Vibrant Dermatology

Book SkinBar MD Book Dermatology
(617) 250-0257
MENU
  • HOME
  • SHOP
  • ABOUT US
    • Meet Dr. Ip
    • Meet Our Staff
    • Why Vibrant Dermatology
    • Dr. Ip In the News
    • Featured Videos
    • Blog
    • Get Dr. Ip’s E-Book
    • Gap Year Program
    • Contact Us
  • Patient Resources
    • Appointment Policies
    • Insurance Information
  • Before and Afters
  • (617) 250-0257
  • (617) 540-5524
  • online bill pay
  • Book an Appointment
  • Medical Dermatology
    • Acne
    • Allergic Reactions
    • Autoimmune Disorders
    • Benign Growths: Seborrheic Keratoses, Skin Tags
    • Birthmarks, Brown Spots, Moles
    • Cysts
    • Eczema/Rashes
    • Excessive Sweating (Hyperhidrosis)
    • Hair Loss
    • Hives
    • Hyperpigmentation/Brown Spots
    • Keloids
    • Lipomas
    • Melanoma
    • Melasma
    • Nail Fungus
    • Psoriasis
    • Scars
    • Shingles
    • Skin Cancer
    • Skin of Color
    • Vitiligo
  • Surgical Dermatology
    • Cyst Removal
    • Lipoma Removal
    • Mole and Benign Lesion Removal
    • Skin Cancer Surgery
  • Pediatric Dermatology
    • Acne
    • Birthmarks
    • Eczema
    • Moles and Brown Spots
    • Skin Allergies
    • Skin Cancer
  • Cosmetic Dermatology
    • Aqua Facial
    • Neurotoxin (Jeuveau)
    • Chemical Peels
    • Era Elite Laser
    • Hair Loss Treatment
    • IPL Treatment
    • Juvederm
    • Kerafactor
    • LaseMD
    • Laser Treatment for Facial Veins
    • Melasma & Hyperpigmentation Treatments
    • NeoClear Laser Acne Treatment
    • NeoSkin Skin Rejuvenation Treatment
    • Non Surgical Face Lift “Liquid Lift”
    • PRP Treatment
    • PRX Skin Revitalization
    • Radiesse
    • Restylane
    • RF Microneedling
    • Sculptra
    • Sofwave Skin Tightening
    • Stretch Marks Treatment
    • Scalp Revive
  • Wellness
    • Sexual Wellness
    • O-Shot
  • Home
  • Shop
  • About Us
    • Meet Dr. Ip
    • Meet Our Staff
    • Why Vibrant Dermatology
    • Dr. Ip In the News
    • Featured Videos
    • Blog
    • Get Dr. Ip’s E-Book
    • Gap Year Program
    • Contact Us
  • Services
    • Medical Dermatology Services
    • Surgical Dermatology
    • Pediatric Dermatology
    • Cosmetic Dermatology
    • Health and Wellness
      • Sexual Wellness in Dedham, MA
      • Weight Loss in Dedham, MA
  • Before and After Gallery
  • Book Appointment
  • All Products
  • Online Bill Pay

Eczema in Babies and Young Children

Eczema is a chronic itchy skin condition that can range from very mild to severe. Several things cause eczema, but one of the most common causes of eczema is atopic dermatitis. Atopic dermatitis is a hereditary form of eczema. When my daughter was about 5 months old, she started to develop itchy rashes on her cheeks and on the back of her legs. Because I was a dermatologist in training, I knew that she had eczema. Babies who have eczema usually have a family history of hay fever, allergies, or asthma as they are all genetically related. While my husband and I did not have eczema, we did have a family history of asthma and hay fever.  It can be very difficult to prevent atopic dermatitis, but a good skin care routine can help to minimize the severity of this skin condition.  Eczema can affect anybody, but it is particularly heartbreaking to see babies and young children suffering.  At age five, my little on still has mild to moderate eczema. The good news is that many kids will grow out of their eczema… and I am hopeful that she will too. In the meantime, we are practicing excellent skin care, which allows her to have a great, active childhood.

As your child grows, you will find that the location and appearance of eczema might change.  In young babies, eczema will be most prominent on the cheeks, forehead, and scalp.  By 6 to 12 months of age, it will be worse on crawling surfaces (elbows and knees).  Around age two, it will involve the creases of the elbows and knees, wrists, ankles, and hands.  It is important that you try to protect any inflamed areas from scratching – I suggest socks on your child’s hands (especially when sleeping) to help with this.  

Treatment Plan

For babies and children with mild eczema, I always recommend starting with a gentle, non-medicated approach.  You need to treat both the skin dryness and the inflammation.  In kids with eczema, dry skin is itchy skin. I always liken eczema to a forest fire. Dry leaves and brush catch on fire, moist leaves do not. Kids with eczema have a very difficult time retaining moisture on their skin, and so we have to help them with that.

