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It’s easy to get confused about insurance coverage for dermatology services. Here is what you should know before scheduling your appointment. 

If you’ve put off a visit to a dermatologist because you aren’t certain your health insurance will cover the costs, please be aware that many skin concerns or changes aren’t simply aesthetic matters — they might merit medical attention. 

While most dermatology clinics offer elective cosmetic services that address issues solely related to the appearance of your skin (laser hair removal, dermal fillers, and tattoo removal, for example), dermatologists are qualified doctors who diagnose and treat medical conditions. If you have concerns about a particular issue relating to the health of your skin, hair, or nails you might be able to apply your health insurance coverage to the cost of your treatment. Here are answers to a few common questions about coverage for dermatological concerns. Always consult with your medical insurance provider to understand what your plan covers. 

Is my issue cosmetic or medical? 

Health insurance coverage will depend on whether your visit is for an elective procedure or an underlying medical condition that needs treatment.  

In general, treatments that address abnormalities relating to illnesses, injuries, or congenital anomalies (lesions, scars, or birthmarks, for example) are covered. 

Although acne seems more like a cosmetic nuisance than a health concern, acne is a medical issue that might require an intervention your provider deems medically necessary under certain circumstances.

For a visit to be deemed a medical necessity, the dermatologist must perform an examination that assesses, identifies, or addresses a medical issue that will negatively affect your overall health if left untreated. Your insurance carrier will provide documentation of the conditions and treatments that qualify for coverage. 

If you are experiencing symptoms and aren’t sure if they would qualify for coverage under your plan, contact your insurance carrier for clarification or call one of our offices and we can help you review your coverage. 

Will my appointment be covered? 

To determine whether your evaluation will be covered by your carrier, you have to first find out if your dermatologist is in your carrier’s network. Your carrier will provide you with a list of the in-network dermatologists in your area. You can also contact a dermatology practice and ask if they accept your insurance plan. 

If you choose to contact a dermatology center directly, please have your insurance information handy so that you can provide the specific plan and policy details. Though some practices might accept an insurance carrier, they might not accept certain plans from that carrier. 

Will I have to be referred by my primary care physician? 

Your insurance carrier might require a referral before covering a visit to a specialist. If you have a point of service (POS) or a health maintenance organization (HMO) plan, your carrier will require a referral from a primary care physician for an in-network dermatologist. 

However, if you have a preferred provider organization (PPO) plan, you might be able to visit an in-network specialist directly. 

It is best to review your plan information with your insurance company. Your insurance card will have a member services phone number you can use to reach a representative who can discuss your coverage terms. 

Will I have out-of-pocket costs? 

Your plan might require you to pay a co-payment even if the treatment is deemed a medical requirement. Your plan might also require you to pay for a portion of your visit – or your entire visit – until you have met your deductible. 

If you have any questions about your insurance coverage, co-payments, your deductible, or payment plan options, we suggest reaching out to your insurance carrier directly but please don’t hesitate to contact us for assistance. We are here to help! 

Here are five new habits that will help you achieve healthy, beautiful skin in 2023! 

Make the most of this new year by adopting a few changes that will help improve and preserve the health of your skin. Here’s a list of lifestyle enhancements you can implement every week in January. 

Week 1: Get Moving and Boost Circulation 

Did you know that when you exercise, you’re also invigorating your skin? That’s right – your heart, lungs, and complexion all benefit from daily cardio.

Exercise helps nourish and maintain skin cells by increasing blood flow. Blood delivers oxygen and nutrient compounds to functioning cells in all parts of the body, and also helps to flush toxins and waste from active cells. You can almost think of exercise as an internal cleansing routine! 

However, if you exercise outdoors, you must take care to shield your skin from the sun’s UV rays, which can cause significant long-term damage. Before heading out for a morning jog, always use an effective, water-resistant sunscreen. One of our favorites is WestDerm Water-Resistant Mineral Sunscreen, an SPF 50 formula that delivers breathable, long-lasting protection that is gentle enough for sensitive and acne-prone skin. 

