Each patient's skin type is unique. Our approach to cosmetic dermatology at Albuquerque's Western Dermatology Consultants is custom-tailored to address your unique skin needs, no matter what they may be.

Treatments are designed to be customizable, work in combination with other strategies, and provide natural-looking, long-lasting results. Cosmetic treatments have become increasingly common in recent years—and they remain highly popular in 2023!

To learn more about cosmetic dermatology, contact Albuquerque's Western Dermatology Consultants. Call 505-855-9267 or fill out a contact form to request an appointment online.

What Causes Skin Damage and Premature Aging?

It might be easy to forget just how important your skin is. In fact, it's the largest organ you have, and our cosmetic dermatologists will tell you that in addition to chronological aging, our skin can be incredibly sensitive to factors like nutrition, exercise, hormonal changes, repetitive facial movements, stress, and external forces. Pollution, smoking, and exposure to the sun, for example, can make healthy, radiant skin become damaged over time.

What Is Cosmetic Dermatology?

What does a cosmetic dermatologist do? What is the difference between medical and cosmetic dermatology? If these are the things you are unsure about, we can explain everything you'll need to know.

Medical dermatology prioritizes treating medical conditions that impact the health of the skin. It typically involves treating a skin condition or disease, and while these can cause cosmetic problems, they have a significant health component as well.

Cosmetic dermatology or aesthetic dermatology is a subspecialty of dermatology that focuses on treatments for enhancing the appearance of the skin for aesthetic purposes. This type of dermatology can help you revitalize the look and feel of your skin.

The best type of care for you will depend on your needs.

You can visit the American Academy of Dermatology to check a doctor's certification and be sure that a claim to cosmetic dermatology is more than skin deep.

Which Conditions Can Be Treated with Cosmetic Dermatology?

Cosmetic dermatology treatments can address conditions or imperfections such as:

Wrinkles
Uneven Skin Tone
Unwanted Hair on the Face or Body
Excess Fat
Sagging Skin
Acne and Acne Scars
Spider Veins

Some patients may want to address signs of aging, while others may want to improve skin volume or tighten their skin. During your initial consultation, we will help you put together a treatment plan based on the current condition of your skin, what you want to have done, and the goals you would like to achieve. Regardless of your age, gender, or condition, our team will provide the most suitable treatments for you. Our board-certified dermatologists and trained, professional staff aim to provide the highest quality of cosmetic dermatology possible.

What Are the Most Common Types of Cosmetic Dermatology Treatments?

Here's are some of the most common types of cosmetic dermatology treatments available at Western Dermatology Consultants:

Botox ^®

Botox ^® and Dysport ^® are injectables that contain botulinum toxin as their primary active ingredient. These cosmetic treatments reduce dynamic wrinkles that are caused by habitual facial expressions. They block the release of a chemical messenger to prevent facial muscle contractions. The skin will look smoother, softer, and more youthful as a result.

Dermal Fillers

Dermal fillers are soft, gel-like substances used in aesthetic dermatology. They are injected into areas of the face to reduce static wrinkles that develop due to volume loss, or to enhance facial contours. Many popular fillers—such as Juvéderm ^® and Restylane ^®—are made of hyaluronic acid, which is a hydrating molecule found naturally in the skin.

Laser & Light Treatments

Laser and light-based treatments used in cosmetic dermatology employ light and heat to enhance the appearance of the skin in various ways. They can remove sections of the outer layers of skin in a controlled manner to stimulate regenerative processes. They also stimulate production of the skin's natural collagen. Options include PicoWay ^® for texture irregularities and fading tattoos, laser hair removal, photodynamic therapy, TempSure™ skin tightening, fractional laser treatments, and other lasers.

Exfoliating Treatments

Dead skin cells can often accumulate on the surface, resulting in clogged pores, more prominent wrinkles, and an uneven, dry, or discolored appearance. Cosmetic dermatology offers exfoliating treatments, such as chemical peels and microdermabrasion, to remove the outer layer of dead skin to improve the overall tone and texture. Facials can be customized for a relaxing experience and rejuvenated result.

Non-Surgical Fat Reduction

Even after losing fat and being close to your ideal body weight, you may have some "problem areas" or resistant pockets that fail to respond to diet or exercise. Cosmetic dermatology makes it possible to reduce this type of fat on isolated areas for more streamlined contours and a more balanced appearance. CoolSculpting ^® uses cold to prompt the breakdown of unwanted fat cells for good, since they are ultimately flushed out by the body.

More About Cosmetic Dermatology Treatments

From a eyelash-lengthening Latisse ^® to support for skin cancer treatments, Western Dermatology Consultants specializes in a vast array of cosmetic dermatology methods and procedures, all of which are safe and effective means of promoting your healthy and beautiful skin.

Looking for additional information about cosmetic dermatology in Albuquerque? Click the following links to learn more: