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Yakima Dermatology provides a full range of general dermatological services so you can enjoy the healthy skin you deserve.
Dermatologists are trained to treat patients of all ages, from newborns to the elderly. This includes the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of problems of the skin, hair and nails. Conditions common among children are moles and birthmarks, dermatitis, acne, warts, vitiligo, insect bites and birth defects. In adults we treat a range of conditions such as cancers and pre-cancers, rosacea, psoriasis and shingles. We also treat eczema, allergies and other disorders that occur in all age groups, and carefully examine moles or other growths to determine whether they are or may become cancerous.
A few precautions on your part and regular examinations by a dermatologist can prevent certain skin conditions and ensure that any developing problems are detected and treated early. Good preventive skin care includes wearing sunscreen of at least SPF 15 when outdoors, keeping the skin clean, avoiding tanning booths and other sources of intense ultraviolet light, not scratching or picking at rashes or pimples, and seeing a medical professional for evaluation if you suspect a problem. Older patients should make appointments about once a year. Give us a call to schedule an appointment: (509) 575-6888.
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 Acne is the term for the blocked pores (blackheads and whiteheads), pimples, and deeper lumps (cysts or nodules) that can appear typically on the face, neck, chest, back, shoulders and upper arms. Seventeen million Americans currently have acne, making it the most common skin disease in the country. While it affects mostly teenagers, and almost all teenagers have some form of acne, adults of any age can have it. Acne is not life-threatening, but it can cause physical disfigurement (scarring) and emotional distress.
Treatment for acne varies depending on the type and severity of lesions, skin type and the patient’s age and lifestyle, but on average results are visible in six to eight weeks. Options include:
- Laser resurfacing
- Soft tissue fillers and fat transfer
- Punch excisional surgery for deep "ice-pick" pitted scarring
- Dermabrasion and microdermabrasion
Patients with mild acne can supplement treatment at home by washing with warm water and a mild soap twice a day and/or using a topical over-the-counter acne medication.
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Moles and other birthmarks are benign pigmented spots or patches of skin that range in color from tan, brown and black (moles) to red, pink or purple (vascular nevi, such as strawberry hemangiomas or port wine stains). Though most birthmarks are harmless, they may develop into cancer. Moles exhibiting any of the following warning signs should be examined by a professional immediately:
- Larger than six millimeters.
- Itches or bleeds.
- Rapidly changes in color, size or shape.
- Has multiple colors.
- Is located where it can't be easily monitored, such as on the scalp.
Depending on their depth, location and color, as well as the patient’s skin type, age and other factors, treatment for benign but unattractive birthmarks may take the form of laser or pulsed light therapy, microdermabrasion or surgical excision.
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 Skin cancer refers to the abnormal, uncontrolled growth of skin cells. The most common skin cancers are basal cell carcinoma (affecting cells in the lowest layer of the epidermis) and squamous cell carcinoma (affecting cells in the middle layer of the epidermis). A rarer but more dangerous skin cancer is melanoma, the leading cause of death from skin disease.
Risk factors for developing skin cancer include pale skin, family history of melanoma, being over 40 years old, and regular sun exposure. Skin cancers vary in shape, color, size and texture, so any new, changed or otherwise suspicious growths or rashes should be examined immediately by a physician. Early intervention is essential to preventing the cancer from spreading. / |
