Southlake Dermatology

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High Altitude, High Impact: Ways Flying Affects Your Skin 

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As holiday travel surges, many of us are preparing for flights, family gatherings, and festive fun, but few think about how the skin fares at 30,000 feet. With nearly 31 million passengers expected to travel this holiday season, the risk for “travel-skin stress” is very real.  

Here’s what you need to know before, during and after your flight to keep your glow grounded and your skin barrier intact. 

Why Air Travel Drains Your Skin 

Flying isn’t just tiring for you; your skin feels it too. 

  • Low humidity: Cabin air often drops below 20% humidity, leading to dehydration of the skin’s outer layer and weakening of the moisture barrier. 
  • Increased UV exposure: At altitude, UVA rays penetrate and can affect skin even when the weather seems benign. 
  • Pressure + recycled air: The combination of lower pressure, recycled air, and often cold cabin conditions means skin is more vulnerable to damage, tightness and visible fatigue. 

This means even if you’ve been diligent with your routine on the ground, the airplane environment can undo some of that prep if you’re not careful. 

Pre-Flight Skin Prep: Start with Strength 

To give your skin the best chance of arriving looking refreshed, not drained, here’s your pre-flight strategy: 

  • 24 hours ahead: Avoid introducing new or strong actives (like high-strength retinols or aggressive acids) right before flying; the skin’s barrier is already going to be compromised. 
  • Moisture-lock: Use a rich emollient moisturizer the evening before you fly and incorporate a hydrating serum (think hyaluronic acid or glycerin-based) to boost water retention. 
  • Sunscreen before you fly: Yes, apply a broad-spectrum SPF in the morning (even if your destination is cloudy) because window seats can expose you to more UVA than you’d expect. 
  • Minimize stressors: Get a decent night’s sleep, stay well hydrated from within, and skip alcohol or extra caffeine in the evening before travel, since these dehydrate you further and impact skin resilience. 

Post-Flight Recovery: Landing with Your Skin in Mind 

You made it! But your skin needs a reset: 

  • Gentle cleanse: Choose a non-foaming, barrier-friendly cleanser as soon as you can. Skip harsh scrubs or physical exfoliants in the next 24 hours. 
  • Repair & replenish: Use a barrier-repair cream (rich in ceramides, fatty acids, cholesterol) and a hydrating mask or overnight treatment. 
  • Consider in-office care: If your skin feels very tight, red, or you have a big event after traveling, a quick in-office treatment (like a hydration facial or gentle laser) can help your glow catch up. 
  • Return to your routine slowly: After 24-48 hours at home, you can resume your regular skincare routine.  

Why It Matters for You & Your Routine 

With the massive number of holiday travelers, and the compressed timelines of Thanksgiving week, your skin is competing with the same stressors your body, mind and schedule are facing. By integrating pre-flight and post-flight steps into your skincare plan, you’re proactively protecting one of your most visible assets: your skin. 

Safe travels, and here’s to arriving at the holiday table with your best self! 

Perfect Timing: How to Know When You’re Ready for Neuromodulators 

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A common question is “when should I start Dysport or Botox, am I too young, or did I wait too long?” 

The truth is there’s no magic number. The right time to start neuromodulators depends on your unique skin, muscle movement, genetics, and lifestyle. Let’s separate facts from social media myths and help you understand how timing affects your results. 

What Are Neuromodulators? 

Neuromodulators like Dysport, Botox, Xeomin, and Daxxify are injectable treatments that relax targeted facial muscles to reduce wrinkles caused by repeated expressions, such as frowning, squinting, or raising your eyebrows. 

By softening those muscle contractions, neuromodulators smooth dynamic lines (the ones you see when you move) and can even help prevent them from becoming permanent static wrinkles. 

Why There’s No “Perfect Age” 

Every face and every wrinkle pattern is different. Some people naturally have stronger muscle movement, thinner skin, or more expressive habits, which means fine lines can appear earlier. 

Here’s what dermatologists generally agree on: 

  • Under 25: Focus on prevention through daily sunscreen, consistent skincare, and hydration.  
  • Mid-to-Late 20s: If you notice faint lines that stay after you stop making an expression (for example, forehead lines that linger), small “micro-doses” may help prevent deepening. 
  • Early 30s: A popular time to begin regular treatments, often as preventative or prejuvenation. 
  • 40s + : Treatments shift from prevention to correction, targeting more established wrinkles while maintaining natural expression. 