If you have a child that suffers from eczema, the following routine should help improve the condition of their skin:

  • I recommend bathing every other day, rather than daily. As I mentioned, kids with eczema can’t retain skin moisture. When we bath, we open our pores and moisture escapes from our skin, as a result, more frequent bathing will make atopic skin WORSE. My daughter has always loved her bath time, so we let her bath every other day for as long as she likes. On the days off, we use a soapy washcloth to wash the stinky areas. If you feel strongly about a daily bath then make sure to keep it short, lasting about 10 minutes.  Limit the use of soap, bubble bath, Epson salts and other bath products with fragrances. Johnson and Johnson is not my favorite for kids with this sensitive skin.  Avoid anything that will be rough on the affected skin (loofahs, rough washcloths, etc.) and use a cleanser that is gentle and doesn’t contain any dyes or perfume (like CeraVe Hydrating Baby Cleanser or Aveeno fragrance free baby wash).  
  • Immediately after bathing, gently dry skin with a soft towel and then apply a thick layer of moisturizer to the affected areas. Babies with eczema have decreases levels of ceramides on their skin. Ceramides are proteins that keep water inside of our skin. There are now wonderful products on the market that contain ceramides in a hypoallergenic cream or ointment. I love CeraVe Cream and Aveeno healing skin ointment. Atopics needs creams and ointments, as lotions are mostly water and can evaporate quickly. You should be moisturizing twice daily, if your child will allow you. My daughter will only let me moisturize her skin once a day! However, when I do, I double up –I apply a cream like ceraVe and seal it in with Vaseline.
  • If you find that saliva from drooling is causing additional irritation, applying an ointment like Aquaphor or Vaseline will help to prevent direct contact with saliva and decrease irritation.  

Treating with medication

If the treatment plan above does not show improvement, your child may require medication.  As a clean/naturally inclined dermatologist, I recognize that this may be very challenging to accept for some of us. However, I cannot stress the importance of treating when indicated. Untreated severe eczema can result in severe skin infections that can put young babies in the hospital, even the intensive care unit. When treatment is indicated, I always recommend seeing a dermatologist. We are specifically trained to choose the safest medications for young babies. Sometimes babies may need oral antibiotics if they already have skin infections as a result of eczema. In cases of moderate to severe eczema, steroid creams might be required. When used appropriately, steroid ointments are safe.  Always use the mildest form of the product that controls the eczema and only apply to affected skin.  

Diet

Some parents believe that there is a link between a particular food and their child’s eczema but most infant eczema is unrelated to diet.  If your child gets hives (red, itchy swollen skin bumps) within one hour of eating a specific food, this is a sign of a food allergy and this food should be avoided until you speak with your child’s doctor.  In most cases, skin will improve by using the treatment techniques described above but you should always consult with your pediatrician and/or a board certified dermatologist if improvements are not noted.

If your children have suffered from eczema I would love to hear how you have treated it!  Share your story below or email me at info@vibrantdermatology.com.  

If you want to read more on this topic, check out my latest post: Eczema and Food Allergies. 

Follow along on Facebook for more skin tips, updates and giveaways!  

Dermatologist Boston

Hyde Park Dermatology

Black Dermatologist

Canton Dermatologists

African American Dermatologist



Clean Skincare Versus Natural Skincare

How many people do you know who swear by an ‘all-natural’ beauty routine?  There has been a huge shift in our society to the all-natural lifestyle, and for good reason.  Cancer rates are on the rise and research has proven that there are toxic chemicals everywhere.  The less exposure to toxic chemicals, the better.

One common belief is that stripping down to an all-natural lifestyle will help you achieve perfect skin.  The thought behind this is that by reducing exposure to toxic substances, there will be no inflammatory response. In my job I see firsthand that an all-natural routine isn’t necessarily going to benefit every patient.  While I do believe that reducing exposure to inflammatory substances will help to clear your skin, there are some skin conditions that simply require treatment. Non Surgical Eye Lift

For example, acne.  There are people out there that swear by a natural acne cure – meaning cleaning up your diet and avoiding store brought products.  They use naturally occurring elements to cleanse and moisturize (things like honey and coconut oil) and attribute their clear skin to this. Most likely, if you suffer from acne, this natural routine alone isn’t going to clear your skin.  You will need to actually treat the acne.

Things to avoid

When researching chemicals in skincare products, you will find that there are hundreds of chemicals that may be introduced in products (especially in the United States, the UK has stronger regulations in place).  Some people will always try to make the case that the chemicals you are exposed to in these products is minimal so it shouldn’t matter.  Personally, I’m not taking that chance.

