Patients Can Begin Treatment Sooner

We’re excited to announce the launch of our in-house dermatopathology laboratory in Portsmouth, NH, which will provide a more standardized process for interpreting patient tests.

Staffed with a team of expert, board-certified dermatopathologists and histotechnologists, our new dermatopathology laboratory will deliver test results to patients within 24-48 hours, meaning necessary treatment can begin sooner.

Elevated Patient Care, Close to Home

Our dermatopathology laboratory conducts all test reading and interpretation in-house. Patients will not need to visit the lab and can continue to visit their dermatologist at their local practice.

Board-certified dermatopathologists Karen Nguyen Wu, MD, FCAP, and Ian Rosenthal, MD, PhD, will lead the dermatopathology laboratory, working with a team of histotechnologists responsible for preparing and interpreting test slides for all Optima Dermatology locations and Optima’s partner practices that include the Dermatology Center of Indiana, Advanced Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center, and the Indiana Skin Cancer Center.

Dr. Wu has been providing dermatopathology services in New Hampshire since 2013. She earned her Doctor of Medicine degree at Drexel University College of Medicine and went on to complete her residency in anatomic and clinical pathology at Thomas Jefferson University. She also completed an oncologic surgical pathology fellowship at Fox Chase Cancer Center, as well as a dermatopathology fellowship at Ackerman Academy of Dermatopathology. She holds board certifications in anatomic pathology, clinical pathology, and dermatopathology, and is a professional member of the American Academy of Dermatology, the American Society of Dermatopathology, the International Society of Dermatopathology, and the College of American Pathologists. Dr. Wu was named Castle Connolly Top Pathologist in New Hampshire magazine in 2022 and 2023, and she has authored over 10 dermatopathology publications.

Dr. Rosenthal has been practicing dermatopathology since 2015. He earned his medical degree at The Johns Hopkins University, where he also completed his residency in anatomic pathology. Dr. Rosenthal also completed a fellowship in dermatopathology at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center and New York Presbyterian Hospital-Weill Cornell Medical College. Dr. Rosenthal received his PhD from The Johns Hopkins University and is a member of the American Society of Dermatology. He holds board certifications in anatomic pathology, as well as dermatopathology.

Dr. Wu, Dr. Rosenthal, and their team will be working directly with Optima’s dermatologists and referring physicians to accurately diagnose skin cancer. This state-of-the-art dermatopathology laboratory enables test results within 24-48 hours, so patients can proceed with their treatment plans sooner. A potential skin cancer diagnosis can be stressful, and we are proud to be able to deliver results faster and start treatment plans sooner. The in-house dermatopathology laboratory further enhances the patient’s experience and demonstrates our commitment to treating each and every patient as we would want our friends and family to be treated.

The dermatopathology laboratory officially opened in Portsmouth, NH on May 1, 2023. If you’d like to learn more about the lab or inquire about making an appointment at one of our offices, please visit optimadermatology.com.

June is Acne Awareness month, so we’re talking with Board-Certified Dermatologist, Dr. Gregory Delost, who serves the Cleveland region, about acne scarring. Acne scarring is one of the most sensitive issues with skincare and often impacts mental health and self-esteem. Early, aggressive, and effective treatment is the best way to minimize and prevent acne scarring. We’re here to help with the understanding of scars and how to work towards healing them.

Before we jump into treatment options, let’s learn more about acne scars and how they are classified.

How are acne scars classified?

Acne scars are classified based on their appearance during an examination with your dermatologist. They can be depressed (atrophic scars) or raised (hypertrophic scars/keloids).

Atrophic scars are the most common. They are caused by the destruction of collagen, and present as indentations.

Atrophic scars can be classified into three categories: ice pick, rolling, and boxcar scars.

• Ice pick scars are wider at the top of the skin and taper as they go deeper.
• Rolling scars are shallower than ice pick scars. They have a wavy surface due to abnormal collagen attachment.
• Boxcar scars are typically round or oval shaped dimples that can either be shallow (less than 0.5mm) or deep (more than 0.5mm).

Hypertrophic scars and keloids are less common. Both are thick, raised scars. Hypertrophic scars stay within the margin of the initial wound whereas keloids spread beyond the margin of the initial wound.

How are acne scars treated?

The ideal way to treat acne scars is a three-step approach, consisting of an initial treatment phase, a collagen remodeling procedure, and finally any additional treatments to address resistant scars and to supplement results of previous procedures.