The “Preventative” Approach 

Preventative neuromodulator treatments aim to train facial muscles to contract less intensely, slowing the formation of permanent lines. It’s not about looking frozen; it’s about preserving smooth, natural movement. 

The benefits: 

  • Softer expression lines over time 
  • Lower doses needed for maintenance 
  • More natural aging process 

When performed by an experienced provider, the goal is to still look like you, just more refreshed and rested. 

Factors That Influence When to Start 

Before starting, consider these five factors: 

  • Muscle Movement — Strong frown or forehead lines may justify starting earlier. 
  • Genetics — If your parents developed deeper lines early, you might, too. 
  • Sun & Lifestyle — UV exposure, stress, and dehydration accelerate wrinkle formation. 
  • Skin Quality — Thinner, drier skin tends to show creases sooner. 
  • Personal Goals — Some patients prefer early prevention; others wait until lines appear. 

There isn’t one “correct age” to start; there’s just your right time. The ideal moment is when fine lines begin to linger at rest or when you’re ready to take a proactive step toward graceful, confident aging. 

When approached with expertise, neuromodulators are not about changing how you look; they’re about helping you look as good as you feel. 

Skincare Stocking Stuffers for Everyone on Your List 

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The holiday season is officially here, and so is the search for the perfect stocking stuffers. Tiny gifts don’t have to feel like afterthoughts. With the right skincare, they can be some of the most loved items of the season. Whether you’re gifting family, friends, or treating yourself, these dermatologists backed, medical grade picks from BestDerm.com deliver glow, hydration, and real results long after the holidays are over. 

XOMD Intoxicate Serum

For the skincare lover who wants visible results without irritation, AlphaRet is a standout. This award-winning formula combines retinoids and alpha hydroxy acids to improve skin tone, texture, and fine lines with less dryness than traditional retinol. 

SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic

A favorite antioxidant that protects against environmental damage and brightens the skin. 

ISDIN K-Ox Eyes

Helps reduce puffiness and under-eye bags, lighten dark circles, and restore firmness and elasticity for a brighter, more rested eye area. 

Alastin Ultra Nourishing Moisturizer

A rich, calming moisturizer powered by TriHex Technology® that deeply hydrates, supports skin barrier repair, and helps boost elastin and collagen production for smoother, healthier-looking skin. 

EltaMD UV Sheer Broad-Spectrum SPF 50+

A lightweight, hydrating facial sunscreen offering broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection, water/sweat resistance up to 80 minutes. 

Small Gifts, Big Results 

Stocking stuffers are the small surprises that often bring the biggest smiles. With dermatologists approved products from BestDerm.com, you can give thoughtful, effective skincare gifts that elevate any skincare routine, no guesswork required. 

Whether you’re filling stockings for loved ones or curating your own holiday wishlist, these picks deliver luxury, science, and results in every drop. 

Don’t forget: the best gift of all is healthy skin. Schedule your visit with us before the holidays are here! 

Effortless Gifting: How to Pick Skincare That Works for Everyone 

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The holiday season is a time for giving, and what better way to show someone you care than with the gift of healthy, radiant skin? Skincare makes a thoughtful, personal present, but choosing the right products for someone else can be tricky. Our dermatology experts share a few tips to help you select dermatologist-approved gifts that make your loved ones glow with confidence. 

Start with Skin Type, Even If You’re Guessing 

If you don’t know your recipient’s exact routine, keep it simple and universal. Look for: 

  • Hydrating cleansers and moisturizers that work for all skin types. 
  • Barrier repair products with ceramides, niacinamide, or hyaluronic acid. 
  • Fragrance-free formulas, ideal for sensitive or allergy-prone skin. 

When in doubt, opt for gentle, dermatologist-tested products labeled “for all skin types.” 

Avoid Potent Actives Unless You Know Their Routine 

Retinol, exfoliating acids, and vitamin C can deliver transformative results, but they can also cause irritation if used incorrectly. Unless you’re certain about someone’s skin tolerance, skip these ingredients and choose products that hydrate and soothe instead. 

Gift by Theme 

Curate a skincare story rather than individual products. Try: 

  • Hydration: Cleanser, serum, and moisturizer for winter dryness. 
  • Glow Essentials: Gentle exfoliant paired with a brightening serum. 
  • Post-Treatment Care: Calming mask and SPF for those who love in-office treatments. 