It’s tricky to narrow down the complete list of things you should avoid.  Your best bet is to review the list of ingredients on a selected product and do your research.  I find Safecosmetics.org a great resource for this. 

The list below is a starting point of things that I would always recommend you avoid.

  • Lead – occur in products as a contaminant, may be found in toothpaste, some lipsticks and mens hair dye
  • Mercury  – a preservative used in eye makeup
  • Parabens – a preservative found in skin and body care products
  • Fragrance – a catch-all name used to indicate a number of chemicals in personal care products
  • Triclosan – anti-bacterials that may be found in hand soap, deodorant, toothpaste and bodywash
  • Butylated Hydroxyanisole (BHA) – antioxidant that may be found in cosmetic and personal care products
  • Formaldehyde-releasing preservatives (DMDM, urea, methenamine, sodium hydromethlyglycinate) – used as a disinfectant and may be found in nail polish, soap, deodorant, shaving cream, eyelash adhesive and shampoo.

Trusting the Brand

The labels ‘Organic’ or ‘Natural’ don’t actually carry any legal requirements so you need to drill down into the ingredient lists in order to verify that the product is in fact clean of harsh chemicals.  If you are looking to clean up your personal care products, start by researching brands that share the same philosophy that you do.  If you choose natural products, just be sure to be careful of contact allergens. Regular exposure to pure essential oils can sometimes result in contact dermatitis, which can be a severe itchy rash.

Personally, I choose brands that create products using clean technology.  Utilizing peptides and antioxidants over chemicals to achieve the results I desire.  If you are looking for a clean skin care brand that offers everything from body lotions, shampoo, and shaving cream try Vanicream. It’s a one of my go to lines for patients with sensitive skin or for patients who are looking for products that are “free and clear.”

Challenge

I challenge you to go into your bathroom now.  Pickup your shampoo (or facewash, handwash, anything!) and look at the ingredient list.  Anything not sound right?  I’d love to hear about it either in the comments below or email me at info@vibrantdermatology.com.

Dermatologist Boston

Hyde Park Dermatology

Black Dermatologist

Canton Dermatologists

African American Dermatologist



Can You Find Beauty In The Kitchen?

DIY (Do It Yourself) is a huge buzzword these days.  I recently purchased the book ‘Homemade Beauty’ by Annie Strole because I’m curious about what actually works on skin and what doesn’t.  To be honest, I haven’t tried and of her suggested recipes yet.  As a dermatologist I take pride in having perfect skin and am worried about a possible irritation or reaction.  When it comes to your skin, it is important to understand that some DIYs could be ineffective (waste of money and effort) or damaging (allergic reactions, tissue damage, etc).  Before you mix up something for your skin at home, here are five things to watch out for with DIY home treatments.  

Coconut Oil – People rave about how soft this makes their skin.  An  all-natural oil that can be really effective and a great moisturizer. However, this oil can also be very allergenic.  If you use coconut oil as part of your skin care routine, watch out for any suspicious rashes or irritation and stop use immediately. Non Surgical Eye Lift

Lemon – This highly acidic juice can irritate the skin and impact the acid balance.  The natural pH of skin is 4.5-5 while lemon juice has a pH of 2.  Keeping pH in balance is important to the overall health of your skin.  Lemon juice is highly acidic and can cause irritation.  Also, the oils in citrus fruits are phototoxic (meaning that exposure to sun can result in a dark hyperpigmented rash that can take weeks to resolve).  While some people claim that lemon will help to fade scars and lighten dark spots, the risk of irritation and damage to skin is high. So lemon for your skin is a no-no but if you want to ingest it go right ahead!  In fact, I swear by squeezing fresh lemon into my water every day. It’s a great detox, and it’s full of natural antioxidants that are great for the skin.

Baking Soda – The texture of baking soda mimics that of our favorite exfoliators and some say that it will help to slough of dry skin.  However the pH of baking soda is too alkaline for the face.  With a pH of 9, baking soda can damage the skin’s natural barrier (which keeps bad bacteria out). This can result in skin infections and can also result in moisture loss.  

Sugar – I’ve already posted about how too much sugar can cause breakouts on your skin but using it externally can be just as bad.  The skin on your face is really thin and is no match for the texture of sugar.  You will actually find that many of the scrubs and exfoliators on the market are too rough and are likely creating tiny tears which damage and prematurely age the skin.  Keep the sugar exfoliation on your legs and feet. When I want to exfoliate my face, I choose gentle exfoliators. I’ve already raved about Hydropeptide’s plump and polish peel. It uses gentle microdermabrasion crystals for exfoliating. If you’re looking for a more budget friendly option, a once weekly gentle apricot scrub will do.

