Age Spots vs. Sun Spots: What’s the Difference?

Many people use the terms “age spots” and “sun spots” interchangeably, but they are not the same thing. While both are related to the sun, they have different causes and treatments. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at age spots and sun spots, and how to tell the difference between the two.

What are Age Spots?

Age spots, also known as liver spots, are flat, brown or black spots that appear on the skin as we age. They are usually found on areas of the skin that have been exposed to the sun, such as the face, hands, and arms. Age spots are caused by the overproduction of melanin, the pigment that gives our skin its color.

What are Sun Spots?

Sun spots, also known as solar lentigines, are similar to age spots in appearance, but they are caused by sun exposure. Sun spots are usually lighter in color than age spots, and they can appear anywhere on the body that has been exposed to the sun.

How to Tell the Difference

The easiest way to tell the difference between age spots and sun spots is by their location. Age spots are usually found on areas of the skin that are regularly exposed to the sun, while sun spots can appear anywhere on the body. Additionally, age spots are usually darker in color than sun spots.

Treatment Options

If you are concerned about age spots or sun spots, it is important to see a dermatologist. Dr. Raskin of Bakersfield Dermatology can provide a thorough examination and recommend a treatment plan tailored to your individual needs. Treatment options may include:

• Laser therapy
• Cryotherapy
• Chemical peels
• Topical creams

Prevention

The best way to prevent age spots and sun spots is by protecting your skin from the sun. This includes wearing sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, wearing protective clothing such as hats and long-sleeved shirts, and seeking shade during the hottest parts of the day. Avoiding tanning beds and other sources of UV radiation is also important.

Conclusion

Age spots and sun spots may look similar, but they have different causes and treatments. If you are concerned about any spots on your skin, it is important to see a dermatologist. Dr. Raskin of Bakersfield Dermatology can provide expert care and treatment options tailored to your individual needs. Remember, prevention is key when it comes to protecting your skin from the sun.

If you are looking for more information about skin cancer prevention and treatment, visit the Bakersfield Dermatology website.

Acanthosis Nigricans – What is It?

Granuloma 101

Granulomas are small areas of inflammation in tissues of the body that develop in response to various types of irritants, infections, or foreign substances. They are clusters of immune cells, such as macrophages, that gather together to surround and contain the irritant. Here is a closer look at the causes, symptoms, types, and treatments of granulomas.

Causes
Granulomas can form in response to a variety of factors, including infections, inflammation, autoimmune diseases, and exposure to certain substances. Some of the most common causes of granulomas include:

• Infections such as tuberculosis, fungal infections, and leprosy
• Autoimmune diseases such as sarcoidosis and Crohn’s disease
• Exposure to foreign substances such as talcum powder or silicone
• Chronic inflammation due to conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or inflammatory bowel disease

Symptoms
The symptoms of granulomas vary depending on the location and cause of the granuloma. In some cases, granulomas may not cause any symptoms at all. However, common symptoms of granulomas include:

• Skin lesions or bumps
• Coughing
• Fatigue
• Shortness of breath
• Weight loss
• Joint pain or stiffness
• Abdominal pain or discomfort

Types of Granulomas
There are several types of granulomas, including:

• Tuberculoid granulomas: These are caused by tuberculosis or other mycobacterial infections and are characterized by a central area of caseation necrosis surrounded by a layer of immune cells.
• Foreign body granulomas: These develop in response to foreign substances that are not able to be broken down by the body, such as talcum powder or silicone.
• Sarcoid granulomas: These are characteristic of sarcoidosis, an autoimmune disease in which immune cells cluster together in the lungs, lymph nodes, and other organs.
• Granulomatous vasculitis: This is an inflammatory condition that affects the blood vessels, causing granulomas to form around the vessel walls.

Treatments
The treatment of granulomas depends on the underlying cause and the severity of symptoms. Some treatment options include:

• Antibiotics or antifungal medication for infections
• Steroid or immunosuppressive medication for autoimmune diseases
• Surgical removal of foreign bodies
• Injections of corticosteroids into the affected area to reduce inflammation and promote healing

In some cases, granulomas may not require treatment and may go away on their own. If you have symptoms of a granuloma, it is important to seek medical attention to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment plan. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Raskin today!