SPF: The Gift Everyone Needs Year-round 

A broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) is universally beneficial. Choose one that’s lightweight, blends well, and includes antioxidants. Tinted mineral options make an elegant everyday staple. 

The Gift of Healthy, Beautiful Skin 

The best skincare gift goes beyond beauty, it’s about confidence, care, and long-lasting results. Whether you’re shopping for a friend, family member, or even yourself, our team can help you find the right products to make this season glow. 

Do Ice Baths Really Benefit Your Skin?  

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From ice plunges to facial icing, cold therapy is everywhere right now. Influencers and athletes alike swear that immersing in ice water can reduce inflammation, boost circulation, and even make skin glow. But do ice baths, for your face or your body, really deliver lasting benefits, or just a refreshing chill? Here’s what the science says. 

The Trend: Cooling Your Way to Better Skin 

Facial ice baths have exploded across reality tv, TikTok and Instagram. Enthusiasts claim they: 

  • Shrink pores and tighten skin 
  • Reduce puffiness and redness 
  • Give a lifted, refreshed glow 
  • Boost mood and recovery after workouts 

Whole-body ice baths are promoted as improving everything from inflammation to metabolism — and yes, some say it even “tightens” body skin. 

What Actually Happens When You Chill Your Skin 

When skin is exposed to cold, blood vessels constrict, temporarily reducing swelling, redness, and puffiness. As skin rewarms, circulation rebounds, giving that healthy post-plunge flush. 

So yes, cold therapy can make your skin look momentarily firmer and calmer, but it’s a temporary physiological response, not a structural skin change. 
Cold plunges and ice baths don’t boost collagen or permanently tighten skin. However, the increased circulation may give a short-term radiance boost. 

Cold exposure offers mild, short-lived effects and can feel invigorating, but it’s not a substitute for professional skin tightening or resurfacing treatments. 

The Risks of Overdoing It 

Whether it’s your face or body, overexposure to extreme cold can backfire: 

  • Cold burns or frostbite, especially if ice touches skin directly 
  • Broken capillaries or increased redness, particularly for those with rosacea 
  • Excessive dryness or irritation, since cold constricts oil glands 
  • Aggravated eczema or dermatitis, from temperature shock 

For the face, use chilled tools (rollers, globes, or masks) rather than raw ice. For body plunges, keep exposure brief (1–3 minutes max) and avoid if you have circulation issues or skin conditions sensitive to temperature changes. 

The Bottom Line 

Facial icing and ice baths can give your skin a quick wake-up, but they’re not miracle cures. If you enjoy them as part of your wellness routine, keep it safe, gentle, and brief. For true tightening, brightening, and rejuvenation, clinical treatments are the real solution. 

Back-to-School, Back to You: Quick Skin Fixes for Busy Routines 

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Whether you’re a parent managing morning chaos, a teacher heading back into the classroom, or a student juggling classes and activities — your skin shouldn’t be another stressor on your list. The back-to-school season is a great time to refocus on self-care, starting with simple and effective ways to keep your skin clear, healthy, and glowing. 

Here are a few quick fixes and dermatologist-approved tips to help your skin stay on track, even on your busiest days. 

1. Streamline Your Skincare Routine 

When time is tight, consistency matters more than complexity. Build a simplified morning and evening routine with these essentials: 

  • Cleanser – Use a gentle cleanser to start and end your day fresh. 
  • Moisturizer – Hydrate and protect with a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer. 
  • Sunscreen – Even if you’re indoors most of the day, daily SPF 30+ is a must. 
  • Spot Treatment – Have a targeted product on hand for the occasional breakout. 

Bonus tip: Multitasking products (like tinted moisturizers with SPF or serums that hydrate and brighten) can save you time without sacrificing results. 

2. Try a Lunchtime Refresh with a HydraFacial 

Pressed for time? HydraFacials are quick, no-downtime treatments that cleanse, exfoliate, and deeply hydrate your skin in about 30 minutes. It’s an ideal way to reset your skin without interrupting your schedule — perfect for teachers and professionals on their lunch break. 

3. Breakout Control for Teens & Adults 

Back-to-school stress and mask-wearing can contribute to acne flare-ups. Whether it’s hormonal breakouts or stubborn blackheads, our dermatology team can recommend customized solutions — from prescription topicals to in-office acne treatments like extractions, blue light therapy, or chemical peels. 

