Dr. Lopez belongs to the American Academy of Dermatologists (AAD). This international organization provides ongoing training for dermatologists to keep their professional skills sharp. It also provides good information about dermatology issues for the general public. Please visit the iTunes store to download a free iPhone app for information at your fingertips. More health tips […]
24December
2011
Cold Sores: how to prevent and how to attenuate! Oral (labial) herpes is a viral infection characterized by vesicles or erosions that appear on lips or mouth angles, it is also known as “cold sores”. It is usually caused by one of the herpes virus (the HSV-1) which in most cases is not sexually transmitted). Once you have the virus this one remains in your organism, hence you could get this labial lesions on and off during your life. You can find here different ways to prevent these lesions (or avoid recurrence): ?Avoid contracting initial infection by not sharing lip balms o lip protectors, toothbrush or even drinks with persons who might be infected with the virus. The virus that produces the labial herpes is transmitted through the saliva and through direct contact with the skin. ? The people who have already caught the infection know it can be reactivated with sun exposure, by stressful situations or when the person gets ill (in some women it appears during menstrual period too!) Another good reason to exercise your body frequently, acquire good eating habits, get a good sleep and use sunblock! If you already have a labial herpes follow these tips […]
25December
2011
Acne This is a disease of the pilosebaceous unit. It’s very common, affecting approximately 85% of young people. It may even appear first when you are 25 years or older. Emotional stress can definitely cause it to get worse. Occlusion and pressure on the skin (acne mechanica), such as by leaning your face on your hands, is very important and is often unrecognized as a factor that makes it worse. How can a dermatologist help? Depending on its severity, acne can be controlled with chemical peels, oral medicines, gels, creams or a combination of these.
23January
2012
Myths about acne. You think you know everything there is to know about acne? You would be surprised to know that many things people say about acne, what’s it’s cause and how to treat it, are really wrong! Myth #1: Getting tanned improves your skin. Reality: Although a tan could mask temporarily acne, sun causes irritation and dryness in the skin, which leads to successive future acne outbreaks. As a matter of fact there is no link between acne prevention and sun exposure, worse the solar rays could cause premature aging and cancer. Protect your skin every time you go outdoors with a sunblock with a minimum SPF of 15 and that it doesn’t clog your pores (non comedogenic). Myth #2: Chocolate and greasy food cause acne. Reality: Well, eating sugars and fat is never a good idea, but research studies have demonstrated that no food has a proven effect of causing acne, but don’t forget everyone is different. Some people have notice they get acne after the ingestion of certain meals, and these vary with every person. For instance some people develop acne after eating lots of chocolate but some other after drinking several cups of coffee. If this […]
26June
2014
Dr. Lopez belongs to the American Academy of Dermatologists (AAD). This international organization provides ongoing training for dermatologists to keep their professional skills sharp. It also provides good information about dermatology issues for the general public. Please visit the iTunes store to download a free iPhone app for information at your fingertips. More health tips at your fingertips Derm A-Z
10October
2015
While aging is a natural process, it’s also natural to wish for the skin of your youth. Our dermatology practice offers some medically sound cosmetic procedures that can help slow down the signs of aging and improve the overall health of your skin. The procedures are performed by Dr. Lopez himself in a private medical clinic. The cost of these procedures is outlined below. Causes of aging skin Intrinsic (internal) aging, also known as the natural aging process, is a continuous process that normally begins in our mid-20s. Within the skin, collagen production slows, and elastin, the substance that enables skin to snap back into place, has a bit less spring. Dead skin cells do not shed as quickly and turnover of new skin cells may decrease slightly. While these changes usually begin in our 20s, the signs of intrinsic aging are typically not visible for decades. The signs of intrinsic aging are: Fine wrinkles Thin and transparent skin Loss of underlying fat, leading to hollowed cheeks and eye sockets as well as noticeable loss of firmness on the hands and neck Bones shrink away from the skin due to bone loss, which causes sagging skin Dry skin that may […]
10October
2015
