Skin Treatments by Type
Collagen and elastin are naturally occurring components in the skin that contribute to elasticity, a smooth, firm skin texture, and an overall youthful appearance. When collagen and elastin are lost due to the aging process, sun damage, or an inflammatory skin condition like acne, the result is acne scars or various signs of aging, including fine lines, hyperpigmentation, and loose skin. Luckily, Dr. Green’s private dermatology office in NYC offers numerous non-invasive skin care treatments that can stimulate new collagen production and improve skin tone and texture without discomfort or downtime. The best skin treatments suited to your rejuvenation plan will ultimately depend on your skin type, skin tone, and specific skin concerns. Consulting with board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green in NYC is the best way to personalize your skin treatment plan and guarantee optimal results. Dr. Green offers a host of noninvasive skin treatments for rejuvenation, including laser treatments, traditional and Radiofrequency Microneedling, Thermage for skin tightening, cosmetic injectables like Botox and dermal fillers, and chemical peels, among other treatment options.
Dr. Michele Green is an internationally renowned, board-certified dermatologist with over two and a half decades of experience providing some of the world’s most discerning individuals with the best non-invasive skin treatments available. Dr. Green takes a holistic approach and embraces a less-is-more philosophy regarding facial rejuvenation, customizing each patient’s treatment plan depending on their skin type, particular concerns, skin tone, and aesthetic goals. She is consistently identified as one of New York City’s best dermatologists by Castle Connolly, New York Magazine, Super Doctors, and the New York Times for her dedication to her patients and expertise. When you consult with Dr. Green at her private, boutique dermatology office in Manhattan’s Upper East Side neighborhood, she will work with you to achieve and maintain a healthy, bright, beautiful complexion that lasts so that you look and feel like the best version of yourself.
What is the most common treatment for skin rejuvenation?
Some of the most common skin treatments for rejuvenation performed in Dr. Green’s private, boutique dermatology office in Manhattan’s Upper East Side neighborhood include the HydraFacial, chemical peels, traditional, PRP, and Radiofrequency Microneedling, Thermage for skin tightening, and laser skin resurfacing procedures. The best way to determine which skin treatments are recommended for your skin type and skin tone is to consult an experienced board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Michele Green in New York City. During your consultation with Dr. Green, you’ll have the opportunity to discuss your unique specific skin concerns and personal aesthetic goals. She will physically evaluate your skin condition and collect a thorough medical and family history to customize your treatments so that you look and feel like the best version of yourself. Dr. Green is also an Allergan Platinum injector who is known for providing what’s described as the “best Botox in New York.” Consulting with Dr. Green is the most effective and efficient way to determine which combination of treatment options would be the best for you.
Chemical Peels
Chemical peels are an incredibly popular non-invasive treatment option for rejuvenation. The process entails the topical application of a chemical solution to the skin’s surface, which accelerates the rate of skin cell turnover. Through chemo-exfoliation, dead skin cells are sloughed away to reveal new, healthy skin cells that are more even in skin tone, texture, and radiance. A chemical peel treatment can improve the appearance of many skin conditions, including breakouts, acne scars, hyperpigmentation, fine lines, irregular skin texture, dullness, and sun damage, among others.
There are many different types and strengths of chemical solutions that may be used for a chemical peel treatment, and consulting with an experienced board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Michele Green in NYC, is the best way to avoid encountering any potential unwanted side effects and guarantee optimal rejuvenation results. This is especially true for patients with sensitive skin types and darker skin tones, who may be more susceptible to developing side effects like hyperpigmentation, irritation, burning, or scarring from a chemical peel that is too strong or deep for their skin. Some commonly used chemical solutions include glycolic and salicylic acids and trichloroacetic acid. Other popular types of chemical peels include Mesopeels and Cosmelan. An experienced dermatologist will customize the strength and depth of your chemical peel treatment to ensure that it is safe and effective for your skin type, the skin concerns you want to address, and your skin tone.
Microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion is a non-invasive skin treatment that works by exfoliating the outer layers of the surface of the skin to reveal healthy, new skin cells that are more even in skin tone and texture. Traditional microdermabrasion is called crystal microdermabrasion. During a crystal microdermabrasion skin treatment, a specialized handpiece is used to gently spray small crystals (usually aluminum oxide or sodium bicarbonate) to sand away the outer layer of the skin. Diamond microdermabrasion entails directly applying a diamond-tipped handpiece to the skin’s surface to exfoliate the outer layer of the skin gently. Microdermabrasion is a quick, painless, and easy skin rejuvenation treatment that is perfect for patients of all skin types who are looking to achieve and maintain a brighter and healthier complexion. Microdermabrasion treatments and HydraFacials can begin as early as your 20s as a preventative measure against signs of sun damage and aging, which works well in conjunction with other non-invasive cosmetic treatments.
HydraFacial is a medical-grade facial that can be a beneficial skin treatment for fine lines, rosacea, acne, dullness, enlarged or congested pores, and skin discoloration, among other skin conditions. This innovative hydradermabrasion system consists of a three-part regimen designed to deeply cleanse, exfoliate, and intensely hydrate for full skin rejuvenation. The specialized vortex-tipped handpiece exfoliates the skin at various levels, similar to microdermabrasion. The handpiece delivers nourishing and hydrating serums to the skin while suctioning impurities and oil buildup from the pores. LED light therapy at the end of the HydraFacial skin treatment helps to eliminate acne-causing bacteria and improve blood circulation to the treated area, increasing the nutrient flow and improving the overall health and appearance of the skin. Hydrafacial is a safe and effective skin treatment for patients of all skin types, including those with sensitive skin and skin conditions like rosacea. HydraFacial is a customizable skin treatment that can be enhanced with specialized booster serums. When you consult with board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green at her private dermatology office in Manhattan’s Upper East Side, she will help you select the best booster serum for customizing your HydraFacial skin treatment to meet the needs of your skin type and skin condition.
