Siobhan Arey, PA-C, Joins Optima Dermatology in Scarborough, ME

Optima Dermatology is excited to introduce Siobhan Arey, PA-C, a board-certified physician assistant who provides dermatology services in our Scarborough, ME practice. Siobhan has been caring for patients since 2017, and treats a wide range of skin conditions, including eczema, psoriasis, and acne. Siobhan also provides screenings and treatments for skin cancer. Siobhan earned her Master of Physician Assistant Studies from Le Moyne College. She earned her Master of Public Health from Syracuse University, and received her Bachelor’s degree in psychology and neuroscience from the University of Maine. Following her undergraduate work, Siobhan spent two years contributing full-time service to the AmeriCorps Volunteers in Service to America (VISTA), an anti-poverty program. Siobhan is a member of the American Academy of Physician Assistants, the Maine Association of Physician Assistants, and the Pi Alpha National Physician Assistant Honor Society. She also co-authored survey research regarding telemedicine in dermatology practice during the pandemic, which was published in JAAD and Cutis.

Putting Patients at the Center of Care

Originally from Gorham, ME, Siobhan has been treating patients in the state since 2021. Her approach to dermatology services is thoughtful and caring, and Siobhan embodies Optima’s stated commitment to treating all patients the way we would want our family and friends to be treated.  Siobhan involves her patients in their skin care, ensuring you understand and are part of decisions around diagnosis and treatment. Education and trust are core to her approach to patient care. We recently had the opportunity to learn more about Siobhan, her approach, and the path that led her to become a board-certified nurse practitioner.

---

Where did you go to college?

I completed my undergraduate degree at the University of Maine. I then attended Syracuse University and Upstate Medical University’s joint program for my masters in public health. I completed my physician assistant training at LeMoyne College. What made you decide to pursue a career in dermatology? What did the path to get there look like? Dermatology wasn’t on my radar, but it was my first unit in PA school and after that I was hooked. I was very fortunate that my professor from that unit acted as a mentor. I did my electives in dermatology during school and received an offer for a dermatology position immediately after graduating. I worked at Upstate Medical University until I moved back to Maine. I have had excellent physician and PA mentors for whom I am very grateful, and I continue to keep in touch with them. The dermatology community is an amazing collaborative group.

What are your favorite aspects of dermatology?

I love the hands-on nature of dermatology, as well as the concentration and attention to detail needed to be an excellent dermatology provider.

On your journey to becoming a board-certified physician assistant, what was the best advice you were given?

The thing that unites us is that we will all be patients one day, so treat every patient the way you would want to be treated if you or your family members were seeking care.

What is your number one tip when it comes to taking care of your skin?

Sunscreen always! And take inventory every month for new or changing spots. Reach out to a dermatology clinic for skin cancer screening appointments yearly or as recommended by your provider.

How would you describe your approach to treating patients?

I like my patients to actively participate in their care. I do my best to explain everything and offer education and encourage self awareness to prevent skin cancers and treat skin conditions.

What do you like to do when you are not in the office?

Being on the water at the lake or at the beach and hiking! Maine is such a beautiful place and I love enjoying the outdoors with my family.

---

What to Expect From Dermatological Care Delivered by Siobhan and Her Team

Siobhan and her team at Optima Dermatology offer exceptional services and have the advanced training and experience to ensure the highest quality of care.

She is currently accepting new patients at our Scarborough, ME location. Request an appointment online or give us a call at 207-770-5621.

Cosmetic treatments are for everyone! Aesthetic services have continued to gain popularity amongst men in recent years, particularly procedures that address the top three areas men are most concerned about – the hairline, jawline, and eyes. There are a range of non-surgical treatment options to help provide a refreshed, rejuvenated, and natural look. Dr. Gregory Delost of our Mentor, OH practice recently joined Nicole Marcellino of New Day Cleveland to talk about treatment options for these top concerns. Check out the full interview to learn more!

Board-Certified Dermatologist Dr. Stead Shares the Best Products

We’re back with another Derm Deep Dive, a series where we provide expert advice from one of our board-certified dermatologists about a specific topic in skin care. For this edition, we’re speaking with Dr. Jennifer Stead, DO, FAAD, from our Bedford, NH practice, about the best products to combat dry skin and help you maintain a healthy and effective skincare routine.

