Joel L. Cohen, MD Michael E. Contreras, MD Samantha G. Stoler, MD
Stephen C. Ho, MD J. Daniel Jensen, MD Allen Markovic, PA-C
NEWSLETTER
July 2016
In This Issue
Dr. Cohen On ABC Denver
In case you missed it, Dr. Cohen talked with  Denver 7 News about skin cancer & the importance of annual check ups!

Twitter & Tanning
Social media is everywhere, and has such an influence on young women. A recent study published in the July issue of the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, shows that young women that use indoor tanning are more likely to be regular users of Twitter and Instagram.  Social norms and pressure of maintaining appearances on social media are hard on young women.  Melanoma is one of the most common cancers in young adults. Every time a person tans they increase their risk of Melanoma.  In fact, people who have used a tanning bed before age 35 have increased their risk in developing melanoma by 75%.
 
Hopefully the same social media platforms can be used to educate young women and men of the dangers of tanning. We know how harmful both indoor and outdoor tanning are, not only in regards to cancer rates, but also the cosmetic risks-- like wrinkles, skin laxity, and discoloration.
AboutSkin Acne Pads
AboutSkin Acne Pads are formulated with a unique combination of Salicylic, Glycolic, and Lactic Acid. Salicylic acid acts as a gentle exfoliant, while providing anti-irritant properties as it is a derivative of aspirin. With antimicrobial properties, it helps with treating the bacteria on the skin that can contribute to breakouts.

Glycolic & Lactic acid aid in cellular turnover. They essentially remove the "glue" from the upper layer of the skin that holds on to our dead skin cells. The combination of these three ingredients work together to deliver gentle exfoliation, leaving skin cleaner more clear.

Melanoma Data 
Cases: 76,380 - Deaths: 10,130 - Survival: 92%
Skin cancer is the most commonly diagnosed form of cancer in the United States.  The best way to detect skin cancer early is to recognize new or changing skin growths, especially those that look different from your other moles. Using the "ABCDE rules" during self exams is a great way to determine if you need an expert to take a closer look:

- A is for asymmetry (half of the mole does not match the other half) 
- B is for border irregularity (ragged, notched, or blurred edges) 
- C is for color (different shaded of brown, red, white in mole) 
- D is for diameter greater than 6 milli­meters (size of a pencil eraser) 
- E is for evolution (change)

Superficial spreading melanoma, the most common form of melanoma (about 70% of all cases), first appears as a flat or slightly raised discolored patch that has irregular borders and is asymmetric in shape. It can begin in what was previously a benign mole. Due to the fact that melanomas grow and metastasize at a higher rate than other forms of skin cancer, melanomas cause the majority of deaths related to skin cancer.
Miles for Melanoma
Dr. Ho and Dr. Contreras offered complementary skin checks at the annual Miles for Melanoma 5k fundraiser event.

Dr. Ho also participated in the run, and was first to cross the finish line!
Could a skin allergy be causing your rash?
Throughout the year we see patients presenting with a wide variety of rashes, which range from eczema due to dry winter air to allergic reactions to Apple watches (See Dr. Cohen's quote in International Business Times) to even cutaneous lymphoma. Avoiding irritating topical products is a common recommendation from our providers, especially when skin allergies are suspected.
     
Common causes of skin allergies include detergents in soaps, shampoos, conditioners and household cleansers; fragrances, and dyes.   Only 25% of allergies are picked up by standard initial contact allergy testing.  As new ingredients are added to products on the shelves, people may encounter allergy-causing chemicals that they have not been exposed to before.  Even the favorite product you've used for years may contain a new ingredient in it's formulation that could cause a rash.  Also, some people develop allergies over time to an ingredient that they never reacted to previously.   
 
Using hypoallergenic products does not ensure that you will have a reaction.  For example, laundry detergent free of fragrance and dyes, can still create irritation.  Finding products both hypoallergenic AND with low irritancy surfactant blends can also be important (e.g. All Free Clear detergent). Also, look for "fragrance free" not "unscented"; unscented products often use odor-masking fragrances. 
The Power of Acleara (ACNE treatment laser)
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, acne is one of the most common skin condition. On average, 85% of adolescents, teens, and young adults have suffered from some form of acne. Often times acne is the source of low self-esteem and even depression. Considering the market is flooded with misleading topical skin-care products, you should always consult a Board-Certified dermatologist to address and treat your condition properly. 

For years, many would rely on skin care products, topical medications, and oral antibiotics to aid in their fight against acne. Typically, patients only reach out to their dermatologist after many failed attempts of over-the-counter methods and mass-marketed products. Dermatologist recommended products, such as topical medications and retinoids are not an overnight cure, often taking 6-8 weeks for noticeable improvement. 

Scientific advancements in dermatology have yielded medical devices like Acleara to specifically target acne in conjunction with prescribed topical and oral medications. Acleara, combines broadband light and pneumatic suction (vacuum), a method known as "photopneumatic therapy". This FDA-approved device can speed up your path to clear skin. (Acleara series recommended, spaced 1 week apart). 
Dr. Cohen weighs in on the beauty discussion in
Women's Health Magazine,
(July/August issue) about Cellfina--a procedure for dimple cellulite.
Click Here!
Consumer Reports: Dr. Cohen explains why you should avoid the DIY trend when it comes to sunscreen.
Click Here!


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