Rubbing Alcohol – This antibacterial disinfectant is great for sterilizing wounds and cleaning your house.  For your facial skin, I’m not a fan.  Alcohol is one of the most drying, damaging ingredients that you can put on your face.  Many toners and facial astringents contain ispropyl alcohol which will strip the skin.  Stripping the skin of its natural oils will paradoxically cause you to produce excess oils that can clog pores.  Be on the lookout for this ingredient and avoid these products.  

I do have a DIY DO to share that I have had some success with.  When my son was born I started having problems with my hair and began using a blend of oils that somebody suggested.  I mix equal parts of peppermint oil, jojoba oil, Jamaican black castor oil, rosemary oil, and tea tree oil. Some studies have found rosemary oil to be as effective as 2% minoxidil.

Do you have a DIY that you swear by?  Have you had a DIY disaster?  Please share with me at info@vibrantdermatology.com.

If you are interested in Beauty Tips, Giveaways, and more, be sure to join my Beauty Club.

Dermatologist Boston

Hyde Park Dermatology

Black Dermatologist

Canton Dermatologists

African American Dermatologist



Thicker, Fuller Lashes

My eyelashes have never been full, long or strong.  In fact, they are kind of wimpy. As a dermatologist, I often prescribe a medication called Latisse to patients who desire longer, fuller, eyelashes.  Latisse contains a prostaglandin analog called bimatoprost. While it is very effective, I have had two personal concerns with the product that cause me not to use it personally. One, I’ve found that some peoples eyelashes grow out in a way that looks a little artificial… kind of like spider legs. This is rare, but I wasn’t interested in that look myself! More importantly, being that I am more inclined to use green/clean products, I was just a little wary of putting a prostaglandin analog near my eyes. I believe that it’s safe, otherwise I wouldn’t prescribe it at all. But when it comes to my personal preference, I err on the side of extreme caution. My entire job, after all, depends on be having keen eyesight (can’t be a blind dermatologist, unfortunately).

I’ve tried a variety of natural formulas to strengthen my weak eyelashes but often didn’t see the results I’d expected.  I started using LASH from Hydropeptide about 6 months ago and have been blown away by the results.  This was the first Hydropeptide product that I tried and I was amazed by how well it worked.

Application of this product is easy.  Simply apply a thin coat of the product at the base of your eyelashes every evening (it goes on a bit like liquid mascara).  I did notice some tingling the first couple of nights that I applied the product but it wasn’t painful and subsided within a week.  For best results, you will want to apply this product every evening.  I started noticing new growth about two weeks into use and by the end of the first month my lashes were definitely stronger. 

As with all HydroPeptide products, I love that this is made with clean technology and free of most nasty chemicals.  The LASH formula has 3 peptides (including eyelash fortifying peptides and hair-fullness peptide for superior lash results), biotin, folic acid, hydrogenated lecithin, lemon peel extract (to help prevent breakage and strengthen hair), and soybean oil  (to hydrate and nourish the brow and lash area).  In full disclosure, I will say that it does contain a preservative. I have talked in detail with the company about this, as I do strive to be mostly preservative free. In this instance, it’s all about safety. You pretty much have to use a preservative with products used around the eye.  Think of the catastrophic consequences of an eye infection.

You can also use this product to fill out thinning eyebrows.  If you are already using  Latisse and happy with the results, by all means continue. It is the prescription gold standard. But if you are looking for something cleaner and extremely effective, this product is a MUST have.

Order LASH direct from Hydropeptide 

Looking for more product recommendations, skin tips and giveaways?  Join my Beauty Club and Referral Program and be sure to connect with me on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest.

Dermatologist Boston

Hyde Park Dermatology

Black Dermatologist

Canton Dermatologists

African American Dermatologist



What’s The BEEF With MEAT?

I had lunch with a good friend recently and as she ordered her club sandwich, she requested that the bacon be left off of it.  As I glanced her way she sort of sighed and said ‘did you see the W.H.O. report, now bacon can cause cancer!’  

Of course, she was referring to the clarification report that the World Health Organization recently issued stating that there is an increased risk for colorectal cancer from eating processed meat.

Before we all jump to conclusions about this, it is important to understand the data behind the statements.  The W.H.O. has classified meat alongside numerous other products as a ’probably and possible carcinogen’.  It lists bacon alongside cigarettes, alcohol and asbestos.  We know that smoking raises a person’s risk of developing lung cancer by 2,500 percent (so quit smoking NOW!).  Based on the association identified by the W.H.O., two daily strips of bacon would translate to about a 6 percent risk for colon cancer (up from the 5 percent risk for those who aren’t enjoying bacon).  Sadly, the messages that came forward after the W.H.O. announcement made it sound as if bacon is just as bad as cigarettes.  

Another factor that isn’t considered in this report is the overall lifestyle of individuals.  Could it be that the bacon eaters are more likely to be smokers or sedentary – factors that increase your risk of cancer and that the non-meat eaters exercise regularly and eat their vegetables (which helps to protect them)?  How about the genetics of the individual?  We know that genetics can play a role in cancer.  