How is Microdermabrasion different from dermabrasion?
Dermabrasion is a skin treatment that involves the process of removing the superficial layers of the skin to trigger the growth of new, healthy skin cells underneath. Typically, it is a surgical procedure performed by a physician using a handheld device to “sand” away the epidermis and upper layer of the dermis using a high-speed rotating wheel layered with wire brushes. Dermabrasion is more intensive and invasive than microdermabrasion and typically requires local or general anesthesia. There is downtime associated with dermabrasion as the skin undergoes the healing process, usually 10 to 14 days. The results of dermabrasion are more dramatic than microdermabrasion, although there is a greater risk associated with it, such as infection, changes in skin color, and scarring. While microdermabrasion is safe and effective for all skin types, dermabrasion is generally only safe for people with fairer skin. Patients with darker skin tones are more susceptible to developing unwanted side effects as a result of dermabrasion, including hyperpigmentation and scarring. They should opt for other rejuvenation skin treatments to ensure safety, efficacy, and optimal results.
Microneedling for facial rejuvenation
Microneedling, or collagen induction therapy, is a non-invasive cosmetic skin treatment that can help improve skin tone and texture and reduce fine lines, acne scars, enlarged pores, sun damage, and more. During a Microneedling procedure, Dr. Green applies a handheld device with tiny, surgical-grade needles to the skin’s surface. The process creates many microscopic injuries in the epidermis, which induces the natural wound-healing process of the skin. This stimulates the production of new collagen, resulting in improved skin tone, texture, elasticity, and radiance. Microneedling is a safe and effective treatment option for patients of all skin tones and skin types, including patients with sensitive skin or darker skin tones. Patients with active flare-ups of skin conditions like eczema, acne, rosacea, rash, or other inflammatory skin conditions should refrain from having Microneedling until their symptoms have resolved. Hyaluronic acid serum should be applied to the skin for several days following microneedling treatment to promote the best healing process. Microneedling treatment can be enhanced in several ways. The process involves creating thousands of microscopic channels in the skin, which enhances the absorbency of specialized serums, such as platelet-rich plasma and depigmentation serum.
Microneedling with Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) takes advantage of the body’s epidermal growth factors to accelerate the healing process and enhance the amount of new collagen produced. PRP is derived from a sample of the patient’s blood, spun in the centrifuge to separate the platelet-rich plasma from the red blood cells. After the Microneedling device is applied to the skin’s surface, the PRP is applied as a topical serum. Microneedling with PRP is the ultimate combination, as it creates maximum absorption of these nourishing growth factors through a process that renews the tissues and healing processes of the skin. It is safe for all skin types and skin tones and requires essentially no downtime.
Microneedling with depigmentation serum is an excellent treatment option for improving the appearance of hyperpigmentation, whether it be melasma, sun spots, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, or another form of unwanted pigmentation, a microneedling facial treatment with depigmenting serum is a safe and effective treatment option for achieving a more even-toned, radiant, and healthy complexion that lasts. The depigmentation serum Dr. Green utilizes is a proprietary brand of skin-brightening ingredients that counteract the melanocyte activity in the skin. The melanocytes are the skin cells responsible for producing melanin, the component of the skin that gives it pigmentation. Most patients require a short series of initial treatment sessions to achieve their final desired results.
Microneedling with radiofrequency is an innovative approach to rejuvenation that combines collagen induction therapy with radiofrequency energy to maximize new collagen production in the skin. The microneedling aspect of this treatment targets the epidermis, while the radiofrequency energy stimulates new collagen production in the dermis. This combination treatment option is FDA-approved for skin tightening, improving the appearance of hyperpigmentation and acne scarring, and reducing signs of aging on the skin, such as fine lines and wrinkles. Dr. Green offers Vivace RF Microneedling at her private dermatology office in NYC. The Vivace is the newest generation of microneedling devices and the best in class for addressing a wide array of skin concerns, providing long-lasting and immediate rejuvenation results. Safe for patients of all skin types and skin tones, this skin treatment is ideal for quickly achieving skin rejuvenation results while offering an overall comfortable patient experience and virtually zero downtime.
Laser Skin Resurfacing
Two types of lasers are typically used to treat acne scars: ablative and non-ablative. Ablative lasers work by removing the outer layers of the skin to stimulate new collagen production and restructure scar tissue. Non-ablative laser treatments trigger new collagen production in the dermis while leaving the epidermis intact, which provides great cosmetic results while significantly reducing the amount of downtime that’s required. It is important to understand which laser treatments are safe and effective for use on your skin type and skin tone in order to avoid hyperpigmentation and scarring and guarantee optimal rejuvenation results.
The most popular types of laser treatments offered at Dr. Green’s private dermatology office in Manhattan’s Upper East Side neighborhood include Fraxel, eMatrix, V-Beam, Clear + Brilliant, AlexTrivantage, and Thermage FLX. Ultimately, the type of laser treatment recommended for a patient will depend on their skin type, skin tone, skin condition, and skin concerns. It is always recommended that the patient be evaluated in person and have laser treatment with a board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Michele Green, to guarantee safety, efficacy, and ideal results.
