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What Are the Latest Advancements in Dermatological Treatments for Common Skin Conditions?

Dermatological Treatments by Sheperd Integrative Dermatology in Mount Pleasant SC

Dermatological conditions like rosacea, psoriasis, melasma, hyperhidrosis, alopecia, and eczema affect millions worldwide, impacting their appearance, confidence, and quality of life. Traditional treatments have offered varying degrees of success, but recent advancements in dermatological technology present new hope. Sheperd Integrative Dermatology introduces cutting-edge skincare treatments that offer minimal to no downtime, tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual’s skin. These innovations, including chemical peels, DiamondGlow™, Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP), and Vivace laser treatment, leverage the latest in medical research to address skin issues more effectively and gently than ever before.

Common Skin Conditions

These conditions, ranging from rosacea to eczema, present a spectrum of symptoms that affect the skin’s appearance and an individual’s overall well-being and self-perception. 

  1. Rosacea is a persistent skin disorder primarily affecting the face. It’s marked by redness, flushing, and visible blood vessels, often accompanied by acne-like pimples. The condition fluctuates in severity and can be mistaken for other skin issues. The exact causes of rosacea remain unclear, but it’s thought to involve an assortment of genetic and environmental factors.
  2. Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that accelerates the life cycle of skin cells, accumulating cells on the skin’s surface. This buildup causes scaling and thick, red patches that can be itchy or painful. Psoriasis patches can vary in severity, from minor localized patches to major body coverage. The condition is chronic and has no cure, with symptoms typically coming and going over time.
  3. Melasma is characterized by brown or grayish patches, primarily on the face. The condition is more common in women and is often associated with hormonal changes, such as pregnancy or contraceptive use. Melasma is believed to result from stimulating melanocytes, or pigment-producing cells, by estrogen and progesterone in combination with sun exposure.
  4. Excessive Sweating (Hyperhidrosis) involves overactive sweat glands, causing sweating that exceeds the body’s normal requirements for cooling. While it can affect any body part, it’s most common in the palms, soles, and underarms. The condition can be generalized or localized and is unrelated to heat or exercise.
  5. Hair Loss (Alopecia) encompasses various conditions characterized by the thinning or loss of hair. It can be temporary or permanent and may result from genetic factors, hormonal changes, medical conditions, or aging. Alopecia can manifest as a gradual thinning on top of the head, patchy bald spots, or complete baldness.
  6. Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis) is a common skin condition that causes the skin to become itchy, red, and inflamed. It’s most frequently seen in children but can affect individuals of any age. Eczema is chronic and can flare periodically. It’s associated with a hypersensitive immune response to various environmental triggers, leading to skin inflammation.

Advancements in Skin Care Treatments

The field of dermatology has witnessed significant advancements in skin care treatments, reflecting a blend of technological innovation and a deeper understanding of skin physiology. These developments offer new hope and possibilities for individuals seeking relief and solutions for various skin conditions.

  1. Chemical Peels have evolved considerably, becoming more sophisticated and customizable. Modern peels target specific skin concerns, such as fine lines, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, and acne scars, with varying penetration depths. This precision allows dermatologists to tailor treatments to the individual’s skin type and condition, minimizing risks and optimizing outcomes.
  2. DiamondGlow™ represents a leap forward in microdermabrasion techniques. Unlike traditional methods, DiamondGlow™ combines exfoliation with the simultaneous delivery of targeted skin serums, enhancing the treatment’s efficacy. This approach removes dead skin cells and nourishes the skin, promoting a healthier, more vibrant complexion.
  3. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy, once predominantly known in sports medicine, has found its place in dermatology, offering a natural approach to skin and hair rejuvenation. By using the patient’s own plasma, rich in growth factors, PRP therapy stimulates the skin’s healing processes, encouraging the production of collagen and elastin. This treatment has shown promising results in addressing signs of aging, promoting hair growth, and improving skin texture.
  4. Vivace combines microneedling with radiofrequency (RF) and LED light therapy, showcasing the power of combining modalities for enhanced results. This treatment stimulates collagen production through microneedling and tightens the skin with RF energy. LED light therapy reduces inflammation and accelerates healing, making Vivace a comprehensive solution for skin rejuvenation.

Which Treatments To Choose?

This decision-making process is deeply personal and varies significantly from one individual to another, influenced by specific skin concerns, lifestyle factors, and desired outcomes. 

Assess Your Skin Condition

The first step is a detailed assessment of your skin condition. This involves identifying the type of skin condition you have, its severity, and how it affects your daily life and well-being. Understanding the nature of your skin concern is crucial as it determines which treatments will likely be effective.

Consider Your Skin Type and Sensitivities

Each individual’s skin is unique, with its characteristics and sensitivities. Consider your skin type—whether oily, dry, combination, or sensitive—as this will influence how your skin may react to certain treatments. Knowing your skin’s tendencies helps in choosing a treatment that addresses the condition and harmonizes with your skin’s natural balance.

Evaluate Treatment Options

With advancements in dermatological care, there are now more treatment options available than ever before. The range of choices can be overwhelming, from minimally invasive procedures like chemical peels and DiamondGlow™ to natural approaches such as PRP therapy and comprehensive solutions like Vivace. Evaluating these options involves considering their effectiveness, potential side effects, recovery time, and cost.

Professional Consultation

A key step in the decision-making process is consulting with a dermatology professional. Dermatologists can offer expert insights into the treatments most suitable for your specific condition and skin type. They can also provide valuable information on what to expect during and after the treatment, helping to set realistic expectations.

Takeaway

At Sheperd Integrative Dermatology, we believe in a personalized approach to skincare, ensuring that each patient receives a treatment plan tailored specifically to their needs. Our expert team is here to guide you through the selection process, combining our deep understanding of skin physiology with the latest advancements in dermatological treatments. We invite you to schedule an appointment at Sheperd Integrative Dermatology in Mount Pleasant, SC. 

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Dana Aman

PA-C

Board Certified Physician Assistant

Dana is a board-certified Physician Assistant with Sheperd Integrative Dermatology.  Originally from Florida, Dana obtained her undergraduate degree from Florida State University and then went on to earn a Master’s in Physician Assistant Studies from North Greenville University in Greenville, South Carolina.  After obtaining her advanced degree, Dana completed a rigorous 6-month dermatology training program in California as well as a Diplomate Fellowship with the Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants.  After three years of specialized clinical dermatology practice in California, Dana moved to Charleston in 2023.  Dana’s patient care philosophy centers around active listening and shared decision-making. She believes that every patient should be an active participant in their healthcare journey and looks forward to establishing positive patient relationships at Sheperd Integrative Dermatology. 

Margaret Gierhart

LE

Margaret, a South Carolina native, is a Licensed Esthetician and makeup artist with over 20 years of experience in the beauty industry. She earned a BA in Psychology from the University of South Carolina. She began her career in beauty as the resident makeup artist for Bobbie Brown cosmetics at Saks Fifth Avenue in Charleston. In order to expand her knowledge, she earned her degree in esthetics from Trident Technical College, graduating with honors. She joined the Sheperd Integrative Dermatology staff in 2014 and is certified in a wide array of cosmetic procedures and skin care products. Her offerings include laser skin resurfacing, IPL, micro-needling, chemical peels, radio frequency, laser hair removal, and body contouring. Her background in both psychology and artistry gives her a deep capacity to care for patients and understand what makes them feel beautiful. A mother of two daughters, Margaret understands beauty as not only external appearance, but also as a manifestation of the inner qualities of kindness, generosity, and well-being.