It’s important to take care of your skin in the morning and again at night before you go to bed. Dr. Stead recommends the following morning and nighttime products.

Morning Skin Care

---

Set your skin up for success every day. A good morning skincare routine helps protect your skin from exposure to UV rays, dirt, bacteria, sweat, and other damaging factors.

Try these products to give your skin a barrier against anything your day throws your way.

Revision Gentle Foaming Cleanser

This soothing, soap-free foam cleanser gently and effectively cleanses skin with a rich, velvety foam. The combination of chamomile, aloe vera, and allantoin helps calm and moisturize skin, leaving it feeling smooth and soft.

Revision Soothing Facial Rinse

This calming, alcohol-free formula gently hydrates and refreshes skin with each cleanse. A unique blend of plant and algae extracts leaves skin feeling soft and smooth and helps keep skin at its optimum pH level.

Alastin HA

Instantly boost skin hydration with this hyaluronic acid serum that promotes long-term skin plumping, anti-aging, and hydration, while also minimizing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Nighttime Skin Care

---

A nighttime skincare routine is the perfect way to wind down, and it doesn’t have to be complicated! First, wash away dirt and impurities with the Revision Gentle Foaming Cleanser used in your morning routine. Your skin revitalizes itself during the night, so why not give it some help with skin care products that repair and rejuvenate the skin while you sleep?

EltaMD Skin Recovery Night Mask

This nighttime mask repairs and regenerates skin three times faster at night than during the day, making it a staple of your nighttime skin care routine. It helps strengthen the skin barrier, visibly reduces redness, improves hydration, and gives your skin a well-rested, radiant glow. Plus, it is free of dyes, fragrances, and parabens, is non-comedogenic, and is suitable for sensitive and acne-prone skin types.

Isdin Melatonik

Try this restorative nighttime serum-in-oil, which works while you sleep to help your skin recover from daily stresses. Its 3-in-1 formula contains melatonin, bakuchiol, and vitamin C, which together stimulate your skin’s natural antioxidant defenses and help restore vitality and elasticity for healthy, more radiant skin.

Sticking to a Healthy Routine

Remember that consistency is key. Try to maintain a regimen for three months for proper evaluation, and don’t give up too quickly. If you are testing too many products at once or moving on after a couple of weeks, it’s hard to know what’s working!

Are you in the Manchester area, or are you in a different state and have concerns about your skin? Do you want to discuss the best approach to your skincare? Schedule an appointment with one of our dermatologists or providers for an initial consultation and to get started on a path to healthier, happier skin.

Please note that the available skin care products vary by location.

Meet Board-Certified Physician Assistant Ally Schmerge

Optima Dermatology is excited to introduce Ally Schmerge, PA-C, who provides medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology services for patients in Bloomington, IN. Ally offers treatments to patients of all ages for a wide range of skin conditions.

Ally has been serving patients since 2021 and has had many years of education and training in the dermatology field.

Ally earned her Doctor of Medical Science and Master of Physician Assistant Studies from Butler University, where she was a member of the Order of Omega Honor Society and an ambassador of the Physician Assistant Student Ambassadors program. She also co-authored numerous publications.

Throughout her education and training, Ally completed multiple clinical rotations, including dermatology, women’s health, family medicine, emergency medicine, and more.

Before completing her DMS and Masters, Ally graduated Cum Laude from DePauw University with a bachelor’s degree in Cellular & Molecular Biology and a minor in Chemistry.

Ally is a certified NCCPA Physician Assistant and is a member of the Indiana Academy of Physician Assistants, and the American Academy of Physician Assistants.

Ally is committed to helping patients learn about and practice skin cancer prevention, and in her Doctor of Medical Science program, she constructed a research proposal focused on the early detection of malignant melanoma in rural U.S. counties.

A Passionate, Patient-Centered Approach

With a passion for all things skin care, Ally’s approach to her patients mirrors Optima Dermatology’s overall mission: to treat every patient like they are our family. She takes the time to listen to each patient and will develop a personalized skin care plan to treat your unique needs.