To maximize your sun protection, wear exercise clothes with as much coverage as practicable. Look for long-sleeved shirts and pants with a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) of at least 50. 

Week 2: Healthy Food for a Healthy Glow 

Give yourself an extra week to enjoy the last of the New Year’s treats before taking a look at how your diet impacts your skin’s health and vibrancy. While your favorite holiday foods might be comforting and delicious, they might not be the best choice for your skin health. 

The foods you eat influence how your body functions and looks; nutrient-dense foods affect your skin’s elasticity and clarity. However, processed foods with little nutritional value also affect your skin’s elasticity and clarity — for the worse. Years of poor nutrition can compromise the skin’s ability to heal, leaving it sallow, dry, and prone to inflammation. A diet deficient in zinc, vitamins E, C, and D, and omega-3 fatty acids can make you more susceptible to acne, keratosis pilaris, and eczema flare-ups. 

The right nutrients can help your skin overcome oxidative stress and enhance its elasticity. Adopting a healthy diet with plenty of vitamin-rich and colorful fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help slow the aging process and neutralize the free radicals that cause serious skin damage. Additionally, your diet can help minimize breakouts of chronic conditions like psoriasis. 

Week 3: Improve Sleep Hygiene 

Would it surprise you to find out that one of the most effortless ways to get clearer, healthier skin is to lie down and get some shut eye? 

Even when we’re sleeping, our bodies continue to work repairing our cells, flushing toxins, and promoting cognitive function. If you’ve ever felt sore, sluggish, and foggy after missing a night of sleep, it’s because your body was unable to perform its work — leaving you worse for wear. Over time, lack of proper sleep can cause significant health consequences, accelerate aging, and diminish your skin’s radiance. 

Maintaining a consistent sleep routine is crucial to the health of your skin. Make sure you achieve at least seven hours of restful sleep per night and do your best to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day — even on weekends and vacations. Be sure to wind down at the end of the day and avoid screen time right before bed; staring at smartphones, computers, and TV screens can interfere with the brain’s ability to unwind, making it difficult to fall asleep. 

Week 4: Make Time to De-Stress 

Chronic, unmanaged stress can cause significant damage to your appearance as well as to your overall health. Emotional stress can inhibit the repair of the epidermal barrier, which facilitates moisture retention and offers protection from bacteria and other potentially harmful pathogens. Moreover, increased levels of cortisol — the stress hormone — have been linked to thinning skin, inflammation, and accelerated aging. 

Stress management strategies can significantly reduce stress-related cellular damage. Some of the most effective stress reduction techniques include: 

• Mindful meditation 
• Exercise 
• Deep breathing 
• Yoga 

Week 5: Make an Appointment with a Qualified Dermatologist 

Make regular visits to your dermatologist one of your New Year’s healthy habits! While you can adopt numerous lifestyle changes that will help preserve your healthy, youthful skin, having a medical professional evaluate your skin once a year can also help keep you and your skin healthy. At an annual visit our physicians and providers can recommend specific, individualized skin treatments that will directly address your unique issues and detect skin cancers and other conditions before they worsen.

To schedule an appointment with our board-certified team of dermatologists and skin care experts, please visit our information page to find a location nearest you today. 

The New Year is almost upon us, and it’s time to take a look toward the future – the future of our skin. 

We don’t often think of skin health as distinct from overall health, but skin cancer is the most widely diagnosed cancer in the United States. Because dermatologists are uniquely experienced and trained in identifying potentially serious skin abnormalities, having a regular skin cancer screening gives you the best possible chance of a quick and easy recovery if any suspicious moles are found. 

Of course, everyone needs more than one resolution! In addition to scheduling your annual skin check, here are a few other skin-related goals you should consider in the coming year. 

Have a skin check. 