Battling Boils

Boils, also known as furuncles, are painful and inflamed lumps that form beneath the skin. They are caused by an infection in a hair follicle or oil gland. Boils can occur anywhere on the body, but are most commonly found on the face, neck, armpits, buttocks, and thighs. In this article, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, types, and treatments for boils.

Causes of Boils
Boils are most commonly caused by the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus. This bacteria normally lives on the skin and in the nose, but can enter the body through a cut or break in the skin. Boils can also be caused by other types of bacteria, such as Streptococcus pyogenes.

Other factors that can increase the risk of developing boils include:

• Poor hygiene
• Diabetes
• Weakened immune system
• Friction from tight clothing or shaving
• Exposure to harsh chemicals
• Certain medications, such as steroids

Symptoms of Boils
Boils typically start as a red, painful bump that gradually increases in size over a few days. They can range in size from a pea to a golf ball, and may be accompanied by a fever or general feeling of illness. As the boil grows, it may develop a white or yellow center, which is pus that has accumulated under the skin. The skin over the boil may also become tender and swollen.

Types of Boils
There are several types of boils, including:

1. 1. Furuncles: single boils that occur on the skin and are typically caused by Staphylococcus aureus.
   2. Carbuncles: clusters of boils that are often larger than furuncles and can be very painful. Carbuncles are more likely to cause a fever or other systemic symptoms than furuncles.
   3. Cystic acne: deep, painful, and inflamed cysts that occur on the face, neck, chest, and back. These cysts are caused by blocked hair follicles.

Treatments for Boils
Most boils will heal on their own within a few weeks. However, there are some treatments that can help alleviate the pain and speed up the healing process. These treatments include:

• Applying warm compresses to the affected area for 10-15 minutes several times a day.
• Taking over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation.
• Keeping the affected area clean and dry to prevent further infection.
• Taking antibiotics if the boil is severe or if there are multiple boils.
• In rare cases, a boil may need to be drained by a healthcare professional. This involves making a small incision in the skin and draining the pus out of the boil.

Preventing Boils
There are several steps you can take to prevent the development of boils, including:

• Practice good hygiene, such as washing your hands regularly and showering after exercise or heavy sweating.
• Avoid sharing personal items, such as towels, razors, or clothing.
• Avoid tight clothing that may cause friction on the skin.
• Treat any cuts or breaks in the skin promptly with antiseptic to prevent infection.

Boils can be painful and uncomfortable, but they are usually not a cause for serious concern. Practice good hygiene and take steps to prevent the development of boils to keep your skin healthy and free of infection. Most boils will heal on their own within a few weeks, but if you experience any symptoms of a severe infection or if the boil does not heal, it is important to seek medical attention. Call our Bakersfield dermatology office to schedule an appointment.

Demystifying Birthmarks

Wondering about Warts? Here’s What You Need to Know

Warts are small, rough growths that appear on the skin, caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). They often develop on the hands, feet, knees, elbows and nail beds. Warts occur more frequently when the skin has sustained damage, such as abrasions, cuts, hangnails or cracks in the skin on the bottom of the feet. They are contagious and can be spread from person to person through direct contact.

Causes of warts include:

• HPV virus
• Direct contact with infected skin or surfaces
• Weakened immune system
• Damaged skin

Common types of warts:

• Common warts: usually appear on fingers, hands, and knees
• Plantar warts: appear on the soles of the feet
• Flat warts: often appear in large numbers on the face, neck, hands, or knees
• Filiform warts: appear as long, narrow projections around the mouth, nose, or eyes
• Genital warts: appear on the genitals, anus, or mouth

Symptoms:

• Small, rough growths on the skin
• Discoloration or dark spots on the skin
• Pain or tenderness on the affected area
• Itching or irritation

Treatments:

• Over-the-counter medications such as salicylic acid
• Prescription medications such as imiquimod cream, cantharidin, podophyllin or retinoid cream
• Surgical removal, laser treatment, freezing or burning by a doctor or dermatologist

Prevention Tips:

• Avoid direct contact with infected skin or surfaces
• Keep your skin clean and dry
• Avoid picking at warts
• Wear protective footwear in public places such as pools and showers
• Strengthen your immune system by maintaining a healthy diet and exercise routine

Warts can itch, hurt, and cause embarrassment. If you suspect that you have a wart, call us for an appointment with Dr. Raskin Bakersfield dermatologist.