We recently had the opportunity to learn more about Ally, her approach, and the path that led her to become a board-certified physician assistant.

---

Where did you go to college?

I completed my undergraduate degree in Cellular & Molecular Biology, with a minor in Chemistry, at DePauw University. I then attended Butler University for my Master of Physician Assistant Studies and Doctor of Medical Science.

What made you decide to pursue a career in dermatology? What did the path to get there look like?

I have been passionate about dermatology from a young age. My own acne journey allowed me to understand how much skin health can affect confidence. I kept an open mind in PA school as I completed rotations in various specialties, but my elective rotation in dermatology reinforced my enthusiasm for helping patients take care of their largest organ, the skin!

What is your favorite aspect of dermatology?

My favorite aspect of dermatology is the ability to have continuity of care and develop relationships with my patients. The years of studying are so worth it when I can contribute to my patients attaining healthier skin, boosting not only their physical well-being but also enhancing their self-confidence.

On your journey to becoming a board-certified physician assistant, what was the best advice you were given?

Even before starting PA school, I recognized that healthcare is a multidisciplinary field. During my rotations, however, the teams I worked with allowed me to develop an even deeper understanding of how this impacts patient care. Each member of the team brings unique expertise and skills to the table. I witnessed that leveraging this collective knowledge can accomplish greater outcomes for our patients than what any single individual can achieve alone. Implementing this practice ensures a comprehensive and well-rounded approach to healthcare, addressing the diverse needs of my patients.

What is your number one tip when it comes to taking care of your skin?

Skin care isn’t a “one size fits all” thing! Take the time to learn about your skin type — normal, oily, combination, dry, or sensitive — and what kinds of products are best suited for your skin type.

How would you describe your approach to treating patients?

I am an active listener. As providers, it can be tempting on busy clinic days to go into the patient room with a predetermined treatment plan. When I walk into the room, I want to hear about what has or hasn’t worked, and what my patient is willing or not willing to try. Then, together, we create a personalized treatment plan.

What do you like to do when you are not seeing patients?

When I am not in the office, I love to spend quality time with my family and friends. I also enjoy being outside, especially taking walks or hiking, traveling to new places, and reading a good book. My husband, Taylor, and I recently moved to Bloomington, so we are looking forward to exploring our new city and trying new restaurants.

What to Expect From Dermatological Care Delivered by Ally and Her Team

If you’re seeking dermatological care, no matter how routine or complex, Ally and her team at Optima Dermatology offer exceptional services and have the advanced training and experience to ensure the highest quality of care.

Ally is currently accepting new patients at our Bloomington, IN. location. Request an appointment online or give us a call at 812-200-2458.

White Delivers Expert Medical Dermatology Treatments to Patients

Optima Dermatology is excited to introduce Michelle White, NP-C, who provides medical dermatology services for patients in Bedford, NH. Michelle has been serving patients in New England since 2009 and treats a wide range of skin conditions for patients of all ages.

Michelle earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences University and continued at MCPHS University to earn her Master of Science in Nursing degree as a Family Nurse Practitioner.

Throughout her education, Michelle was a member of Sigma Theta Tau International, a National Nursing Honor Society. She is also a member of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners, the Massachusetts Coalition of Nurse Practitioners, and the American Academy of Family Physicians.

A Passionate, Patient-Centered Approach

Michelle brings a passion and commitment to skin care and her patients’ skin health that aligns with Optima Dermatology’s overall mission: to treat every patient like they are our family. She understands it can be intimidating and difficult to seek help with skin issues and takes the time to listen to and understand her patients’ concerns while providing an inviting, relaxing atmosphere.

We recently had the opportunity to learn more about Michelle, her approach, and the path that led her to become a board-certified nurse practitioner.

Where did you go to college?

I originally wanted to be a veterinarian as a childhood dream. As such I first went to the University of New Hampshire and obtained a Bachelor of Science in Animal Science: Pre-Veterinary Medicine. I later realized my love for nursing and dermatology. I went back to school after 10 years for nursing and shortly thereafter for my master’s in nursing as a nurse practitioner from MCPHS University in Manchester, NH.