Fraxel Laser for age spots and acne scars
The Fraxel is a non-ablative laser treatment that Dr. Green refers to as the ‘magic eraser’ for its unique ability to target a myriad of skin conditions, including sun damage, fine lines and wrinkles, enlarged pores, unwanted pigmentation, sunspots, and more. The Fraxel Dual laser treatment operates on two distinct wavelengths. The 1927 nm wavelength is a Thulium laser that can help remove pigmentation, reduce skin discoloration, and eliminate age spots and sun damage. This laser treatment targets specific chromophores, the pigment in skin cells, engaging in a controlled, local thermal reaction, which results in diminished pigmented spots. The Erbium component of the Fraxel Dual laser treatment utilizes the 1550 nm wavelength to improve textural concerns such as fine lines, wrinkles, and acne scars. The Erbium technology penetrates the deeper layers of the skin, stimulating new collagen production in the treated area. The new collagen produced from the laser treatment ultimately improves the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, skin texture, acne scars, pore size, stretch marks, and surgical scars. Fraxel laser treatment is most suitable for treating patients with fair skin tones. Patients with darker skin should not be treated with Fraxel laser treatment to avoid encountering any potential unwanted side effects such as hyperpigmentation, hypopigmentation, and scarring.
While Fraxel is an excellent treatment option for addressing hyperpigmentation associated with sun damage, acne scars, and the aging process, Fraxel laser treatment should not be used to treat melasma. The heat from the laser treatment can actually push the melasma pigmentation into the deeper layers of the skin, making it more difficult to remove. To treat melasma, Dr. Green usually recommends treatment options like Cosmelan, microneedling with depigmentation serum, or chemical peels.
V-Beam Laser Treatment for Redness
The V-Beam laser treatment is considered the gold standard for reducing facial and bodily redness. The V-Beam laser treatment is an excellent option for visible blood vessels, rosacea, acne scars, stretch marks, surgical scars, telangiectases, and more. The V-Beam laser can also be used to reduce active acne breakouts by destroying acne-causing bacteria and reducing inflammation. The Pulse Dye laser treatment operates on a wavelength that exclusively targets skin cells with red pigment, leaving the surrounding skin untouched. This laser treatment is conveniently equipped with a Dynamic Cooling Device, which releases a burst of cool air before each laser pulse and makes the treatment more comfortable for the patient. Most patients require a short series of 4-6 initial sessions of the V-Beam laser treatment to achieve their desired rejuvenation results, with each treatment spaced approximately four weeks apart. The V-Beam laser treatment is a safe and effective rejuvenation treatment option for patients of all skin types, including patients with sensitive skin types and darker skin tones.
eMatrix Sublative Laser Treatment for Acne Scars
eMatrix sublative laser is a laser skin resurfacing treatment that utilizes bi-polar radiofrequency energy to stimulate the production of new collagen and elastin in the dermal layers while leaving the outer layer of skin intact. Each pulse of the eMatrix laser treatment induces a controlled skin injury, which activates the natural wound-healing process of the skin, resulting in an increased amount of the skin proteins collagen and elastin. A greater amount of collagen and elastin in the treated area results in a smoother, firmer, tighter skin texture. eMatrix can be used to diminish the appearance of acne scars, enlarged pores, fine lines, stretch marks, and more. Depending on the skin concerns that are being addressed with the laser treatment, patients usually require 3-6 treatment sessions, each spaced approximately four weeks apart. There are about 48 hours of downtime associated with the eMatrix, during which the skin in the treatment area may be affected by side effects like swelling, redness, and tenderness. The results from an eMatrix laser treatment can take several weeks to become evident as the growth of new collagen and elastin occurs gradually. The eMatrix is also a “color-blind” laser treatment. It can be used to treat patients of any skin tone, including darker skin tones that are more susceptible to developing unwanted side effects with other laser skin resurfacing treatments.
Clear+ Brilliant Laser for Pigmentation
The Clear + Brilliant laser was FDA-approved in 2011 as a skin treatment to reduce the visible signs of aging, sun damage, pigmentation, and skin texture irregularities. Clear + Brilliant works via fractionated laser technology, designed to accelerate the rate of skin cell turnover and create millions of tiny microscopic treatment zones in the skin. This induces the natural wound-healing process and stimulates new collagen formation. Damaged and discolored skin cells are replaced with healthy, new skin cells, and there is an observable improvement in skin tone and texture. Another benefit of the C + B laser treatment is enhanced skin permeability, which makes the skin more receptive to the effects of specialized topical skin care serums.
When Dr. Green performs the Clear + Brilliant laser treatment for her patients for skin rejuvenation, she applies the Vita-C serum from her proprietary line of skincare products, MGSKINLABS, Inc. The Vita-C serum is packed with antioxidants and accelerates the process of skin rejuvenation following the C + B laser treatment. There is zero downtime involved with the Clear + Brilliant treatment, meaning that patients can schedule their treatment sessions easily. Clear + Brilliant laser treatment is safe and effective for patients of all skin tones and skin types, including patients with sensitive skin types and darker skin tones, which may be more susceptible to skin irritation and unwanted side effects with other more intense laser skin resurfacing treatments.
Thermage Laser Treatment for Skin Tightening
Thermage is the gold standard regarding non-invasive skin-tightening laser treatment. Safe and effective for all skin types and skin tones, Thermage relies on radiofrequency energy to deliver heat to the dermis, which stimulates new collagen production in the treatment area. By restoring collagen, Thermage creates a smoother, firmer, tighter skin texture. In addition to addressing skin laxity, Thermage can be used to improve the appearance of skin concerns such as fine lines and cellulite. The Thermage procedure can be performed on many areas of the body, including the face, decolletage, upper arms, abdomen, legs, buttocks, chest, and neck. It takes approximately ninety minutes to complete a Thermage treatment, and there is zero downtime involved, meaning patients can immediately resume their usual daily activities. Initial results can be observed as early as several weeks following the procedure, and collagen production stimulated by Thermage continues for up to six months. A single treatment session produces skin tightening results that can last up to two years or more, with most patients choosing to have a maintenance session once every year to a year and a half for the best results. With its ease of use, lack of side effects and downtime, and consistently stunning rejuvenation results, Thermage is one of the most popular skin treatments offered at Dr. Green’s private dermatology office in NYC.
