The coronavirus (COVID-19) is changing the way facial fillers and other cosmetic treatments designed to address skin issues are delivered. In this episode of the Smile podcast, world-renowned facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr. Babak Azizzadeh and Dr. Rebecca Fitzgerald, a leading cosmetic dermatologist in the Los Angeles area, discuss COVID-19 and its impact on the skin.
How Does COVID-19 Affect the Skin?
COVID-19 can cause a wide range of symptoms — everything from rashes to hair loss. Common COVID-19 symptoms that involve the skin include:
- Red bumps and patches
- Skin discoloration
- Hives
- Blisters
The aforementioned symptoms of COVID-19 can range from mild to severe, and they can impact the facial appearance. At the first sign of any COVID-19 symptoms, it is paramount to seek medical support. That way, people can get tested for COVID-19 and have their symptoms evaluated. They can also determine the best course of action to mitigate their symptoms.
How to Treat Skin Issues Caused by COVID-19
A dermatologist can offer tips and recommendations to help people manage skin issues. Additionally, a dermatologist can provide a personalized treatment plan designed to help a patient limit the risk of long-term skin issues.
Along with a dermatologist, a facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon can perform different treatments to help patients manage skin problems. Among the most-popular cosmetic procedures that a facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon can perform to treat skin issues: Botox and laser skin resurfacing.
During Botox, a patient receives injectable treatments into different areas of the face. Botox reduces excess muscle movement that can otherwise cause facial lines, wrinkles, and other skin issues. In doing so, Botox can help revitalize the facial appearance.
Botox delivers immediate results, and it provides a viable alternative to a facelift and other cosmetic surgeries. However, the results of Botox are temporary, and patients usually require follow-up treatments every three to four months.
Whereas Botox is an injectable treatment, laser skin resurfacing involves DOT Deka laser skin treatments. Patients undergo laser skin resurfacing to correct sun-damaged skin, scars, and other facial blemishes. They can also use laser skin resurfacing to treat melasma, acne, and skin texture and tone issues.
What Is the Best Option to Treat Skin Issues?
Dermatologists, facial plastic and reconstructive surgeons, and other medical professionals are offering virtual consultations to patients dealing with skin issues during the coronavirus pandemic. With virtual consultations, patients can discuss their skin issues via a video chat. That way, they can receive expert insights into their skin issues and find safe, effective ways to treat them.
If a patient undergoes a cosmetic procedure to treat skin issues during the pandemic, medical practices are taking proper measures to guard against the spread of COVID-19. These practices require patients to wear masks and follow social distancing guidelines. They also limit the number of patients that can enter their premises and ensure their spaces are cleaned and sanitized frequently.
Learn More About COVID-19 and the Skin
Skin care is important, even during the coronavirus pandemic. If people understand how to properly care for the skin, they are well-equipped to maintain healthy skin. Plus, they can minimize the risk of skin issues that can otherwise hamper their facial appearance and increase the risk of serious health problems.
In terms of COVID-19 and the skin, it is crucial to understand the risks associated with the coronavirus. For people who encounter skin issues, seeking medical support provides a great first step to evaluate and address these problems.
Dr. Azizzadeh and Dr. Fitzgerald take an extended look at COVID-19 and its impact on the skin in episode six of the Smile podcast. To find out what they have to say about the coronavirus’ impact on the skin, listen to the podcast now.