What made you decide to pursue a career in dermatology?

While I was working in the veterinary field, I was placed in the dermatology department. A veterinarian made a comment that she saw me as a “nurse practitioner” of the veterinary world.  Since this position didn’t exist, I started thinking seriously about becoming a nurse practitioner in the specialty I was familiar with. It was obvious during my clinical rotations that dermatology was where my heart directed me. All the while, I had been working at a dermatology practice since 2007 and throughout my education, which heightened my drive for this specialty. Having a mother who is a retired registered nurse for a dermatology practice also gives me the feeling it’s genetic.

What is your number one tip when it comes to taking care of your skin?

Sun protection. Having a fulfilling life is important and to be completely fulfilled, we need to do what is necessary to preserve the health of our skin. As skin cancer is the most commonly occurring type of cancer, protection from UV exposure is important. And sunscreen is only one type of protection. There are numerous options to protect our skin, including UPF clothing, sunglasses, umbrellas, wide-brim hats, avoiding high UV peaks – and more. Having options for how we can protect our skin gives us the ability to live life to the fullest along with ensuring a healthy glow.

If there is one thing you want your patients to know about you, what would it be?

My family is my life. Providing the best care to my patients is like welcoming them to the family.  My patients are excited when their skin conditions resolve, as am I. They are also disappointed and frustrated when their skin conditions do not improve as quickly as expected. I feel that frustration too. For these reasons, I’m committed to working together as a team with each patient to create a plan that will work best for them and that will deliver the best possible outcome. I care for them both during our time together and in the long run.

On your journey to becoming a board-certified nurse practitioner, what was the best advice you were given?

Never be afraid to lean on your colleagues and to think outside of the box. The best care comes in the form of the team approach. My goal for my patients is to provide the best care I can give as if they were family, and to do so often means leveraging other medical providers who can help find the answers to a patient’s health condition. I don’t claim to “know it all” and rely heavily on evidence-based practices from research and colleagues who may have additional experiences that have worked well for their patients. On occasion, some patients may even be referred for second opinions because, at the end of the day, it’s not always a straight line to a resolution. Getting the care my patients need is of utmost priority and is done with the patient’s best interests at heart.

What is your approach to treating your patients?

Coming to see a provider for the first time or repeat times can be uncomfortable for some, especially when they are asked to disrobe. My approach for all my patients comes with humor to lighten the tension, and honesty above all else. I provide professional care as expected but believe in humor and conversation to fill the “void” and ease discomfort. If the patient is talkative, I am a great listener. If the patient is shy, I can gauge how much conversation and humor is appropriate. Overall, not only will the patient have a very thorough exam and expert advice, but they will always leave with a good experience that was not as intimidating as they may have expected.

What do you like to do when you are not in the office treating patients?

My family is my life, and my daughter is my favorite person. Any opportunity I have to spend the days away with her along with my multiple animals (dogs, cats, fish, chickens, and ducks) are the best days. I’m a homesteader enthusiast so most days I am working on my property with the animals and landscape or indoors preserving the bounties of my harvest. Summer is my all-time favorite season and all the activities that come along with it such as going to the beach, Canobie Lake Park, water parks, Six Flags, kayaking, fishing, hiking, you name it.

What to Expect From Dermatological Care Delivered by Michelle and Her Team

If you’re seeking dermatological care, no matter how routine or complex, Michelle and her team at Optima Dermatology offer exceptional services and have the advanced training and experience to ensure the highest quality of care.

Michelle is currently accepting new patients at our Bedford, NH location. Request an appointment online or give us a call at 603-942-2003.

When it comes to your skincare routine, it’s important to consult with your dermatologist to understand the right products for your needs. With so much misinformation available online, consulting with an expert will save you time, money and potential skin and health issues. Dr. Gregory Delost of our Mentor, OH location recently sat down with David Moss of New Day Cleveland to talk about which skincare trends we should incorporate into our routine to maintain healthy skin, and which to skip.

