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The most effective ways to reverse signs of aging on your neck

The skin on the face often takes center stage, leaving the skin on the neck neglected until the signs of aging begin to appear.  Loss of elastin and collagen leads to laxity of the skin, deeper set horizontal lines, and yes, sagging of the skin.  That’s why we feel the neck deserves just as much attention, for both prevention and correction, given its tendency to premature photo-aging.  

Understanding the Causes of Skin Aging on the neck:

  1. Repetitive Movement: The neck is constantly in motion, which leads to the formation of horizontal lines and wrinkles over time.

  2. Sun damage: Exposure to UVA and even visible light over your lifetime causes damage and degradation of your collagen, in addition to pigmentation.

  3. Chronological aging: Our skin naturally loses collagen as we enter our 30’s and 40’s, as collagen production comes to a grinding halt.

Solutions to Rejuvenate the Neck Skin:

  1. Let’s begin with the most practical preventative measure—applying sunscreen. It’s important to continue the application of sunscreen on your face downward on the neck. Using a broad spectrum sunscreen that blocks UVA, UVB and also visible light is recommended.
  2. Botox injections can be used to relax the muscle that causes “platysmal bands”, which are the vertical bands in our neck that pop out and become more prominent as we age.
  3. SkinVive is a micro-droplet hyaluronic filler that can target horizontal neck lines. By injecting this hydrating solution into the skin, it plumps and smooths the horizontal lines on the neck, restoring the smoothness while giving a hydrated and refreshed look to the skin.
  4. Sofwave uses advanced non-invasive ultrasound technology to stimulate collagen production and tighten collagen fibers deep within the skin. This treatment visibly lifts and tightens the neck, improving skin texture and elasticity.
  5. Morpheus8 combines microneedling with radiofrequency energy to remodel and rejuvenate the skin. This treatment penetrates deep into the dermis, promoting collagen production and tightening the neck.

Our Board Certified Dermatologists use the most advanced, non-invasive solutions to rejuvenate the neck.  Prevention and correction of skin aging on the neck is an essential part of a comprehensive skincare routine.   Don’t let your neck let down the show!

For more information or to schedule a consultation, please contact us at 203.764.2230 or visit www.greenwichpointdermatology.com

Introducing Sofwave: Breakthrough Skin-Tightening Technology

Sofwave™ is the most exciting advancement in skin tightening. If you’re looking for a non-invasive way to lift and tighten your skin in Greenwich, CT, this is it!

Sofwave™ is a treatment that uses fractional ultrasound waves to treat below the surface of your skin. This high-intensity energy stimulates hyaluronic acid, collagen and elastin production. These are essential structural proteins that strengthen your skin and contribute to elasticity and hydration – which we have an abundance of in our youth, but they diminishes over time as we age.

Lift, Tighten and Transform Your Skin

Sofwave technology works synergistically to combat the signs of aging by tightening the skin.

  • Eyebrow lift
  • Jowl reduction,
  • Neck tightening
  • Improved crepiness
  • Minimal discomfort
  • ZERO downtime
  • Safe for all skin types

The Science Behind Sofwave 

The depth for treating wrinkles is 1.5mm in the mid-dermis. Synchronous Ultrasound Parallel Beam SUPERB™ technology generates heat at this exact depth in the mid-dermis.

The impacted treatment zones stimulate a healing response, called neo-collagenases, which increases and regenerates the collagen in the skin, leading to the reduction in fine lines and wrinkles.

Click here for more information about Sofwave offered by our Board Certified Dermatologists in Greenwich, CT or call our office at 203.764.2230 to schedule an appointment.

Combination Cosmetic Treatments That Pack a One-Two Punch

Combination cosmetic treatments are an innovative, efficient, and effective solution for reviving your winter-weary skin! Our expertly curated treatments are designed to tackle multiple skin concerns in a single session, saving you time and giving your skin the comprehensive care it needs.

Whether it’s dullness, dryness, uneven skin tone, or lines and wrinkles, our combo laser treatments are here to give your skin a much-needed spring makeover.

Halo is a breakthrough dual-wavelength laser that offers deep dermal rejuvenation and addresses fine lines, wrinkles, pore size, and skin laxity without the long recovery associated with more aggressive resurfacing lasers.

Finish off your treatment with PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma) that is extracted and purified from your own blood, using our state-of-the-art Pure Spin technique. The PRP is injected back into the skin to regenerate and brighten your complexion, while dramatically improving the healing time.

Combine the cutting edge technology of intense-pulsed light (IPL) to brighten your skin while diminishing broken capillaries, treating acne and pigmentation with MOXI, a non-ablative laser energy to correct the initial signs of sun damage and aging for a glowing and clear complexion.

Take microneedling to a whole new level to achieve the ultimate in tightening and toning with the cutting-edge technology of combining microneedling with radiofrequency, aka Morpheus8. Layered with a microinfusion of hydration boosting SkinVive (hyaluronic acid), your skin will be smooth, plump and glowing with dramatic reduction in fine lines.

Lip Love: Strategies to Combat Lip Lines and Volume Loss

Lip lines can manifest at any age, regardless of whether one is a smoker or not. They are an inevitable outcome of our aging process, as we continually talk, smile, laugh and kiss throughout our lifetime.  These repetitive facial movements (especially lip pursing) can exacerbate the formation of these lines, along with prolonged sun exposure and a decline in collagen levels.

While lip lines are indeed a testament to a life filled with expressions, many individuals seek solutions to diminish and smooth the lines surrounding their mouths. A consistent skincare regimen with sun protection can certainly help, but for those seeking more transformative results, our deep resurfacing laser treatment offers a remarkable solution.

Contour TRL stands as the pinnacle of laser resurfacing, penetrating deep into the skin to remove surface imperfections while simultaneously stimulating collagen production in the underlying layers. Expect nothing short of a dramatic reduction in wrinkles and lines, coupled with a noticeable tightening of the peri-oral (mouth) skin.

Targeting Volume Loss in Lips

Much like the skin surrounding the mouth, the lips themselves undergo a reduction in collagen and hyaluronic acid production as part of the aging process. This loss of volume is further compounded by the redistribution of facial fat pads, which alters the natural contours of the face, including the lips. Addressing volume loss necessitates a tailored and strategic approach.

We proudly offer injectable hyaluronic acid fillers that effectively restore volume and hydration, resulting in a rejuvenated and more youthful appearance for the lips. Our Board-Certified Dermatologists meticulously customize treatments to suit each patient’s unique facial anatomy, ensuring natural-looking and personalized results.

Targeting Volume Loss in Lips

Our Derm’s Hot Tips for the Lips

While an array of factors contribute to lip lines and volume loss, incorporating these simple practices into your routine can help prevent their formation:

Stay Hydrated (without the straw): Keep your skin hydrated by drinking ample water, as dehydration can exacerbate fine lines and wrinkles. Opt for a lip hydrator like Irene Forte Pistachio Lip Balm (available at our brilliant Boutique) or any other nourishing product to seal in moisture and alleviate dryness.

USE SPF: Choose a lip balm with added SPF to provide dual hydration and protection when exposed to the sun. We recommend MD Solar Sciences Lip Balm with SPF.

Gentle Skincare: Use skincare products around your lips with caution (we’re looking at you retinol), opting for gentle cleansers and moisturizers tailored for sensitive skin to avoid irritation.

Exfoliate: Combat chapped lips by gently exfoliating with a wet washcloth.

Don’t Smoke: We know you wouldn’t dream of it 😉

If you’re interested in improving the skin or enhancing your lips, book a consultation with one of our Board Certified Dermatologists to discuss your personalized treatment options. 203.764.2230 

Be A Glow Getter: Banishing Hyperpigmentation

Hyperpigmentation, including melasma, dark spots or “age” spots, is a frequent skin concern that our patients share with us. The culprit behind the discoloration is our skin’s pigment-producing powerhouse: melanin. Melanin is a natural pigment responsible for skin, hair, and eye color. However, when our skin is exposed to various triggers, it can lead to irregular melanin production and distribution, resulting in patches of darker skin.

What Causes Hyperpigmentation?

UV Exposure: Prolonged sun exposure without adequate protection can cause damage to the skin surface and overproduction of melanin. This often leads to the formation of sunspots, freckles, and uneven skin tone.

Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH): After a battle with acne, wounds, or skin inflammation, the skin’s natural response is to produce excess melanin in the affected area. This results in darker patches, which can linger long after the initial issue has resolved.

Hormones: Pregnancy, birth control, and natural hormonal fluctuations can trigger melanin production. Melasma, a specific type of hyperpigmentation, often occurs due to hormonal shifts.

Aging: As we age, our skin’s ability to regulate melanin becomes less efficient, leading to the development of age spots or lentigines.

Unveiling Glowing Skin: 

Your path to even skin starts here!

Sunscreen: Your Skin’s Best Friend

Not surprising coming from Board Certified Dermatologists, the first step in your journey to even skin tone is a high-quality, broad-spectrum sunscreen. Shield your skin from harmful UV rays to prevent further melanin production and protect existing melanin from becoming more pronounced. Our favorites include mineral sunscreens from MD Solar Sciences and Alastin Hydratint.  Find a variety of choices in our Brilliant Boutique.

Skincare with Precision: Topical Treatments

Invest in skincare products that contain ingredients like vitamin C, niacinamide, melatonin, tranexamic acid and alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs). These ingredients can regulate melanin production, gently exfoliate the skin, and promote cellular turnover.

Professional Treatments: Our Favorite Procedures 

These in-office procedures can significantly reduce, if not eliminate, your troubling brown spots!

  1. Lumecca:  Lumecca is a breakthrough IPL that delivers visible results after the first session with no downtime.
  2. MOXI: Erase pigmentation and Melasma and speed up cell turnover with this non-ablative treatment that lightens, brightens and refreshes the skin. (3-5 days recovery)
  3. HALO: Eliminate years of sun damage and restore your skin’s luminosity.  (5-7 days recovery)

Patience and Consistency

Remember, achieving glowing skin is a marathon, not a sprint. Consistency is key when incorporating new products into your routine. Give your skin time to adapt and renew itself.

Healthy Lifestyle Habits for Glowing Skin

Don’t underestimate the influence of a balanced diet, adequate hydration, and stress management on your skin’s health. Nourishing your body from within reflects positively on your complexion.

Our team of Board Certified Dermatologists can provide a personalized route even, radiant skin. Book a consultation by calling 203.764.2230

Hair S0S: End of Summer Hair Savers from Board Certified Dermatologists

As the end of August approaches, you may have noticed that your hair looks and feels like it’s been put through the wringer. UV rays, saltwater and chlorine can all wreak havoc on your hair – and your scalp.  As Board Certified Dermatologists, we are trained to treat skin conditions and have a deep understanding about hair, and hair loss, and what you can do to achieve healthy, shiny locks. 

Understanding Hair and Scalp Health

The hair and scalp undergo a constant cycle of growth, rest, and shedding. Factors like genetics, diet, hormones, and even stress play a significant role in the health of the hair and scalp.  These elements, along with prolonged sun, salt and chlorine exposure, lead to big summer hair problems such as color fading, weakened hair proteins, and brittle strand breakage. 

Just like healthy soil yields vibrant plants, a healthy scalp is the foundation for strong, beautiful hair. Scalp issues like dandruff, psoriasis, and seborrheic dermatitis can impact hair health. If you have persistent scalp issues it’s important to see a Board Certified Dermatologist who can properly diagnose and treat these medical conditions. 

Our Derm-tested Tips To Bring Your Hair Back To Life. 

  1. Rinse and Condition: Washing too frequently can lead to dryness. While infrequent washing may cause product buildup. Aim for washing your hair 2-3x per week and use the rinse and condition method in between shampoos.  This helps to distribute your hair’s natural oils and condition the ends, while buying time in between wash days.
  2. Mindful Styling: Excessive heat styling can damage hair. Opt for heat protectant sprays and use lower heat settings. Better yet, embrace your natural texture to give your hair a break.
  3. Stress Management: Chronic stress can lead to hair loss. Engage in relaxation techniques like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing to keep stress in check.  Drink plenty of water, and ensure you’re getting quality sleep to support the hair’s growth phase.
  4. Balanced Diet and Supplementation: Just like your skin, your hair benefits from a balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and protein. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish and flaxseeds, contribute to scalp health. We love AETHERN Ultimate Hair Booster, a drinkable daily-dosed supplement that promotes hair growth, for its proprietary blend of vitamins and minerals including Vitamins B, Niacin, Folic Acid, Biotin, Magnesium and Selenium. Pick up your 30-day supply in our Brilliant Boutique.
  5. Hormone check: As we enter midlife and our hormone balance shifts (for both men and women), our hair follicles can really suffer.  Topical and oral prescription medication can dramatically reduce hair loss, improve hair thickness, and help you regrow your youthful locks.  Our Board-Certified Dermatologists specialize in customized prescription treatment plans to address your individual hormonal profile.
  6. PRP Treatment for Hair Loss: For those struggling with hair loss and lack-lustre strands, our absolute fave treatment is Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy.  PRP is highly effective and clinically proven to improve hair density and thickness, while preventing hair loss. This procedure involves extracting your blood, separating the platelets, and injecting the PRP into the scalp. Platelets contain growth factors that stimulate hair follicles, promoting hair growth. PRP is a safe, non-surgical option that has shown promising results for many patients.  Ask our Board-Certified Dermatologists if PRP might help your thinning hair!

To book an appointment contact 203.764.2230

Welcome Dr. Alexandra Labiak to Greenwich Point Dermatology!

We are thrilled to officially welcome Dr Alexandra Labiak as the newest Physician to join the Greenwich Point Dermatology family!  We sat down with Dr Labiak to discuss her passion for dermatology, her enthusiasm for working in Greenwich, and to spill her secrets to glowing skin!

Why did you want to become a dermatologist? 

Growing up, I absolutely loved spending time outdoors in the sun. I remember how my mission during any vacation was to get as tan as I could (eeek!). It wasn’t until medical school that I learned how dangerous and damaging the sun’s UV rays were on my skin; I couldn’t believe my carelessness for all those years! I started to learn more about skin cancer and this opened my eyes to the fascinating field of dermatology. After doing a dermatology elective in my medical school at the University of Michigan, I was sold! I absolutely love seeing patients of all ages and performing a variety of procedures daily– skin cancer excisions, cyst extractions, acne surgery, cosmetic rejuvenation, and laser resurfacing. I also loved that each day was so different and there was such a breadth of skin concerns–acne, eczema, psoriasis, rashes, autoimmune diseases, and more. I knew for certain dermatology was what I wanted to dedicate my career to!

What most excites you about joining Greenwich Point Dermatology? 

The opportunity to work alongside the amazing team of doctors, MAs, nurses, and staff that make up Greenwich Point Dermatology! From the first minute I walked into GPD and met Dr. Dolder, I could tell that this was a really special community that genuinely cares about their patients and their patients’ experience in the dermatologist’s office. I am thrilled to be joining this team and helping to take care of patients in the Greenwich area!

What skincare trends are worth it – which would you skip? 

To be honest, I’m not one to follow skin care trends that come and go. I think consistency in your skin care routine is KEY! Figuring out which products work for you, your skin type, and your skin concerns–and then using those products regularly–is what will help your skin glow and have you feeling your best! I am certainly open to new technologies that arise that will help boost your skin (new lasers or devices, etc), but I believe that this should also be incorporated into your skin care routine in a regular way (i.e. every few months).

What does your perfect day look like? 

My ideal day definitely starts off with being active! Whether it’s a long run in the park, a barre/pilates class, or playing tennis with my husband–nothing beats getting those morning endorphins and setting the tone for the rest of the day! My perfect day would also be one that is filled with activities, spending time with friends or my family, and having the opportunity to enjoy some delicious meals.

What are your skincare non-negotiables?

My one non-negotiable is most definitely sunscreen! I love a tinted formulation for my face – it adds the perfect touch to my morning skincare routine and protects me from those harmful UV rays. You can ask anyone who knows me – I always have a little tube on me, stashed away somewhere in my purse/backpack/fanny pack….ready to reapply and to share with whoever I’m with!

Dr. Labiak sees patients for medical, surgical or cosmetic dermatology from Monday – Friday. Call 203.764.2230 to book your appointment.

Rosy Revelations: How we treat Rosacea

It’s hard to wear a poker face when you suffer from rosacea. You can be experiencing excitement, embarrassment or stress… but when you have rosacea, your feelings are often expressed all over your face. If you don’t want your emotions to wear center stage on your skin, listen up!  Our team of Board Certified Dermatologists often treat patients who suffer from rosacea and are here to share their trusted tips to help fix the flush.  

What is Rosacea? 

