MetroDerm

August is Hair Loss Awareness Month

Hair loss can affect anyone, and while it's common, it's not something you have to simply accept. Understanding the cause is the first step toward finding the right treatment.

🔍 Did You Know?
Hair loss can happen for many different reasons. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, some of the most common causes include:

• Hereditary Hair Loss – The most common cause of hair loss in both men and women.
• Aging – Hair naturally becomes thinner as we get older.
• Alopecia Areata – An autoimmune condition that causes the body to attack hair follicles, leading to patchy hair loss.
• Cancer Treatments – Chemotherapy and radiation can cause temporary hair loss.
• Stress, Illness, or Childbirth – Significant physical or emotional stress can trigger increased shedding, often several months later.

👩‍⚕️ When Should You See a Dermatologist?
Schedule an evaluation if you notice:
• Sudden or excessive shedding
• Thinning hair or a widening part
• Patchy bald spots
• Hair loss after an illness or major life event
• Changes in your scalp, such as redness, scaling, or irritation

The sooner the cause is identified, the more treatment options may be available. Early intervention often leads to better outcomes.

💙 What NOT to Say to Someone Experiencing Hair Loss
Hair loss can have a significant emotional impact. Instead of offering quick fixes or comparisons, avoid comments such as:
• "It's just hair."
• "At least it's not something worse."
• "Have you tried this miracle product?"
• "Nobody notices."
• "You should just wear a hat/wig."

A little empathy can go a long way.

If you're concerned about hair loss, don't wait. A board-certified dermatologist can help determine the cause and create a personalized treatment plan to help with your hair restoration goals.

August is Psoriasis Awareness Month

Psoriasis is more than just dry or irritated skin. It's a chronic autoimmune condition that causes skin cells to build up too quickly, leading to inflamed, itchy, and sometimes painful patches on the skin.

🔍 Common Symptoms of Psoriasis
• Red, raised patches of skin covered with silvery scales
• Itching, burning, or soreness
• Dry, cracked skin that may bleed
• Thickened or ridged nails
• Joint pain or stiffness, which may be a sign of psoriatic arthritis

💙 Why Awareness Matters
Psoriasis affects millions of people and can impact more than just the skin. It may affect sleep, self-confidence, daily activities, and overall quality of life. Early diagnosis and proper treatment can help manage symptoms and reduce the risk of complications.

✨ Treatment Options Are Available
While there is no cure for psoriasis, many effective treatments can help control symptoms, including:
• Prescription topical medications
• Light therapy
• Oral medications
• Biologic therapies that target the immune system
• Personalized treatment plans based on your specific needs

If you're experiencing symptoms of psoriasis or struggling to manage your condition, a Dermatology Provider can help you find the right treatment plan.

Schedule an appointment today and take the next step toward healthier skin, MetroDerm.org.

📰 In the News

We're proud to share that MetroDerm's own Dr. Corrie Alford was recently featured in a HealthCentral article titled:
"Your HS Summer Survival Tool Kit"

In the article, Dr. Alford provides guidance for individuals living with hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), a chronic inflammatory skin condition that can become more challenging to manage during the hot summer months. She shares practical tips on reducing friction, managing moisture, choosing skin-friendly clothing, and staying proactive with treatment to help minimize flare-ups and improve comfort.

As a Board-Certified Dermatologist, Dr. Alford is committed to helping patients better understand and manage chronic skin conditions through personalized, evidence-based care. Her feature in HealthCentral highlights the expertise and compassionate care MetroDerm Providers bring to patients every day.

Read the full article and learn how to stay comfortable and confident this summer while managing HS, https://heyor.ca/TAPLlc.

July is Hyperpigmentation & Melasma Awareness Month

Dark spots, uneven skin tone, and patches of discoloration can affect more than just your appearance - they can impact your confidence, too. Hyperpigmentation and melasma are common skin concerns that can develop due to sun exposure, hormonal changes, inflammation, acne, and other factors.

The good news? There are treatment options that can help improve discoloration and restore a more even complexion.

Treatment options may include:
✨ Prescription topical medications
✨ Medical-grade skin care products
✨ Chemical peels
✨ Microneedling treatments
✨ Laser and light-based therapies
✨ Ongoing sun protection with daily SPF

Because every case is different, a personalized treatment plan is the best way to achieve safe, effective results.

If you or someone in your family is dealing with hyperpigmentation or melasma, schedule an appointment with our team to discuss your treatment options and take the first step toward healthier, more even-toned skin.

📅 Contact us today to schedule your consultation, MetroDerm.org.