Here’s What You Need to Know About Mohs Micrographic Surgery for Skin Cancer

Mohs surgery is considered to be the most effective technique for treating skin cancer and has been shown to result in cure rates of up to 99% in skin cancer patients. We’re proud to offer this surgery to our patients at two Optima Dermatology locations. If you have been diagnosed with skin cancer, Mohs surgery can be a great option. Providing Mohs surgery uniquely allows Optima Dermatology to deliver a full scope of skin cancer treatment in-house, making the treatment process easier for our patients.

Our board-certified micrographic dermatological surgeons, Dr. Brienne Cressey, who serves patients at our Stratham, NH practice, and Dr. Sherry Yu, who serves patients at our Macedonia, OH practice, have provided answers to the most frequently asked questions our patients have about Mohs surgery. Here’s what you need to know about this skin cancer treatment to help inform you of your options and how this approach can help.

Mohs Micrographic Surgery FAQs

Q: What is Mohs Micrographic Surgery and how does it work?

A: The Mohs procedure involves surgically removing skin cancer layer by layer and examining the tissue under a microscope until healthy, cancer-free tissue around the tumor is reached. This process allows the removal of all cancerous cells for the highest cure rate while sparing healthy tissue and leaving the smallest possible scar.

Mohs micrographic surgery is the gold standard for the treatment of skin cancers on cosmetically sensitive areas such as the face, areas with limited tissue mobility for wound closure like the hands/feet/scalp or shins, and for aggressive or recurrent skin cancers.

Q: When speaking to patients about Mohs surgery, how is the process explained?

In excisions, the tissue is sent to pathology, and slices are reviewed, similar to slices of bread. A larger skin margin is needed since the entire border is not evaluated.

However, Mohs surgery removes and processes skin cancer with a small healthy tissue margin. A helpful comparison is to think of it as a pie crust and pie filling. The pie filling is the tumor and the healthy tissue margin is the pie crust.

We remove a narrow healthy tissue margin around the skin cancer and examine the entire peripheral margin and deep margin (pie crust). If any skin cancer is identified, we take an additional margin of skin in that area. Once the “pie crust” is 100% clear, we know the tumor has been removed. This process provides the highest cure rate.

Q: When would a dermatologist recommend Mohs surgery over other skin cancer treatment options?

Mohs surgery is most often recommended for skin cancers on the face, neck, hands, and feet where it is most important to spare as much normal skin tissue as possible. It is also ideal for situations where tumors may be large, aggressive, or recurrent.

Q: What are the advantages of Mohs surgery for skin cancer removal?

Because the entire skin margin is evaluated, Mohs surgery conserves tissue as it requires a smaller margin of normal tissue compared to standard excisions. There is precise microscopic control of the entire tumor margin and as a result, Mohs surgery is the most highly effective approach to skin cancer treatment.

By maintaining skin tissue, Mohs surgery helps cure patients while protecting the areas of their skin that require treatment.

Q: What can patients expect from Mohs surgery?

Patients should expect to be at our office for several hours on the day of surgery. After surgery, they will go home with a large bandage and likely have some restrictions in activity for several days to several weeks.

Mohs surgery is performed using a local anesthetic to numb the area. We talk to each patient during the procedure so you are aware of what is going on. Once clear skin margins are obtained, the area is often sutured to provide the best cosmetic outcome possible.

Next, we asked each of our Mohs surgeons a little bit about their career paths and backgrounds. Exception patient care is at the core of what we do at Optima Dermatology, and our surgeons are truly experts in their field.

Q: What type of education and training is required to become a Mohs surgeon, and what led you to choose this particular career path?

Dr. Sherry Yu: I earned my medical degree from Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio. I completed my residency in dermatology through the Harvard Combined Dermatology Residency Training Program and a fellowship in Mohs micrographic surgery and dermatologic oncology at Yale University School of Medicine.

I have always liked the balance of medicine and surgery in dermatology and, more specifically, Mohs surgery. Additionally, much of my academic research has focused on how medical conditions affect quality of life and how many chronic skin diseases have been shown to have a significant impact on patients.