4. Make Time for You 

While you’re taking care of everyone else this season, don’t forget to take care of yourself. A simple skincare reset can make you feel refreshed, confident, and ready to take on fall with your best face forward. 

Need Help Simplifying Your Skincare? 
Book a visit with our team for personalized product recommendations or time-saving cosmetic treatments that fit your lifestyle. We’ll help you look and feel your best — no matter how busy life gets. 

Sun-Damaged Skin? How to Repair and Rejuvenate After Summer 

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After months of sunshine, sunscreen, and outdoor fun, your skin might be showing signs that it’s ready for a little TLC. Even with the best sun protection, it’s common to notice the after-effects of summer — like sunspots, dryness, dullness, and rough texture. The good news? Fall is the perfect time to reset and repair your skin. 

Here’s how you can reverse sun damage and get your glow back with the help of professional treatments and dermatologist-recommended skincare. 

1. Treat Sunspots and Uneven Tone 

Sun exposure can trigger hyperpigmentation and dark spots — often referred to as sunspots or age spots. In-office treatments like chemical peels or laser therapies (such as IPL or Fraxel) can effectively break up excess pigment and brighten your complexion. These treatments are typically more effective (and safer) post-summer when your skin is less likely to be exposed to intense sun. 

2. Smooth Texture with Microneedling 

Microneedling stimulates collagen production, which helps improve the texture and tone of your skin while minimizing the appearance of fine lines and sun damage. It’s a gentle yet powerful way to encourage skin regeneration after a long summer. 

3. Hydrate and Repair with Medical-Grade Skincare 

A high-quality skincare routine is key to supporting your skin between treatments. Look for products that contain: 

  • Antioxidants (like Vitamin C) to protect and brighten 
  • Retinol or Retinoids to encourage cell turnover 
  • Hyaluronic acid to deeply hydrate and plump the skin 
  • Gentle exfoliants (like lactic or glycolic acid) to smooth and renew 

Not sure where to start? Our providers can help customize a skincare regimen tailored to your skin’s unique needs. 

4. Don’t Forget Preventive Care 

Repairing sun damage is important — but so is preventing future issues. Even as the weather cools down, continue using broad-spectrum SPF 30+ daily, especially if you’re receiving treatments that make your skin more sensitive to UV rays. 

Ready to Press Reset on Your Skin? 
Schedule a consultation with our team to discuss the best treatments and products to restore your post-summer skin. Fall is a great time to invest in your skin’s health — and we’re here to help every step of the way. 

Melasma & Hyperpigmentation in the Summer: What You Can Do 

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Summer sunshine may feel great, but for those struggling with melasma or hyperpigmentation, it can make skin concerns worse. These common pigmentation issues tend to darken with sun exposure, even when you’re careful. But don’t worry—there are smart ways to manage and treat discoloration, even during the sunniest season. 

Understanding Melasma & Hyperpigmentation 

  • Melasma often appears as brown or gray-brown patches, usually on the face (cheeks, forehead, upper lip). 
  • Hyperpigmentation is any darkening of the skin, often from acne scars, inflammation, or sun exposure. 

Both conditions are triggered or worsened by UV rays and visible light, making sun protection your #1 defense—especially in the summer. 

Why Summer Can Make It Worse 

Even with sunscreen, your skin is exposed to more sunlight during the warmer months. Heat, UV rays, and even visible light from the sun can all stimulate melanin production, which deepens discoloration. That’s why many patients see flare-ups or worsening pigmentation during the summer. 

What You Can Do 

☀️ Be Sun Smart (Every Day) 

  • Use broad-spectrum SPF 50+, and reapply every 2 hours, especially when outdoors. 
  • Wear wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and seek shade when possible. 
  • Consider adding a mineral-based tinted sunscreen to block visible light, which contributes to melasma. 

🧴 Stick to a Pigment-Fighting Routine 

Talk to your dermatologist before starting any new products, especially if you have sensitive skin. 

Treatments You Can Still Do in Summer 

Many patients think they have to wait until fall to treat pigmentation, but several safe and effective treatments are available year-round: 

  • Chemical Peels (gentle or light peels) – Can brighten and even out skin tone with little downtime. 
  • HydraFacial with Brightening Boosters – A summer-safe option to hydrate and treat dark spots. 
  • Topical Prescription Creams – Customized regimens from your dermatologist can make a big impact. 
  • Laser Treatments (in select cases) – Some low-risk lasers can be used cautiously on protected skin, depending on your skin type and lifestyle. 