Let’s be clear: everyone should be screened for skin cancer. However, if you have a family history of skin cancer, multiple moles, or a history of intense UV exposure, you are at a particularly high risk. 

A skin check is a comprehensive evaluation of your entire body, including your scalp, face, behind your ears, and every crack and crevice of your body down to the soles of your feet. 

But before your appointment, you should examine your entire body to see if there are any unusual growths or changes that might be of concern. If you notice anything different, alert your doctor before the examination begins. 

Keep it simple, sweetie! 

The sheer number of skincare products on the market can seem overwhelming, especially because there are so many different options for addressing common issues. However, more isn’t always better. 

Regularly layering on multiple skin care products can leave skin irritated, inflamed, and more susceptible to sun damage and accelerated aging. You might not even be experiencing the benefit of the active ingredients because different, incompatible products could interfere with other products’ efficacy. 

Instead, give your skin’s barrier a boost by getting out of its way. The outermost skin layer – commonly known as the barrier – protects the skin’s internal layers from environmental toxins, helps prevent water loss, and shields you from bacteria that could cause breakouts. Sticking to a simple routine and using a line of products designed to work together for enhanced effectiveness is your best bet. 

If acne is your primary concern, WestDerm’s Acne Kit is a fantastic, medical-grade product line that gently exfoliates while protecting your skin from oxidative damage.

For skin that can use a bit more hydration, the Ultimate Hydration Regimen is a comprehensive kit that helps skin retain needed moisture with Green Tea Polyphenols and Hyaluronic Acid. 

Don’t ignore your body! 

Of course – we don’t ignore our body skin, exactly. However, many of us take greater care with our selection of facial products than we do with our choice of body wash. 

This new year, give your whole body the love you give your face! Our Glycolic Skin Softening Body Lotion with 15% Glycolic Acid is an oil-free, light, and highly moisturizing product that smooths out rough patches and leaves skin buttery soft. 

If you struggle with occasional breakouts on your chest, back, and shoulders, WestDerm Body Acne Clearing Spray delivers a Salicylic Acid and Glycolic Acid formula that helps unclog pores and slough away dead skin cells that lead to inflammation and breakouts. 

Be vigilant about sunscreen. 

Wintertime is no time to be slack about sun protection. Even if your body is mostly shielded from the cold, your face and neck are still exposed to the sun’s rays. Make sure your New Year’s resolution is to apply a generous layer of sunscreen to your face and lips daily. One of our favorites is WestDerm’s Antioxidant Moisturizing Sunscreen with SPF 50. 

As for your lips, WestDerm’s Plumping Lip Treatment with SPF 30 protects your lips from damaging UV rays while giving them a luscious volume boost with Hyaluronic Acid. 

Schedule your New Year skin check with us today! 

One of the best holiday gifts you can give yourself is a complete skin check by a qualified dermatologist. Begin 2023 with a focus on your skin’s health and radiance! 

To find a clinic near you, please visit our location page and schedule an appointment today! 

Between finding everyone the perfect gift, making travel plans, and entertaining relatives, sometimes you just need some comforting and delicious wintertime goodies – goodies that might not always agree with your skin. Moreover, the exhaustion, travel, and extra holiday stress could leave you looking less than refreshed. While we won’t ask you to forgo the yuletide treats and tipples (hello, eggnog season!), we will give you some suggestions on how you can lessen the impact on your skin. Check out our list of dos and don’ts that can keep your complexion looking bright & merry during the holidays and beyond! 

Don’t: Forget to remove your makeup. 

Whether you slay your makeup every day or just use a dab of tinted moisturizer, you must always remove your makeup thoroughly before bed. Even the gentlest cosmetics attract environmental pollutants that will remain on your skin until you cleanse your face. These pollutants can contain free radicals that damage skin and accelerate aging. 

Moreover, wearing makeup overnight can clog pores and create an environment where acne-causing bacteria can flourish. 