Step 1: An initial treatment phase.

The initial treatment phase is focused on treating redness, and to treat individual scars that may be resistant to collagen remodeling procedures. Treating redness is important as the redness accentuates the scar and makes it more noticeable.

To target redness, VBEAM®, Forever Young BBL™ and Forever Clear BBL™ are great treatment options available. Typically, three to four treatments spaced out every month are necessary for optimal results.

To treat individual scars that may be resistant to other treatments, typically a surgical approach is preferred. Ice pick and narrow boxcar scars respond to the chemical reconstruction of skin scars technique (CROSS technique) where a high-strength (90-100%) trichloroacetic acid (TCA) peel solution is placed at the base of scars with the goal to promote dermal remodeling. Rolling acne scars are typically treated with subcision, a procedure in which a small needle is inserted under an acne scar with the goal of releasing the fibrosis tissue that teethers the scar and causes the depression.

Finally, another option to treat difficult ice pick and boxcar scars is to surgically remove them by punch biopsy.

Step 2: A collagen remodeling procedure.

This phase of treatment consists of procedures that induce collagen growth. Examples of treatments that can induce collagen growth include the HALO® Hybrid Fractional Laser, chemical peels, and microneedling with platelet-rich plasms (PRP).

Step 3: Additional treatments to address resistant scars and to supplement results of previous procedures.

After step 2 is complete, it is important to assess treatment response and determine if any other procedure would be beneficial. Possible treatment options during this phase include all of the previously mentioned treatments, along with injectable dermal fillers.

Dermal fillers are particularly helpful for broad, rolling scars. Ice pick scars and other tethered scars typically do not respond well to fillers.

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At Optima Dermatology & Medical Aesthetics, our board-certified dermatologists and expert providers will work with you to identify the right treatments and help establish lifestyle changes that can promote clearer skin. We are accepting new patients – find your nearest location and schedule an appointment today to begin a healthier approach to skincare!

In Boardman, Ohio Optima Research is leading groundbreaking research and advancements in the dermatological field. Board-certfied Dermatologist and Principal Investigator, Dr. Patrick Shannon, recently spoke with Dave Sess of First News to discuss clinical trials and what to expect. Check out this feature to learn more!

May is National Skin Cancer Awareness Month, and Dr. Gregory Delost of our Mentor, Ohio location sat down with David Moss of New Day Cleveland to share information on the importance of early detection, prevention, and practicing safe sun. Check out the full interview to learn more about annual full body skin exams and practicing sun safety as we head into the summer.

Skin cancer prevention should be top-of-mind year-round, but during the month of May, which is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, we put extra emphasis on the importance of prevention, early detection, and treatment.

The Importance of Skin Cancer Prevention 

We all may be aware of skin cancer, but it’s the preventive steps that are critical to helping minimize your chances of getting skin cancer. One of the most important prevention methods is actually quite simple – properly protecting your skin from the sun’s harmful rays.

9,500 people in the U.S. are estimated to be diagnosed with skin cancer every day. Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the U.S., and rates are only increasing, especially among women and individuals under the age of 40.

Repeated exposure to the sun’s UV rays impact the skin and its connective tissue over time, heightening the potential for skin issues like sun spots and wrinkles and lines. However, extended sun exposure can also damage the DNA within your skin cells, causing those cells to grow and divide rapidly. This growth can create a buildup of extra cells that become tumors, which can be cancerous. 

3 million Americans are diagnosed each year with nonmelanoma skin cancer. This type of cancer is the most common and includes ​​basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma.

1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer during their lifetime. Anyone at any age can be diagnosed with skin cancer and should take precautions to prevent or identify skin cancer.

Early detection is key, but just as important is prevention.

Our Expert Dermatologists Provide Their Favorite Sun Protection Product Recommendations

If you’ve ever had a sunburn, you know the more immediate consequences of failing to properly protect your skin from the sun. But even if you don’t end up with a sunburn, the sun is still causing incremental skin damage over time. If you go out in the sun every day for 5 years, but only use sunscreen once in a while, all of those unprotected exposures can impact the skin over that time.

The reality is, you don’t have to be on a beach to need sunscreen. Our skin is exposed to the sun all year long, especially the face, and should always be protected.

