What is Cosmetic Dermatology?

If you have seen the popular TV series Nip/Tuck, you probably have a fairly good idea of what cosmetic surgery is all about (though most plastic surgeons in real life do not have messy affairs with their patients or even have time to date hundreds of glamorous women). Long Beach cosmetic dermatology is a sub-specialty of this area. Now, while all plastic surgeons have experience in this field, not all who work in Long Beach cosmetic dermatology are necessarily surgeons. Although many of these doctors are trained to do liposuction, face lifts, rhinoplasty (nose jobs) and blepheroplasty (eyelid surgery), many limit their practice to non-surgical, non-invasive Long Beach skin rejuvenation techniques.

Either way, you'll have many different options when it comes to Long Beach cosmetic dermatology treatments.

Long Beach Skin Rejuvenation Options

Many cosmetic dermatologists use Botox, which is an injection that has been very effective in reducing minor age-related wrinkles around the eyes and forehead. Another option is Restylane, a proprietary treatment that can help restore smoother, more youthful-looking skin. One of the most powerful treatments in the dermatologist's arsenal however is isotretinoin, marketed under the brand name Accutane.

Are Long Beach Accutane treatments right for you? This is an issue that you will need to discuss with your doctor. While it is one of the most effective skin treatments on the market (particularly for acne), it may not be right for everyone.

About Accutane

Accutane was first approved by the FDA in 1982. Since that time, Long Beach Accutane treatments have been used very successfully for severe acne; indeed, some have hailed it as a "miracle drug." Another condition that Accutane can help is rosacea, a form of UV skin damage known as xeroderma pigmentosa.

There are some potentially serious side effects, though most of these are rare. Under FDA regulations however, dermatologists must register any patients for whom they prescribe the drug, and the dispensing pharmacist is required to consult with the website of the U.S. isotretinoin distribution program iPLEDGE. In addition, the patient may not receive more than a 30-day supply at one time.

Most importantly, women who are pregnant must not take Accutane under any circumstances, as this medication has been known to cause birth defects.

It is important to consult with your Long Beach dermatology expert and explore all of the cosmetic skin care and rejuvenation options available to you.

Susan Slobac is a consultant in the skin care industry. Susan writes about trends in Long Beach cosmetic dermatology & Long Beach Accutane treatments.