EXPERT ADVICE WELLNESS

Beneath the Mask:

How to Care for Your Skin

The stress of the pandemic can lead to poor skin conditions, but the expert team at Associates in Dermatology can assist you in putting your best face forward in 2021.

By Michael Steppie, Associates in Dermatology

Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, the dreaded “maskne,” wash your face thoroughly and apply a professional and personal lives of many have been small layer of oil-free moisturizer before wearing your mask. turned upside down. The levels of increased anxiety Women should also avoid applying heavy makeup that can being experienced can have a dramatic effect on overall well- clog pores and cause breakouts beneath it. being. Though it may not be thought of initially, one of the When you have issues with your skin, it’s important to consequences of all this stress is poor skin health. consult with a professional to find the root cause of the

During the pandemic, the area around the eyes has problem. My team and I have had the pleasure of helping gained attention. While it’s been said that the eyes are the countless patients pinpoint the causes of their issues, clear window to the soul and can communicate various emo- their skin and retain their confidence. Our practice gives tions, this area is also particularly susceptible to damage like patients their best chance for a proper diagnosis and an inwrinkles, dehydration lines, puffiness and other visible signs dividualized treatment plan while keeping their safety in of aging. Now, masks have made the eyes the focal point. mind with strict sanitizing guidelines.

Because the skin around the eyes is thinner than the rest Convenience of care is another focus at our practice. of the face and more delicate, it can damage easily. The skin We have introduced a new paperless and contactless option needs proper treat- for check-in and payment and time to re- ments. Patients can group and rejuvenate. now submit their in-

Also keep in formation from the mind that something comfort of home as simple as the laun- with their cell phone. dry detergent you use No matter what can have consequenc- your skincare needs es on your skin. If the area beneath your General & Surgical Dermatology are, the dedicated providers at Associmask becomes irritat- Cosmetic Dermatology ates in Dermatology ed, it’s a good indicaIncluding: can assist you with tor that the brand of detergent you’re using is the root of your problem — not the President & Medical Director Michael Steppie, MD Botox ® & Fillers any concern, including clinical questions and cosmetic services that will help you put mask itself. 16 Central FL Locations your best face for-

To help with 800-827-7546 • DermOrlando.com ward in 2021. skin irritation and the

Michael Steppie, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and Mohs micrographic surgeon, is one of the few elite members of the Skin Cancer Foundation’s Amonette Circle. At Associates in Dermatology’s 16 area locations, including Celebration, Dr. Phillips, Hunter’s Creek, Ocoee and Winter Garden, patients are offered a range of cosmetic dermatology services, including Botox, fillers and chemical peels.