Dr. Brienne Cressey: I studied Biochemistry and Chemistry at The University of Maine. I then went to Tufts University for medical school where I received my MD and MBA, followed by my internship at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and a dermatology residency at New York Presbyterian-Weill Cornell in New York City.

I then continued to be a Dermatologic Oncology Fellow at Dermatology Professionals in Rhode Island, working under Dr. Nathaniel Jellinek to complete my Fellowship in Mohs Micrographic Surgery, facial reconstruction, and lasers and cosmetics.

I have always enjoyed the complexity of dermatology and the procedural aspect of the field. I’m able to combine Mohs surgery with my favorite aspects of medicine to deliver the most impactful and well-rounded patient care.

Q: Do you work with dermatologists outside of Optima Dermatology, and what do those relationships look like?

We do – and we are very grateful for our outside referring dermatologists and their patients. We strive to keep your dermatologist in the loop and will send them information when you have scheduled your appointment and again when you have had your surgery. After surgery, you will return to your dermatologist for regularly scheduled follow-ups.

We work with dermatologists at the VA, other dermatology practices, and primary care practices in the area. Our offices receive biopsy pathologies and referrals. Once this information is received, our team will contact you to review the Mohs procedure, discuss your expectations and concerns, answer any questions, and schedule your appointment.

Optima Dermatology offers Mohs surgery at our Stratham, NH, and Macedonia, OH locations. You can call us at (855) 277- 9689 to learn more!

Meet Board Certified Nurse Practitioner Trevor Lippincott

Optima Dermatology is excited to introduce Trevor Lippincott, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, who will be treating patients in Salem, NH, and Stratham, NH. Trevor offers dermatology treatments to patients of all ages for various skin conditions. 

Trevor has been serving patients around New England since 2014 and has trained under many experienced providers, including Optima’s board-certified dermatologists Dr. Ryan Karmouta, Dr. Molly Cowdrey, and Dr. Jennifer Stead.

Trevor completed his Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Science from the University of New Hampshire. After working in the research field, Trevor went on to complete his Accelerated BS in Nursing from Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences University (MCPHS). Trevor continued on to complete his Master of Science in Nursing from Carson-Newman University. Trevor is a member of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners, the Society of Dermatology Nurse Practitioners, and the Dermatology Nurses’ Association.

Adding to Trevor’s experience is the time he spent as a registered nurse in the emergency room, clinical site lead, and certified dermatology technician (CDT).

Blending Expertise, Compassion, and a Personalized Approach

Trevor applies his years of medical and dermatological experience to every patient interaction, delivering the highest level of care and compassion. 

His approach to patient care mirrors Optima Dermatology’s overall mission: to treat every patient like they are our family. 

We recently had the opportunity to learn more about Trevor, his approach, and the path that led him to become a board-certified nurse practitioner.

---

Where did you go to college?

I went to the University of New Hampshire for my undergraduate degree in Biomedical Science. After working at a dermatology practice as a scribe and medical assistant for many years, I decided to go back to school to become a registered nurse at MCPHS University. I worked in the emergency room for years and decided to advance my career and become a nurse practitioner, pursuing my Masters at Carson-Newman University.

What made you decide to pursue a career in dermatology? What did the path to get there look like?

After my undergraduate degree, I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do next. I worked in the research field as a research assistant, but I quickly missed interacting with other people. When I was working as a medical assistant and scribe, I appreciated the opportunity to work with patients and immerse myself in the medical field. It didn’t take long for me to fall in love with dermatology. I worked as a scribe and medical assistant for many years before I decided to go on to get my nursing degree.

Going into nursing school I was confident I would want to continue for my NP, but I really wanted to work at the bedside as a nurse first. I loved the fast-paced environment of the emergency department and caring for the sick, emergent critical patients on their worst days. It was a privilege to do for so many years, but it wasn’t my passion.

I have been working in dermatology in some fashion since November 2014, and over time I have deepened my understanding of dermatology through working with many experienced providers. During my time in the emergency room and through NP school, I kept working in dermatology as a nurse. I opened Optima’s Salem, New Hampshire clinic in September 2022, and I have loved watching our team grow! I’m honored to have held so many different roles within dermatology and to now be practicing as an NP.

