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MidValley Dermatology
4836 Van Nuys Blvd
Sherman Oaks, California 91403
Tel: 818 907 7546
Fax: 818 907 6381
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Communicate promptly with your provider with any health related questions or concerns.

 
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Health Education Index

Allan Wirtzer, M.D. and the staff of Midvalley Dermatology have provided a health education resource for its patients and the Sherman Oaks, California community. We hope you find the skin care information here to be helpful.

  • Acne – Acne ("zits," "pimples") is a common skin condition affecting our teenage and adult patients. Dr. Wirtzer offers a review of acne skin care, acne myths, acne and diet, acne medications (retinoids, benzoyl peroxide), and other acne treatments. Learn more about acne from the AAD.
  • Aging Skin – Our skin changes as we age. There are now many new and innovative anti-aging treatments available that provide a more youthful appearance. Dr. Wirtzer provides reviews of several cosmetic procedures, including medications (tretinoin, Latisse), botulinum toxin (Botox), dermal fillers (Restylane, Juvederm), and laser and light treatments, such as Intense Pulsed Light (IPL). Learn more about Aging Skin from the AAD.
  • Atopic Dermatitis – Learn more about eczema from the AAD or visit the National Eczema Association for information regarding dermatitis management and support groups.
  • Laser Hair Removal – Lasers produce intense light that is absorbed by the pigment in hair called melanin.  The melanin absorbs the light and heats up. This heat damages the hair follicle without hurting the surrounding tissue. The damaged hair follicle stops producing hair or replaces thick adult hair with a fine, light-colored hair (vellus hair). 
  • Rosacea – Rosacea is a common but poorly understood disorder of the facial skin that causes redness and an acne-like rash. Allan Wirtzer, M.D. reviews the different types of rosacea and rosacea treatment options, including topical metronidazole, tips for keeping it under control, oral antibiotics (doxycycline), and laser and light treatments. Learn more about rosacea from the AAD, or visit the National Rosacea Society.
  • Scabies – Scabies is an infestation of the skin with the microscopic mite Sarcoptes scabei. Infestation is common, found worldwide, and affects people of all races and social classes. Scabies spreads rapidly under crowded conditions where there is frequent skin-to-skin contact between people, such as in hospitals, institutions, child-care facilities, and nursing homes.
  • Skin Cancer – 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer in the course of their lifetimes. Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common form of skin cancer. Basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma are the two major forms of "non-melanoma" skin cancer. The Library reviews skin cancer types and skin cancer treatment options, including medications (Aldara, 5-FU), excision, and Mohs Surgery. Learn more about skin cancer from the AAD, or visit the Skin Cancer Foundation for information regarding skin cancer prevention and support groups.

The Library includes patient handouts and links to trusted health resources, such as the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD).

You may refer to the educational content here to better understand and manage your health. Please keep in mind that the information here is of general interest and may not apply to your specific medical diagnosis and recommended treatment plan.

The health information provided here should not be used in place of a visit, call, consultation with or the advice of Allan Wirtzer, M.D. Communicate promptly with one of our medical staff with any health related questions or concerns.