Here are some sun protection recommendations from our expert team of dermatologists and providers:

Meredith Reimer, MD (Macedonia, OH) – EltaMD® sunscreens and COLORESCIENCE® Sunforgettable Brush

I love EltaMD® sunscreens and the COLORESCIENCE® Sunforgettable Brush. I tell patients the best sunscreen is one that you like (or love) and that’s easy to wear so you can wear it everyday!”

Holly Morris, MSHS, PA-C (Scarborough, ME) – Revision® Intellishade® Clear

Sunscreen is important year-round, and Revision® Intellishade® Clear has antiaging and sunscreen benefits all in one. You get the protection of a sunscreen with the feel of a medical-grade moisturizer!

Brennen Barnett, MS, MSPAS, PA-C (Macedonia, OH) – Coolibar®

I always like Coolibar® products. Their clothing items make UV protection easy during the day!

Amy Polster, MD (Macedonia, OH) – Solumbra® and Coolibar®

Sun protective clothing and hats are very helpful for sun protection. There are lots of reliable brands nowadays such as Solumbra® and Coolibar®.

Shelley Plescia (Macedonia, OH) – EltaMD® UV Glow, EltaMD® UV Restore & COLORESCIENCE® Sunforgettable Brush

I love EltaMD® UV Glow and EltaMD® UV Restore since they contain physical ingredients. COLORESCIENCE® Sunforgettable Brush is another favorite because it is mineral based, contains physical ingredients and water resistant for 80 minutes!

Other Tips for Sun Protection

Our dermatologists and providers also have a few tips to help you master your sunscreen regimen and protect your skin from sun damage.

• Use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 50 for extended sun exposure, and reapply every two hours.
• Wear a daily moisturizer with an SPF of at least 30. Most facial moisturizers only offer an SPF of 15, which offers some protection but not quite enough. 
• Apply a lip balm or lip moisturizer with SPF.
• Keep sunblock and an SPF moisturizer in your car/bag/purse for easy access when you need it. 
• Don’t forget about your neck, arms, hands, and legs! Depending on the season, the weather, and your activity, any exposed skin should be protected. 

It’s never too late to start focusing on daily sun protection and skin cancer prevention, but if you have concerns about your skin from previous sun exposures, the best thing to do is meet with your local dermatologist for a skin check and to discuss any concerns you may have.

Think of Every Month As Skin Cancer Awareness Month

When it comes to skin cancer, awareness is crucial as it fosters preventive habits and early detection, enhancing the success rates for treatment. Schedule an appointment at Optima Dermatology in Macedonia, OH, or in Scarborough, ME for a skin check, to address your questions and concerns, and to embark on a healthier approach to skin care!

On April 12, 2023 our wonderful team of Dermatologists and Providers in Mentor, Ohio hosted their first Cosmetic Open House. The event offered exclusive special offers on medical aesthetic treatments, raffles, giveaways, music, food and refreshments!

Additionally, attendees had the opportunity to consult with our expert providers to learn more about the many devices and treatments offered at Optima Dermatology.

We were thrilled with such a successful turnout, and the team enjoyed having the opportunity to meet and get to know all who joined us! A special shout out to DJ Nicnac, Lashon’s Catering and Event Level Events, and all of our hard working Mentor team members for making this event such a success. We look forward to more in the future!

Be Warm-Weather Ready with Our Medical Aesthetics Services 

Warm summer days are right around the corner! If you’re looking for overall skin rejuvenation, body contouring, laser hair removal, or a solution for excessive sweating we’re here to help!  

At Optima Dermatology & Medical Aesthetics, we offer a comprehensive range of the most effective treatment options designed to achieve measurable results.  

We recently had the chance to talk with our expert Medical Aesthetics Provider, Amanda Holesko, MSN, FNP-C, at the Mentor, OH location, about her 4 favorite cosmetic treatments to get ‘summer ready’. 

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Forever Bare BBL® Laser Hair Removal  

Let us take shaving off your hands. Forever Bare BBL® delivers safe doses of energy, heat, and light to target the hair follicle and cause permanent hair removal in the area(s) treated. We can treat any area of unwanted hair growth – most commonly treating the upper lip, underarms, bikini line, and legs. Depending on the color and thickness of the hair, multiple treatments may be needed for complete hair removal. Each session will lighten and thin the hair, until ultimately the hair is completely gone. Most patients describe this procedure as ‘easy’ and rate the pain about 1-2/10 on the pain scale. Pricing for this treatment depends on area(s) treated. Patients receive a 10% discount when purchasing a package of 3 treatments. 

CoolSculpting® 

You’ve been working on your ‘summer body’ all winter but you still have a few stubborn areas of fat – now it’s time for CoolSculpting®. CoolSculpting® uses a technology called ‘Cryolipolysis’ to permanently freeze off stubborn fat in areas such as the double chin, love handles, back rolls, and stubborn abdominal fat. Other areas of treatment include the arms, inner and outer thighs, bra fat, and ‘banana roll’ underneath the buttocks.  

This treatment can be done every 4 weeks and typically requires 2 treatments for good results. Pain is very minimal for this treatment as the machine cools the area of treatment to numbing.  

Post-treatment soreness may occur, however, it has also been described as minimal and rated about 2/10 on the pain scale. For the month of April, we are offering a ‘Buy 4 Get 4’ special! If you purchase 4 treatments of CoolSculpting® (which could mean 2 back rolls and 2 love handles) you will receive 4 more treatments for free! 

Sculptra® Injections for Buttock Augmentation  

Sculptra® is one of my personal favorite products we currently have on the market. This treatment is a safe and effective alternative to surgical Brazilian Butt Lift and works as a collagen stimulator to increase volume in the area(s) treated.  

Sculptra® is commonly injected into the cheeks, temples, and jawline to build collagen and restore lost volume. Just like it works in the face, it also works in the buttocks to build volume and create lift and shape. This treatment can also minimize the appearance of stretch marks and cellulite in the treated area.  

Sculptra® injections are extremely safe and require NO downtime, making it an amazing alternative to surgery. Injections can be done in the office after topical numbing cream is applied. Patients will typically rate the pain about 4/10 for this procedure and report mild bruising to the treatment area after. Results can be seen as soon as 4 weeks after treatment and continue to improve over the next 6 months.  

Once the volume desired is achieved, results can last up to 5 years. Pricing for this treatment depends on the size of the treatment area and the overall patient goal. Typically, 3-5 vials are used per side and patients receive discounts of up to $120 off per vial! 

Botox® Injections for Underarm Sweating 

If you are someone who avoids t-shirts in the summer because of obvious armpit sweating, this treatment might be for you. Botox® (or Dysport®) can be injected into the underarms to block the signals that tell your body to sweat. Results are typically seen in 2 weeks and last about 6 months!  

The treatment is quick, safe, and effective. We typically use about 100 units of Botox® or 300 units of Dysport® with a dilution specific to use on the body. For this treatment, patients receive a discount of $4 off per Botox® unit!  

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We look forward to seeing you for a consultation on these summer treatments!  

Request an appointment and schedule your consultation with one of our highly trained and specialized medical aesthetic providers near you to learn more and develop your custom treatment plan for getting ready for summer! Alternatively, you can meet with Amanda Holesko, MSN, FNP-C, who serves the Greater Cleveland area.

Optima Dermatology Welcomes Dr. Troxell’s Medical and Surgical Dermatology Expertise to Our New Bloomington, IN Practice

Board-Certified Dermatologist, Todd Troxell, DO, FAOCD, joins our newest practice in Bloomington, IN to provide medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology services. Since 2018, Dr. Troxell has been treating patients aged one year and older for a range of skin conditions.

Dr. Troxell earned his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree and completed his Fellowship in Medical Education at A.T. Still University. He then completed his dermatology residency at Northeast Regional Medical Center in Kirksville, MO, and his internship training at Beaumont Hospital in Trenton, MI. Dr. Troxell currently serves on the Board of Directors of the Kirksville Osteopathic Alumni Association. 

In 2017, Dr. Troxell was awarded the Platinum TOUCH community service award, as well as the Student Doctor of the Year award. He has also peer-reviewed numerous dermatology articles and abstracts. Dr. Troxell offers a variety of medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology treatments for patients of all ages, including general dermatology such as skin cancer, eczema, acne, psoriasis, and others, as well as medical aesthetic services, including neurotoxin injections (such as Botox®).

Dedicated to a High Quality of Care 

Dr. Troxell not only delivers compassionate and expert patient care, but he is also committed to giving back to the community through his work. 

As a medical student, Dr. Troxell founded the Still Caring Health Connection Clinic, a free clinic for the underserved run by fellow medical students.

Over the last decade, Dr. Troxell has embarked on several international medical outreach trips that brought him to Honduras, Vietnam, Nicaragua, and Haiti. A man of many talents, he also holds a first-degree black belt in Kenpo Karate and is certified in scuba diving search and rescue by the Professional Association of Diving Instructors.  