What You Need to Know About Moles

Moles are a common occurrence, but not all moles are created equal. Formed from pigment-producing cells called melanocytes, moles are non-cancerous growths on the skin. They usually appear as a single shade of pigment, ranging from beige to dark brown, with a well-defined border. While most moles develop in the first 20 years of life, they can darken with sun exposure or hormonal changes during pregnancy or adolescence. It’s important to know the types of moles and when to be concerned.

There are four main types of moles:

• Congenital Nevi: These moles appear at birth and occur in about 1 in 100 people. They may have a greater tendency to develop into melanoma than moles that appear later in life.
• Dysplastic Nevi: These moles are larger than average and irregular in shape with uneven color. They can be hereditary, and one person can develop more than 100 moles.
• Halo Nevi: These moles are surrounded by lighter skin and usually benign, but they may increase the risk of vitiligo, a skin disorder.
• Blue Nevus: This type of mole is deep-seated and common in West Indian infants.

While moles generally don’t pose a significant health concern, changes in a mole could indicate melanoma or skin cancer. Pay attention to:

• Darkening of color
• Increase in size or irregular appearance
• Itchiness or pain
• Spontaneous bleeding

If a mole is bothersome or there’s a risk of skin cancer, a dermatologist may remove the mole through surgical excision or shave it away using a surgical blade. If skin cancer is suspected, the doctor will biopsy the mole.

Taking caution in the sun is one of the best ways to protect against skin cancer. You can reduce exposure to the sun by:

• Applying a water-resistant, broad-spectrum sunscreen
• Limiting time in the sun
• Looking for changes in your skin regularly
• Protecting children from the sun
• Wearing long pants and long-sleeved shirts
• Wearing a broad-brimmed hat

Prevention is key, so be proactive about protecting your skin from harmful sun exposure. If you’re concerned about a mole, consult with Dr. Raskin for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Protecting Your Skin is More Than a Beach Day Must-Have

Summer is a time for fun and relaxation, but it’s also a time when the sun is at its strongest. While we all love a good tan, exposure to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays can cause serious damage to our skin, leading to premature aging, sunburn, and even skin cancer. In fact, skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States, with over 9,000 people diagnosed every day. The good news is that there are simple steps you can take to protect yourself from the sun and enjoy a healthy, glowing complexion all year round.

Tip #1: Wear Protective Clothing
One of the most effective ways to protect your skin from the sun is to cover up. Wear long-sleeved shirts, pants, and wide-brimmed hats to shield your skin from direct sunlight. Additionally, consider purchasing clothing with built-in UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) to provide extra protection from harmful rays.

Tip #2: Use Sunscreen
Sunscreen is a crucial component of sun protection. It is recommended to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF (Sun Protection Factor) of at least 30. Apply sunscreen generously to all exposed skin, and reapply every two hours, or more frequently if you are swimming or sweating. Don’t forget to apply sunscreen to commonly overlooked areas such as your ears, hands, and feet.

Tip #3: Seek Shade
Seeking shade is a simple way to protect yourself from the sun. Avoid being outside during the hours when the sun is at its strongest, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If you’re spending time outside, look for a shaded area, such as under a tree or umbrella, to reduce your exposure to UV rays.

Tip #4: Be Mindful of Reflective Surfaces
Reflective surfaces such as water, sand, and snow can increase your exposure to UV rays. When spending time near these surfaces, be sure to take extra precautions by wearing protective clothing, using sunscreen, and seeking shade.

Tip #5: Protect Your Eyes
UV rays can damage your eyes as well as your skin. Protect your eyes by wearing sunglasses with UV protection. This will not only protect your eyes from harmful rays but will also help reduce the risk of cataracts and other eye conditions.

Protecting yourself from the sun is crucial for maintaining healthy skin and reducing the risk of skin cancer. By following these simple tips, you can enjoy all the benefits of the sun without putting your health at risk. Remember, prevention is key, so don’t forget to protect your skin from the sun every day.

