Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy is emerging as a promising treatment for melasma, a common skin pigmentation disorder. This blog post explores the growing evidence supporting PRP's efficacy, how it compares to traditional treatments, and what patients can expect during the procedure. While more research is needed, early studies show PRP can significantly reduce melasma severity with minimal side effects. For melasma patients in Cape Town who haven't found success with other options, PRP offers an exciting new approach worth considering under the guidance of a qualified dermatologist.

Discover the latest approaches to managing rosacea, from topical treatments to emerging therapies. This comprehensive guide covers diagnosis, classification, and treatment options, with insights from Cape Town dermatologists. Learn how to effectively control symptoms and improve your quality of life.

Adjuvant pembrolizumab therapy has shown significant promise in improving outcomes for patients with high-risk stage III melanoma. A major clinical trial demonstrated improved distant metastasis-free and recurrence-free survival rates compared to placebo. This immunotherapy works by enhancing the body's natural defenses against cancer cells. While side effects can occur, the benefits often outweigh the risks for many patients. This advancement represents a major step forward in melanoma treatment, offering hope to patients in Cape Town and beyond.

Discover the surprising link between breast cancer and melanoma. Learn about the increased risks, prevention strategies, and the importance of comprehensive screenings. Find out how Cape Town dermatologists are addressing this connection and what it means for your health.

Tinea capitis is a common fungal scalp infection in children. Symptoms include scaly patches, hair loss, and itching. It's caused by dermatophytes and spreads through direct contact or shared items. Diagnosis involves clinical examination and laboratory tests. Treatment typically requires oral antifungal medication and topical treatments. Prevention strategies include good hygiene and avoiding sharing personal items. If left untreated, it can lead to permanent hair loss and scarring. Early professional intervention is crucial for effective management and preventing complications. Panorama Dermatology Clinic offers comprehensive care for tinea capitis and other skin conditions.

Rosacea sufferers, take note! A recent meta-analysis reveals exciting insights into two popular treatments: Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) and Pulsed-Dye Laser (PDL). Both show high efficacy, with IPL slightly edging out in achieving substantial improvement. While equally effective in reducing redness, PDL treatments were found to be less painful. These findings offer hope for better rosacea management, though more research is needed. Curious about which treatment might work best for you? Contact our dermatology team to explore your options.

Retinoids are powerful skincare ingredients that can improve acne and aging skin, but often cause irritation. Dermatologists and scientists are developing innovative ways to minimize these side effects. New approaches include nanoparticle encapsulation, lipid-based carriers, and liposomes, which can deliver retinoids more gently to the skin. Combining retinoids with soothing ingredients like glucosamine and plant extracts also shows promise. While many of these technologies are still being perfected, some are already available in skincare products. Look for terms like "encapsulated" or "low-irritation" when shopping for retinoid treatments.

Discover an advanced approach to treating androgenetic alopecia with a combination of PRP and Minoxidil. This innovative treatment, available from a dermatologist in Cape Town, enhances hair density and patient satisfaction, offering a promising solution for those struggling with hair loss. Explore effective hair restoration options today.

Post-traumatic scars can impact both appearance and mental health. An innovative treatment combining subcision, platelet-rich plasma (PRP), and microneedling has shown promising results in reducing these scars. This approach breaks down scar tissue and stimulates collagen production, enhancing skin texture and appearance. A recent study demonstrated that patients treated with PRP had significant improvements compared to those treated with saline, with minimal side effects and high satisfaction rates. This combination therapy offers a safe, effective, and non-invasive option for those seeking to improve their skin's health and appearance under the care of a dermatologist.

Melasma is a common dermatological condition characterized by hyperpigmented patches on facial skin. Effective management involves a multi-step approach tailored to each patient's needs. Initial interventions include reassessing hormonal contraception, diligent application of broad-spectrum sunscreen, and use of over-the-counter depigmenting agents. If these measures prove insufficient after eight weeks, consultation with a dermatologist is recommended. Treatment options may include prescription-strength topical medications such as azelaic acid, retinoids, or hydroquinone. For refractory cases, advanced therapies like tranexamic acid or laser treatments may be considered.

Here's a 75-word summary of the rewritten article on removing post-acne brown spots:

Post-acne brown spots, caused by excess pigmentation from inflammation, are more common than acne scars. These flat, dark marks are especially prevalent in people with darker skin tones. Two main treatment options exist: daily sunblock application to prevent further darkening, and the use of prescription skin-lightening creams containing ingredients like hydroquinone or retinoids. Treatment can take weeks to months for visible results. Prevention is key – avoid pressing or squeezing pimples to minimize inflammation and subsequent brown spots.

Eliminating house dust mites is crucial for managing Atopic eczema, especially in those sensitive to these allergens. Key steps include removing carpets and curtains, opting for hard flooring and washable blinds, and using dust-proof covers for mattresses. Regular cleaning with special filters and washing bedding in hot water are essential. Reducing dust mites in living areas and using air conditioning can help, but moisturizers remain vital in eczema care. Eliminating over 90% of mites is necessary for effective results

Sunlight contributes to skin cancer, primarily through UVB radiation, which damages DNA in skin cells. This damage leads to solar keratosis, the earliest stage of squamous cell carcinoma, confined to the epidermis. With continued sun exposure, DNA damage can become irreparable, potentially progressing to squamous cell carcinoma that invades deeper skin layers. Early treatment of solar keratosis is essential to prevent further development and reduce the risk of more dangerous skin cancers.

Treating acne scars requires a tailored approach based on scar depth. Superficial scars may be treated with creams, lasers, and needling, while mid-depth scars require subcision or fillers. Deep scars often need more intensive methods like the CROSS technique, punch excision, or fillers. Multiple treatments are often necessary for best results.

Skin scarring is categorized into three types: tissue excess (keloids and hypertrophic scars), tissue loss (indentations like acne scars), and surface changes (color or texture changes without contour changes). Each type has unique characteristics and requires different treatments, ranging from injections and lasers to topical creams and surgical options.

Botox smooths facial lines by relaxing specific muscles, treating frown lines, crow's feet, and more. It's safe, with minimal side effects, and effects last 3-6 months. Costs vary based on units used. Best avoided during pregnancy for safety.

Pimecrolimus (Elidel) is a topical immunosuppressant used to treat Atopic Dermatitis, particularly in patients aged 2 years and older. It inhibits Calcineurin, a molecule that activates T-lymphocytes, which play a role in eczema flare-ups. Pimecrolimus is often used when patients struggle to reduce their reliance on corticosteroids. Side effects are generally mild, with some users experiencing a brief burning sensation. However, the long-term risks, including a potential link to skin cancer, remain unclear. Despite these concerns, Pimecrolimus remains a valuable option for managing difficult cases of eczema.

When a dermatologist evaluates a patient with hair loss, the first step is to check for signs of inflammation or scarring on the scalp, such as redness, scaling, or follicle destruction. Hair loss conditions are categorized into scarring and non-scarring alopecia. Scarring alopecia often requires a scalp biopsy to diagnose the cause. Non-scarring alopecia is further assessed based on the pattern of hair loss: Alopecia Areata for isolated patches, Telogen Effluvium for diffuse loss, and Androgenetic Alopecia for pattern baldness. Most hair loss cases fit these patterns, guiding the dermatologist’s approach to treatment.

Dyshidrotic eczema, also known as pompholyx, typically affects the sides of the fingers, toes, palms, and soles, causing intensely itchy, small blisters filled with clear fluid. The condition may be caused by various factors, including allergic contact dermatitis, irritant dermatitis, infections, or stress. Treatment focuses on identifying and removing the cause if possible. When the cause remains unclear, symptom relief is the primary goal, often involving the use of potent topical corticosteroids and moisturizers. In severe cases, other treatments like light therapy, oral prednisolone, or immunosuppressants may be necessary to manage the condition effectively.

Acne is common during pregnancy, with its severity varying greatly among women. Treating acne during pregnancy is challenging, as only certain medications and procedures are safe to use. The FDA classifies drugs into categories based on safety for the fetus, with Category A and B being the safest. Topical treatments like Clindamycin phosphate and Azelaic Acid are generally safe, while oral antibiotics like Amoxicillin or Cephalexin may be used in more severe cases. However, each treatment option's risks and benefits must be carefully considered, as no medication is entirely without risk during pregnancy.