Rosacea is a chronic skin disorder that primarily affects the central face, including the cheeks, nose, chin, and forehead. It is characterized by persistent redness, visible blood vessels (telangiectasia), papules or pustules (they look like pimples but aren’t), and in some cases, thickened skin. It typically begins after the age of 30 and affects both men and women, although it is more commonly diagnosed in fair-skinned individuals. The scope and severity of rosacea is wide and differs dramatically from patient to patient, which is why it’s so important to be seen and treated by a Board Certified Dermatologist.   

Why do you get Rosacea? 

The origins of rosacea are not fully understood by the medical community.  While the exact pathway of inflammation in rosacea remains elusive, several factors are believed to contribute to its development. These include: 

Genetics

Hormones

Exposure to UV and heat 

Skin Barrier irritations, like all those skin lotions and potions you have ever tried 😉

Although rosacea is a chronic condition, avoiding triggers is an important way to minimize flare ups to keep the condition at bay. Triggers can include a lot of common (and yes, things you love) like spicy foods, chocolate, alcohol, active skin care products, sun exposure and saunas.

Our Dermatologists’ Rosacea Recommendations:

An appointment with one of our Board Certified Dermatologists will help determine your specific treatment plan for rosacea, but in general we recommend the following to our patients seeking redness relief.

Edit your elaborate skincare regimen: Opt instead for a gentle skincare routine to protect the skin barrier.  Mild, fragrance-free skincare products are recommended and avoid harsh cleansers or abrasive scrubs. Use a gentle moisturizer daily to keep the skin hydrated and protect the skin barrier.

Lumecca:  Our Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) treatments target visible blood vessels and reduces redness associated with rosacea. This has an anti-inflammatory effect and dampens the pathway of Rosacea long term.  We customize the settings based on your skin tone and severity of redness.  It uses gentle pulses of light to heat and destroy dilated micro-blood vessels, leading to a reduction in redness and flushing.

Prescription Medication: There are a variety of prescription topical and oral medications that can be used to treat rosacea.  These work in various ways to reduce the inflammation and redness. Work with your doctor to discuss the best option for your skin.

Avoiding the sun entirely is not realistic, but for rosacea sufferers,  using the right SPF will make a big difference in how your skin reacts to UV rays. Our Dermatologists recommend using all mineral sunscreens that block the rays physically and reflect UV light away from the skin.

We’ve highlighted our favorites from our Brilliant Boutique.

MD Solar Mineral Creme – a silky smooth formula that feels like cashmere on your skin

Elta MD UV Elements – mineral-based UV filters work with ultra-hydrating hyaluronic acid to protect and hydrate the skin.

Alastin HydraTint – no need for foundation post application, this formula evens skin tone and gives it a glow

Skin Better Tone Smart Lotion –  a tone-adapting, creamy lotion that provides a hint of color.

Living with rosacea can be challenging, but with the right treatment approach, it is possible to manage and control the symptoms. As Dermatologists, we emphasize the importance of seeking professional help for an accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plan.  

Bright Days Ahead: Sun Protection and Style, exclusively from Australia

As a Board Certified Dermatologist who spent her childhood on the sunny beaches of Australia,  Dr. Dolder knows a great deal about the importance of safeguarding your skin from the sun. Which is why she hand-picked sun protective wear to stock our Brilliant Boutique that is as effective at blocking UV rays as it is high on style, craftsmanship and fit. 

RASHGUARDS

The ACQUA Brands specializes in creating innovative, luxury designs that keep you safe from the sun’s harsh rays. Their pieces are designed, crafted, and manufactured in Sydney, Australia of the highest quality, most sustainable fabrics. 

ACQUA’s Italian sourced lycra fabric, with its fine, matte finish uses recycled nylon fibers to conserve resources and has proven to be two times more resistant to chlorine and sunscreens than competitors’ fabrics. Inspired by style and the sea, their rashguards make the perfect water accessory.  

Visit our practice to purchase ACQUA exclusive Rashguards.  Colors and sizes are limited so shop early! 

HATS, SUNSCREEN, SUNNIES!

New summer styles from Helen Kaminski hats, and an assortment of dermatologist-recommended sunscreens from trusted brands EltaMD, MD Solar Sciences, ISDIN and Alastin are also available in our Brilliant Boutique.  Saks downstairs has the sunnies covered 😉

Pack your sunnies, a wide-brimmed hat, ACQUA rashguard and SPF 30+, and you’ll have the ultimate dermatologist approved beach beauty bag!