We recently had the opportunity to learn more about Dr. Todd Troxell, his approach, and the path that led him to pursue becoming a board-certified dermatologist.

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Where did you go to college?

I completed my undergraduate degree at the University of Cincinnati. During undergrad, I headed the Forensic Psychology Lab, volunteered at Children’s Hospital, and studied abroad in Nantes, France.

What made you decide to pursue a career in dermatology?

Dermatology excites me because it is mainly visual (diagnosing) and hands-on (surgical). Additionally, throughout many international medical trips, I witnessed firsthand the overwhelming need for dermatology services worldwide. I saw a unique opportunity, through dermatology, to positively impact community health in underserved areas within the US and internationally.

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

Protect yourself from the sun and moisturize daily.

What is your favorite aspect of being a dermatologist?

I enjoy meeting a wide variety of people and working with them to improve their health and self-esteem.

How would you describe your approach to treating patients?

Teamwork. We make the most progress by working together. Any doctor can find sickness, but it takes the patient and doctor working together, as a team, to maximize health.

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

I will listen to you and treat you the same as I would my family.

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

I enjoy getting out in nature and being active. For me, nature is grounding and inspiring.

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What to Expect From Dermatological Care From Dr. Troxell and His Team

If you’re seeking medical or surgical dermatological care, Dr. Troxell and his team at Optima Dermatology offer a wide range of services and have advanced training and experience to ensure the highest quality of care. 
View a complete list of our dermatology services and give us a call at 812-226-8315 to schedule an appointment today! Dr. Troxell is accepting new patients at the Bloomington, IN location.

In 2019, roughly 10% of those seeking non-surgical aesthetic procedures were males.  There is also a robust interest in male cosmetics in the millennial generation, which will only increase as they continue to age. Until recently, the rate-limiting factor was probably lack of education, but now, even males are becoming more and more educated about cosmetics. From our Mentor, OH practice, we recently spoke with Dr. Gregory Delost and Medical Aesthetics Provider, Amanda Holesko, MSN, FNP-C to learn more about cosmetic treatment options for men. 

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What motivates men to try cosmetics? 

“Everyone tells me that I look tired.” One study found that men appear about one-third year older than their age, compared to females who were found to be about half a year younger. However, men typically do not pursue cosmetics to try to look younger and chase the fountain of youth. Rather, men are just happy to look their age, looking refreshed after a good night of sleep. 

What are the top areas that men are concerned about? 

The top three areas that men are most concerned about are the hairline, jawline, and eyes. Specifically, men tend to care more about crow’s feet, tear troughs, double chin, and forehead lines. Compare that to women who are more concerned about cheeks, nasolabial folds, and lips. 

Men tend to have a square facial shape with a prominent brow compared to females who tend to have more of a heart or triangular shape. These traditional anatomical differences can help explain why men are concerned about their eyes, hairline, and jawline whereas females are more motivated to treat their midface to maintain the heart shape.  

How is the initial consultation different for men? 

Men are less likely to ask questions and they also hate surprises, so it is really important to spend the extra time to create realistic expectations and foster trust and comfort.  

What about the hair? 

Hair loss continues to be the number one cosmetic concern for the aging male. After underlying medical conditions that can cause hair loss are ruled out, there are many treatment options including topical and oral medications, supplements, Keravive exfoliation treatments, and platelet rich plasma (PRP) injections that can improve the hairline. 

What is “Brotox”? 

We like to think of Brotox as a customized protocol of using neuromodulators (like Botox) to treat wrinkles for men. It is important to explain that neuromodulates only treat the “dynamic” wrinkles that occur with movement of the muscles of facial expression and not the “static” wrinkles present at rest.  

As men start to slowly age in their early thirties, a good time to start prophylactically would be the late twenties before the static wrinkles start to form.  

It is important to find a provider who is educated on the anatomical differences between men and women. It should be understood that men often require higher dose of neuromodulators and different injection patterns compared to females. Injection pattern matters because it could be the difference in creating an arched eyebrow, which is desirable in women versus a flatter, more desirable eyebrow in men. Finally, men should understand that the treatment typically lasts 3-4 months. 

How do I get a chiseled jawline? 

