.”

While treatments for acne matter, lifestyle matters too. Dr. Patel recommends staying hydrated (aim to drink at least six glasses of water), getting enough sleep (at least eight hours), a multivitamin (HUM Nutrition’s Base Control is a great option), a probiotic (like HUM’s Gut Instinct), and being mindful of your dairy and sugar intake.

Read the full article here.

In this syndicated live product spotlight, Visha Skincare founder, Dr. Patel‘s

Advanced Bright Eye Booster is featured for its ability to treat hyperpigmentation and inflammation, as well as for its fast-acting reduction of fine lines and wrinkles.

Regular contributor, Grace Gold is back with us with some of her fresh ideas for the new season!

Watch on Youtube

Newbeauty posted “How to Tell If Your Dry Skin Is Something More Serious“. The article features Visha Skincare founder Dr. Purvisha Patel and includes her expert insights on the characteristics and causes of psoriasis.

If you’ve ever suffered from dry skin, it can take several different products, scaling back on the hot showers and a bit of trial-and-error before you get things under control. But what happens when none of your efforts work and your dry skin is in fact something more difficult to treat, such as eczema or psoriasis? Here, dermatologists explain the difference between dry skin and common skin conditions eczema and psoriasis that are linked to dryness, and when it’s time to call the doctor.

Characteristics of Dry Skin

“Dry skin results when our environment is less humid than our skin and we lose moisture to our surroundings,” explains New York dermatologist Orit Markowitz, MD. “Moving to the tropics would cure your dry skin, but if that is not an option, then a humidifier and moisturizing after a shower with a moisturizer that seals in moisture like Alastin or Aquaphor Spray, will help as well.”

Eagan, MN dermatologist Charles Crutchfield III, MD advises his patients to always use a gentle soap that contains no detergents (or a low amount) when they shower or bathe. “I recommend Vanicream’s Cleansing Bar or Dove’s Unscented Bar. That’s as important as the lotion is, which you should apply directly after bathing. Use a cotton towel to pat dry and then apply the lotion. Be sure to also put lotion on your hands every time you wash them, especially in the winter. That makes a big difference.”

“Anytime the dry skin develops into cracks, fissures, irritation, bleeding, and/or there is pain or discomfort, then it should be treated,” adds Dr. Crutchfield. “Usually, a dermatologist can tell the difference between eczema and psoriasis, but the main thing is to keep your skin hydrated so xerotic eczema (dermatitis from excessive dryness) does not happen.”

Characteristics of Eczema

“There are different categories of dry skin just like there are different categories of eczema, but the classic dry skin category is on the spectrum with the classic nummular eczema category,” Dr. Markowitz explains. “When does it officially become nummular eczema? When we start to see patches of flaking, not just overall flakiness or dryness. Avoiding scrubs and harsh soaps is important, and if things do not improve, then you may have a more severe form of eczema and seeing a board-certified dermatologist may be the next step.”

Dallas dermatologist Rebecca Marcus, MD says eczema tends to occur on the inner arms, backs of the knees, hands, neck, and around the eyes, though it can occur on any part of the body. “The difference between dry skin and eczema essentially is inflammation in the skin,” adds New York dermatologist Joshua Zeichner, MD. “When the skin barrier becomes disrupted, it can lead not only to loss of hydration, but also inflammation that translates to a red, itchy rash. That’s what we call eczema.”

“Eczema can be flared with dry skin, but can also be triggered by stress, certain fabrics, scents or perfumes, and other factors, and is due to an inherent weakness in the skin barrier,” explains New York dermatologist Rachel Nazarian, MD. “Eczema often evolves into an inflammatory itchy rash, increasing risk of skin infection. One of the most important aspects of eczema is skin care and method of cleansing. Harsh or aggressive cleansing can directly cause eczema flares, and increase risk of future flares by weakening the skin further. I recommend for all my patients struggling with eczema to minimize hot showers, use only unscented gentle cleansers, and moisturize their skin daily.”

If a flare cannot be managed by these simple changes, or by the use of a topical over-the-counter steroid cream (hydrocortisone) for a week, Dr. Nazarian recommends contacting your dermatologist for evaluation. “Keep in mind always that eczema has a risk of becoming infected, and oftentimes secondary antibacterial medications are required, or stronger steroid and non-steroid prescription creams are necessary.”

Characteristics of Psoriasis

Germantown, TN dermatologist Purvisha Patel, MD says psoriasis is when your T cells attack your skin and create inflammation in your body, resulting in rashes that vary in color. “These flares can be caused by strep throat or viruses and stress.”