Jellyfish stings can vary greatly in severity. Most often they result in immediate pain and red, irritated marks on the skin. Some jellyfish stings may cause more whole-body (systemic) illness, and in rare cases, are life-threatening. Most jellyfish stings get better with home treatment, but severe reactions require emergency medical care. Here’s Dr. Lopez’ professional advice about the topic. Causes Jellyfish tentacles contain microscopic barbed stingers (nematocysts). Each nematocyst is made up of a tiny bulb that holds venom and a coiled, sharp-tipped tube. The jellyfish uses the venom to protect itself and kill prey. When something comes in contact with the tentacle — a fish or a human — tiny triggers on the surface of the tentacle release the nematocysts. The sharp tube penetrates the skin and releases the venom, which affects the immediate area of contact and may enter the bloodstream. Jellyfish that have washed up on a beach may still release venomous stingers if touched. Prevention The following tips can help you avoid jellyfish stings: Wear a protective suit. When swimming or diving in areas where jellyfish stings are possible, wear a wetsuit or other protective clothing. Avoid water during jellyfish season. Stay out of the water […]
20October
2015
Spider & Varicose Veins Varicose veins affect half of people 50 years and older. Varicose veins are enlarged veins that can be blue, red, or flesh-colored. They are often found on the thighs, backs of the calves, or the inside of the leg. Spider veins are like varicose veins but smaller. They also are closer to the surface of the skin than varicose veins. Often, they are red or blue. They can be found on the legs and face and can cover either a very small or very large area of skin. Some other common symptoms of varicose veins in the legs include: pain that gets worse after sitting or standing for a long time, cramps, swelling, heaviness, rash or darkening of the skin and finally an ulcer (most advanced stage). A dermatologist has several ways to treat varicose veins.
20October
2015
Age Spots, Brown Spots These result from having a lot of melanocytes in one area of your skin due to acute (extreme) or chronic (regular) exposure to sunlight. They only appear in exposed areas: forehead, cheeks, nose, dorsa of hands and forearms, upper back, chest, or shins. They usually appear in adults older than 40, but in sunny climates they may even appear by age 30. How can a dermatologist help? Brown spots can possibly be removed by a dermatologist. If you have any suspicious spots on your skin, please be sure to have them checked regularly.
20October
2015
Photoepilation is the best method to control unwanted hair growth. The advantages that photoepilation offers both men and women over the traditional methods for hair reduction (i.e. waxing, threading, shaving) are: Its long lasting results (months to years!) It is not painful It doesn’t stimulate hair growth nor makes hair become thicker (unlike shaving), No “razor bumps” or irritation that last days Zero downtime Is it a safe treatment? Photoepilation is a very safe procedure: the settings for the IPL equipment are adjusted to the patient’s individual characteristics such as skin complexion and sensitivity always prioritizing the safety and comfort of our patients. In our clinic, Dr Jorge Lopez-Granja himself performs the procedure.You can’t be in better hands! How much does it cost? Don’t be concerned that just because the clinic is located in a private hospital your bill for IPL hair reduction will be huge. IPL is surprisingly affordable for the results that are expected. Each area of the body can be treated separately, so you can come in for as little as just an upper lip treatment. Back: $315 (All prices shown in US dollars) Shoulders (men): $210 Legs(knee to ankle): $315 Upper lip & chin: $175 Upper lip […]
20October
2015
When we’re outdoors, we know we should protect our skin from the sun and it’s harmful rays. Of course that doesn’t mean you’ll spend your summer in your room when there are so many fun things to do outdoors. Besides, not everything related to the sun is bad. The solar light helps our body with the production of vitamin D. Don’t overdo it though; 5 minutes of solar exposure is enough. You can follow these advices to avoid the fotoaging on your skin: ?Use a sunblock with a solar protection factor (SPF) of 15 as a minimum, even if it’s cloudy or if you’re planning to go outdoors for just a while. If you get wet, swimming in a pool or at the beach for example, repeat the application of your sunblock every two or three hours (it doesn’t matter if it’s “water resistant”). ?Choose a solar protection cream which is able to retain the UVA rays as well as UVB. Look for “wide spectrum” protection or UVA protection with at least 15 SPF. Prefer a “non comedogenic” solar cream to maintain your skin’s pores clean. ?The solar rays are stronger between 10 am and 4 pm, thus during these hours repeat the application […]
20October
2015