Aging is a multifactorial process that is seen in various different areas of the fat. Due to a decrease in skin elasticity, fat pad redistribution, and bone resorption we begin to lose the definition in our facial features. Specifically to the jawline, the mandibular angle changes due to sagging skin and loss of bone density in that area. Treatment options include dermal filler (such as Juvederm Volux or Restylane Lyft) to create jawline definition, injectable fat dissolving agents (such as Kybella) to get rid of that stubborn double chin, and cryotherapy (such as CoolSculpting) to freeze away jowls. 

Aren’t dermal fillers just for women? 

No! Dermal fillers when used in a gender appropriate fashion can be quite effective in treating areas that men hope to fix. Brotox is helpful with forehead and crows feet lines, but the additional of dermal fillers to places such as the tear troughs can be the final touch needed to combat the ‘tired look’. Placing filler into a male chin can give a stronger, square jawline to define the transition from chin to neck.  

What are cosmeceuticals and are men really open to using them? 

Cosmeceuticals are topical products that have bioactive ingredients, such as antioxidants, sunscreens, and other anti-aging molecules, that have both cosmetic and therapeutic effects.  Studies show that men are open to using them and it turns out that they may need them more than women. 

Earlier, we learned that men typically age worse than women. This may be due to the observation that men are more likely to smoke and less likely to wear sunscreen. Another recent study suggested that men may have a decreased antioxidant capacity.  Even scarier, a more recent study indicated that men have a worse prognosis when diagnosed with melanoma compared to females. 

Cosmeceuticals which can contain sunscreens and antioxidants like Vitamin C can be helpful to address these concerns. If a man isn’t willing to wear sunscreen, he is setting the treatment plan up for failure and I would be hesitant in recommending additional cosmetic treatments that could waste his money. 

While we can treat and correct concern areas such as forehead lines and lack of jawline definition – these in office treatments should be viewed as the ‘work out’ and the cosmeceutical use at home can be viewed as the ‘diet’. You will not have your best results if you are only focusing on one or the other.   

What can men do below the head and neck? 

CoolSculpting has emerged as a popular and effective treatment to target the stubborn fat that won’t go away with healthy diet and exercise in relatively fit patients, involving the neck, abdomen, flank (‘love handles’), and back. The treatment works by cryolipolysis, which is the freezing of body fat to break down fat cells, resulting in a reduction of body fat without damage to other tissues. The procedure is well-tolerated as it is quick, non-invasive, relatively painless, and there is no down time. After you have completed your series (at least 2 sessions), the results seen are permanent – meaning the fat in the areas treated will not return.  

At Optima, we have the CoolSculpting Elite machine – which uses the most recent, up to date technology and has the capability to treat two areas at one time, cutting overall treatment time in half. 

What deters men from cosmetics? 

Cost is probably the biggest factor for both men and women. However, men specifically are afraid of potential side effects and not looking natural. Most of the fears can be dispelled with extra time spent educating during the initial consultation.  

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Request an appointment to schedule your consultation with one of our highly trained and specialized medical aesthetic providers to learn more and develop your custom treatment plan.  Choose from experts like Dr. Gregory Delost or Amanda Holesko, MSN, FNP-C, both of whom serve the Greater Cleveland area, and take the first step towards exceptional care by booking your appointment today.

By Jonathan Phelps Union Leader Staff Mar 11, 2023 Updated Mar 12, 2023

New Hampshire’s rates of skin cancer are well above the national average, and the co-founder of ConvenientMD urgent care hopes to increase access to the care needed to help prevent it.

Max Puyanic partnered with Ben Collins, who served as chief growth officer at ConvenientMD, to open Optima Dermatology & Medical Aesthetics, which has been in the works since both left the company in 2020 to find solutions for shortages in dermatologists. More providers are retiring than graduating from residency programs.

“You have to wait longer to see a dermatologist than any other type of specialist,” Puyanic said. And the wait times continue to worsen.

Learn more about how Optima Dermatology & Medical Aesthetics is addressing New Hampshire’s high skin cancer rates and bridging the gap in dermatological care. Visit us to understand our mission and services. Visit us at one of our New Hampshire locations if you have any concerns.

Understanding Which Type of Eczema You Have, and How to Treat It

If you’ve been diagnosed with eczema, were you also told which of the types of eczema you have? Dr. Karmouta, MD, MBA, serving practices in both Salem and Stratham, NH, will provide you with comprehensive insights into the condition.

The word eczema can be used as a generic type of skin rash. There are actually multiple different types of eczema, and it’s important to know which type you have because they all have different symptoms, characteristics, and different approaches to treatment and management.

