West Dermatology San Luis Obispo

Most nail disorders are characterized as fungal infections, also called onychomycosis or tinea unguium, and both toenails and fingernails are vulnerable. Symptoms can vary, but typically include nail pain or soreness, thickened nails, a distorted appearance, nail darkening, yellowish streaks, separation of nail from nail bed, brittleness, or even foul smells. There are multiple treatments for nail disorders, including oral anti-fungal medications and topical anti-fungal medications are also available. An effective solution offered by our dermatologists is laser nail treatment, which treats the infection or disorder completely and almost painlessly. In other, more extreme cases, complete removal of the nail may be necessary. We realize that nail disorders can be unpleasant and sometimes even painful. We’ll be by your side throughout your journey, from diagnosis to treatment to aftercare, to ensure that you’re receiving the best dermatology care possible. West Dermatology San Luis Obisp...

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a minimally-invasive skin cancer removal treatment for individuals with precancerous skin lesions (such as actinic keratoses) or non-melanoma skin cancers (like basal cell carcinoma). PDT eliminates cancer cells through the utilization of both drug and light therapy. First, a topical solution is applied for absorption by the cancerous cells. Later, the affected area is targeted with a very specific wavelength of light that uses an active form of oxygen to destroy the cancerous cells. With photodynamic therapy, our specialists can eradicate specific types of skin cancers and precancerous spots, allowing you to live life to the fullest. This treatment is safe and effective at treating various types of cancer or precancerous cells, and since PDT is less invasive than other skin cancer treatments, you will be able to return to your normal life soon after the treatment is completed. West Dermatology San Luis Obispo 805 Aerovista Pl STE 202, San Luis Obispo, CA...

Mohs micrographic surgery is an extremely effective treatment for a variety of skin cancers. Due to its accuracy, high success rate and cosmetically appropriate outcomes, Mohs remains the gold standard for skin cancer removal. The surgical specialists at our center are highly trained to perform this precise surgery with skill and technique refined through years of experience and study. Our specialists can remove all vestiges of the tumor so you can have your life back and live it to the fullest. With Mohs, elimination of a tumor is precise and success is immediate and long-lasting. Under the expert guidance of our surgeons, Mohs surgery can provide complete tumor removal, including cancerous cells that are unseen (and therefore left behind) during other skin cancer removal procedures. Once skin cancer has been eliminated from your tissues, treatment is complete and you'll be 100% cancer-free, with no estimation or uncertainty. West Dermatology San Luis Obispo 805 Aerovista Pl STE ...

Melasma is the development of gray or brown patches on the skin, usually on areas that are regularly exposed to the sun. Although this includes your arms and neck, it is more common on the face, especially the cheeks, chin, forehead, bridge of the nose, and under the eyes. Melasma usually develops symmetrically, meaning that the blotches of discoloration are even on either side of the face. As the condition commonly develops during pregnancy, it’s often referred to as the “mask of pregnancy”.  When it comes to melasma treatment, there are a variety of effective methods utilized by our expert dermatologists. Some of these treatments include topical creams or ointments, dermabrasion, microdermabrasion, chemical peels, and oral tranexamic acid. We know that patches of skin discoloration, especially a condition called melasma, can be troublesome to both your appearance and self-esteem. As your knowledgeable community skin specialists, we’re here to help you manage this condition. West...

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the US. However, it does not have to be fatal, especially when caught early. That’s why you shouldn’t ignore unusual skin bumps, lesions, discolorations, and other irregularities when they appear. Our skin cancer experts have the experience and training to help you overcome this disease. We highly recommend regular skin cancer screenings. If a carcinoma is found, we’ll discuss the best solution with you from among the following treatment options: topical creams, excisional surgery, electrodesiccation and curettage (ED&C), cryotherapy, and Mohs micrographic surgery. We provide an assortment of treatment options that can be customized to suit your needs based on your goals, concerns, and opinions about which treatment is right for you. We’ll be with you throughout the process with compassionate care and support so you can have your life back and live it to the fullest. West Dermatology San Luis Obispo 805 Aerovista Pl STE 202, San Lui...

The most common type of cancer in the country is skin cancer, and melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer. In general, melanoma arises from mutations of skin cell DNA in the outer layer of the skin (epidermis). The spread of these mutations to adjacent cells, particularly when uncontrolled and rapid, raises the risk of a malignancy. Melanoma develops when mutations occur in melanocytes, which are skin cells located in the bottom layer of the epidermis. Melanomas frequently form in areas that don’t get much sun exposure, and often start out as a mole, a large brown spot, or an irregular lesion. I f you’ve been diagnosed with melanoma, the following treatment options are very effective: topical medications, Mohs micrographic surgery, and surgical excision procedure. We understand how a diagnosis of melanoma can impact your life. West Dermatology San Luis Obispo 805 Aerovista Pl STE 202, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 (805) 250-3224 Get Directions to our dermatology office Melanoma T...

“ Lumps, bumps, and moles ” is a general term that typically refers to warts, skin tags, vascular birthmarks, cysts, fat deposits, and more. Normally, these skin growths and irregularities are benign; however, they can have a negative bearing on your self-esteem because they often form on parts of your body that are easily visible, such as the face or neck. Other areas of the body that frequently develop lumps, bumps, and moles include the torso, back, arms, legs, and groin. We can help you manage a variety of lumps, bumps, moles, warts, cysts, vascular birthmarks, and other skin irregularities. Treatment options include pulsed dye laser (PDL), Cutera Excel V laser, steroids, surgical excision, and prescription oral or topical medications. In some cases, such as with moles, only simple observation is necessary. We understand that abnormal lumps or bumps in your skin may seem like just a sign of aging, but they may actually be damaging the health and appearance of your skin. West Dermat...

Microneedling is a dermatology treatment that uses ultrafine needles to promote the body’s natural collagen production, resulting in tighter, smoother skin. The process works by creating minuscule wounds in your skin, which causes the body’s self-healing mechanism to engage. The end result is skin that looks healthier and more attractive. The microneedling device also gently targets radiofrequency energy into your skin, which helps to repair and hydrate tissue. One session lasts 20-30 minutes, is virtually painless, and there's minimal downtime. Microneedling is ideal for even the most delicate areas of the face, including the cheeks, upper and lower eyelids, the sides of your nose, and the upper lip. Because it stimulates both the growth of collagen and the production of hyaluronic acid, this treatment is effective for a variety of issues, including rough and/or lax skin, fine lines and wrinkles, and even scars. The procedure is safe and effective for all skin types and colors. W...

Rosacea is characterized by persistent skin redness, the prominence of blood vessels, blotchiness, and reddish bumps or pimples on the face; it’s as if you have the inclination to blush or flush quickly and without reason. In particular, it commonly develops in the cheeks, chin, nose, forehead, ears, and neck. There is no outright “cure” for rosacea and it is often unpredictable; even if you avoid triggers and follow a treatment plan that eliminates the symptoms, it can return without warning. However, the skin experts at our dermatology practice can help you manage the condition by minimizing symptoms as much possible. For milder cases, topical medications can reduce redness while oral medications can shrink bumps and pimples. For more severe symptoms, laser or IPL (intense pulsed light) therapy is effective for improving blood vessels and/or reducing blushing and flushing. West Dermatology San Luis Obispo 805 Aerovista Pl STE 202, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 (805) 250-3224 Get Directi...

zIf you suspect that you have athlete’s foot , you should see your favorite neighborhood dermatologist for an evaluation. Several treatment options are available to you, such as foot-drying powders, antiperspirants, topical antifungal medications (e.g., ones with miconazole, clotrimazole, or tolnaftate), and oral antifungal medications with terbinafine, fluconazole, or itraconazole. We understand the painful itching that athlete’s foot causes can be unpleasant. As your neighborhood skin experts, we’re here to ease your concerns by providing answers to your questions about how to address this skin condition. Our experienced dermatologic specialists offer solutions customized to suit your needs and goals. We’ll be with you every step of the way as you deal with this issue. Healthy skin is our passion. Contact us today if you have symptoms of athlete’s foot and we’ll develop a treatment plant that suits your unique needs. West Dermatology San Luis Obispo 805 Aerovista Pl STE 202, San Luis...

We provide both the Juvéderm, Restylane, and Merz (Radiesse and Belotero) line of dermal fillers . The Juvéderm line includes Juvéderm XC and Juvéderm XC Plus (to reduce lines around your nose and mouth), Vollure XC (to minimize deep nasolabial lines), Volbella XC (to improve fine lip lines), and Voluma XC (to enhance and volumize cheeks). Meanwhile Restylane is used to soften nasolabial folds and lip lines, while Restylane Defyne helps to soften deep facial lines and Restylane Refyne treats of moderate facial lines and creases. Regardless of the dermal filler used, the treatment is quick, pain-free, and results in no downtime. We realize that the effects of aging can impact your appearance and cause a loss of self-confidence, especially if you look older than you feel. We’re here to provide support and to offer a variety of treatment options to reduce the effects of aging and help rejuvenate your appearance. West Dermatology San Luis Obispo 805 Aerovista Pl STE 202, San Luis Obispo, C...

Though there is currently no cure for eczema , our dermatologists help thousands of eczema patients per year and have the knowledge and experience to provide relief. A treatment plan can involve any of the following options: moisturizing lotions and/or creams, topical anti-itch medications, oral antihistamines, and light therapy. A new oral medication, call dupilumab , can also treat chronic eczema. Our dermatologists understand how skin rashes like eczema and atopic dermatitis can be bothersome, as the itchiness and skin inflammation can make you self-conscious about your condition. What sets us apart is our focus on you as a person. We have the knowledge and experience to establish your type of eczema from a visual examination. We can also determine the triggers for your specific case from a thorough consultation and evaluation. Once we know this, our compassionate neighborhood staff works with you to find the best solution possible. West Dermatology San Luis Obispo 805 Aerovista Pl ...