More commonly known as sun spots, melasma has an asymptomatic and chronic evolution, with the appearance of light brown to darker spots mostly in the face area, and it is intensified through the exposition to solar light, pregnancy, anticonceptive pills and with the use of certain cosmetic products. It affects all races, but it’s more frequent in tropical regions. It’s more frequent in women between 30 and 45 years, but it can affect men and boys too. It occurs in 66% of pregnant women, and it diminishes or disappears after labour; one third of the cases it remains in an indefinite way. One can treat Melasma with different applied substances or even with chemical dermoexfoliation (peeling), but no treatment will be effective if the patient doesn’t protect himself from solar light with using physical (hat, cap) or chemical (sunblock) ways. An improvement can be observed in average after 3 months of treatment. The use of natural substances and other pharmaceutical products have a risk of causing contact dermatitis (burns), white spots or even darker spots; the guide and supervision of a specialist (dermatologist) is recommended. The Dermatologist should investigate the possible causes of the spots, the type of skin of […]
20October
2015
Automated Micro-Needling (also known as Collagen Induction Therapy or CIT) is a new innovation in aesthetic medicine for treating the appearance of fine lines, acne scars and improvement of the skin’s overall appearance. During this procedure, the Eclipse MicroPen is used to create controlled micro-injuries to the skin in order to produce collagen and elastin. The skin’s repair process results in improvement of the appearance of softer wrinkles. Automated micro-needling also creates superficial micro-channels which can be used with topical gels, creams and serums to help improve the appearance of the skin. What Are The Benefits? The benefits of micro-needling can included a reduction in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, younger-looking skin with fewer signs of aging. Eclipse MicroPen™ may also has a positive effect on the appearance of hyper-pigmentation, hypo-pigmentation, acne scars, traumatic scars and stretch marks and generally creates a fresher appearance or glow to the skin. What Areas Of The Body Can be Treated? Eclipse MicroPen™ can be used on all parts of the body, including the: face, neck, décolleté, arms, hands, legs, abdomen and back. How Is The Procedure Done? A sterile cartridge containing 12 points is attached to the Eclipse MicroPen™. Dr. Lopez will apply a thin layer […]
21October
2015
Eczema is a term for a group of medical conditions that cause the skin to become inflamed or irritated. No matter which part of the skin is affected, eczema is almost always itchy. Affected areas usually appear very dry, thickened, or scaly. In fair-skinned people, these areas may initially appear reddish and then turn brown. Among darker-skinned people, eczema can affect pigmentation, making the affected area lighter or darker. The goal of treatment for eczema is to relieve and prevent itching, which can lead to infection. Since the disease makes skin dry and itchy, lotions and creams are recommended to keep the skin moist. These products are usually applied when the skin is damp, such as after bathing, to help the skin retain moisture.
26October
2015
Nail fungus is a fungal infection in one or more of your nails. An infection with nail fungus may begin as a white or yellow spot under the tip of your fingernail or toenail. As the nail fungus spreads deeper into your nail, it may cause your nail to discolor, thicken and develop crumbling edges — an unsightly and potentially painful problem. An infection with a nail fungus may be difficult to treat, and it may recur. But medications are available to help clear up nail fungus.
26October
2015
Rosacea is a common facial acne-like disorder affecting middle-aged and older adults, particularly the fair-skinned. Many patients have a significant flush or blush that might be precipitated by hot liquids, hot sauce, alcohol and sun exposure. Depending on the severity of the condition rosacea could be treated with oral or topical medications.
26October
2015
Known by brand names Botox® and Xeomin®, this is a procedure that can erase years from the face or neck by reducing the appearance of lines and wrinkles. Because the injections are quick, side effects minimal, and the procedure does not generally require downtime, this is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures in the world. Generally, the results last about 3 to 4 months. as the effects gradually fade, the muscle action returns and lines are seen. Treatment can usually be repeated as the effects wear off. Treatment areas can include: Crow’s feet Forehead lines Frown lines between the eyebrows Neck bands and lines Here’s a great article from WebMD describing the treatment. The cost for Botox® or Xeomin® injections by Dr. Lopez is determined by the number of units injected. In general, the brow/forehead area will cost approximately US $300 to treat.
