Skyline Dermatology offers a wide range of services, including:
- Acne treatment
- Eczema and psoriasis management
- Skin cancer screenings and treatment
- Cosmetic dermatology procedures (Botox, Dysport, Juvederm)
- Comprehensive care for all skin types and conditions
Each May, Skin Cancer Awareness Month highlights the message that understanding and preventing this common disease is critical.
“Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in humans,” Dr. Zhao said. “It's the one that people are most likely to get throughout their lifetime, and it’s probably one of the most preventable cancers.”
Sun exposure is the number one avoidable influence on skin cancer. To protect against sun damage, Dr. Zhao recommends daily use of sunscreen, suggesting a sunscreen-moisturizer combo.
He favors the Elta MD brand because of its reliable feel and effective sun protection factor rating. Some more economical recommendations are La Roche-Posay and Neutrogena.
Recognizing early warning signs
“The main thing to watch out for is any sort of sudden or drastic change to any spot that's on the skin,” Dr. Zhao said. “[That could be] something that has never been there before and is now there, or something that was there and is now looking a lot different than it was.”
The ABCDEs of moles can help patients identify potentially concerning spots:
- Asymmetry
- Border irregularity
- Color variation
- Diameter (size)
- Evolution or change
What to expect during a skin exam
For those considering a full-body skin exam, the process is simple. Patients are asked to point out any specific concerns. Dr. Zhao uses a magnifying tool, known as a dermatoscope, to closely examine the skin for any abnormalities. If a spot appears concerning, a biopsy, a small in-office procedure, may be recommended.
“[A biopsy] takes about 10 minutes,” Dr. Zhao said. “We numb the skin, and we would take off a small piece of the skin to see if the spot is dangerous or not. It typically takes less than a week [to get the results back].”
For most skin cancers that are caught early, treatment is a 30-minute to one-hour long surgery to remove the skin around the biopsy site. The recovery time is typically two weeks after the procedure, with pain being gone within the first few days.
Comprehensive care and patient experience
Skyline Dermatology distinguishes itself by prioritizing patient experience and providing individualized care.
“Here at Skyline Dermatology, [patients] will see me, and nobody else,” Dr. Zhao said. “We also have a lot of availability and short wait times. Most times, I can get people in within the same week [as their appointment request].”
The practice accepts most forms of insurance, and for those without insurance, they offer reasonable cash pay rates.
“[Our cash pay rates] are usually somewhere between $100-$175 for a first visit,” Dr. Zhao said.
Taking action for skin health
Dr. Zhao's message for Skin Cancer Awareness Month is one of hope and proactive care.
“Skin cancer is the most likely form of cancer that people would get in their lifetime, but as long as they see a doctor, it is usually quite treatable and typically quite curable,” Dr. Zhao said. “With some effort, people can really reduce their risk over time. Developing some of these basic skin care practices can make a difference.”
These simple skin care habits can include daily sunscreen use, as well as wearing hats and Ultraviolet Protection Factor clothing, especially in Central Texas. Avoiding smoking, tobacco, staying active, eating healthy and limiting alcohol consumption can help maintain healthy skin as well.
Skyline Dermatology is ready to partner with you in your journey to achieve and maintain optimal skin health.
Call 512-623-2386 to book an appointment today, or visit their website to learn more.
The above story was produced by Multi Platform Journalist Sydney Heller with Community Impact's Storytelling team with information solely provided by the local business as part of their "sponsored content" purchase through our advertising team.
