Seattle, WA — While many beauty products claim to be the cure for all patient needs, Dr. Jodie Reinertson and her center for cosmetic dermatology in Seattle says skin care is often not as simple as one “quick-fix” remedy. Dr. Reinertson says revealing radiant, youthful skin requires a complex knowledge of the intricacies and delicacies of the different layers of one’s skin, as well as a comprehensive treatment designed to address each concern. She says patients must understand that skin care is not necessarily the process of choosing one treatment over the other, but of dissecting the individual parts of each aspect of dermal rejuvenation to find an overall harmonious balance.
Affecting over 40 to 50 million Americans and 85% of all people at some point in their lives, acne is the most common skin disorder in the United States according to the most recent statistics from the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). While Dr. Reinertson confirms the prevalence of acne at her Seattle cosmetic dermatology practice and says it is often one of the most requested treatments, she says there are a host of other skin conditions patients typically do not think of that can cause bothersome discomfort or lack of confidence. She says by breaking down the layers of the skin, she can recommend the proper treatment to help alleviate a wide range of patient concerns.
[Quote Requests: What are the most common requests you get at your practice and why is it important to have a vast knowledge of the skin’s structure to help address those concerns?]
Thinner than a sheet of tissue paper, the epidermis is the top layer of skin, giving it color and glow. Dr. Reinertson says this area often exhibits some of the most obvious signs of aging as skin cells do not slough off as quickly and begin looking blotchy and dull. She says patients at her practice typically complain of brown spots, uneven pigmentation, clogged pores, and bumps when the epidermal layer is involved. She says her treatment recommendations for conditions affecting the epidermis include chemical peels, microdermabrasion, retinoids and sunscreen, or acne treatment in Seattle.
Beneath the epidermis is a thick layer of densely meshed collagen, blood vessels, and elastin called the dermis. Because collagen and elastic tissues break down over time, Dr. Reinertson says skin loses its firmness and supple texture as the body ages. She says various treatments such as DOT laser therapy, dermal injections, or photofacials can help counteract the effects of natural aging to keep skin rejuvenated and refreshed.
The deepest layer of skin tissue lies underneath the dermis and is composed of sheets of fat and muscle. Dr. Reinertson says gravity and excess fat contribute largely to problem areas of the subcutaneous tissue, creating a dimpled or sagging appearance. She also says habitual facial expressions can lead to the formation of fine lines and wrinkles, while fat deposits can make patients feel uncomfortable with their bodies. Thanks to effective advancements in cosmetic procedures, Dr. Reinertson says procedures such as CoolSculpting® can remove troublesome fat beneath skin and create a smoother, tighter appearance. She also says undergoing BOTOX in Seattle will relax the facial muscles and help firm skin for a more youthful look. In fact, a study conducted in 2008 by a private research firm showed that BOTOX® injections were found to substantially improve patients’ lives. The study reported that 29% of patients felt less anxious, 36% felt more relaxed, and 49% were more optimistic following their treatment.
[Quote Request: How can treatments like BOTOX and other dermal products help patients achieve radiant, beautiful skin?]
Regardless of which treatment is determined to be best for helping patients achieve their goals, Dr. Reinertson says consulting with the proper medical professional is essential for achieving the best results. She says patients should be sure to research their practice extensively before undergoing any procedure, and encourages them to extensively research all options. Dr. Reinertson adds that partnering with an experienced cosmetic dermatology practice can help patients find a comprehensive plan for revealing the natural beauty of their skin.
[Quote Request: What is the most important thing for patients to consider when choosing a practice and a treatment for their skin care needs?]
About Jodie Reinertson, MD
Dr. Jodie Reinertson earned her undergraduate degree from Boston University and her medical degree from St. George’s University School of Medicine, where she graduated with honors. She also completed a Fellowship in Ultrasound, an Internship in Family Medicine, and a Residency in Radiology at the Albany Medical College and Medical Center Hospital. With over 25 years of medical knowledge and experience, Dr. Reinertson is a member of the International Academy of Cosmetic Dermatology, the International Society of Aesthetic Medicine, the American Society of Bariatric Physicians, the American Society for Laser Medicine & Surgery, and several other professional organizations.
Located at 901 Boren Avenue Suite 1900 in Seattle, WA, Dr. Reinertson’s practice can be reached at (206) 622-6444. She can also be contacted online via the website seattlecosmedicskincare.com or the CosMedic Skincare Facebook page.