Skin Deep Newsletter, Summer 2009

Sun Beds Cause Cancer?  Probably Becomes Definitely
We’ve always discouraged our patients from using tanning beds. Now we can site a conclusive new analysis, which shows that skin cancer rates jump by a convincing 75% when people begin using tanning beds before the age of 30.

International cancer experts have now moved tanning beds and ultraviolet radition into the top cancer risk category, deeming both to be definite causes of cancer. In the world of medical studies, it doesn’t get more conclusive than this.

The research was published by experts working for the cancer arm of the World Health Organization. The report noted that as the use of tanning beds has increased among people under 30, doctors have seen a parallel rise in the numbers of young people with skin cancer. Of those skin cancers, there is a 20% increased risk of potentially life-threatening malignant melanoma.

If you (or your daughters and sons) have been using tanning beds hoping that the jury was still out on the cancer question, the verdict is now in. Tanning beds cause skin cancer. It’s time to swear off them for good.

Got To Have A Savage Tan?  Well, if you insist . . . First, don’t accept sun tanning as a second best solution. Unfortunately, too much sunshine also conclusively causes skin cancer. The better way to get a radiant look is with self bronzing creams. The effectiveness of these cosmetics varies, but generally speaking they have come a long way since their commercial introduction in the 1960s.

Rosacea
What It Is.  Rosacea (rose-AY-sha) is a facial skin disorder that can appear as redness, flushing, or tiny blood vessels. The condition may or may not include acne. Other possible symptoms include stinging, burning, itching, skin roughness or tiny rash-like bumps. Some people may even develop burning and grittiness of the eyes. If left untreated, rosacea can worsen.

• Causes.  The cause for rosacea is unknown. Although there is no cure for the condition, there are many treatment options to keep it under control. Traditionally, topical medications and oral antibiotics can be effective in controlling the acne and other symptoms of rosacea. Lasers and other therapeutic light treatments can reduce persistent redness and blood vessels.
• Self Care.  For some, rosacea can be exacerbated by spicy foods, hot drinks, alcohol, physical exertion, emotional stress, sun or cold exposure. Knowing and avoiding your specific triggers helps. In addition, people with rosacea tend to have more sensitive skin. Thus, avoiding irritating products in cosmetics, moisturizers and sun block is essential.
• Natural Therapies.  Some research evidence shows that natural therapies may further enhance the traditional pharmacologic treatment of rosacea. Azelaic acid, commonly used in prescription acne and rosacea treatment, is a chemical that is extracted from castor bean and has numerous beneficial effects. Other natural ingredients showing potential include soy, feverfew, oatmeal, licorice, lavender, green tea and chamomile.
• Learn More.  If you are concerned that you may have rosacea, or if you have difficulty finding products that don’t irritate your skin, contact us to schedule an evaluation at (303) 604-1444.  We’re here to help!

Easy Payment Solutions
We will be instituting Easy Payment Solutions for your remaining medical bill balance. We will continue to submit your insurance claims to your insurance provider. If there is a remainder balance that is your responsibility after we receive the insurance allowable payment, you will be billed for this balance and it will be due within 60 days. Easy Payment Solutions will be convenient for you in these cases as you can choose to use your credit card or voided check on file, or you can send in another form of payment. If the balance remains after the 60 days, BVCD will use the method of payment on file to clear your account if the amount is up to $200. If the balance amount is greater than $200, we will notify you. At the time of your appointment, you can leave a SECURELY ENCRYPTED imprint of your credit/debit card or a voided check on file. Co-payments will still be due at the time of your appointment. If you have any questions regarding this policy, please feel free to contact us at (303) 604-1444. Thank you for your cooperation.