Although red and processed meats can increase your risk of colon cancer, there is no need to cut these products from your diet entirely.  

Red meat has been identified as all types of mammalian muscle meat (beef, veal, pork, lamb, mutton, horse, and goat).  Processed meat refers to meat that has been transformed through salting, curing, fermentation, smoking or other processes to enhance flavor or improve preservation (hot dogs, sausages and ham are a few examples). Some processed meats contain nitrites, which are potential carcinogens, If you are a big consumer of red and processed meet, an easy step to take is to reduce your intake.  Also, experts recommend an annual screening between the ages of 50 and 75 (or earlier if there is a family history of colorectal cancer).  Your doctor can provide you with guidance on diet and recommended screenings during your annual physical.  

Here are my rules when it comes to meat, based on my understanding of the science

  1. I stick to grass fed/vegetarian fed, organic meat. It is obviously more expensive, but I’d rather cut down on other non-essential things in order to afford good meat.
  2. I avoid all processed meats that contain nitrites. I look for labels that specifically say NITRATE free.
  3. I try to limit red meat overall all. We mostly eat chicken.  I use ground turkey instead of ground beef. If I have bacon, it’s turkey bacon
  4. When it comes to eggs and milk, I stick with the same principles – organic, vegetarian fed.
  5. I try to eat fish twice a week and only go for wild caught fish. Given the recent oil spills in our waters, I try to find Icelandic fish if I can.

To be honest, this W.H.O. clarification didn’t really alter the way that I eat.  We were already avoiding processed meats – earlier research has supported that these forms of meat aren’t very good for you.  We limit our consumption of red meat and when we do enjoy meat it is organic and we stick to the leaner cuts of meat.  I suggested to my friend that she go ahead and enjoy the bacon on her sandwich.  I know that she lives a relatively healthy lifestyle – a few slices of bacon every so often is not going to have a drastic effect on her overall health.  

What about you?  Would you eat the bacon?  Connect with me on Facebook and share your thoughts!



Dermatologist Boston

Hyde Park Dermatology

Black Dermatologist

Canton Dermatologists

African American Dermatologist



Cancer: Our Genes Are Not Our Destiny

Cancer is a really scary thing.  It seems like almost every day I either see a patient being diagnosed or hear of another friend being diagnosed with some form of cancer.  Ongoing research has offered so many advancements in how we diagnose and treat cancer but still, too many people are turning up with too many forms of cancer.  I recently read an article in Harvard Magazine highlighting the hereditary link in certain types of cancers. 

The dermatologist in me reads this article and recalls all of the skin cancers that I have seen in patients.  Skin cancer is highly heritable but with early detection it is usually 100% curable.  If you or a first degree relative have had a history of skin cancer, it is important that all other first degree relatives have regular skin checks by a Board Certified Dermatologist.  Educate your family members on the ABCDE’s of skin cancer and on the importance of using sunscreen on a daily basis.  Protect your children from UV rays with sunscreen and protective clothing. If you do notice something suspicious on your skin, visit a Board Certified Dermatologist as soon as possible.  Early detection is critical! 

Back to the article, the optimist in me reads this and considers the fact that 1/3 of cancers are very heritable, which means that 2/3 are not.  Think about that for a minute.  By reducing exposure to toxic substances and fueling your body with good, clean food, you can actually decrease your likelihood of getting cancer (the non-genetic cancers that is).  Our genes are not our destiny and good, clean food can be our best medicine.  Even in the instance of highly heritable cancers, environmental modifications can help! Take this example – You have two identical twins with a strong family history of melanoma.  One twin is a sun worshiper, smoker, and does not take very good care of himself. The second twin wears sunscreen, avoids the sun, eats well, and exercises plenty. Which twin is more likely to end of up with skin cancer? In my book, it’s genes + environment that usually determines what diseases we get. Science backs up this view point.

In my home, we have taken steps to proactively limit our exposure to everyday carcinogens.  We avoid processed junk food and artificial sweeteners and fuel our bodies with organic foods that are packed with antioxidants which helps to repair damaged cells.  We exercise on a regular basis (obesity has been linked to increase risks of certain types of cancers) and encourage an active lifestyle for our children.  We don’t smoke and consume alcohol only in moderation.  We limit the use of BPA, avoid personal care products that contain certain chemicals like phthalates, sulfates etc and use natural cleaning products.  I could fill pages and pages about how  we are striving to live ‘clean’.  I say strive, because I am practical. I am a working woman, and a mom, and busy just like everyone else. Are we always perfect, no. But, we try our best.