AlexTrivantage Laser for dark spots
The AlexTrivantage laser treatment is suitable for addressing a variety of skin concerns, including eliminating the appearance of age spots, birthmarks, unwanted tattoos, and other forms of benign pigmentation. The light energy is transformed into heat as it is absorbed by the melanin-rich lesions, shattering the pigmentation and resulting in new, healthy skin cells on the surface. The Alex Trivantage can be used on all areas of the body and face and works discretely, removing the pigmentation in the treatment area without damaging any surrounding skin. This laser requires little downtime and is gentle and safe for all skin types, including patients with darker skin tones. However, individuals with recently tanned skin or who have recently used self-tanner should not be treated with the Alex Trivantage laser, as the laser can cause blistering or hyperpigmentation. The tan should fade away prior to any laser treatment. Additionally, while AlexTrivantage is an excellent treatment option for reducing various forms of pigmentation, it should not be used to treat melasma. Melasma is a skin condition that can be worsened with laser treatment, which can cause the pigmentation to become further entrenched in the deeper layers of the skin and make it harder to remove later.
It is important to consult with an experienced board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Green to guarantee you’re a candidate for AlexTrivantage laser treatment before having the procedure. Dr. Green will physically assess the skin concerns you’d like to address and may suggest a test spot before the treatment to ensure safety, efficacy, and the best cosmetic results.
Laser Hair Removal
Waxing, plucking, and tweezing can be painful and tedious, and having unwanted facial or body hair can be frustrating and embarrassing. Laser hair removal is a safe and effective non-invasive treatment option approved by the FDA for permanent hair reduction. The laser works by selectively targeting the pigment in hair follicles to eliminate unwanted hair without damaging the surrounding skin. Laser hair removal can be performed on almost any area of the body, including the face, neck, chest, back, arms, legs, abdomen, and bikini area. At her private dermatology office in Manhattan’s Upper East Side, Dr. Green uses two different laser hair removal devices and selects the appropriate laser technology based on your skin tone. Patients with fairer skin tones are treated with the GentleLase laser, and patients with darker skin tones are treated with the GentleYAG laser. If the wrong type of laser is used on a given patient, the result can be dangerous or unwanted side effects, including hyperpigmentation, burning, and scarring.
For this reason, seeking hair removal from an expert like Dr. Green is always recommended. Most patients require around six to eight laser hair removal treatments, each spaced four to eight weeks apart, although this can vary depending on the area of the body being treated. Unfortunately, patients with red, white, or grey hair cannot be treated with laser hair removal since there is insufficient pigmentation in the hair follicles to remove the hair. In these cases, patients may choose to seek treatment with a different hair removal method, such as electrolysis, for permanent hair reduction.
Intense Pulsed Light Therapy for Facial Rejuvenation
Intense pulsed light (IPL), also known as photo-rejuvenation therapy, is a type of skin treatment that relies on various wavelengths of light to provide anti-aging and rejuvenation benefits. IPL can be used to treat redness, pigmentation, sun damage, and excess hair and to tighten the skin. Depending on which specific wavelength of light is utilized, pigment cells, hair follicles, or blood vessels absorb the light energy and are destroyed. IPL can help reverse sun damage and eliminate various signs of aging to provide excellent skin rejuvenation results. IPL is not suitable for patients with darker skin tones, as the laser treatment can damage the melanin in the skin in addition to the pigmentation associated with the skin concerns it’s designed to target, including pigment in hair follicles, blood vessels or age spots. As such, IPL should only be used on patients with light skin tones to avoid unwanted side effects, such as hyperpigmentation, burning, blistering, or scarring.
What types of skin conditions do lasers treat?
Laser treatments are a popular option for skin rejuvenation and are regularly performed by board-certified plastic surgeons or dermatologists, such as Dr. Michele Green in NYC. Laser treatments can improve the appearance of a variety of cosmetic skin concerns and medical skin conditions, including active acne, acne scars, stretch marks, hyperpigmentation, fine lines, skin texture issues, age spots, sun damage, rosacea, and more.
Laser treatments may also be referred to as photo-rejuvenation, light therapy, or a laser peel. They rely on fractional or radiofrequency laser technology, photodynamic therapy, or intense pulsed light to stimulate the growth of new skin cells and trigger new collagen production in the treatment area. A skin resurfacing laser treatment procedure makes the treated skin tighter, firmer, smoother, and more youthful. Although minimal potential side effects and very little downtime are involved with most laser skin resurfacing treatments, it’s always important to seek treatment from a thoroughly trained and experienced medical professional like Dr. Green. The type of laser used for your skin rejuvenation treatment should be appropriate for your skin tone, the skin concerns you want to address, and your skin type to prevent unwanted side effects, like scarring, hyperpigmentation, burning, or blistering, and to guarantee optimal cosmetic results.
While laser treatments are exceptional when it comes to treating a wide range of skin concerns, they should never be used to treat melasma. Melasma is a skin condition characterized by patchy hyperpigmentation, usually affecting the cheeks, forehead, upper lip, and chin. Patients treated with lasers for melasma often observe that it results in worsening the appearance of their hyperpigmentation. Melasma can be even more difficult to remove after a laser treatment because the heat can cause the hyperpigmentation to become even more entrenched in the deeper layers of the skin. Dr. Green prefers to treat melasma with microneedling with depigmentation serum, chemical peels, and Cosmelan peels to ensure safety and satisfaction.
