With irregular abundance of melanin pigments induced by chronic UV exposure, face, hands, neck and chest areas will begin to develop darker/darkened discolored areas that may appears as sun spots (solar lentigines), darkened freckles (darkened ephelides), and/or mottled/blotchy pigmentation. While all skin types are susceptible to hyperpigmentation, the condition is more evident in lighter skin types.

In a similar vein to the underlying mechanics of hyperpigmentation, areas of melanin deficiency due to uneven supply result in lighter/lightened discolored areas of the skin relative to base complexion giving rise to hypopigmentation. While all skin types are susceptible to hypopigmentation, the condition is more evident in darker skin types.

The outermost skin layer (stratum corenum) is a vital barrier comprised of dead skin cells (corneocyets)  that are continuously shed/peeled (desquamation) and replenished by previously live cells (keratinocyets) that have migrated outward from an inner basal skin layer.  In young, healthy skin this epidermal renewal process (keratinocyte maturation and desquamation) typically takes about one month for an individual cell.

Chronic UV radiation severely hinders and disrupts the regenerative renewal cycle leading to dry, rough and thick, and poorly reflective/dull skin that typically exhibits a sallow (yellow-gray) discoloration.

Acne scars are a result of the body’s natural tendency to repair the acne, however the type and amount of scarring tissue is governed by individual’s body’s unique response.  Either depressed or raised scars can form. In case of the former, if there is a loss of tissue, scars form and appear as skin indentation or pits, while in case of the latter, oversupply of collagen (a key protein responsible for skin structure and elasticity) during repairs leads to raised scars. In both outcomes, several treatments may be suitable.

Natural aging and more often than not, prolonged sun exposure, degrade and weaken our body’s natural supply of structural proteins like collagen and elastin and water retaining substances like hyaluronic acid that are found and synthesized in our skin. These constituents are responsible for many aspects of healthy and youthful skin and without adequate amounts, many old-age appearance conditions ensue.

Thin and dry lips are a direct result of collagen deficit, one of several naturally occurring proteins that provide structure, elasticity and volume to areas such as the lips.

Incorporating collagen-rich supplements in your diet is one avenue to combat this dilemma, however, impactful and relatively immediate solution is to consider dermal filler injections (aka lip fillers).

Primary focal hyperhidrosis is a condition of overactive sweat glands triggered by nerves despite absence of physical activity or elevated temperatures. Situational stress, anxiousness or nervousness may compound this reaction. Commonly effected areas are excessively sweaty palms, underarms, soles of feet.

Neuromodulators, indeed Botox and the like, not only treat dynamic wrinkles but are also quite effective in suppressing this condition.

Quite simply excessive or unwanted hair in areas such as underarms, back, chest and legs. Many options exists, however laser technology offers long-term and relatively painless results over several treatment sessions.

Body art in the form of tattoos can certainly exude a bold and lasting statement and impressions of self-expression. Depending on the complexity and size, attaining a tattoo is relatively easy and not overly expensive. However, there may come a time where that statement piece(s) is no longer desired or accepted. Specialized laser equipment and procedure can greatly aid in erasing the ink and restoring your body/skin to its native appearance over several treatment sessions.

Stretch marks are benign cosmetic irregularities but often time make for a very unpleasant appearance, especially if the area is exposed to view. They arise due to hasty skin expansion, exceeding the skin’s elastic properties and repair rate, and can be found on several areas of the body: abdomen, breasts, hips, buttocks, upper underarms, etc. Several factors determine susceptibility and severity of stretch marks. Hereditary inheritance plays a contributing role for most but women are more prone to observe them especially during pregnancy. Rapid growth during adolescent years, rapid weight changes or excess levels of stress hormone cortisol have been found responsible to cause stretch marks as well. Additionally, if you are weightlifting for muscle gain employing anabolic steroids, stretch marks are surety to appear as well.

Treatment options range from OTC topical creams to aesthetic procedures focused on going skin deep. In case of the latter, therapies targeting skin rejuvenation, specifically collagen and elastin fiber remodeling are most effective.