26October
2015
Photo-thermal rejuvenation is a skin treatment that uses intense pulsed light (IPL) and radiofrequency (RF) to treat some skin conditions and remove wrinkles arising from photoaging. The process induces controlled wounds on the skin, prompting it to heal itself by creating new cells. This process reverses the effects of photoaging to a certain extent by removing wrinkles, reducing spider veins and promoting healthier, more even-toned skin. The cost for IPL facial rejuvenation begins at US $150 per session. RF treatment begins at US $100 for an area like crow’s feet, and costs US $200 for the whole face.
26October
2015
This procedure peels away many visible signs of aging on the face, hands, neck and chest. After the skin heals, fewer wrinkles, less discoloration and improved texture may be seen. Chemical peeling is also suitable for younger people. Some people in their 20s and 30s opt for a mild chemical peel to prevent signs of aging from appearing too early. Chemical peels are a valuable option as part of the treatment regime for acne. The cost for a chemical peel by Dr. Lopez starts at US $120.
27October
2015
These may be upsetting, but they usually are not caused by serious medical problems. Hair loss, including thinning and breaking, is the most common scalp problem. Most people lose from 50 to 100 hairs per day. Some possible causes for severe hair loss are: damage to the hair from hair care products, (dyes and permanents, curling irons, or hair dryers), recent surgery, high fever, or emotional stress, or poor nutrition (especially lack of protein or iron in the diet).
27October
2015
Melasma Melasma appears as a symmetrical blotchy, brownish pigmentation on the face. The pigmentation is due to overproduction of melanin by the pigment cells, melanocytes. It can lead to considerable embarassment and distress. The cause of melasma is complex. There is a genetic predisposition to melasma, with at least one-third of patients reporting other family members to be affected. In most people melasma is a chronic disorder. There are several known triggers for melasma: sun exposure (the most important avoidable risk factor), pregnancy, hormone treatments (including oral contraceptive pills), scented or deodorant soaps, toiletries and cosmetics, etc. More commonly, it arises in apparently healthy, normal, non-pregnant adults and persists for decades. Exposure to ultraviolet radiation (UVR) deepens the pigmentation because it activates the melanocytes. Melasma can be very slow to respond to treatment, so patience is necessary. Start gently, especially if you have sensitive skin. Harsh treatments may result in irritant contact dermatitis, and this can result in postinflammatory pigmentation.
27October
2015
Scars & Scar Correction Scars are permanent and affect a person’s self esteem, especially when located on visible body areas. Vicious scars could even go beyond the original injured skin (keloids) or raise above the skin (hypertrophic scars). The correction of the scars could be achieved through surgery and intralesional therapy, both techniques being offered at our clinic.
27October
2015
STDs (Sexually Transmitted Diseases) Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are infections that you can get from having sex with someone who is already infected. The causes of STDs are bacteria, parasites and viruses. There are more than 20 types of STDs, including HPV (genital warts), chlamydia, genital herpes, gonorrhea, HIV/AIDS, and syphilis. Most STDs affect both men and women, but in many cases the health problems they cause can be more severe for women. If a pregnant woman has an STD, it can cause serious health problems for the baby. If you have an STD caused by bacteria or parasites, it could be treated and cured; if you have an STD caused by a virus, there is no cure. Sometimes medicines can keep the disease under control. Correct usage of latex condoms greatly reduces, but does not completely eliminate, the risk of catching or spreading STDs.
27October
2015
Sun Damage Aging speeds up in those areas exposed to sunlight, a process known as photoaging. Photoaging, or sun damage, results in fine lines and wrinkles, discoloration and textural changes. The epidermis becomes thinner so the skin easily blisters and tears. The skin feels dry because it is less able to hold onto water. Overactivity of tanning cells (melanocytes) results in blotchy pigmentation with brown freckles, solar lentigines (age spots) and white marks. It has been recently shown that the regular use of sunscreen could reduce the aging of the skin by about 25%. We do offer cosmetic services in our clinic that can help improve the appearance of sun-damaged skin.
18June
2016
Healthier Skin for the Summer An interview with Dr. Lopez by Channel 5 Belize.