What type of skin care treatments do I need?
There are many noninvasive cosmetic procedures for rejuvenation and to combat the signs of aging available at Dr. Green’s private dermatology office in Manhattan’s Upper East Side neighborhood. Chemical peels and laser skin resurfacing treatments can treat a host of skin concerns, including hyperpigmentation, age spots, and fine lines and wrinkles, among others, by stimulating the production of new collagen and elastin in the skin. Collagen and elastin are proteins in the skin that provide it with enhanced structural support, a firm texture, and elasticity. The laser skin resurfacing treatments at Dr. Green’s private dermatology office are designed to provide ideal rejuvenation results without extensive downtime, making them a great alternative to a surgical facelift. It is important to limit sun exposure following laser skin resurfacing treatments, as many can be photosensitizing. In addition to laser skin resurfacing treatments, Dr. Green offers a host of other skin treatments, including chemical peels, microneedling, cosmetic injectables like Botox and fillers, and more. Below is more information regarding the most popular skin treatments offered at Dr. Green’s practice.
What are the different types of skin conditions or disorders?
Many different types of skin disorders vary in both presentation and severity. A board-certified dermatologist, like Dr. Michele Green in New York, can help diagnose and treat your skin condition. Below are some of the most common skin conditions affecting men and women worldwide.
Acne is the most common skin condition in the United States. The American Academy of Dermatology reports that up to 50 million individuals in the U.S. are affected by acne yearly. Acne develops when the skin’s sebaceous glands become clogged with sebum, dead skin cells, and debris, leading to inflamed lesions that characterize acne breakouts. Many factors contribute to the formation of acne, including genetics, hormones, hygiene, skin care regimen, environmental factors, diet, stress, and sleep patterns. Determining the underlying causes of acne is often the best way to discern which combination of treatment options, skincare products, and medications is best suited to resolving the breakout.
Skin cancer is a serious skin disorder that can be diagnosed and treated by a board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Michele Green, in New York City. Individuals of all skin types and skin tones need regular skin checks to maintain skin health, diagnose skin cancer as early as possible, and prevent progression. Skin cancer is an abnormal proliferation of skin cells that form a growth. Skin cancer may be genetic, related to UV/ sun exposure, or due to a combination of these factors. The three major types of skin cancer are squamous cell carcinoma, basal cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Actinic keratosis is a pre-cancerous lesion that may develop into skin cancer. Dr. Michele Green is an expert in diagnosing and treating all forms of skin cancer. As a chief resident in dermatology at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine in NYC, she has always had a keen interest in skin cancer prevention and detection.
Rosacea is a common chronic skin condition characterized by acne flare-ups, facial redness, and visible blood vessels. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, five percent of the population of the United States, or 14 million individuals, are affected by rosacea. While there is no cure for rosacea, it is possible to manage the symptoms with various treatment options and prevent flare-ups by understanding what triggers them. Most patients with rosacea have fair skin tones, and it occurs more commonly in women than men. A proper diagnosis from an expert in dermatology, such as Dr. Michele Green in NYC, is essential to manage this skin condition the best. When you consult with Dr. Green, she can assess your skin, review your medical history, analyze possible environmental triggers, and determine which treatments will be best for your symptoms.
Eczema, a skin condition known as atopic dermatitis, is believed to be caused by a genetic variation that weakens the body’s ability to retain moisture. This prevents the natural skin barrier from functioning properly and protecting against bacteria, allergens, and other irritants. Symptoms of eczema can vary greatly from patient to patient and may include itchiness, dryness, scaliness, inflammation, rashes, and lichenification. There is no cure for eczema, but symptoms can be managed with various home remedies, in-office treatment options, and medications.
Melasma is a skin condition characterized by patches of brown or grey-brown skin discoloration, most commonly affecting the cheeks, upper lip, chin, nose, and forehead. Melanin is the component of the skin that is responsible for pigmentation. Melanocytes are the skin cells that are responsible for producing melanin. Melasma has been found to occur when melanocytes are overstimulated and produce too much melanin, resulting in patches of darker skin. While the exact cause of melasma is unknown, factors such as frequent or prolonged sun exposure, genetics, and hormones have been linked to increased pigment production in the skin. The majority of individuals affected by melasma are women. While men can potentially develop melasma, according to the American Academy of Dermatology, only 10% of people with this skin condition are men. Melasma typically affects people with light to medium brown skin tones (Fitzpatrick skin types III and IV) and darker skin tones (Fitzpatrick skin types V and VI). This is because there are more melanocytes present in brown skin, meaning that there is a greater potential for making a larger amount of melanin than there is in lighter skin. Additionally, those with a family history of melasma or facial hyperpigmentation are more likely to develop this skin condition.
What is the best anti-aging skin treatment?
The best anti-aging skin treatment for any individual depends on their skin concerns and aesthetic goals. An expert in cosmetic dermatology, such as board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green in NYC, can customize your rejuvenation treatment plan to incorporate the treatment options best suited to your individual needs and goals while considering your skin type, skin tone, and skin conditions. Dr. Green is an internationally renowned leader in the field of dermatology with over 25 years of experience providing the best skin treatments available for patients of every skin type and skin tone. Dr. Green offers a host of non-invasive skin treatments for rejuvenation that provide ideal cosmetic results with minimal downtime. If you are interested in non-surgical solutions for combating the signs of aging, Dr. Green can help.
How are skin conditions different from skin types?
Skin type is categorized by oil secretion, hydration, and sensitivity. There are five skin types: oily, dry, sensitive, normal, and combination. Skin type describes certain characteristics and is largely genetic. Although skin type may change over time, it does not change often, and it is impossible to change skin type deliberately. Skin conditions may be present at birth or develop in later stages of life. The skin condition can refer to a concern often treatable by a board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Michele Green, although it may not always be curable. Both internal and external factors may influence the skin condition. Some common skin conditions include acne, eczema, rosacea, hyperpigmentation, and melasma. It is possible to have multiple skin conditions that you would like to address with skin care products and in-office treatment options, and a dermatologist like Dr. Green can help you develop a personalized treatment plan.
Dr. Green has over two and a half decades of experience as a leader in the field of dermatology, offering a host of the best non-invasive skin treatment options available to some of the world’s most discerning men and women. Dr. Green embraces a holistic approach to rejuvenation treatment, incorporating her artistic background and embracing a less-is-more philosophy to provide her patients with long-lasting, natural-looking results. For her dedication to her patients and expertise, she is consistently recognized as one of NYC’s best dermatologists by Castle Connolly, New York Magazine, and Super Doctors. Whether you are interested in learning more about your skin type and the skin care products that will help you achieve and maintain a healthy and radiant complexion, seeking expertise regarding the management of symptoms of your skin condition, in need of a skin cancer screening, or looking to eliminate visible signs of aging, Dr. Green is here to help.
What is the percentage of people with skin conditions?
The National Institute of Health reports that approximately one out of three individuals in the United States is affected by a skin condition at any given time. More information on the prevalence of skin conditions can be found at www.nccih.nih.gov. In addition, The World Health Organization estimates that approximately 900 million people worldwide are affected by some sort of skin condition. Genetics, environmental conditions, allergies, irritants, and hormones, among other factors, may contribute to a skin condition. A board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Michele Green in NYC, can help you diagnose and treat your skin condition with an array of skin treatments that are best suited to your skin type and skin tone.
What are some common types of skin concerns?
Sun damage is caused by exposure to the sun’s harmful UV rays and, in addition to increasing one’s risk of developing skin cancer, can result in premature signs of aging. Sunspots, also known as solar lentigines, liver spots, and age spots, are one of the most noticeable signs of sun damage. Sunspots are benign, flat, circular areas of darker skin that develop when skin cells produce too much pigment in response to sun exposure. Fine lines, wrinkles, and skin laxity may also be caused or exacerbated by sun damage, as sun exposure causes collagen in the skin to break down at an accelerated rate. The best approach to managing sun damage is prevention. Regardless of skin type, skin tone, and skin condition, it is important to protect skin from UV and sun exposure with broad-spectrum sunscreen. Broad-spectrum sunscreen protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Sunscreen should have a minimum SPF of 30 and be reapplied every 90 minutes. Patients with Fitzpatrick skin type I are much more susceptible to encountering sun damage than individuals of other Fitzpatrick skin types. Individuals with the Fitzpatrick skin type typically have naturally red or blonde hair, fair skin, and light blue, green, or grey eyes.
Acne scars are an incredibly common type of skin problem. Any type of inflammatory acne lesion may lead to acne scars. Acne scars occur due to inflammation, causing irreparable damage to underlying skin tissue. Acne scars may be even more challenging to treat than the initial breakouts themselves, which is why it is crucial to be evaluated by a board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Michele Green in NYC, as soon as possible for active acne. Laser skin resurfacing treatment is considered the most effective treatment option for generating new collagen production and treating acne scars. Dr. Green offers many non-ablative laser skin resurfacing treatment options, which treat the dermal layers of skin while leaving the outer layer of the skin intact. This promotes a faster healing process and limits the downtime required after treatment while providing exceptional cosmetic results. Subcision with dermal fillers, chemical peels, and microneedling are other popular treatment options for acne scars offered at Dr. Green’s boutique dermatology office in Manhattan’s Upper East Side neighborhood. When you consult with Dr. Green for your rejuvenation treatment, she will work with you to create a customized treatment plan that incorporates skin care products, in-office treatment options, and any necessary medications to clear your acne and reduce acne scars.
Skin laxity, or loose, sagging skin, is a part of the natural aging process and occurs due to the depletion of collagen and elastin levels. Collagen and elastin are proteins in the skin that provide enhanced structural support, firmness, and elasticity. As these proteins break down over time, skin laxity increases, resulting in the appearance of loose, excess, crepey skin. Sun exposure can exacerbate skin laxity. Often, the areas of the body first affected by skin laxity include the face (particularly the jowls), neck, and chest. Luckily, there are non-invasive skin-tightening treatment options available for rejuvenation, the most popular being Thermage. Thermage is the gold standard for non-invasive skin-tightening. Thermage treatment relies on radiofrequency energy to deliver heat to the dermal layers of the skin. This process stimulates new collagen production that gradually creates a firmer, tighter, smoother, and more youthful skin texture. Thermage can also be used to treat skin laxity on the face, neck, chest, decolletage, upper arms, abdomen, thighs, and buttocks, and it can also help improve the appearance of cellulite.
What types of conditions do dermatologists treat?
Dermatologists are trained medical experts who can treat a wide range of medical skin conditions, including acne, rosacea, eczema, psoriasis, hair loss, and skin cancer. Additionally, many dermatologists offer skin treatments or provide customized skincare plans to address cosmetic skin concerns, including acne scars, signs of aging, and sun damage. A good dermatologist will help you improve your skin health while properly educating you on your skin condition. Usually, the best dermatologists are board-certified and have many years of experience.