What are your favorite aspects of dermatology?

I love being able to visualize the skin and provide care to all ages! There are several facets to dermatology, including medical, surgical, and cosmetic. There is so much to learn and a lot of skills to master. Treating chronic conditions can be frustrating for patients but going alongside them and seeing their results is an amazing process to be a part of!

On your journey to becoming a board-certified nurse practitioner, what was the best advice you were given?

Have a goal in mind and continuously remind yourself of it. The healthcare system is full of interdisciplinary members and it’s imperative to work as a team to care for patients. We all bring value and importance to caring for patients.

What is your number one tip when it comes to taking care of your skin?

Protect your skin from sun damage as early as possible! There are so many easy options to minimize sun exposure, including shade, sunscreens, and UPF clothing. Find a sunscreen product that you like, and wear it daily! Make it a part of your daily regimen. Enjoy your life and try to protect your skin along the way.

How would you describe your approach to treating patients?

I like to work alongside my patients. When I see patients in the office I like to ask, “What would make you the most comfortable?” or “What do you think?”  I can offer various treatments and other therapies but ultimately it is the patient’s decision. I want to educate and empower my patients with their options to help them feel comfortable in their skin. Whether it is a lesion that concerns them or an extensive rash, I want to come together with my patients and make them as comfortable as possible in their skin and pursue options that best fit their goals.

What do you like to do when you are not in the office?

I love working out, getting fit, and staying active! You’ll find me spending time with my family and friends. I love being at the beach (with lots of sunscreen of course) and adventuring around the fun restaurants and places in New England.

---

What to Expect From Dermatological Care Delivered by Trevor and His Team

If you’re seeking dermatological care, no matter how routine or complex, Trevor and his team at Optima Dermatology offer exceptional services and have the advanced training and experience to ensure the highest quality of care. 

Trevor is currently accepting new patients at our Salem and Stratham, NH, locations. Request an appointment online or give us a call at 603-942-2020.

On January 12th, Dr. Gregory Delost from Optima Dermatology’s Mentor location, sat down with New Day Cleveland to discuss the signs, symptoms, and when to seek treatment for hidradenitis suppurativa (HS). Many people have never heard of hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) and end up living with it for years before being properly diagnosed.  HS is a skin condition that causes painful lumps deep in your skin and can occur at different levels of severity. Our team at Optima Dermatology is here to help, and our providers will create a treatment plan tailored to your needs!

Guidelines to Follow, Products and Treatments to Use – and What to Leave Behind

We’re back with another Derm Deep Dive, a series where we provide expert advice from one of our board-certified dermatologists about a specific topic in skin care. For this edition, we’re speaking with Dr. Daniel Cuozzo, DO, FAAD, about skin care guidelines and trends to bring into 2024 – and what to leave behind in 2023.

Dr. Cuozzo, who serves patients at our Scarborough, ME practice, was recently interviewed on this topic by Maine news station WGME 13 for its Ask the Expert segment. You can watch the complete interview here!

Skin Care Guidelines You Should Follow in 2024

Although we’re talking about trends, two approaches to skin care never go out of style and should be viewed as more routine practices than trends. 

There are also two new trends that you may consider exploring in 2024. 

A Skin Care Trend to Leave Behind 

We’ve all heard the term “New Year, New You” – well, here is one trend that shouldn’t be included in your “new you” approach to skin care. 

Nasal Tanning Spray

If you haven’t heard of this trend, don’t worry – I’m not recommending it to any of my patients. The primary ingredient in nasal tanning spray, Melanotan II, is intended to help trigger a temporary darkening of the skin when this product is inhaled. However, it is a synthetic ingredient and is not FDA-approved and unregulated, so it has the potential to be dangerous to your health.

---

If you have concerns about your skin or want to discuss the best approach to your skincare, I’d love to meet with you. If you live in the greater Portland, Maine area, schedule an appointment with me at Optima Dermatology’s Scarborough, ME practice for an initial consultation and to get started on a path to healthier, happier skin. 

