Sunflower Dermatology and Day Spa

Skin Care News

Camp Discovery 2009

Camp Discovery is for young people ages 10-16 with a serious skin condition and offers a summer camping experience unlike any they've had before. Every year, the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) sponsors a week of fishing, boating, swimming, water skiing, arts and crafts, and just plain fun.

Under the expert care of dermatologists and nurses, Camp Discovery offers campers the opportunity to spend a week among other young people who have similar skin conditions. Many of the counselors have serious skin conditions as well, and can provide support and advice to campers.

There is no fee for camp.  Full scholarships including transportation, are provided by the  generous donations of dermatologists, and other organizations. Please consider supporting  Camp Discovery.

New Survey Shows Impact Of Rosacea Leaves Sufferers More Than Just 'Red Faced'

A new survey of 500 rosacea sufferers released by the National Rosacea Society (NRS) revealed that the impact of rosacea goes far deeper than physical effects: it impacts the emotional health of sufferers. 42% of respondents with rosacea felt sad or depressed about the appearance of their skin, and more than 55% said rosacea was one of their top three physical concerns as they age, second only to weight gain (in a list that included wrinkles, high cholesterol and thinning hair). Rosacea patients also take steps to hide their condition.

"April is Rosacea Awareness Month, so our goal is to raise awareness of the condition and encourage those who may have rosacea to see a dermatologist for a diagnosis and appropriate therapy."said Samuel Huff, executive director of the National Rosacea Society.

The survey results also emphasizes the need for education among people with and without the condition. In the general population without rosacea, more than 25% of respondents did not know what rosacea was, despite its prevalence, and only 14% were familiar or very familiar with its symptoms. Read details of the rosacea survey.

Psoriasis Drug Raptiva Withdrawn from Market

Raptiva (efalizumab), a biologic medication previously approved from the treatment of chronic plaque psoriasis, is being withdrawn from the market due to serious but rare side effects. The National Psoriasis Foundation recommends patients currently using Raptiva (efalizumab) to immediately contact their dermatologist and find an alternative treatment option. Patients should not stop using Raptiva without first speaking with their physician—stopping abruptly could lead to a severe psoriasis flare. Read the psoriasis statement.

Simponi (golimumab) Receives FDA Approval for Treatment of Psoriatic Arthritis.

The FDA has approved Simponi (golimumab) for the treatment of moderately to severely active psoriatic arthritis. Simponi is an anti-tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha therapy that patients can self-administer once a month. Read more about Simponi.