Having a dermatologist is also important because skin conditions can be indicative of larger systemic issues. For example, psoriasis can sometimes be a sign of diabetes or arthritis. Seeing a dermatologist is also crucial for regular skin cancer screenings. It can be difficult to distinguish whether a new or evolving growth on your skin is harmless or a lesion that may develop into lethal skin cancer. Therefore, it is important to see a dermatologist annually for a skin check to make sure there are no new or changing growths that can potentially be deadly. If you have a personal or family history of skin cancer, it is recommended to have more frequent skin cancer screenings and schedule an exam every six months.
Dr. Green is an internationally recognized dermatologist with over 25 years of experience in non-invasive cosmetic dermatology. She is also an expert in acne treatment, skin cancer screenings, and other dermatological care for healthy skin. A graduate of Yale University, she attended the Mount Sinai School of Medicine and was chief resident in dermatology at The Mount Sinai School of Medicine. Dr. Green is consistently voted one of the best dermatologists in NYC by Castle Connolly, New York Magazine, the New York Times, and Super Doctors for her dedication to her patients and expertise. If you are looking for the best skin treatments in New York, whether for rejuvenation or a medical skin condition, Dr. Green is here to help.
What type of skincare routine is best for me?
The best skincare routine is one that is designed for you based on your skin type, specific skin concerns (like hyperpigmentation, acne, or anti-aging), and seasonality. These considerations can serve as a guide in regards to selecting the active ingredients in your skincare products. For example, salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide are common active ingredients in acne-fighting skincare products because they clear the pores and reduce inflammation, respectively. While the active ingredients should be customized to suit your needs and goals, any basic skincare routine should always include a gentle cleanser, moisturizer, and broad-spectrum sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30. With an abundance of over-the-counter options available, it can feel tricky or overwhelming to develop one’s skincare routine without some help. To guarantee that your skincare routine is catering to your needs and goals, especially if you also have a skin condition like acne, eczema, rosacea, or hyperpigmentation, it is always recommended to consult an experienced board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Michele Green in New York City. Dr. Green is an internationally renowned board-certified dermatologist with over two and a half decades of experience providing some of the world’s most discerning individuals with the best skincare and non-invasive skin treatments for rejuvenation. When you consult with Dr. Green at her private, boutique dermatology office in Manhattan’s Upper East Side neighborhood, she will work with you to design a personalized skincare routine that targets all your skin concerns and goals so that you achieve a healthy, radiant more youthful complexion that lasts.
What is a natural skin care product?
Natural skin care products are made from ingredients that are available in nature and are free from synthetic dyes, fragrances, sulfates, and other chemicals. These skin care products are especially recommended for patients with sensitive skin or inflammatory skin conditions like eczema. When you consult with expert board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green in NYC, she will work with you to develop a skincare regimen that includes specially formulated skin care products best suited to your skin type, skin concerns, skin tone, and skin condition. The basic components of any skin care regimen include a cleanser, moisturizer (lotion or cream), and broad-spectrum sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30. Incorporating products with active ingredients should be planned with Dr. Green based on your needs and skin type. For example, it is often recommended that patients with oily, acne-prone skin incorporate skin care products containing exfoliating ingredients, such as retinoids, salicylic acid, and glycolic acid, to keep the pores clear and prevent acne. Using the wrong skin care products for your skin type or condition may irritate you.
How many types of skin types are there? What are the five types of skin?
There are five skin types: oily, dry, normal, combination, and sensitive. If you have normal skin, you’ll find that the skin is not too dry or oily and isn’t sensitive. Normal skin generally has a balanced pH, produces an appropriate amount of sebum, and is blemish-free. Enlarged pores and a shiny, greasy appearance characterize oily skin. It’s common for those with oily skin to suffer from acne breakouts. Acne is formed when sebum and oil become trapped in the sebaceous glands of the skin. Once the glands are clogged, the bacteria that normally live there multiply rapidly, causing inflammation in the skin cells. This inflammation causes blemishes and cysts associated with acne. Dry Skin tends to be rough in texture and is often flaky. Dry skin can feel tight, and seasonal changes may exacerbate flaking and tightness. Having combination skin means that in some areas, the skin is oily, and in some areas, it’s dry. Combination skin commonly appears oily in the T-zone area and dry on the cheeks. Sensitive skin is prone to skin conditions like contact dermatitis, and it is reactive to harsh products and environmental triggers. A board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Michele Green in NYC, can help you determine your skin type and select the skin care products best suited to your needs.
Dermatologists use the Fitzpatrick classification of skin types to evaluate a patient’s risk of developing skin cancer and determine which skin treatments are appropriate for a given patient. The Fitzpatrick scale of skin types is based on skin color, eye color, and response to UV/ sun exposure. The Fitzpatrick scale ranges from skin type I to VI, with individuals of skin type I tending to always burn from sun exposure and individuals with skin type VI tending never to burn. Individuals of any Fitzpatrick skin type may develop skin cancer, however, and it is important to have regular skin cancer screenings with a board-certified dermatologist regardless of skin type and skin tone. Additionally, many different rejuvenation skin treatments that rely on laser energy must be operated by an experienced dermatologist who can select the appropriate laser treatment and settings for a given patient’s skin tone and type. If the wrong laser device or settings are used on patients with darker skin tones, unwanted side effects may develop, including hyperpigmentation, hypopigmentation, and scarring. Dr. Green is a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist who is highly experienced in working with male and female patients with various skin types and skin tones. Dr. Green utilizes the most cutting-edge technology and innovative skin treatment techniques to provide all patients, including African American, Asian, Latin, and Hispanic, with ideal rejuvenation results. Some of the most popular skin treatments available at Dr. Green’s private dermatology office include laser treatments such as Fraxel, eMatrix, and Clear+Brilliant, in addition to chemical peels, microneedling, and Thermage, among other skin treatments.