Starting With the Basics: What is Eczema?

Eczema is a very common, non-contagious skin condition that causes dry, itchy, red, and often bumpy patches on the skin. It can be quite uncomfortable but is manageable with the right treatment. 

Eczema, which is a type of dermatitis, is actually the name for a group of different conditions, and each manifest differently and can require different treatments. Eczema causes the skin to lose its ability to act as a barrier, which initiates an inflammatory response. Without the barrier function, your skin is left open to irritation, dryness, or infection.

What Are the Most Common Types of Eczema?

Because all dermatologists at Optima Dermatology are board-certified and committed to your care and best course of treatment, we won’t just diagnose you with eczema; we will tell you the specific type of eczema you have. Eczema manifests in different ways, and depending on which type you have, the best treatment for eczema can vary.

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Here Are 7 Types of Eczema:

Atopic Dermatitis (AD)

Atopic Dermatitis begins with itchy skin that forms a rash. It affects infants, children, and adults. In adults, AD often manifests on the hands or eyes as dry, scaly, or patchy areas. Common symptoms include itching, and raw, bleeding, or oozing skin. 

Contact Dermatitis

Caused by an irritant that comes in contact with your skin and triggers an itchy, rashy reaction. In some cases, the cause is as simple as the laundry detergent you’re using, but it can also be more difficult to know what you are coming in contact with that is irritating your skin.

Dyshidrotic Eczema

Also called pompholyx, this type of eczema causes tiny, highly itchy blisters on the hands and feet and can become chronic. The most effective treatment is identifying the allergen that is triggering the blisters.

Hand Eczema

Deep, painful cracks on the hands accompanied by excessively dry or chapped skin. It can lead to painful, bleeding blisters that are uncomfortable and hard to manage, and traditional hand creams and moisturizers do little to relieve the symptoms.

Neurodermatitis

Highly common among adults and tends to affect only one or two patches on the body, as opposed to other types of eczema that affect multiple areas at once. The cause of Neurodermatitis is unknown, but treatments are highly effective.

Nummular Eczema

Typically brought on by extremely dry skin, Nummular Eczema manifests as itchy, red bumps and can look similar to Atopic Dermatitis and Ringworm. Moisturizing treatments are the most helpful for preventing Nummular Eczema.

Stasis Dermatitis

Primarily affects the lower legs and feet, causing inflammation, swelling, itchiness, scaling, and hyperpigmentation. In some cases, ulceration occurs. Stasis Dermatitis is caused by chronic edema or swelling, and treatment is highly focused on a self-care routine.

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Which Types of Eczema are Most Common?

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is the most common type of eczema, affecting about 16.6 million U.S. adults, according to the National Eczema Foundation.

Contact dermatitis is also quite common, affecting about 1 in 5 people simply because it’s brought on by contact with an irritant. Think of how many potential irritants and allergens your skin comes in contact with on a daily basis. From a necklace chain to body wash, there is a high likelihood that something will cause a contact dermatitis reaction on your skin in your lifetime.

What Are the Different Treatment Options for Each Type of Eczema?

Although there are several different types of eczema, they are all treatable using a combination of medicated solutions and self-directed care, such as avoiding allergens and triggers.

Everyone is different, and eczema can affect different people in different ways, and with varying levels of severity. Only by working with your board-certified dermatologist can you identify a treatment plan that will appropriately address your specific type of eczema and symptoms.

I Think I Have Eczema – When Should I Seek Medical Treatment?

We recommend that anyone who is suffering from symptoms that appear to be eczema should seek medical treatment from a board-certified dermatologist. Even if the condition turns out to be another, similar, skin issue such as psoriasis, a medical examination is important to diagnosis and proper treatment.

Being seen by a dermatologist is also the best way to find out which type of eczema you have and begin the most appropriate treatment and management plan.

Even if your eczema symptoms aren’t disrupting your daily life or terribly bothersome, you can prevent worsening of symptoms by treating it as soon as possible. We are here to help!

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Taking the First Steps

Eczema can affect everyone differently, but all types of eczema are treatable using a combination of medicated treatment and self-directed care, such as adopting a healthy skincare routine and identifying and avoiding allergens and triggers.

Your first step in treating and managing eczema should be visiting your board-certified dermatologist to identify which type of eczema you have so you can become informed about how to keep it under control.

Request an appointment to discuss the best treatment plan for your eczema.