Skin Republic

Dear Dr. Jen,

My dermatologist recommended fractional laser to improve my skin. What exactly does it do?

Denise

Dear Denise,

Fractional laser is a non-invasive treatment that targets a fraction of skin at a time.  There are two kinds: the erbium: Yag (superficial) and the carbon dioxide lasers (deeper). 

Fractional laser is great for minimizing pore size, evening out skin tone, and especially for improving acne scars.  In addition, it also contributes to collagen remodeling making the skin tighter over all. 

It is a quick procedure and should be done in monthly intervals. Staying out of direct sunlight helps ensure no darkening occurs after.

Dear Dr. Jen,

Are warts contagious? My husband has several around my neck and I’m scared I might get infected.

Doreen

Dear Doreen,

The “warts” around your husband’s neck may not be the real viral, contagious warts that people talk about.  They are likely to be skin tags or in medical terms, dermatosis papulosa nigricans (DPNs).  These skin tags are not contagious but they may grow more in number over time simply secondary to the normal ageing process, sun exposure and collar friction.

Removal is painless and easily done.  Have someone trained to perform it, preferably a PDS dermatologist.  It’s important that the physician removing the warts know the layers of the skin so as not to do it too deeply.  Otherwise, you can form deep and/or dark scars afterwards.