The holiday season is filled with parties and get-togethers; performing a full nighttime cleansing routine after an evening of celebrating can seem like a drag, but it’s worth it in the long run. A fantastic (and fast) makeup remover is ISDIN Micellar Solution 4-in-one cleansing water. This fragrance-free, soap-free, alcohol-free solution removes makeup, oil, and impurities quickly, leaving skin soft and hydrated. 

Do: Have a gentle, consistent cleansing routine. 

Keeping your skin free of dirt, makeup, and environmental toxins is a key step in maintaining a healthy complexion. Your cleansing routine should start with a gentle product that removes daily impurities while addressing your unique skin needs.  

If you have oily, breakout-prone skin, a great product to try is WestDerm Benzoyl Peroxide 10% Wash with Aloe Vera. This oil-free cleanser offers powerful anti-acne ingredients that target bacteria that cause breakouts and inflammation without drying or irritating sensitive skin. Soothing aloe vera facilitates healing existing breakouts and keeps skin soft and hydrated. 

If you have dry skin, WestDerm Green Tea Cleansing Cream offers hydrating Green Tea Polyphenols, effectively moisturizing your skin while combatting free radical damage. 

Don’t: Visit the tanning salon. 

When winter approaches, it can be tempting to retain a sun-kissed glow with the help of a tanning bed. Tanning beds are in no way safer than sun exposure; UV exposure from indoor tanning beds can significantly raise the risk of developing basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma – two types of skin cancer. 

To get a healthy, radiant glow, skip the tanning bed and wake up the beautiful and healthy skin underneath. A rejuvenating facial boosts collagen production enhances circulation and aids in the flushing of toxins. 

Do: Remember your lips! 

Keep your lips mistletoe-ready by making sure they are always soft, smooth, moisturized, and protected with WestDerm Plumping Lip Treatment with SPF 30. This multipurpose lip plumping and protecting treatment not only shields lips from damaging ultraviolet exposure but also delivers several forms of hyaluronic acid that attract and retain moisture. Best of all — it facilitates collagen production for healthy, youthful lips year-round! 

Don’t: Make a habit of using UV nail lamps for your mani-pedis. 

To be clear: While there have been reports of squamous cell carcinoma of the hands connected with continued, long-term use of UV lamps for drying and curing nails, a single, isolated use of a UV nail lamp has not been shown to raise the risk of cancer. Nevertheless, it’s best to avoid unnecessary UV exposure if you have a health condition that makes you sensitive to UV rays or if you are on medications or supplements that increase your UV sensitivity. 

Also – don’t be fooled by a curing lamp that is labeled “LED” lamp rather than “UV” lamp. Both devices emit UVA rays and present the same level of risk to your skin and nails. 

If you have a nail condition that compromises the appearance of your nails, don’t use mani-pedis to cover it up – have it treated. To keep your nails healthy and beautiful this season, have them checked for issues and infections that can compromise their appearance.   

Do: Wear sunscreen. 

Just because the weather is cooler doesn’t mean you can forget sun protection; the sun’s rays are just as powerful in the fall as they are in the warmer months. 

One of our favorite sunscreens is EltaMD UV Sport Broad-Spectrum SPF 50, a water-resistant, mineral sunscreen that will shield your skin and nails from harmful UV rays. 

Do: Schedule an appointment with a qualified dermatologist physician or provider. 

Give yourself the gift of healthy skin this holiday season with a visit to one of our state-of-the-art dermatology centers. To find the location nearest you, please visit our information page and book an appointment today! 

With the end of the year nearly here, it’s the perfect time to reflect on your 2021 health and skincare routine. If you find there’s room for improvement in your daily practices, fear not…simple adjustments can make all the difference! Take a look at our 12 days of skin tips, and follow along to boost your skin health in less than two weeks.

DAY ONE: Put a sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher near your toothpaste. This way, you’ll see it first thing and remember to apply it every day. Limiting your UV exposure is a proven way to reduce your skin-cancer risk. We recommend ISDIN Eryfotona Actinica SPF 50. Shop HERE.

