Early detection is key to treating skin cancer

Our providers performed free skin cancer screenings at the Memorial Hospital Employee health fair on February 10, 2011.

August 2010,

        Dr. Michele Hughes is the latest dermatologist to join our clinic.  She joins us from Texas Tech University in Lubbock, Texas and brings her expertise in Mohs’ skin cancer surgery to the gulf coast.  No longer will our patients have to travel out of town for removal of difficult skin tumors.

       Dr. Hughes also practices general dermatology and enjoys pediatric dermatology as well.  Being well-rounded, Dr. Hughes enjoys cosmetic dermatology including wrinkle fillers, botulinum toxin injections, chemical peels, and laser resurfacing.  The Gulf Coast is fortunate to have such an accomplished new member of the medical community.

Vivify Spa is the first spa on the Coast under the direct supervision of board certified dermatologists.  This makes it unique in many ways.  Manicures and pedicures performed at the facility are “worry free” as the nail technicians are trained in techniques to promote optimal nail health.  All nail products and polishes used are formaldehyde and toluene free.  In addition, all of the nail instruments are sterilized by the same methods used to clean surgical instruments at the clinic insuring they will not transmit infections of any sort.  The aestheticians at Vivify Spa have special training in the care of a variety of skin conditions including acne, rosacea, psoriasis and melasma.  The chemical peels offered contain active ingredients only performed under physician supervision.  Therefore, clients can expect more results-oriented skin care.  The at home skin care lines retailed at the spa are found only in physician offices which is an added bonus to clients.  Silkpeel dermal infusion, Microdermabrasion, chemical peels,  and traditional facials are also offered.  Facial waxing, brow and lash tinting, and ear piercing are popular services.  Body treatments include therapeutic massage, full body exfoliation with a sugar rub, tightening and toning problem areas with the “Arasys inch loss system,” and airbrush tanning.  Arasys was chosen over body wraps because it can actually increase metabolism and strengthen muscles.  Airbrush tanning is an obvious choice in the dermatology setting since it is a safe alternative to sunbathing and tanning beds.

The spa is perfectly situated inside the dynamic dermatology practice of Drs. Wingfield and Sasaki where acne scarring and wrinkles can be improved by fractional laser resurfacing.  The wide array of lasers at the clinic can address practically any skin issue including age spots, unsightly veins, unwanted hair, unwanted tattoos, acne, and psoriasis.  The physicians also perform many cosmetic procedures such as Botox®, wrinkle fillers (Restylane®, Perlane®, Radiesse®, Sculptra®, Juvéderm®), Lipodissolve (injections to dissolve localized areas of fat), and leg vein sclerotherapy.

“Cosmetic dermatology is a large part of our practice, and the spa services really expand and enhance what we can offer to our patients.  We are taking things to a whole new level with our new venture, and I think the people of the coast deserve a first-class facility and experience that you would usually find in much larger cities.”