Dr. Michael Steppie
Dr. Michael Steppie is an Orlando dermatologist and an expert in how to take good care of your skin, hair and nails during the winter months.
The practice of dermatology involves improving and maintaining not only the appearance but also the health of your skin, hair and nails. Perhaps you’ve noticed changes like these over the past few months:
• HEALTHY SKIN: As the humidity decreases in the winter months our skin becomes dry and even itchy. A hot shower may seem a go-to respite for warmth. However, prolonged heat can actually do more harm than good because it disrupts the skin barrier, which serves as physical protection, and further dehydrates the skin.
• HEALTHY SCALP: Just as with the skin on your face and hands, the winter cold and the dry, artificial heat generated by heating systems can sap the moisture from your scalp and hair. Thus, it’s common to experience a dry, itchy scalp as the weather turns colder and you seek warmth indoors.
• HEALTHY NAILS: Your nails can become dry, brittle and split during winter as well. It’s essential to avoid using harsh soaps and nail hardeners as the chemicals found in these products can actually damage your nails, leaving them weak and brittle over time.
Underlying Health Factors
While they may seem tempting, quick fixes that address only the appearance of your skin and nails, ignoring underlying health factors, will only allow for further damage. For instance, hiding unsightly nail fungus beneath colorful nail polish or buying a harsh, drugstore shampoo based solely on the promises made in the packaging will simply mask or even exacerbate the issues.
Your look is understandably important, but your health is all the more critical. After all, you deserve more than just a makeover. You deserve a thorough audit and treatment of any and all health issues that may affect your look and your life.
It’s also time to put your best face forward in 2020, especially if you’re the lucky one tying the knot, or if you are the mother of the bride or groom! In addition to our expertise in skin cancer treatment and general dermatology, many of the dermatology providers at Associates in Dermatology are experienced in rejuvenating procedures, including Botox and fillers. They’re here to recommend the option that will fit your specific needs and desired outcomes.
So ensure the health and vibrancy of your skin, hair and nails by scheduling a consultation with Associates in Dermatology.
Michael Steppie, MD is the president and medical director of Associates in Dermatology, which has served the medical, surgical and cosmetic dermatology needs of Central Floridians for over 30 years in 16 convenient locations.
Comments