Whether they are painful or simply unsightly, growths on the skin can be alarming to find. At Skin Wellness Dermatology of Alabama, our team of providers is asked daily about whether spots like skin tags and cysts could benefit from cosmetic or medical attention. Here’s what we tell our patients about the make-up of each condition and the treatments that can help. Skin Tags Small soft growths of skin that protrude from the body, skin tags are made up of normal skin tissue and occur most often in people who are overweight or who have a genetic predisposition. At our practice, we see them where friction is common—around the neck, under the arms, between the legs, or other places where clothing or skin rub together …

Also known as miliaria, heat rash affects us all in hot, humid weather. This time of year, it is one of the most talked about skin conditions that we see at Skin Wellness Dermatology of Alabama. So what makes those the little blisters and bumps pop up at the end of a day in the sun? Occluded sweat glands. When our pores get blocked or full, perspiration is trapped under the skin. Instead of evaporating, perspiration causes inflammation and rash. This can happen from wearing tight, non-breathable fabrics in the sun; from sweating profusely; or from applying thick, heavy moisturizers or sunscreens. Friction will make it worse. Adults often find heat rash in folds of skin and in places where clothing rubs on perspiring skin. …

Have you ever wondered exactly how and why skin cancer begins? Well, when the sun instigates the formation of free radicals in the skin, it can set off a series of reactions in our cells that cause their development to go awry. As these abnormal cells accumulate in the skin, cancer sets in. At Skin Wellness Dermatology of Alabama, we know that while protecting yourself from the sun can prevent the formation of free radicals, your diet can make an impact as well. As skilled specialists, we recommend you add the following foods to your regular mealtimes and snacks as a proactive measure to help keep UV-damage at bay. Green Tea. While Dr. Hartman was a resident at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, his department conducted …

Skin Wellness’ own Dr. Rayna Dyck appeared on ABC 33/40 after an interview with Cynthia Gould, discussing nail fungus and the risk associated with nail salons. To view the segment, click here.

Did anyone catch a glimpse of Dr. Hartman on the “Ask the Doctor” segment, with Mickey Ferguson on WBRC Fox 6 this week? Our very own, Dr. Hartman spoke on the danger of significant sun exposure, why oily skin is actually a blessing, and what a pre-cancerous spot typically looks like. If you missed out, you can view the segment here:

Skin Wellness Dermatology of Alabama is excited to announce the release of a new procedure offered: Kybella. This new injectable is for fat reduction, and contouring of the dreaded “turkey neck.” After five years of development, it is finally scheduled to arrive. Dr. Hartman has received the honor of being in the first group of dermatologists in Alabama to offer this therapy treatment. KYBELLA™ (deoxycholic acid) injection is the first and only FDA-approved nonsurgical treatment that contours and improves the appearance of submental fullness, sometimes referred to as “double chin.” You and your Skin Wellness doctor will design a customized treatment plan to help you improve your chin profile. Many patients experience visible contouring of their chin profile in two to four treatment sessions spaced …