Cosmetic surgery and various non-invasive procedures have become a part of life for many. For those that are considering having a procedure done, it is important to know not just about the procedure, but also about the doctor that you choose to retain. Dr. Richie L. Lin, MD is the founder of the Dermatology Consultants of Short Hills, which is located in Essex, Morris and Union Counties in northern New Jersey. draws from The doctor has studied extensively, and provides his clients with the best knowledge and a variety of treatments. Dr. Lin was trained in New Jersey, San Francisco and New York City. He did so with some of the most respected figures in the medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology. The Dermatology Consultants of Short Hills provides non-invasive aesthetic procedures including Botox, Juvederm, Restylane, chemical peels and laser hair removal. Dermatological treatments for skin conditions including eczema, acne and psoriasis are available for clients as well as areas of specialized prevention.
In a new interview with Examiner.com, Dr. Richie L. Lin, MD shares knowledge, discussing various cosmetic surgery procedures, maintaining healthy skin and much more.
Katrina-Kasey Wheeler: Out of all the various areas of medicine, why did you decide to focus on dermatology? What specifically do you find rewarding about it?
Dr. Richie L. Lin, MD: I chose dermatology because our skin bears the scars of our lives, and tells us the story of us as humans. You can’t hide your skin, and first impressions are lasting. Helping heal someone’s skin issues helps them face the world with more confidence.
KKW: What is the #1 most common issue that most patients make appointments to discuss? Do you have many male patients that have various procedures done as well? Is plastic surgery as popular among men as it is women?
RLL: Most people come to the dermatologist to help improve the appearance and health of their skin. Many are worried that spots on their skin are dangerous, and as we treat suspicious spots we also discuss how to age gracefully. Men are starting to visit the dermatologist in increasing numbers as more men become aware of skin cancer and aging. The stigma men may have felt in the past about caring for their appearance has given way, and cosmetic procedures are increasing in popularity among men.
KKW: What advice would you give to someone with very sensitive skin who cannot find products that do not have adverse effects on their skin?
RLL: The number one piece of advice I have is “Less is More.” Simplify your skin care routine to the basic necessities, and choose products that do not contain common causes of irritation such as fragrance or preservatives. Of course, a little trial and error is often necessary, but if you are still struggling, seek the advice of a dermatologist. You may just need a little guidance, but there may be a more serious issue that deserves your attention.
KKW: What advice would you give to someone who has the occasional breakout? Are there specific ingredients in products that one should be looking for, and anything that should be avoided? What types of treatments do you offer to patients with acne? Is there anything in particular that proves the most effective?
RLL: People with mild acne or the occasional breakouts should start with an over-the-counter product that contains benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. If this does not improve the situation, you should have your skin evaluated by a dermatologist. A dermatologist has a lot of options to treat acne. In addition to topical and oral medications, in-office treatments include microdermabrasion, peels, and laser light treatments. There is no one-size-fits-all treatment for acne -- every person has a unique combination of remedies tailored to his or her specific needs.
KKW: Is there a particular brand of skin care that you recommend for those with problematic skin, and then for those fighting signs of aging?
RLL: There are many wonderful options out there, but I like the SkinCeuticals line of products. They have physician-grade ingredients to address signs of aging, acne-prone skin, and even sensitive skin.
KKW: There are many types of skin issues such as rosacea, and psoriasis. Has the science advanced to the point that effective treatments have been discovered? Also, how important is it to wear sunscreen on a daily basis? Should men wear it on their face as well on a daily basis?
RLL: Even in just the duration of my career, treatments for many chronic skin conditions have improved dramatically. Patients with severe cases of psoriasis or rosacea can walk around nearly symptom-free if they seek appropriate treatment. Wearing sunscreen on a daily basis, for both men and women, is the cornerstone of any skin care regime. Sunscreen not only helps prevent skin cancers caused by chronic sun exposure, but also helps prevent the signs of aging. Many products that you already use daily such as moisturizers and makeup are being formulated with sunscreen, and are a great option if you do not want to add another product to your regimen.
KKW: What advice would you give for those in their 20s and 30s who would like to start taking care of their skin in order to have nice skin in their older years?
RLL: Be good to your skin, you will have it for the rest of your life. This means wearing sunscreen daily, and moderating your sun exposure. Make sure you are eating a balanced diet, and get plenty of exercise and rest.
KKW: What is the most common treatment/procedure that your patients want done? Many people in the media discuss botox and fillers frequently. What is the difference, and is it ever appropriate to have both?
RLL: Botox has become the most common cosmetic procedure in the United States. It is a muscle relaxant that when placed properly can help ease the creases and wrinkles that develop as we age. Fillers such as Juvederm and Restylane, on the other hand, are used to replace lost collagen underneath the skin, and “re-plump” fine lines and wrinkles. The combination of Botox and fillers is often referred to as a non-surgical facelift, and many people with signs of aging will benefit from this combination.
KKW: When should one look into having plastic surgery as opposed to another type of procedure such as an injection?
RLL: The decision to move to more invasive procedures such as face-lifts is an individual one. In general, surgical procedures yield more noticeable and immediate results; depending on your goals for how you want to look, this may or may not be desirable. The decision should be made between you and your physician. Most important is to get a variety of opinions so you can make an informed decision.
KKW: Are there any new treatments and procedures that you would like to discuss that you foresee becoming popular in the future?
RLL: Non-invasive ways to treat unwanted fat and cellulite are the holy grail of cosmetic medicine, and the industry is on the brink of major innovations.
KKW: What is the key to beautiful skin at any age?
RLL: The key to beautiful skin is confidence in your appearance, which comes from taking good care of your body and skin.
For more information on Short Hills Dermatology Consultants and Dr. Richie L. Lin, MD, please visit the official website.
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