With all of this information, I would like to introduce a new segment that I am planning for my Blog – CLEANhealth.   Look for CLEANhealth blog posts and CLEANtips on my social media channels to highlight how I have created a CLEAN environment for my family.  I know that this CLEAN lifestyle will help to protect us from many forms of cancer and that is something that gives me comfort.

If you have taken an initiative to create a clean environment for your family, I would love to feature you on my blog.  Email me at info@vibrantdermatology.com. 



Dermatologist Boston

Hyde Park Dermatology

Black Dermatologist

Canton Dermatologists

African American Dermatologist



Say Farewell To Sweaty Pits

There is nothing more embarrassing than realizing that you have stains on your shirt from sweaty arm pits.  Or shaking somebody’s hand with a sweaty palm.  How about standing in front of a room of people with sweat dripping down your forehead (despite the room temperature being cool)?  Sweating is an essential body function for temperature-control but when it becomes excessive it can interfere with the quality of life.

Excessive sweating, known as hyperhidrosis, is frustrating for those that suffer from it.  I am one of them. A trial of antiperspirants and at home remedies will sometimes result in a solution.  However, often times the solution is only temporary.  Prescription antiperspirants while effective for some can cause serious irritation.  

Research has been proven that treating excessive sweating of the armpits (as well as hands, feet, head and under the breasts) with Botox is safe and effective.  As a dermatologist, I have administered Botox to patients with excessive sweating on many occasions with incredible results.  The Botox causes a temporary cessation of sweat glands in the area that is treated.

The treatment can be done in the office in as little as 20 minutes and results will be noticeable in about 2 to 4 days after treatment (with the full effects noticed within 2 weeks).  One treatment can last up to almost nine months.  It does require several tiny injections in order to get the medication where it needs to go. This discomfort is usually manageable. We have some in-office tricks for keeping patients comfortable.  The best thing about this procedure is that it is now being covered by several insurance plans. This is amazing since out of pocket costs for Botox or other lasers that treat sweating can be upwards of $1500 a treatment.

Contact a board certified dermatologist to find out if you are a good candidate for Botox to treat hyperhidrosis.



Dermatologist Boston

Hyde Park Dermatology

Black Dermatologist

Canton Dermatologists

African American Dermatologist



Acids – the benefits for your skin

A common ingredient in many skin care products is acid.  A common misconception is that something that is ‘acid’ is going to peel or exfoliate your skin.  This isn’t always the case, used correctly, acids can also help with dry skin, fine lines, wrinkles, and acne.  If you are feeling overwhelmed after staring at ingredient labels and need some direction (and product recommendations), read on.  

In my opinion, there are 10 acids that you need to know about.  

  1. Retinoc Acid (Retinol) – Derived from Vitamin A, Retinoic acid is well known as an antiaging powerhouse. This acid causes skin cell turnover and provides benefits of increased collagen production, clean pores, accelerated skin cell shedding and evened out skin tone.  Your skin may take a short time to adjust to this acid (skin flaking is completely normal).  Because of this acid’s anti-aging benefits, almost every female dermatologist is on a prescription retinoid. My favorite prescription retinoid is Differin, very effective, with few side effects.
  2. Salicylic Acid – If you have acne, this acid is sure to be in your bathroom.  When used to treat acne, the acid will dry up blemishes.  As an antibacterial, the acid will work as an exfoliator to remove discolored and damaged skin cells to improve skin tone.  At high concentrations, sal acid can be used as a chemical peel that can help clear major breakouts in no time. Salicylic acid peels should be performed by your dermatologist. I have acne, so I make sure to do a sal acid peel every 3 months.
  3. Glycolic Acid – This is one of the best acids out there, going beyond the top layer of skin to help loosen up the bonds that hold dead skin together.  Glycolic acid will shrink pores, lighten spots, even out scars, lessen wrinkles and keep the texture of your skin smooth and bright.  Gentle enough for beginners with proven anti-aging properties, this would be a great start if you want to incorporate acids into your routine.    If you are new to acids, I would recommend starting at a 5% glycolic acid product. Neostrata has a great glycolic acid wash.
  4. Lactic Acid – Gentle and effective, those with sensitive skin will benefit from a product that includes Lactic acid.  It exfoliates and softens lines and wrinkles in a much less irritating way than other acids.  Find it in HydroPeptide Even Out (enter code DOCTOR-IP for preferred pricing).  
  5. Mandelic Acid – Another one that works well on sensitive skin, Mandelic acid is great for brightening skin, addressing dark spots, as well as diminishing the signs of aging.  
  6. Hyaluronic Acid – This acid is a moisture booster and can add volume when injected.  A key in many moisturizers and fillers, hyaluronic acid is synthetically made to replicate a natural structural component of skin.  When used as a cream or serum, skin will feel softer and you will notice improvement in the appearance of fine lines.  Look for a product that combines this with vitamin C to assist in effective penetration.  
  7. Azelaic Acid – If you suffer from redness (especially related to rosacea) and acne, Azelaic acid could benefit you.  This acid is derived from grains and soothes irritated skin.  Azeliac acid is also a power fighter of hyperpigmentation. The great news about this product is that it can be used in pregnancy!! This is my go to product for fighting my acne and melasma (the brown mask of pregnancy that many women get) when I am expecting. Works like a charm and perfectly safe.
  8. Ascorbic Acid – This is the synthetic version of Vitamin C and is known to have antioxidant benefits as well as the ability to brighten skin and increase collagen.  You’ll find vitamin C in lots of serums. Just be careful. Some vitamin C serums can lose potency quickly. I keep mine in the fridge to preserve it for as long as possible.
  9. Alpha Lipoic Acid – A powerful antioxidant that will help to minimize the look of lines and wrinkles, Alpha Lipoic acid will protect against free radicals and help to prevent damage.  This a newer, more-potent antioxidant that will diminish fine lines and give your skin a healthy glow.  
  10. Malic Acid – Another one that is great for sensitive skin, Malic Acid encourages cell turnover when used as an exfoliator.  

