Phone: (303) 355-3000 | Fax: (833) 615-8210 |
Phone: (303) 355-3000 | Fax: (833) 615-8210 |
Dermatologists are medical doctors who specialize in treating skin disorders. After 4 years of medical school, they complete an intern year, and a 3 year residency. At the end of their residency they take a board examination which tests their knowledge. After passing this exam, they earn the title “board certified dermatologist”. By the completion of their medical training, board certified dermatologists have received 12,000-16,000 hours of training in patient care.
There are many health care providers who offer cosmetic and other skin services. It’s important to note that these providers have not had the extensive dermatologic training that a board certified dermatologist has.
Dermatologists are trained to treat all disorders of the hair, skin and nails. They see patients of all ages, from newborns to the elderly. Click here for examples of conditions treated by our physicians. Please note that this list is not comprehensive.
While there are no set recommendations on how often you need to visit the dermatologist, it’s important to get a baseline skin exam as recommended by your doctor. Your dermatologist will then make an individualized plan for how often you need to return. We do recommend regular self skin exams every 1-3 months to monitor for new or changing lesions. If you do notice a new or changing skin growth, it’s imperative to return to the dermatologist as soon as possible for evaluation.
We recommend broad spectrum sunscreens that have UVB and UVA protection. You can find this written clearly on the bottle. It is best to wear at least SPF 30 and above and to reapply sunscreen every 2-3 hours. To adequately protect your skin, you need to use 1 oz of sunscreen (about a shot glass full).
Sunscreen consistency and texture is a personal preference. It’s important to find one that suits your preferences.
We understand that one of the best things about living in Colorado is enjoying the outdoors! To prevent unwanted harmful effects of UV exposure we recommend:
This is a controversial topic. However, the American Academy of Dermatology does not recommend getting vitamin D from sun exposure or indoor tanning. Unprotected sun exposure in a known risk factor for skin cancer, including melanoma. We recommend protecting yourself from harmful UV rays at all times.
Healthy dietary sources of vitamin D include salmon and egg yolks.
American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) position statement on Vitamin D
At your full body skin check, your doctor will look over you skin from head to toe. You will be asked undress down to your underwear. It is preferable to remove your bra. Please be prepared to remove your makeup. If you have any nail concerns, take off nail polish prior to your visit. We will also look through your scalp, so please avoid tight hairstyles and excess hair product.
In order to thoroughly assess the skin on your face, please remove all makeup prior to your visit. We will also need to look at the skin on your upper chest and back, so wear a loose fitting shirt or be prepared to undress from the waist up.
Please bring a list or photo of the products you are currently using, and of anything you have used in the past that did or did not work.
We have a doctor on call at all times. If you have an urgent need, please call our office and you will be directed to the on call doctor. We ask that you call during normal business hours for non-urgent questions, including prescription refills.
Your visit is scheduled with enough time for a full body skin exam (including time for biopsies and cryotherapy) or to assess 1-2 skin issues. We aim to address each issue fully. If you have multiple skin concerns, it may be necessary to schedule an additional appointment.
Longer procedures, such as cyst removal and cosmetic procedures, will be scheduled for a separate appointment.