Amy Jetter

BSN, RN

Amy brings her whole heart to her role on the Sheperd cosmetic team.  A graduate of Elon College and the Medical College of Virginia, Amy has been a board-certified nurse for over 30 years.  Bringing her skills as an ICU nurse into her role in cosmetic patient care, Amy provides a warm, reassuring presence to all her clients, listening to their concerns and collaborating with them in a plan to bring forth and enhance their natural beauty.  A standing member of the American Association of Plastic Surgery Nurses and a past RN trainer in cosmetic and aesthetic procedures, Amy offers all types of laser treatments, botox and dermal filler injections, and chemical peels.

Amy Jetter

BSN, RN

Amy brings her whole heart to her role on the Sheperd cosmetic team.  A graduate of Elon College and the Medical College of Virginia, Amy has been a board-certified nurse for over 30 years.  Bringing her skills as an ICU nurse into her role in cosmetic patient care, Amy provides a warm, reassuring presence to all her clients, listening to their concerns and collaborating with them in a plan to bring forth and enhance their natural beauty.  A standing member of the American Association of Plastic Surgery Nurses and a past RN trainer in cosmetic and aesthetic procedures, Amy offers all types of laser treatments, botox and dermal filler injections, and chemical peels.

Melissa Mancuso

Body Contouring Specialist

Melissa has six years of experience in body contouring, beginning with her role as the CoolSculpting representative for Maryland, Virginia, and the District of Columbia. Since joining the Sheperd team, she has received additional training and now offers chemical peels, Vivace micro-needling, and Diamond Glow dermal infusion. She loves helping patients feel good about their bodies and teaching them about how the various cosmetic procedures can help them achieve the results they are seeking.

Margaret Gierhart

LE

Margaret, a South Carolina native, is a Licensed Esthetician and makeup artist with over 20 years of experience in the beauty industry. She earned a BA in Psychology from the University of South Carolina. She began her career in beauty as the resident makeup artist for Bobbie Brown cosmetics at Saks Fifth Avenue in Charleston. In order to expand her knowledge, she earned her degree in esthetics from Trident Technical College, graduating with honors. She joined the Sheperd Integrative Dermatology staff in 2014 and is certified in a wide array of cosmetic procedures and skin care products. Her offerings include laser skin resurfacing, IPL, micro-needling, chemical peels, radio frequency, laser hair removal, and body contouring. Her background in both psychology and artistry gives her a deep capacity to care for patients and understand what makes them feel beautiful. A mother of two daughters, Margaret understands beauty as not only external appearance, but also as a manifestation of the inner qualities of kindness, generosity, and well-being.

Margaret Gierhart

LE

Margaret, a South Carolina native, is a Licensed Esthetician and makeup artist with over 20 years of experience in the beauty industry. She earned a BA in Psychology from the University of South Carolina. She began her career in beauty as the resident makeup artist for Bobbie Brown cosmetics at Saks Fifth Avenue in Charleston. In order to expand her knowledge, she earned her degree in esthetics from Trident Technical College, graduating with honors. She joined the Sheperd Integrative Dermatology staff in 2014 and is certified in a wide array of cosmetic procedures and skin care products. Her offerings include laser skin resurfacing, IPL, micro-needling, chemical peels, radio frequency, laser hair removal, and body contouring. Her background in both psychology and artistry gives her a deep capacity to care for patients and understand what makes them feel beautiful. A mother of two daughters, Margaret understands beauty as not only external appearance, but also as a manifestation of the inner qualities of kindness, generosity, and well-being.

Madeline Anderson

PA-C

Maddie is a board-certified Physician Assistant and a Lowcountry native. She obtained her undergraduate degree from Clemson University and then went on to earn a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from the Medical University of South Carolina, graduating with highest honors. While in PA school, Maddie served as a Student Representative for the SC Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants. After graduation, she completed a six-month advanced dermatology internship here at Sheperd Integrative Dermatology. She also completed the Diplomate Fellowship with the Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants. Maddie has a heart for medical missions and is passionate about patient education. Her free time is shared with her family, her friends, and her two fur babies!

Madeline Anderson

PA-C

Maddie is a board-certified Physician Assistant and a Lowcountry native. She obtained her undergraduate degree from Clemson University and then went on to earn a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from the Medical University of South Carolina, graduating with highest honors. While in PA school, Maddie served as a Student Representative for the SC Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants. After graduation, she completed a six-month advanced dermatology internship here at Sheperd Integrative Dermatology. She also completed the Diplomate Fellowship with the Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants. Maddie has a heart for medical missions and is passionate about patient education. Her free time is shared with her family, her friends, and her two fur babies!

AnnaKathryn Keiper

DNP, FNP-C

AnnaKathryn completed her Doctorate degree at the Medical University of South Carolina and has seven years of experience in dermatology. She has completed additional training in medical dermatology, cosmetic dermatology, and functional medicine. She provides skin cancer screenings, surgical removal of skin cancers, treatment of precancerous lesions, extractions of cysts, and the treatment of acne. In the cosmetic domain, she provides laser, filler, and neurotoxin treatments. Certified through the Institute of Functional Medicine, AnnaKathryn has a special focus on wellness, including weight loss and diet consulting. She uses her expertise in this field to create an individualized program to help each of her patients achieve optimal wellness supporting them in maintaining vibrancy and vitality throughout their lifespan.

AnnaKathryn Keiper

DNP, FNP-C

AnnaKathryn completed her Doctorate degree at the Medical University of South Carolina and has seven years of experience in dermatology. She has completed additional training in medical dermatology, cosmetic dermatology, and functional medicine. She provides skin cancer screenings, surgical removal of skin cancers, treatment of precancerous lesions, extractions of cysts, and the treatment of acne. In the cosmetic domain, she provides laser, filler, and neurotoxin treatments. Certified through the Institute of Functional Medicine, AnnaKathryn has a special focus on wellness, including weight loss and diet consulting. She uses her expertise in this field to create an individualized program to help each of her patients achieve optimal wellness supporting them in maintaining vibrancy and vitality throughout their lifespan.

Allyson Harrell Garrison

PA-C

Ally is a board-certified Physician Assistant and a Diplomate of the Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants, their highest rating. She is a graduate of Clemson University and earned her Master’s degree in Physicians Assistant studies at the University of South Alabama; additionally, she completed a dermatology fellowship at Charlotte Dermatology in North Carolina. For more than ten years, her focus on both medical and surgical dermatology has included identifying and treating skin cancers as well as managing biologic medications for psoriasis and atopic dermatitis. Ally has a strong love of surgical dermatology and she performs surgeries every day in the clinic, including excisions of cysts and skin cancers. She also loves the challenge of a difficult case! On the cosmetic side, Ally is a skilled injector of both Botox and Dysport. She sees compassion and empathy as vital qualities that she brings to all her patient interactions. She is mindful that skin cancer screenings can be frightening or overwhelming; her warm, calm manner and her focus on patient education throughout each appointment make her an outstanding clinician.

Allyson Harrell-Garrison

PA-C

Ally is a board-certified Physician Assistant and a Diplomate of the Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants, their highest rating. She is a graduate of Clemson University and earned her Master’s degree in Physicians Assistant studies at the University of Alabama; additionally, she completed a dermatology fellowship at Charlotte Dermatology in North Carolina. For more than ten years, her focus on both medical and surgical dermatology has included identifying and treating skin cancers as well as managing biologic medications for psoriasis and atopic dermatitis. Ally has a strong love of surgical dermatology and she performs surgeries every day in the clinic, including excisions of cysts and skin cancers. She also loves the challenge of a difficult case! On the cosmetic side, Ally is a skilled injector of both Botox and Dysport. She sees compassion and empathy as vital qualities that she brings to all her patient interactions. She is mindful that skin cancer screenings can be frightening or overwhelming; her warm, calm manner and her focus on patient education throughout each appointment make her an outstanding clinician.
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