Consistency is Key 

Melasma and hyperpigmentation can be stubborn, but with the right summer skincare strategy and professional guidance, you can minimize flare-ups and protect your progress. 

Not sure what’s right for your skin this season? Book a consultation with us to customize a safe, summer-ready pigmentation treatment plan. 

Men, It’s Time to Prioritize Your Skin: Essential Dermatology Tips for Men’s Health Month 

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June is Men’s Health Month—a time to raise awareness about the unique health issues men face and encourage preventative care. While fitness, heart health, and nutrition often take the spotlight, skin health is just as important—and often overlooked. 

At our dermatology practice, we see firsthand how common it is for men to delay skin check-ups or skip skincare altogether. This June, we’re encouraging all men to take charge of their skin with these simple yet impactful steps: 

1. Schedule a Skin Check 

Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers in men, particularly after age 50. In fact, men are more likely than women to develop melanoma, the most serious type of skin cancer. Annual full-body skin exams with a dermatologist can catch early warning signs—when they’re most treatable. 

Pro tip: If you spend a lot of time outdoors or have a history of sunburns, consider more frequent visits. 

2. Don’t Skip Sunscreen 

Men are less likely to wear sunscreen daily, but sun protection is essential year-round. Look for a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher and apply it to your face, neck, ears, and any exposed skin—even on cloudy days. 

Bonus: Many moisturizers now come with SPF built in—making sun protection a no-brainer. 

3. Keep It Simple (But Consistent) 

You don’t need a dozen products to take care of your skin. A basic regimen of: 

  • Gentle cleanser 
  • Moisturizer 
  • Daily sunscreen 

…is a great place to start. For concerns like razor bumps, acne, or signs of aging, a dermatologist can recommend targeted treatments. 

4. Pay Attention to Changes 

Notice a new spot that’s changing in shape, size, or color? Or a mole that looks different from the rest? These could be early signs of skin cancer. Don’t wait to have it looked at—early detection saves lives. 

Healthy Skin Is Part of a Healthy Life 
This Men’s Health Month, take a step toward better overall wellness by putting your skin on the priority list. Whether it’s booking a skin check, upgrading your skincare routine, or getting advice on common skin concerns, we’re here to help. 

Need to schedule your annual skin exam? Contact our office today to book an appointment. 

Watch Your Shadow: A Simple Trick to Stay Sun-Safe 

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May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month—a time to remind ourselves that small habits can make a big impact when it comes to preventing skin cancer. While sunscreen, hats, and regular skin checks are essential, here’s a surprisingly easy and memorable way to gauge your sun exposure risk: just look at your shadow. 

The Shadow Rule: A Natural UV Guide 

Here’s how it works: 
If your shadow is shorter than you are, the sun’s rays are strongest and most dangerous. 

This typically happens between 10 AM and 4 PM, when the sun is highest in the sky and UV radiation is most intense. When your shadow is longer than your body, UV levels are lower and sun exposure is less intense. 

It’s a simple rule of thumb that works for all ages—and you don’t need a weather app or UV index reading to use it. 

Why It Matters 

Most people don’t realize that UV exposure is the leading cause of skin cancer, including deadly melanoma. Even on cloudy days or cool spring mornings, harmful rays can penetrate the skin and lead to long-term damage. 

Using the shadow rule gives you an easy visual reminder to: 

  • Reapply sunscreen if you’re outdoors during peak hours 
  • Seek shade under a tree, umbrella, or canopy 
  • Wear protective clothing, like wide-brimmed hats and UV-blocking sunglasses 
  • Limit direct sun exposure when possible, especially for young children or those with fair skin 

Teach It, Share It, Live It 

The shadow rule is a great way to help kids learn sun safety in a fun and visual way. If you’re heading outdoors with family or friends, make a game out of checking your shadows and reminding each other to stay protected. 

This simple habit can be a daily reminder to respect the sun—without living in fear of it. 

Final Thoughts: Prevention Starts with Awareness 

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the U.S., but it’s also one of the most preventable. By adopting smart habits—like using your shadow as a UV indicator—you’re taking an important step in protecting your skin for life. 

If it’s been a while since your last skin check, May is the perfect month to schedule one. Early detection saves lives. 

Need help or have questions about sun protection? Our dermatology team is here for you. Call us or book online to schedule your skin check today.