Are skin types genetic?
Skin type is typically categorized by sensitivity, hydration, and sebaceous secretion. These aspects are mainly genetic but can be influenced by several other contributing factors and change over time. It is common for skin type to change due to hormones, aging, or other health-related concerns. The condition of your skin may also seem to be affected by environmental factors such as humidity. Understanding whether your skin type is oily, dry, normal, combination, or sensitive is essential when selecting skincare products and cosmetic treatments. There is a simple test that can be performed to determine skin type at home. First, wash the skin with a mild, gentle cleanser. Avoid applying any skincare products after cleansing, and after 30 minutes, evaluate the condition of your skin. You have dry skin if your skin feels tight, itchy, flaky, irritated, or scaly. Oily skin appears shiny throughout. Combination skin may have patches that appear dry and are often oily in the t-zone. If your skin feels comfortable and hydrated without feeling oily, it’s normal. Skin that appears red, inflamed, irritated, or stings is sensitive. An expert in the field of dermatology, such as Dr. Green in New York City, can help you understand your skin type and work with you to establish a skincare routine that caters to your specific needs, as well as make adjustments over time as necessary.
Fitzpatrick skin type classification is another method of evaluating skin type based on skin color and reaction to sun exposure. Understanding Fitzpatrick skin types is important for determining the risk of developing skin cancer and the appropriate types of sun protection. It is imperative to remember that individuals of any skin color may develop skin color. Using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30 is an essential component in any standard skincare routine. Fitzpatrick skin type I always burns and never tans, whereas type VI never burns. A board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Michele Green in New York, must consider a patient’s Fitzpatrick skin type when selecting the appropriate laser device and settings for their treatments. Using an inappropriate laser or incorrect settings for a patient’s skin type can result in unwanted side effects, including hyperpigmentation, hypopigmentation, and even scarring. For this reason, it is always recommended that you have your cosmetic rejuvenation treatments with a board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Green, who has the expertise and experience to recommend the treatments best suited to your skin type and skin tone.
What type of skin treatment do I need?
Your skin is unique, and so is the combination of skincare routines and skin treatments that you should have to keep it looking and feeling its very best. Your skin type is genetic, but your skin condition and specific needs can change over time and may even vary from season to season. Consulting with a board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Green will help you best understand your skin type and develop a treatment plan that incorporates the best combination of skin care products and in-office skin treatments designed especially for you. From selecting the right cleansers, moisturizers, and sunscreens to utilizing the most cutting-edge anti-aging technology available, Dr. Michele Green in New York City can help you establish a personalized plan to take care of your skin and keep it healthy and youthful-looking.
Should I get Botox?
Botox was created by the pharmaceutical company Allergan, and its indications for use and popularity have increased exponentially over the years. Before Botox and other cosmetic injectables were invented, patients interested in skin treatments for facial rejuvenation were limited to more invasive cosmetic procedures, such as facelifts and other plastic surgery. Now, skin rejuvenation is possible in a quick procedure with essentially zero downtime or discomfort. Botox and other neuromodulators are derived from the botulinum toxin type A. Botulinum toxin affects the nervous system by blocking the release of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, causing targeted, temporary muscle paralysis. This ability to “freeze” facial muscles is what makes Botox so effective at treating and preventing the formation of dynamic fine lines and wrinkles. Dynamic fine lines are those that are caused by repetitive facial expressions, and the most commonly treated areas include the glabellar lines, forehead lines, and crow’s feet. Botox can also be used for the chin, neck, trapezius muscles, frown lines, and masseter muscles.
The effects of Botox can take up to two weeks to kick in, after which they last for up to four months. Most patients have regular maintenance treatments of Botox to keep up the best cosmetic results. There are very few potential side effects, and the most common include swelling, bruising, and tenderness at or near injection sites. These side effects resolve independently within two weeks of injections. Since there’s little downtime involved, it is easy to have Botox injections on the same day as many other skin treatments. In fact, many of Dr. Green’s patients in the Upper East Side neighborhood of New York have multiple skin treatments in the same appointment to achieve pan-facial rejuvenation. Dr. Green was among the first dermatologists in New York to offer cosmetic Botox injections to her patients. She is an Allergan Platinum injector providing what’s been described as the “best Botox in NYC.”
How to get started with skincare treatments for your skin type today
Having an understanding of your skin type is the very first step in ensuring that it is properly cared for. With an abundance of over-the-counter skincare products and in-office skin treatments available, it can feel like a challenge to determine which combination is best suited to one’s unique skin concerns and goals. Luckily, achieving and maintaining a healthy, radiant complexion is easy when you work with an expert, such as board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green in NYC. At her private dermatology office in the Upper East Side neighborhood of Manhattan, she offers a host of non-invasive skin treatments for rejuvenation. She works with each patient individually to create a treatment plan that takes into consideration their skin type, any skin conditions they have, and their skin tone.
Dr. Michele Green is an internationally renowned board-certified dermatologist with over two and a half decades of experience providing some of the world’s most discerning men and women with the best non-invasive skin treatment options available, including for medical skin conditions like acne, rosacea, and skin cancer, as well as cosmetic skin concerns like sun damage, acne scars, and signs of aging. Dr. Green takes a holistic approach to skin treatments. For her dedication to her patients and expertise, she is consistently identified as one of New York City’s best dermatologists by New York Magazine, Super Doctors, and Castle Connolly. When you consult with Dr. Green at her private dermatology office in the Upper East Side neighborhood of Manhattan, she will work with you to develop a personalized skin treatment plan that is catered best to your skin tone, skin type, and skin condition. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Green, please call the NYC-based office at 212-535-3088 or contact us online today.