We welcome Double Board-Certified and Fellowship-Trained Mohs Surgeon Dr. Brienne Cressey to Our Stratham, NH Practice

Optima Dermatology is pleased to announce the addition of Dr. Brienne Cressey MD, MBA, FAAD, FACMS, to our Stratham, NH practice. Dr. Cressey will offer expert Mohs Micrographic Surgery and medical aesthetics treatments to the Seacoast region.

Dr. Cressey has been serving patients in the Seacoast region of New Hampshire since 2017, and has performed more than 8,000 Mohs Micrographic procedures. She has also provided medical aesthetics treatments, including VBeam ®, Fraxel®, and Halo® Hybrid Fractional Laser.

After receiving her MBA with a focus on healthcare management from Brandeis University, Dr. Cressey continued on an educational path aimed at dermatological studies. She graduated from Tufts University School of Medicine with highest honors, and completed her residency in dermatology at New York Presbyterian Weill Cornell, where she was named Chief Resident and received multiple awards, including the Derm Mentor Resident of Distinction award. 

As a Dermatologic Oncology Fellow at Dermatology Professionals in Rhode Island, Dr. Cressey worked under Dr. Nathaniel Jellinek to complete her Fellowship in Mohs Micrographic Surgery, facial reconstruction, and lasers and cosmetics. 

Dr. Cressey is currently a member of the American College of Mohs Surgery, the American Academy of Dermatology, and the American Society of Dermatologic Surgery. She has authored more than 25 peer-reviewed articles in major academic journals, including the Journal of Surgical Education and the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. 

A Perfect Combination of Expertise and Care

Dr. Cressey brings well-earned knowledge and expertise in Mohs Micrographic surgery and a range of dermatological services, and delivers these skills with the highest level of care and compassion. 

Her approach to patient care is perfectly aligned with Optima Dermatology’s overall mission: to treat every patient like we would our family. 

We recently had the opportunity to learn more about Dr. Cressey, her approach, and the path that led her to become a double board-certified Mohs Surgeon and Dermatologist.

---

Where did you go to college?

University of Maine, where I studied Biochemistry and Chemistry. I then went to Tufts University for medical school.

What made you decide to pursue a career in dermatology and Mohs surgery specifically?

I always enjoyed the complexity of dermatology and the procedural portion of the field. I’m able to combine Mohs surgery with my favorite aspects of medicine.

What can patients expect from Mohs surgery treatment? What advice would you share with a nervous patient?

Mohs surgery provides the best clearance rate for skin cancer. I aim to keep my patients informed and comfortable during the procedure. My team and I want to make it as positive of an experience as possible.

What is your number one tip when it comes to taking care of your skin?

Sunscreen and sun-protective clothing!

If there is one thing you want your patients to know about you, what would it be?

I am originally from Maine and love being able to provide Mohs surgery and reconstruction for my patients in New England. I’m happy to offer great care close to home.

What is your favorite aspect of being a micrographic dermatologic surgeon?

I love getting to know my patients and hearing their life stories. I have many repeat patients whom I’ve gotten to know well over the years and whom I love to see.

What is your approach to treating your patients?

I treat my patients how I would want my family and friends to be treated. I want all my patients to have a good experience and be happy with their care.

What do you like to do when you are not in the office treating patients?

I like to spend time with my husband and daughter. We love the New Hampshire outdoors and spend time swimming, fishing, or cross-country skiing at the lake whenever possible.

---

What to Expect From Medical and Surgical Care From Dr. Cressey and the Stratham Team

If you’re seeking dermatological care, no matter how routine or complex, Dr. Cressey and her team at Optima Dermatology offer exceptional services and have the advanced training and experience to ensure the highest quality of care. 

Dr. Cressey is currently accepting new patients at our Stratham, NH practice.. For Mohs referrals, email referral@optimadirect.md or call (603) 699-9001. For all other services, you can request an appointment online or give us a call at (603) 942-2171.

On December 8th, Dr. Gregory Delost from Optima Dermatology’s Mentor location, sat down with New Day Cleveland to discuss skin cancer. While skin cancer is usually visible, it often goes undetected, leading to annual increases in skin cancer diagnoses. Early detection of skin cancer is key to making treatment more effective, and Optima Dermatology is here to help!