Many over the counter products will combine these acids to produce a powerful combination for your skin care needs. You an also find many of these acids combined for effective skin brightening and pore tightening in the Hydropeptide plump and peel kit. This is why this is my go to home peeling kit that I use once a week to make sure that my skin always has a healthy glow.  It is important to find the right balance for your skin type (especially those with sensitive skin).  Any new skin care routine will take time to see results – over time you should notice that your skin is brighter and more evened out.  If your skin becomes red, irritated, itchy and dry you may have overused the acid and should stop the use of the product for a few days (and be sure to keep up with the moisturizer to help soothe any irritation).  

Looking for more skin tips & product recommendations?  Join my Beauty Club & Referral Program! 



Dermatologist Boston

Hyde Park Dermatology

Black Dermatologist

Canton Dermatologists

African American Dermatologist



Acne : Is Your Diet Making It Worse?

I’ve written before about the link between food and your skin.  Today I am going to focus on acne and why specific types of foods can trigger outbreaks.  Research has shown a trend that certain foods can actually effect your acne.  So before you go out and purchase expensive ‘spot treatments’ and acne fighters, I would encourage you to review your diet to see if any changes might benefit your skin. 

There are three main categories of food that I think about when I consider how a diet can impact acne:  cow’s milk, sugar and high-glycemic foods.

1:  Cow’s Milk – A 2010 study has found an association between cow’s milk and acne, although there are only theories on why this is.  Cow’s milk spikes blood sugar (increasing inflammation which leads to pimples) and increases insulin levels (encouraging the production of skin oils).  Additionally, the added hormones found in cow’s milk can encourage the overgrowth of skin cell’s, which can block pores.  Blocked pores = breakouts.

Suggested diet change: Purchase organic dairy products to avoid added hormones. If you notice a link between your acne and dairy, think about other non-dairy sources of calcium (I like almond milk).  If you choose to drink milk, also be aware that skim milk is actually worse for your acne!! The process used to produce skim milk actually leave more acne causing hormones behind.

2.  Sugar – Similar to milk, a spike in your blood sugar levels is going to lead to increased inflammation, causing pimples.  You need to consider exactly how much sugar you’re eating in a day – and especially concentrate on any time that you are eating a large amount at once.

Suggested diet change: Cut back!  We don’t require sugar in our diets and the more we eat, the more our body craves it.  Try dropping one soda or sugary snack to begin with and keep cutting until it’s all gone.  Try using natural sweeteners (honey, maple syrup) if you really need to sweeten something. 

3.  High-glycemic foods – Foods that break down quickly in the body (think things like white bread, processed cereals, white rice, cakes, pretzels, etc) will trigger an insulin spike and raise blood sugar levels.  These changes will trigger hormonal fluctuations and inflammation which in turn encourage acne.  If you choose low glycemic foods (vegetables, whole grains, etc) instead you are sure to notice a change in your skin.

Suggested diet change:  Same as the sugar, cut back!  Avoid junk food (and fast food) opting instead for clean snacks and meals.  Choose salads with lean protein over a cheeseburger and fries and think about nutritious snacks that will provide you with long-lasting energy (almonds are my go to!). 

Personally, I think altering eating habits should always be the first step towards enjoying clearer skin.  A clean, consistent diet will help to ensure beautiful skin (and definitely won’t hurt your waistline either!).  It will take time to see results from any changes in your diet, but if you don’t see improvements after four to six weeks you should contact a Board Certified Dermatologist for a more detailed analysis of your skin.

Have you personally cleared up your skin with dietary changes?  I would love to hear about it!  Comment below or email me your story at info@vibrantdermatology.com.