DAY TWO: Perform a skin self-check. Look at every inch of your skin from head to toe for any dark spots with irregular borders or other suspicious marks. If anything seems out of the ordinary, schedule an appointment with a dermatologist to get tested for skin cancer. Repeat the self-exam at least once every month—it could save your life. Outcomes are much better when patients get a cancer diagnosis early.

DAY THREE: Schedule a dermatology exam. If you’ve had skin cancer before or have a family history of skin cancer, then make a habit of seeing a dermatologist at least once a year. Your provider will check for any suspicious growths and biopsy as needed, so you have a diagnosis if necessary and a plan of action.

DAY FOUR: Buy a humidifier. Dry winter air leads to dry, itchy winter skin, and indoor heating can make the problem worse. Add some much-needed moisture back into the air and your skin will thank you.

DAY FIVE: Buy a gentler soap. Clarifying cleansers can strip skin of the oil it needs to stay smooth and supple. A sensitive skin formula could keep your skin from drying out. We recommend WestDerm Gentle Antioxidant Soothing Cleanser. Shop HERE.

DAY SIX: Put your lotion next to the sink or shower. Your skin absorbs moisture most effectively after being wet, so make it easy for yourself to moisturize right after bathing.

DAY SEVEN: Dig out your warmest, loosest clothes. Loose clothes are less likely to cause chafing than tight ones.

DAY EIGHT: Cook yourself a fish dinner. If you don’t eat fish, try walnuts or chia seeds. The omega fatty acids in these foods help prevent dry skin.

DAY NINE: Read or look up the ingredients on your soaps and lotions. If they contain alcohol or fragrances, they might be drying out your skin. To minimize the risk of dehydration, you might try sensitive-skin or fragrance-free formulas.

DAY TEN: Drop lip balm in your purse or briefcase. Dry winter weather can lead to chapped lips. Take a balm or salve wherever you go to keep your lips hydrated. We recommend SkinCeuticals Antioxidant Lip Repair. Shop HERE.

DAY ELEVEN: Swap out your laundry detergent. If you have sensitive skin, a harsh detergent can lead to irritation when your clothes contact your body. Opt for a fragrance-free formula instead.

DAY TWELVE: Sign up for a yoga class. If yoga’s not your thing, go for a hike or meditate. Stress relief benefits your whole body, including your skin.

You can use this tip list to pick and choose the best ones that work for you and your specific skin type and lifestyle. The important thing is to consider your health and give your skin what it deserves at year-end and year-round!

We cannot stop the aging process, but we can ensure we age gracefully. Adopting a healthy diet is one of the most effective ways to slow the signs of aging. Did you know certain seasonal foods can help your skin preserve and even enhance its radiant glow? But before you dive into the pumpkin pie, it’s important to learn more about the effects seasonal foods can have and how to get the most out of them. In recognition of National Healthy Skin Month, here’s how to keep your skin healthy from the inside out. 

The air is crisp and clean, and the leaves are turning beautiful shades of gold and red, but for most of us, the month of November means festive holiday tables filled with delicious food – food that isn’t necessarily always great for our skin. However, some of the most nutritionally dense fruits and vegetables are also coming into season. 

The benefits of eating seasonal produce are endless. When your fruits and vegetables are in season, they are likely fresher and more flavorful. You can also supplement your diet with nutrients that might not be as prevalent in spring and summer produce. Many of these nutrients are particularly good for the skin. 

Fall Foods for Healthy Skin 

Limit your consumption of sugary, fatty, high-calorie foods and instead enjoy a fall harvest of seasonal fruits and vegetables. Here are some of the most skin-friendly autumnal foods you can enjoy at the Thanksgiving table and throughout the season. 

Butternut Squash 

Orange vegetables are high in vitamins that provide tremendous skin-nourishing benefits. Vitamin A is among the most potent nutrients for beautiful skin – it supports cell turnover and wound healing. It also facilitates the hydration of skin cells. One serving of butternut squash delivers the full recommended daily allowance of vitamin A. 