“Psoriasis tends to be distributed on the scalp, elbows, knees and lower back, but like eczema, it can occur anywhere on the body,” Dr. Marcus explains. “It typically presents with red, inflamed, scaly patches and plaques on the skin, often in distinct shapes with areas of demarcation, whereas dry skin tends to be more widespread. Psoriasis may also be associated with joint pain or nail pitting, or it may have no associated symptoms. Dry skin tends to improve with the use of moisturizer, whereas this will have minimal effect for eczema and psoriasis. If you have dry, scaly, inflamed skin that is not getting better with over-the-counter moisturizers, it’s time to call a dermatologist.”

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Byrdie posted “16 Emerging Skincare Brands to Add to Your Routine” Noting Visha Skincare founder, Dr. Patel‘s deliberate attention to creating effective products for wide-ranging demographics, this product spotlight features Visha Skincare Cheek 2 Feet Spray.

Skincare is far from an untapped market, but mark our words: some of the best brands have yet to hit the mainstream. These days we’re flooded with so many options that the truly remarkable newbies on the scene can get lost in the shuffle. Now we wouldn’t dare tell you to give up your tried and true favorites (you couldn’t pay us to either), but there’s something thrilling about discovering something new.

There are a ton of reasons to shop with budding skincare brands. For one, small brands tend to have a unique origin story (often born out of the founder’s skin woes). They also typically target a specific demographic (like melanin-rich complexions or acne-prone skin) and often feature a beloved hero ingredient across the entire line. Ahead, we’ve rounded up 16 emerging skincare brands worth adding to your routine.

Well and Good posted “This Exfoliating Toner Has Derms’ 3 Favorite Ingredients for De-congesting Pores” According to Visha Skincare founder, Dr. Patel, it’s easy for the pores in our skin to get clogged. Exfoliating salicylic acid helps to clear and prevent pore blockages. Anti-inflammatory tranexamic acid also treats hyperpigmentation. And aloe vera is famously antibacterial and soothing.

Congested skin doesn’t feel good. Even if you don’t have a ton of pimples, when your pores are clogged it can be irritating. If this is something you deal with regularly, incorporating gentle exfoliating toner could be a game-changer. Medik8 just launched one that’s made with the crème de la crème of de-gunking and pore-soothing ingredients that derms love: salicylic acid, tranexamic acid, and aloe vera. Plus, it gets an added hydration boost from sake.

“Pores can get filled with dirt, oil, sweat, makeup,” and dead skin cells, says Purvisha Patel, MD, board-certified dermatologist and founder of Visha Skincare.  Board-certified dermatologist Marnie Nussbaum, MD adds that “once the sweat and oil sits on top of the skin, the pores get clogged and produce inflammation. The excess oil also allows for growth of P. acnes, the bacteria which causes acne.”

Regular exfoliation with the ingredients in the Medik8 Press & Clear ($38) can help you de-clog your pores and keep them clear. Just apply a bit to a cotton pad and sweep it over clean skin. It feels light—no stinging—and it’s free of alcohol so it doesn’t leave your skin feeling dry or tight.

Medik8 Press & Clear — $38.00

Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that’s known for its pore-clearing abilities. In this formula, 2 percent salicylic acid is encapsulated so it’s gently released.

“BHAs encourage exfoliation, helping to prevent and treat blocked pores, and also may help diminish some types of superficial hyperpigmentation,” David Lortscher, MD, dermatologist and founder of Curology, previously told Well+Good. Salicylic acid “works by penetrating and dislodging the gunk (sebum) in your pores, so that it’s no longer trapped—resulting in a lower chance of triggering an acne breakout.”

Tranexamic acid is a brightening ingredient that helps to even out discoloration while decreasing inflammation that clogged pores can cause. It will “help calm the skin, reduce inflammation, and help promote the health of the skin’s natural barrier,” says Colorado-based board-certified plastic surgeon Manish Shah, MD.

Aloe vera can also make a huge difference. “Not only is [aloe vera] super-soothing, but it helps heal the bacteria that could be causing acne,” Valerie Grandury, founder of Odacite skin care, previously told Well+Good. The toner also includes sake extract which is derived from fermented rice water and rich in natural amino acids and is super soothing and hydrating.

All these ingredients together make for an effective exfoliant that’s gentle enough to work into your daily routine, keeping your pores clear and soothed.

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