Navigating Pregnancy Skin Conditions

Pregnancy is a beautiful and exciting time in a woman’s life, but it can also bring about changes in the skin. Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy can lead to various skin conditions that can be bothersome, uncomfortable, and even painful. Fortunately, many of these skin conditions can be treated with the help of a dermatologist. Here are some common pregnancy-related skin conditions and dermatology treatments for each.

1. Melasma: Melasma is a common skin condition that can develop during pregnancy due to hormonal changes. It causes dark patches to appear on the face, usually on the cheeks, nose, forehead, and upper lip. To treat melasma, a dermatologist may recommend topical creams containing hydroquinone, tretinoin, or corticosteroids. Chemical peels, microdermabrasion, and laser therapy may also be effective in reducing the appearance of dark spots.
2. Acne: Acne is a common skin condition that can worsen during pregnancy due to hormonal changes. To treat acne during pregnancy, a dermatologist may recommend topical treatments like benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. They may also recommend oral antibiotics or other prescription medications, but these options will depend on the severity of the acne and other factors.
3. Pruritic Urticarial Papules and Plaques of Pregnancy (PUPPP): PUPPP is a common skin condition that can develop during the third trimester of pregnancy. It causes itchy, red, and raised bumps to appear on the skin, usually on the abdomen, thighs, and buttocks. Treatment for PUPPP usually involves topical steroids and antihistamines to relieve itching.
4. Papular Eruptions of Pregnancy: Papular Eruptions of Pregnancy (PEP) is another skin condition that can develop during pregnancy. It causes itchy red bumps to appear on the skin, usually on the abdomen, arms, and legs. To treat PEP, a dermatologist may recommend topical steroids, oral antihistamines, or UV light therapy.
5. Pemphigoid Gestationis: Pemphigoid Gestationis (PG) is a rare autoimmune disorder that can develop during pregnancy. It causes itchy, blistering lesions to appear on the skin, usually starting around the belly button and spreading to other areas of the body. Treatment for PG usually involves topical and/or oral steroids to reduce inflammation and suppress the immune system.
6. Intrahepatic Cholestasis: Intrahepatic Cholestasis of Pregnancy (ICP) is a liver disorder that can develop during pregnancy. It causes intense itching, usually on the hands and feet, and can be associated with jaundice. Treatment for ICP usually involves medication to relieve itching and monitoring of liver function. Delivery may also be recommended, as the condition can worsen in the later stages of pregnancy.

If you’re experiencing any of these skin conditions during pregnancy, it’s essential to seek the help of a dermatologist. Dr. Raskin in Bakersfield can help diagnose the condition and recommend the best treatment options to keep you and your baby healthy. Call us today!

Don’t Skip Your Skin Cancer Check

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States, and it affects millions of people every year. Early detection and treatment are critical to the successful management of this condition. That’s why it’s essential to schedule regular skin cancer checks with a dermatologist.

A skin cancer check is a simple, painless examination of the skin that can identify the early signs of skin cancer. During the exam, your dermatologist will examine your entire body, including your scalp, nails, and the areas between your toes and fingers. They’ll look for any moles, freckles, or other spots on your skin that may be abnormal.

The dermatologist will evaluate the size, shape, color, and texture of each spot on your skin. They may use a dermatoscope, which is a special instrument that illuminates and magnifies the skin, to examine any suspicious areas in more detail. The doctor will also ask you about any symptoms you may be experiencing, such as itching, pain, or bleeding. They’ll also want to know about your medical history and any family history of skin cancer. This information can be important in determining your risk level for skin cancer and can help guide the doctor’s examination.

If the doctor finds a suspicious area, they may recommend a skin biopsy, which involves removing a small sample of skin tissue for further examination under a microscope. There are several types of skin biopsies, including shave biopsies, punch biopsies, and excisional biopsies, and the type recommended will depend on the location and size of the suspicious area. It’s important to remember that early detection is key when it comes to skin cancer, so don’t hesitate to schedule a skin cancer check with Dr. Raskin if you have any concerns or notice any changes in your skin.

Call us to schedule your appointment today.