Some of the other nutrients in butternut squash include magnesium, potassium, and vitamin C. This powerhouse vegetable can aid in managing blood pressure and diabetes, and might even reduce the risk of certain cancers. 

Sweet Potatoes 

Sweet potatoes are also among the orange vegetables rich in vitamin A, and they are also very high in fiber and antioxidants. These nutrients promote skin health by aiding in nutrient delivery to skin cells, improving circulation, and combatting oxidative stress. These root vegetables also contain high concentrations of vitamins B3, B5, and E. 

Pumpkin

While this popular squash is commonly found in pies around holiday time, it can be enjoyed in soups, roasted on its own, and put in ravioli. Rich in vitamins A, C, and E, this high-nutrient orange vegetable is a fantastic addition to your meal rotation for its blood pressure-lowering, immune system-boosting properties. 

Bonus: pumpkin seeds can boost HDL cholesterol (the good cholesterol). They also contain magnesium and tryptophan, which can help facilitate restorative sleep. 

Cranberries

That cranberry sauce shouldn’t be an afterthought – cranberries contain phytonutrients that boast significant anti-inflammatory benefits. These nutrients help keep acne breakouts at bay too! 

Factors That Affect Skin Health 

Unfortunately, many of our favorite holiday foods are less-than-great for our health. You can adversely impact the health of your skin by consuming high-fat foods, processed food, and high-sugar drinks. It has been shown that eating too many processed foods containing refined sugars, carbohydrates, and unhealthy fats can trigger hormonal fluctuations that cause acne and inflammation of the skin, which contribute to the aging process. 

Although eating the right foods can mitigate many common skin issues, there are other elements that impair skin quality. 

• Oxidative stress: An overabundance of free radicals harms your cells by causing a phenomenon called oxidative stress. This reaction contributes to the outward signs of skin aging: skin discoloration, loss of elasticity, and the development of lines and wrinkles. Smoking, stress, sun exposure, and consuming alcohol all contribute to the excessive development of free radicals.   
• Inflammation: Skin damage can be caused by inflammation in the body. Lack of restorative sleep, stress, and a sedentary lifestyle can increase the inflammatory response, leading to rashes, hives, skin dryness, and chronic health conditions.   
• Poor hydration: Dry skin occurs when your cells are dehydrated; the outermost skin cells shrink in size, lose elasticity, and alter the texture of your skin. While drinking sufficient water is important, dry skin tends to be exacerbated by lifestyle and environmental factors. These factors include dry weather, excessive sun exposure, harsh soaps, smoking, and heavy alcohol consumption.  

Skin-Freshening Solutions 

If you want to look your absolute best this holiday season, there are numerous rejuvenating procedures that can restore your gorgeous glow. 

• Wrinkle Reduction: If you have deep lines or wrinkles, you can significantly diminish their appearance via injectable treatments like Botox and dermal fillers. We also offer radiofrequency-based treatments that accelerate cellular turnover and collagen production, leaving skin smoother and firmer. 
• Acne Control: Acne struggles can be demoralizing. If you want to get rid of pimples and blackheads, we offer prescription retinoids, oral or topical medications, chemical peels, and laser therapies that can yield dramatic improvement. 

Skin-friendly lifestyle changes  

If you have skin concerns, see a dermatologist before taking corrective measures. However, there are steps you can take to improve the appearance and texture of your skin.   

Stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, reduce alcohol consumption, and stop smoking. Limiting alcohol consumption means you aren’t exposed to as high a volume of free radicals, so your skin is less likely to suffer from oxidative stress. If your skin is dehydrated, increasing your water consumption could help, but ambient moisture — from a humidifier or even house plants — could also be beneficial.  

If your complexion isn’t what you’d like it to be, please don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation with a qualified dermatology provider at a clinic near you. Please visit our information page to find a convenient location.