Dermatologist Boston

Hyde Park Dermatology

Black Dermatologist

Canton Dermatologists

African American Dermatologist



Botox® – What To Expect During Your First Visit

Face lift anti-aging treatment – Asian woman portrait with graphic lines showing facial lifting effect on skin.

Botox® has gained huge press in the past years and for good reason.  Over 11 million people have experienced the benefit of Botox®, a treatment that smooths and rejuvenates your skin and reduces wrinkles that are caused by repeated facial expressions.

Often, women in their 30s and 40s come into the office and ask me if there are creams that can be used to correct the 11’s that have developed between their eyebrows, or the crow’s feet at the corners of the eyes. While certain creams such as prescription retinoids help prevent fine lines and wrinkles, they do not prevent or treat the wrinkles that develop from the dynamic movements of our face. If you are a smiley person like me, you may inevitably developed etched in lines from facial expressions. Neurotoxin or Botox, as it is most commonly called, is the perfect fix for this. Botox allows me to smile as much as I’d like while maintaining a youthful appearance. I started getting Botox a couple years ago, and have never looked back. Most of my patients feel that same way – once you try it, you never go back!!

Of course, there may be a ton of questions that come to mind about whether or not to get neurotoxin. The biggest concern that I hear about is whether or not your face will look “frozen” after the procedure.  In the right hands, the answer is absolutely not! My goal is to make you look refreshed and wrinkle free, while still maintaining natural movement and expression in your face.  It is important that you get your care from a board certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon. Remember the goal is to be a renewed you, not a new you.  To find out more about what to expect, read on here….

Initial Consultation

Dr. Joyce Imahiyerobo-Ip will evaluate your health, discuss your medical history and assess your face.  Your overall goals will be discussed and a recommendation will be based on this information.  It is important that you notify the dermatologist of any medications you are taking as well as of any allergies, skin issues or illnesses.  Botox® is suitable for people of all ages but is not for those who are pregnant or breastfeeding.  Botox® informational materials will be provided during this visit and the techniques will be described in detail.  If you have any questions this is an excellent time to ask them.

The Procedure

Botox® procedures generally only take about 20 minutes and are non-surgical so there is no anesthesia required.  The needles used to inject the neurotoxin are very small and thin, and as such, pain is minimal. You will be asked to move certain facial muscles to determine the best points to inject Botox®.  Injections will be made directly into the muscles at several points in the area being treated.  If you are sensitive to pain we can use a topical anesthetic cream to numb the area.

Post Procedure

Patients routinely continue with most normal daily activities after the procedure.  However, I do not recommend that you get a massage right after the procedure, as pressure on the face can displace the product from the original injection site. I also recommend avoiding facials and Clarisonic brushes immediately post procedure. It is ok to resume these activities 24 hours post procedure. Occasionally, there may be some slight discomfort, redness or bruising at the injection site but this should not last more than an hour after treatment.  Results will not be immediate but you can expect to see smoother skin within a few days, and results will last up to 4 months.  Repeat treatments will be required to maintain your youthful appearance and to prevent wrinkles from returning.  Dr. Ip will discuss repeat treatments during your visit.

Cost

The cost of treatment will vary depending on your individual goals and needs.  Costs will be discussed during your initial consultation.  However, the usual range is $300-800 depending on the number of units used. For the average woman, looking to treat her entire forehead I would budget roughly $500.

Visit www.vibrantdermatolgoy.com to schedule an appointment with Dr. Imahiyerobo-Ip.  Be sure to join the Beauty Club and Referral Program for a chance to win free Botox®!

For more information about Botox® : http://www.botoxcosmetic.com



Dermatologist Boston

Hyde Park Dermatology

Black Dermatologist

Canton Dermatologists

African American Dermatologist



  • « Previous Page
  • 1
  • …
  • 15
  • 16
  • 17
  • 18
  • 19
  • Next Page »

Problems We Treat

In the Clear

Acne: Adults & Teens

lllumination

Hyperpigmentation, Sun Spots, Melasma

Red, Red Go Away

Rosacea, Facial Redness, Sensitive Skin

Tall Drink of Water

Excessively Dry Skin, Eczema

Fountain of Youth

Anti-Aging, Skin Rejuvenation

Mommy & Me Skin Care

For Pregnant & Nursing Mothers

Just for Kids

Skin Care For Those 12 & Under
Contact
Vibrant Dermatology
588 Providence Hwy
Dedham MA 02026
Phone: (617) 250-0257

Vibrant Dermatology
1 Central Ave.
Milton MA 02186
(entrance at 131 Eliot St.)
Phone: (617) 250-0257

© 2026 Vibrant Dermatology | Site Map | TOS/Privacy Policy | Vibrant Dermatology
book online